Sunday, 14 September 2008

Worst Blogger Ever!

Initially I had thought that I would be blogging away on a daily basis - perhaps even twice daily - explaining all of my adventures, uploading pictures and generally sharing all of the merriment in which I partake.

unfortunately this hasn't quite been the case. This wasn't planned on my behalf but I've been somewhat inundated with "things to do!". This, of course is only a good thing! Since I moved into the hostel I have acquainted myself with a good many people from all over the world. It's funny because despite the cultural differences we all have one thing in common - the love of alcohol.

Admittedly, the drinking has been quite often but not really THAT crazy. Anyway, now it is time to knuckle down as I had found a job! Not just a job either, like a proper job that I was going for - with an Australian Search Engine. They're known as Sensis.

To cut a long story short I am very happy after all of my countless reservations of not being able to find a job have been squelched in one foul swoop. Also, all of my worries of hostel life have diminished with the wise choice of the Lords Lodge. It really is wonderful here and I get on with just about everybody.

First day at work tomorrow so I will have some tales to tell. I have been taking more pictures and I will get them all uploaded to Flickr.

Wednesday, 3 September 2008

Doing the Melbourne Shuffle...

So I'm now in Melbourne, residing in the charming district of Prahran. The hostel is very accommodating and I've said hello to a few people before locking myself away in my room for my internet fix and to update a few days worth of Blog!

The flight from Singapore was a breeze compared to the first half. I was sat next to two Japanese girls (Emi & Yumi) and was helping them with their English and they helped me with my Japanese. It made for an interesting flight and we've exchanged email addresses so we'll be meeting up in a couple of weeks!

Got the taxi after beating Melbourne customs and I'm now in the hostel. It's very nice with some rough charm that can only be obtained through the passing of backpackers. I've met a few people and we'll be going for a drink later at a pub. Hopefully this will give way to more conversation. Mix-up with the rooms means that I have a room to myself for a couple of nights which is a bit of a double edged sword - got the peace and time to myself but not speaking to anyone.

Pics attached are of the hostel and the girls from the plane!

Flight Night

So, suddenly September 1st crept up on me and now all of a sudden 1st became 2nd and now I’m in a Singapore airport terminal! Over halfway there now as the first leg of the journey is way longer than the second. I had the luxury of a window seat, which wasn’t nearly as luxurious as I had assumed. However, I was sat next to a lovely lad for the journey and we had a good natter so it was all good. Vietnamese guy named “Dan” – I can only presume Dan is not his real name. Nonetheless he was a good travel partner. Following a firm hand shake and well wishes we parted way in the departure lounge as he continues onward to Vietnam.

The Airport - as far as airports go it’s immaculate. There’s even free internet, albeit in 15 minute intervals. There’s (allegedly) free Wi-Fi but I’ve been running around in circles now for about 15 minutes following various steps and I’m no better off.

Apparently there’s a free tour of the city but to be honest I am so tired and sweaty that I’d rather lounge around in a chair. Soon enough I’ll be out of battery and then I’m on to book entertainment as I am sans a Singapore plug.

Just finished my large caramel latte and it has made me feel sick. I always overdo it on the coffee. Where’s self discipline when you need it.

I shall next be updating from Melbourne. Hopefully after some sleep.

P.S. There is the world’s largest 1080p HD Plasma display here and I hadn’t even noticed. Shame it’s just some second rate Singapore soap opera on.

The Last Supper

Last night in beautiful England was spent with my family. I wouldn’t have wanted it another way. We hit our usual Indian feeding hole (if that’s a term?) the Royal Bengal in Shifnal. None of us actually finished our meals which I’m sure was a combination of gargantuan portions and each of us feeling a little bit sick about the impending departure. Also, after the meal my mom thought it would be nice if she flicked us all with water from a bunch of drenched flowers, which was nice – see attached action shot.


We’ve all been a bit teary and the anticipation has been borderline unbearable. I guess I’m not as emotionally bulletproof as I had originally thought. Said goodbye to the Tortoises, the Pug, The Dalmation, The fish(es) and we hit the road to London.


Heathrow was killer. Not the good kind either. It literally felt like part of my heart was ripped out when we said goodbye. Not knowing when you’re going to see somebody again can do that, let alone when it’s your parents and sister.


I’m sure I’ll be made to feel at home when I reach Melb.s