Day 28 Oct 25 - SYDNEY, NEW SOUTH WALES AUSTRALIA!!!!

Friday, Oct 25: We were up early, especially early since we didn't realize we had another hour turn back on the clock last night! Oh well, it gave us the extra time needed to have a dining room breakfast on board, our first. I don't usually eat breakfast but the cinnamon rolls were delicious. By the time we were done we could disembark, even a little early. We aren't exactly sure where our hotel is, even though is close by, we opted for a taxi. Maps on my phone are still not working well and with our one especially heavy suitcase we didn't want to walk. It was a quick taxi ride! 

The Rendezvous Hotel was gracious to store our luggage, give us maps, and furnished a Ho-Ho bus brochure. It is close walking distance to the bus stop so perfect choice for us.  An Aussie friend sent me a message on FB saying she was sorry we arrived on a very hot day. Well, that is no surprise for us. We seem to attract the hottest days ever! We did the "Red" route today, passing many beautiful landmarks, though we zoomed past the Opera House with barely a glance. We didn't get off until back to The Rocks near our hotel. We just don't have the energy for a lot of walking today. However, we really enjoyed walking around The Rocks area and there is a market on Friday so we enjoyed that and with a small lunch stop at dare for an Avocado Smash Board and later a wine stop in a shady, outdoor Italian cafe Caminetto The Rocks. We had a nice conversation with a friendly man from London, it is nice to meet such outgoing people with interesting things to talk about. He gave us some pointers. by now he is in the sky, heading home. After the wine we tried a combo Gyoze plate at a nearby booth. Yum!

Zooming by the Bridge and Opera House

dare - Avocado Smash Board

Caminetto The Rocks

BBQ at the Rocks 

Kangaroo, crocodile, emu, beef, 

lamb, chicken, Lamb, chicken, salmon, 

Haloumi, veg, prawns, octopus. I can't think 

about eating a Kangaroo - too cute!

Now we're back and checking into our hotel. What delightful staff. Our room is ready and we are not disappointed. It is a studio room, so we have a little kitchen with a basic utensils, fridge, microwave, hot pot, and even stove burners! This was the same prices as other hotel rooms I checked. We are really very happy with the location. There is a pool and a hot tub and a complementary cappuccino machine. What more could we want? We have collapsed and I even took a nap (not unusual for John but it is for me!). I'm sure there is more to say but I have this done for now so I will post it (at home time)! 

ps: They have Australian Amazing Race here, starts in 3 days! Some of our kids watch our version at home.