I made it!!! I love it. Everything about the trip and my first day here have been magically wonderful. I met friendly people on the flights, had on entire bench (3 seats) to myself on my 15 hour Qantas flight from L.A. to Melbourne, and slept most of the way (thanks April for your stellar suggestions for sleeping meds and a neck pillow). I finally realized that I was really headed to Australia when I boarded our double decker plane and was surrounded by Australian accents. In addition to a survival kit including an eye mask for sleeping, there was on-demand TV/movies/games in the back of each seat with a removable remote control in the arm of each seat. Flying in style!
I was greeted by my new boss Andrew at the airport. He proceeded to give me a whirlwind driving tour of the city, the office, and my new neighborhood, St Kilda. After dropping my bags at my apartment (truly spectacular - I am even more delighted than I expected), Andrew and I walked to a cafe on Fitzroy St for coffee (major street a couple blocks from my apt). He proceeded to give me a deluxe bag full of "welcome to Melbourne" materials including the lonely planet guide to Melbourne (good thing we didn't buy that one Jill). He seems so friendly, helpful and laid back. Everyone does. People in Texas are very nice, but there's something different about the people here - overly kind, helpful, as though each and every person you meet, purchase something from, or talk to is your own very best friend. I'm told this is a Melbournian trait. We walked down to the beach which is only a few blocks further, then back to the apartment. Twice today I was introduced as "this is Jen and it's her first day in Melbourne" to servers, and both times I was treated as a long lost friend.
I unpacked into my new room. Even with everything I need for two years packed into two suitcases, a duffel bag, and a backpack (plus laptop), I still realized that I brought more than I needed. Then came the much awaited and immensely enjoyed shower. Aah!
This afternoon, I explored the other major streets that are nearby - Barkly and Acland Streets. It was walking along Acland and sitting outside at a cafe enjoying a sandwich for lunch that I realized how very much at home I felt. The neighborhood is fantastic - very urban, diverse, lots of unique eccentric shops, close to the beach and a huge park. I purchased a couple things... a hair dryer and a plug converter. I'm in a little bit of sticker shock. I feel like things are very expensive here. I don't really know if I'm being taken or if that's just how much things cost. My travel book says Melbourne prices are 80% of NY prices. A bottled water or bottle of soda cost A$3 each. Hair products (shampoo/conditioner) are triple the price in Texas. Tax is already included in prices, and the U.S. dollar is a little stronger than the Australian dollar (AUD or A$). However, there's one thing that's definitely cheaper.
Wine! I went to a tapas bar called Fringe tonight with Anneli (the owner of the apartment who is going to Broome for the next 3 months) and my new flatmate Phillip (from England, working for the next year throughout Australia). Wine was A$3.50 a glass. What a bargain. Both were wonderful, they've had so many experiences in so many different places, and are so cultured! This is going to be so much fun.
Well, it's 10:30 pm, I've survived jet lag from my first day (no naps!), and I'm looking forward to a full day ahead.
