Wednesday, October 12, 2005
Day 139: Melbourne to Sydney - THE END
October 12:
This morning I watched the remainder of "My Fair Lady" - the digitally remastered version, before packing my suitcases to head home.
Caught a lunchtime flight from Melbourne to Sydney, and slept most of the way.
Unfortunately it was very overcast when I arrived, but I got a nice view of the city as we landed.
Mum picked me up at the airport... and took me to my apartment, to get ready for Kol Nidre/Yom Kippur (aka Day of Atonement) - it's the holiest day in the Jewish calendar where you fast 25 hours and go to synagogue tonight and tomorrow morning.
Wow, I'm back in Sydney... Home Sweet Home!
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It's all over... I can't believe it! I've had an amazing time travelling round the world. Lots of surprises, eye-opening experiences, made a whole lot of new friends with whom I plan on staying in touch, learnt a lot more about various countries' history, their way of life, culture and language. Can't wait for my next journey!
Thank you to all those people who have been reading my blog, emailing me, calling me and providing an outstrecthed hand full of love, friendship and support. Travelling alone can sometimes be a scary experience - you never know what is in store!
But to anyone who thinks about doing it, there's no need to think twice - just do it! I had the time of my life, believed in myself, took advantage of the opportunities that were out there for the taking, and met a bunch of wonderful people along the way, who in many ways were my strength when I needed a boost.
I can't wait to share my photos, stories and experiences with those in Sydney, and for anyone else I get to see again soon.
In 139 days, I have been to the USA, Canada, Israel, Greece (and the islands), England, Scotland, Wales, Republic of Ireland, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, back to New York, London, over to Barcelona, Singapore, Melbourne and Sydney.
Leading up to that I was also in New Zealand for just under three weeks (but didn't write a blog for that). In total, I was away for just under 6 months.
Anyone thinking of travelling to these places, before consulting a travel guide feel free to seek my guidance too.
No idea what life now has in store for me... will I stay in Sydney, what work will I do... who knows?! But life is full of mystery, and I have realised I can do anything I like with it - even without a plan.
All you have to do is 'act' upon your words or thoughts, as otherwise it will be too late, and you'll always be saying "I wish..."
Love to all of you... and I look forward to being in touch by email or phone in the future.
This morning I watched the remainder of "My Fair Lady" - the digitally remastered version, before packing my suitcases to head home.
Caught a lunchtime flight from Melbourne to Sydney, and slept most of the way.
Unfortunately it was very overcast when I arrived, but I got a nice view of the city as we landed.
Mum picked me up at the airport... and took me to my apartment, to get ready for Kol Nidre/Yom Kippur (aka Day of Atonement) - it's the holiest day in the Jewish calendar where you fast 25 hours and go to synagogue tonight and tomorrow morning.
Wow, I'm back in Sydney... Home Sweet Home!
-----------------
It's all over... I can't believe it! I've had an amazing time travelling round the world. Lots of surprises, eye-opening experiences, made a whole lot of new friends with whom I plan on staying in touch, learnt a lot more about various countries' history, their way of life, culture and language. Can't wait for my next journey!
Thank you to all those people who have been reading my blog, emailing me, calling me and providing an outstrecthed hand full of love, friendship and support. Travelling alone can sometimes be a scary experience - you never know what is in store!
But to anyone who thinks about doing it, there's no need to think twice - just do it! I had the time of my life, believed in myself, took advantage of the opportunities that were out there for the taking, and met a bunch of wonderful people along the way, who in many ways were my strength when I needed a boost.
I can't wait to share my photos, stories and experiences with those in Sydney, and for anyone else I get to see again soon.
In 139 days, I have been to the USA, Canada, Israel, Greece (and the islands), England, Scotland, Wales, Republic of Ireland, Spain, Portugal, Gibraltar, back to New York, London, over to Barcelona, Singapore, Melbourne and Sydney.
Leading up to that I was also in New Zealand for just under three weeks (but didn't write a blog for that). In total, I was away for just under 6 months.
Anyone thinking of travelling to these places, before consulting a travel guide feel free to seek my guidance too.
No idea what life now has in store for me... will I stay in Sydney, what work will I do... who knows?! But life is full of mystery, and I have realised I can do anything I like with it - even without a plan.
All you have to do is 'act' upon your words or thoughts, as otherwise it will be too late, and you'll always be saying "I wish..."
Love to all of you... and I look forward to being in touch by email or phone in the future.
Tuesday, October 11, 2005
Day 138: Melbourne
October 11:
My last day on holidays... I can't believe it's really at the end. Would love to go back overseas, but must head home for the meantime.
Slept in, then headed with my grandma to two cemeteries... the first, where Lili, her very good friend is buried (she died while I was away), then over to another one, where my grandfather, Marek and my great-aunt Miriam lie to rest. Miriam died in 2003 and Marek in 1996. I haven't been to the cemetery since my grandpa died, so I decided it was important to pay my respects, especially seeing as though now is the 'High Holidays'.
Had lunch at Vera's, grandma's friend, before saying a brief hello to a good family friend, (Lili and Abrasha's granddaughter) Sheli, who is visiting from Israel, and was not in town when I was there in July.
Popped into Tracy to say farewell to her and Deisel, then had dinner with some of my relatives at an Italian restaurant in the evening, to celebrate one of their birthdays.
Said goodbye to my Israeli cousins tonight too - they're heading to New Zealand, very early tomorrow morning.
Hired a video earlier today... "My Fair Lady". Watched some of it this evening with grandma, but it's very long.
My last day on holidays... I can't believe it's really at the end. Would love to go back overseas, but must head home for the meantime.
Slept in, then headed with my grandma to two cemeteries... the first, where Lili, her very good friend is buried (she died while I was away), then over to another one, where my grandfather, Marek and my great-aunt Miriam lie to rest. Miriam died in 2003 and Marek in 1996. I haven't been to the cemetery since my grandpa died, so I decided it was important to pay my respects, especially seeing as though now is the 'High Holidays'.
Had lunch at Vera's, grandma's friend, before saying a brief hello to a good family friend, (Lili and Abrasha's granddaughter) Sheli, who is visiting from Israel, and was not in town when I was there in July.
Popped into Tracy to say farewell to her and Deisel, then had dinner with some of my relatives at an Italian restaurant in the evening, to celebrate one of their birthdays.
Said goodbye to my Israeli cousins tonight too - they're heading to New Zealand, very early tomorrow morning.
Hired a video earlier today... "My Fair Lady". Watched some of it this evening with grandma, but it's very long.
Monday, October 10, 2005
Day 137: Melbourne
October 10:
Slept in a little yesterday, then headed to the Australia Open office at Melbourne Park to meet with some of the team. While I was away, I interviewed for a paid Media position during the event, and got it. As the interviews were all via the phone, I arranged to go in and meet the people behind the voices.
My contract is waiting for me in Sydney. I will be working for three weeks in January, before and during the grand slam event.
Then headed to Glenhuntly Road to catch up with a friend, Mark, for lunch, before taking a stroll up to South Caulfield, where I caught the bus home.
Took the afternoon easy, before making my way into town, to Southbank to have dinner with Lou, a guy from my Greece Contiki tour.
Nice sunny day today...
Slept in a little yesterday, then headed to the Australia Open office at Melbourne Park to meet with some of the team. While I was away, I interviewed for a paid Media position during the event, and got it. As the interviews were all via the phone, I arranged to go in and meet the people behind the voices.
My contract is waiting for me in Sydney. I will be working for three weeks in January, before and during the grand slam event.
Then headed to Glenhuntly Road to catch up with a friend, Mark, for lunch, before taking a stroll up to South Caulfield, where I caught the bus home.
Took the afternoon easy, before making my way into town, to Southbank to have dinner with Lou, a guy from my Greece Contiki tour.
Nice sunny day today...
Sunday, October 09, 2005
Day 136: Melbourne
October 9: Slept in, feeling tired and run down from my cold.
Hope it goes away soon!
My Israeli cousins (that I saw in Israel in July) decided to visit Australia. They were in Sydney during the week, but this morning they arrived in Melbourne. Grandma's house is now a little full, but guess we'll have to manage.
Headed to my favourite cartoon gallery on High St, Armadale - Silver K Gallery - to talk to the owner about my Disney World experiences and to see his latest collections. Bought enough in the USA, but always interested in what's out there.
Big mazeltov to my friend Joel and his girlfriend Anna, on their recent engagement. They've been living overseas the last 18 months, so looking forward to their return in the next month or two.
Had a huge afternoon tea today with a whole lot of relatives I hadn't seen in many years... plus some I saw the other day too. Was great seeing them again, and rekindling the relationshops. Hope to see them more often from now, especially with them all living in Melbourne.
In the evening, went out with my Israeli cousins, Ainat and Zafrir, and my Melbourne cousins, Michelle and Leon. They took us out for a look at Melbourne at night... something I thoroughly enjoyed as I don't usually get time to play tourist. First, we went to the Shrine of Rememberance (the memorial in honour of fallen World War I soldiers), then drove over the West Gate Bridge, through Lygon Street in Carlton, went up the top of the Rialto Building for a great view of Melbourne's lights, and then to Crown Casino for a walk around, late night coffee and a look at the floral display in the hotel foyer in celebration of Melbourne's Spring Racing Carvinal which started last week. Had a great time... should do this more often!
Hope it goes away soon!
My Israeli cousins (that I saw in Israel in July) decided to visit Australia. They were in Sydney during the week, but this morning they arrived in Melbourne. Grandma's house is now a little full, but guess we'll have to manage.
Headed to my favourite cartoon gallery on High St, Armadale - Silver K Gallery - to talk to the owner about my Disney World experiences and to see his latest collections. Bought enough in the USA, but always interested in what's out there.
Big mazeltov to my friend Joel and his girlfriend Anna, on their recent engagement. They've been living overseas the last 18 months, so looking forward to their return in the next month or two.
Had a huge afternoon tea today with a whole lot of relatives I hadn't seen in many years... plus some I saw the other day too. Was great seeing them again, and rekindling the relationshops. Hope to see them more often from now, especially with them all living in Melbourne.
In the evening, went out with my Israeli cousins, Ainat and Zafrir, and my Melbourne cousins, Michelle and Leon. They took us out for a look at Melbourne at night... something I thoroughly enjoyed as I don't usually get time to play tourist. First, we went to the Shrine of Rememberance (the memorial in honour of fallen World War I soldiers), then drove over the West Gate Bridge, through Lygon Street in Carlton, went up the top of the Rialto Building for a great view of Melbourne's lights, and then to Crown Casino for a walk around, late night coffee and a look at the floral display in the hotel foyer in celebration of Melbourne's Spring Racing Carvinal which started last week. Had a great time... should do this more often!
Saturday, October 08, 2005
Day 135: Melbourne
October 8:
Turns out I still have a bad cold! Just wish the weather would be warmer and the rain would cease!
Spent time with Grandma's friends, Ann, Vera, Zula and Abrasha (who is having his birthday tomorrow), before catching up with my cousin Adam and his fiance Jess (they got engaged while I was away).
Then saw my friend Tracy, her husband Michael, and their gorgeous 15 month-old son, Deisel. He's grown a lot since I saw him last in February, and he's now walking too - very cute! They're also building a new house, so it was nice to go over and see how it's going.
Headed to the movies with my friend Stephen and his wife Naomi, to see "Must Love Dogs". Very sweet romantic comedy!
Busy day, but great seeing everyone.
Turns out I still have a bad cold! Just wish the weather would be warmer and the rain would cease!
Spent time with Grandma's friends, Ann, Vera, Zula and Abrasha (who is having his birthday tomorrow), before catching up with my cousin Adam and his fiance Jess (they got engaged while I was away).
Then saw my friend Tracy, her husband Michael, and their gorgeous 15 month-old son, Deisel. He's grown a lot since I saw him last in February, and he's now walking too - very cute! They're also building a new house, so it was nice to go over and see how it's going.
Headed to the movies with my friend Stephen and his wife Naomi, to see "Must Love Dogs". Very sweet romantic comedy!
Busy day, but great seeing everyone.
Friday, October 07, 2005
Day 134: Melbourne
October 7: Arrived safely in Melbourne, Australia... 4.30am. Didn't manage to get any sleep on the 7-hour overnight flight from Singapore, but did get to watch the movies, "Crash" and "Cindererlla Man". They upgraded me to a seat in the class between economy and business, but unfortunately as I was not near a window to lean on, having a bigger seat was of no advantage (when it came to getting any sleep)!
Customs wasn't a problem which was a surprise, so I headed straight for the taxi line to head to my grandma's place. Arrived there around 6am, so decided to have a nap till lunchtime.
Can't believe my adventure is all coming to an end!? Melbourne is my last destination on the long list of cities to visit!
After lunch, I headed to a mobile store to get a SIM card and reactivate my mobile phone (since it was stolen in Athens). So for anyone who wants to call me and has my old number, I am back online!
Despite being freezing cold in Melbourne today (about 14 degrees C and rainy too), I walked home from Chapel Street in South Yarra, back to Toorak.
Unfortunately the plane's air-conditioning and cold weather (huge climate change!) seemed to get the better of me, as by the evening I had a bad cold.
Went to my relatives' house for dinner to catch up with cousins, and my mum's side of my family. Great seeing them, telling them the stories and showing the few photos I'd had printed along the way.
Customs wasn't a problem which was a surprise, so I headed straight for the taxi line to head to my grandma's place. Arrived there around 6am, so decided to have a nap till lunchtime.
Can't believe my adventure is all coming to an end!? Melbourne is my last destination on the long list of cities to visit!
After lunch, I headed to a mobile store to get a SIM card and reactivate my mobile phone (since it was stolen in Athens). So for anyone who wants to call me and has my old number, I am back online!
Despite being freezing cold in Melbourne today (about 14 degrees C and rainy too), I walked home from Chapel Street in South Yarra, back to Toorak.
Unfortunately the plane's air-conditioning and cold weather (huge climate change!) seemed to get the better of me, as by the evening I had a bad cold.
Went to my relatives' house for dinner to catch up with cousins, and my mum's side of my family. Great seeing them, telling them the stories and showing the few photos I'd had printed along the way.
Thursday, October 06, 2005
Day 133: Singapore, then flying to Melbourne
October 6: Spent the day in Singapore:
Went to Suntec City in the morning to check out the shops, and Feng Shui architecture of the complex, including visiting the 'world's largest fountain' and touching the flowing water for good luck.
Walked around the Esplanade (theatres) - which look like fly's eyes - then over to Raffles City and Hotel, and to the top of the Swissotel The Stamford Hotel, to the New Asia Bar on Level 71 to get a great view of Singapore city.
Returned to the hotel to collect my bags and catch my evening overnight flight to Oz (I arrive in Australia - Melbourne - very early on Friday morning, October 7).
Can't believe I'm almost nearly home!
Was hoping the flight was with Qantas, but due to the code sharing arrangements, it ended up being with British Airways. Doesn't matter - will have to wait for the "G'day" in Melbourne rather than on the plane there!
Went to Suntec City in the morning to check out the shops, and Feng Shui architecture of the complex, including visiting the 'world's largest fountain' and touching the flowing water for good luck.
Walked around the Esplanade (theatres) - which look like fly's eyes - then over to Raffles City and Hotel, and to the top of the Swissotel The Stamford Hotel, to the New Asia Bar on Level 71 to get a great view of Singapore city.
Returned to the hotel to collect my bags and catch my evening overnight flight to Oz (I arrive in Australia - Melbourne - very early on Friday morning, October 7).
Can't believe I'm almost nearly home!
Was hoping the flight was with Qantas, but due to the code sharing arrangements, it ended up being with British Airways. Doesn't matter - will have to wait for the "G'day" in Melbourne rather than on the plane there!
