When I got to Australia, I realized I didn't have a valid driving license (I thought I could just buy one, as simple as that!).  I had to first take a theoretical test in order to get a learner's license (L) , and then a provisional license (P) for one year before finally getting an unrestricted license.  The test wasn't too hard, and I got my L in one go, although I had to take my P twice.  Before taking my P, I had to get some practice with a friend of mine and also with an instructor (you are not allowed to drive by yourself with an L).  This is good as you get to know what the rules of the road are like.  There are a lot of roundabouts in Australia.  When you turn left you have to keep an eye on the right in case someone is coming as they have priority.  Be careful when turning right as you have to go around the roundabout from your left, instead of turning immediately right (as often happens in Indonesia!!).  Another thing to remember is that there are no police at the side of the road, but speed cameras.  Don't go when the lights are red as you will get a fine.  Fines range from A$ 200 - 2,000, losing your license or even ending up in jail.  Don't try offering a bribe as you will get into even more trouble.  One more thing, avoid using your horn unless someone is about to hit you.  Using your horn is seen as scolding someone.

On a recent trip to Western Australia, my companion and I decided to visit The Pinnacles (157 km north of Perth or a 3-hour drive from Perth).  We were warned to be very careful when driving because there are many roadtrains.  A roadtrain is really a long truck made up of usually 3 containers which can be up to 30 meters long so it's difficult to overtake.  They are the kings of the road and you'd better get out of the way because they ain't stopping for you.  We overtook a couple of them and it was really scary with spray and stones flying out from the wheels.  After a couple of hours of driving I saw a sign saying "Roadtrains 2 kms".  Without thinking much I burst out, "2 kms-that's a really long one.  We'll never be able to overtake it".  My companion burst out that the sign means the roadtrain drivers can stop for a break 2 kms further up the road.  I guess it was an easy mistake to make because Australians always shorten their sentences. 

In Indonesia shopping malls are usually open 9 am to 10 pm, so on our first weekend in Newcastle, Australia, my sister and I went out to ‘explore' the mall.  To my surprise, when we arrived we found a closed door with a notice saying trading hours on Saturday are only until 1 pm and on Sunday they are closed!!! 

That's right.  Shops in Australia are closed on Sunday as this is a family day.  Australians generally prefer to go to the beach on Sunday to shopping!

Here is some information about travelling by bus in Australia;

• Passengers need a ticket which they should buy first at the bus station or from a ticket machine or from a news agent.
• The public transport system is state-owned and is very punctual and efficient (not like Indonesia!)
• Passengers should wait for the bus at a bus-stop or bus station.  You can't just stop a bus anywhere.  You also have to queue before getting on a bus.
• Passengers should get on at the front, next to the driver, and off at the back.
• Make sure you don't use seats reserved for disabled or elderly people.
• Students can get discounts, except during peak times and on certain days.
• Most passengers read during the journey and rarely talk, but students and young people are noisy and sometimes even kiss each other in front of you!