Thank you very much again for following my blog. I try to blog at least once a week. I have been doing well, but without a doubt, I could be doing better.
Right now we are in Easter holidays break. The past few weeks have been pretty hectic with papers and tests. I had three papers due on Thursday! I am definitely looking forward to this time off. Going into my study abroad program, I thought academics would be more chill and relaxed. That is what a lot of people told me. This is definitely not the case. The next academic week will be week number nine. Before I know it, final examinations will be right around the corner, being in middle of June.
For my Easter holiday, I will be hanging with my host family for a portion, working a few shifts at the Australian souvenir shop, and going on a weekend wine tour down at Margaret River. Margaret River is about a four hour bus ride south of Perth. From what I heard and researched, Margaret River is quite a beautiful place known for its big waves and many vineyards and breweries. I will be traveling with two other friends. We will go on a tour through a company. We will tour four vineyards and one brewery. Should be good fun. Here is the link to our tour if you want to take a look at it:
http://www.bushtuckertours.com/bwinerytour.html
We will be staying two nights at a hostel in Margaret River. Here is another link to our place if you want to take a look:
http://www.margaretriverbackpackers.com.au/backpackers/index.htm
I am not going to lie. Although I have had great fun here in Australia, I do miss home at times. Being in Australia for over two months now, I have noticed we have been living in a routine. To some extent, the initial gleam and glamour of Australia has began to wear off, if you know what I mean.
Last night after a long week of papers, we decided to go out to a bar. We had a few drinks and it was an okay time. After a while, going out to bars and drinking can get old. I usually go out once or twice a week. Without a doubt, other people do go out more than me. In a sense, last night I had a brief realization that there is plenty more to do. Also, I have really noticed some people can get mean when they drink. Very, very unfortunate.
In my opinion, I have really tried to immerse myself in the Australian culture and lifestyle as much as I can. Right now I have one host family that takes me to plenty of places and treats me super well. I also have another family that has been looking after me. Great people. I have also been working, meeting many great people. My classroom is a very great experience as well, being able to see how the Australian education system runs.
Talking with other people who went on the same study abroad program, many of them said they wished to integrate with the Australian culture more, considering we are about 35 Americans living in one building. I do not want to look back at this experience and wish the same thing. With that said, I have really tried to reach out. I am super happy I am too. I am experiencing many great things.
Unfortunately I can guarantee some others will hope they had associated with the Australian culture more. Quite frankly, the Australian people and culture is there. People just need to reach out for it. That simple. They may do as they please.
Me with Colin, the Aboriginal gentlemen we stayed with
Me attempting to play the didgeridoo
Beautiful sunset at Campeonth (?) Point
Brooke (Notre Dame in the states), Brad (St. John's University), Myself, Josh (St. John's University), Martha (Part of my host family. From the Notre Dame Australia)
I hope you enjoyed the blog. Take care everyone.
Tony
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