The sun has found me...

After suffering through 2 weeks of crap weather, the sun has finally found me. I arriveD in Perth, located on the western coast of Oz, on the 4th of July and stayed for 4-nights. Its a striking city, set on a large hill overlooking Swan river. It has everything Lizy likes in a city, loads of people traffic, terrific selection of restaurants, entertainment and of course, cafes. PLUS its weather is always warmer and sunnier than Adelaide or Melbourne.
My accomodations here would be my first hostel experience in well......ages. I was doubtful I'd really like it, because I knew I'd have to walk a distance to the toilet, but didnt want to be isolated in a hotel room and I couldn't well afford hotels for 6 weeks worth of travel. The Witch's Hat hostel had all the charachter, amentities I expected, in addition to having an attractive, blue-eyed Aussie manager -). The only set back was that there was NO heat - anywhere (except the shower of course). I had my own room (minus toilet) and at 55 degrees I was certain I wouldn't last long. Surprisingly, I ended up, growing a 2nd skin and getting used to the coldness - who would have thunk? I guess in a way I'm forced to. Many people don't have central heat here, the shops all leave their doors open and people just tolerate it, w/o the winter works (gloves, hat, muffs).
My days here were spent discovering the nooks and crannies of the big city and just kicking back. It seems like everyone here is either new immigrant or 1st generation. I hear very few American accents around me. I would love to introduce my clients to this city, but the extra 5-hr flt from the popular east coast isn't attractive to most.
One the weekend, I had to leave 1/2 of my luggage and ready for my 'true adventure'. 10-days of camping, under the stars, whilst traveling up the coast from Perth to Broome. I, along with several strangers, would break bread together, sleep in canvas tents and share a bus together. This would be my first coach/camping tour and as those that know me, know this is well beyond what I would consider my 'confort zone'. Would my attitude and self survive the challenge??? Stay tuned to find out....