Cutty

When I went to the capital of South Australia for a quick visit, I had no expectations. I hadn't heard much about Australia and it didn't interest me enough to read about it.  I've known about it through trashy romance novels and history classes. The People: Australians are quite different from most Asians, not only in looks but also in ways.  The major difference that struck me was that they keep to themselves.  They do not mind other people.  They do not measure people up by looking at what purse she's carrying or if she's wearing hip clothing.  Each person is free to just BE.  There's no pressure to keep up with The Joneses. They are also very keen on following the law.  Because of very steep fines, they are very strict in obeying the policies.  In the airport, mobile phones can't be turned on until the you get past customs.  I was observing everyone and everyone was very obedient.  If it were here in the Philippines, it would've...

It seems that my trip is very timely.  When I arrived last week, I didn't realize that Australia is having the Financial Year End Sale.  But, it was of no use to me.   Everything is really expensive here. What I am looking forward to is the Great Singapore Sale.  Since I had to stay the night in Singapore for my connecting flight to Manila, I decided to stay a bit longer so I can explore the city.  I managed to book the latest flight in the afternoon so I had at least 6 hours to waste on Orchard Rd.  Nyehehe! Oh SIA, why do I only have 20kgs?  Sa vino pa lang kulang na.

It was a whirlwind trip, right from the start. After 10 million years, I eventually received my Australian Visa last Wednesday.   Two hours later, after talking my mother into looking after the kids while I'm gone, my ticket is ready.  Since I've been monitoring the airfare rates to Oz and back, I already knew which flights I'll be getting.   Thank God for online booking! I arrived in Adelaide on Friday morning.  I got in just in time for the long weekend.  It was the Queen's birthday, you know. While Vic was in the office, I explored the Rundle Mall and the Central Market. The following day was spent touring around Victor Harbor and Glenelg courtesy of Filipino friends.  Sunday was for hearing mass, shopping in Ikea and doing chores.  Monday was Wine Tasting day at the Barossa Wineries.  Today, Tuesday, I checked out the local outlet shops.  I have a few more days left before I head back home to my children.    ...

Two weeks ago, when Vic and I were reeling from separation anxiety, we frequently checked airline rates, just to see if we can afford to be together for just a few weeks.  When Cathay Pacific came out with US$383* for a trip to Adelaide, we decided to submit an application to the Australian Embassy. I was fortunate that the US Embassy didn't ask for any documents from me.  I was able to use those for this application.  I filled up the appropriate visa form, prepared all other proofs of income and ties to the Philippines, and had my picture taken.  I also had to secure a Manager's Check worth P4700 for the Visa Application.  Once everything was ready, I submitted it to the VIA Center in Arnaiz.  In the end, I had to pay P600 for the processing and passport delivery.  I was given a tracking number that I can use at via.ph.   Though I can have the courier pick up the application from my place, I opted to submit it personally.  There ...

My husband's been in Oz for 5 days now and he is bored to death.  Establishments close at 5PM.  No wonder band gigs happen at 3PM.  I am not sure if it's the same way in the bigger cities.  I know that it is going to be difficult to beat homesickness and the winter blues if that's everyday life. I'm glad he is enjoying the fresh cheeses and cold cuts from the nearby open market.  It's also nice to know that there's a Filipino store just a few blocks away. We've been thinking of me joining him there.  It'll be just for a few weeks, before Johann's school starts.  Ewan.  We still have to factor in Visa processing.  Baka pauwi na siya by the time I'm ready to leave.  Oh well.  I am just waiting for his decision.