Hello Sydney

It was a 9 hour flight and arrived at 11.40 OZ time (9hours ahead of UK) As we approached the airstrip I could see the Opera house and the Bridge - they looked smaller than I imagined. The the plane landed and the airstrip was right next to a strip of water and then it crossed over a main road as I could see the cars driving down into an underpass. - Bizarre again!!

The taxi to my hotel was costly and the hotel I booked didn't appear brilliant as a first impression but now I've settled in (and faffed) have decided it will do for the moment - it's clean, not too expensive and is located in a community type location. I got internet access this morning in the library - it cost 1 dollar to join and internet access is free so I'm now a fully fledged member of the community. There's a launderette close by and lots of shops and places to eat. The bus stop is right outside the hotel and I've bought my cheap ticket so I can get around easily - much cheaper than taxis.

Sydney is probably a lot like london and yesterday I walked from the hotel all the way to the harbour where the Opera house and Sydney bridge are. It took me about an hour but I got to get a feel for the place even though my little legs were somewhat tired by the time I got back. There I was in my thin trousers and t-shirt wondering why everyone else had jumpers and their coats on - it was a sunny day but as I walked on I realised how cold it actually was compared to Thailand. I swiftly bought a hooded top at a cost of 3 pounds so a bargain and a life saver.
I also popped into the 4 seasons hotel which looked very grand to see if they had any cheap rooms - I could get a suite that overlooked the harbour sights for 500 dollars (250 pound per night) - Decided to pass

On route I stopped to listen to the Salvation army playing and then saw a statue of Queen Victoria. The Opera house and Bridge are quite a sight and I've explored them today but will tell you about that in my next blog.

Was very tired at the end of the day but had a look at some of the information I picked up - there's loads to see and do but I'll have to plan my days.

Laura - meant to mention that this is shoppers paradise - thousands of shops and lots of designer stuff - very much like London.

That's all for now. I'm sure I won't be bored here - broke but not bored - its definitely London prices here

Love Sue.xx