Yesterday, after a few days messing around in Hout Bay, I decided to go and see what was going on in Cape Town. There is a hop-on hop-off bus that does a big lap of the peninsula which has a bus stop only just down the road, so I wandered down there at about 12.30, with the intention of hopping-off in Cape Town, doing a big of wandering about and shopping (at my own leisure), before hopping-back-on a few hours later in the afternoon.
The bus came. I hopped on.
If you saw that episode of the Apprentice where they had big red double-decker tourist buses that toured around London (you know, the one where Baggs the Brand started a fight with Chris Bates. And where Stella did a sing-a-long on her bus. And where Liz got fired. Still haven't got over that awful decision. Disgrace), you'll have an idea of the bus that was used. However, instead of having Jamie standing at the front of the bus telling me how the Thames is the second biggest river in London, I was given some red earphones, which plugged into the side of the bus. This had a running commentary of our journey, with important landmarks to look out for, and general interesting information for me to know. And it was really rather good.
It was interesting to see for myself what Mr Lesser had taught us about South Africa in History (and too hear about all of the other stuff that he didn't / I slept through) about apartheid and such, and just the history of Cape Town in general. It's a really fascinating place, and after I'd hopped off (and later hopped back on again) at the Waterfront, I listened attentively to my tour guide for the rest of the journey (apart from the bit where we went round some botanical gardens, I had a nap during that bit).
After getting back, there was a 'games night' fundraiser at Georgia's old school, so we went along. Sadly I didn't win the raffle, but it was a good night and it seemed to raise a lot of money for the school. After all that excitement, I was just about awake enough to stay up and see England win the rugby in Cardiff. Great stuff.
Until next time, Will
Saturday, 5 February 2011
Thursday, 3 February 2011
Washed Hair and Work
There haven’t been many blogs over the last couple of days. Mainly because I haven’t really been doing much over the last couple of days.
Probably the biggest thing to write home about was me getting a haircut. I decided to wander down to the local hairdressers for a couple of reasons; 1) because my hair was getting too long (standard reason for getting a haircut) and 2) because when my hair is in the sun for ages, it goes quite ginger. And it was really getting to be quite a coppery hue. So I was booked in for an appointment at the local hair emporium.
What can I say about my haircut experience? Not much. Although after years of skinheaded blokes simply getting out the razor and clippers to my head, it was nice (and a bit of a surprise) to have my hair washed, conditioned and dried, before the lady bought out some scissors. Shock horror. And I even got a wash and dry after my hair was cut. I think that’s the first time I’ve ever been involved in someone else washing my hair since I’ve able to do it myself. But it was nice, and my hair looks OK.
In other news, I’ve got a job. Nothing too exciting, but it keeps me busy during the day and earning a bit of pocket money. I thought that one of the attractions of getting a job would be going out and meeting new and interesting people, but after my first morning at the office, I was told that I could actually do my job from home. Which means I don’t have to dress up (I don’t actually have to dress at all) and I can wake up whenever I like. Which suits me fine.
This hasn’t really been a massively exciting blog. Sorry about that. Maybe I’ll do some more interesting stuff soon. Until then, Will
(The sad thing is that the most exciting thing I've been doing recently has been dominating the Champions League on Football Manager. Go on FC Utrecht!) (No, I don't know why I'm them either).
Probably the biggest thing to write home about was me getting a haircut. I decided to wander down to the local hairdressers for a couple of reasons; 1) because my hair was getting too long (standard reason for getting a haircut) and 2) because when my hair is in the sun for ages, it goes quite ginger. And it was really getting to be quite a coppery hue. So I was booked in for an appointment at the local hair emporium.
What can I say about my haircut experience? Not much. Although after years of skinheaded blokes simply getting out the razor and clippers to my head, it was nice (and a bit of a surprise) to have my hair washed, conditioned and dried, before the lady bought out some scissors. Shock horror. And I even got a wash and dry after my hair was cut. I think that’s the first time I’ve ever been involved in someone else washing my hair since I’ve able to do it myself. But it was nice, and my hair looks OK.
In other news, I’ve got a job. Nothing too exciting, but it keeps me busy during the day and earning a bit of pocket money. I thought that one of the attractions of getting a job would be going out and meeting new and interesting people, but after my first morning at the office, I was told that I could actually do my job from home. Which means I don’t have to dress up (I don’t actually have to dress at all) and I can wake up whenever I like. Which suits me fine.
This hasn’t really been a massively exciting blog. Sorry about that. Maybe I’ll do some more interesting stuff soon. Until then, Will
(The sad thing is that the most exciting thing I've been doing recently has been dominating the Champions League on Football Manager. Go on FC Utrecht!) (No, I don't know why I'm them either).
Tuesday, 1 February 2011
Rumours, Speculation and Helicopters
I spent this morning getting acquainted with Hout Bay. I took a stroll from the estate where I’m staying (when I say estate, don’t think sink estate. It’s seriously nice) down the road to the town. After having a look in a few shops and getting some money out of the bank, I went for a walk on the beach. It’s really nice, with white, soft sand, so no doubt I will be frequenting it many times. On my way back, I stopped off in the local coffee house for a chocolate milkshake and bacon sandwich. One good thing about South Africa (especially compared to the weak pound to dollar ratio in Australia) is that things are sort of cheap – so it was only a couple of quid. Also handy is the exchange rate. I never really got my head around the rate between the sterling and the Aussie dollar (there were one and a bit dollars to the pound), so I was mainly going on gut instinct and guess work. This often meant I ended up getting it wrong and spending far too much on things (hence paying about £9 for half a pint of cider), but here it’s nearly 10 to 1 – so if something is 100 rands, it’s about 10 quid. (It’s actually a bit less - about 8ish, but dividing by 10 is much easier mentally).
After getting home, I turned my attention to Transfer Deadline Day. It’s a day in the footballing calendar that everyone looks forward to, and while the last few have been a real let down, today’s has been brilliant. Rumours, speculation and helicopters meant that BBC’s Live Text was being followed hawkishly. Normally at home I would be glued to Sky Sports News (makes a change…) so I looked to the South African equivalent – “Sports Blitz”. As I’m sure you’ll know, SSN on TDD (Sky Sports News on Transfer Deadline Day)devote all 24 hours to it; have reporters at every training ground, Jim White going into overdrive, Andy Burton pretending he’s talking to all of the agents, and Georgie Thompson. While SSN repeat stories every hour (with new ones every now and again when stories break), Sports Blitz evidently don’t. They have 15 minutes of news, which includes 10 minutes about the South African league, 5 minutes about the Women’s Hockey World Cup, and 4 minutes of adverts. That leaves 1 minute every news cycle for transfer gossip every quarter hour. And it’s the same transfer “news” (this hasn’t updated once throughout the day) – there’s a video of Robbie Keane scoring the scrappiest goal ever, and a video of Paul Konchesky running onto the pitch. Two very minor transfers in the grand scheme of things. Nothing about Torres, Carroll, Suarez, Aguero, Forlan or Adam. The 15 minute cycle then repeats after the adverts (word for word), so I’ve now seen the goals from Ajax Cape Town’s 2-0 win on Saturday about 40 times. And they’re not even that good. There’s an interview with the Platinum Stars coach, who says he was pleased with the boys performance, and then more adverts. For someone who’s used to the great moving and updating coverage of SSN, Sports Blitz has let me down. Luckily, I had my man in the field (dad) who was keeping me posted via a series of texts. And Chris Bevan on the BBC Live Text.
Continuing the football theme, I made my South African league debut this evening. The parents (and older kids) from the local school meet up every Monday and Thursday evenings, so I was brought in as a highly touted signing for tonight’s game. For what could be seen as a bit of a kickabout was really hard fought and competitive, and by the end I was absolutely knackered (although my fitness levels, which leave a lot to be desired at the best of times, haven’t been helped by two months of doing absolutely no running about). My performance? Well, despite the fitness issues (not helped by blazing heat, even at 6pm) and the not great footwear (£2.50 plimsolls from the Australian equivalent of Primark), I had a couple of nice touches in midfield, and set up a couple of goals. However, I did miss an a bit of a sitter - I laid off the ball to the left wing and burst into the middle. The ball was flighted in, and with a free header about 5 yards out and the goal gaping, I missed the ball with my head and ended up shouldering it wide. Our side lost 7-4, but I look forward to getting involved and playing more over the next few weeks. Although I will be looking to get more appropriate footwear for next time!
So that was my football heavy day – and to all of my Liverpool supporting friends, can I just say
He’s now a blue he was a red, Torres! Torres!
He hates the Kop he loves the Shed, Torres! Torres!
He used to go out on the rob, but now he’s got a proper job
Fern-an-do Torres, Chelsea’s number nine!
Na na na na na na na na na na, na na!
Na na na na na na na na na na, na na!
Na na na na, na na na na, na na na na na na na,
Fernando Torres, Chelsea’s number nine!
After getting home, I turned my attention to Transfer Deadline Day. It’s a day in the footballing calendar that everyone looks forward to, and while the last few have been a real let down, today’s has been brilliant. Rumours, speculation and helicopters meant that BBC’s Live Text was being followed hawkishly. Normally at home I would be glued to Sky Sports News (makes a change…) so I looked to the South African equivalent – “Sports Blitz”. As I’m sure you’ll know, SSN on TDD (Sky Sports News on Transfer Deadline Day)devote all 24 hours to it; have reporters at every training ground, Jim White going into overdrive, Andy Burton pretending he’s talking to all of the agents, and Georgie Thompson. While SSN repeat stories every hour (with new ones every now and again when stories break), Sports Blitz evidently don’t. They have 15 minutes of news, which includes 10 minutes about the South African league, 5 minutes about the Women’s Hockey World Cup, and 4 minutes of adverts. That leaves 1 minute every news cycle for transfer gossip every quarter hour. And it’s the same transfer “news” (this hasn’t updated once throughout the day) – there’s a video of Robbie Keane scoring the scrappiest goal ever, and a video of Paul Konchesky running onto the pitch. Two very minor transfers in the grand scheme of things. Nothing about Torres, Carroll, Suarez, Aguero, Forlan or Adam. The 15 minute cycle then repeats after the adverts (word for word), so I’ve now seen the goals from Ajax Cape Town’s 2-0 win on Saturday about 40 times. And they’re not even that good. There’s an interview with the Platinum Stars coach, who says he was pleased with the boys performance, and then more adverts. For someone who’s used to the great moving and updating coverage of SSN, Sports Blitz has let me down. Luckily, I had my man in the field (dad) who was keeping me posted via a series of texts. And Chris Bevan on the BBC Live Text.
Continuing the football theme, I made my South African league debut this evening. The parents (and older kids) from the local school meet up every Monday and Thursday evenings, so I was brought in as a highly touted signing for tonight’s game. For what could be seen as a bit of a kickabout was really hard fought and competitive, and by the end I was absolutely knackered (although my fitness levels, which leave a lot to be desired at the best of times, haven’t been helped by two months of doing absolutely no running about). My performance? Well, despite the fitness issues (not helped by blazing heat, even at 6pm) and the not great footwear (£2.50 plimsolls from the Australian equivalent of Primark), I had a couple of nice touches in midfield, and set up a couple of goals. However, I did miss an a bit of a sitter - I laid off the ball to the left wing and burst into the middle. The ball was flighted in, and with a free header about 5 yards out and the goal gaping, I missed the ball with my head and ended up shouldering it wide. Our side lost 7-4, but I look forward to getting involved and playing more over the next few weeks. Although I will be looking to get more appropriate footwear for next time!
So that was my football heavy day – and to all of my Liverpool supporting friends, can I just say
He’s now a blue he was a red, Torres! Torres!
He hates the Kop he loves the Shed, Torres! Torres!
He used to go out on the rob, but now he’s got a proper job
Fern-an-do Torres, Chelsea’s number nine!
Na na na na na na na na na na, na na!
Na na na na na na na na na na, na na!
Na na na na, na na na na, na na na na na na na,
Fernando Torres, Chelsea’s number nine!
Sunday, 30 January 2011
My first day in South Africa
I'm in South Africa! A new blog post, and a new continent. I arrived early doors yesterday morning, and with bleary eyes after the flight from Perth to Jo'burg (and from Jo'burg to Cape Town) I was welcomed to Africa by Tom. On our way back to Hout Bay (just outside Cape Town), we stopped off in the local market for my first beer on SA soil, as well as my first bit of food - a lovely prego roll. (Basically a steak sandwich with some nice sauces cooked into it. Lovely).
We arrived back at Tom's house (and my home for the next couple of months) to say hi to Linda and Georgia, and I just about had time to have a quick shower and throw on my Chelsea shirt before we headed back into Cape Town to watch Chelsea play Everton.
Tom is the chairman of the Cape Town Chelsea supporters club, and the members meet up to watch the games in a bar on the Waterfront. (Incidentally, the Waterfront is the most visited place in the whole of Africa - guess we got lucky to get a parking space!). It wasn't a great performance from Chelsea but the game itself wasn't too bad. The atmosphere in the bar we watched it in was also good, as the Cape Town Toffees had joined us to give a bit of rivalry and excitement to proceedings. So naturally, they were all giving it the big 'un when Louis Saha put Everton ahead, but were soon silenced when Salamon "Hasn't Got A" Kalou scuffed in an equaliser for the reigning FA Cup winners. 1-1 wasn't really a fair result (Chelsea deserved to go down by a few goals) but it was graciously accepted by both clubs, with handshakes at the end.
The supporters themselves were a good bunch and the rivalry between the two teams was only friendly banter. The 'predict a goal' competition (where you pay 2 rands to pick a minute, and whoever is closest to when the first goal is scored wins the pot) was won by Elton, an Everton fan, which helped keep the Toffees in good voice. Evidently one of their star performers (and favourites of the Cape Town Toffees) was Seamus Coleman. The name Seamus, for those of you who don't know, if pronounced "Shay-muss", but the CT Toffees kept saying it as though it rhymed with the word seabass. The frequent sounds of a few (with noticably strong SA accents) shouting "Come on Sea-mass!" was rather amusing.
After the game, we headed over to one of Tom and Linda's friends house for a small gathering. The women sat inside while the men and young children larked around in the pool. Deciding to class myself as a child (the oldest of which was otherwise 9), I joined in the general larking about. However, one of the games involved throwing each other off our woggles. (Or noodles, if you're politically incorrect). During a particularly heated exchange with the nine year old, where he was unable to get me off mine using sheer force, he decided to punch me in the face. Right in the mouth.
I've been lucky in my life to have previously avoided being punched in the face. Due to a combination of small stature and general cowardice, I've avoided being in fights mainly by either diffusing the situation with words, or simply running away. So when involved in a harmless game in the swimming pool with a child of half my age, I wasn't expecting a punch. It all happened in slow motion. I had been underwater, and bobbed my head up for a split second to breathe. I saw his face, filled with anger and fury, and I saw his fist moving towards my face. I tried to avoid it, but I didn't react quickly enough, and his right hand made contact with my top lip. I was stunned by this unprovoked blow, and immediately let go of my woggle, which he happily grabbed.
I said "Ow". He started laughing. I realised that as much as I wanted to smack him one back, it probably wouldn't go down well with his dad about 5 yards away. So I got out of the pool.
By this stage I was absolutely knackered. I'd been on the go since 9am the previous morning in Perth (which had a major time difference to SA), and other than a few uncomfortable hours of plane sleep, I hadn't been able to get any rest since that morning in the YHA. So after the gathering finished and we set off home, I went straight to bed, and slept for a solid 15 hours. Probably a new personal best.
So that was my first day in South Africa.
We arrived back at Tom's house (and my home for the next couple of months) to say hi to Linda and Georgia, and I just about had time to have a quick shower and throw on my Chelsea shirt before we headed back into Cape Town to watch Chelsea play Everton.
Tom is the chairman of the Cape Town Chelsea supporters club, and the members meet up to watch the games in a bar on the Waterfront. (Incidentally, the Waterfront is the most visited place in the whole of Africa - guess we got lucky to get a parking space!). It wasn't a great performance from Chelsea but the game itself wasn't too bad. The atmosphere in the bar we watched it in was also good, as the Cape Town Toffees had joined us to give a bit of rivalry and excitement to proceedings. So naturally, they were all giving it the big 'un when Louis Saha put Everton ahead, but were soon silenced when Salamon "Hasn't Got A" Kalou scuffed in an equaliser for the reigning FA Cup winners. 1-1 wasn't really a fair result (Chelsea deserved to go down by a few goals) but it was graciously accepted by both clubs, with handshakes at the end.
The supporters themselves were a good bunch and the rivalry between the two teams was only friendly banter. The 'predict a goal' competition (where you pay 2 rands to pick a minute, and whoever is closest to when the first goal is scored wins the pot) was won by Elton, an Everton fan, which helped keep the Toffees in good voice. Evidently one of their star performers (and favourites of the Cape Town Toffees) was Seamus Coleman. The name Seamus, for those of you who don't know, if pronounced "Shay-muss", but the CT Toffees kept saying it as though it rhymed with the word seabass. The frequent sounds of a few (with noticably strong SA accents) shouting "Come on Sea-mass!" was rather amusing.
After the game, we headed over to one of Tom and Linda's friends house for a small gathering. The women sat inside while the men and young children larked around in the pool. Deciding to class myself as a child (the oldest of which was otherwise 9), I joined in the general larking about. However, one of the games involved throwing each other off our woggles. (Or noodles, if you're politically incorrect). During a particularly heated exchange with the nine year old, where he was unable to get me off mine using sheer force, he decided to punch me in the face. Right in the mouth.
I've been lucky in my life to have previously avoided being punched in the face. Due to a combination of small stature and general cowardice, I've avoided being in fights mainly by either diffusing the situation with words, or simply running away. So when involved in a harmless game in the swimming pool with a child of half my age, I wasn't expecting a punch. It all happened in slow motion. I had been underwater, and bobbed my head up for a split second to breathe. I saw his face, filled with anger and fury, and I saw his fist moving towards my face. I tried to avoid it, but I didn't react quickly enough, and his right hand made contact with my top lip. I was stunned by this unprovoked blow, and immediately let go of my woggle, which he happily grabbed.
I said "Ow". He started laughing. I realised that as much as I wanted to smack him one back, it probably wouldn't go down well with his dad about 5 yards away. So I got out of the pool.
By this stage I was absolutely knackered. I'd been on the go since 9am the previous morning in Perth (which had a major time difference to SA), and other than a few uncomfortable hours of plane sleep, I hadn't been able to get any rest since that morning in the YHA. So after the gathering finished and we set off home, I went straight to bed, and slept for a solid 15 hours. Probably a new personal best.
So that was my first day in South Africa.
Friday, 28 January 2011
My Aussie Highlights
I'm about to leave Australia. I've really enjoyed it - it's a great country, with great people. Each place I've been to has been almost totally different from the place before, which has made this leg of my trip incredibly diverse, interesting and fun. I've been lucky enough to do the things that I've wanted to for the last month, and I've been very lucky that Australia has offered these things to me. While it may seem quite a corny thing to say, when I look back at my month in Oz, I honestly wouldn't change any of it, as it's been one of the best months of my life. I don't know if I've changed as a person, but I've probably taken a lot out of this in terms of trying new things on my own, and lots of great stories (and showing off) that I'll be able to do. So in the spirit of showing off my experiences (isn't what this blog's all about?), here's my Top 5 Australian moments.
5. Beating the Aussies on Australia Day
This was mainly a good day because England beat Australia in the cricket, but it was genuinely a great thing to be in Australia on Australia Day. To be part of the real celebration of everything Australian was a great experience, and it's a shame that England isn't like that on St George's Day. But anyway, it was good fun.
4. My first day with the Barmy Army
I've been a cricket fan for yonks, but Day 2 of the Sydney test was my first time I've been sitting in with the Barmy Army, and it was brilliant. England's good performance (as well as my fashion decision about the pink neckerchief) meant that this was a good day. And I got read out on the BBC.
3. Going to Stanley with Colette and Rachel
I had a great time with Colette and Rachel in Tas, and this trip was probably my favourite bit. It was so enjoyable both because of the cool things we did, and because I was lucky enough to spend it with some great people. I had a lovely time in Stanley (as I did for the rest of my time in Tassie) but the trip to Stanley was my favourite. Honourable mentions to go my first Chicken Parmi (which was gorge), but the crowning moment has to be me winning at both Scrabble and Monopoly.
2. My second road trip around Tas
As a road trip, it didn't really work because the bus broke down. As a tour, it didn't really work because we didn't do much. But as an experience, it was great. Much of life is down to the people you meet, and the other people on the tour were pretty cool. My favourite bit was going for a walk along the beach late at night with everyone else in bed looking for pengiuns. And it indirectly led to me meeting three England cricketers in a bar, so it was good.
1. The day England won the Ashes
Easily my favourite day in Australia; maybe even my favourite day full stop. It started with a brilliant atmosphere in the SCG watching England win the Ashes in the morning, and continued to a brilliant atmosphere in The Retro celebrating England winning the Ashes in the evening. It was just pretty awesome, on pretty much every level.
Thanks Australia. I'm going to miss you. But don't worry, I'll be back before too long.
5. Beating the Aussies on Australia Day
This was mainly a good day because England beat Australia in the cricket, but it was genuinely a great thing to be in Australia on Australia Day. To be part of the real celebration of everything Australian was a great experience, and it's a shame that England isn't like that on St George's Day. But anyway, it was good fun.
4. My first day with the Barmy Army
I've been a cricket fan for yonks, but Day 2 of the Sydney test was my first time I've been sitting in with the Barmy Army, and it was brilliant. England's good performance (as well as my fashion decision about the pink neckerchief) meant that this was a good day. And I got read out on the BBC.
3. Going to Stanley with Colette and Rachel
I had a great time with Colette and Rachel in Tas, and this trip was probably my favourite bit. It was so enjoyable both because of the cool things we did, and because I was lucky enough to spend it with some great people. I had a lovely time in Stanley (as I did for the rest of my time in Tassie) but the trip to Stanley was my favourite. Honourable mentions to go my first Chicken Parmi (which was gorge), but the crowning moment has to be me winning at both Scrabble and Monopoly.
2. My second road trip around Tas
As a road trip, it didn't really work because the bus broke down. As a tour, it didn't really work because we didn't do much. But as an experience, it was great. Much of life is down to the people you meet, and the other people on the tour were pretty cool. My favourite bit was going for a walk along the beach late at night with everyone else in bed looking for pengiuns. And it indirectly led to me meeting three England cricketers in a bar, so it was good.
1. The day England won the Ashes
Easily my favourite day in Australia; maybe even my favourite day full stop. It started with a brilliant atmosphere in the SCG watching England win the Ashes in the morning, and continued to a brilliant atmosphere in The Retro celebrating England winning the Ashes in the evening. It was just pretty awesome, on pretty much every level.
Thanks Australia. I'm going to miss you. But don't worry, I'll be back before too long.
Perth Wow!
I'm about to leave Perth. I didn't really spend a lot of time in it, so I can't give a particularly insightful review of it. So here's my opinion of Perth. It's very hot.
Checking out of Aussie hostels takes place at 10am. My flight from Adelaide to Perth was at 9pm. So I had to kill time for 11 hours while lugging my luggage about. Luckily, there are worse cities worldwide to be stranded in for a day than Adelaide, so I wandered around a few shops, ate a Chicken and Bacon Ranch Footlong in Subway (I finally had money for food!) and sat in one of the many parks, whiling away the time. And it wasn't too bad. While I was hampered by the fact that I had to keep hold of my three bags (main bag, laptop bag and overspill bag), I still managed to find an internet cafe where I could print out my boarding passes and documents for the days ahead, and I was also able to smash some top scores on Tap Tap Revenge. For those of you who understand Tap Tap, I'm just going to say this. Cascada's 'Evacuate the Dancefloor' (on Extreme). 1,081,662 points. 834 hit streak. The perfect game. Don't believe me? Here's a screenshot...
Anyway, the three hour flight to Perth from Adelaide left at 9.15, and arrived at 9.25. Confused? I was. Then I was told that there is a three hour time difference from Perth to the east coast of Aus. This only further upset my mind when trying to work out time compared to time back home. In Sydney and Hobart, it's an 11 hour difference, so it's just been a case of adding 1 to the time. Easy enough. Adelaide was more of a challenge, as it was adding 1 and a half. But in Perth, I have to take away 8. That was too much of a challenge for this Maths D Student (admittedly at A level after picking up an A* at GCSE...) so I had to keep using the inbuilt world clock on my phone.
So my flight arrived on Thursday evening in Perth. I checked in at about 10ish at night. Due to the flights that have been booked, I had to then check out at 10am the next morning, and wait around until 2345 for my flight. Which is what I'm doing now, in Perth airport, waiting for my flight to Johannesburg, South Africa.
So all of that meant I had only one day to explore Perth. I didn't really know much about Perth - much of my experience of it has been playing games on the Perth Wow website (as it wasn't blocked by the school's firewall). After checking out at about half nine, I had a look at a few maps and tourist brochures of things to do in the city. I had a few plans of things to do. I stepped out of the hotel, and was hit by a solid wall of heat. It was in a word, ridonculously hot. After only a few yards down the road, I was uncomfortable. It was too hot to even think straight, and the humidity made it hard to even breathe. I did the only sensible thing, and found somewhere air conditioned. Luckily, this place also did a full English breakfast, so I treated myself. I'd give it a 6 out of 10 - it did a job, but the beans didn't taste right. (And there is no place for scrambled eggs in a full English - it's fried eggs or no eggs).
I had a walk around Perth's shopping precinct, and then decided to take a walk down to the Swan River. (I realised that the Swan River is the main feature of Perth, so I wore my Graeme Swann tshirt just to fit in with the locals). It was partly a walk down to the river, but mostly a walk to the WACA (Perth's cricket ground). I've been to cricket grounds all over Australia now, and it would be churlish for me to come all the way over to Western Australia and not go for a look at the WACA. Sadly it was all locked up, but I had a little peek through the gates. I couldn't really see much, so I can't really offer an opinion of the WACA. Sorry. But I can tell you that it was hot (and I did feel the Fremantle Doctor - if you don't know what that is look it up).
After all of the heat and the walking (to get to the WACA it was an hour's round trip of walking - which when wearing flip flops really does take it out on the insides of the big toes), I was feeling all sticky and uncomfortable. Luckily, the Perth YHA (where I'd stayed for my one night in Perth) was pretty swanky for a backpackers hostel and had a swimming pool, so I was able to cool down nicely. And then, I got the bus to the airport, which is where I am now.
It's a bit of a shame that I couldn't spend longer in Perth. It all felt rushed - from having to quietly sneak into my room when I arrived so I didn't wake up my 3 roommates (who had left before I woke up so I didn't even get to see what they looked like), to having to get up when I didn't want to so I could meet the check out deadline, to not really being able to go too far away from the hotel just in case something happened. It wasn't really how I wanted to experience Perth. Which is why my review of Perth is basically of not being able to see into a locked cricket ground, and it being very hot. Which is a shame.
Checking out of Aussie hostels takes place at 10am. My flight from Adelaide to Perth was at 9pm. So I had to kill time for 11 hours while lugging my luggage about. Luckily, there are worse cities worldwide to be stranded in for a day than Adelaide, so I wandered around a few shops, ate a Chicken and Bacon Ranch Footlong in Subway (I finally had money for food!) and sat in one of the many parks, whiling away the time. And it wasn't too bad. While I was hampered by the fact that I had to keep hold of my three bags (main bag, laptop bag and overspill bag), I still managed to find an internet cafe where I could print out my boarding passes and documents for the days ahead, and I was also able to smash some top scores on Tap Tap Revenge. For those of you who understand Tap Tap, I'm just going to say this. Cascada's 'Evacuate the Dancefloor' (on Extreme). 1,081,662 points. 834 hit streak. The perfect game. Don't believe me? Here's a screenshot...
Anyway, the three hour flight to Perth from Adelaide left at 9.15, and arrived at 9.25. Confused? I was. Then I was told that there is a three hour time difference from Perth to the east coast of Aus. This only further upset my mind when trying to work out time compared to time back home. In Sydney and Hobart, it's an 11 hour difference, so it's just been a case of adding 1 to the time. Easy enough. Adelaide was more of a challenge, as it was adding 1 and a half. But in Perth, I have to take away 8. That was too much of a challenge for this Maths D Student (admittedly at A level after picking up an A* at GCSE...) so I had to keep using the inbuilt world clock on my phone.
So my flight arrived on Thursday evening in Perth. I checked in at about 10ish at night. Due to the flights that have been booked, I had to then check out at 10am the next morning, and wait around until 2345 for my flight. Which is what I'm doing now, in Perth airport, waiting for my flight to Johannesburg, South Africa.
So all of that meant I had only one day to explore Perth. I didn't really know much about Perth - much of my experience of it has been playing games on the Perth Wow website (as it wasn't blocked by the school's firewall). After checking out at about half nine, I had a look at a few maps and tourist brochures of things to do in the city. I had a few plans of things to do. I stepped out of the hotel, and was hit by a solid wall of heat. It was in a word, ridonculously hot. After only a few yards down the road, I was uncomfortable. It was too hot to even think straight, and the humidity made it hard to even breathe. I did the only sensible thing, and found somewhere air conditioned. Luckily, this place also did a full English breakfast, so I treated myself. I'd give it a 6 out of 10 - it did a job, but the beans didn't taste right. (And there is no place for scrambled eggs in a full English - it's fried eggs or no eggs).
I had a walk around Perth's shopping precinct, and then decided to take a walk down to the Swan River. (I realised that the Swan River is the main feature of Perth, so I wore my Graeme Swann tshirt just to fit in with the locals). It was partly a walk down to the river, but mostly a walk to the WACA (Perth's cricket ground). I've been to cricket grounds all over Australia now, and it would be churlish for me to come all the way over to Western Australia and not go for a look at the WACA. Sadly it was all locked up, but I had a little peek through the gates. I couldn't really see much, so I can't really offer an opinion of the WACA. Sorry. But I can tell you that it was hot (and I did feel the Fremantle Doctor - if you don't know what that is look it up).
After all of the heat and the walking (to get to the WACA it was an hour's round trip of walking - which when wearing flip flops really does take it out on the insides of the big toes), I was feeling all sticky and uncomfortable. Luckily, the Perth YHA (where I'd stayed for my one night in Perth) was pretty swanky for a backpackers hostel and had a swimming pool, so I was able to cool down nicely. And then, I got the bus to the airport, which is where I am now.
It's a bit of a shame that I couldn't spend longer in Perth. It all felt rushed - from having to quietly sneak into my room when I arrived so I didn't wake up my 3 roommates (who had left before I woke up so I didn't even get to see what they looked like), to having to get up when I didn't want to so I could meet the check out deadline, to not really being able to go too far away from the hotel just in case something happened. It wasn't really how I wanted to experience Perth. Which is why my review of Perth is basically of not being able to see into a locked cricket ground, and it being very hot. Which is a shame.
Thursday, 27 January 2011
Oh Adelaide! Is Wonderful!
Before I talk about the cricket (and don’t worry non-cricket fans, this will be the last cricket blog I do), I’ll talk about why I ended up going to watch cricket in Australia on Australia Day.
Four years ago, England were playing against Australia. They’d just lost the Ashes 5-0, and had been similarly heavily beaten in the first few ODIs. Surprising, seeing as England were fielding such greats as Sajid Mahmood, Mal Loye and Paul Nixon. Australia had won the first few ODIs convincingly, and they then played against England on Australia Day. The Australia Day game is a massive thing out here; it’s a celebration of all things Aussie, and a chance for everyone to stick on their giant flags and as much green and gold face paint as possible. On Aussie Day 2007, England were, for want of a better word, absolutely merked. It wasn’t even a contest. After being bowled out for not many, Australia then chased it down to record a win of mind-blowing ease. While I didn’t watch the game (I was still in bed due to time difference), I did see the post-match interviews, where a number of Aussies claimed that England were a disgrace for playing so poorly on Australia Day, and they weren’t fit to even line up against their boys. This rankled with me a touch. While England amazingly recovered to win the series, the chip on my shoulder from that day has stayed with me ever since. So when England were due to play Australia on Australia Day this year, I knew that I needed to go. And I knew that only an England win could erase the pain of four years ago.
So I went to the Adelaide Oval yesterday. And didn’t England go and blooming smash the Aussies!
As a Chelsea fan, I take great delight in the misfortunes of rival clubs. One of my favourite things in football is when they show the crowd after an Arsenal, Man United, or Liverpool defeat (for one team this happens more than the others) and it shows small children in Arsenal, Man United or Liverpool shirts crying. I revel in their pain. You could say that I hate those clubs. However, as a cricket fan, I don’t hate the Aussies – in fact I quite like them. Yes, I dislike a few of their players, but I don’t actively laugh in the faces of crying Australian children. But yesterday, on the day where all Australians celebrate being Australian, I did enjoy seeing England crash the party. Fireworks, that were meant to celebrate how brilliant Aussies are were actually celebrating Chris Tremlett bowling the final over.
My day at the cricket was unusual. Normally, I spend much of the day flicking through Twitter on my phone and adding valuable insights / pointless banalities live from the ground to my 150 odd followers. But I’ve used up all of my data this month, so I couldn’t. As I often go to cricket on my own (sad face) using Twitter to see what others are saying and to chat about the cricket is a good way of making me feel like I have some friends. But not today. I couldn’t even go on Facebook and reassure myself about my popularity by looking at my statuses people have commented on. So I had to talk to actual people. As it was Australia day, the English were few and far between. Any English that were there weren’t openly “out”, as they would massively stand out amongst the massive displays of Aussie patriotism. However, I was there to support England, so I had my England shirt on, and I was the only person in my area to belt out “God save the Queen” when it was played before the game. After signing it (and listening to the Aussies sing “Advance Australia Fair”), a few Englanders came over to me. Safety in numbers I think. So we had a nice time watching England dominate, and by the end, with loads of Aussies streaming out, we were the only people there (slight exaggeration).
So my phone worries weren’t too bad. Especially when compared to my other thing I was lacking – money. In other, older posts, I’ve spoken about how I have to go and queue up in a bank to get some money out, as my card doesn’t work in ATMs (and certain shops – Hungry Jack’s being a prime example). I’ve also spoken about the ridiculous times that Australian banks operate, and opening at 10.30 and closing at 4 is quite frankly stupid. After going to the beach the other day (and knowing that after buying fish & chips and a tram ticket I only had $1.75 left in cash) I went straight to the local Commonwealth Bank at about 4.15, making sure I had plenty of time before the (I thought) 5.00 close. I arrived to find a locked door. And Australia Day being a bank holiday, they were closed again the next day. So I had $1.75 to buy me food and drink (as well as any bus tickets or general expense) for the next day. Another thing about Australia Day – every shop is closed. Every one (even McDonalds). So even if my $1.75 was able to buy me anything, I couldn’t go into a shop to spend it. So basically, the day of the 26th of January 2011 was spent as a fast by me. There were times when it was hard. At the cricket they had all sorts of food stalls, and smelling chips, burgers, and even curries (that was the hardest stall to walk past) certainly got me salivating. But because it was so hot, I didn’t actually feel too bad. Water-wise, I have a giant 2 litre bottle which I’ve been filling up from taps for free, so that wasn’t an issue. Somehow, I managed to walk there and back, as well as spending the day at the cricket, without eating a thing. I did well. And I’ve now had some cornflakes this morning, so I made it! (Mum, if you’re worried by that last paragraph, I’ve just been to the bank, so now I have money to buy as many burgers as I like)
I’m writing this blog in the Adelaide Travellers Inn; about 10 minutes before I have to check out. It’s been good in Adelaide. I’ve really liked how it’s both a big city with loads of stuff going on, and quite small and accessible. You can literally walk anywhere. Where I’ve been staying is right in the south east of the city, and it’s only a 25/30 minute walk right over to the other side. There are parks everywhere – which is really nice as well. Overall, I’ve had a great time in Adelaide, and will be sorry to leave it. Next stop Perth!
(And as the group of England fans were singing last night – “Oh Adelaide! Is wonderful! Oh Adelaide is wonderful! We won the test, the 20 and the one day! Oh Adelaide is wonderful!)
Will
Four years ago, England were playing against Australia. They’d just lost the Ashes 5-0, and had been similarly heavily beaten in the first few ODIs. Surprising, seeing as England were fielding such greats as Sajid Mahmood, Mal Loye and Paul Nixon. Australia had won the first few ODIs convincingly, and they then played against England on Australia Day. The Australia Day game is a massive thing out here; it’s a celebration of all things Aussie, and a chance for everyone to stick on their giant flags and as much green and gold face paint as possible. On Aussie Day 2007, England were, for want of a better word, absolutely merked. It wasn’t even a contest. After being bowled out for not many, Australia then chased it down to record a win of mind-blowing ease. While I didn’t watch the game (I was still in bed due to time difference), I did see the post-match interviews, where a number of Aussies claimed that England were a disgrace for playing so poorly on Australia Day, and they weren’t fit to even line up against their boys. This rankled with me a touch. While England amazingly recovered to win the series, the chip on my shoulder from that day has stayed with me ever since. So when England were due to play Australia on Australia Day this year, I knew that I needed to go. And I knew that only an England win could erase the pain of four years ago.
So I went to the Adelaide Oval yesterday. And didn’t England go and blooming smash the Aussies!
As a Chelsea fan, I take great delight in the misfortunes of rival clubs. One of my favourite things in football is when they show the crowd after an Arsenal, Man United, or Liverpool defeat (for one team this happens more than the others) and it shows small children in Arsenal, Man United or Liverpool shirts crying. I revel in their pain. You could say that I hate those clubs. However, as a cricket fan, I don’t hate the Aussies – in fact I quite like them. Yes, I dislike a few of their players, but I don’t actively laugh in the faces of crying Australian children. But yesterday, on the day where all Australians celebrate being Australian, I did enjoy seeing England crash the party. Fireworks, that were meant to celebrate how brilliant Aussies are were actually celebrating Chris Tremlett bowling the final over.
My day at the cricket was unusual. Normally, I spend much of the day flicking through Twitter on my phone and adding valuable insights / pointless banalities live from the ground to my 150 odd followers. But I’ve used up all of my data this month, so I couldn’t. As I often go to cricket on my own (sad face) using Twitter to see what others are saying and to chat about the cricket is a good way of making me feel like I have some friends. But not today. I couldn’t even go on Facebook and reassure myself about my popularity by looking at my statuses people have commented on. So I had to talk to actual people. As it was Australia day, the English were few and far between. Any English that were there weren’t openly “out”, as they would massively stand out amongst the massive displays of Aussie patriotism. However, I was there to support England, so I had my England shirt on, and I was the only person in my area to belt out “God save the Queen” when it was played before the game. After signing it (and listening to the Aussies sing “Advance Australia Fair”), a few Englanders came over to me. Safety in numbers I think. So we had a nice time watching England dominate, and by the end, with loads of Aussies streaming out, we were the only people there (slight exaggeration).
So my phone worries weren’t too bad. Especially when compared to my other thing I was lacking – money. In other, older posts, I’ve spoken about how I have to go and queue up in a bank to get some money out, as my card doesn’t work in ATMs (and certain shops – Hungry Jack’s being a prime example). I’ve also spoken about the ridiculous times that Australian banks operate, and opening at 10.30 and closing at 4 is quite frankly stupid. After going to the beach the other day (and knowing that after buying fish & chips and a tram ticket I only had $1.75 left in cash) I went straight to the local Commonwealth Bank at about 4.15, making sure I had plenty of time before the (I thought) 5.00 close. I arrived to find a locked door. And Australia Day being a bank holiday, they were closed again the next day. So I had $1.75 to buy me food and drink (as well as any bus tickets or general expense) for the next day. Another thing about Australia Day – every shop is closed. Every one (even McDonalds). So even if my $1.75 was able to buy me anything, I couldn’t go into a shop to spend it. So basically, the day of the 26th of January 2011 was spent as a fast by me. There were times when it was hard. At the cricket they had all sorts of food stalls, and smelling chips, burgers, and even curries (that was the hardest stall to walk past) certainly got me salivating. But because it was so hot, I didn’t actually feel too bad. Water-wise, I have a giant 2 litre bottle which I’ve been filling up from taps for free, so that wasn’t an issue. Somehow, I managed to walk there and back, as well as spending the day at the cricket, without eating a thing. I did well. And I’ve now had some cornflakes this morning, so I made it! (Mum, if you’re worried by that last paragraph, I’ve just been to the bank, so now I have money to buy as many burgers as I like)
I’m writing this blog in the Adelaide Travellers Inn; about 10 minutes before I have to check out. It’s been good in Adelaide. I’ve really liked how it’s both a big city with loads of stuff going on, and quite small and accessible. You can literally walk anywhere. Where I’ve been staying is right in the south east of the city, and it’s only a 25/30 minute walk right over to the other side. There are parks everywhere – which is really nice as well. Overall, I’ve had a great time in Adelaide, and will be sorry to leave it. Next stop Perth!
(And as the group of England fans were singing last night – “Oh Adelaide! Is wonderful! Oh Adelaide is wonderful! We won the test, the 20 and the one day! Oh Adelaide is wonderful!)
Will
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