kyburg | So So

I'm making this trip to Australia this fall.

So I'm checking links.

We're going to need a visa, I discover. And like a good kid, I check the US State Dept's website for any travel warnings, and for information on the country I'm visiting. They have some links recommended, so I check them out.

Look what a 'friend' of the United States has to say about the place.

Some highlights:

"Australians should only carry sufficient cash for their daily needs, secure their valuables against theft and avoid displays of wealth at all times. Photocopies of valuables such as passport, tickets, driving licence and travellers' cheques should be kept separately from the originals."

Yeah, we hate the rich. We target them for all kinds of evil.

"Travel and medical insurance is strongly recommended for all overseas travel. Medical costs in the United States are extremely high. Visiting a doctor in the United States for even simple complaints could cost several hundred dollars for the doctor's appointment, pathology tests and medication."

Yeah, that's what happens when you outsource paying for health care to for-profit insurance companies, instead of paying taxes into programs that assist in out of pocket expense. And of course, just paying for things outright. And making sure everyone else does, too.

I also love the notation about the United States being subject to tsunami. Uh, when did that happen? We actually discussed that possibility in CERT class - and decided the threat was only for about four blocks along the coast here in Manhattan Beach. Beat feet for a quarter to half a mile, with plenty of warning. But nobody could recall anytime when it actually happened.

Yeah, greatest country on Earth. Keep saying that George.

I just keep remembering the 150 reasons one hates gringos, grin and bear it.

And quietly, laugh myself senseless.