Got up reasonably early (like 10??) in Christys place. Rushed out to buy coffee (mandatory these days) and flowers for Christy as a thank you for having us over. The break from the hostel was much appreciated - private space and all that.

We were picked up by Chris at 11 sharp - according to Christy, he's never late - and today he did not disappoint. We then started our grand tour of Sydney in his Suzuki Vitarra. As he's self employed, he had given himself the day off... Hence the impromptu tour.

First off we confirmed our names to the Coogee beach hotel, a xmas present from Chris to us and Christy & Sarah. It looks seriously lush... we are very lucky he's treating us for xmas like this! Next was lunch with Chris overlooking Coogee beach, the place where he fishes. Strong political chat was had, mostly about China's relationship with Australia, and learning about how Chris mainly employs backpackers.

After a seafood lunch, Chris then showed us his fishing club, letting us in to talk fish. The president of the club (a pilot with Jetstar) was already out in the water, but gave us some sound advice about Cairns when he returned.

After walking up and down Coogee (a really, really lovely beach), Chris drove us to Gordon's bay (where he has access to the Lifeguard Pavillion), Bronte beach, Bondi beach, The Gap (where many ppl take their lives jumping off the beautiful cliffs), and Watsons bay where we had a refreshing drink.

Finally, he drove us to the RV site in Botany, which was closed, oops, before dropping is off at the hostel.

The evening was free pizza at the hostel, metro to King's Cross for cake from a late night bakery, and then a drink at a bar with free WIFI (wifi is REALLY hard to find here!)

Back to the hostel for the night. It was like the zoo with the snoring. The man above me in particular sounded seconds from deaths door. His wife kicked him out because of the noise?? This is going to be a terrible nights sleep....

AF