Melbourne and More

Had a short day in Melbourne, getting off to a hot and humid day after 10 or so.  By the time we got off  the ship,went through Customs, got our myki cards for public transport, walked to the tram stop it was already mid-morning.

Found Target and had a browse but didn't see anything wearable for myself.  Dieter got himself a dashing new short sleeved shirt, navy with Australian wildflowers in red and white, and another dark blue t-shirt. 

Couldn't get my bearings for some reason and as we had to be back on board by 3pm we didn't have enough time for the art gallery which I had been looking forward to.  Another time, another trip hopefully.  Did make time for a good cup of coffee at a trendy cafe.  By this time it was lunchtime and the streets and trams were packed with people out and about for lunch.  

Found the right tram and the right direction to get back to the port, then a warm walk back to the ship and the long queues of people waiting to get on. In-transit passengers had their own shorter queue, thank goodness.  Now there are 2000 new passengers on board, milling around familiarising themselves with the different venues and restaurants.

This is the second of three days at sea, so a lot of sleeping, eating and reading are our main occupations. The Christmas decorations are up and I heard Christmas carols being played in the background at breakfast this morning.  The patisserie buffet even has a delicious stollen which we have been indulging in.  

Haven't found the aerobic studio yet but it sounds a bit energetic to me.  The decks are also a bit windy for promenading.  It is warmer than it was in NZ waters and the larger number of children and teens are enjoying the pools.  Don't think my bathing suit will get wet somehow.  I will be going to the gym next Monday to get fit again once I am home.  

There are more family groups aboard now, and quite a few Asian travellers.  Have not come across many of the Kiwis aboard. We blend in like our feathered counterparts.

Today I went to a technology session, making the most of your Smartphone, all about apps.  Unfortunately my iPad was out of action for a couple of days and wasn't loading but it has come back to life again and I will be busy answering and reading my emails.  

Tonight is a formal night and I will be dressing up in my finery for the occasion.  The Rhapsody Trio is playing at 6 pm so better get a move on now.