Down Unda!

After a good wave session at Kuau and a margarita at Milagro's in Paia, it was off to points South!  Way South!  First a stop at Sammy Hagar's bar at the Kahului Airport.

Air New Zealand is the best airline I have flown on thus far. The planes are clean, with plenty of leg room, and the attendants are on it! They served dinner and breakfast, both of which were of above average quality as far as airline food goes. They offered us beer, wine and champagne. The VIP lounge at the airport was also outstanding.  Good food and drink.  A beer at 9AM?  It's 9 AM somewhere! Cheers!

Our journey to Australia brought us through Auckland and then on to Melbourne. After about twenty-two hours of flight we checked into the Crown Hotel. The hotel is across the river from downtown Melbourne and features a casino.  Rick and I went to grab a bite to eat at one of the many riverfront eateries.  The weather was sunny and warm.

Mick is recognized worldwide.  Here he stops in the airport to sign an autograph and chat with a fan.

Keep a walkin'!

The Yarra river runs through Melbourne.   Designated as the Sri Chinmoy "River of Peace," it reminds me of the Charles River in Boston with all the rowing teams in training.   A pedestrian bridge takes you across the river to the downtown area which is an interesting blend of older architecture and newer skyscrapers.  The river represents the peace which flows from one's deeper self out into the ocean, which is the world.  I like that.  Bummer it looks so polluted!

The exchange rate is nearly 1:1 between the US and Aus. dollar.  The prices, however, are a bit higher.  With a thirst for some local brew, I dropped into a liquor store and was blown away by the price of booze.  Beer prices run about double what they do in the States.  I picked up a 6-pack of Cooper Ale for about 15 bucks.  I had been told that the Aussies really enjoy their drink, but I wondered how they could afford it.  The liquor store attendant informed me that many folks spend their whole paychecks on booze, which doesn't seem hard to do!  He was amazed that we only spend a little over a buck a beer for a decent libation.  Looks like a good time to go on the wagon!  Hmmmm.

Tip of the day: Don't bother asking for an "Americano" at the cafe'.  Just say "Strong Latte" and  they will know what you mean.

Today we have a tech-rehearsal to make sure everything is in order for tomorrows gig at the Hi-Fi bar. http://www.thehifi.com.au/events/mick-fleetwood-7631/

Thanks to Tad Craig for lending me his point and shoot!
www.tadcraigphotography.com