If you give me a map and ask where "the comfort zone" lies geographically, I would point at the Gold Coast: perfect temperature, blue sky, the ocean at the door step, excellent food. Life is easy and people are very friendly. I was teaching on Sunday a preparation lecture for an upcoming China Field Trip at Bond University, which is headed by Keith Duncan. Thereafter we had an excellent seafood dinner with view on the surprising skyline of Surfer's Paradise. While teaching Australian students about China, I actually learn a lot about Australia. There are a few more guest lectures and chats with the faculty colleagues coming this week. And then we already pack up and travel North. Time flies.
Visiting Bond University (Gold Coast)
Arrived at Australia's Gold Coast - not for holidays, but as a guest lecturer at the Business School of Bond University. It seems mind boggling to pass by places like Surfer's Paradise on the bus to head for an academic institution. But then really it appears: a small but very fine University under a stunning blue sky. The first thing I noticed was that the library is on weekdays open until 1 am. For those of you who stereotype Bond with surfing and barbecue: does 1 am in the library sound like vacation?
I had a very nice welcome by faculty and students on campus yesterday and gave my first guest lecture in the class of Lars Isaksson. Today I spent with preparing more and meeting students. Excellent environment and excellent people.
