Fake Australian tourism ad mocks border closures, life in lockdown

The COVID pandemic has been tough on all industries, but none more so than Australian tourism.

Closed borders, mandatory hotel quarantines, and inflated flight prices have made entry into the country nearly impossible – unless, of course, you’re a top celebrity.

And while the harshness of these measures helped Australia keep COVID cases relatively under control (until about two months ago at least), they also provided rich fodder for Australian comedian Sam Tucker (known online under the name SAMTIME), which offered a bogus tourist advertisement.

Tucker’s new video, titled ‘Australian Tourism Ad in 2021’, pokes fun at any protocols that have been put in place.

With a handful of references to Shawshank’s Redemption and throwaway lines like “three square meals a day,” it’s pretty clear the comedian is comparing life in Australia to life in prison.

“After two weeks of good driving, you will be cleared out to explore the wonderful nature you will find – within three miles of your home,” Tucker said, winking at the hotel’s quarantine system. and current travel restrictions in New South Wales.

“Inmates, of course, should stay in their assigned cells. However, conjugal visits are allowed, as long as you register your sexual partner with the love police, ”he said, with a screenshot of a press article on the“ singles bubble ”. Sydney on screen.

There are other references to fines for violating restrictions, curfews, mask warrants and even the economy (“Australia’s economy is currently running on an Epson”).