Week One

Well the first week of school has definitely flown by and it's almost time for next week.

Thursday morning's breakfast event was much more subdued than the event the day before. I arrived half an hour in, yet there was almost no one around. I picked up some pancakes, a hash-brown and some juice and ate at one of the 5 small tables. There was also toast and fruit and eggs that had yet to be cooked, but I decided to move on as some others were just starting to come join in. I only had one class that day, but my Swedish friend and another Swedish girl she had met were going to go have lunch so I joined them in one if the Student Unions cafeterias.

Friday I headed down to my one class in the morning and was recognized by a local girl also in the class heading down the stairs too. I found a seat next to her in the packed lecture hall and had a first lecture for that class. The lecturer provided us with a handout of what would be covered that class, and we didn't even get halfway through. An hour after the class had finished I headed towards the geography building as the geography school was hosting a BBQ. My Swedish friend also showed up, and we were able to talk to a handful of other local geography students and lecturers. It was a good opportunity to meet many locals, but unfortunately the majority of people who showed up worked in the building as either a lecturer or in the office. The few students who did come were mainly first years although many of them had taken a gap year(s) and were about my age and even older.

After the BBQ, we headed to the Science Library (one of the three UTAS libraries on campus) and loaded up our student cards as printing anything costs money and can be deducted from your ID card. I tried asking locals if they also all used the school printers, and it appeared that most did. However at 12 cents a page it definitely will add up if you are printing large assignments.

Spot the Parrots!

Nearly everyday this bird is found checking out these dying flowers

I went to bed early Friday as Saturday morning was the day of the "Race across Hobart" event I had signed up for. We met outside the Student Union Building at 8:30 am on Saturday. Although the event was for all international students and new students, everyone except for 3 of us were from Asia....well one girl said she was from Sydney. We were broken up into groups of about 5 and there were 7 teams, my team being number 6. My group members consisted from a girl from Malaysia, two brothers from Singapore and another guy from Singapore. Apparently there is a standing joke that Malaysians and Singaporeans are enemies, however we all got along well. As the two brothers were both first years, the other two group members were our team leaders being the most educated on the Hobart community.

The first challenge was to complete a Sudoku puzzle which allowed you to receive your first clue. Our clue led us to Salamanca Square, where the market was taking place. At a Salmon Shop we completed our simple task before getting our next clue. This one was trickier as it suggested that the next spot would be in the same vicinity, however in actuality it was further along the harbour. We wasted about an hour going back and forth before phoning in to get a hint for the right direction. Upon finally arriving, the next challenge was to guess the flavours of ice cream (YUM!!) while blindfolded. We then head back to the market and found our next challenge at a pie shop. It involved using modelling clay to help guess as many objects as possible and we were told we had done very well.

Powerwalking to the city centre was necessary to take us to our next challenge. It took place out side a book store and was a simple matching card game. The next challenge wasn't far away at a hair salon. There we raced the clock to put in as many hair elastics into the Malaysian girl's hair as possible in two minutes. We were thrilled to hear we had put in the record-breaking number of elastics.

We then made our way to the buses catching a bus up to North Hobart. At a Malaysian restaurant (recommended by the locals) we role-played a skills game of letting people cross the "river" with certain restriction involving who could use the boat and who could be left with who. We were once again told we had the fastest time. Walking down the street a bit we stopped outside an Indian restaurant and were told we needed to entertain our hosts before we could receive the challenge. At a loss of things to do, we each drew pictures of each of the two guys and presented them with our sketches. The challenge was to eat as many pappadums as possible in 2 minutes. We were given two attempts and told that we had once again scored the top score.

Our bus trip this time took us back to Sandy Bay where we did two challenges in Asian grocery stores either guessing the price of certain dishes or correctly determining the ingredients in a meal. Outside a bubble tea shop we each used a variety of implements to transfer rubber balls from one side to another. I was happy not to use the chop-sticks or a fork. Instead with my soup spoon I stretched between the group, collecting on one side and bringing it to the other so that the other members only had to barely touch the balls as they made their way across.

Our final instructions were to make our way to the Long Beach at Sandy Bay. In competition with only one group that we knew of, we decided to walk as fast as we could the 2 km down the road instead of waiting for the bus. In the final stretches the bus made its appearance so we hopped on to see the other group. Oddly they chose to get off early so we jumped off at the closer stop and ran to the meeting point to beat them. All the other groups had arrived, the first one having arrived hours ago (but they chose to drive to some of their challenges). Luckily for us, the day was not being judged on time but on how well you had done on your challenges.

As a huge group we walked back to the University for our snacks. Juice, chips and sandwiches were served in excess. They then began awarding prizes, and not too surprising, my group came in first! Everyone received gift vouchers although each group had different ones, but first place also came with a bag of mementos from the Salmon shop. A hat, water bottle, pen, key-chain, discount card, salmon cookbook and nutrition facts came out of the prize. From the gift certificates I received a free bubble tea, a haircut (I think...it doesn't actually say anything) and a $25 gift certificate for the Salmon Shop. Not a bad day overall!!

Requesting Your Opinion!!

This is totally not following the usual scheme of things and is more an impromtu thought.

Today I just got word from the International Advisor here, that there is a program on for students from North America studying in Australia. I think it is some sort of agreement between the Australian Government and its branches in the States. Any way, they are looking for these students spending between 3 to 12 months in Australia to write a blog and update it at least once a week.

As a benefit you can earn gift cards and participate in a Student Ambassador program...

I thought I might put the thought out there and see what you may think. I don't really want to loose the anonymity of the blog, but considering I'm already filling their requirements I think this could be a neat opportunity. Applications are due in March so I'll need to decide soon. The link is attached leading to the website, but in the mean time any thoughts?

A taste of O week

As mentioned it's O week at UTAS, as well as the first week of classes. As I'm only in three units, I am not committed to spending a lot of time at Uni, so for instance today I didn't even have any classes.

However, Monday was probably my busiest day. I headed down to school for a 10 am class, which didn't involve a lot of teaching but more an introduction to the 3 lecturers and the program. As it was a first year class, it was quite full and started off slow. I only have the lectures twice for an hour on Monday and Friday. There is a tutorial of 3 hours once a week, which I chose to have later on in the afternoon. It's a chance to have some one on one time with another set of instructors who reiterate what the lectures have been about.

An hour after my first lecture was completed and I had a chance to check out my email on the library computers, I went to my second year class. This class was quite a bit smaller, around 20 people, with 3 lectures a week and a 1 hour tutorial which is not necessary to attend as it is a chance to ask question or go over marked assignments but not put anything into practice. These lectures are quite interesting as one is a one on one class, the next is done over the internet as a video conference from the other campus and the third is also a video conference but this time done live from our end.  The lecturer came a little late the first day as he had driven down from the other campus in Launceston that morning. He tried to get into the subject but once again very little material was actually covered.

An hour after that class had finished, I attended the tutorial which was a bit more interesting. We did some odd activity involving tacking your picture up to a map where you felt you associated most. Then string was used to connect yourself to other locations you associated with.  In a small room with maps posted all along the inside, quite a mess of criss-crossing was made. Later we drew some sketch maps and then formed groups to nominate areas that fit in with world tours. This probably makes no sense...but it is rather hard to describe unless you take part. Anyway, it was a good way for me to meet some of the others in my class.

After this class, I headed to the student union area as an even involving cheap beer and "free pizza" was underway. I headed there but other than getting lost in a mess of students and tripping over pizza boxes on the ground...I didn't actually see any "free pizza" and didn't feel like drinking on an empty stomach not really recognizing or knowing anyone around either. So I headed home for the day.

Tuesday I had my earliest class at 9 am. It consisted of a two hour lecture held once a week. The class wasn't as big as my other first year class, but the aboriginal history class did seem to interest many female students and I noted a couple international students as well. We lightly touched on some actual class work but finished up by watching part of an aboriginal documentary. I also signed up for a tutorial to follow my Thursday class...however it doesn't start until next week.

Two hours after that lecture had finished, I went to my video conference lecture. The lecturer had  informed us the day before that it would start automatically two minutes before the class started and the only thing we may need to do would be to un-mute it. Normally he would be with us and watch another lecturer in Launceston..but today he was going to help out on the other end.  We all arrived in time, and found our seats..talking to one another before the video would start.... At the time the lecture should have begun, I looked up at the clock, made a comment to those next to me, and like many others continued talking and waiting. Ten minutes after with still no sign and no phone calls, we began to get a bit anxious..joking someone should fiddle around a bit. About 5 minutes after that, a couple people sitting closest to the projector and computer started pushing buttons and trying to dial into Launceston. Finally success as we managed to connect with the other class who had been able to see and hear us from two minutes before the lecture should have started!  However as the lecture drew close to the end, our projector shut off without warning and promptly ended the class for the day.

The O week activity of the day was the "Lifestyle Expo" where one could pick up their yearly planner and see some local businesses to check out offers or freebies. I picked up my planner and a couple bags of mostly junk, along with some Blockbuster rental deals, a wall calendar, and some other mildly useful information.

As my day had ended early, I went grocery shopping for the umpteenth time. There always seems to be a couple items that would be useful to pick up and making lots of small trips seems to be the only way to do it with a steep climb in between.

A large vessel thats been anchored here for the past couple days

So Wednesday I had a bit of a sleep-in, and then caught the bus to downtown Hobart. For $1.80 Uni student price, you are allowed to cross any zone, so virtually take any bus for 90 minutes from the time of ticket purchase. I headed to the Reject shop, a short walk from the final bus stop, and picked up some tuna and laundry detergent (a reject deal at only $2) and then went to Target for the cheaper bottle of body lotion. I headed back to the Uni stop with time on my ticket to spare. Since it was still early for the next O week activity, I watched some of the sad New Zealand news, made a lunch from left-overs and cooked up some rhubarb sauce for muffins I can make later this week.

Then it was off to the eventful "Clubs and Societies Day". I was smart this time and sent off a text to my two contacts, the Russian and Swedish girls. The Swedish girl replied shortly after saying she'd meet me there. I was very glad to have company as we shoved and pushed our way into the crowd. I wish I had pictures, the small area this is held in was soooo busy....because all the clubs use alcohol as part of signing up. The going deal seemed to be $10 gives a membership plus 6 beers or 4 UDL (United Distillers Limited with a range of drinks - either Vodka and passionfruit, lemon lime or orange). That being said, the later of these drinks seemed to be coming from the Engineering club so that was were we signed up. It didn't seem to matter which club you signed up for, and as there wan't a Chemistry or real science club around, Engineering was good enough. We then "donated" to the BBQ being run by the Student Union and received a "sausage" on a piece of bread!

As 6 pm drew near (the closing time for the clubs) we parted ways for the night. A message from my Russian friend who had missed out, had me leave home around 7pm and head toward Salamanca Place. We found a relatively cheap Italian eatery and shared a chicken and pesto pizza. Its definitely nice not needing to tip! I would guess that around 90% of the Uni population seemed to be out and about across down. Many of the bars and live music locations were completely full with lines out the door. As well, walking home we passed many Uni students still heading out for the night out. Tomorrow is a free breakfast brunch, aptly named "The Morning After Brunch" that I'm going to attend before heading to my 11 am class.

The controversial casino, looking pretty all lit up at night

And I would walk 189 steps....

Not a lot to report, but I'm a little bored so I decided to do some writing. Friday was rather boring and instead of attending any useful seminars I helped my Russian friend sign into her classes. I did  make it to the BBQ rather early before most people had arrived. I found it funny that the burgers were served with regular sandwich type bread instead of buns. There were also sausages or wieners being served...but again no buns for them. Alongside was a bowl of salad...well lettuce tomatoes and cucumber but I didn't see any dressing so it went in my sandwich burger. The BBQ really wasn't run very well from my perspective. I noticed many people with huge plates of food, it seemed this was feeding everyone in their home and the BBQ had barely started. As well, many people were going back for seconds before the majority of people had even showed up. At least I had something this time though. I also grabbed an orange from the untouched fruit pile, as I needed the peel for a recipe I have yet to make.

TRU and UTAS

I was recognized a bit by some of people at the same table set-ups, but not everyone was back, and I didn't make it to the rock climbing club again. I did manage a tour of the newly upgraded "Morris Miller Library" which is soon to be open 24/7 with use of a pass-card. Earlier I had noted the pathetic times of the library closing at 6 pm weekdays and not open at all on the weekend. That will be a nice upgrade. I thought I had missed a mildly important session for one of my classes but realized later it was for a class that I was no longer enrolled in as it had just been a back up class.

Saturday I woke to rain...nearly all day. I wake up reasonably early, about 8:30 am as the light starts to come in through the high windows and hits my face. My original plan had been to walk down to the well known Salamanca Market near the city centre. However the heavy rain was just not that enticing to walk through. To do something anyway, I walked to the grocery stores and picked up a couple more items...I am constantly stocking up on things so that in the future lighter loads less frequently will do. Even with an umbrella and raincoat I still managed to need a change of pants, as well as dry off my arms and dry my damp grocery bag out. For another night I lucked out as the homeowner was making a stew for supper and offered me a bowl too! I ended the night watching a James Bond movie playing on TV, followed by a bit of Monster in Law just because I was in no hurry to go to bed.

UTAS in the rain (heading home)

A fancy looking home along the way

Today I woke up to a bright sunny day around 8 am, and headed into the kitchen to make "Kamloops Pancakes". I must admit that I had some trouble getting the stove to the right temperature and in the end just made enough for myself putting the batter with a "Help Yourself" sign in the fridge. From my flatmate, I had heard that there might be another market on in the city centre, and as the day was much nicer with only some light rain, I headed out in that direction.

I was expecting a call from her to meet up, but as it never came, instead I explored the "Mall" section. I found a rather cheap store - The Reject Shop- with a decent deal on canned tuna and other odds and ends. It's a bit of a walk so maybe busing it back next time would be good. As it was a Sunday, many shops were actually closed, and as I saw no signs of the other market I walked back towards home. I did end up going through "Battery Park" the historical older section of town. It was very pretty and many houses have lovely flowers as well as a nice view of the harbour. From there I walked to the grocery store section picking up another armload of things which will hopefully keep me going for the next couple of days until I run out of milk...or bread.

A house with a view in Battery Point

The harbour from Battery Point

The strong wind must have caused some of the ever pealing bark to come off and hit me in the head just as I was walking towards the stairs home. Not really an ouch! but a baffled surprised look that nobody was around to see. Then I climbed up...and actually counted the stairs. I think 189 steps from the bottom to the point I get off is correct(theres only a handful more and then its a steep paved slope to the next bend). Just to complain some more..they aren't even flat but angled up hill, and a little too long in length wise for a "normal step" and a little too much of a drop as well. But I can make it up them now without stopping for water or catching my breath like I've been running a marathon.

Any way, I have my first class tomorrow at 10 am, rather later than what I'm used to which is nice. It's on the "Global Geography of Change" and then I have a second year class on "Environmental Chemistry" at 12 pm. Thats all for a first day however there is the first of the O week activities ( I.E. O Week Barrel consisting of cheap beer, free pizza and music) which I might attend.

Orientation Week

From Tuesday until Friday, it's Orientation Week at UTAS. Not to be confused with the well known O-week that older grads fondly recall as the time they got "wasted all week"...that apparently is next week.
This Orientation week is geared towards new-comers, so first year Uni students or like me, international students coming to this university whether to complete a degree, or to come here for their full schooling experience, make the majority of student milling around on campus.

So to give a bit of an idea of what has occurred so far this week, I refer to my schedule which has guided me to all the important events so far.

On Tuesday, I headed to the International Student Centre as I thought that was required of international students. Instead there were probably about 30 people waiting for the doors to open...or rather someone to guide them and tell them what to do. Thats where I met my "friend for the day", a Russian girl who was coming to UTAS to do her entire degree. She had completed some of her high school up at Launceston and now wanted to do her university degree in Australia as well. Together we found out there really wasn't anything to do except attend the "International Student Welcome Session"...which was rather unexciting. A couple things I did notice was that the school attracts a lot of Asian students...and predominately Chinese...so actually most sessions were geared towards them. As well, all these sessions that I had mapped out a plan to attend one after the other were totally unnecessary as not only did most of them start anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes after the start time...but they also ended a good half hour before the claimed completed time.

Anyway, Tuesday I also took a tour of the campus...and my friend left me halfway through claiming her mother was bored in the hotel (but really I think those high heels were getting to her after all the climbs, the stairs and the ups and downs we had done). The tour was very brief and not overly informative..but I did learn that there are often free breakfasts Tuesdays, on the lawns of the student union building!

Also this night, my other flat mate came back and I got to talk to her. Oddly enough moments after meeting her, she and I had to catch a large spider that had taken over the table. I say large but she said its rather small compared to some she's seen...however this was the first she'd seen inside the house. She's very friendly and outgoing, and has already invited me along to all sorts of future get-togethers and adventures. She has plans to go camping with friends from her work and wants to Kayak down to an island, stay overnight and kayak back the next day. She then lent me a book on Tasmania which I've been flipping through trying to see where I might really want to go.

YIKES!! The "small" spider on table patrol

On Wednesday I went to some more rather boring Orientation events. Although I did sign up for a bank account, get my schedule sorted out, learn my email address and computer info, and get some idea about whats needed if I want to look for a job. I also went shopping and bought some baking supplies!! So guess what I did today?

Well, first was the general welcome announcement...and lots of people attended. This was mainly for all the new science students which was kinda neat to see. We also got a look at where everyone was from...apparently not many Canadians in the group...me and maybe one or two others. My friend of the day this time was from Sweden and she was also on exchange but for just one semester. After the welcome we broke up into sections of what your degree was focussed on and then got to choose what seminar topic to listen to. They were very class specific (or Unit specific as they say here) and the Profs talked directly about the class they were teaching in the upcoming semester. Since I have one first year science, one second year science, and one first year history class... this was only really useful for the first year science class as second years don't come to orientation and the history class I assume will be covered by the Arts faculty orientation-tomorrow (Friday) which I might as well attend.

Bunnies? Yup they're inhabiting this campus too!

After the one useful session I decided to take the tour of the building offered by some of the instructors. It was helpful (also offering a free BBQ coming up next Friday) but a little long as lunch was right after. Lunch (another free BBQ) was being offered on the other side of campus, so I thought I'd grab my student ID card on the way. That was rather quick to do but the BBQ had basically packed up by the time I got to it. So I checked out the booths and was nearly roped into signing up with a rock-climbing club! (pun intended) It's a cost of $15 (apparently this was a limited time offer but we'll see if it really has gone up $5 tomorrow) for use of their indoor climbing gym. Then $2 for renting a harness and shoes each time...overall not bad. They also plan trips to nearby areas so I'd be able to see a bit of Tassie...just pay to rent the climbing stuff and split petrol for the drive. It would be awesome to have a friend to go with...but I guess I'd be making friends there. I think I will probably sign up at tomorrows free BBQ...which this time I'm not missing!

After the BBQ there were two more sessions I could attend, but I didn't see a point as my classes weren't going to be covered by either. Instead I headed home and made some "Sticky Top Muffins" (using rhubarb on top) and "Rhubarb Sauce Cookies". The muffins were so-so but the cookies not bad, although you didn't even notice the rhubarb which I'm not sure is the point. I guess I should make dinner too...but with my odd lunch of muffins, cookies, and tea I'm not hungry anymore.

So to conclude, tomorrow I'm going to go for the Arts Orientation just so I can go to the one useful seminar on my history class, attend the BBQ and probably sign up for the rock-climbing group (eek!!). I believe I will also meet up with my Russian friend...maybe she'll join the climbing club too?! Then Orientation week will be over and it will be the first week of classes/ O-week...exciting!

Just another shot of the river from the street near the house

Hobart

Well I'm officially in Hobart and am almost ready to start Orientation week tomorrow.
But to recap the events leading up to now, I must include my final day in Melbourne.

So on the Saturday, I was informed that there would be a BBQ at my cousin's. So that afternoon at around 12, my Uncle and I walked the short distance up to his place. We had a very filling lunch of barbecued chops and sausages and two salads. My cousin and his girlfriend were planning on heading out to Mordialloc which is located about 20 minutes down the coast. We took the famous Beach Road which follows the coast line closely. In order to give me a slightly better tour, we stopped in the "rich" neighbored and got out to inspect the beach and the Beach Sheds that cost a fortune just to own.

Beach houses...really just small shacks that the rich own along this stretch of the beach

On the way back from Mordialloc, we took the more commonly traveled Nepean Highway, and this time passed by the city on towards a neighbourhood just north of Melbourne. I cant quite recall the name of the neighbourhood, and our reason for going was to visit some friends.

After heading back to St. Kilda, via the "Posh neighbourhood" and the Vietnamese shopping district, I arrived back in time for some movie watching. The overall day was quite nice and I definitely enjoyed getting out of the city and seeing things not along the Tram routes.

The next morning was my flight out of Melbourne and into Hobart. It was a quick little flight and really not that exciting as I was tired having stayed up late watching one movie and needed to get up by 6:15am to get to the airport in time for an 8:30am departure. A lady stood right near the exit gate holding a sign for UTAS which was nice and I took my bag to a bus waiting for us. There were two others on my same flight also being taken, although only one of them was registered for classes. A girl from another flight was collected too minutes later and we were driven to our accommodation. I chatted briefly with the couple sitting in front of me, but nothing of significance. As all three of them were heading to Christ College on campus, I was left alone after they departed together. The lady drove me right up to the door of my accommodation and even rolled my bag down to the door. She handed me a package including a soup mix, some tea and drink mixes and some milk, given to student not staying on campus just so if hungry there is something for them to have. Unknown to them was that I had packed up my leftover oatmeal and pasta so I did have some basic foods to survive on if needed anyway.

However luckily for me, the house owner said that he had been planning on making a roast chicken and some salad as a welcoming introduction to his house. I was shown my nice and large bedroom, just like the picture, and started to unpack and put all my things away. The other girl renting a room was still asleep when I arrived, and some time while I was either unpacking or talking on my computer, she left with her boyfriend so I have yet to meet her! The owner had gone to the store for some more items for dinner and thus never was able to mention the dinner plans.

While waiting for dinner I went for a walk around the area. Tasmania is incredibly hilly and I would even say a little mountainous. Close to the house on one side is a steep and very long set of stairs leading to the University. On the other side of the house is an entry into a little hiking park that takes you into the bush and making you feel quite alone and far from all the houses surrounding the area. I first walked down the stairs to the Uni and scirted the major building to be led to the base of the road the house is on. I then walked back to the park entry and wandered around the loop trail inside before finally making my way back to my new home.

From almost the bottom, the stairs that lead up from the Uni to my road...I climb these every day!

I helped a little with the dinner by getting some lettuce from the garden and then waited until the call of dinner time. The chicken was delicious and the salad had roast veggies in it for some extra zang. Desert to my surprise was even made, and included a chocolate cake with baked pears and a scoop of ice-cream! YUM!!
Needless to say, I went to bed nice and satisfied!

View of the river from the road near the house

This morning, I started to wake a little earlier as the light filters in through some high windows in the angular room. However I remained in bed for as long as I could sleep...about 8:30am...before getting up. Although it was a Monday today, the orientation was not taking place today as it was a holiday for Hobartians due to a "Wooden Boat Festival" and Regatta taking place in town. So around 10:30am I headed down to the nearest supermarket and picked up some more supplies. The walk back with one loaded down bag was treacherous and as I climbed the stairs, I had to stop more than once to catch my breath.

Looking back towards the city from the docks at the "tall ships" docked nearby

The street view out across the the harbor as the boats are leaving to head out to the river

I had noticed that due to the events in town, bus services were free today. Unfortunatelly I had no idea which buses ran by the house, so I headed down along the road hoping a bus would pass. Instead I walked all the way back to the shopping area, before stopping at a crowded stop with others planning on catching a bus. From there I caught a bus all the way to the last stop, which happened to be right next to the festival.

Many food stalls were set up and many, many people crammed the docks taking a look at the boats on display. There were also a couple informative tents set up so that one could get a better idea on how these boats are made, or look at miniature models.

A tall ship sand sculpture

I was very tempted to buy some fish and chips at one of the stalls, but as I had eaten before coming, I just couldn't work up enough of an appetite to buy anything. As the stalls started to close and the boats started to head out of port, I headed back to the bus area, as a better view could now be seen from the deck at home. I caught the bus back as far as the grocery area, and this time stopped at a different supermarket to pick up a couple more items I hadn't been able to carry the last time. With a lighter load I did much better on the walk home, although I wished I had known which bus would have taken me closer to the door than have to carry the groceries back up the stairs. Exhausted once more from the climb I had a bit of a nap before planning on making my dinner. However I have yet to work up an appetite so I may just have some cookies and tea, and watch the expected fireworks from the balcony instead.

Tram Shablam

I am pleased to report that I have conquered the infamous tram system of Melbourne.  But first I'll summarize my Tuesday.

So I had planned on venturing to the city and catching a Tram on Tuesday...however I chickened out. The closer I got to leaving the more I became unsure of. Its one thing to be in a place where everyone drives on the other side of the road, but definitely more complicated when trying to determine how to board a Tram, something I've never done before. What side of the confusing road barriers to stand on, how to pay and where, as well as what type of ticket is needed, which exact tram to take, how far to ride it, knowing the stop on the way back and what to do when you get there all became questions I wasn't sure I had answers for. So instead I decided to take a walk to the "lake" and ended up walking the 5 km around it as well.

St. Albert Lake

The entire time I walked, I was almost always near someone else. There was a constant source of power-walkers, runners or bikers passing me in both directions. Considering it was the middle of the day on a work week, I definitely have the impression that Aussies are fit. And why not, there are all most no hills and nearly every day has been so pleasant who wouldn't want to venture out doors.

After coming home, I finally got up once more to go buy a couple more groceries from the Coles Supermarket, a good 20 min walk away. I think I passed my exercise quotient for the day.

During my time at home, I decided to watch a couple YouTube videos on the tram system in melbourne. I also walked to the nearest 7-Eleven and purchase a day pass for the trams, to be validated when I was finally ready to catch my first tram. I also researched where I wanted to go, and looked for as many free activities I could do. This definitely helped me feel more confident in my ability to catch a tram...and not look like a fool.

So Friday I woke up earlier, made my breakfast as well as packed a lunch for me to take. I then exited and started heading to the tram stop junction that the metro website had suggested. As I neared the intersection which I hadn't walked to before...I had a hard time spotting where to go. To make things a little more hard, the intersection was not the usual four directions we normally have at home, but more a pentagon, with cars flying past in all sorts of directions. As I crossed the street and started heading back on the opposite side of the road, I noticed the sidewalk end, but a sign pointing down a ramp to a level below indicated I might be able to find the junction after all.

It led me to a definite stop for many trams, and I was lucky that the route 16 tram, which was one of the few I recognized was just coming up. It stopped and myself and the two others who had appeared hopped on the busy tram. Due to watching the videos, I knew where to use my met pass to validate it for the day, and then I was able to take a seat and blend in with the locals.

I rode the tram for about ten minutes and then along with many others, got out at the Federation Square stop. I then scurried across the street to the Visitors Information Centre and picked up some maps in case I got lost.

The impressive Flinders Street Station- a central railway station

There are two museums in Federation Square that offer free admission when no exhibitions are on.

Federation Square looking at the NGV Autralia

The Australian Centre for the Moving Arts was where I headed first. The girls in the front were busy chatting, so I followed the man infront, but he quickly disappeared. I then headed down the escalators behind two women to the bottom floor, still unsure of if I was supposed to pay. Oddly the escalator stopped moving as the woman in front got off, so I awkwardly walked the last couple steps.  When I got close to an exhibition, it looked like the Guard was collecting tickets or something, so I feigned a trip to the washroom and back tracked out of there.

Next up was the NGV Australia-National Gallery of Victoria, Australia. The friendly staff smiled as I entered so I asked if the exhibition was free and where to go. With an exhibition map in hand, I spent the next couple hours checking out indigenous art, paintings by immigrants to Australia as well as a large collection of self portraits. I was even allowed to take photos, which in museums can be a rare treat.

Indigenous Art Work

A self portrait painted by foot!

Nearly lunch time, I headed back out and was stopped by the sound of music twice. The first time coming from a choir group taping a number that they planned on sending to the flood victims in Brisbane. Then outside, a police group preforming well known Jazz tunes for those milling around Federation Square.

The Victoria Police Group preforming in the square

After wandering aimlessly for a bit, I caught a free tourist shuttle bus near the square. A couple stops later I hopped off near Carlton Gardens located beside the Royal Exhibition Building housing the Melbourne Museum. Not really in the mood to look through another museum, I walked around the gardens, and had the other half of my sandwich. I think these gardens seem to attract a lot of locals stopping by during their lunch break or just meandering  by on there way somewhere else.

The impressive looking Royal Exhibition Building

Catching the next shuttle bus, I head around the edges of town passing the University of Melbourne, the Queen Victoria Market (closed on a Wednesday), the Docklands areas (with lots of shopping) and back to near the beginning with the Royal Botanic Gardens. I hopped out one last time and headed towards the Shrine of Remembrance as it stood out greatly compared to the other small statues and landmarks. I was glad I did as I slowly made my way past the crypt and to the sanctuary, I was informed that in a couple minutes they would be reenacting the light ceremony.

The long cross-like pathway leading to the Shrine of Remembrance

By now I'm sure you are wondering what exactly the Shrine of Remembrance is all about. During the first world war Australia fought for Britian, and lost many soldiers. One in five never returned, and a huge number were bedridden. As many of the bodies were not to return home, Australians and mainly Victorians donated their money towards the construction of this Shrine. Its a beautiful building sitting on a bit of a hill, with an amazing view not to be obstructed from any direction. On the 11th of November a ceremony is held inside, where the light at 11am pours through a hole in the ceiling passing over a plate with the words "Greater Love Hath No Man" for a full eleven minutes.

To my delight, a guide chose to start up a tour after the ceremony, and a small handful of us spent the next hour and a half learning about all these interesting tid-bits of information. For instance, when Australians decided to move to Daylight Savings Time, this screwed up the ceremony, so now mirrors are place within so that the same effect may occur. However at 12pm the light no longer needs the mirrors and plays across the plate like it was meant to. As well, after WWII, Australians wanted something else to be set up, but due to height restriction so that a shadow isn't cast on the Shrine, it was decided that a giant cross pathway be made instead leading up to the Shrine.

The large cross built to honour those who suffered through WWII

There were many other interesting pieces of information I learned, and I would definitely recommend the tour to anyone else heading out this way.

At the end of the tour I headed down the hill, and caught another tram heading back to my home away from home. The tram ride home was easy enough and I didn't need to do anything except find a seat as my met pass was all ready validated and good for the rest of the day.

Taking a Walk-About

Today, left to myself and with much to explore, I went for a walk and picked up some groceries.
I started my day around 8:30 am..however I didn't exactly leave my bed. I picked up my computer to check for emails, and started talking to a friend for the next half-hour. Afterwards I showered and made myself some oatmeal for breakfast, sitting outside on the patio to enjoy the sun.

My breakfast nook, with Elliot posed for a picture

My walking route for the day

When I had cleaned up and made myself a snack for the road, I headed out in to the beautiful courtyard, and out  to the street (A). I walked down to the beach and found a spot to sit and admire the view (B). Since I didn't really have a destination in mind, I took my time and just enjoyed the sound of the birds, the waves, the chirping bugs and watched the many runners and walkers along the stretch of beach.

When I was ready to go, I meandered through the park and then towards the pier. It is famous for leading to the breeding ground of little penguins. I sat and watched the interesting swans and seagulls, not really expecting to find any penguins. (C) But as I headed to the end, an extremely browned man, who had been feeding the swans and swimming in the breakwater, pointed to the rocks and said "Happy Feet". Thats where I saw my fist penguin, squinting in the sun. I spotted another one nearby and snapped a picture of him too.

A cute little penguin squinting in the sun

Another penguin, also poking its head out

After the Pier I headed along the beach and stopped at a bench (D) to read a couple chapters of a book and snack on the bread I had packed. Then I headed to the Coles Supermarket, which I had searched online for the night before. The prices were much more reasonable, and I took my time checking out the deals before heading to the checkout with my items. The walk back was longer with a bag in my arms, but upon arriving back at the base camp, I was able to make myself a meal of pasta and satisfy my hunger.

A couple hours later I headed to the park across the way, and wandered from reading spot to reading spot, although I never made it to the lake. Although I'm sure my legs look very white, after taking off my shoes there was a clear line of "tanned skin". My nose also has reddened with the sun exposure, and the corners of my arms appear a bit more red too.

Tonight's dinner is at "Banff", a little pizza place with a deal on. For $5.50, I will be satisfied once more. I'm told tipping is unnecessary as often servers are payed around $22/hour. Thats extremely higher than the measly $8/hour most servers in British Columbia make!

Where did my Saturday go?

Well I made it!! I arrived safe and sound in Melbourne today.
Before anything too exciting happens, I though I'd sum up what has occurred to date.

So Wednesday was my last day at home. We head out around 12pm to Abbotsford and visited family that night. The next day we drove to the Tsawwassen ferry terminal and picked up my sister then went to Richmond to visit with family friends. I totally lost track of time, and couldn't believe I was actually leaving the next day.

So Friday arrived..kinda suddenly, and we head over to the Vancouver Airport. I wouldn't say it was a tearful goodbye...after all, I'll be in touch through skype, email, gmail talk and countless other means, but it was rather sad to say goodbye to all my family before heading into customs, and then onto my departure gate.

It was an Air Canada flight to LA, and about 3 hours long. It suddenly dawned on me as we started to pierce the low cloud cover, that I'd better say goodbye to Canada and the snow, as it would be the last time I'd be seeing in in quite a while. I sat next to a Hawaiian looking American, on his way to somewhere else in the states that night too. Although we didn't really chat on the plane ride over, we did dutifully wish one another well on the next flight.

Since my bag was checked all the way to Melbourne, when we got to the airport I followed the others down, but walked out the door into the dark but busy LA night. My free airport shuttle to the terminal on the other side of the airport was about a blocks walk away and just out of sight, but I head out in the direction I thought it was. It arrived quite soon, which was noted by the scrolling screen which announced the next shuttles arrival time. During the short ride to the other terminal, the other stops were clearly announced listing all the flights flying out of the other terminals. With my second boarding pass, I made it past the next round of security, and into the terminal, where I quickly found my gate...all the way at the end of the terminal.

LAX doesn't offer free internet..which sucks when you realize that a lot of other airports have this now. I pretty much spent my four hours lay-over sitting near the gate and reading. Before boarding, I decided to freshen up and put on my glasses too! There was a tonne of people in the boarding area...which is understandable since we were boarding a huge boeing.

Any-who..after I made it to the back of the plane and my seat...A lady beside me mentioned her husband was out looking for another spot, as he had thought he had an aisle but was actually in the very centre of the plane. He was apparently very claustrophobic..so being a good Canadian ;) I offered to exchange my row seat. She guessed my nationality but wasn't sure we'd swap in case he found a better more open seat. When it looked like they had found something, for a couple minutes myself and Jeff from Nebraska (imagine a blond gentle giant like huge man child) thought we'd be able to spread out across the four middle seats. No such luck, instead I sat between Jeff and Joan, the lady from Toronto who was travelling with her hubby to Oz to visit relatives. We had some nice conversations, and although my seating was close from ideal (as the gentle giant had control of one armrest and Joan was using the other) I still enjoyed the long flight over. Jeff we learned was travelling on a plane for his fourth time ever, to do some business in Sydney. He also mentioned he would later be heading to Dubai for some more business things. The couple from Toronto were very friendly and we chatted in-between snoozes about there plans to visit their family in Melbourne. It was definitely a crammed flight, so I should remember to pack my backpack in an overhead bin if I want to stretch out my legs.

Once we finally arrived in Sydney, those of us continuing on had to head through international transfer security and get back in the international section, while those departing us went an collected the baggage. We arrived early, and re-departed a couple hours later. This time the Toronto couple, who bought me a drink for my kindness, sat in a more roomier section so I sat alone in the four seats, in a much less crowded flight to Melbourne.  After we landed I breezed through Australian customs, and went to collect my bag. I managed to find the Toronto couple and said goodbye one last time before heading out to the arrivals section. Finding my relation wasn't to hard which was nice! My uncle, who I hadn't seen in years was still rather recognizable and he brought my bag to his car.

A view of Melbourne and the bay it sits at the top of

From there we drove to St. Kilda, the trendy part of town. I washed up a bit, had a cup of tea and then was introduced to the area through a nice long walk.

A shot of the courtyard near where I'm staying

That evening after having dinner near the complex, I checked out the IGA corner grocery store for some quick buys so that I'd be able to survive the next day. Unfortunately I bought less than I would have wanted to due to the rather high prices on almost everything.