Last Night I Didn't get To Sleep At All

We had only a few hours available to us in Oahu having arrived early arvo. We checked into the airport hotel, which was looking a little tired, but it allowed us to catch our final flight home early the next morn without any hassles. After drpping off our bags we taxi'd into the the cultural and social hotspot of honolulu and Waikiki. If there was any joy in having to amend our orignal itinerary due to a cancelled flight it was the capacity for us to visit one of Hawaii's iconic locations.

We caught a bus tour whic allowed us an overview ofthe popular areas, with Honolulu being the business centre and Waikiki being the beach spot most people would be aware of. this coastal location consists of high rise international hotels along the famous beach strip. Across the road from the huge hotels are shops, shops and more shops. There are very few dining choices, and certainly no bars close by apart from the hotels - and of course they charge very high prices. Very shiek indeed and quite different to our experiences of the last few weeks. However we did manage to eat at Dukes, which may be synonymous with Waikiki to some. But I must say, I was a tad bit diasappinted with this tourist spot - its not really for me, mingling with the beautiful people and paying overinflated prices. Give me the quiet and wide spaces of maui anyday. But who knows, maybe one day we'l be back as it would make an interesting stopover if we come home that way.

So that was it. Done and dusted. Mission accomplished and trip completed. I lay awake for a few hrs trying to take in our recent experiences. But i couldn't cncentrate - what did I do last week? Geez it was like a whirlwind having travelled so far, partied so hard, visited so many places by air, bus, train, car and foot. It was fun all the way. All goals were achieved, there were no issues arising along the way and I am sure everyone had a fantastic time. Its a pity a few of them had minor illnesses for part of the journey but it did not hold them back too much i'm sure. But as we were landing at Tulla on friday night Lynne and i asked each other would we do it again? Too bloody right. And as was the case with our trip to Britain in 2008 we determined there is indeed some Unfinished Business.

I should have had an overdose on too many Starbucks (reposted unedited from 18/8/13)

That's Lady GaGa for you less uneducated folk!

Today was always going to be a full day. Its' s Sunday in DC. It is our last full day  here. Nick remains sick but managed to stick with us for most of the day. I'm positive his competitive spirit will help him pull thru to allow him to lead the way once again.. Gary survived a night by himself venturing north out of town to another bar. He was disappinted I didn't go with him but my battery is running rather low. Anyway, he saw another great blues band and made it back by himself. I am envious of his stamina and drive.

Anyway, today we did a thousand things, or so it seems given I have just returned form the sports bar next door to our hotel - those Yankees beat the Redsox, wowee wot a game. Museums galore , all free, more  uses, mofe walkinb, more beers and more food. We're beginning to feel ghere is a pattern - drink eat sleep drink eat sleep... yep, that'll do it. DC is a little like Canberra, but a tad bigger. While it has a population of a bit more than 600, 000, it covers a huge land mass to allow for their memorials. This is memorial city. After visting a significant number of memorials since yesterday I could be forgiven for not having seen a memorial for the forgotten memorials. All good though. We even got acouple of snaps of the Pentagon, which is not ever to be photographed at all. You'd probably better log off now as you could be instigated in a national diplomatic incident given I have made you aware of our criminal act..

The night has ended after a fantastic Italian meal, with accompanying tempranillo wine, followed by a nightcap with Gary to end another amazing day. Made a friend at the bar a local I think of the name of Grandpa simpson - Gary had to rescue me as I couldn't get away.. Gotta love these Americans. They are full of it.

Anyway its 1am again! Goddamn, darnit, shoot... tomoz/today we fly to San Diego. I've had too many sherbets and I, m falling to peep....

Ths moral of the story is, if ever you need a toilet, or as my new friends say, restroom... go to Starbucks as there are no public conveniences anywhere. Avoid embarrasenmt and don't wet yerself haha!!!

me and Gaz - somewhere at sometime - NYC was very hazy

 

 a happy couple indeed at Times Square - which is ain actual fact a triangle - funny Americans

 introducing a proud Aussie tradition to Yankee Stadium - what a day it was for us Yankees with a winner in the bottom of the ninth!

 the obligatory nipple shot (at Radio City Hall) and is NOT one of the Bali 6

 the Bali 6 conquer the Segway in San Diego

with my First lady - feeling absolutely capital at Capitol Hill in DC

 moi playing with my balls at the Laua - and not very well I must say

 a magical sunset at Waikiki - our last night

a random shot of Grand Central Station in NYC -  the purpose of sharing this picture being to show we did some cultural and educational things as well as sit in bars viewing magical sunsets

That’s Not A Knife…. This Is A Kettle

 

OR 

 

NEWSFLASH: Aussie Tourist Creates International Incident at Maui Airport

 

The Americans are not known for their coffee – it’d just bad. Dark, rich & black as a rule, but sometimes whitened with ‘half and half’, a concoction that’s a little bit of milk and a little bit of cream. It is so bad Starbucks is about the best place for a consistent coffee (not to mention availability of toilets). That doesn’t auger well for the coffee drinkers amongst the Bali 6.

Nick & Janine are not coffee drinkers however  they prefer a cup of tea. Morning noon and night they like the joy of a single teabag brewing in a cup of hot water. Tea in the US is served cold unless you request a hot tea. Its otherwise served as an iced confection for brekky which would be disappointing if you were expecting an earl grey. None of rental digs or hotels provided a kettle. Most American’s would not even know what a kettle is. Instead they provide dripolators, percolators and sundry other coffee making machines. . But if you wish to avoid the aged and stained devices supplied in accommodations, and unless you resort to a saucepan you have no means of boiling water for such a simple everyday pleasure as a cuppa.

So being the experienced travellers they are they located and purchased their very own electric kettle. They were free to boil away at any time of day or night. . Shucks they even let us borrow it to brew our own instant coffees, bless them. With all the electrical, technological and communication devices we were collectively carrying, the humble kettle was king. Now N & J are nice people – educated, hardworking, generous kind hearted people and always law abiding – they are very good friend s of ours.

Yesterday morn began early with a trip to the Maui airport for our short flight to Honolulu , from where we were to catch our Sydney flight. Another beautiful day it was, with just the 4 of us as we left the others behind as they had a different itinerary. Fully loaded with bags of all sizes and descriptions ( to accommodate the girls shopping) and hauling expanded suitcases we sauntered thru baggage, check in passport control and proceeded to customs security. Shoes and belts off, jewellery, wallets, hankies, hats, passports, coins…. All prepared for X-ray. AOK. Proceed to full body scan. AOK. Lynne, Janine, myself – AOK. But where is Nick? There he was, held up by security. Initially it appeared his backpack was merely stuck in the X-ray machine. One customs officer mumbled to a colleague who also looked at the x-ray screen. Hmmm, something wrong here as a 3^rd, then a 4^th officer took a look. A few whispers were made amongst themselves, a couple of sighs emanated from the growing throng. One officer took a closer look, squinting at the screen while another scratched his head. They took a straw poll and called for a supervisor.. No one had yet spoken to Nick who remained rooted to the spot in bare feet and holding up his shorts. What the… I thought? At least his body language was positive.

After 10 minutes N turned to us and suggested we three move on to the departure lounge as our flight wasn’t too far away. No, we said, as that may signify we were afraid of something and may be seen to be running away and leaving a scapegoat. So we stayed. There was a lot of discussion amongst the officials and none of us could yet guess as to what any potential issue was. After 20 minutes we determined the bag wasn’t stuck, and it dawned on us something was seriously wrong. A call was made to Homeland security, the major player in border protection services.

While all this was going on, a family of 3 had their belongings held up in the X-ray machine behind N’s backpack. They were not only shoeless but hopping mad. We 3 joked (from a short distance) amongst ourselves and tried to make light of the situation – was it his laundry? Or maybe the teabags he carried appeared as some funny substance. Or maybe some unscrupulous person had placed something in his bag.

The uniformed and officious looking head honcho arrived and cupped his head in his hand with arms crossed. Muted conversation could be heard but still no clues were given. The group was now a small army. What the hell had N done? 25 minutes elapsed… 30…

The backpack was finally removed from its cavern, along with the other parties shoes. They were waved on and scooted. N remained transfixed, more than likely feeling displeasure while refraining from displaying any negative emotion. The Head Honcho put on rubber gloves – we thought he was to undergo a thorough and very personal physical examination. But alas, the gloves were for the purpose of a meticulous and long lasting visual examination of the offending article. Head Honcho appraised the situation while his minions provided him with coffee. After a poke and prod the backpack was picked up for further visual review. Anyone who watches CSI would be disappointed if they were expecting a prompt outcome for a result was in no way imminent. N fidgeted – stand still, man! Don’t give yourself away, whatever you may have done, we’re here for you! 30 minutes gone and no facial expressions were made by either side. It was becoming a game of wills. An Officer smiled at N. Hurrah, it appeared they had made a simple mistake and we were free to proceed.

Uh-uh. Inch by inch, piece by bloody piece, this damnable carry-on luggage was to be given an even more thorough examination, a damn good thrashing, if you will.

I anxiously checked my watch. Minutes were racing by and we had a flight to catch in 40 minutes. This was meant to be another great and carefree day. To quote our many new American friends things appeared to be going to hell in a hand basket.  Every single item in the bag was pawed over, played with, scrutinized, bent, smelt and then the process was repeated. Several times. 38 minutes to flight time…

It wasn’t the tea bags that were the issue when they were casually placed to the side by HH. The problem seemed to be with the bloody kettle. Who carries a kettle in their carry on? Screwdrivers were produced but we couldn’t predict what their intention was with a piece of moulded plastic and a couple of wires. 38 minutes…

Finally, a word was had with N, but we couldn’t tell what was said. He maintained a positive stance. Way to go matey, I thought, positive body language is the key. Defy them to the end. It wouldn’t be the same without him – we’d have to rename ourselves the Bali 5!!! N commenced a game of charades as he feebly attempted to explain the rudimentary workings of an electric water boiler, how to dunk a teabag a prescribed number of times, and how to drink a cuppa with the pinky extended. HH did not look impressed, whether with N’s explanation or his awful miming was difficult for us to discern from 10 mtrs away. 36 minutes…

The culprit, AKA an el cheapo kettle, was placed aside. Maybe it was to be cuffed and taken to a backroom for an interrogation. The backpack was then X-rayed several times by itself, back, front, front, top, inside out. 34 minutes…

N continued to hold his nerve. HH displayed a sense of wanting to get his man. I started tapping my feet as I put my IPod on. HH gave the OK for N to repack his bag sans kettle. Shoes were reshod, belt reapplied and pants hitched up, a subtle Aussie indication of having stuck it up ‘em. N led the way up the stairs to the departure lounge with we 3 sheep following close behind wondering what the hell it was all about. We made our flight with only 32 minutes to spare. True dinks.

And what of the kettle I hear you ask? Well it remains in full working order and made it safely to Melbourne while confined to an overstuffed suitcase. And BTW, stuck to the kettle was a short note from its owners:

THIS PECULIAR ITEM IS CALLED A KETTLE. IT IS USED FOR BOILING WATER. FOR OUR HOT TEA!

Just in case.

Have been v busy last day or 2, so much to say to my apparently avid readers. So while I am currently id Sydney awaiting our final flight home, I will add some notes over th coming days. My w/end will involve watching my beloved local Dogs in their first ever division 1 final. My flight has just been called so I am orf.

Having breakfasted we now set down the order of the day. The Bali 6, minus moi, are headed off on a rubber dinghy to far flung climes for some snorkelling. My job is to stand by ans deal with the Austalian consulate officials should they be spirited away to some uncharted isle by Somalian pirates. For mine, I am simply sitting in a mix of sun and shade, blogging, reading and snoozing prior to meeting up with the others for some late arvo frivolity.  We then have assorted beers, rum and cocktail mixtures to consume prior to packing tonight for tomorrows half hr flight to Honolulu or some place.

Yesterday was a day of leisure. It was bloody hot. A day for taking it easy and keeping up the fluids. My God it was hot. Still, no complaints from me as the boys sought relief in the occassional bar on a walk home from town, while the girls went shopping - again. We found our selves on the rooftop, on the 3rd fl, of Fleetwoods, which is undoubtably the foremost bar, club and possibly restaurant in Lahaina. The 3rd fl gave us a glimpse of both sea and mountains and while we didnt want to leave there were a numbef of establishments left to explore. G and I were a bit tardy in our return home and we requested our lovely security man give us a lift to our door on the back of his golf buggy.

Ten minutes to get ready then we headed off to our Laua. A good nights entertainment, plenty of food and drink and a few laughs. Then it was a an early retirement to bed.

I must add, our walking distances appear to be reducing each day as we now heavily rely on the cheap and readily available taxis. We can order a taxi and it will arrive b4 we have our shoes on. And if its only 10 bucks into town for the 7 of us, why not?

And do yourself a favour if you ever get to Hawaii. Try the Hula Pie. While im onto food, dont expect lamb on the menu while in the states. They dont have sheep here and evrything is beef. But then, they do have fresh seafood in these parts, and lobster is cheap cheap. But I think I will provide further comment on the food generally at a later time. Hows thw weather at your end? Whoops, I must duck inside and apply some SUNSCREEN.

I think I just saw George Clooney run past along the beach. I must catch him.

Should I Stay Or Should I Go?

Please please please tell me it isnt true? I have started our last day on Maui with the door to the deck open. You dont evn have to lift your head from the pillow to get those amazing ocean views aas depicted in the photos posted earlier. As I watched the lightening sky it has dawned on me (no pun intended... or maybe it was) our great adventure is coming to an end. For tomorrow Lynne Nick, Janine and I bid farewell to Gary and Jenny and Roberta. I predicted it would be a wild ride, and my prediction was spot on. If someone had told me prior to departure that ww would not have time to do the things we planned to do I could not have agreed more. But we have done it, we have achieved and seen things that were only a mere forethought all those months ago.

So was it worth it? An unresoundably YES. Would we recommendvit to others, again, yes, at least in part. Are we over budget? Shit yeah. The US is not a cheap place to live, and with the Ozzie dollar sinking faster than the Essenson footy club places like NYC may again be only a dream for many. But make the effort. I had no idea of what it would be like but NY exceeded my expectations, but with the Bali 6, and particularly the meticulous and incessant planning on a daily basis by sergeant major Gary, it was a momentous occassion. And much appreciated by L and I.

But again I digress as I nonchalantly wipe the sleep from my eyes and focus on the far horizon. Whats that I see on the far horizon? Could it be Australia? No, its only another sun soaked pacific island that is enticing me to go explore.

Yesterday found us doing nothing much at all. While the plan was always to relax in our final week after walking 1000 miles around mainland USA, or so it seemed, the Bali 6 made a short list of activities we would each like to undertake while on Maui. After all, while visiting such a beautiful island in the middle of the Pacific, having perfect weather, and regaining our physical attributes and mental accuity in the meantime, there is plenty to see and do.

But oh no, we have collectively sat on our enlarged backsides, whiling away the hours by sitting in the sun, having seafood dinners, with girls going shopping, while the guys check out the seedier side of Lahaina (if there is such a thing). Bars visited in the last month are numerous, with a different one each time, save for a few we frequented for no particular reason. Local draught beers tasted have been numerous also, and while Gaz has kept a fully detailed list of beers consumed, what happens on the trip stays on thw trip. I can say however there was one interesting and funny story, I think it was in DC, where G made a bet with the waitress over the size of the beer glasses, saying it was a pint glass we were being served. The waitress vehemently disagreed stating it was indeed a pint. Suggestions were made the issue be googled otherwise it was to be a duel at dawn. The witress smiled saying she cant use her phone while on duty. So Gary did! And what did he find? Both were correctt. As with most things the Americans cock things up by doing things there own way, a US pint being 16 oz and the oz/English pint being 20 oz. So it was smiles all round and we ordered another beers each.. so there is a word of warning I can give to any intrepid fellow traveller, remember that in the States their beer glasses are BIG!

But back to the story... we had considered the benefits of large international hotel/resort atyle accomodation when planning our trip. Prices proved exorbitant. So yesterday we ventured a few miles north to view what we had missed out on - lots of high rise, packed beaches, screaming kids etc. So we were happy with our choice of quiet lodgings with private gardens and beaches and a half hour from any shops. Anyway, while we were there we thought we'd sample what the Westin Hotel offers its guests. And as we happened to be wearing our cossies, and coincidentally were carrying towels, we availed ourselves of their many pools and worked on our tans. So everyone was happy as we can tell all our friends of how accomodaing the Westin staff are and their facilities are 2nd to none. (But they are pricey at over $325 per night).

I forgot to mention that a couple of days ago we were joined by Roberta, a friend of Nick and Janine, who is staying with us to thw conlusion of the journey. Unfortunately half os us have to leave a day earlier than planned as Mesa, that  world renowned airline, and winner of many awards in aviation circles (insert laugh track) had rescheduled our flight. Well now Qantas haa not yet validated our flight and we need to aeeive at the local airport a few hrs earlier than expected. So if we dont arrive home you'll know where we are... Maui.

Saw Mick Fleetwood play the blues. For free. No need to say anymore presently as Im all overcome.

Its Saturday, mid arvo, more of the same weateher. 31 and sunny, light breeze. We have our beersq and our malibu and our rum. There are rib eyes cookin on the griddle. We are seated metres from the beach and poring a rough USA red to accompany our bbq feast.. then it will be a swim in the Pacific, or maybe a lazy float in the pool. Or maybe both. It will then be a stroll into town where we are to hopefully catch legendary 70s muso, Mick Fleetwood, playing with his local band at his own restaurant that bears his name. The equally legendary Crosby And Nash are playing a benefit with friend Jackson Browne, but I believe we miss that opportunity by only hours, darn it.

Last night was a lazy swafood sinner at a more appropiate time of 8pm. We arw now collapsing into bed befoee midnight since we arrived at Hawaii. I am up at my regular 6 to 7 am, to brilliant sunshine and bikini girls. N has come good and is back to his comp3titive best. The others still have a severe cough, and while the fluid intake has been maintained we are now to attempt the 94 per cent local rum. There is too much to say and so little time to say it. Photos have been a bit problematic but there will be more to come as we start to commence the countdown to our imminent return to homebase. But not for a while....

Dinner on our private lawn last night, sorry you weren't here with us.

We may no longer be on the mainland, but this is the life for the Bali 6. One day in Maui is enough to convince us this is THE PLACE for the forseeable future for all of us. Temp in the 30s, a bit of humidity, very tiring but for different reasons to which we are used to. We woke up to the shadow of palm trees thru our see thru blinds, and the sound of gently crashing waves. Our room is on the 1st fl of our condo, only metres from the beach at Lahaina. Quite incredible. Having had a restless night due to sleeping on the plane o'night my first clear vision was a saliling vessel floating serenely past our window. We headed off for brekky along the waterfront. The girls did some grocery shopping while the lads did a recce of the town. Several bars later we determined our initial pub crawl was a success. It was only lunchtime! A couple of swims and a lazy dinner on our private beach... Hows life with you buggers?

Leaving On A Jet Plane

And so we prepare to depart the American mainland and head for the far flung outpost called Maui. Trent left us this arvo to return to his digs in Sth Dakota and his uni life, as well as to his betrothed. It was good catching up with him as we have known him for almost 20 yrs. We also wish him well in his collegiate basketball career as he prepares for his third and final year..

N is now back on deck after missing a few sinners and many more beers the last few nights. The kennel coughers are straining to recover, I'm the only one to have avoided it, possibly because of my standing as a fine physical specimen of a man, but probably because I had suffered a cold 2 weeks prior to departing wintry Melbourne.

The weather in SD has been great, sunny and mis 20s. The temp tommorrow in Maui is 31!!! It sounds like another hard slog is upcoming for us all. I dont know how much more of this we can take..............

We did some shopping this morn, very cheap for clothing and our suitcases have been expanded for this leg. But we are still carrying a bit of grog. We will somwhow dispose of that in Hawaii prior to our return leg. We did anotger Segway tour this arvo. My goal is to import segways and run my own tourist business from home, which will see me into semi retirment. I will see if I can upload a few piccies in the coming days as I expwct to have more time. Ooroo for now and stay safe out there.

I love San Diego. Again, its a place far removed from what L and I had previouly  experienced in the US of A. Its certainly got that west coast vibe. And the great thing is the Mexican influence, with Tijuana being only a few miles away. Talk of crossing the border was discussed but only for a short while as the queues can take 3 hrs each way. Besides, we are getting a feel for the southern neihbours where we are based in the Gaslamp Quarter.

We have picked another great hotel to place our weary heads. Though it is strange many places do not provide fridges. Therefor theres no milk, so no coffee drinking in our rooms, bad, bad, bad. Imagine our surprise when we walked in our room upon arrival. Our widow opened onto Petco Park, the home of the San Diego Padres. A baseball game was underway, and under the glare of the overhead light towers we were able to watch the game from a few hundred meters, with only 3rd bas and the outfield fence being out of view. We were looking at home plate from over the pitchers left shoulder and could hear the roar of the fans as well as the entertainment. Within minutes, however, we found perfect seats on our hotels rooftop bar to watch a bit of ball and slake our raging thirsts.

We spent yesterday with half of the group heading to Seaworld to see the Orcas and polar bears, while the others caught a trolley bus tour to gain a bit of history and see as many sights as we could. We had a walk along a fantastic beach at Del Coronado. Paid a flying visit to Balboa Park. I can inform you there are more tatts and piercings on the local girls here than wnywhere wlse I have been. That inspired me to undergo somw manscaping at Flloyds Barbershop where a nice young girl performed things on my body I have not undertaken for some years. While not quite the BS and C, lets say I have awoken today feeling a little more vital.

The girls went shopping in the evening, nick retired for a Nanna nap, while G ans I visited the rooftop bar and viewed the first few innings of the Padres game. Then it was off for one of the best Mexican dinners we have ever had. And a couple of margaritas, natch. All this and more in beautiful downtown San Diego.

The fear Of Flying...

I have no real fear of flying. But its the anxiousness of any inveterate traveller that I offten feel. Flying itself is good - a real experience. Typically it would mean I am either flying to or from some far flung destination. While returninig from hols is not totally enjoyable at any time, it does mean I am returning to the place I love best - the place qhere I live, and where my family and friends are.

But its the anxiousness that remains with me for the duration of each journey by air. Its the great unknown... what seat will I get? Will lynne and I be seated together? Or will I be the one that gets the fat dude in the seat next to me? The screaming child, the incessant kicks in the back of the paper thin seat? What about the hits in the head as you fight to get to sleep? And then theres the passenger that has the window seat ans has a weak bladder. Yes, theres hundreds of ways to disturb me and get up my nose on each flight. Surely it doesnt only happen to me?

Aplos to my avid readers, which appear to be increasing - I suppose that a good sign - for not posting yesterday. I posted on the wrong blog. The use of this tablet thingy is sometimes problematic... oh for my laptop. Another issue has been the occaasional lack of wifi access. And then theres the demon drink ans aleep deprivation. Oh for a holiday. Too many times I have found myself falling asleep as I type, abit like work! Only jokin, y'all.

We have commenced our homeward trip. We journeyed from Dc to San Diego via Atlanta today. If you have an interest in airports look up Atlanta, its huge. So, westward ho, with a little light turbulence. The land of the free ans the home of the brave is a little weird presently.. The NE has unseasonably mild weather, the W has bushfires  while the SE is flooded.

DC was great. While we had only a ahort stay we got a v good feel for the nations capital. Its like a big Canberra but with less roundabouts. And more Yanks. Our Segway tour was a highlight for me, the moat fun I've had standing up. No one was injured and no property damaged which was a blessing given the various waivers riders and authorisations we had to sign. DC is essentially a place housing memorials. The only one I didnt see was a memorial recognising memorials, but maybe that is currently being planned. But the size ans the grandeur of the old buildings cannot be denied, nor can the historical significance. Whether you like it or not, this place has an everyday affect on each of our lives, maybe only only in a miniscule way, on a daily basis.

The team is struggling a little with a bit of kennel cough and we have bwen advised by nurse Janine to keep up our fluids hahaha. Nick is fortunately still in the land of the living, but continues to struggle. Hopefully a few tequilas may assist.

Gaz and I visited the local sports bar Sunday night for a Yankees night game. With school resuming from the summer break the next day, the game finished about midnight. The Yankees beat those Redsox, yay. We partied qith the locals and G has to rescue me from Homer Simpson who was paying me particular attention. Anyhiw, time to go to peep, as Manuel would say. This travel game is tiring. Ww are now in a new time zone. We have walked, we have talked, we have ridden ob buses, and cruised on boats. We have waten and drunken and even caught a bit of sleep, but thats Dc. Compared to NYC we could call call DC The City That Often Sleeps.

And dont evn ask how Jen broke Garys glasses while dancing on the bed. What happens in the bedroom, stays in the bedroom.

Did the segway tour of the various memorials and important/iconic buildings in DC this morn. No one fell off or made a goose of themselves. The money was apparently on me to be the one that face planted or ran under a car, but wasn't to be.

My observations were: the Whitehouse is smaller than anticipated, the Washington Monument was under reconstruction due to a 2012 earthquake , the Lincoln memorial and sundry others were exciting to see.

We had lunch. Yep, we went out for lunch. Thats something I cant recall having done in the last couple of weeks. We did a bus ride, then dinner at a more respectable time of 8pm. We were minus Nick for the 2nd day in a row as is still crook.were back early tonight with stumps at 11pm. Sleep in? No, as reveille is at 6.30 as a big day beckons.

DC

Made it safely. The Melrose hotel is good, big room. The emergency alarm went off as we percolated our first coffee (coffee is generally crap here) and had to evacuate. After sprinting down 6 flights we were advised it was a false alarm. I can't help but feel if we didn't ask, we wouldnt have been told anything. Whatever. Nick is sick in bed. We expect him to survive, however.dinner at a local Thai was consumed by 10.30. I believe the energy expended earlier today has taken its toll and the bodies require a period of recovery. So its been a rather quiet day.

Tomorrow morn we make our first attack on DC - a segway tour of the local memorials. We only have 3 nights here so are planning a couple of tours by bus and walks. The weather is a little cooler than in NY, and the crowded streets are already but a memory.  A big sleep is lulling meeeeeeee...... Zzzzzz

Now You're Just A City That I Used To Know

We are on a bus to Washington. I'll call it DC for short, I think we are about to become good friends. Just like we were with NYC. New York and I got on very well for the duration of our all to brief relationship. It was a relationship based on trust, and great friendship. It was not a lustful relationship, for she would devour you in an instant. But it could become a relationship of deep love and a wanting for more. But distance is a tyrant and either she or I will likely find a new love in some future travels.

But she wore us down. It took 10 nights and 11 days, but she finally beat us. We gave it our best shot but despite having sampled her many events, buildings, museums, shops, boats, subways, churches, landmarks, exhibits, footpaths, bars and restaurants, we are worn out. You cannot survive on beer and fried food alone, nor on 5 to 6 hrs sleep a night. Last night Gary, Jen, Lynne and myself made a last desparate attempt to kill the beast called New York City. We visited one of the citys premiere blues bars, stayed up too late and had too much cheer. Made friends with the support act. The aged black soloist had me crying - literally. Avery poignant time for me apparently, but I think I got away without the others noting. The girls assisred the guys onto the subway and we were tucked up in bed by 2 this morn. NY, she won yet again.

So, DC it is. We have a 4 hr bustrip on a Peter Pan coach with wifi, toilet and extra legroom. Woophee. We just hit the freeway, or parkway as us locals call it... and have come to a full stop - sound familiar? We tried ro get a self drive bus which appeared exorbitant and impractical. Buses appear to keep this nation moving. And they are cheap.

There is so much to say I dont have the time to tell all. Yet. This trip will be discussed and regaled for a long time to come. Then I will likely repeat myself. Then I will likely repeat myself, again and again til y'all fully understand how much fun we are having and what this trip means to me woman and me.

Gotta go. Need sleep. Theres a bar somewhere in DC I'm destined to meet.

Today was a tad slower. Everyone enjoyed a non scheduled sleep in. Breakfast out with huge amounts of butter and oil soked French toast and sausage and egg for the missus and I. 3 eggs, not 2, is de minimus. It was cooler  temp today and a strong wind blew up as we took a water taxi ride around (most of) Manhattan Island.

Most of the group wnet on a following jet boat ride around the Hudson and East rivers. I accompanied Nick and Trent to a bowling alley where the son wooped his dads ass.

We ended the day with a Broadway thetre production, Motown. Quite good, but not so enjoyable when you have some black dudes sitting in front of you who were acting as if they were on crack, while 6 ft 6 Trent sat behind a group of short statured people. But a good time was had by all. Then it was to a bar where jwe had a few prior to sending this post, tee hee hee. I must add, while it again clicks over 1am, we actually fitted in dinner prior to the 8pm show which is positively adventageous.

Its about time I advised of the crowd we're travelling with: Nick and Janine, and their son Trent. They are catching up with him as he has been in USA for 2 yrs playing college basketball. As is frequently the case, boy meets girl. Howver in this case Trent has met a girl of his dreams, and has announced their engagement. Oh, the joy at this end. All romantic it was too. Anyway, Hannah has now returned home to Minnesota while Trent continues with us until our Maui leg. Having met the betrotheds parents over dinner a few nights ago, and moi making such an impression over a few cordials, I expect we will be invited to the big do next year. In Minnesota! Our future travel plans may be in disarray. I need to speak to the boss!

Gary and Jen we have known since the day Jen started her first job, which coincided with L's first day. All our kids went to scool together. We have shared previous hols together, from Hobert to Bali and Thailand, and now the USA. How I put up with them is anyones guess, but I have had a couple of beers.

Falling asleep now as I mentally prepare for tomorrows venture, being our last full day in NYC. Apparently I'm going shopping, hahaha...

No time to think of a catchy title this morn. Had a little lie in, had had our earliest bed time of 12.30 and L and I turjned down after dinner drinks with the guys. We had a beautiful Korean dinner at 10.30 - yes, lots of rice immediately b4 bed. I am a half inch shorter I'm sure after all the bloody walking. Did the NYC Museume as well as the Explorers Club. The Rockefeller Ctr observation deck was ticked off last evening. Gotta go, brekky beckons.

Ho Hum, another shitty day in paradise...

We are getting old. My knee is playing up and L is suffering swollen ankles from all the walking and stair climbing. But age shall not weary them and we will press on during our final days in NYC.

Today sees the first heavy rain. Locals have indicated we need to be aware of possible weather changes - I take it they have never heard of Melbourne's weather.

Yesterday commence with our 2nd visit to Tiffanys where they were set loose. There were smiles all around as the blokes paid for their brownie points. Did the Highline, which was a tad disappointing for mine, not much there. Did the Nazi soup kitchen, the NY Comedy Club, and then a Cuban dinner at 10.30. Asleep by 1.30 this morn, have just breakfasted as we plot our attack on DC in 3 days time. We're considering hiring a mini bus and spending a few hrs in Philly as the drive, with a very confidant Nick at the wheel, is only about 4 hrs away.

The weather has been great, from warm to very warm with high humidity. Only had a couple of light showers before today. Shorts and tshirts all the way, we have grossly overpacked. We have had no trouble entering any events, exhibits bars or restaurants in very casual dress, and probably smelly by days end.

We, ve just determined we will visit the Explorers Club, which is a public museum on... explorers. They have an extensive history and artifacts on thw worlds great ans sometimes little known explorers. Tonight we have booked the Rockefeller Center for a tour and observation. Who knows what we'll do in between, but NY had better watch out.

Ooroo for now.

Losing My Religion...

?..not quite. Today was a very spiritual day indeed. It started early this Sunday with a religious service in Harlem. Gary, Jenny and myself ventured many many streets north of our digs in Midtown to attend a church service at the Convent Avenue Baptist Church. Gary had sourced this gospel experience on the interweb or some such thing. Quite exciting for us 3 intrepid travellers thinking we're to trek where few whites have been before. While we were excluded from the official 2 hr service due to our need to leave prior to the end of the service we had an opportunity to hear some wonderful gospel singing. We also missed out on the soulfood which was a bummer.

With a warm inner glow we walked across the road to a much smaller church. We walked into a small congregation, and after we joined in the clapping and dancing we were asked to introduce ourselves. Everyone then made it their job to shake hands with each of us. All 100 of them. Kids of all ages, mums dads, grandmums and grandpappies - all of them black and wanting us to share life with them. With a drummer and keyboard and 2 male singers, the house rocked. Loud and brash it was the most fun I've had standing up for quite a while. The preaching was what I would refer to as Southern in presentation, and was exactly what I had been seeking. We walked out with ringing in our ears and Jesus in our hearts. A heartwarming and humbling experience indeed.

We took a walk on the wild side from Harlem into the Bronx for our next nirvana moment, and something we had planned months in advance. A trip to Yankee Stadium. The Yankees had not won too many games since we arrived, with games being played most days. In fact we, yes we, were on a bad streak of losses.. of  course something had to go awry as the day had been going so well. So well, in fact, I became separated from Jen and Gary as we left The Dugout Bar to meet with the others who had the tix. With no ticket, no phone, little money and only a smattering of the American language, I prepared myself to watch the game from The Dugout. I knew the others would return when they were ready. Anyway, we all got in ans witnessed, while bathed in sunshine, a Yankees win in the bottom of the 9th innings with 2 out. A truly remarkable, and very Manhattan day!

 The 9/11 Memorial Tree

The Boys

 The Girls, all 4 of them

N.Y.C.

New York Cleavage.

I have to push on.we have to push on. Another night of minimal sleep was followed by yet another late finish. We have just returned home from dinner. It is after 1am. 1am is the new black.

Today was chock full of excitement. Early start. Grand Central Station tour - tick. 9/11 Memorial - tick. Statue of Liberty - tick. New Jersey - baby we were born to run - tick. Manhattan skyline viwed under the setting sun - tick. Empire State Building observation deck by night - tick. Having had no lunch - and no beer - dinner at 11pm - tick. Note, we all walked up to the 86th floor, repeat WALKED UP THE STAIRS TO THE 86TH FLOOR!!! And what a view it was. And busy as a Friday arvo in Bourke St.

So much more to say, but no time as its now 1.17 am. Piccies WILL come eventually, but hopefully am on the way to a gospel type religous ceremony in Harlem tomorrow, nay today - in 6 hours.

My knee has exploded and I am struggling. Lynnes feet are a giant blister so a popping is awaiting soon. The adrenaline is taking affect and we know we must push on. The team is depending on us.

Love to the kids. And thanks for the feedback y'all.

Goodnigth from me - and her!


!,,


New York Times with
New

Feels like someone put a cap in my ass

I'm suffering from bus bum. Apparently its a well known local physical affliction, oft suffered by international tourists in Ny. Symptoms feel like a pain in the rear end and causes you to wince upon being seated. Its caused by all seats in Ny being wood or plastic and having no padding. You want a seat on a bus, you want a seat on a train, its hard plastic. You go out to eat its hardwood chairs. Bars? More of the same. Back to the apartment and its more of the same. The best way to alleviate the discomfort is lie postrate, but that can only occur between the early hours of 1 - 6 am. The condition fully resolves upon returning home, but thats not for a while.

21 Elephants

Today was the biggest, longest, busiest and most tiring day thus far. Lynne and I retired about 3am yesterday, up at 7.30 and its now approaching 1am. You do the math!

This was the first day we had planned the activities to be undertaken for the entire day. The schedule was arranged by Trent, the son of our travelling companions Nick and Janine. Westarted with a bike ride around Central park. With me behind L on a tandem it made for a very funny ride. Highlights were locating the bridge featured in so many films I cant remember any presently, and Janine almost running over someone that looked very much like Susan Sarandon!

Then we were off to Tiffanys. For the girls who had each chosen an item to accompany them home. Unfortunately not so, as L couldnt find the right size for her chosen bangle. Then off to Brooklyn via Shanksys pony and subway. Of course it was only my ticket that wouldnt work, and a situation occured where everyone else was boarding the train while I was battling with electronic gate. Well, like something out of The Warriors I had to make a choice, over or under, and under the barrier I crawled to the amusement of many.

Our second trip to Brooklyn was to achieve another goal, that is, a pizza at Grimaldis, which is arguably the best pizza in NY. Good it was too, and we overordered as usual. The temperature had risen to the high 20s and came with extremely high humidity. Our general discomfort was exacerbated  by our swollen and blistered feet. And that preceeded our long walk back to Manhattan via the Brooklyn Bridge. I suggest you google the history of this bridge, and hence the title to this post.

Then subway again to Grand Central Station, unfortunetely too late for a guuded tour of this iconic and majestic old building, as it was now peak rush hour on a Friday night. So to a bit more shopping (shoes shoes shoes) while en route to Little Italy for a very late dinner.

But before we got there there was the obligatory Phil moment where I needed a toilet. Urgently. But thats a story for another day.

I will update when I get achance on by accompanying travelling group. Theres many stories to tell but I just cant make the rime. That may change next week sometime but currently tehres many boxes to tick. Ive also had requests for photos but that, too, also takes time. Gotta go as we're up again in 6 hrs for today I think were off on a boat to some boring olde statue. Ooroo.

I have a dilemma. To blog or not to blog. Its not for the lack of having something to say, for their is much to be told about NYC. But I really dont have time to prepare any meaningful comment as we are all too busy playing the role of tourists. Its early to rise each day, and very late finishes. Its become a routine but one that may not besustainable long term. We'll soon suffer burnout and need a long holiday to recover.

Yesterday was our walking tour. 10amstart and 5pm finish. A fantastic guide in Ted who took us all over this 34 sq mile island, uptown, downtown,, east and west, overground, underground and by subway. Speaking of transport - the trains are great, caught 4 of them, with a total waiting time of only a few minutes. If you want a taxi theres over 13, 000 of them. And most of them are on the road and not stuck at the airport or casino.

Hopefully I will get the opportunity to provide more updatws shortly. I'd love to ttell you more about my travelling companions and what they are like to live with...

Ive just has brekky, but now the others are up and they want to go out to eat. Ho hum.

Its been a hard days night

Today was the day we visited the spot where the great man Mr John Lennon was slain. While I am not a huge fan of his music I am certainly appreciative of his contribution to popular culture, as well as the influence he had on the people of the world. His loss was felt by all.

The D's day began at 4:45am. Yep, after blogging til half past midnight, we could only sleep for 4 hrs. So with heavy legs Lynne and I set off for a walk and watched the city awake. Tremendous experience. While getting a coffee at Starbucks a Beck song was playing loudly when 2 dudes of a darker persuasion ran in. Wondering what was to happen next one of them broke into song -a singalong with Beck - what a voice. Gotta love this city!

We took a 2 hr bus tour of Central Park and upper Manhattan. This followed our 1st diner experience where I had pancakes with stupidly enormous amounts of 

Syrups and butter with bacon and eggs. Heart attack territory I know as the others looked on, maybe in awe but probably with concern, but its another ticked box within my first 12 hrs in NYC.  

At the moment we're sucking on a couple of local brews in our Manhattan brownstone apartment. The fridge has been stocked. We also bought some food type sustenance from the local Amish market cos ive been told a man cannot live on hops alone. But gotta go soon as were off on another bus trip- a 2hr night trip to see the lights on the Manhattan skyline. Then it'll be off to another typically late dinner - just as the locals do. And after a fun filled day in the sun we already feel like Manhattanites.. I trust the temperature at home is warm enough for you.

It would appear last nights post was somewhat nonsensical. Que sera as they say. Blame it on the beer and the jet lag. Only got 4 hrs sleep then up for a walk and watched a city of 8 million wake up. I suspect a large number of them didn't actually retire for the night. Have crossed one thing off my to do list - the ol steam rising from the street vents. Now for the next one, a few bagels for brekky.

NEW YORK, New York

Weve arrived safe and well. No hiccups, great trip - as far
as long hauls go.

The trip itself went to plan, no holdups, no eventualities. There was one minor issue but no need to mention that as was very minor.

Anyway, weve been here 7 hours and have done 2 bars and had dinner. VerY good local brews indeed. Weve seen one New York Yankees game on tv (lost) and visited Times Square. My suitcase was visited by Home Security at NY airport - one broken lock, hole in my bag and mangled zipper. Gotta love those Yanks.

Anyway, met a nice man on the flight to LAX. He asked us all about our trip, real friendly guy. He was on his way to Boston for business. Seated next to us he was a good influence as we departed our kids and home environment. Anyway, nothing much had happened on the flight til I was provided with my meal - missing cutlery. I asked the hostie for provision thereof. All I said was "thats a knife?" And prepared myself to say "this is a knife" in eloquent aussie fashion. At which time a burly hand was laid on my shoulder saying "did I mention I'ma USAir marshall"? Be careful out there!

Farewell, Amen

Well here we are. Tulla. We're seated at our departure gate overlooking the Reginald Duigan-a bloody big airbus I must say. This morning was a breeze, taxi pick up at 5 am, only 40 minutes to the airport, checked in within 10, tax rebates done in 5 and 4.5 lt of great scotches selected in the next 10. Unfortunately, as we went to pay we were informed we couldnt pre purchase our duty free grog as we were returning via Sydney!

 So we put our 7 bottles back and had a coffee instead.

 Seated in the lounge we thought we'd take advantage of Melbournes fantastically advanced cutting edge technology. Free wifi anyone? Not here in Tulla. You gotta pay. Bloody Rudd. Oops, Lynne just found the correct link.

 So, another hour til boarding, no grog, no wifi, the wife being frisked by security, we've just been requested to change seats because of a security issue (not the missus). But the suns coming up and today is another glorious day. Today is special. Today is good!

 PS: as much as y'all know I like to be meticulous with my grammar and spelling, this may not always be possible as I battle my way forward on the new tablet. Please forgive me.

Prologue

The apprehension... the anxiety... the excitement...

Then the unexpected and certainly unwanted confirmation of a flight cancellation. Oh well, what's a few hundred dollars of unusable accommodation and the cost of extra flights?

Anyway, it's building. As big as the Burj Khalifa. Now it's the anticipation. Eased somewhat by a convivial glass of Angoves Nine Vines rose and a creamy pasta as my beloved Saints game awaits. Lunch tomoz with the kids, an early night, then we're in the hands of the taxi driver.

As long as he turns up on time - and doesn't cancel - the buggers!