Australia > Arrival in Sydney

In Singapore, it is seven hours later than in the Netherlands. Around three o’clock, the cabin lights come back on and breakfast is served. After that, the descent to Singapore begins. On the screen, it shows that we will arrive just before six o’clock at gate B10. About an hour later, the flight to Sydney also departs from gate B10. It seems that the same plane continues on. That reduces the risk that my luggage won’t make the connection. Everyone has to get off the plane. After a quick restroom break, I join the line for the carry-on baggage check. Three quarters of an hour later, I board again. It turns out to be a different plane. Two planes are parked at the same gate. However, it is the same type of aircraft. I am seated four rows further forward. It’s funny to see that the entire travel group is seated the same way, just four rows ahead.

Australia - The landing in Sydney

I estimate that this seating arrangement will apply on the return flight as well. Hopefully, we will have such an easy connection in four weeks, because then the layover time will only be fifty minutes. Whether the luggage will arrive with us then, I will find out in four weeks. A snack is served onboard for lunch. Then I close my eyes. I don’t really fall asleep anymore, which makes this flight feel longer than the previous one. I’m surprised when another lunch is served before landing. I thought I’d have to make do with the snack. I notice I’m not very hungry anymore. I eat a few things I like and leave it at that. The plane lands on schedule at Sydney Airport. As I walk towards the arrivals hall, I am asked several times if I am carrying any food. Australia strictly controls the import of edible products to prevent exotic diseases. After passing customs, I arrive at the baggage carousel. My travel bag made the short connection time. Outside the airport, I meet Derk, the tour leader of my trip. I also meet the other travel companions. One travel companion arrived in Sydney earlier, coming from another destination. At first glance, it seems like a nice group. By bus, we drive to the center of Sydney. I see the skyscrapers of the Sydney Central Business District. The hotel is located on the border of Chinatown and Ultimo, a lively area. The harbor and the Opera House are about three kilometers away. I won’t be going there this evening. At a nearby café, we have a drink. I order a James Squire 150 Lashes beer—the first toast of our trip. Together with my roommate Jan, I return to the hotel. I take a shower and dive into bed. I notice that I am tired from the journey.

Australia - Having a beer in a restaurant in Chinatown