Melbourne has actually won worlds most livable city twice.. I think it's the only city to have done that http://www.theage.com.au/articles/2004/02/06/1075854028808.html
Some inspiration for some of you looking for real estate prices around the world: http://www.luxuryrealestate.com I find that NZ and AU are a _LOT_ cheaper than FL or CA in the US. Dirt cheap almost in comparison, even with the weak USD. Shows just how much the US real estate prices have blown out of proportion compared to the rest of the world.
Yakuza are very organised and not visible in society.. but the recent trend of young Japanese crims is a different matter. Even when I was there the kids were a foot taller than their parents because of the inclusion of beef in the diet with McDonalds KFC etc.. but not all western influence is a good thing, a woman could walk home at 1 in the morning by herself back then.. not anymore
Mate can you be a little less flag waving Australia is great I live here to but it ISNT the only place. Dont forget we have our probs too including virulent racism, a bogan culture high, skin cancer rates a bigoted PRIME Minister. crap time for tading the US markets.
I second Perth/ Margaret River area of West Oz. It has the wine country like Cal, deserted beaches for thousands, yes thousands, of miles, and Perth is about the perfect size (approx 1 million). The sailing, windsurfing, kiteboarding culture there is really cool too. Problem is, unless you are an Aussie, ya need two homes. After 6 months ya get the boot.
You think just because they are behind the scenes its alright they still prey on the more vulnerable people in society not to mention the rubbish tattos they have.
Err no thats not what i said, I was explaining why someone might not think Japan has any crime.. jeez your a defensive little prick Bogan.. did you live there for 2 years?