A few days ago, I posted an excerpt from Bill Bryson's book, 'In a Sunburned Country', you know, the guy who slept 'large'. I have just finished the book and I must say that it was a most enjoyable read. It is a collection of notes and experiences of his travels in Australia. It is packed with history and very interesting true stories of the discovery and development of this nation/continent. If that sounds dry, it is not. Bill travelled through Australia on several occasions and his own adventures, which are for the most part hilarious, are always introduced with the history of the place he is about to visit. This is how everyone should travel as it would make it so much more interesting. Because Bill has done all the research, one gets the feeling that they have travelled with him, and learned almost all there is to know about that great land.
It left me with a bit of a conflict though. As beautiful, diverse, and interesting as Australia is, a part of me does not want to go because there is so much flora and fauna there that just wants to kill you. Seriously! It is a constant theme throughout the book, and is quite fascinating.
If you are planning a trip to Australia, this is a must read. If you plan to never go there, this is a must read.
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