Yes, one of the main reason is the grip. I felt at home straight away after holding it.  Others are better battery life, vertical grip (available), etc.  No so much on HD video as I own a dedicated one already.  Well, it's all depend on individual preferences. 

A55 has mirror, it just semi-transparent and dun have mechanism install on the mirror to flip it up.

It has a small tick for you to flip up the transparent mirror so u can clean the sensor xD

Hi mike! I'm currently studying in University of Adelaide in South Australia, why did you have the thought of selling off your dslr and bringing a nex? I brought all my gear there which includes 2 tripods... lol... Well, my advice is to bring the "right" lens at the right time if you only plan to bring one lens out per outing when you're overseas. I find myself not utilizing my 55-200mm enough so I'm going to give it back to my dad soon. Travel light if you plan to wander around taking photos. I usually only wander around with only my KM50 f1.7 attached to my camera as it is an all rounder, works well indoors & outdoors 

p.s. Bring a m'sian extension chord with a universal adapter. It does wonders! 

Haha! Cheers!

I prefer alpha over > nex anytime. And on the plus side you don't have to buy a dry box in Aus since the humidity is already really low.

Enjoy your trip!

trust me, it'll be much more fun than a 'trip'
in fact you'll enjoy it there so much n you might not wanna come back and choose to settle down there 

btw, u should try part-time as freelance photographer once u're in aussie, ask your friends be model, set up webpage with portfolio and promote!
the pay's not bad, people don't mind hiring young amateur freelancer who can provide them with good pictures

i have are friend who did that..from entry lvl upgrade till 5d mark II (not straight but progressively from entry->mid->high->FF) with the money he earned from photoshooting session
his website - http://www.kiumo.net/

If you like landscapes and architecture, then you would love Australia! =)

hello.... anyone have experienced taking birthday party shots?

is 28-85 wide enuf?

Guys, Sony f1.8 or Minolta f1.7 produce better bokeh?

Anybody got a problem with the A33/A55 electronic viewfinder?...tried an A33 at the shop n found the viewfinder a bit blur for those who wear specs...tried adjusting the viewfinder but still find the compensation not enough...asked the salesman who is also wearing specs n he too finds this blurred problem but the LCD shows a clear picture...... 

Tried the A560 at Sony booth at KPLF Midvalley...did not find this problem...