Aussie English AE 1368 - The Goss: What Are Some Australian Norms?
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Aug 10, 2025 In this engaging discussion, Ian Smissen, father of guest Pete Smissen, shares unique insights into Australian life. They explore the quirks of Australian weather, contrasting its mild conditions with harsh winters elsewhere. Sleep patterns influenced by long summer days are humorously examined, alongside the casual nature of social interactions, including footwear norms and friendly greetings. Through anecdotes, they highlight the informal, egalitarian spirit prevalent in Australia, making connections effortless and laid-back.
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Why Australian Winters Are Milder
- Australia’s milder winters result from its lower latitude and the Southern Ocean buffering Antarctic cold air.
- Cold air crossing thousands of kilometres of ocean warms before reaching populated Australian regions.
Cold Water And Snow Trip Mishaps
- Pete recalls visiting British Columbia and refusing to enter five-degree water while others swam without wetsuits.
- He also describes his wife nearly getting hypothermia during a day trip to Perisher despite mild temperatures.
Daylight Extremes Change Behavior
- Regions above the Arctic Circle have extreme daylight shifts with months of darkness or near-constant daylight.
- These daylight patterns force social adaptations like midnight golf or segmented sleep and naps.