- The “Land Down Under” certainly has some unique qualities…
Australia is known around the globe for many of its superlatives. For example, it’s the only country that covers an entire continent or the only place on earth where you can find a Tasmanian devil. However, there’s more to the Land Down Under than meets the eye, and some of these things are simply odd, to say the least. Join us as we explore the unique aspects that make Australia a peculiar place on Earth. While some of these things may already be common knowledge, certain facts will surely blow your mind!
The Seasons and The Weather
The first odd thing about Australia is related to the seasons. If you’re reading this from the US or Europe, you enjoy summer between June and August. Well, this logic does not work for this exciting nation. Australians have winter from June to August and summer from December to February. To make matters even worse, the climate can greatly differ from one corner of the country to another. For example, when Aussies in the South experience summer, the ones in the North deal with a wet season.
To get the best of both worlds, you’d have to be in Brisbane, which gets a more balanced, tropical climate. On the other hand, Melbourne can easily offer “four seasons in a day”. And if you think you’ve heard it all, in some areas of the country, there’s so much snowfall that you can actually go skiing. This one goes out to all those who thought Australia was all about sunshine and warm weather all year.
Beware of their Slang
The next entry in our list of peculiar stuff about Australia focuses on language and, more specifically, slang words. Aussie slang can be particularly confusing for English speakers from the US and the UK as it can cause some really embarrassing situations. The first example that comes to mind is “thongs”. While Australians think of a plain pair of flip-flops, we all know that’s a totally different clothing category for the rest of the world. Just imagine the entertainment when you go to a pool party in Australia, and the host tells you to bring your thongs.
Likewise, we advise you not to be afraid if a local invites you to play some pokies. There’s no reason to believe it has anything to do with poking your eyes or any other body part, for that matter. That’s simply the slang for slots, and you can find some at Australian online casinos allowed to operate in the country. Finally. while in this country, you’d better avoid using the term “root” to show your support for something. For Aussies, “root” is slang for having sexual intercourse. So, if you’re watching sports and you’re tempted to say you’ll be in front of the TV rooting, get ready for laughter and shock.
Vegemite
One can’t possibly claim they know everything about Australia and its quirks without bringing up Vegemite. This brown spread is very close to being a national symbol for the Land Down Under. Often eaten on toast for breakfast, Vegemite is also a popular snack among Aussies. The wonder spread is made from yeast extract and has a bitter, salty taste that could prove challenging for people outside the country. Vegemite was invented in 1923 in Melbourne as a local alternative to the British “Marmite”. However, whoever tried both spreads will tell you that Vegemite is very different from its British counterpart.
Unique Animals
You may be familiar with the phrase that “Every animal in Australia tries to kill you”. Even if that’s not entirely true, we found one that follows this rule and is only found here. You guessed it, it’s the Tasmanian Devil. These creatures are the largest carnivorous marsupial worldwide and have a reputation for being overly aggressive. Also, the Tasmanian Devil is living proof that size really does not matter. It has the strongest bites of any mammal while only reaching 30 inches in length.
While this mammal could once be found all across the country, Tasmanian Devils have been restricted only to Tasmania. You can find the creatures throughout the island state but more likely on the coast and in forests. In addition to the Tasmanian Devil, Australia is home to numerous unique species, ranging from the misunderstood Emu to the timid Koala Bear.
The “Shoey”
If you’ve followed Formula 1 this decade, especially Daniel Ricciardo, this one may not come as such a surprise. However, those of you that have no idea whatsoever are in for a potentially gross experience. The Shoey is an Australian drinking tradition that involves drinking beer or another beverage from a shoe. To properly perform this act, one must take off the shoe they are wearing, pour the drink inside it, and go at it. Using a shoe that hasn’t been worn is considered cheating, and you’ll not get any credit for it.
Final Thoughts
Australia is a country full of surprises and oddities that make it a unique and fascinating place. From its unconventional seasons to its peculiar slang, there are plenty of things that can catch visitors off guard. Vegemite, the Tasmanian Devil, and the Shoey are just a few of the things that make Australia so special. Despite the unusual aspects of the country, Australians are known for their friendly and welcoming nature, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an adventure.
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