Well, back, and thoroughly enjoyed myself, esp meeting up with so many distant "relatives" who we have traced through family history research.

Here's ITK's guide to Down Under -

OZ - nice country, nice people, lots of sheep, good wine, bland food

NZ - even nicer country, nice people, even more sheep, good wine, better food

Funnily enough ITK, when I was last down under (1989) I was amazed by the quality of restaurants in Sydney - some of the best food I'd ever had.

The fish was good - but I'm not a "fishy" person really.

I am surprised you found the food 'bland'. I agree with JK. Without a doubt the best restaurants (at the prices) in the world with plenty of cheap and cheerful outlets.

No doubt due to the huge influx of European and Asian immigrants who have drowned out the British stodge.

But sheep ?. Where did you see them ?. Everyone lives in the city and most have only ever seen a sheep or kangaroo in a zoo.

New Zealand similar for food on a far smaller scale. Weird country with the most sensational country-side (not really done justice in Hobbitt films but they help) but very socialist which makes Red Hedda happy.

The downside of Down-Under by an ITK insider/OZ-Brit.

johnpilger.com/articles/welcome-to-the-w...-s-first-murdochracy


Meanwhile, Red Hedda Simply - ROCKS !