In praise of koalas and kangaroosMay 26, 2017

If you know Australia well enough, then here's a question for you. What tourists love most about Oz? The Harbour will be the first thing that comes to your mind, if you think how Vivid Sydney would turn the Opera House into a (visual) spectacle. Bondi will be the next thing that comes to mind, if not the striking coastlines in the northeast (or the southern parts). In this regard, the Twelve Apostles will put a frown on your face. (You haven't had a perfect selfie, with this natural wonder as background.) The list is incomplete without the Uluru. You want to add a few more items in the list, but you want to know the answer right away.

Foreign tourists like to see the places of interest, which are mentioned in the above. But not one of those destinations will land on first place. Not even second. They want to cuddle the koala, if not get close with a kangaroo. You may find it hard to believe unless you're aware of the promotional tour of tennis players during the summer. (If you don't have a clue, then imagine Roger Federer smiling for the cameras. He would be holding an adorable koala bear.) These mammals are not only endemic in Oz, but they also represent what is unique about the homeland. Consider yourself lucky that you can take a selfie with these animals. Imagine the wild animals in the African wilderness, if not the rare flora and fauna in the Amazon region. They are neither cute nor harmless as the koala (or kangaroo). You're lucky to get near these animals (and come out alive).

There are other reasons. Outsiders may put greater value on living things, which some of us take for granted. (It's OK if you're guilty about it. You're never too late to make a change.) They may find better beaches. (Bali must be on the bucket list.) There are iconic structures out there. (Big Ben is still waiting for you.) Travelling is a subjective experience, so agree to disagree on a number of topics. (Accommodation won't be one of those things, though.) But let's get back to our living icons.

Many endemic species are on the brink of extinction, but the koalas and kangaroos won't be part of that endangered list. We must be grateful for it, but hold your breath. Urbanisation threatens to destroy their natural habitat. Not that Australia falls short on preservation, but they deserve to live in a natural setting. And it turns out that this can be multi-million dollar industry.

What can you do about it? Visit your nearest zoo. Arrange a trip to the natural park (with your family or mates). Make sure that your next Facebook profile photo will include a koala (or kangaroo). Otherwise, take tens of (Instagram) pictures. The koala (or kangaroo) not only puts Australia on the top of many lists, but it also fosters goodwill as well. Tennis Australia would know.

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