Day 1 Sydney

Following a 5 hour layover in Tokyo (made much easier by a little online cribbage with Hefe) I hopped onto a Boeing 777 heading for Sydney.

I sat next to this Australian, who believe it or not, was really friendly and outgoing. He pointed out an interesting thing that Japan Airlines loading crew does when they have completely loaded the luggage onto the plane. As you taxi towards the runway, the crew stands in an orderly line waving, and then they bow to the plane politely and walk away. Neat little cultural moment, I love those.

I arrived in sunny Sydney, and the heat hit me pretty quick. It was a jump from -4 to 32 Celsius. But all in all, I thought it would be worse considering the time of year. As I walked towards customs, I realized I had no idea where I was staying that night in terms of the address.

(something required on your customs form) So I tried to situate myself in a line where I wouldn't have any trouble. I estimated that if I put myself behind an attractive young backpacker, her looks would distract the customs agent. Turns out the backpacker was suspicious for some reason, and I waited anxiously behind her 20 minutes, when she was promptly escorted to another room. I walked up, and the guy let me right through.

My friend Aras picked me up, and what a host he has been! We have had good food, drink, and he lives a beautiful part of town. GET THIS! The area we live in, on the north side of Sydney Harbour and the Sydney Opera House is called "the North Shore." Guess what bus I take to get home? THE 246! Honestly, what are the chances of that?

Then, something glorious occurred. Jessica Hannon, whom I am forever devoted to, pops by. She is going to spend the night! Aras and I decided to brave the heat and go play some tennis. We had ourselves an excellent game, and I managed to obtain my first sunburn. I look like someone who went downhill skiing all day, while only wearing swimming goggles.

After a lovely dinner, where I met Chris, the ridiculous roommate of Aras. You will see more of him, in the video I have posted. Also met his girlfriend Rebecca, and his friend 'Duckie."

Needless to say, the hospitality has been wonderful thus far. That night we went a famous local bar called the Oaks, which was brilliant. It is actually an old hotel, with dozens and dozens of different rooms, about half of which are designated pool halls. The vibe was really welcoming and unassuming, and it is a place I would definitely recommend.

Most memorable was our stroll home. Hannon and Aras wanted a kebab, and we walked into a place called "The Bay". Aras firmly believed that the gentleman looked like the famous 'Soup Nazi" from Seinfeld. Turns out, he acted like him too. His performance in the video is that of pure perfection.

So that's that for now, hope all is well at home with the family. Hope the friends are happy and healthy, and I hope my mid-December History 12, managed to achieve its purpose. If I recall correctly, the goal was to 'plant the seed for the new year.' Any growth?

Cheerio everyone.

p.s. Was watching the World Junior game. That was a tough pill to swallow, especially considering the only thing to watch after was Cricket.....