Week 2: Adelaide, Australia – Wipe Out

AustraliaExchange_18Feb2011After getting to know Adelaide in week one, it was time to experience the true Aussie life. With school getting more fun each day, every “tomorrow” has been one to look forward to. As classmates become friends and laughs become memories, I realize how precious my time here is in Australia.

The true highlights of my time here are the weekends, because it is when I get to encounter different aspects of Aussie life. My family took me on Friday night to watch the NAB Cup, which was a round robin between three of Australia’s footy clubs (Australian Rules Football). After some time at the beach Saturday morning, we were off to Victor Harbor for the night. I got to see some Australian countryside, which was absolutely beautiful. But, the highlight of the weekend was Sunday morning, when we went to Middleton Beach for surfing lessons. We got a quick demonstration and then hit the waves. While my quite talented Aussie family tore up the waves – well they managed to get up several times – I paddled and skidded and flopped around, until I was finally able to stand up! It might only have been for a few seconds, but it was so exhilarating! After the surf, we headed to a wildlife park, where we fed kangaroos and cuddled with a koala. They were all so cute and loving, especially the little joeys in their mother’s pouches. I couldn’t wipe the smile from my face; I had the best day imaginable!

Another great week is ahead, with plans for a different trip to the countryside this coming weekend. Nothing but excitement and joy is in store here in Adelaide!–Sarah Salzman ’13

Week 1: Adelaide, Australia – Leaving on a Jet Plane

Salzman_Wk1_Aussie2011blogThis past week has been filled with new adventures, experiences and people. When I first landed it was about 43oC degrees Celsius here in Adelaide, Australia, which was quite a shock coming from -10oC in Montreal. After making quick adjustments to the weather and time zone, it was time to kick back and take in the Aussie air.

After heading to the beach on night one, we watched the beautiful sunset over the water. Day 2 was the last day of summer vacation for my Australian friends, so we headed to the pool for a few hours. The next three days were school days and I got to meet and make friends with several of my classmates for the next few weeks. Friday night we were off into the city action of Adelaide, heading to the market place to get a taste of the city. Saturday evening my host family and some Aussie friends took me to my first cricket match, the Grand Final of the Australian 20/20 Big Bash, which the South Australian Redbacks won (yay!).

Time at home has been spent playing footy—the Australian version of football,—getting to know the Aussie way of life, hitting a few tennis balls and discussing our plans for the coming weeks. I can’t wait to see what comes next, as each day is a new and exciting experience. Cheers! –Sarah Salzman ’13