h2g2 The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy: Earth Edition

Hi Bubble.

This'll be brief, on account of a massive amount of backlog, but then there's no reason why I should try to tell you everything at once.

I'm jealous of you being based in Sydney not because I want to be based there, but because in Sydney one gets a definite sense of being *somewhere*. That doesn't happen in Canberra. There's only about 350,000 people here, and they're spread over a large area; there are very few true landmarks, and certainly none as recognisable as that bridge; and the weather's erratic. Dry most of the time, hot in summer and freezing in winter. The shopping's better in Sydney, too. (Mind you, it's better still in Melbourne.)

Canberra isn't really 'home' for me; that's Adelaide, which is too far (1300km) away for frequent visits. Adelaide's more fun than Canberra, too. But my job's here, so here I stay.

I manage to get to Sydney a few times a year; usually just for a rushed weekend, but sometimes for a bit longer. I've even managed to be at a hootoo meet there...

That reminds me - here's the Australia & NZ researchers' page. A592049 Do join us, if you feel so inclined...

Ivan.

Ivan

Canberra sounds very different, still not sure that I know what to expect with Sydney ie weather, shopping, getting around, having only been here for 2 weeks! But slowly I am learning

I take the Rydale ferry, along the Parramatta River, into the city, which I noticed on your 'my space', you have taken also. This is a most pleasant experience, and beats London Underground any day! Seeing the commuters with a smile on their face is a breath of fresh air.

For all its wonders, it is quite an expensive place to live, mind you not as expensive as London. The people are far more friendly, inviting and really do want to help you.

Thanks for the reference to researchers page, I shall have a look when I get a chance

Must

If you need any information on the practicalities of Australian life, apart from navigating around Sydney that is, feel free to ask... (I'm from the Government, and I'm here to help you. )

I'm sure there was some incredibly significant thing I was going to mention here, but it's slipped my mind. The weekend has been a little festive, you see, and my brain hasn't yet recovered. Whatever it was, I'm sure I'll remember one day.