flashman181

Devoted followers are no doubt gagging for some info on my travel plans for next year so in a Festivus miracle will reveal all now. Good things come in threes they say so lets go with that. Last years exercise of “No Way USA” worked quite well although still yearn at times but then remember the asshat is still in charge for want of a more apt term.

So then its easy to go back to Sydney and Melbourne every year but lets throw in an appetising entree first – Hobart! Looking at February and you do need to plan well as Qantas only fly a Fokker every third day it seems . This necessitated a shortish 6 night stay or a longer and more expensive visa and relocation. Was able to line up available dates with suitable accommodation – Lenna – so booked both today. It is on an Embraer 190 which is fine when in business class and in a suitable nod for any returning Taswegians they have a row of single seats on one side so that their two heads dont impact on passenger adjacent. Thoughtful.

Onto Melbourne then and will have some excess baggage – yes CLP is joining in. Were going to do a long road trip but initial plans and itineraries did not really grab so went back to old reliable of Fly in and Fly out from Melbourne. A week in the city but also about 5 nights with John and Lorraine in Harcourt and also a few nights in Bendigo to do some gold mining. Looking at May when it does start to get tres pleasant in that area. Finally then a return to The Grace (without Grace) for a 10 night stay in Sydney when August rolls around . All cobbled together should sate the wanderlust for another year hopefully

And so as they say in the classics “If Mohammed wont go to the Mountain then we will tie him down and tattoo the bloody thing on his chest” Or something like that, translations can be difficult. Ergo need for an NYC tattoo. CLP and I were together in Brisvegas and watched the Broncos win the GF and it was a wonderful memory and also a never to be repeated sporting trifecta methinks for Brisbane ( and the ladies could make it 4 this weekend ). Shortly after I became aware of the “Lioncos” meme and it struck me as clever and also very distnctive – especially now that someone paid Scotty from Marketing $3million to butcher the logo and make parents buy their kids all new jerseys now 😦 Throw in the previous boxing gloves tatt and we have a trifecta – try and keep up

Can I just add that tattoos come with a little bit of pain at times but especially on the chest! Of interest will be when chest hair grows back whether can line it up with Leo’s Mane? Never say never of course but from what started back in Las Vegas in Feb 2024 has now concluded in my view. Unless Cam Smith wins The Masters next year …… People who dont have tattoos dont understand the appeal and thats fine

Speaking of sport then my good luck charm CLP (April 13th next year Monday 3 am for final round ok?) was also adjacent with the Pasting in Perth. I didnt get another tatt but did consider a hair cut

Some folk love the 2-3 day tests but must be a financial disaster for some especially ACB. Very thoughtful of Allan Moffat to hang on until I finished his jigsaw. Easily a Top 5 Sporting Memory of all time for me

In the land of TV have certainly been some great shows with The Beast in Me perhaps the pick for me. Also some great satire around with Buffoon Bob in full flow with John Stewart being the pick as usual. Never been a big South Park fan but their Trump stuff this season has been mostly gold – the Satan stuff is boring now but the Melania episode was brilliant

A very quiet Halloween for me especially in this geriatric neighbourhood. Just spent the night chilling with best bud watching the latest Kardashian thriller All Thats Fair.

I did sneak out for a quick overnighter to Paris last month for unveiling of my new portrait in The Louvre. Was able to pay for the trip with some jewels I found just laying around on the floor . Knobber Knobber

Was also a great opportunity to try out my new Gortex travelling Outfit. Worked a treat for that long flight. Hum along now – I think I’m turning Japanese I really think so

Only other issue of note is the weather I guess. Cant recall such a “nasty” summer for a long time and we may yet get the worst yet coming our way this afternoon. The Dome was last sighted off New Caledonia I think. My general approach is rain good, storm bad. The wind in particular has been quite alarming

Oh and I had a colonscopy on Monday and all clear – much like my last visit of many to toilet that morning 🙂 If I get to 73 supposed to have another one then but could take some convincing

And so we come to the end – hopefully – of a great 9 nights in Sydney. Already keen to come back next year more in winter time but will see when dust settles how I feel . Do have a road trip planned next year with CLP around May but could certainly see a solo trip again here in July with still no big OS trips planned in foreseeable future. To be honest not sure could cope with an international flight. Already stress too much about a simple domestic flight and the problems that can occur . Of course train trip, check in and security all flew through as knew would happen and in QC at 7 am with boarding at 10 am . Hopefully. Sydney not as easy as Brisbane which has dedicated entry for QC members . Thought it would be busier at this time of morning. Even lounge is quiet

And so , let’s get slide rule out and check a few things

Qantas Business Class is a good product even on short flights if can justify expense. With no plans to renew QC membership again Business domestically is worth it for only maybe two flights a year !

The Grace is a keeper much like Langham in Melbourne and really for around $300 pn for a top room good value when you check CBD prices . It has soft beds and some street noise but get latter with location. The location is superb really. Pool could be better as also gym but perfectly acceptable.

The laneway bar scene is actually better here than in Melbourne for me . Once again don’t take much advantage of any great eating options but certainly there.

The public transport system is great with the ferries and light rail. Not cheap mind you

Sydney is a great walking city especially in CBD.

The Harbour is a stunning backdrop simple as that.

The issue to consider really is whether a year is sufficient break before coming back. When considering that the main reason for the ‘25 experience was to try and capture some of that magic of walking around big cities from OS early in the morning and it passed well on that point. It’s no NYC of course but that is not necessarily a bad thing 😏

Some quick Flashies as know you are gagging

Best Bar : Maybe Sammy . Really a theatre bar and with a good crowd loads of fun

Best Negroni : PS 40 Breakfast Negroni

Best Beach : Bondi early morning

Best Ferry Ride : Manly Fast Ferry

Best Walk : Early morning around Bangarangalangadoodoo

Best Coffee : Tough One. Probably Batch Espresso on York Street

Best Bar with a View : Sydney Tower . Library Bar a close second

So overall some wonderful memories. Now comes the reality check. Need referral for an ENT guy as this nose is a pain at present. Also need to chase up on a 5 year colonoscopy check although not sure needed. And of course winter is over and 6 months of hell await 😏

All on track it seems so will sign off now. My sweet pea is generously taking me back to Flashman Inc today despite staying in Brisvegas at present ❤️ Home to Maryhole first thing tomorrow .

Update : Think those two trains ran my plans off track. So after 17 hrs in lounge thought would head down early as my 17 apps (spooky) informed my incoming plane had landed . It had and great unwashed off loaded . Assured anytime now us Group 1 elite would be boarding they said. But the door to air passage remained closed , well past boarding time. Then the dreaded message came over “ delay due to engineering issue “. Not good. Then it even flashed up on Flight Board which had not seen before. Then you look further down and last plane with issues was cancelled . Apparently they turned the computer on and off at the wall and all good to go about 30 mins late but we will make up some time in air surely 😏 It’s a 65 min flight so even in BC you don’t need chatty Cathy air Hostie engaging with everyone like a long lost friend on meal service. Again no one asking for alcohol or being offered. “Hey Cath can I have a chat ? Where is the drink cart sweetheart ?” . She obliged

Then we landed maybe 20 mins late. Bag came out first , Air Train was waiting and at Eagle Junction about expected time before delay. Sweet. Speaking of, my Sweetpea drove us home and then we hit a snag around the Bribie Island turnoff where a large skip had caught fire . Added about 20 mins to trip home but made it. It had been that sort of day

Last full day in Sydney on what appears to be another rip snorter requires a cunning plan which shall be thus unless it changes.( Will update when complete for those with Mondays Bingo Card 🕺🏻)

Early morning (0530) coffee run if only to annoy hotel guests ✅

Early morning walk to Balangalangarangadoodoo , the final corner of puzzle ✅

Solid but not life altering breakfast ✅

Up to gym after Lycra brigade have left ✅

Chill ✅ Literally and then Figuratively

Off to Manly mid morning on fast ferry for a Froth and a Frolic ✅ ( Frothed and Frolicked 🕺🏻)

Early afternoon pack , shave , cut off nose to face my spite yada yada yada ✅

Last assault on a couple of bars kicking off at 4 pm.✅✅✅✅🙄

It’s a keeper if say so myself. Will miss the early mornings here because for me the best time in big cities is just before sunrise . Of interest here no real yahoos around either and while a few not many sleeping rough on streets in CBD at least . Am sure there are at different areas . Sydney CBD actually is one of the cleaner ones have seen almost, but never, Singapore level . Those bloody trains are following me

Now to head off down to water to Balangalangarangadoodoo. What a stunning area especially at 6:30 in morning. Just the Lycra brigade and dog walkers. Crown Hotel certainly dominates

Time then for a breakfast wrap and coffee. Campos, a solid performer , is popular here and in a big tick for Sydney Starbucks is rare. Up the top end of Clarence for a change for my daily elixir

Almost 8 am so gym should be safe and pool only chilling not bone chilling . Gym was perfect as expected after 8 am. The Holy Trifecta of Quiet

Now I live a clean life and wash every few days but not one to believe in divine intervention but as I stood looking out the church window after my swim a horde of 3 annoying kids descended and starting playing on the machines while Dad of the Year went in other direction and sat on verandah.🤦🏻‍♂️

Love it when a plan comes together . Now just have to work out when socially acceptable to descend on the Manly Elite. Ok, ya got me, when does the pub open 😏 Catching the Daly Cherry Evans Ferry so it will leave early of course ….. Looked up what to do to in Manly on a Monday and first up it said avoid Mad Monday. Every Year. Early September . Cruel but fair .

Yesterday had my doubts about tacking on extra two days but this morning put that to rest. After a great early morning the few hours spent on water and at Manly on a glorious day was simply magic . First up easy fast ferry to the wharf near one beach .

A stroll down the mall to the main beach – and a poor coffee – reminded me of Sandgate on a quiet day . They even plan Jazz Festivals on second weekend of NRL finals as know nothing else on of interest to residents.

Then by sheer luck Your Honour the brewery was open and it was named in honour of John Hopoate . So comfortable even ordered some lunch but only ate half. The top half .

And a hop step and jump across road was 4 Pines Brewery and as equal opportunity drinker only seemed fair. And guess what – there was a Mad Monday on 😏

Well that packing won’t do itself so time to head back home. Still have the Last Bar Assault @4pm afterall. May relax and rewatch a mini of yesterday game. Tribunal seems fair, Patty had to cop something

Surely he didn’t take any more harbour shots . Ooh, a plan update just faxed through. Whew .

Take Harbour shots leaving and returning ✅

Did chill for a couple then headed out at 4 pm as threatened. Plan was 2 bars, reality was 4. No mathematician but think in this case 2+2 was 4 and I blame the first two. First up then was Marble Bar at The Hilton on George. Certainly an impressive bar and could go off like a drunk frog in a large sock with music pumping but as a solo loser prefer more intimate bars where barman speak to you . In English.

Then it was time for a Stitch in Time . Very close by and were partaking in Negroni Month as indeed I am.

Should I head home now 🤔 Am real close……ah no. Let’s start a Farewell Tour of a couple of faves after all I am checked in and packed. Stop 1 was Papa Gedes and tried a rum variation on a Negroni which was good

Thought would finish with breakfast Negroni at PS40 but closed on a Monday 😰 Off to old fave Duke of Clarence then, an easy roll home to The Grace . Went with The Wimbledon and it was rather sweet

Well, I think that’s about it folks. Poor planning left a couple of good bars off the roster as closed on Mondays . You know what that means fans

I’M COMING BACK IN ‘26

As is the body. Have had some good drinking sessions but no hangovers or even a tad seedy. Very hard to get going in morning though. Takes about an hour before can actually stand up straight with back issues and knees are groaning from the walking. Going to take a wild guess and suggest I am getting older. Back issues from a very soft bed and disrupted sleep with noise and nose I am guessing. While 7 days may well have been enough will enjoy these extra two days but at a more relaxed, approaching comatose , state. Last wash ( clothes not body) is on so one less thing to stress about😏 Of course being Sunday Bloody Sunday no cafes are open early so will stick with my Babettes in QVB when opens at 7 am for coffee and toast . Once again a beautiful morning

Only real plan today is watch Broncos at 230 pm. Toyed with idea of sitting in pub to watch but yeah no. Easy to watch in comfort of room and still have Pringle Plan. Do have a couple of bars to check out still but of course closed on a Sunday 🤦🏻‍♂️ Quickly put two and three together and thought ya body feels crap and bars are closed – how about a massage🤔. Only 15 within one square mile and all with name Thai in it so chose closest one as it was Royal. Limped down at 930 am and went straight in and it was very good indeed. For same money as an hour at Maybe Sammy came out also feeling relaxed but could walk in a straight line. 😏 Didn’t get any bartender phone numbers though…..

One thing about big rain events is weather afterwards is usually great for a few days as it has been in Sydney. Will wander back out soon to grab some lunch but just a roll or similar methinks. I wish I had found this map at start of week 😏

Thought the Broncos was on at 230 pm but turns out it’s 4 pm 😏 Watched first 60 mins and thought Raiders on way to win . Headed to first pub The Burrow for another Negroni and it was quiet. The Taste of Pain was delicious and toasted The Broncos losing

Then it was time to head to Old Loves a Rum bar for a change . Good atmosphere so started with some Eldorado 12 yr old with cane juice. Checked score and it was 28:26 – the beauty of Foxtel GO on phone. Time then for a rum cocktail and settle in for the overtime.

Watched the Raiders score what assumed was winning try and settled up and walked home. Then saw result ! Wow. Think Walsh will be fine but Carrigan could be in trouble. Week off is a big blessing now .

So a quiet day ended very well . One to go

Weekends are a bit of pain for a few reasons but mostly many cafes are closed or open later. Still, found my usual one on George Street and then headed off towards Hyde Park on another glorious and quiet Saturday Morning.

Then I saw the hordes of Police . Was there a protest going on ? If it’s about the cafe situation on weekends I am marching ! Maybe they were there to protect the new statue of me they have erected in Hyde Park ?

Ah turns out it’s a protest against something something so will wait and see what occurs but seems may be even worse in Melbourne. As long as it’s over by 4 pm as have a date with Sammy again. Maybe . Now let’s start day with a sensible breakfast if can find a cafe open. Ok, I am starting my own protest movement . FFS make a standard quantity provided when you order Toast ! Either too much or too little. Could drive a man to drink. Or very least use a Light Rail. Ended up in QVB at Babettes.

A slightly different tack then today as had breakfast a bit earlier as no doubt crowded later on with the yuppie brigade. Back to room and up to gym and then a quick swim and almost feel normal and alive . Now what do I do for the next 7 hours apart from enthrall the fans 🤔 Watch my room get cleaned maybe…

Now just have to pull out the hospital corners and will be sweet. It has been good to avoid some world news for a week although the big ones do sneak through. Obviously any shooting is not acceptable but of course the difference in how Trump reacts to this one compared to Democrat lawmakers is pathetic. First up blaming the radical extremist left without knowing anything – his standard position of course. Then the truth comes out and all Buffoon Bob says is “ time to move on” . Imagine the usual nutbags when faced with actual facts suggested he was radicalised then at University. One semester . In fucking Utah! Give me a break 🤦🏻‍♂️

I see there is a drone show on tonight at 730 pm at Darling Harbour which could be cool to see depending on crowds. Assume wearing PJs would be ok that late at night 🤔 It is only a 10 min show of course. Will just need to keep the Cockle at Bay …..

https://whatson.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au/events/darling-harbour-drone-show

Eventually ventured out around 1 pm for some lunch as not a fan of crowds and weekends like this will be packed. As it was. Lovely out in the sun mind you and a leisurely stroll and with no great enthusiasm ended up at Helm. Solo dining is a problem especially on weekends and at restaurants where the best tables are booked for most numbers. Last time I booked a table was for a shoulder reconstruction and we all remember how that worked out. Oh you don’t ? And that’s the good one

In hindsight that would have given me a conversation starter with the rager party going on. Think they mistook a 7 for a 9. It was an Egyptian theme so maybe guest already mummified somewhere.

Just leaves a couple of hours to fill in before the fun starts. Do wish they opened earlier but appreciate they do stay up late . The street noise was certainly markedly up last night through to 130 am.

So headed off a little early to general area to try out Blu At 36 bar at Shangri La. Classic example of having a superb location is all you think you need. Reception hopeless, sitting in blinding sun and service woeful . Really amateur hour.

Luckily 2 min walk to Maybe Sammy even if have to wait 10 mins before opens. Quite crowded and as they say lightning don’t strike twice. Maybe the Saturday tourist crowd ( many Japanese) compared to Friday work crowd . It slowly picked up and staff were great but you need the crowd . Good value mind you as loaded up on $8 mini cocktails and $3 oysters

Luckily a better couple then moved in next door and the evening picked up. Tried a few adult size drinks and they were great but when started to see triple knew time to head home 😏

So, another great afternoon. Now , can he stay awake for the drone show 🤔 Will make the effort as close by but if crowded or difficult to see will be back toot sweet . Don’t go away …..

Braved the crowds and don’t want to drone on but you seen one light show you seen em all 🥸

That’s been a full week. Could be a couple of quieter days now .

Well what a difference a day makes. Still dark at 5 am of course but looking doodle for early morning on the water. Today intend to do more walking and wake up the Vitamin D after yesterday afternoon did go on a bit 😵‍💫

First up down to SoHo Express while it is nice and quiet.

Not even 6 am yet but let’s catch Light Rail to Circular Quay and catch a Ferry to Luna Park for a laugh. It was a bit breezy so bought a tourist inspired hair comb from a tacky Tourist place to keep the flowing locks in place. Worked a treat

Really is a stunning harbour especially early morning with sun coming up. Only a short trip first up. Or very short as it turns out. We almost got to the bridge and just turned around and went back to CQ with out a word. Now, there was only me , a deck hand and I assume a driver. Asked deck hand “ do I just stay on ?” “Yes” and then he got off and walked into a room. Finally got underway again after 10 mins and when got off at Luna Park new deck hand Sid “ sorry for delay, medical issue” Assume deck hand took sick suddenly.

Luna Park was of course closed but had a brief look before heading off on a very pleasant stroll around to Kirribilli for a cup of tea with Albo. Beautiful vista back across the harbour and some prime real estate to boot .

So, a perfect start to the day. Only problem is back in room by 730 am 😏 Some planning required now and also a light breakfast .

Had my go to toast breakfast at Bomonti. Then headed off for a walk towards Chinatown via Darling Harbour. Lovely hour out and about around Darling Harbour. Looked at markets but always the same

Still liking idea of Guinness Pie and Pint for lunch on site so back in room to chill a bit and plan afternoon. The public transport system is very good and easy to use so can travel distances easily. Pie and Guinness went down fine even though a chicken and leek pie 😰

Well a fairly casual plan turned into an amazing afternoon. Snuck up on it with an Aperol Spritzer at a rooftop bar on a booteeful day – Harper Rooftop

Zuckerberg informed me about a Sicilian bar named Apollonia after the character in The Godfather and it opened at 3 pm 👏🏻 Loved the menu and went with the Franco Nero as too early for a Michael Corleone .

Had my eye on the rooftop bar at State Library but as didn’t open until 4 pm spent some time in the actual library. Then at 4 pm duly went up in the lift to an amazing bar with great views. Actually had the local Negroni and one of the best have had. And I have had a few….

It was very comfortable here and could have stayed but had read good reviews on the Martini Flight at Maybe Sammy’s which was a 15 min walk . Best decision I have made since that second circumcision in ‘03. Started with the Martini Flight and the rest is pretty much a blur until stumbled out about 90 mins later. Gayest bar have been in but also the most fun period.

Then started on the mini menu – a Negroni and an Irish coffee before finishing with a La Paloma

The real fun though was when the bar staff suddenly broke into a song and dance . They were having fun so we were having fun.

Simply a fantastic day. Only problem now is how do I fill in tomorrow until 4:30 pm when Sammy’s open again – it is closed Sunday/Monday 😰

So Armageddon arrived, had a squiz and liked the look of the place so decided to hang around another day 😰 Thinking forecast of “1-5 ml” is a tad conservative. Not showing in a still image , the system is actually spinning up from south west and not moving off coast but rather up the coast

So, leaves another morning at least to fill in as hopefully clears by afternoon. Worst aspect of this is best days will be as weekend approaches and crowds increase. Should be glorious when fly out on Sunday 😏

Grabbed my couple tray brolly and headed out into the gloom. It was consistent rain certainly but only went 100 m up road to Grindhouse. In general coffee has been great in Sydney but fear this could have been an organic one. The fancy cup was a concern straight up

Now my batting average is poor in this caper but feel it may clear late morning. Really just want a good walk today. Do I go to the gym now and risk the exercise bike brigade or wait until after breakfast🤔. One thing I do know with large Asian population in CBD those little ladies are a danger to society with their bloody umbrellas open at the 5 foot level while on their fooken phone!

The gym won out one-nil and as expected the Lycra brigade had descended . Still a couple of machines left for real men. Did notice some bikes but they were not going anywhere as bolted to floor duh. You can’t fool me Pal. Again 😏 Pool still not heated and in added touch the door to the outside – where rain and wind event unfolding – was open just dropping temp a bit more. It was bracing but also woke one up and quite pleasant when you get out

This weather system really kicking in so best hope maybe clear by late morning but is heavy now. Looks like breakfast on site today.

Went with an egg and bacon roll onsite as options limited so may as well limit spend. Going to be a long few hours methinks before can venture out.

And a dangerous few hours. Boredom leads to thinking – and am now spending two extra nights in Sydney and flying home Tuesday instead 🕺🏻 Maybe it will stop raining by then

https://www.facebook.com/reel/1335431551345017?fs=e&s=TIeQ9V&fs=e&fs=e

And if you thought that was a lot of waterworks wait until I tell CLP not coming home Sunday 🥸 Realistically $300 pn for this room in Sydney CBD is great value .

So having settled on a clever plan to watch the Broncos live in a pub on Sydney time to venture out on a still gloomy day. To a rooftop bar of course. Sweet, The Sweeney opens at 11 am, quick detour through a dry QVB and arrive at 11:30. Ah, rooftop bar opens at midday, we have to remove the ducks that are swimming there at present. No sweat Sweetheart, one thing people always will tell you about me is how easy going I am. So had a beer downstairs and then caught a canoe to the roof. Look, it may go off like a frog in a sock on weekends but ambience levels were low for moi and I bring plenty ambience with me trust me 😏

As rain was now coming in sideways let’s go to another rooftop bar but enclosed. They must have sat around for ages to come up with the name – The Rooftop. It is noted that it is a taste of The Hamptons in Sydney. I will keep both eyes out yo yo ma

Certainly a very pleasant area for a drink and time for some lunch and some John Dory fit bill perfectly. One reason glad staying until Tuesday is didn’t really want to end on a weekend when everything is busy and crowded with the great unwashed.

And so a productive morning comes to an end as the clouds start to part at last. Having spent the rainy mornings on rooftops will now seek out some dark dingy bars for the finer weather later this afternoon😏

Well that was a long and enjoyable afternoon but not sure how many I can handle at my age . It’s all time focused so let’s begin with The Baxter Inn which opens at 3 pm. FMS why are these places almost impossible to find. It’s a great Prohibition themed bar and very heavily whiskey based . I had a whiskey based cocktail but would certainly recommend to whiskey lovers.

Then it was time to check out Herbs Tavern, basically a Negroni bar but not participating in Negroni month 🤔. As always friendly staff and would be easy to settle in for afternoon but I have a mission.

Must be another bar within 100 m surely . Ah, Since I Left You will fit the bill . Another laneway but easy to find

A sensible person would head home now but on every corner is a new bar. Ok some are down tricky laneways or up rickety stairs but you get my point. Herb recommended the Breakfast Negroni at PS40 and seemed a smart move to me. Basically on way home Your Honour. It was a great bar with friendly staff as usual . The breakfast Negroni is based on Banana Bread and the left over bread is converted to ice cream.

And then my new best mate Fred suggested the signature Africola and must say it was delicious

Time to head home then but overshot as can happen. 100 m from The Grace was a CW themed bar called Jolene’s which was also on the Negroni bandwagon. Well, cat hurt eh

Ok, think I can make it home from here. I did. Goodnight

Well the bed sheets were certainly a mess this morning. Must have been rehearsing the wash and spin cycle before the Big Event today. It’s dark at 4:30 am – Yay – so let’s flush the nose and then check out BOM. Armageddon approaching but I see a couple of gaps surely.

Time then to head down to laundry having already acquired the necessary coinage – what, is Clinton still President ? #Platonic. The soap dispenser was not easy – ok easy to take your money, hard to grab the box of detergent . Do like my washing machines like my coffee – Industrial Strength . Only 2 machines (research again) suggested a 530 am assault could be wise. Now for the coffee 100 m away in light drizzle. Nice enough Albanian serving me . “Do you serve Cortado “ What is that ? “Well it’s a Spanish coffee that is a bit like…..” . We are in Australia. WTF did you just say Agon ? I had the Campos Flat White and it was fine but I won’t be back Again Agon 😏

Today is going to take some planning and a sprinkle of luck. Plenty of Breakky options onsite and of course Irish Bar from midday also on site. Does leave a long morning though after I have folded my clothes and checked sock count. Do like some exercise to prime the machine for shenanigans that invariably ensue.

Washing completed so dropped by reception to get my medal. Spoke to my honeybuns – mostly about my washing success to be fair – and then headed out in light rain to Bomonti 100 m up the road with no umbrella or jacket ! Not my smartest move but in comparison seemed quite clever compared to decision to order two serves of toast after being informed they were small serves. 🤦🏻‍♂️ 4 slices of Yummo Turkish but only 2 butter and one jam. Smells like the old One Jam Shim Sham to me.

Weather starting to cool down at least which is something. Now that 3.5 hr wait until pub opens.

I watched one show but really don’t come to Sydney to watch TV. I go to Melboring for that 🥸 Decided to brave the rain but really was miserable out there. Here is one I prepared earlier . Look like Wednesday on a Wednesday if you Lurch to one side . Spooky

Well that didn’t work, wonder what gym set up like? Called ahead to clear place out and it was perfectly acceptable . Really piddling down now but can still see Paris. Sweet

The shower was a religious experience , the “unheated pool” more a hellish one. It may be a Lap pool but feels more like a Snap pool now if ya follow me 🧊🧊. Still certainly feel refreshed and two stone lighter .
Now next big decision is at Irish Bar do I go with my fave Guinness Pie or take up the Wednesday special of Porter and Pie for $28. Well, I am a pensioner. And I am no weather expert – who is 😏 – but looks to me like this weather system may be passing through quicker than forecast 🤔 Or at least south of CBD.

Certainly good value for $28. I seem to be following steak specials around . Does leave a bit of a long afternoon ahead as certainly full a la goog at present. I am, as always, prepared for lousy weather this arvo

Well Lordy Lordy the bureau was right. Shocked I tell ya. But kinda suspecting it. Plan Pringle activated

Only people more shocked today were the Trumpettes…… and it’s Goodnight from him

Waking up to rain was not on the agenda. If ya can’t trust the weather bureau who can you trust 😏. Not supposed to start today until a “ late shower “. Given it’s only 4:45 am let’s see if it clears by coffee time for at least a walk. Fair bit of building cover being a CBD of course so am sure a plan can form. Of course Armageddon still predicted for tomorrow.

Nose currently running (medical humour) at about a 2/10 so that is becoming a pain for sure . Been about 3 months now .

Weather cleared sufficiently to venture out for a stroll to Martin Place across the road from Lewis Lane. It certainly is a great space in the middle of a busy city. My go to coffee choice actually looked a bit dicey so just opted for Urban Barrel in case rain came back. It didn’t

Now for a breakfast plan. Would love a toaster in the room for a simple start to day . Probably just head out for another stroll and see what appears. Getting up at 5 am certainly leaves a lot of time before any shops/attractions open. Headed to QVB building looking for a simple breakfast and was suitably rewarded with toast and jam.

By now weather was a bit more promising so wandered around Town Hall area for a bit of quirk and then got hounded for autographs outside the State Theatre for some reason

Thought it might be worth checking out the Light Rail as station nearby and caught one down to Circular Quay as weather was holding. Lesson learnt – no opal machines on board , so must tap on on street. $3 saved. Walked out to Old Opera again as is an impressive building indeed. Did pose for the Triple Icon Collectable which will be available on NoWayUSA.com.au shortly. $29.99 ea or two for $80 (trying to discourage hoarding 😏)

It truly is a marvellous backdrop for photos and also a leisurely stroll on a relatively quiet morning. Almost went for a walk in the Gardens but common sense prevailed. Actually ankle giving me a bit of grief which is odd and assume with all the walking feet are swelling a bit making shoes tight. It’s a theory not involving 🦕 so treat accordingly.

Light rail back home then for a break as still only 9 am 🤦🏻‍♂️

Went back out around 10:30 with no great enthusiasm but picked up some lunch which could become dinner as well. The morning did drag a bit but just after 1 pm hit the streets again in search of Negroni Nirvana. Turns out there are some great bars within rolling distance . First up was Joji which turns out to be a rooftop bar which went through to keeper on first research. Tried the Tropical as Sun was out briefly and it was “interesting”.

Most of these bars partaking in Kneegroani month ( patent pending) have two options apart from classic so can see return visits as so close to home. Next up was Uncle Mings on York and think my eyes are bloodshot already 😏 So dark no chance of reading menu so asked One Hung Lo to surprise me. Well that went south quickly #Crying Game.

Back out into natural light and thought let’s go back to old fave The Duck of Death and hope I am unforgiven after yesterdays effort. The Gabriati has Pale Ale on top which was interesting to say the least

So it’s rolled around to 230 pm so time to head back home before the 4 pm assault when many new bars open. The beauty of Negroni month , apart from cost , is you don’t take on much liquid but plenty of alcohol. First time I have been to 3 bars and no toilets in a session trust me. 👨🏻‍🦳The Grace is truly proving to be a perfect base with so many great bars within easy walking distance. Had the onsite Irish Bar pencilled in for Armageddon tomorrow but realistically could easily return to any of these 3 establishments.

3 pm update : Armageddon still on track.

Planning is required as some bars open at 4 pm, some at 430 pm and others in a very unAustralian way – 5 pm 🙄Plan is beer, Negroni , Whiskey .

First up then is Old Mates rooftop bar. Bugger me some of these places are hard to find from the street

Then it was around the corner to the Carribean theme Papa Geddes bar. Again need to walk down odd laneways to find these places. Worth the effort.

As we approached 5 pm it was then time to head to Perfecture 48 , a subsidiary of my own brand Perfect 67. Zuckerberg told me about a pop up Suntory Whiskey bar for this month so why not eh. Had the Highball food combo but may still need dinner methinks . Not a big whiskey drinker but it was something different in great surroundings. Time then to waddle home

Another great day even with a dull period for a few hours in middle of day. Armageddon still on track so see what tomorrow brings. May struggle to sleep anyway with laundry day tomorrow. Excitement builds.

Not a great nights sleep – usual pillow scenario ( 17 but none suit) , soft bed, noisy AC and of course street noise although not sure it was construction. These things happen in a CBD hotel in a big city. The advantage – plenty of coffee places nearby. Mind you more coffee shops open by 6 am in Maryhole than here ! Weather seems changeable all week but plan still today is head down to Bondi Beach by 🚌

Hustled on George Street with the street sweepers. Perfect time of morning for this LBD

Walking the streets early always reveals some quirk. Dropped in at a special gym just to get my balls washed. You just have to know when to pull them out . You only make that mistake once 🥸

Debate then raged in Flashskull. Do we go to Bondi early for sunrise and breakky or wait for mid morning so can have a beer or three. Common sense prevailed – one sunrise on beach, heap plenty drinkeries with views. Glad I did as another glorious morning and bus not too crowded at. 630 am . Even decided to have a surf and Lordy Lordy by time I got out already a mural done!

For all the talk about Bondi in old days it is a beautiful beach and have to say the waves looked great too. Saved the Ice Cubes from the Ice Bergs but maybe another time

Time then for some breakfast and Surfish was jumping so hooked in. Great egg and bacon roll and passable coffee. Location Location Location.

Only issue I guess was only just after 8 am and already done so much today. Bus trip home a bit slower so now back for a little rest and research before getting my rocks off later this morning .

The Rocks was a rocking and a massive cruise ship loading. Apparently its home port is Sydney and mostly does two day trips. WTF. Who lines up for 3 hours for that. As always a stunning vista down at harbour and took requisite photos and then settled in for a coffee at Belgian cafe while waiting for The Glenmore to open at 11 am.

Research certainly pays off and The Glenmore has a great rooftop bar and opens at 11 am – rare. It was a nightmare to get to but worth the effort . Stunning views and it was Monday Steak special. Very tasty and only $19. After requisite beer also tried the 4 Pillars Spritzer special which was a perfect cleanser. As always feel full as a goog despite not eating all that much and a lot of walking . When Old Whiskers was giving out Good Looks, Collapsible Joints and Slow Metabolism I scored the bloody trifecta 😏

A normal person ( looking at you CLP 💋) would have a nice lie down after requisite cup of tea to refresh for arvo assault. Ah nah doesn’t work for moi. Will rest for a bit and really don’t want to waste this great weather as rain expected to come in tomorrow and be very heavy on Wednesday- or as we call it, Laundry Day. Maybe find a dark quiet pub to celebrate Negroni month. Too much sun aint good for you afterall…..

So headed off with general plan to check out some rooftop bars on a nice day. Jackson on George was first up and a sign of things to come. A rooftop bar by definition sure, but no great views . At least it was quiet

Then it was on to The Rook which was close to home. Again you went up 7 floors in a lift – Mama didn’t raise no fool – but it was an enclosed area really and some roses had had an orgasm recently. Just went with a white whine ….

Of course Zuckerberg knows I am now in Sydney so feed is populated with Sydney events. Not a bad thing really. It’s Negroni Month! Mostly supported by “ laneway” pubs and one 100 m from home is The Duke of Clarence. Well pickle my sausage this place is a keeper. An English theme and quite small but at 2:30 pm on a Monday it was quiet and very comfortable. Went for a non standard Negroni which was perfect as I settled in for the afternoon.

I could have stayed here for ages….so I did. A sign drew my attention and so naturally supported Aussie Gin growers and Abo cordial producers. Apparently.

By now Wobbly Boot firmly attached and could have kicked on but as only Monday plenty of days left to kill some more liver cells. I will definitely be back here , especially on a predicted rainy day. I do fear though that my dreams tonight may be haunted by the question – was I actually sitting across from the Duke of Clarence 😵‍💫

Hey look I have had a few sherberts but am starting to think I may prefer Sydney to Melbourne now. The Grace is a perfect location – great pub, Coles and Chemist within 100 m. The CBD is more lively than Melbourne. Not the great breakfast options of Langham but I ain’t starving. I could see another solo trip next winter – would like to be here when it is cold .

In for the night now. Wisely – Mama didn’t…ah ok – bought a salad yesterday for tonight’s dinner almost as if I knew somehow would be half cut by now🕺🏻 Tomorrow’s plans will be mostly weather based but hope morning is ok for some loitering with no intent .

Up your Date : Quick tally had us 2 Liver cells and 1 Brain cell left for today’s quota so Zuckerberg suggested Bar 83 at Sydney Tower and I don’t argue with Trillionaires (unless they are a Trump). Mama didn’t… ok fair call. What a great experience. $30 minimum spend and now being 3/4 cut missed the 5 pm cut off for Happy Hour so two cocktails cost $41 instead of $30. Then I tried to hook into bottomless lunch for $89 on Friday and was told minimum 2 people. When suggested I could drink enough for 2 just got the old “ you Aussies “. Not as if any wait staff are Australian 😏 . My case is pending with ACCC. Anyway what a day today has been. May suffer for it later but can live with that for the memories and experiences . Take a gander at this lot