In the early 1950s, traveling by airplane from Australia to England was extremely expensive, comparable to purchasing a three-bedroom house in major Australian cities like Melbourne or Sydney. This illustrates the high cost of air travel during that era and how it was a significant financial commitment for most people.

Bill Bryson, in his book "In a Sunburned Country," highlights this contrast to emphasize how travel has become more accessible over the years. The enormous difference in ticket prices reflects societal changes and the evolution of the aviation industry, making global travel more attainable for everyday people.