feb 18

FEB 14, 2012

We finally arrived in Sydney after a 14 hour flight which was never ending The flight was made a little
easier because we were in Premium Economy so the leg room was better, the seats were wider and
the service was better but no matter how good it was, it was still 14 hours. No matter how you look at it,
it as 31 hours of traveling
Getting off the plane was wonderful; we had something called "meet and assist". They took our carry
ons off the plane, wheeled us to customs, got our suitcases, took us to immigration, (where we thought
we'd have a problem with food stuff and drugs) and we basically went right through. They even took us
outside where they got us a cab and off we went. The cab ride was 63.00 Aus. which will convert to
more. Got to the Sheraton 4 points in Darling Harbour and since it was so early they didn't have a room
for us. We went to the hotel buffet and breakfast was 35.00 Aus per person so we are finding out how
expensive Sydney really is.
Took a cab to the hospital because the Dr. at home wanted me to follow up in 2 days. I have had my
first taste of socialized medicine and it stinks big time. I was there 2 hours before they even took me for
an xray and then I waited for another hour before we finally walked out. Since I was the only paying
patient I couldn't believe how this process works. They told me I would have to pay and before they
even took them they told me it would be 105.00. Then when I went to pay they said it was 115 so I
questioned it and was told that 105 was for the x-ray and the 115 was to see the doctor. I think waiting
an other hour after they said 'he'd be right out" was more than enough. Took another cab back to the
hotel and here I am relating our exciting day. So far this isn't a vacation.
HAPPY VALENTINES DAY to all of you.