"I like the idea of the clip on koalas. Cheap, small and light to carry, instantly recognisable. Does it work?"

You better believe it Carlos, works a treat!!!

I hope the aussie contingent isn't hijacking this american flag thread, however I generally agree with the sentiments being expressed, particularly the fellow aussies, although I may not have been as forthright.

Back to the koalas - I travelled with my wife and few friends for about 5 months in eastern europe, spain, portugal and morrocco in 2003. We were backpacking, not motorcycle travel, a error I will redress in a year or so when I return. However, in our backpacks we all carried a bag of givaways including clip-on koalas and kangaroos, as well as pens, pencils, rulers and playing cards all with some australiana on them. We never used them to try to bribe anyone (its very obvious they are cheap) nor did we use them to overtly advertise our nationality (they were not openly displayed). We really took them just to give to kids, I just love the look on their faces when they aren't expecting a gift. But the biggest surprise was how well they worked as a thankyou to adults that have been really helpful and friendly - you know the ones, you meet them all the time, everywhere. Its those times when thankyou seems too little, but money just seems inappropriate - perfect solution, little aussie gift and really BIG thankyou! The smile it left on some adults was even more priceless than the kids! That is the reason I do it, but if it also leaves a good impression of my country and fellow coutrymen, then that's a bonus.

Get yourself to a wholesale type place that sells this stuff and you can buy in bulk, cost very little, weighs nothing but worth a fortune in memories. Just dont let on they are made in china!

Skillo

[This message has been edited by SKILLO (edited 18 January 2005).]