M-whY

I checked out of Memcha's five star hotel and got busy planning the next leg of my trip. I had spent about a week in Sydney, and though there was plenty more to do, I felt like I wanted to move on. At first, the plan was to take the bus down to Melbourne, stopping along the coast for a couple nights, and after spending a day on the Great Ocean Road, board a train to Adelaide. But since I'm already in this part of the world, why not visit Tasmania too? That's the beauty of travelling alone. Plans can change on a whim. I got online and booked a flight to Tasmania, round trip, for only $160 AUS ($1 AUS = $.80 US). I placed a couple phone calls to the bus and train companies to reschedule my rides. Just like that, Tasmania was on my itinerary.

Manly, along with Bondi and Coogee, make up Sydney's most visited beaches. I had already seen Bondi, and though I wouldn't have minded spending another day there, I thought I'd give Manly a visit. I walked down to Circular Quay and bought a ferry ticket. For half an hour, we were out on the water, where again I took pictures of the coathanger and opera house. Despite windy conditions, the waters were calm, and I didn't get seasick. After disembarking, I just followed the crowd, across the Corso, to Manly Beach.

Bondi and Manly had their differences. At Bondi, any sort of physical activity on the sand is prohibited, while volleyball games and frisbees are common at Manly. Manly also seemed to have a lot more older people. I only had a small sample of each, so my reviews are probably not the most accurate, but I have to say, I liked Bondi better. My opinion is probably biased by the fact that it happened to be windy at Manly, making it bit uncomfortable sitting on the sand. And there weren't as many 'beach bums'.

Like the day before, I started heading back when the shadows began stretching onto the beach. I stayed at the YHA back in town, and paid a premium for it. Hostels that are part of YHA network usually have much nicer facilities and are sited at convenient locations. I had an early bus to catch the next morning, and it was important for me to be close to the station.

I hung out in the TV lounge a bit before returning to my room and falling asleep. A full day's work, a little TV, then bedtime. Just like they rest of y'all.

Thanks to everyone for their support and comments! Knowing people are reading keeps me motivated to continue the updates!