Summer travel essentials
The weekend sun rose bright and early, but Richard was already up, energised by the prospect of a much-anticipated week in Fiji with his mates. Only a few days until the new year and the start of his trip. As a 50-something business executive, his life was a relentless rhythm of meetings, deadlines, and obligations. But this time, he was hitting pause and heading off for a rare boys-only getaway – a week of golf, laughs, and lounging by the beach. The plan was set: his friends, flying in from all corners of the world, would meet him there.
All that stood between Richard and island paradise was one thing but it was something that he absolutely hated doing – shopping.
Breakfast with his family was bittersweet. His wife Sarah, while supportive of his trip, gave him a knowing smirk over her coffee. “You’re hopeless, you know. Are you even packed yet?” she teased. “Not exactly,” Richard admitted, sheepishly, “but I’ve got a foolproof plan: one trip to the Albany Mega Centre, and I’ll be sorted.” With its array of stores, Richard counted on finding everything he needed for the ultimate tropical 'buddies' escape all within walking distance.
Golf gear galore. Richard’s first priority was golf equipment. After all, this trip wasn’t just about relaxation, it was about showing his buddies that his swing had only improved with age. He sauntered into Golf Warehouse and was greeted by a dazzling array of clubs, balls, and accessories. “I’m looking for something that says, ‘I play like Ryan Fox,’” Richard joked with the sales assistant. An hour later, he emerged with a sleek new set of golf balls, a glove, a stylish PGA Tour golf shirt, and a visor that he was certain made him look like a pro. Mission one accomplished.
Beach and poolside essentials. The tropical sun was no joke, and Richard knew he needed the works to survive the week in style. At Macpac, he stocked up on reef shoes, a water bottle, sunscreen, and a straw hat that gave off major 'resort chic' vibes. The brightly coloured board shorts he found were a bonus – even if his kids were likely to make fun of him.
Wardrobe refresh. Richard knew his attire needed to tell his buddies that he was doing well in his career, so he swung by North Beach for a wardrobe overhaul. Linen shirts? Check. Casual shorts? Check. A selection of beach-inspired t-shirts. A lightweight jacket for breezy evenings? Check. A Hawaiian shirt? Double check. He even splurged on a pair of stylish sunglasses that Sarah will no doubt say, “looks like he’s an old man trying to look like a much younger guy.”
Last-minute tech must-haves. Once last stop as Richard popped into Noel Leeming for a phone and iPad charger, and a set of those cool wireless earbuds that the younger ones at his work wear all day to avoid having to interact with their colleagues. After all, a holiday wasn’t complete without his favourite 80’s playlist. Wham’s Club Tropicana video popped into his head and suddenly he was even more excited about the trip.
A coffee break. Exhausted but satisfied, Richard ended his spree with a flat white from No.11 Café Eatery. He scrolled through his receipts and admired the mountain of bags in the passenger seat of his car. For a moment, he felt a pang of guilt about the indulgence. But then he remembered: this trip was about reconnecting with old friends and recharging his batteries. Besides, he’d tackled his shopping list with the precision of a business deal. Ruthlessly efficient. His boss would be impressed!
By the time he got home, Sarah was already laughing at his haul. “Did you buy the entire Mega Centre?” she teased. “Not the whole thing. Just the essentials,” Richard replied with a grin. The kids poked through the bags, giving their verdicts on his selections. “Cool shades, Dad!” his daughter declared with a hint of sarcasm. His son, however, had eyes only for the golf visor, “Can I have this when you’re back?”
On New Year’s Day, as Richard boarded the plane with a suitcase brimming with carefully chosen treasures, he felt a wave of gratitude. Life was good. He had his family’s support, a solid group of friends, and the perfect getaway ahead. And thanks to the Albany Mega Centre, he was heading to Fiji ready for anything – from a hole-in-one to a lazy afternoon rocking the 80s by the pool.