Sydney

Arrived in Sydney after 9 hour flight from Hong Kong. It was pouring rain. The plane parked up at the cargo terminal & we were then bused to arrivals. Then there was a disorganised bun-fight to get through immigration. Not an auspicious start to my first visit. Things could only get better and they did.
We met up with Anna's sister Cynthia & her husband Bob at Central station ( nothing like Centraal in Amsterdam), very quiet & civilised (take a look at the photo). We are staying at Cynthia's daughters appartment in Neutral Bay. Amazing views over Sydney Harbour & the bridge. I have a view to die for from my bed (again see the photo!!!!!).
Public transport is great. Buy an Opal card & the maximum charge for one day is Au$15. There is also a deal that after 8 paid rides or Au$60 per week all additional trips in the week are free but we need to check this out.
It's a very outdoor orientated life here (not surprising given the usual lack of rain). The day we arrived was an exception - it must be my Irish blood attracting the rain clouds!
Anna knows Sydney very well & has been brilliant hauling my sorry ass round the Opera house, botanical gardens, art gallery, over to Manley twice. The fish & chips are great. We pass under the bridge on all our ferry trips.
We have tickets for Matilda, the musical based on the book for this evening, so I'm looking forward to this. The lyrics are written Tim Minchin.