I assumed we would be staying in dormitory-style hotel or guesthouse in Sydney. I though we'd try Manly Beach, a popular tourist and traveller's spot.

We got a bus to the main Ferry terminal from the airport and took a ferry to Manly. Perhaps we would find a place there.

I left E.J. in a cafe' to watch the bags, and set out to find a bed for the night.

I lived in Manly briefly a few years ago (with Elaine, and it was 11 years ago.) It made more sense for me to go and look - I knew the area.

I wandered around Manly, to all the places I knew or could remember from my long stay in Manly years ago.

I checked out one place, and I was not really ready for such a low standard. The place was totally trashed with rucksacks, debris and remains of takeaway food. I don't like the idea of sleeping with a bunch of people I don't know, especially sloppy ones.

We definitely didn't want to stay in that environment. I checked out a few more, and not only were they full to capacity - they weren't much better.

I reported to E.J. the results of my search. It wasn't looking good. THEN I had a brainwave! The place where my old friends Caren and Steve had lived all those years ago, The Manly Pacific, might have something open. They're usually long term rentals, but why not...

It's in a great apartment block overlooking the beach..

We wandered over through the rain that was picking up.

I could barely hold back my excitement when they said YES, They have an apartment! We're in!!

Hurrah, more luxury ~ I like luxury!!