But has it? Has it really?

We know that Canberra has its critics, but here are some simple comparisons that prove, for a fact, that there's not much a tropical island paradise can offer to tempt our bureaucrats away from their shangri-la on the lake.

1. Tropical palm-fringed beaches.

OK, maybe the beaches over there are not bad, if you like that sort of thing.

But do they really think they can compare to our watery wonderland, Lake Burley Griffin. Sheer bliss on a day when the toxic algae blooms allow you to get in for an, admittedly bracing dip.

2. Friendly locals.

Yes, yes, Pacific islanders are famed the world over for their friendly welcomes and culture of hospitality.

But we've got this bloke. Not only will he put on a free demonstration of time-honoured Canberra culture and traditions, he'll even chuck in a few helpful pointers on how to negotiate the unique local traffic conditions. All for free.

3. The occasional coup.

It's true that they have the occasional, ahem, political upheaval over there. Firearms are not unheard of and yes that keeps things, well, interesting.

But Canberra is an acknowledged world leader on how to turf a leader. They're sending people here to study it. And we don't need the shooting irons either.

4. Traditional food and drink ceremonies.

In Fiji, you might get invited to share in the time-honoured tradition of the kava ceremony, sharing with locals hundreds of years of cultural heritage.

But, so what? If these Canberra boys invite you to share a few cold ones at their favourite watering-hole (and we're not saying names), you can look forward to an experience you'll never forget. No matter how hard you try.

5. Scary bloke in charge of the public service.

Yep, it's true that you don't talk back to the boss in the Fijian public service.

But hello! Have you seen the bloke we've had running the show these past couple of years?*

*Until his recent untimely removal (see item 3).