Robot Claw

The flight was uneventful. I watched three movies, read half a Conan novel and listened to a lot of Depeche Mode before we landed about a half hour before schedule. The airport was busy and security/customs took about an hour. After the usual routine (money exchange, buying a SIM) it was time for the ‘Hello Kitty’ Haruka express to Osaka city:

I had sprung for the highest class seat and was the only one in the first class cabin! It was extremely comfortable, especially after the plane:

The trip was about 35 minutes followed by another half hour or so on the Osaka Loop Line to Osaka station and then a short walk to my hotel.

That’s my home for four days, and I’m on the 28th floor with an amazing view:

I’m extremely tired now, and I’ve got a big plan for tomorrow. Time for bed!

I took mum to Sydney for some shopping as a Christmas gift. We walked around for over 7 hours and visited many shops and had a great time.

We also stopped at the Cathedral to light some candles and check out the nativity, and it didn’t disappoint!

Mum had never stayed in a ‘fancy’ hotel so I splurged and got us nice rooms at the Sheraton in Hyde Park. She was astonished by how nice it was and by the size of her room 🙂

The true astonishment came the following morning. I used my charm upon checking in and was rewarded with a free continental breakfast for both of us. And when we went down to eat this morning our minds were boggled!

The selection was endless. Of course all the usuals were included (in spades) but they also had roast meats, a fresh fruit juicery, a fried noodle station (with chef), a congee bar, all sorts of seafood items, various egg and potato dishes, a massive salad bar and more and more. I’ve seen some impressive buffet breakfasts in my time (Hawaii comes to mind) but this was another level!

Due to trackwork (which required a coach for some of the way), extreme heat and a train breakdown the trip home was taxing. But we made it safe and sound and it’s good to be home and out of the heat.

A successful trip, and one mum says she’ll remember for a long time 🙂