Sunday 21st January

A bleary-eyed foursome (Steve, me, Kaye and Greg) were up at 4.00am and on our way to the airport by 4.30am. Flew Jetstar to Launceston, Tasmania – a no frills airline but OK. Arrivals busy but we made our way merrily through the throng of holiday crowds – a little drama as we waited at the baggage reclaim – Greg was approached by the airport security hound and his handler … and was found to have two bananas about his person – it was a fair cop!! Hope that beagle enjoyed his bananas.

Smoothly picked up our hire car and set off to our first destination – Hobart. It was a fair old drive so after a couple of hours we stopped off in Campbell town for refreshments – coffee and pies (the Australians do make a good pie you know). Tasmania is absolutely stunning – you can never tire of the scenery – mountainous and green, long stretches of vineyards and olive groves … and this part of the journey along the East Coast was breathtaking. Between tired yawns and swerving the roadkill, we made our way along the bendy mountain roads – took another little stop at Coles Bay.

After much discussion we made the decision to pay the money to enter the National Park and take the walk up the mountain in order to view Wineglass Bay – a much recommended attraction. It was pretty hot as we made our way up the dusty climb – a pretty climb though with constant views of the bays, interesting geology and vegetation. About half way up, Kaye and I had stopped to catch our breath, when I heard “Oh my God, Deirdre” – it was India Goodlake. (We had planned to meet up with India – Warren’s daughter – the following evening – she has been living in Tasmania for two years now … but to meet her half way up a mountain was such a coincidence). So, after some big hugs and introductions to her two friends, we all made our way on up to the top with non-stop nattering. And, oh boy, the climb was worth it … spectacular view of Wineglass Bay – took your breath away in more ways than one!

Then it was goodbyes (for now) and we continued on our journey to our airbnb destination – we were staying on a farm in Kellevie, just short of Hobart. Our faithful GPS continued to talk us through each step of the way …. and why would you question that!!? Greg had taken over the driving by this time, and his 4 wheel driving skills came in handy as we found ourselves on a ‘offroad’ track …. that went on and on and got steeper and steeper, with huge drops at the side!! My nerves began to jangle but I was comforted in being informed that this was an adventure!! It would seem that the GPS had taken us on an ‘alternative’ route, but we eventually found our farmyard cottage, out in the middle of nowhere. We had chickens and a cockerel in the garden and the views over the fields and mountains were to die for. The house itself was ‘a little tired’ – reminiscent of our grandparents’ homes – from the dark furniture, musty smells, old family photos and clanging pipes when you turned the tap on … but exquisite location. As we were settling in, Mark the farmer came to say hello, bearing gifts of cherries from his orchard and some delicious cherry wine. He asked us if we minded if he brought the sheep into the garden in the morning …. well what could we say!?

Steve opted to stay and watch the one day cricket on TV while Kaye, Greg and I embarked on a ‘very steep’ walk to the top of the farm … we were well rewarded with the views. The sheep came too – the higher we walked, the higher they ran – all following each other.

We found ourselves a little off-track as Greg had taken us exploring, and so making our way down the hill we found ourselves amongst some grass that was longer than we would have liked it to be! And yes, guess what, I stumbled across my first snake!! After weeks and months of dreading this, it happened so quickly – it slithered, inches away from me, into the long grass and disappeared – I froze, then called out to Kaye and Greg … but it was gone. Luckily, it was a smaller variety of snake, a white-lipped snake (or whip snake) but the farmer informed us that they are venomous.

After this trauma, I hot-footed it back onto the path and was down that hill in pretty quick time.

We had dinner in, washed down with wine … naturally! Our first night in Tasmania. Enjoyed the amazing views and farm animals surrounding us – sheep, cows, horses, chickens … we even had a visit from a kookaburra.

And so we had an early night (after our early start) – that is except Steve who stayed up to watch the cricket whilst slowly tucking into the cherry wine. At midnight he woke me out of my deep sleep to come and see the stars – they were quite incredible I must admit … but very soon I was tucked back up into my oh so comfy bed and the Zs resumed.

Tomorrow we are heading back to city life …. Hobart x

I know it’s summer here but Melbourne is not renowned for the hotter temperatures that we’ve experienced this week – it’s been up to 42 degrees. Fortunately these few days are between trips – so it was sorting out after our return from Anglesea and preparing for our week in Tasmania, therefore we had no plans for long days outside in these cruel temperatures!! AND we’re at severe fire risk – are you all feeling sorry for us now!!? 😉

Steve and I did just about manage an hour on the beach at Hampton but I spent most of the time in the sea – you could feel the sand burning you through the beach mat … and it was impossible to walk on. When we were walking back to the car we saw two eejits running along the promenade – why!!!?

On one of the very hot days we had made plans to meet Alice B (Butler) in the city for lunch. Alice has been travelling since last summer and is currently based in Eildon, country Victoria. We decided to train it in so that we could have a beer or two. Luckily the trains are air conditioned so all was comfortable – they just have to run slower on these hot days however as they are affected by the extreme heats, sometimes apparently they have to stop them altogether. Alice, bless her, had to drive for an hour and a half and then take a hour’s train ride as well – we felt so honoured that she wanted to travel up to see us. So we met at Southern Cross and after big hellos and hugs we took a scorching walk along the river to The Boat Builders bar. We had a delicious lunch, a few beers and a great catch up. Alice has had some great adventures in South East Asia and is now living and working in Eildon … and she’s loving it. It was fabulous to listen to her stories and to share in her enthusiasm for Aussie life.

Apart from that, these few days have been spent washing, ironing, booking airbnbs, manicures, pedicures … you know how it is!! Steve continued running of course but for me, heat stopped play!!

We had a lovely evening out with Kaye, Greg, Shirley and Mark – went to a new Chinese restaurant in Highett and enjoyed one of their splendid banquets. Afterwards we went to yet another quirky bar where they had live music – it’s called the Naked Racer – it had the most incredible collection of motor bikes and other weird and wonderful items – a man cave with a bar attached! Men do love to collect, don’t they!!?

 

And I had to post up another sign spotted – hilarious!

Next stop – Tasmania xx

While Steve journeyed back into the city for the one-day cricket, Kaye, Greg and I decided on a much more leisurely afternoon altogether. On recommendation, we took a drive out to a local winery (well I say local, an hour’s drive each way is nothing to an Australian) – literally in the middle of nowhere, for an afternoon of wine-tasting and live music. There were only 4 other people there when we arrived so we began to have second thoughts … but we had come so far!! Greg persuaded us to give it a go so we started off with a bit of wine-tasting. It was a beautiful setting, beside a billabong (🎶 waltzing matilda) and stunning weather.

Within an hour the place was rocking with music and singing and dancing – ska Caribbean music … we had such a brilliant afternoon. And Kaye and Greg got to ‘rockabilly’ – they won a prize for their dancing but there was some mention of Greg’s ‘happy pants’ and ‘moustache style’ being a contributory factor.

We went on a road trip on the way home along the long dusty roads – we felt like Thelma and Louise + Greg came too!!  (We hadn’t killed anyone though I might add!!)

On the Monday weather was not so good so we headed out on a drive along the Great Ocean Road.  Did a bit of koala and kangaroo spotting – but hit a blank!!  Had a beautiful walk around Erskine falls – a spot of hill climbing and plenty of steps – reminiscent of the South West Coastal Path!

Visited the pretty town of Lorne on the way back and of dipped in for afternoon tea at the Bowling Club.  Home made fruit bread with gorgonzola – yum.  Steve and Greg browsed through the albums and we enjoyed listening to some music on an old record player.  We had the place to ourselves and Kaye and Greg even got to ‘rockabilly.’  It was like stepping back in time.

On Tuesday the sunshine reappeared so back to the beach we went – some good surf and a chance to top up the tan.  Love Anglesea beach.

Certainly had lots of great eating opportunities whilst in Anglesea – the whole range – from posh – to fish & chips from the paper, dinner, breakfast and lunch.

Sadly our lovely seaside holiday came to an end – we cleaned up the house, packed up the car and set off.  Kaye had a great idea for the journey home – we drove to Queenscliff and caught the ferry to Sorrento – the drove back to Melbourne from there – a fabulous end to a fabulous week.

We packed in so many fun things and fun times into our week in Anglesea – as well as all the things I’ve posted we played many board games too (dealt with a few disappointments, particularly in Triv), had some movie time, watched the Australian Open … never a dull moment.  So back to Melbourne for a few days before heading out on our next trip … to Tasmania.

Doesn’t quite rhyme I know but let’s not spoil a good line!

Today, the normal gang of between four and nine was reduced to the bare minimum….JUST ME when the opportunity came up of watching England play Australia in a one day international.

I’d purchased 2 tickets for the day/night game at the MCG over Christmas, since when enthusiasm for Australia’s national game has waned considerably, Deirdre decided fairly quickly that she wasn’t going (probably the sight of Steve Smith batting again). No worries though as our resident Aussie host Greg would surely jump at the chance of a day out … not so!

Very clever planning meant that we were actually staying away from the city when the game was being played, so getting back home after the game would not be possible, meaning a stay in the city overnight with the game finishing at 10pm, the last train is 7.30 😂

At this point I should mention that public transport in Australia is brilliant bearing in mind the size of the place! The return journey from Anglesea to MCG being of some two plus hours costing less than £10, whilst entry to the game cost £25. Try comparing this with a game at Lords where travel would probably cost in excess of £30 and the match ticket something above £75!!

So with just myself staying I booked an airbnb in central Melbourne, 345 Swanson Street to be more precise, and quite pleased to get an overnight for £50, reasonably priced. We’ve had some good experiences with airbnb over the last few months however you always arrive at the place with slight trepidation and not knowing what to expect, today was no different.

Swanson Street is a long road and Google maps got me close, hence a phone call to the host ‘Nick’ was necessary because I could not see anything like an apartment block or number 345 but no worries as I then received the following text messages:-

I took this picture just outside of 345 which I’m pretty sure is the Unversity Halls of Residence and my room key was not conclusive?

All ‘mod cons’ required for a ‘Barmy Army’ travelling supporter were provided, couldn’t find the Old Spice though (kids … ask your Dad).

<

It turns out though with the game finishing after 10pm and Melbourne trains in meltdown, an easy tram ride was all that was needed for my return to ‘Halls’. Very pleased that I had decided to stay in the city for the night.

<

And then there’s the cricket….

I’ve now been to ‘the G’ on four occasions:-

1. A day visitor tour behind the scenes which was very good, but no cricket.

2. The Boxing Day Test Match was a great experience but please refer to my previous comments about watching Steve Smith batting, which is very tedious and every time the stadium PA refers to him as ‘Your Captain Steve Smith’ yuk yuk!!!

3. December 28th I saw Alistair Cook score a double century which was absolutely stunning and a brilliant atmosphere.

4. This game ……..

<<<<
Finding my seat in the Barmy Army section, row C in the full sun of 30+ degrees which I managed for a couple of hours before moving back a few rows. The stewards and police at grounds here really don’t worry where you sit or stand, so much better than stadiums in the U.K.!

Australia batting first lost a couple of early wickets which brings Steve Smith to the crease but today we only had a brief glimpse of ‘your captain’ before his early departure! However the Aussie’s posted a good looking total of 304 from their 50 overs. Leaving England the honour should they beat this, of it being the highest ever run chase in a one day game at the MCG.

There then followed a batting master class from Joe Root with 80, although the star of the show with 180 was Jason Roy, a stunning performance against the best bowling attack in the world. Careful defence but also some quite staggering boundaries and I have to say one of the best performances I’ve ever seen!

So after seeing quite a lot of Pom bashing the last few weeks, it was a delight to see the tables turned for once and now look forward to the rest of the one day series, although these will be watched on the TV as we resume our travels next week to Tasmania and New Zealand.

Finally a few points about the majestic MCG, what a ground, what a place, what an atmosphere even with a 40000 attendance yesterday when the capacity is some 100,000. A shame more Aussie’s don’t take up the chance of watching international cricket in such a fine stadium!

As I said in the last blog, coming back to Melbourne felt like coming home … we can’t believe we’ve been with Kaye and Greg less than a month … it feels like we’ve emigrated – totally settled into the Australian way of life. So post Christmas and New Year we were full of good intentions to detox, up the exercise regime etc. We got straight back into the running, walking, personal training sessions (well one!) and healthy eating…. the old wine bottle still seems to creep out most evenings at 6pm however – can’t do everything at once!! We enjoyed a few relaxed days in Highett before the four of us hit the road for Anglesea – Victoria’s famous Great Ocean Road. Gary and Rita (friends of Kaye and Greg’s) kindly gave us the use of their holiday home in Anglesea for a week, a beautiful seaside retreat. So Wednesday morning, bright and bushy tailed, we loaded the car and set off to find our beachside home. In less than 2 hours we were there – such a beautiful house – we settled in quickly and set out to explore the local beach and area.

It was most definitely prosecco time for Kaye and I when we got back … and after we had polished off a bottle, we left our men to fire up the BBQ while we boldly went to explore the bush for wildlife. In true Attenborough style, I spotted the first kangaroo just 5 minutes around the corner – so many cockatoos too.

Had a great beach day on the Thursday – incredible weather, perfect waves for bodyboarding (without being too ferocious and rib-damaging) – a day of relaxation, picnic, reading, swimming …. bliss! And Greg made homemade pizzas for dinner – on the BBQ – far out!! Tucked in till we were bursting – they were magnificent. Before dinner we had taken a walk to the local shops and, lo and behold, found a kangaroo grazing literally behind our garden fence – we were half expecting him to be joining us for the BBQ on our return! Since found out that he is a regular visitor and is affectionately known as ‘George.’

After dinner we went out for a drive and spotted a mob of kangaroos on the local golf course, amazing creatures – could watch them for hours.

Love getting to see the wildlife here – lots of interesting bird life particularly … cockatoos, galahs, laurakeets, rosellas, wagtails, Australian magpies, kookaburras … all so interesting. Have done a few bush walks and marvelled at the birdsong … it’s made us laugh though realising how your interests change as you get older – being a ‘spotter’ would have seemed so naff when we were young!! And not that I want to tempt fate but, despite signage, no snake spotted as yet. Why do so many things look like snakes though!? – tree roots, fallen branches, twigs, even hoses!! I’m constantly jumping out of my skin.

Can’t believe I’ve been brave enough to walk through these bush areas (and in some wet and windy weathers too) – I’m not quite Steve Irwin yet but feel my bravery deserves some recognition!! Hoping to see some koalas or platypus … still searching ..

Steve is heading back to Melbourne for a one day international cricket event … he’ll be blogging on that shortly!!….

Sydney was magnificent and a cherished part of our trip … special too because of the people we shared the trip with.

On Wednesday (3rd) Kaye, Greg, Mark and Shirley returned to Melbourne … where we would be catching up again with them in a few days time.

Then on Saturday morning it was time to travel to the airport with Alice and Marc to say our goodbyes. Time had come for them to travel up to Cairns and the Great Barrier Reef … and then on to Bali and Singapore before heading home to UK. We’ve so loved sharing parts of this journey with them both, it has been really special … but they must have their own adventures … and so must we – still some tears though. 😂

We had booked into an airport hotel for the night as Tom was leaving that day too, but not till late – it gave us the opportunity to eek things out and spend one last day with him. It was a beautiful day so we headed out to Yarra Bay (where Steve had run the Parkrun that morning) … had lunch in the sailing club and a final swim. The first stretch of water we’d been to in Australia that didn’t have huge rolling waves – it did however have wind and currents …. and so many inflatables … ducks, flamingoes, peacocks, crocodiles, sharks, even slices of water melon … and we watched several of them get blown away out of reach – several dollars down the drain (or out to sea I should say)!

We then had time to kill before saying farewell to Tom … and that time extended as his flight was delayed – yay … we had him for a bit longer (we are the archetypal ‘helicopter parents’). Fortunately the hotel had a relaxing rooftop bar which overlooked the runway – really fascinating … and highlighted the fact that we were all flying off in different directions!! Embarrassingly we escorted Tom to check in (he is very tolerant) and so more hugs and tears later he was through to departure.

And we were on our own again … well for one night … in Sydney. On Sunday we flew back to Melbourne to our amazing buddies – Kaye and Greg … it felt like coming home. 😊

On Wednesday night, Steve and Tom made their way to the Barmy Army pre-test match drinks at the Cargo Bar in Darling Harbour. Alice and Marc were out on their own shopping and sightseeing trip. So I indulged in a ‘night in on my own’ – the first since we had left home in July!!!! And I loved it … didn’t even bother to cook – just ate snacks and watched TV – heaven – sounds crazy but you just miss these simple things.

Steve returned about midnight having had a fun night of Barmy Army drinking, singing and dancing – Tom returned some time later, having partied on with Tim Brooker, a fellow drinks rep from back home. We were amazed when Tom got up so willingly in the morning – the five of us set out for our day at the Sydney Cricket Ground. (I have to say, Tom certainly looked better than Tim looked the morning after)!

Unfortunately rain delayed the start of play … and so an early lunch was declared … this meant the drinking began. Some of us were more moderate than others!! England won the toss again (what a victory) and elected to bat. Although Steve considered this a mistake for England chances it did mean more interesting viewing – watching England bat as opposed to Steve Smith monopolising the day.

SCG is a beautiful ground, some beautiful old pavilions and some stunning backdrops of the city skyline.

Enjoyed the afternoon’s cricket … not as many runs as hoped … but the Barmy Army kept up their spirits.

And then, disaster of disasters, we lost two wickets in the last 5 minutes – Bairstow and Root … AND THEN … we lost Tom (Quelle Surprise)!!!

Tom had wandered off for a last minute cigarette saying he would meet us at gate 7. After a long wait we gave up – we moved on!! Tried to get into the first Barmy Army meet up at an Irish pub … it was heaving … found out afterwards that Liam Gallagher was performing across the road later hence the crowds and singing. We moved on to the Cargo Bar where we met up with Tom, ate and drank and home by 11.00pm for a much needed sleep (especially Tom) 😊❤️

That was our last Ashes Tour attendance … we’ve loved the experience and it’s especially been a big tick off the list for Steve … and he’s enjoyed sharing it with us all. Continued to watch the cricket over the following 4 days on TV – not a great end result – 4-0 to Australia … but there’s always another time!!

We spent many lovely days in Sydney – walking, beaching, sightseeing, even some shopping … but one of the best days we had was a trip out to the Blue Mountains, a recommended experience if in this magnificent city. There had been many planning discussions – Greg had gathered hundreds of brochures, Mark had discussed with their hotel reception, Steve had googled train routes, hop on/hop off bus routes etc. – Kaye, Shirley and I just sat back and awaited instruction!!

So we met at Central Station and caught the train to Katoomba – a pleasant, scenic ride. Alice and Marc had joined us too so we were a party of 8 – (Tom chose to do his own thing, continuing to discover the city areas, inspecting the bars). Katoomba is a beautiful little town with its colonial style properties – full of speciality shops and cafes, and the Art Deco styled Carrington Hotel, built in 1880, a unique heritage property. From here we selected to use the Trolley Tours hop on/hop off bus … and after some refreshment we set off to discover the 29 stops of this beautiful Blue Mountain area. We had already carried out our research and discovered that the ‘blue’ is a result of the moisture from the Eucalyptus trees (which famously keeps the koala bears in a drugged condition) creating a blue haze in this mountainous area.

The bus ride involved some steep climbs in a fairly old bus – seemed at times that we might have to get off and push! And of course that meant steep descents too, sometimes with heart-thumping drops at the side (just don’t look). Stopped occasionally for photo opportunities but kept the bulk of our time for the area known as ‘scenic world’ (or in my words, the land of transport terror – cable cars and a 52 degrees railway ride)!! Alice and Marc alighted at Gordon Falls and did the hour bushwalk to Leura cascades – they said it was stunning – came across a few creatures on the way!!

Scenic world starts with the Skyway ride over Jamieson Valley and Katoomba Falls. Bravely made my way on this great thing in the sky – there was no getting out of it – have to be honest, actually enjoyed it. It was incredible looking down on the ‘tiny’ people stood on the rock levels below, near the Falls, some precariously close to the edges – what is it with backpackers these days!?

From the other side we had an amazing view of the Three Sisters and the Jamieson Valley. (Aboriginal legend has it that three ‘nasty’ sisters were set in rock – so beware)!!

Our route from the skytrain led us through some retail opportunities which we managed to resist and into the queue for the ‘scenic railway. Well, what is scenic about tipping over the side of a mountain into a dark tunnel whilst screaming and cursing is yet to be explained to me!! As we made our way to the front of the queue and witnessed the carriages literally tip over the side of the mountain in roller coaster style, I was all for going back … but oh no, we were just ploughing on with it. When the train started with us on board, it was that impending doom stuff as we neared the edge … I just held onto everything I could and kept me eyes closed … Shirley and I screamed our hearts out … after the initial ‘tip over’ it levelled into a 52 degrees descent and we reached the bottom of the valley in no time!!!

At the bottom we embarked on an hour’s walk in the rainforest – stunningly beautiful – this was the ‘scenic’ I was looking for. A fair few steps and plenty of looking out for all things slithery but a fabulous experience.

Then we had to choose between a long arduous walk up (which Alice and Marc chose to do) or the ride up in the cableway. By now we were all brave (and couldn’t face the 190 steps!) so cableway it was. Very manageable … and scenic views (probably because I actually had my eyes open)!

Hopped back on the bus after this … and by this time the heavens had opened. Back in Katoomba we decided to drop into the Carrington Hotel for refreshment, while we waited for Alice and Marc. Some drinks and shared platters – just the job … and lapped up the history and splendour of this magnificent hotel.

By the time we left the hotel and met up with Alice and Marc it was a full blown hail storm.

So, some soggy passengers made it onto the return train to Central Station, Sydney. Still feeling a little damp on arrival we were pretty indecisive about our next move – should we go home and change? No, we headed straight for an Irish pub – Tom came to meet us there and we ate the most incredible beef and Guinness pies and enjoyed the crack!! Some delays with some of the meals and the pouring of Guinness but all ended well … a great end to a great day. 😊☘️

So New Year’s Eve is our Wedding Anniversary … always a funny day to celebrate as everyone and everything is so busy. We had both only remembered ourselves the day before as we lounged on Bondi Beach … and so made an agreement to skip the last minute shopping for Anniversary cards! But 23 years is not a bad milestone … 2 years till the Silver. I started the day with a trip to church (being a Sunday) – even got to sing some Christmas carols. I had forgotten my glasses though and so had to wear my prescription sunglasses to read the words – felt very self-conscious of the rockstar image I was portraying!!! We had a chilled day, Tom treated us to lunch and then we all started our New Year messages on social media. An early rota for showers was necessary as we had to leave the apartment at 5.00pm – they start celebrating early here!!

All 9 of us had tickets for a party at a Boutique Hotel in Watson’s Bay – this included dinner, free drinks from 6.00-9.00pm, music and dancing and full view of the world-famous firework display at Sydney Harbour Bridge. We ‘ubered’ to the venue and met up with Kaye, Greg, Mark and Shirley there. Once again we found ourselves amongst the Sydney glamour set – beautiful women (and men!) all dressed to the nines! We mingled in quite easily!! At 6.00pm the cocktails were declared ready and we joined ‘the posh set’ in racing to get stuck into the free drinks. Aperol Spritz, Pimms and Prosecco in plentiful supplies. From the offset I felt ancient as young person after young person offered me their stool to sit on (did I really look that wobbly at the start of the night)!? Of course they were very polite and glamorous young people and it was an honour to be amongst them. This was reinforced later in the evening when a lady from one other ‘elderly’ group took the time to come over to us and say “it’s nice to see some other oldies here!!”

The food was absolutely incredible – a shared seafood platter to start – everything from the sea you could imagine.

This was followed by lamb, pork and more seafood (trout and prawns) and then pavlova – it really was a first class meal, all served at the table (no queueing up for buffet -yay!!) And boy did we indulge!! And the wine and beer flowed too – there was certainly no scrimping – so by 9.00pm when the free drinks finished we were more than ready to party.

In line with the ‘target audience’ the music throughout the night was of the electronic funk kind (think I got that right)!! Tom, Alice and Marc sensibly escaped into the crowds after the meal to party 🎉 And us oldies had a go at strutting our stuff – once again the young people around us smiled patronisingly!! Full credit goes to Kaye and Greg who managed to perform their ‘rockabilly’ moves to the heavy drum and base beat!! We didn’t see much of Tom during the evening (who can blame him) but when we did meet up at midnight he had made a fair few friends. We watched the spectacular firework display together – it really was something (a bucket list item I would suggest). Partied on till 1.00am and then it was time to try and find transport home (that old joy on New Year’s Eve)! And the whole of Watson’s Bay was rammed with partygoers.

Luckily they were running free buses – we even managed to get Tom onto it. The downside was that it inched its way home due to traffic. So much so, Tom decided to get off half-way so that he could walk … he got home 6 hours later, fitting in a couple of house parties on the way!!!!

Happy New Year everyone. Hope 2018 brings peace, happiness and contentment ❤️

On 29th December we took a Qantas flight from Melbourne to Sydney … all good apart from the turbulence at different parts of the journey, but particularly on landing!! It was the ‘no hot drinks served for health and safety reasons’ stuff – so we arrived white-knuckled but happy and excited to be back in Sydney. We had arranged to meet up with Kaye, Greg, Mark and Shirley at the airport – they were flying Jetstar but were arriving at a similar time and staying in a similar area so we had pre-booked a large maxi-taxi to accommodate the nine passengers plus luggage. We arrived first and found our friendly driver, our Aussie friends however were almost an hour late … Tom kept the driver engaged in ‘happy banter’ while Steve went off in search … and unbelievably the driver remained absolutely cool – just couldn’t imagine that back home!!

We (the 5 poms!) arrived at our accommodation in Bondi Road, a huge tower block – luckily we were only on the first floor. Inside it was decorated to a very high spec – the shared areas left a little more to be desired, including the lift!! We were met by our host, Anna, a stunningly beautiful blonde Russian girl, with the shortest skirt and the highest heels I have ever seen! The tour included a trip up in a rickety lift to the 11th floor where there was a swimming pool – incredible views over the whole city – bit of a party atmosphere around the pool (not quite our scene). As with all accommodation, there were pluses and minuses – huge comfortable beds and kitchen drawers full of complimentary items such as teas, coffee, hot chocolates, biscuits, chocolate bars, crisps, sweets, cereals, spreads … on the minus side there were no wardrobes! – just a wooden ladder in each bedroom with a few wooden hangers! We were aware that there was only one bathroom but the website had indicated use of two extra toilets – well … they must have been up by the rooftop swimming pool because they certainly were nowhere near our apartment. But we managed, of course we did … some strict shower rotas especially on New Year’s Eve.

It was a fabulous location, a 15 minute walk to Bondi Beach – backpacker’s paradise. Exceptionally busy beach and an area full of bars, cafes, restaurants, shops – over the 8 days we were there we grew to love it. Steve and I pretty much stood out though as we were probably a couple of generations older than anyone else!! We just go with it though – found ourselves a little spot on the sand on the first day – tried to switch off to the Sydney glamour set around us and to the fact that the beach is one big ‘pulling arena!’ Even braved the sea (despite Tom’s scary stories of shark attacks). The waves were incredibly strong and it was quite seaweedy so I didn’t go in far – Steve went further and managed to get himself into a little trouble – found himself suddenly out of his depth and struggling to beat the current to get himself back in. I was waving to him with OK signals but he wasn’t returning the OK. I was aware that the lifeguards were stood behind me talking about Steve, suddenly the one with the fancy bonnet said “I’m going in to get him.” I thought Steve’s gonna love that!! But in the next breath he said “Oh he’s standing now” … I was relieved it didn’t end in a full scale rescue!

And the first couple of evenings we spent in the Sydney Harbour Bridge area … because it’s such an amazing place to be – iconic sights and a great vibe. Steve and I met up with Kaye, Greg, Mark and Shirley there the first night – the younger members of the ‘team’ having gone off to explore Sydney for themselves. When Alice and Mark finally caught up with Tom, he had been wandering all over the city and had discovered many quarters, including 2 hours in the botanic gardens. They sampled some bars in the city area before stumbling upon a rooftop pool party which somehow they managed to get invited into – by this time they had had a fair few drinks so were totally uninhibited by the fact that the partygoers were Sydney’s glamour set and they just blended themselves in … including Tom taking a dip in the pool – a true first night of the holiday experience. Steve and I had a much more sensible first night as it was the Parkrun in the morning!!!

We returned the following evening to the same area because we so wanted Tom, Alice and Marc to see the bridge and the Opera House and of course they loved it. Took a ferry trip to Darling Harbour, had great views of a visiting Cruise Liner.

And this was only the start … we had lots of lovely days to come ….

Footnote: the lack of Tom in the photos is due to the fact that he constantly went wandering … as he does!!!!! 😉