Here is some time-lapse photography for you.
At Columbus Airport Tuesday AM
At Melbourne Airport ~34 hours later. . .
Leigh Ann, "Dad, you look surprisingly good". Me, "I'm just glad to be off the airplane!"
Flight from LA arrived at Sydney. You have heard of the Sydney Opera House, right?
See that white structure, center left? Well that's not it.
We circled the bay just south of the one with the Opera House so didn't get a chance to see it.
My flight schedule got jumbled from the start. Flight leaving Columbus to Chicago was delayed and ruined the connections so they rerouted me through Los Angeles. I flew into Sydney and Robin flew into Aukland. Then we both arrived Melbourne within about 90 minutes of each other. As I cleared customs the agent pointed me to a doorway that seemed like an elevator door. When the door opened there was a wall of people waiting - 99% of whom were disappointed that it was me. Ahh, but there were two that were happy and waving.
Driving into Melbourne we got our first look at the city. It is a very attractive, modern city. Clean with somewhat of a cosmopolitan flavor. I would say it makes me think of Montreal, but I've never been to Montreal. :) We relaxed a bit then did a little walking tour of the immediate area including a large very nice park alongside a river that goes through the city. We sat and watched bunches of kids rowing while their coaches called instruction from the side. Activities like this are organized around clubs rather than schools evidently. As tired as we were, Leigh Ann was right in her suggestion to get out and about, stay up until late and get the jet lag shifted as much as possible.
I definitely know that I am not in Kansas, anymore. The apartment is neat and has very high ceilings with gigantic windows. Leaving the windows open for ventilation acts as very effective sound collection technique for the streetcars, car horns, motorcycles, police sirens and trash trucks. Something like a clothes dryer full of random car parts if you can imagine. Even with ear plugs, I woke up frequently laughing, thinking to myself - you've got to be kidding. The street is narrow and the sound must be concentrated. I'm sure I will quickly get used to it - I just hope that I can sleep ok when I go home and it is quiet.
A few random observations.
It's not Melbourne - its Melbun
Very strange to follow behind a car with only the driver in it. Looks like the car is driving itself.
Its not ketchup - its tomato sauce.
I just love the accent
Seems incredible that you can fly halfway around the world in one go but given that, 14 hours in an economy class seat is just simply painful. Ibuprofen is my friend.
Left Tueday AM and after about a day and a half of traveling arrived in Melbourne Thursday around noon while it is still Wednesday in Ohio. Not only that but I think the sun comes up in the wrong place here. More on that later.
No comments:
Post a Comment