the start

The trip has begun, and I have successfully navigated the duty free stores they place as obstacles in the departure lounge without a purchase (although the digital SLR with 2 lenses for $699 was tempting). I'm now armed with fisherman's friends to keep my cold at bay, ear plugs and a new pink highlighter for the lonely planet guide to coastal California which will be my main read on the plane. A special thanks to all those who helped me get organised for the trip - especially Russell who kindly escorted me to the airport via Highpoint ANZ to sort out visa card pins! Next blog should be from the beach somewhere on the West coast!