Winter Exodus

June 01, 2018 by Carlitos de Jeffers in Cultural Differences, The Foreigner

Now that Winter has wrapped its moderately cold fist around our necks, the question most backpackers have is do they stick or twist? In other words, do they stay in Bondi and see the winter out like a trooper, or should they head north to warmer climes, like a Janus-faced friend who disappears when times are tough.

Visa Mechanics

April 27, 2018 by Carlitos de Jeffers in Immigration, Hostel Environment

Unbeknownst to me, it’s apparent the Australian visa system has implemented the Rooney Rule and is lowering the bar for non-Anglo applicants. How else to explain why Rafinho has had it so easy since entering the country; that his route to permanent residency is practically served to him on a plate. All while others - who have been in the country for years, struggling away - are told time and again that A-Level qualifications in, say, Art & Design, are insufficient to apply for a Skilled Visa.

Kombi-ah, my lord

February 08, 2018 by Carlitos de Jeffers in Cultural Differences, The Foreigner

I immediately drew attention to her intolerance by highlighting the hypocrisy of her views. If she was at a local fair and a kindly fireman invited her son to erect his ladder or unfurl his hose, I’m sure she wouldn’t only let him, but encourage him too.