Even though the plane departs at 11.15 we needed to be at the airport NLT 8.30 to check in. We got up at 6.00 and got organised, headed to our favourite coffee shop in Darlinghurst and ended up being in line with Marcus Graham the actor. Got to the airport just after 8.15 and then remembered the Sydney Airport Xmas madness. Have to say the smart gates when working are very efficient. Spent an hour in the QANTAS club (it was packed). First leg QANTAS 8 hours to Si...

Sunday we drove to Sydney and checked into the Hilton. We have stayed here before and enjoyed our stay. Had a stroll around Darling Harbour and dinner before early night. On Monday decided to get the ferry to Manly and have lunch. The weather was actually cool and blowing a gale. We still sat outside on the ferry and I always get a kick out of seeing Sydney Harbour. Cruised past the old Maritime School Mosman, Georges Heights, Quarantine Station on to Manly. Had ...

41700km flown (business class) 1500km driven in Ireland, 3500km driven in USA, 6 weeks of dining out breakfast, lunch and dinner and living out of a suitcase but had a fantastic time. Some places will be in my memory forever, some will be remembered as just ok, Absolutely loved the Troubles Tour Belfast, Melon Head northern most point in Ireland, Louisiana Swamp Tour (the best), Laura Plantation Tour, Dealy Plaza, Houston NASA, New Orleans and Gracelands. Several...

Great start, we have been allocated 1A and 1C for the first leg. Two hours in Perth then about 8 hours to Hong Kong. Spent a few hours in the Qantas Business Lounge and had a few beers while waiting to board. Flight to Perth was fine, great food. Two hour stop over in Perth, enough time for a bit of duty free and a few more drinks in the lounge. The great thing about airline lounges (apart from the free drinks) is the ability to have a quick shower. Felt refreshe...