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Well, that's it - the adventure is over. It would be impossible to convey how much I've learned and enjoyed in words.
My last blog came from Queenstown, New Zealand - prior to my first skiing trip. I'm happy to report that I am now a strong Level 2 skiier (the instructor's words, not mine!) and thoroughly enjoyed the experience! Unfortunately, the next day I was confined to my Queenstown bed with stomach flu, meaning a day off tour and a little bit of a struggle to get back up to speed for our last couple of days in the country. Nonetheless, we had a fantastic time in the land of the Kiwi and saw some things that just won't compare anywhere else on the planet.
But, if I'm being honest, I was looking forward to getting back to Australia having spent the first three weeks of the tour here. I never understood the fascination, but the reality is that the country does have a pull on you. Somebody said that "it's very similar to the UK, just warmer and done better!" It's a fair point.
Having flown in from Christchurch we spent three days in Sydney. What a city. Ben and Liz looked after us on day one at the Wallabies v France test match, while on day two I experienced my first AFL game - GWS Giants v Carlton. I think you need to witness a game live to 'get it' - I'm certainly intrigued to watch more. The final day allowed us to catch up with Lisa for breakfast before Von and I climbed the Harbour Bridge - a hugely invigorating and memorable experience, if a little scary at times!
So, on to my final stop and our last two days - spent in the charming and vibrant city of Melbourne. Here we took a tour of the world famous MCG, but just as exciting was hunting the mysterious bars and pubs of the uber-chic Melbourne underworld. Basically, if you can see the place from the street then it's not worth going to; the best bars have secret passwords or you need to hunt them above shops, down alleys etc. Sounds crazy, but it's true. It's a must for anyone visiting Australia.
All good things must come to an end, so it is said. That puts me here, in Perth airport, with a Jim Beam and Coke, awaiting my flight to Dubai and then Heathrow at 6am. Today has been a terrible wrench - leaving the country but most of all leaving Von who I've been so fortunate to spend this wonderful experience with. I hope you've enjoyed my updates and maybe it'll encourage you to step out of the comfort zone and do something similar in the not too distant future.
MD
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