Em's Birthday

So the 28th was Em's birthday, however work prevented us from celebrating on the day, so plans were shifted to the 29th. Sam arrived in the morning, and after spending two days by himself in Dubai, and not speaking for several hours, so he made up for lost time, ha ha. So we got home, ate, did some shopping and then ventured into the exciting Luton nightlife.....first stop the exchange - one pound drinks.

Company by the way was Sam, Emily, Dan, Adam and another Adam (Dan and first adam cabin crew as well, the other Adam a pilot). Then moved onto Chicago's....and let me tell you this place has my kinda music!!!! Bit of Bon Jovi, Bryan Adams, Guns and Roses, 'I want to dance with somebody' by Whitney and the all so important Dirty Dancing soundtrack - I was in heaven baby!!! Ha ha had a blast!!! Was great fun, however all things come to and end, and in Luton that end at 2am!!!! Not fair at all, but we ended up all going our own ways, and ended up crashing into bed @4/5ish......was a fun night.

New Years tomorrow and so far the plan is to go into London, to see the fireworks, then come back to Luton as one of our friends is having a party - Em and I are both on standby from 7am on the 1st (boo hoo).

Anyway off to bed,

laylatov xx

Lets turn our attention to work...

Ok so I started work a few weeks ago, and its been good fun. Met a lot of people, landed in a few a few different countries, and by now completed my fair share of safety demo's! So here are the two snaps I took whilst working. The first one being on Airport Standby, of which you really do nothing but sit in the room, shop in duty free, have the opportunity to fall asleep on the very comfrotable couches, and eat. Not such a bad life.....

Next we have the crew I flew with down to Barcelona. Was a very fun day, nice passengers, never got bored etc etc. Always nice to finish a days work though, you just leave the plane there with new crew to start their shift (ha ha).

I know that whilst reading this you are just thinking how great the uniform it. The orange is just so hot right now.....BUT....sad news for you, we are changing uniforms. I believe sometime in the new year we shall be adopting a more formal approach, and be given suits......yay I get to be a suit* again. Until then we have to grin and bare the current one. (My favourite is the hi-viz vest).

*In reference to a colleague of mine in Brisbane, Arthur- as he so fondly reffered to me as a 'suit'
....cheeky boy!

Nothing beats a roast

So after preparing my lamb last night, I woke up this morning and put it straight in the oven. I was so impatient waiting for it to cook, but the movie Antz kept me occupied whilst I restrained myself from opening that oven and eating it all.

Was it worth the wait or what!!!! The lamb melted in my mouth......have a very happy tummy now.

Now going to relax, will be on later to put some more photos on from work.....

Merry Christmas, and happy Hanukkah

Christmas time is upon us.....

Well In Brisbane 10 minutes ago it clicked over to Christmas, Canberra an hour or so ago......Here westill have another 10 hours to go.

So what are my plans? I am going to the shops now to buy my final little ingredients which is going to be the best Christmas lunch. Roast lamb, thinking of changing from roast vegies to my sweet potato/normal potato mash, with my broccolini - I am obsessed what can I say. Going to get some expensive fruit for dessert - maybe strawberries or something so delicious like them......cant wait!

As for my ideal qhite Christmas, I think it will only be in my dreams as it is set to be a stinking hot 3 degrees!!!! Cant wait (NOT)

Went to Barcelona on a fun flight yesterday, going to Edinburgh and Amsterdam next on Wed/Thursday, then Sam shall be here Friday. Then New Years baby!!! Will keep you all posted on what I shall be up to then - no set plans as yet.

Merry Christmas to you all,

speak soon xx

First night out in sooooo long

Ok so for me - officially the coldest day so far!!!!! Have a look at that - it was 3:30/4pm!!!! Sun is starting to go down - frost has stayed on the footpath ALL DAY!!!!! I stupidly went in a T-shirt thinking I would brave the cold for five minutes, and warm up as I was walking, however this was NOT the case, I can assure you! My arms became 'goose flesh' (love that term), then became numb, and my fingers turned purple - a nice purple, but purple! Not nice.

So didn't end up walking for long, and went and hung out at Rachel's place for a bit (Irish chick, you will see further down).
Then it was time to get ready and go out. First thing - dress warm - I took this on board and used my doona jacket as I call it (left)- twas gooood I took it!

Emily and I wondered to a few places, first Somerset, near our place, then hopped on a bus, went to the White House where we met Rachel and Lindsy, then moved onto Yates as it was too packed, however they weren't showing the soccer (Chelsea V Newcastle) so off we went to 'The Park' - was a bit lifeless, but the soccer was on so we stayed.

The boys then joined us (pilots we met on training, they are Dutch, however based in Belfast). After Chelsea beat Newcastle, we relocated back to the White House, where the night began. Had a few drinks, a little dance, and a great night overall.

During the night we wanted to teach the boys a few things....To the left is how to strike a 'I'm thinking about something very serious and important pose'. Emily grasped it perfectly, Olaf (left) going for the model shot, Patrick (right) has the 'I'm quite pathetic' look about him......ha ha

Secondly was how you cant tear Australian money - Rudy did try his best, as you can see, however was unsuccessful in his task! [Let me just take the opportunity to say, Aussie money is the coolest money in the WORLD - no denying it]

Third little thing, not quite a lesson in anything, however this was a 'try to pinch Patrick's fat' - an ex Judo player, so no such thing - pictured is extra material.

We even had a proposal for the night - Lindsy asking for Rachel's hand in marriage......awwww how sweet!!

After that closed, we were due to move onto the next place, as it was an early 1am, however after a few strange boys tried to pick us up, we bolted!!! Boys here are a tad strange if I may say so myself. This guy I let trip over the bin, ha ha, tried to leave him there, but he did get up and follow us again.

So then we jumped in a cab, and were headed home. For a nice surprise we came home to witness this......
No explanation to give really.........luckily I took some form of evidence, as waking up this morning I wouldnt have believed it!!!! ha ha

Was a fun night!

The Ashes

Its now gone lunch on the final day of the Ashes, Flintoff and Panesar left to defend only the most important title of the sport - and they are sooooo going to collapse! ha ha ha

Today I had a visitor - the lovely Lisa. After watching the cricket, and having the morning to myself, I opted to go for a walk, and what a nice day it was. The sun was out, probably only the one cloud in the sky, a few birds singing (although it was a horrible tune), however it was still freezing!!!

Played a few card games, kicked butt which is always nice : )

Ok well back to see the pomms go DOWN baby!

byeeeeeeeee

Best day so far

Yesterday I had the most fun at work so far......granted its the best out of three, but anyway!!!

Went to Poland (Warsaw) and back, tested new selling techniques - of stuffing a teddy down my top!!!!, was given chocolate as a 'thank you' from one of trainers for letting him fly with us (how sweet), and got 5 pounds for selling 100 scratch cards, and a bottle of Kenzo perfume (worth 25 pounds), for reaching above our spend per head. Not a day I can complain about I must say.

However it continued, found out about 25% off duty free for easyjet staff (YAY), so went and bought myself some alcohol(a chocolate mint baileys) and my DKNY perfume as I ran out. Then I arrived home to my Sydney Swans 5 disc collection from 2005 series - all of the finals games, plus highlights of the season - how cool????????

So after being on a high I cooked - Steak, with mash (combination of potato and sweet potato) and broccolini with garlic and oyster sauce -whoooaaaaa it was good! Crashed at 6:30 in my warm bed (loving the electric blanket), and woke up perfectly at 2am in time for the cricket :)
Clever girl I am!!!

Well going back for a quick little nap, before getting up to watch the rest of the cricket, and go for my Airport Standby :)

Laylatov xx

funny talk

Emily says - "Aussies speak so lazy" - thinking it makes sense, then follows up trying not to make sense by saying "I speak good English" instead of, I speak English good ......ha ha

had to chuckle

3 days off, come and gone

Today is my last day off, however I'm hoping for my phone staying quiet in the morning, as I am on Standby from 7-9, so if I escape those two hours, I will be free to watch the end of day one of the third test :)

Got back from London today, having said goodbye to my brother, who leaves for Australia on Sunday :( I managed to score all of this old things, blankets, electric blankets (needed), towels, first aid stuff, webcam, lights etc etc. So with all this stuff, I managed to squeeze the blanket and a bit of the first aid stuff into my backpack - everything else I had to carry in bags - ended up with 4 extra heavy bags - full of stuff! Going on the tube, EVERYONE was looking at me - quite embarassing. Was lucky to squeeze into the train from Kings Cross to Luton - was packed. But I survived and I know have a messy room once again.

Now I am relaxing, watching TV, whilst my roommate is snuggling up to her new man - so funny, but quite cute. they so want me out of here, but they will have to wait for an hour or so until this is over....ha ha

okies I'm signing off - go the Aussies in the cricket!!!! Lets hope we put Freddie and the boys back in their place :)

and now I'm good to go

Ok as requested - a more detailed explanation......the 12 hour day consisted of checking in to work, having a meeting, getting tested on questions, checking all the safety equipment on board etc etc, seating passengers, flight to Faro, Portugal, then back to luton, then to aberdeen back to Luton again, where we then go for a final meeting to discuss the day. So by the end it all racks up time!!

Day two was on Sunday, which was my check flight - so someone following me around, making sure that I do everything correctly. Anyway after only two and a half hours sleep, I had to get up at 4:30am!!!! Not fun......but it was a great day - Amsterdam and Geneva today, quick flights, nice people, and it all went rather quickly which was great for me. Managed to answer all questions correctly so now I am ready to fly solo baby!!! Next flight on Friday to Warsaw....yay!!! Its fun, although i can see it getting pretty boring - oh well......staff travel :D

So getting home last night, I put myself to bed at 6:30pm after falling asleep in front of the tv, and stayed asleep until 9:30am!!! Felt quite refreshed really.

Now in London - took my brother to dinner to celebrate his birthday which was on Saturday, and had Vietnamese food - was great!!!! Had Soda Chan (Nam manow - lime soda) which was the best!!!! Missed it.

Last week we had some Pilots visiting - some we met on training - Patrick and Dennis - Dutch guys, based out in Belfast, Northern Ireland. Was nice to catch up with them - Patrick and my room mate Emily have agreed to get married so Pat can work and live in Australia - so this weekend they got engaged - ha ha, we managed to find the perfect engagement ring - the famous Durex ring - the proposal was not on one knee, as we were shoved in the corner, but the thought was there - Em tried it on straight away!!!!!

anyway I'm off to watch America's Next Top Model - its in Thailand at the moment - nice to see it again - I want to be back there!!!! :'(

back at work baby

So today was day 1...........I admit I was nervous, scared -ok I freaked out totally, but once there, all went ok. I passed my questions, I did the demo on my first flight (exits, seatbelts, lifejackets and all), I then got to sit in the flight deck for a take off and a landing. I got take off in Faro - looked like quite a nice place, then landing into Luton, which was great cause it just got dark, no clouds in the sky, and all I could see was lights. Landing definately beats take-off......but still I got to hear a lot about all the different gadets, switches, screens etc etc.

So after 4 months almost of literally doing nothing and not working, I kick start it with a 12 hour flight - suprisingly not even that tired (even though I only got four hours sleep).

So now a day off, and then Sunday I have my test flight - more training to do now.

ok i'm going to bed

laylatov

A taste from home

So yesterday my flatmates and I were sitting in front of the tv, all craving something sweet. Emily then goes 'mmm......chocolate, lets go down to the shop'. I let it slip that I have chocolate in my room which I have tried to avoid opening. She then mentions that she has a craving for Tim Tam's (its been 5 months without them in sight even). I then confirm that this is in fact what I have - my mum brought them over for me. Anyway we decide to treat ourselves.

Having to introduce the local Kerry to such divine biscuits we opt to do so in true Aussie style (or how i used to eat them back home anyway). Out came the trainer in me. We were all prepared with our hot beverages, one tim tam each (have to make the pack last), and ready to go. So dunk first, turn around, and start sucking until u can drink the hot chocolate. Then devour whats left.

Was it good!!! Oh baby, oh baby. Very satisfying, so satisfying in fact Emily went into London today, and planned to make a stop at the Australian shop in Covent Garden.

ok thats it - bye

8th Dec

The last comment I got was that I needed to post something more interesting - so here it is - my flight is booked for the 8th December - Yay I go to Faro and Aberdeen.......so this should be my new little adventure for the month - its only taken 4 months to get here, but at least its going to start : )

Anyway thats it - talk soon xx

Almost 8am

So day one is over, and so is my day as it is almost 8 in the morning. I was impressed with my effort, however need enough sleep to get up and do it again tomorrow night, so laylatov all. Also Ponting played brilliantly - also Hussey (how cool is hussey???)

Night/morning, what ever u say

Today is the day

So today is the day we start the Ashes.........and whats expected????????? England will crumble!!! And as I currently live in the UK, this better be the case so that I can run around and laugh at everyone here. Aussie, Aussie, Aussie!!!!!!!!!!!!

Mum's last day

So peoples, today I say goodbye to my mummy, who is off to home once again......so sad.

Last few days I haven't been doing much, went and visited lovely Lisa at her new place in Crawley, and then went to pick up my mum and brother from the airport. It was then that I encountered my first real delays with the tube. Lisa told me to give it an hour/hour and a half, but being the cautious person I am, I decided to leave over two and a half hours before they arrived - which didn't pay off. They ended up waiting for me!! Grrrr.....the rain and london underground do not make a happy couple!

So then we have been relaxing all together, going to my brothers ex-girlfriends grandmothers for lunch again, which was nice - even met the dad this time.

But today means goodbye - so it was time to squeeze in all the final chores she wanted to do. First on the list - hair cut & colour from maya - so having changed profession for the day, I was glad that it turned out quite well - she was also excited. Then she wanted photos of me and my brother, so out to the front garden (of Yoni's place) to take a few happy snaps..... And it was freezing!!!! Not nice at all.

So now getting ready to go to the airport :(

On my front, I am hoping to start work this week, and shall call them tomorrow to check if my ID has arrived (fingers crossed)

So shall keep you updated

bye for now xx

So proud to be Aussie right now

Soooooooooo, why am I so happy right now - let me explain. Knowing there was a cricket game in progress I decide to log on to keep myself informed of the score. New South Wales declare @ 9/355, and England were chasing quite convincingly (not to my liking), and reached 5/289 with plenty of overs to go. So I keep refreshing the page to see whats happening......then a wicket falls, few overs later, a few runs scored then another wicket, and a few more runs and another wicket.......so you get where I'm going with this.......They ended with a final score of ALL out for 349 - so close yet so far :)

(and its only a state side)

the match was a draw however as a second innings was not completed I was informed. Oh well was a good fightback from NSW

Just a thought

So whats your opinion - I recieved an email from work about nightstops over christmas and new years, this was her comment about the situation(keeping in mind they pay for a partner to go with you, hotel accommodation, and christmas dinner), and I quote: "I’m sure the majority of you would rather not go away… can’t blame you!!"

My thought - was stupid person would not want to go????? Come on, potential white christmas in another country - PAID FOR - I signed up straight away - so heres hoping :D

Patience is not a virtue - it is frustrating!!!!

Ok so it has been a while since a proper update, so here it comes. My life over the past few days has consisted of waiting for a phone call from Easyjet to tell me that my ID is through and that I am flying : ) - but it hasn't come yet.....grrrr, hopefully tommorrow (fingers crossed)

Other activities of mine have included more experimenting with my cooking, watching greys anatomy (now I have every episode available and I am a happy little girl :D ), going for walks to the shops, caught up with a friend or two, and trying to keep informed regarding soccer (football) - I am currently watching Reading V Tottenham, however looking forward to Arsenal V Liverpool which is on @ 4pm!!!

I got my fix of cricket the other day through taking pleasure in watching the Pomms GO DOWN to the Primeministers XI, and now hearing that Jaques scored another century makes me even happier!!!

Now I have to focus on studying :( not an appealing task for me, but have to embrace it.

I shall let you know when I start flying peoples (very exciting)

byeeeee xx

two out of three = a winner!!

Sorry andrew......always has to be LOSER :-> better luck next time xx

A sweeter victory

a win is always good :)

Dublin.....where everything is green!

So I'm here!!!! I'm finally here - over 12 years later, I return to this lovelly country. I know I havent finished off my Israel trip - but a run down, made it to Jerusalem, made it to the beach, Max Brenner again, Falafel again, and managed to catch up with David, French Canadian guy I met in New Zealand......

So now that thats done onto Irelan.....the very COLD Ireland. Today I opted for a trip down memory lane - my old dart station, Booterstown, my old school, St Andrews College, my old house, St Helens Wood, the new hotel I want to work at, St Helens Wood Raddisson, and all the other areas I remember. (This is mostly for my parents and brother - Monkstown, Blackrock, Dun Laoighrie, Dalkey, Stillorgan - ALL crossed off the to do list....)

Very very very nice to be back. Was a weird feeling as though I never left - the things I remembered hadn't changed which was nice. But a lot of walking was involved - left at 8:30 returned 6:30...had about one and a half hours break for lunch/a bit of a read.....so quite tired.

Might retire to bed early. However it is late night shopping, and I am determined to buy a warm jacket here for the Winter....

Ok talk soon

Maya xx

Sabbath

Tov (ok), tonight we went to have Sabbath dinner with the whole kibbutz, at the chader-o-chel, which was great food! Vegetable soup for entree, marinated roast chicken with rice for main, along with salad, and desert then at home - fruit, fruit, and more fruit. Along with afternoon activies, the evening consisted of meeting a lot of other people, and catching up on where life has brought me. I think I have an idea - write on a business card all the answers to all the questions, and to every new person I meet, hand it out - would save a lot of hassle.....although I must say it is fun! One persom which we stumbled on was a classmate of my uncle, I dont think I have met her before but I was introduced to her as Koky - which is my mums nickname. It came from her teacher in kindi who explain that "Kotec" in Polish is kitten, and as my mum has green eyes she called her Koky cause it was cute. Anyway everyone in Israel knows her as that - the name Rachel is a secret. So I say my name is Maya, and she said that her daughters name is also Maya (spelt the same way might I add), so above is a photo of Maya & Maya, Koky & Koky.

My mums best friend from school, Tammi and her daughter Shira came to visit us, which was lovelly. Tami's brother works with the cows, so after dinner he took us for a walk to see how the cows live....haha

They were so cute - he showed me the system which they are fed on, which was quite interesting, as it monitors the drinking habits of each individual calf, and cleanses the nozzle after each one as well - quite smart. I fell in love with this little baby calf - only a week old!!! It was quite friendly. I saw one which was only one day old - and let me tell you it WASNT small......quite scary really - but also quite cute when it struggled to stand.

So after returned home, and now in bed. So until tomorrow......laylatov xx

Afula.......brief but tasty.....

So today we ventured out to Afula, only for a quick trip to do a bit of shopping, eat falafel and return. So shopping = same same, Falafel = amazing....haha. Did rain, and Safta did get angry with me cause I wore my flip flops, however was very warm, so no complaints from me. When we got home it was straight to the Chader-o-chel (food hall, right). This is the place where all the kibbutz can eat every breakfast, lunch and dinner (these days only dinner on sabbath), so my mum gets quite scared too see everyone at once (200pax @ a time - 600 pax in the kibbutz). I was happy to stay at home, however I was dragged along as moral support. With my little hebrew, I could understand, but found it difficult to answer, but we managed. I sat down, and then everyone would come and say hello, so food was a bit cold by the time I ate it. But anyways, it was good to see everyone, as it has been over 7 years!

Then we went for a walk around the kibbutz (finally during daytime!!!) - so here are a few pics....

Ok now the pics arrive - read previous post

So as promised (although I bet you guys will see photos first - BUT it took me a good few hours to upload them all.......tomorrow we are off to Afula - the little countrytown next to Geva to eat Falafel.....CANT WAIT baby!


Ima (my mummy) and Oori outside the army headquaters is Tiberias - with our sexy young soldier in the background.......quite a few cherrio's (hotties) around the place.



This is then the rare flower which we went in search for - total driving time 2 hours to get there!!!




Some of the food which we enjoyed today - keep in mind there were only 4 of us!!!! But how good was it.....in hebrew we say 'Mashu Mashu' (really really good)


This is me ......as a teapot..



This is at the river Jordan - you can see just one group going in, however there are many many others there. Please take note of the fish...they are also swimming where the silly people are standing!! eeek








This is a photo of the otters which we stumbled upon




Finally, my mum and I with the Kineret behind us, and the Golan Heights at the back to the very very right. This was at the memorial park which was great to see.

Update you tomorrow

day two

So today we were up, ate breakfast and off. First stop Tiberias, to ensure that I do not have to join the army. But all was ok. Bit of road rage here from our driver however, the car infront of us was going a bit slowly, so after beeping (A LOT) and being side-by-side, our driver (Oori-brother of my mums best friend from the kibbutz) decides to give the driver a bit of advice and says the following (keep in mind the driver did nothing wrong, and was an old religious man with a white beard! - almost prohphet like): "you have to to the licensing department, to appologise to them for giving you a license, and give back your licence to them because you are a very bad driver" - hahaha, in hebrew 10 times funnier!!! This was just once incident to come.

The view from here (Tiberias) was amazing, reminided me a bit of Genova in Italy, as the town or city is built on a steep hill, so everyone has a view of the kineret (Sea of Galilee). Unfortunately it was a bit hazy, however it was amazing with all the banana trees, olive trees and date trees, hugging the road. So driving along, I did not know exactly what we were going to, as I was just told the Kineret, however once we arrived at this secret little location I understood why we went of the main road. Oori was in the army, and was positioned around this area, so he was familiar with the surroundings, and he knew of this 'secret' army base - so I found out we were going towards this. It was positioned at the top of this hill, so just as it was above us, there was another car parked on the side of the road, and here we pulled up. Nothing at all was there apart from the army base on top, the view and a little door within a wire fence. So we all hopped out, not knowing what exactly we were doing there, and climbed through this simple door like thing. Anyway we saw a family, sitting under a tree having a picnic (must have been their car), so we said hello and got to talking. Anyway I was rushed along by my grandmother (safta - grandmother in hebrew) and oori. They pointed out that we were looking for a flower which is only in this location - in the colour of a 'tsa-ov be-i-tsa'(yellow part of an egg - yolk). So we went looking - let me tell you, as we only found about 10 of them in total, it was amazing to see that amongst rocks these flowers grew. Stayed there for a bit, playing spot the flower, and then continued. Coming down the hill, the road is not very wide at all, so a big yellow line is drawn to ensure two lanes are kept. noticing that Oori kept wandering on the other side, I told my mum to ask him which side he was driving on, to which he answered the middle. Next thing came a tour bus. With little room already, Oori decided to stop right in the middle of the road, as if the bus was in the wrong (slighty crazy I tell you), and the bus stopped too. After a few seconds of looking at eachother, and hand movements, Oori hesitated, but finally decided to move to the right (Israel drives opposite lanes to Aussieland) - after a few beeps of the hawn from both parties, we were lucky to get through!

The kineret is situation right next to Siriya, and is actually the area that is wanted from Siriya to exchange peace, so during the independence war (and many many others) this area is was hit. So you can see the old arab villages which have been destroyed, and Oori explained that during war you are not allowed to target churches, synagogues, mosques etc etc, so you can still see the remains of such buildings.

Anyway on and on we went driving round the kineret, which by the way is over 300 metres under sea level (dead sea is lower @ over 400 metres below). It finally hits lunch time, we stop beside the first kibbutz made which was Deganya (Yardanit). This is where people are baptised in the River Jordan. So we eat a FEAST here, typical Israeli food, bread, dips, salad, dips, shishkebab, dips etc etc (just GREAT), and after ended with some tea- a flavour of mint & louise (some kind of herb thing), which was also tasty. Then Oori took me to see the people being baptised. The river is full of fish - huge ones let me add, and they all walk in their white gowns straight into it. So I, just to join in, took off my flip flops, rolled up my jeans, and went in (in the NO FISH zone - hahaha).

After this we went to the kibbutz where the restaurant was to have a look at their shop which was filled with dates, chocolate, dried fruit, avocados, halva, and everything else the kibbutz makes - nice to see. Then we moved on to a memorial, which was created by a wealthy woman whos son died. She bought the land, and greated a restaurant and gallery. Walking around, the sun was just started to set, so the scenery became slightly pinkish - really nice. Then looking down I spotted four animals walking together. Not knowing what they were I asked the adults - or whom first claimed they were porcupines, however they had a tail, and I commented they looked like giant rats - I was later informed they were otters. They were quite cute I must say, once it was cleared that they were girant rats.

Then we headed back. Now I want to go for another walk, so talk to you later.

Byeeee

xx

p.s. wait for photos - they will come!!!

I'm in Israel baby!!!

So here I am, after 7 years of not returning I find myself back in Israel, and most importantly on my mums Kibbutz. After waking up at 4:30am, and the painful flight (oh my god I feel sorry for any staff who fly into Israel), I thought the worst was over, however a few little 'oohs' and 'aahhs' from the backstreet drivers made for an interesting trip. And only an hour or so later I was back in Geva.

We drove through Afula, the town where my mum was born, as it is only about a ten minute drive from the kibbutz. There I saw my favourite shops - my falafel joint.......oh it is soooooo good, and the chocolate shop - 'Elite' (Israeli chocolate).

Coming back to Geva really felt like home. By the way, before I go on, Geva is the kibbutz in photo. the row of trees from the water in the bottom of the picture is the road leading up to Geva. The trees are all Gum Trees, which is a nice reminder of dear Aussie Land. Then my Grandmother lives to the left of the road when you get to the Kibbutz - she overlooks the fields from her balcony.

So we caught up on old times, on my lack of Hebrew which I am really noticing now, and her broken English. Anyway had a lovelly Israeli dinner, and then went for a walk around. Although it was at night, so nice to see everything again.

Anyway I am off to bed, tomorrow we are going up North to the sea of Galilee, and surrounding areas. Areas around here, is towards the border, so should be interesting.

Ok shall update tomorrow

xx

wowee it has been a while

Ok I know it has been a while, so here is my chance to catch you all up with me life. Since mummy has been here, we have been busy! Everyday trying to find something new, and do something different. So a few highlights including, Eltham (we were intending to go to the Palace, but instead we found some gardens, walked through, and stayed on the bus to check out the area), Greenwich, Alexandra Palace, Hampton Court (picture right), Muswell Hill and Wilmslow (a little village next to Manchester to see family. Have had a lot of fun I must say.

Hampton Court was amazing - palace of Henry IIIV, and King William. The grounds were amazing - they even had a maze (although it only took 3 minutes to crack), but we managed to stay for the whole day. We then wondered off to the park accross the road, in which we stumbled on some deers - noisy ones might I add.

Then Muswell Hill was a little little area (each suburb is like a little village), here we happened to stumble on Alexandra Palace, which was created as 'the peoples palace', however was left deserted after it was damaged after it caught fire. They have now established a portion of it as the BBC headquaters and an ice-skating rink. The remainder is used as an exhibition centre and hired out for functions. Lovelly view of the city from the top of the hill. As you can see from my mum (left), was a bit of a cold day.

So after these little outings in London, we decided to head to Luton on our way to Manchester. For those of you who know Luton, you can imagine how exciting it is to visit. The highlight for my mum was the great 'ASDA' supermarket.

Anyway next day we were off to Wilmslow, through Derby and Crewe. Had a nice train trip, and was greeted by one of my mums cousin. After meeting family, half of which I had NEVER met, the other half who I hadn't seen for up to 10 years, we were already on our way home. Only a quick trip, however nice to finally catch up. A lot of questions asked about my 'single' status, however I assured them that I am happy......

So now I am getting ready for my trip to Israel on Wednesday. A week of catching up with family, staying in the Kibbutz, travelling to the few towns surrounding, and indulging on FALAFEL (definately one of the biggest highlights of the trip).

So I shall be off - do have internet access so will try and keep you posted as much as possible.

Love to all xx

London with company......

Another day in London. This time with the lovely company of my darling mother. We did A LOT. First stop, Israeli Embassy to get a new passport, however unsuccessful as they are not certain that I can obtain exemption from the army. Mum did try to persuede me to join, however I think I opt not to participate in such acts.

So after departing from Yoni, we were on our own to get lost in London Central. First stop, Kensington Palace and Hyde park. Behind me you can see queen Victoria. Then my mum with a bit of Hyde Park in the background
(auditioning for singing in the rain).

From there we toured Oxford Street, Covent Garden, Trafalgar Square, brief walk along the Thames river, stalked a paparazzi person (photo below), St Paul's Cathedral, Tower Bridge, hopped on and off buses, and finished the day on the tube during peak hours - that means pushing and shoving, standing, no air-con, a variety of smells, rubbish etc. But now home sweet home.

Now we await the arrival of Yoni to cook for us dinner - yummmmmmm xx

Such an exciting life I lead

Well it has been a while since my last entry, whits doesn't resemble the 'busy' and 'exciting' life I have been having. In fact I have embarassingly been at home watching Dawson's Creek. I finished the sixth and finaly season last night/this morning, which left me balling my eyes out!

I am now at my brothers house, awaiting my mums arrival tomorrow which should be fun. From there on there is no agenda. Maybe check out some museums, go on a little overseas trip,hopefully get to Israel etc etc.....

Anyway just wanted to say a quick hi,

until next time....xx

A day in London

A day in London spent with (once again) my fellow Aussies, Ju Ju and Emily. This was a little garden we found near Bartholemow's Hospital [no idea how to spell it so.......]. It was very cute..

more snippets

Rachel,myself, emily and Lisa at the Easyjet bbq - free food and beverages. And no I still dont drink beer, was holding it for a friend ;)

a few shots from training

Myself, Lisa and Emily starring as 'Easyjet's Angels' - in our ever so BRIGHT uniform

Sit back, relax and enjoy the music

Last night I was spoiled to a night of music. My brother look me to the Belmont string Orchestra, which was really enjoyable. I was surprised that I new most of the pieces which I'm sure my dad would be impressed with. A bit of Vivaldi, Bach, Mozart and my favourite Pachabel. Was a great night.

But onto some exciting news - tomorrow is the day! Swans in the Grand Finaly once again peoples. Can't wait! if they win, I will be sure to give you an update, if they lose, dont expect anything for a while.

Love to you all xx

one last snap from italy.....I call it - the PIGS

How can yo resist? When you smell this pizza you will understand. When you taste it - you will understand even more. YOU JUST DONT SHARE! ha ha

This was taken in Genova, sitting overlooking the Sea - great times!

Some familiar faces

Yesterday also had me catch up with some old friends. Dom and Julia from Canberra. For those of you who haven't met this happy little couple, now married couple, Dom was my roommate, and Jules was the girlfriend who would always be over at our house.

Great to catch up with them as they are now living here, so I made them aware that I would expect, as part of our friendship, a lot, a lot of pasta!!! (Dom's mums sauce is to die for!!!!)

I also caught up with an old friend from Thailand, Ling, and as it had been 6 years, great to catch up on everyone and their whereabouts from BPS.

A little walk in the woods

Yesterday, Yoni opted to take me for a walk through the woods, its through a park near a University close by to where he lives. So we wandered through to a farmhouse on the other side to have some lunch, which was quite cute. It was so nice walking through as the day before it had rained, so everything was nice and fresh. And as it was day two of spring, you can start to see the leaves falling.



On the way home, on the outside of the grounds we found this pool, which as you can see is a beautiful GREEN colour. Not so attractive from my perspective!

London photos

This is me at the borough markets at London Bridge - have been back three times in a week- so you can see I am quite a fan of the place. They even have falafel there!!!! mmmmm

more italy....

tower of pisaT

Theatre

My dear brother taking me to Mousetrap at StMartins Theatre

Mr friends showing their true bogan colours - having a 'shower' in a park

more photos

This was our little group - the Aussies. Lisa, Emily, Ju Ju, and me of course. Also in Venice.

Photo time

Well guys - first photo on my blog- this was taken in Venice - a bit strange but pretty cool

Torino

In Torino we opted for the relaxed day. We ate some pasta in a local cafe (delicious) and then went and laid in the park. We really wanted to get a tan, which we did slighty, burn in Ju Ju's case, but we found a little water fountain in the park. What a delight to 4 girls who have been sleeping in a car!!! Shower time baby! One of the girls had shampoo so they even washed their hair in public! how embarassing - the water at the bottom became all soapy!!!hahaha Anyway, we all felt a bit fresher after that.

During the night we drove around inspecting Torino's nightlife, which we didn't find all that exciting so we went and watched a local soccer game. A little stadium half the size of a soccer pitch, but it was great to see, and the skill they had was amazing.

Overnight in Torino we then had our morning in the city before heading home. We decided on the last day to actually use a map to find the Egyptian museum, which didn't really help us as it still took about an hour to find. But we went and checked it out. Our first touristy thing.

After that to the airport, and then home. Sad to be back, but am keeping myself busy looking after a hostel here, so quite fun. Get to meet a lot of people.

So now I have to start studying again for work, try and squeeze another trip in at some point (see how the finances work out), and enjoy time off a little longer.

Hope everyone is well,

keep u posted soon xx

to continue the story

So we finally ended up finding a beach after a little more driving. We found a little fishing area, which had a barrier of marble like rocks dividing land/water. Close were fishing houses with wire catchments, looking a bit more lie south-east asia than Italy. Nevertheless it was nice clear water, and a beautiful drive with the road surrounded by trees arched over it.

After this little detour we opted to try and find a proper beach. After consulting our little railway map we opted for Genova as the next destination. So off we set. Driving through more beautiful valleys and mountains, I spotted a little village which looked to be supported by a brick wall. As all of us were a little curious we ventured off the highway in hope of finding some little backstreet up there. We continued along one road, finally finding a little street which looked to go towards this village. The road, paved and in good condition by all means, was more like an Irish road as it was so narrow. But with only once scare of a crazy motorbike we made it to the top. The view was just spectacular. The village was a bunch of houses built with a brick wall around it, little allyways with only car accessible roads around it. Was lovelly to see such an old place preserved, and you could tell it was old as retired locals were the only individuals to be seen.

After this we continued on our way to Genova. We could see along our drive the sea to our left, only ever so often through valleys as we were so far up. We just made the turn off, as some boys distracted us, however the drive down the valley into the main city was amazing. All houses and apartments built on the mountains, old buildings, even castles on the hill showed what a culture this town had. We drove from one side of the city to the other before we had some dinner. And what do you eat in Italy??? PIZZA - yummmm.....those of you from Canberra, quite similar to that of Cafe Ravello's in Dickson, however still out does that place ten million times! Was gooood. Night three we spent there in Genova, once again in our luxurious car!

Next stop Turin (to the english, Torino to Italians). This was our final stop.

I am so in love with this country!!!

I know an update has been due, but we have been too busy soaking in the lovely country side to even think about finding an internet cafe. Until today of course.

So Friday we leave Gatwick, and fly into Milan, with no plans of what to see, where to go, the language or even any idea of what this country holds. So at the airport, we try and speak to a few people, one of whom was kind enough to give us his old railway time schedule, which had a little map on the front. So standing out the front of the airport, we decide to re-enter and enquire about hiring a car. A few quotes later, we find a place which was located in front of us, but we had to call the head office to book the car. So we did, and we got the car. A little Nissan Micra - never heard of them, but they go alright. First dilema - driving on the right side of the road - takes a bit of getting used to, but a few scares later we got used to it. Second Dilema was where to go. We really had no idea of what to do here, so we thought we would start driving around.

Julie (better known as Ju Ju) then brought up the city of Venice, which on the front of that little railway map seemed like a long way away. So off we went. We started one direction, and then through following signs of what we could make out in English ended up going in the opposite direction. What a mistake this was......so back through Milan, and up a little, we thought to go in the direction which we thought Venice was in. So quick detour of the main road, and we were in the lovely countryside, or whatever we could see as by that time it was dark. Anyway after a little driving around in circles, we managed to get on the highway again, and off we set.

A few hours later we came accross what we expected the outskirts of Venice to be like. So we thought to stop there for the night. Driving around looking for a hostel, or a cheap hotel room we spotted one hotel, which proved to be so dodgy, so luckily we drove off - as quickly as possible. Then we needed a toilet, and we saw a little bar open which a lot of people in it, so we pulled over and made a pit-stop. So after a little discussion we thought it would be best to stay put and sleep in the car. With only minimum sleep and sore backs we ended up leaving for the city of Venice at about 6:30am!!!

After a little circle we finally figured that we had to park the car, and catch a ferry in, and after complying with local ways we hopped on that ferry. Going down the canal for the first time we looked like the typical tourist - all cameras were out, and all we were saying was look here, look there - and nothing could have prepared us for how beautiful it could be. It was just amazing!!! We looked around all day, caught a ferry, went up to a lookout within a cathedral (which was just spectacular), and we all fell in love with this city!!!

So after consulting our railway map, we thought to head south, get on the coastline and then drive to our final destination. So off we headed through the beautiful countryside, driving through mountains, over valleys etc etc. We decided to stop in Pisa for the night. When we got to Pisa, I asked the question (very embarrassing moment for myself) of where actually is the leaning tower of Pisa, as there was no signage to make us think it was there. Lisa told us that it was definately not where we were, but the other three questioned this many times. We made was for the first hostel we saw, which was actually attached to a church - very cute, our window overlooked the countryside, and had grape vines surrounding it. So after we had a shower and felt a little more refreshed we decided to for a drive in the city. Emily spotted something that looked like the leaning tower, but these theories were brushed away by Lisa. Next sighting came from Ju Ju who also saw the same structure and at that point Lisa caught a glimpse as well. There was then hope! We continued driving around, looking for signs, however little was found. Anyway we finally saw it!!!! Oh we all had tears in our eyes.....so we went to celebrate over dinner, and then went on a mission to see it. It was night time, so it was dark, but it was still amazing to see. There we met some boys who were from Rome, but had never been to Pisa, we we had a drink with them, and stuggled with the translation form Italian to English. After went back to the hostel for a proper nights sleep!

So the next day, Sunday, was Fathers Day. I woke up, left the girls asleep, and went to find a phone to call my dad, as my phone had no credit. BUT nothing is open in Italy on Sunday, so an hour later I gave up and went to pick up the girls again. We then went back into Pisa to see the tower in light. It was just like the pictures - great to see. We then headed off to our next destination - the beach.

We ended up down one street which we saw sand the side of so we were reassured that we were going in the right direction. We had two cars infront of us, so we followed them. Then came a sign up, and a bar accross the road preventing you from going forward and saying something in Italian, we made it out to be something like divert and transit....who knows! So we see the cars infront of us made a detour through some trees. We thought of the quote "when in rome, do as the roman's do", so we applied it to this situation. We followed. We ended up in the middle of nowhere so we had to trek back!

Anyway I have to run, as my time is up, will update you with the rest shortly....

miss you all xx

London then....who knows

Very exciting week for us new entrants - first pay week. YAY. I think we are all going to go away on the Thursday, as we do not have that much to do. On Monday we got a lovely little surprise of some friends popping in on us a day early, and since then its been more cards, some soccer (or football as they call it here) and more partying. Still been cooking a lot, which is always fun, but tonight I think it is time to treat myself with a Sunday roast!

Today, my friend Lisa and I are heading to her side of town, Wimbledon. We were meant to have left about 3 hours ago, but with a prolonged sleep such plans were forced to change. So our plans for the next few days include a few more walks around London, this time hopefully stopping at a few museums and galleries. Also hoping to go to a play, but we shall see how we go.

I just checked my updated roster, and it is looking pretty good - I have the 30th September off, which as you all SHOULD know is the AFL Grand Final. So I shall make my way to walkabout somewhere and have a great time. Am very excited....

Anyway time for me to run, hope all is well, keep you posted on where we go and what we do.

Lotsa love,

Maya xx

must remember to do this

Well things have been so busy (not!!!) that I forgot to update you all.

So quick update - graduated on Friday, moved into our new house Friday afternoon, and party at our house Friday night. So enjoyable night, late one without going out even (5am!!!), had about 10 people stay the night, which made it interesting to fit everyone, but who knew that the corridor could be so confortable for some??? (honestly - I was jealous of her for sleeping on the floor).

Since then, went into London to see Yoni, who took me to see Agatha Christie's ' Mousetrap', which was amazing. Such an old school theatre, and it was so nice to see such a culture, which is pretty much non-existent in Australia.

So since then, have been trying to organise tv, phone etc etc. Hopefully soon should have a landline, so I can call u all. Until we have another form of entertainment (ie. TV) it has been cards after cards. Games we have played - Cheat, Big 2, Slaves and Masters, one from boarding school, snap, s***head, speed, spit, one that these polish guys taught us which we call ibis etc etc..... Gets quite confusing when trying to remember which one u are playing at the time.

Anyway I have to run

talk soon xx

Graduation

Peoples,

I am sooooo excited - I graduate today, AND move into my new house!!! YAY for me.

Yesterday had my most enjoyable day on the course I think, learnt about terrorism, hijackings, explosives etc.......very interesting.

Anyway have to run to go and get my 'wings' - talk later.

Maya xx

One day to go....

Well as time continues to fly past, it means I only have one day of academy to go. AHHHH. But I can't fly straight away. For those of you that have read Air Babylon, they talk about a '5 year history' - where you have to account for pretty much anything you have done for more than 14 days -- so annoying!

Things have been fun - having a good time with all the people at work, as we are all seperating tomorrow :(

Anyway I will have to explain everything soon. Passed my first aid test with 98% - no complaints!

Miss you all - take care
xx

House for Maya

So one week to go of training, haven't looked at many places (only one to be exact, by some sleazy guy - ewww), and I start thinking to myself it might be time to get myself into gear. So in trying to keep in contact with friends outside the course, I went back to the hostel. Spoke to Isel (who owns it), and she had two girls who were staying who had jobs with Ryan Air, and were looking for somewhere. So they gave me the number of a guy whos house they had seen and said was good. So that day I called, we went to look at the place, and got it!!! Me and two other girls (one aussie, one pom), and it is all of 5 minutes walk to where I can get the free bus to the airport. We move in on Friday, so thats all exciting.

Other updates, had a fun night last night - I have been dying for a roast, with vegies, gravy etc etc. So as you can only get it in pubs on Sundays here, off we all went. We invited a group of pilots with us, who we met a day earlier (some only that night), so it was nice to have a lot of people. Even a female pilot (poor thing, she was the only girl in the course, and she rocked!!!). So yeah, stayed there for a while, and went back to the hotel. Got to see some cool footage they had taken during their initial training in smaller planes. One clip (an official publication) was of a plane landing in equador - the airport is in the middle of the city. Very cool to see.

So now I have just finished my three days of first aid. Had to watch a video of how to give birth - which confirmed for me that it will be the most painful thing (and most disgusting thing) ever to happen. People then thought it would be appropriate to share that in some cultures they eat the placenta - HOW GROSS!!!! ewwww.........was a bit stand offish with lunch, but had to eat something. Thank god thats going.

Well thats about it for now. Hope you are all well.

Lots of love,

Maya

update

It has been a while since my last update, so thought I should make more of an effort to keep you informed. Well today, as I'm sure you are all aware, a terrorist attack has been uncovered regarding blowing up planes over the atlantic. So get on the work bus today, and notices are up informing people of the limitations on hand luggage etc etc - a bit scary, but how are you ever going to stop it from happening.

Work has been fun, more practical stuff - I have officially learnt the safety demonstration - ha ha a lot of fun I must say. We then got to hop on a plane and have a play etc.

Monday I had days off so went to visit my brother. Great to see him, and as a true brother showed how protective he is, whilst spoiling me rotten. He made my first bed on the floor since I have been here, and for that I am grateful!!!

Well I must be off now,

chat soon to you all xx

Another day on the job

Well yesterday proved exciting, learning about the Boeing aircraft.......in which I unfortunately dropped the exit door on the instructors door (oops)......she didnt't make me feel good about it either.

Today is our first day in uniform, so photos will be taken (and posted up shortly too I hope), so we are all a little excited. However this is dampened by a test which we have this morning (anoher one!!!), so once that is finished, we get to celebrate our uniform. Although the colours are extremely offputting, once you are all wearing it, its not too bad.

Anyway test calls - have to run xx

Heat

Well I love my warm weather, but after downing 3 bottles of water, and two sugar drinks, I can safely say that it can get too hot! Been on a nice walk up and down the beach (probably about two hours in total).

Woke up relaxed at about 9ish, came down for breakfast and set out for the beach - and how nice it was......stayed there for a few hours and became restless, so off I set....was a nice walk, a lot of bars, restaurant, and shops filled with souvenirs....I feel a little resemblance to Thailand though, as nothing is open until about 10:30-11:00, so I´m presuming it stays open late. That is my mission tonight though - to check that out.

Ok I shall be off, byeeeeeeee

Palma de mallorca

You´ll be pleased to hear - I PASSED my stupid exam this morning, so as you would expect I was a happy little girl this morning, and of course still am.

Finished class at 9:30, and left all the others who are to be based at Gatwick airport there, as they have airbus training. Being at Luton, we only use Boeing aircrafts... So off I went back to the hotel, to pack. An hour later, I wondered into Luton airport, boarded my first easyjet flight, and a quick little trip over Europe, and here I am in Palma.

What a different place - flying in I could notice this little houses (what I would imagine mexico to look like), and windmills next to each of them - so cute. Flew over some high mountains, which I have been told have snow on them during winter. Couldn´t picture that at all, seeing as though it is 36 degress, the entire population seems to be on the beach, and everyone is black!!!! Poor white pom´s who come over - they really stand out.....ha ha

So after a little bit from a regular visitor, Gabrielle (from Italy), and this other weird guy, I found my hostel. No complaints, I have an entire room to myself, with a key - so its 24 hours, two second walk from the beach, and free breakfast in the morning.

So I went for a walk along the beach, and am now going to retire to my room to relax, and write some letters.

So laylatov

Exam time

And I thought I wouldn't have to have another exam again in my life! What a pest!

So today is D-Day - a test regarding theory of safety equipment and procedures which we follow - not fun.

BUT after a hard day at work, I get to relax - so afterwards, I have to run back to the hotel, pack and jump on a plane to Palma (what a shame????). I am going by myself, but no complaints as I get to write another destination in my little book of mine, and another stamp in my passport.

So, I shall let you know how beautiful it is, and how much fun I will have at another time.

byeeeeee xx

Training

How cool is this???? today I got to sit in a little mock plane - like a simulator kinda thing. So much fun. Got to try on all of the safety equipment, learnt more about staff travel, and hopefully going to book something for my days off Monday/Tuesday. Not sure if I mentioned but I think I might go to Palma for the night - £30 return!!! (Next to Ibiza Island) - how much fun is this going to be for me??????? AHHHHHHH So excited.

Training is pretty fun - learnt today that we get to go in the cockpit for one flight - how cool is that???

Anyway hope you are all being good

talk soon xx

What do I get for working wih easyjet???

Well yesterday we were informed how exactly we can get staff travel. There is an intranet amongst the company, and a section in there which we can book not only travel, but accommodation, car hire etc etc. Staff travel starts from day 1 (YAY), and you can nominate 3 people. My brother is the first, however looking to fill the next two spots. My old room mate and wife are moving to London so they might come on board, however I can change my nominees 12 times a year! So if any of you come over for a month or so - we are going to travel baby! My nominees can also travel on their own, I just have to book it for them.

The next little perk is that for today, or what ever day it is at the time, they will show you al of the standby flights which have seats under staff travel remaining. So if I have a day off and haven't organised anything - on the intranet I shall get, and off I go. It isn't free - however we checked out the costs, and it seems that for London through to Athens it would cost me £39 return!!! so $100!!!!! How exciting. I have monday and tuesday off - thinking of going somewhere I can assure you.

Have met a lot of people through the course, mostly hanging around the Aussies I must say, but mingle with everyone which is nice. Already have a little group outside of the course from the Hostel, who call me every night to see what I'm up to, so thats nice.

Can't wait to see my brother who gets back into London on the weekend, and then catch up with old friends from Thailand/Ireland at some point.

So there is the update for now,

take care & shall keep you posted.

Mayaxx

p.s. tomorrow is the wet drill - swimmers required - how fun!

easyjet - its official - cool

Just a quick note to you all. Day one was just paperwork, nothing to talk about really. Met people, saw the tiny rooms which you share with one other for a month - no fridge, begs next to one another (pushed togther), no iron even!!! Suits me (as most of you know).

Then it was out on the town - after not eating all day we decided to go and eat at Pizza Hut - what a feast we had! Too much, so ate the left overs today for lunch (we are practical).

Then out to one of the clubs, and then I had my friend from the hostel take me to a pub just outside Luton - so nice and cosy - very cool!! We just sat outside in the beer garden over looking the lovely scenery.

Then today - back in - and the training starts. Oh my god - tonight I will be sure to update you all on the great staff travel deals! Monday I have a day off - I'm going baby!

Miss you all - have ot run now, will keep you posted!

xx

Back at school today

As the days have cloked by, its time to realise that I can no longer sit around and do nothing all day. So time to start work! My first day today, and I guess I have a combination of nerves and adrenalin at this point in time.

So I shall send you a little update tonight.

Over the past few days I have stayed in the hostel, caught up on desperate housewives, been out walking, resorted back to my profession as receptionist, and taken care of the hostel for one night, and been out with one of the locals here to one of the bars - the white.....something or other - I dunno! Not as flash as greystones, but good music and even a bit of a dance floor which looks promising!

Anyway time for me to get ready!

have a great nights sleep for most of you.....xx

Day three

Well I'm now up to day three and already find myself having to relax. Yesterday completely killed me. The lady who runs the hostel said I looked like a ghost even - but today I am feeling better. Woke up @ 12 - so jet-lag is now taken care of.

Then been stressing myself of how I can find out the swans scores, as the internet blocks pop-ups here - so lucky my dear friend Paul rescued me.

Yesterday I learnt two useful facts - eftpos cards are strictly to be called debit cards! and the @ symbol on UK keyboards is where " is (how dumb???).

Anyway time for me to go.

Miss you all heaps xx

wowee

What a day....

Of course I had no luck recovering from jet-lag immediately, so 5am comes along, and guess who's wide awake....Not happy Jan! Kind woke up the other guy in the room, thinking his flight was early - in fact it was at 10am - oops! Oh well he fell back asleep.

So today I decided to waste no time - mobile phone number and bank account - done! What a hassle. So much more expensive for mobiles here - I don't know how I'm going to cope. Although I do have 300 free text messages if I by my credit on the same day of every month (how weird????)

So after that was done, I opted for a train ride into Piccadilly Circus (Monopoly stop #2). Since then I have walked pretty much non-stop. A few of the sites I can recall - Leister Square, Whitehall, Northumberland, Pall Mall, Euston Rd, Trafalgar Square, Oxford St(enough of the addictive boardgame), Westminster, London Eye, Buckingham palace, Hyde Park and the list goes on....

I even walked into my first walkabout pub - disappointed however that they are not going to be showing the swans game as the stupid rugby is on - oh well - internet cafe for me.

Anyway I must be off - going to catch up with an old friend from Thailand tonight (YAY I have a friend here).

byeeeee

quick one

Also a bit of a blast from the past.....caught one of those old fashioned taxis - however a modern version. Still pretty cool - I was happy

Ok night night

I did it!!!!!!

Well I did it - I'm here!

What a day - 12 hour flight, with a crazy drunk man on board, luckily not sitting next to me, great food once again (highly recommend Thai airways food!!!), slightly dodgy movies, but a easy trip. Sat next to a nice lady coming to visit her fiancee, so she has offered to tell me a few places to see. After the flight is when it started.

Heathrow airport - awful! No aircon - which is horrible when its +30 degrees - lines of people waiting to go through customs, and then marathon underground track to get to the train station! With no lifts too might I add - a great deal of thanks must go to the boys who helped me with my 26k suitcase, whilst I had my 20k backpack on my shoulders. Then on the train, again without aircon, it was overcrowded which was a 45 minute trip leaving me at Kings Cross - yes everybody monopoly station number one crossed off, only about 27 to go! Then transfered trains, met a nice lady who is in real estate, so she had offered to help me find accommodation - yay for me! After that hoped in a taxi and here I am at the hostel! (10:15pm - 4:15am Bangkok time, 7:15am Australia time)

So tomorrow I get to go and explore.....so until then sleep time for me.....layla tov

(crazy thing - I'm not that tired!)

The time has come.....

Well peoples.....the time has come.

Unlucky me leaving Thailand, but a new adventure lies ahead.

Had a great time in Bangkok with my mummy. Non-stop shopping, massage daily, great food, great people, great weather - what more do you want??? Plently of Israeli's - even Thai's speaking Hebrew which really freaked me out. But what a great place - for those of you that have not been - go to Thailand, and stay in Bangkok!!!

So now I fly out to London, and start a new life - so I shall be sure to keep updating this site to inform you of the exciting, non-stop life that I am walking into (I hope).

Take care