BigMal's World

#Avgeek Trip Report – Conclusion

April 12, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

What a trip. What can I say. It has been months since I have had time to get some solid spotting in, let alone travel so this trip just made it all worth while.

A few things I do want to close out with and will cover it bit by bit. Some impressions and stuff.

Spotting:

In Sydney there aren’t many guides on where to go etc with half decent maps So below I have put up a quick grab of the 2 areas I went to. If your wanting to get to Shep’s Mound without a car you can do this by using the long term parking shuttle and walking but a car gives you flexibility if the weather goes to crap. Spotting on the Observation Deck is at its best in the afternoon with arrivals into 16L & 16R. The mound is best for the same in the mornings and ok for 34L arrivals, you would only get taxi shots for 34R. Morning is best for the heavies and late afternoon with domestic at all times really.

Park Hyatt Melbourne:

Probably my new favourite hotel in Melbourne. But a little out of my usual price range unless good industry rates are on offer. Definitely not as central as some of the other hotels in the same category (Sofitel, Westin, Intercontinental, Crown) but definitely a great location. It feels quieter up where it is, set back away from the hustle yet close enough it doesn’t worry. 2 minutes walk and your at Parliament train station on Spring St. Fantastic facilities (love the gym) and a Lounge with staff who were fantastic (my friend thought I was a regular as they were greeting me like I was there all the time but they were just that friendly.

Rental Car/Car Service:

Although the rental service at Sydney was a tad unorganised and badly sign posted at both terminals, I can’t fault Avis for the fantastic car they gave me and the one day rental was a good price. The car service with Royale was good and worth the lack of hassle in Melbourne for the late arrivals. But wouldn’t use it for daytime flights as Skybus runs more frequently and I don’t mind the time it takes during the day.

Virgin Australia:

Well what can I say. Great flights and service this time around on the Business sections. They have improved so much that I can’t see why people keep complaining. The crew is still a big factor but now that I know more info about what to expect I am happy. Yes the site needs some work to cover this but that’s out of the day to day stuffs control. The hard product is great, and the soft product has definitely improved in the 2 months since my last runs.

I am now Gold till September 2013 so that will make my life in the US so much easier. Delta lounge access here I come.

It wasn’t a cheap 2 day trip that’s for sure, but do I regret it no way in hell! I loved every minute and I am glad I did it, leaving the Japan trip for next time.

#Avgeek Trip Report – Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane

April 12, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

After a good catch up with friends and visiting Australia’s largest Big W right next to a Costco (sadly closed), I was dropped back at the terminal to head through security and make my way to the lounge. As I was heading to the lounge I managed to walk past the entire New Zealand Warriors football team. What is it with football teams this weekend! With about half an hour to boarding I grabbed a little bit of a light snack/late lunch of some minestrone soup and some salad (in hindsight looking back I could of avoided this) in the lounge before settling in.

I liked the Canberra lounge, it was not overly big (but for the size of the airport it wasn’t to bad, and I loved the fact it had unparrelled views. When they refurb this into the new lounge look, Canberra would be my pick over Melbourne I think. But time will tell how this will change with the Terminal renovations, if the lounge will remain in the same place or not (will know in 12 months I guess).

I again chilled out for the little while, and once again when the plane landed I gathered my things and headed to the gate area. The gate area was a Tad over capacity as It seemed this night flight was going to be full. I had to wait about 5 or 6 minutes before boarding was eventually started (and seeing a total male crew come off the inbound flight, a very rare site these days).

Virgin Australia
DJ278
Canberra to Melbourne
1700-1810
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUM)
Business Class – Seat 1A

Boarding: 1640 (Gate 8)
Push Back: 1658
Take Off Roll: 1707 (Runway 35)
Top of Descent: 1735
Touch Down: 1758 (Runway 27)
Shut Down: 1807 (Gate 7)

Boarding was called and I wanted to be first out onto the ramp to grab a photo and ensure I could spend as much time in Business as I can to get my moneys worth. After not getting yelled at for the photo (but a dirty look from a Virgin staff member way out of voice distance) I walked up the steps into the Aircraft and was greeted by the gorgeous all female crew. Little did I know, this was about to begin one of my best ever flight experiences with Virgin.

I was pointed in the direction of my seat, got my stuff together and decided to settle in. The CSM Savannah greeted me and welcomed me onboard and let me know that she would be looking after me this evening and let me know that I was the only person in Business class today and that if I wanted to sit in another seat feel free to take whichever one I wanted and offered me a Pre Departure Beverage. I just asked for a water (as usual) and she tried to get me to take one of the signature mocktails but I declined and was happy with water which she suggested some sparkling water. This was a good sign. The water was promptly delivered with a beeming smile and some easter eggs as a little welcome onboard.

Savannah offered me a newspaper, anything really as she doted on me while the rest of the crew boarded and then she let it slip that she would be looking after me all the way to Brisbane, as my continuing flight was also on this same aircraft and with the same crew (first time that’s happened). This was a bit of a shock and then Savannah also let slip, I was the only person in Business again on the next sector as well. 3/3 flights in Virgin Domestic business with the whole J cabin to myself. O yes!

As we pushed back on time, I was offered another drink by Savannah as “theres plenty of time for another one” and as we slowly got ready to taxi and taxied out to the active, my glass was cleared mere moments before we started our take off roll. We were airborne and quickly getting set up for climb out as we had to make a big long loop to the East to head south back to Melbourne.

As the crew were free from their seats, Savannah was back to offer me the afternoon snack service which I had a feeling was going to be the “infamous” cheese plate. Which it was, but to be honest, I think is quite enough for a quick flight like this one of like 40 minutes air time. I wouldn’t want this served on a several hour flight but for this short hop with a few more glasses of sparkling water (although Savannah looked disappointed I declined any wine to go with my cheese) it was definitely more than enough. I slowly enjoyed my cheese plate and the lovely decadant brownie that came with it.

We came into Melbourne with the most magnificent sunset started to light up the area. Savannah and her crew were always around offering me anything, making sure I was ok and with some change in my pocket and a quick visit to the lounge planned to see my friend again before she went off shift, I hatched a plan.

When we docked in Melbourne I said a quick “see you in half an hour” to Savannah and the other ladies and made my way quickly up to the lounge. I tried to see my friend but she had gone off shift, I grabbed some nuts (o glorious nut mix I must find out where they get it from) and got my Seat allocation changed from 2F to 1F just so I didn’t feel bad about having 2F allocated since I had determined to try out that seat originally and feeling bad for leaving the seat unused on the manifest).

On the way back to the gate, I picked up some chocolates for Savannah as a little gift to say thank you for being so fantastic so far and I mean she was doing everything she could. As I made it back to the gate, a scrum from a Chinese Tour group was starting and they didn’t even have time to call boarding before they had started to push their way on, so I just jumped into the Priority Queue and was let onboard once they got through some of the pushy group.

Virgin Australia
DJ351
Melbourne to Brisbane
1900-2110
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUM)
Business Class – Seat 1F

Boarding: 1830 (Gate 7)
Push Back: 1855
Take Off Roll: 1905 (Runway 35)
Top of Descent: 2032
Touch Down: 2055 (Runway 01)
Shut Down: 2100 (Gate 48)

I stepped back onboard with a “Welcome back… again Mr Muir” and this time I hopped into my new seat to which Savannah told me I could sit wherever I wanted and she would be with me shortly (once she had done some paperwork it seemed). I was given a bit of pre flight entertainment as one of the guests from the group then realised they had lost a bag in the terminal and wanted to get off which they had already been scanned onto the flight obviously could not be deboarded so as one of the crew went up into the terminal to search for the bag, Savannah was desperately trying to help out greeting the other passengers, her paperwork, look after me and also calm down the guest with the missing bag who could not speak any English (and manage to do all this with a never ending smile).

Once it had calmed down a little bit I was offered another drink, suggested perhaps a soft drink this time and accepted a pepsi max and settled in with the ongoing enterainment of the bag drama. Once all was quiet I hopped up and presented Savannah with her gift and wished her a happy easter and this caused an even bigger smile as I had happened to get her favourite chocolate…. Score one for me! She was shocked and her service went into over drive and to be honest, I didn’t do it for this, I did it because of how great they were and it is easter after all, don’t we all deserve some chocolate?

We pushed back and then as we were heading out after the safety briefing, a digiplayer was dropped off at my seat (no galaxy tabs on this flight) and then Savannah rather than taking my dinner order, had an offer for me. “Are you hungry this evening?” Expecting bad news after this thinking to myself dear god no meals have been loaded. “They ended up fully catering us this evening so did you want to try all of the options? You don’t have to eat it all but you can sample them if you wish. We have a Chick Pea curry with Cous Cous and Shepheards pie” I thought to myself, what the hell, I am writing a trip report for this.. so why not!

As we taxied off I was blissfully enjoying myself, not really paying any attention at all. As we climbed out and the post take off speeches were made the usual thank you to all business class guests was given, to which I smirked and giggled at since it was only me and being in line of site of the crew, Savannah almost broke out laughing herself. We headed up to be released from Seat Belts, and the tray of glory was placed in front of me. So much food, thankfully a 2 hour flight to get it all done!

I got the digiplayer going, selected a movie and settled in to enjoy a movie, some dinner and the company of some lovely cabin crew as they did everything to make sure I was comfortable. How can you not love flights like this? Dinner went down a treat, the cous cous while a touch bland on its own went really well with the Chick Pea & Pumpkin Curry however the Shepheards Pie was a touch to salty for my liking. Salad was good and the bread roll, fluffy and warm.

I did enquire if there was any of the Ice Cream Sandwhiches onboard and disappointment again as they had been onboard the previous 2 nights, but nothing this evening. After a few pepsi maxes and more movie, relaxing fully reclined I was needing a pick me up and declining a refil of pepsi which magically appeared, I asked for a cup of coffee in a little while.

Just after that I was thinking to myself, I could go one of those lovely cookies from up the back. As my coffee was delivered I was going to ask for one. What I did not expect was Savannah already standing there with one when she delivered my coffee, and a block of Toblerone. It was as though she could read my mind. I accepted the cookie with glee and declined the chocolate to which I was told to take it anyway, you may want it later on tonight.

I settled in with my coffee and more of the movie as we cruised north towards home, enjoying the light show out the window as a storm was lighting up the sky orange off in the distance. We started descent into Brisbane and I was totally unaware of this and was shocked as I was having such a good time and enjoying what had been one of the best experiences I’ve had to virgin to date. The crew were amazing, the food good, the flight just flew by. I didn’t want to get off.

A farewell to the crew thanking them for making this the best flight I have had in the last 12 months with Virgin and an even bigger thank you for making one of my last domestic flights in a while so amazing I was off into the terminal, determined to send Virgin some feedback about the crew (I had gotten Savannah to write me down all their names earlier) and contemplating the quick journey home as the airport was deserted. My bag was making its 2nd lap around the carosel by the time I arrived and in true Brisbane fashion, it may have come out in the first group but it was upside down… as usual!

I was in my car less than 10 minutes after landing and home within half an hour. A fantastic weekend had come to an end!

#Avgeek Trip Report – Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra

April 12, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

After arriving at the Park Hyatt o so comfortably in the S class, I did not want to get out, but sadly, the driver was already at the boot getting out my bag and the Porters were already opening the door before I had even thought about moving.

I was greated and offered to take my bag, however as I did not want to let the camera bag out of my site, I let them just take the suitcase and I kept the camera bag with me (although it felt like it was going to break me in half by this stage). I was escorted through to the check in, where I was greeted and checked in. I was informed of the lovely Diamond amenities and told that I had used “points” to upgrade to a Park Suite and I had been upgraded further from this to a Terrace Suite. I was asked if i had stayed at the hotel previously (I had not) and was then explained the facilities, services of the hotel etc, before being pointed in the direction of the Cathedral wing.

I made my way up to the room and damn… colour me impressed! I will let the pictures do the talking but for what little time I was spending in Melbourne, It was just not fair!! I mean seriously this room was awesome! Even a nespresso Machine, I was in heaven. I had a quick explore before hitting the sack.

Sunday 08th April 2012

Woke up a bit earlier than I thought I would as my body just did not want to let me rest, and I headed down to the Park Health Club & Spa (their Gym area) for a morning work out. The gym was modern and pretty damn good actually. Heaps of cardio and free weights, all modern machines with full cable tv set up in most of the cardio machines (albeit with crap reception on the treadmills). A Decent looking pool (although closed at that hour of the day). Couldn’t ask for more.

After the work out and a few coffees fresh from the machine, I met up with a friend next door at St Patricks Cathedral for morning mass before we returned to the hotel to indulge in the breakfast in the Park Club (lounge) up on the 19th floor. There was 3 of us and fully expecting to have to pay for the 3rd person, they mustn’t of worried as when we arrived the lounge was pretty empty (but almost full by the time we left). Although breakfast was continental in the lounge, they do offer A La Carte options at additional expense but the range on offer was by far exceeding my expectations and the fruit was just divine (best strawberries i’ve had in a while). All that was lacking was some chocolate options and being easter.. a tiny bit flawed imo.

After a good healthy breakfast, a number of coffees and some good conversation. It was time to venture out of the hotel. I checked out and bid farewell to my friends, declined the offer of Transport to the airport and decided to walk to Bourke Street to get a tram. After a 5 minute stroll through the Paris end of town, past lots of tourists and families out on this Easter Sunday. Soon enough I was onboard a tram and making my way to Southern Cross station where luckily a Skybus was about to pull out of the station to the airport within a few moments and i made it onboard just in time without a seat though =(.

At the airport effortlessly I was checked in within moments and relaxing in the lounge within 5 minutes of the bus pulling in. That is the one thing I do love about the lounge in Melbourne, there is no need to go through security prior to getting to the lounge so you don’t need to worry. Unfortunately my friend was not yet working today (she would start later on) so I headed up to my favourite area of the Melbourne lounge and one of the super comfy red seats was free. I settled in, camera in hand with a view of the active runway, drink and book out, chilling and relaxing. Is there a better way to spend a sunday?

After a catch up in the lounge with my friend, some more spotting, the inbound aircraft landed and pulled up to the gate so figured it was time to head towards the outer pier and through security. On the way stopping to get a couple of photos of XFB and other aircraft sitting around. Expecting a bit of a queue at security, there wasnt one so I was through within moments and sat down at the gate, just relaxing and waiting for the flight to be called. I was excited to be flying an Embraer with Virgin for the first time.

Virgin Australia
DJ271
Melbourne to Canberra
1330-1435
Embraer E190 (VH-ZPL)
Economy Class – Seat 3A

Boarding: 1310 (Gate 13)
Push Back: 1329
Take Off Roll: 1336 (Runway 34)
Top of Descent: 1400
Touch Down: 1421 (Runway 35)
Shut Down: 1425 (Gate 5)

Boarding was called and I was first through the doors and headed for the aircraft. Although my usual seat was awaiting me (3A) since the Embraers are not yet refurbished I wasn’t sure what to expect. A Few observations onboard these Embraers though. The legroom is ample, windows are nice and high (pretty much what everyone will already know) but what got me was the windows are offset so you kind of have a bit of a wall where there should be a window right next to you. This was not preffered and in the end distracted me more than anything.

We pushed back early after a quick load and I did have a seat mate on this fairly full flight up to Canberra, we were told it would be a quick trip but would be a long taxi as we had to taxi out to the end of the active which wasnt exactly right next to our gates. O well you win some you lose some. We lept into the air in the style that Embraers have and shortly the seat belt sign was off and the service commenced. What I didn’t realise was that Melbourne to Canberra is also Captial Connect service, designed to compete with Qantas and they offer the free snack like they do out of Sydney. Not all that hungry after breakfast and expecting some food on the next few flights (and some snacking in the lounge of course) I declined the food but accepted my usual coffee and water as I started into a new book.

The flight was great, no hassles and as they started to collect the trash up, we started our descent into Canberra, down through the cloud layer as we came into the surrounding farm lands of Canberra we had a straight in approach from the South and came in with a very distant view of Civic and Black Mountain Tower way off into the distance. We landed with one of the most impressive touch downs I have had with Virgin (it was as though he barely touched at all) and we taxied back to the terminal. Pulled into an Airbridge (which is always a good thing at Canberra with so much renovations underway) and was off into the Terminal to collect my bag and catch up with my friends (after first checking back for my next two flights).

#Avgeek Trip Report – Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne

April 12, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

Saturday 07th April 2012

O dark 30… the time that I hate so much, but today since I was on an extremely early flight, no work out no nothing, Just up, shower and out the door (not even a coffee!). Made it out of the house and to the airport easily, very little traffic and within 15 minutes of leaving, the car was parked in the Parklong (seriously dumb name) facility at the airport thanks to their offer of a $40 full weekend and then it was time to wander my way through the car park and to the terminal.

Check in was a breeze and literally 20 minutes after leaving home, I was through security (dodged explosives, o yeah!) and up to the lounge where breakfast and coffee awaited me. I was expecting no barista at 5am in the morning, I was wrong! The barista was on staff so it was a quick breakfast of cereal, fruit and coffee and getting all my stuff together for the flight. The lounge was quiet but since I didn’t have all that much time, I wasn’t planning on getting to relaxed. About 5 minutes before the flight was due to board, I strolled my way down to the gate.

Virgin Australia
DJ908
Brisbane to Sydney
0600-0735
Boeing 737-800 (VH-VUZ)
Economy Class – Seat 3A

Boarding: 0545 (Gate 39)
Push Back: 0600
Take Off Roll: 0607 (Runway 19)
Top of Descent: 0646
Touch Down: 0727 (Runway 34L)
Shut Down: 0731 (Gate 31)

Boarding was promptly called and there was a number of small children pre boarded. But thankfully they all headed way down the back of the plane. I settled into my usual seat and got myself nicely relaxed and just tuned out really. It was way to early to be doing to much, I just wanted to sleep really but I knew that once I got to Sydney, it wasn’t going to happen. By the time the doors closed we pushed back dead on time, I looked around and had the entire row to myself. Not only did I have the “Gold Shadow” (blocked next seat) but also had the whole row, both sides of the Aisle! w00t!

We taxiied quickly to Runway 19 and took off with the rising sun shining in my window. I got stuck into my book as once we climbed above the solid cloud deck further south, there was nothing to see out the window. Service was the usual (especially for me) coffee & water and with more pages of the book smashed through as we cruised south. These are the flights I like, effortless and quiet. Flying over easter looked to be a smart decision.

As we started descent we were warned that it could be a while in descent as Sydney was playing silly buggers with ATC diversions. It was true, we took our time doing our descent very very slowly. We came in very high over the harbour so I knew something was up as we popped out of the cloud deck pretty much already over the city but way to high for a normal descent into 16, and we weren’t heading out into the ocean over the Eastern Suburbs for a 34R. Very confusing! Turns out we had been diverted way way way south (after overflying the airport) and were heading for 34L.

As we came into finals for 34L I was checking what was on the ground and saw a number of good sites. United in Star Alliance Livery, JAL in Oneworld Livery lots of other goodies just waiting to be photographed. I knew I had to be quick, because JAL was due to depart about 8am so wouldn’t have much time to get the car and get moving. As we deplaned I headed straight to baggage and my bag was 3rd out and then it was off to get my car. I had booked a car with Avis through work and had hoped I would get something nice and pretty for the day but to be honest, I didn’t care.

There was a line at the Avis counter unfortunately and it seems they didn’t even have a car ready for me 🙁 When I was offered a Minivan (eww no to big) I declined, was then offered a full on Pajero and not wanting to drive that either I declined. He told me would be 3 or 4 minutes till they could get me a car. I was ok with that. 10 minutes later, still no car, the guy gave up and just gave me someone elses car. Why he didn’t do this in the first place I don’t know.

Threw all my stuff into the car and headed off over to Sheps Mound for my morning of plane spotting. I did manage to get the JAL Oneworld along with so much other stuff. The day just flew by, so rather than describe what will be boring to some, I will just show you a selection of photos 😀 (the full album can be found here )

Virgin Australia 737-800 & Qantaslink Breast Cancer Livery Dash 8 Q400

United Star Alliance 747-400

United Airlines 747-400

JAL Oneworld 777-200ER

After spending most of the day taking photos in various locations and catching up with an old friend for lunch. I headed back over to the Domestic Terminal and checked in. Light was dropping quickly so I just found a nice quiet spot in the lounge to check my emails, charge my phone and tune out really. After my phone was charged (bout 30 minutes or so) I headed out of my hiding corner and saw that the Gold Coast Suns were in the lounge. Crazy! Then after they left, the Brisbane Lions rolled in (pretty sure it was the young lions) and then after they left, In came the Freemantle Dockers!

Seriously how many football teams are flying through Sydney tonight! I tried to stay out of their way and just get myself some dinner (after a few bowls of the awesome nut mix Virgin uses). I was happy and relaxed, a tad sunburnt and tired all at the same time. I headed out of the lounge a little early to stroll around and wake myself up a little before trekking all the way out to the very end of the Virgin pier to where my next flight awaited. What I noticed as I had timed the walk pretty well for boarding to have started around about the time I got there. It hadn’t. Great a delay! The crew were just boarding as I got there. I looked out the window and tonights flight was operated by none other than XF “Broken.” No wonder there was a delay! I contemplated heading back to the lounge but could not be bothered really so found an empty seat and just kept reading till boarding was called.

Virgin Australia
DJ888
Sydney to Melbourne
2000-2130
Airbus A330-200 (VH-XFB)
Economy Class – Seat 7K

Boarding: 1950 (Gate 40)
Push Back: 2015
Take Off Roll: 2025 (Runway 16R)
Top of Descent: 2105
Touch Down: 2136 (Runway 16)
Shut Down: 2140 (Gate 12)

Boarding was only called a little bit late, and I was in the first group onboard which was great, so I could get plenty of photos. Unfortunately what I didn’t realise was the seats onboard the Ex Emirates A330’s had not really been refurbished. These seats were horrible. Sure they looked pretty but god damn they felt totally crap. Worse than hell! But I sucked it up. As everyone slowly boarded and the crew were doing their checks the gentlemen in the row behind me was asked to move his carry on up into the overhead locker but then he was told that soon he would have a lot more space as they were going to upgrade him. Damn I was hoping for a Battlefield upgrade today, no luck!

A quick taxi to 16R and we were airborne heading for Melbourne. I tuned out really quickly on this flight, a coffee to keep me awake enough till I get to the hotel and the book to distract me enough. I was out of it really. Not much more to say other than up, down and a short cruise in between. I can see why people hate flying this route over and over again each week. I would be so bored some days! We descended into Melbourne and touched down with not to big of a bump and as we taxiied towards the terminal, I was looking forward to some sleep. But the ground staff had other ideas. We sat, and sat, for a long time (probably 10-15 minutes) waiting for the air bridge to attach. What I didn’t realise was that it must of been broken or it doesn’t work for this aircraft as when we finally deplaned. It was down stairs. No photos due to the night, but soon enough I was in the terminal, quite chilled as the temperature had dropped.

The terminal was buzzing yet still quiet in comarison and the bags were slow to arrive. I had booked a car through work as I never trust late night flights into Melbourne and the Skybus and I always hate taxi queues. The driver was waiting for me and after my bag came out, I grabbed out my jacket (shorts and tshirt in 15 degree weather is not a good idea) and he lead me towards the car. What awaited me was a glorious looking Mercedes S Class and a VERY comfortable interior for the next 25 minutes to the hotel.

Book Review: Helmet for my Pillow

April 9, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

As I resume reading my history books I finish off the last of some books given to me for Christmas 2010 (well war books anayway).

This book is Helmet for my Pillow by Robert Leckie. This book is one of the ones that is part of a group of books that is what the book and tv shows The Pacific were based on.

The books like the others is based on the experiences of a Marine Cop soldier during WW2 in the pacific Islands campaign. Where this one differs to the others is that Leckie (also known as lucky) started off from the very outset of the Island campaign fighting on Guadalcanal.

Unlike most others Lucky was a bit of a miscreant or as he described himself a brig rat. It follows his experiences during the island campaigns on Guadalcanal, New Brittain and the opening days of Pelielu.

However this book isn’t all guts and glory. Leckie is truly a writer and was a journalist before and after the war and it feels more like poetry at times as the book is just so well written.

His descriptions of events border on poetry as be describes events, feelings or the sights around him and some times wonder if it is even real.

This is one of the best books I have read about this part of the war and thoroughly recommend it to everyone interested.

#Avgeek Trip Report – Introduction

April 6, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Introduction
Brisbane to Sydney to Melbourne
Park Hyatt Melbourne & Melbourne to Canberra
Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane
Conclusion

I am going to do this trip report a little bit differently, I am going to try and post it in stages so It doesn’t eat up so much of my time, along with also making it easier to read.

This upcoming trip had a bit of a wierd starting. After finding out in Early March that I could possibly have the Easter Period off, well I thought back to last Easter where I had a great time flying some flights, purely cause I can (Trip Report here) and thought back, well why don’t I do it again. I had two options in my mind.

1. A local bit of #avgeek times doing some spotting in Sydney and perhaps adding some more Virgin Australia status credits to my requalification before heading overseas.
2. A long weekend journey to the Northern Hemisphere, to Japan for some 787 flights with ANA.

After researching the costs vs time away and looking into it, Japan was scrapped. Not purely cause I couldn’t afford it, but the outlay for time spent in Japan just was not worth it. I begrudingly put the Japan plans out of my mind and set about planning a quick 2 day jaunt to the Southern states. After a bit of playing with online schedules I came up with the following which would give me a full day of Spotting fun in Sydney on the Saturday and then some Status running on the Sunday.

07th April 2012 – DJ908 – Brisbane to Sydney – 0600/0735 – Boeing 737-800 – Economy
07th April 2012 – DJ888 – Sydney to Melbourne – 2000/2135 – Airbus A330-200 – Economy
08th April 2012 – DJ271 – Melbourne to Canberra – 1330/1435 – Embraer E190 – Economy
08th April 2012 – DJ278 – Canberra to Melbourne – 1700/1810 – Boeing 737-800 – Business
08th April 2012 – DJ351 – Melbourne to Brisbane – 1900/2110 – Boeing 737-800 – Business

It will look something like this:

So why to Canberra you may be asking? Well the Business fares from Canberra to Brisbane were quite cheap and could give me a good status point bonus, but the funniest thing is, it was CHEAPER to fly in Business from Canberra to Melbourne to Brisbane than it was to fly Melbourne to Brisbane… so why the hell not. In using these flights, I would get almost the entire Virgin Australia fleet on my list of flown Aircraft (Just the 332 and E90 to go).

So the flights were set, but where do I spend Saturday night, I looked around, I thought about things, I looked at offers and agent rates, then I saw a link to a Hyatt Diamond Challenge, you could status match to Diamond status with Hyatt Gold Passport from my Hilton Gold for 2 months and even get the Suite Upgrade Benefits. Now I have always wanted to stay at a Park Hyatt and although I definately can not afford the Park Hyatt Sydney so Melbourne would have to do and the rates were good to use the Suite Upgrade and with free breakfast and other benefits, It would be a good nights stay and since the flight did not go till Mid Arvo I could get a good morning with friends in Melbourne for one final time!

The trip was booked and set, but then something even better happened. Virgin Australia announced a Double Status credit special, but it was only valid on bookings made AFTER 27th March. So although some of my fares I couldn’t do much with (as they would cause fees that would eat up the majority of the fare I paid as there was some good bargains in those fares) the Business Class fare could be cancelled without fees and the prices were still the same as I paid. So dodgily cancel and rebook I did! That will take my Business flights from 40 status credits to 80, giving me well more than enough to requalify now.

The camera lens will get packed, the point and shoot will be primed and ready to go (after a recent warranty return). I can’t wait!!! Lots of photos to be taken!

Day 5/6

April 3, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

The one thought going through my head right now is why the hell am I doing this to myself. After the last few days I am totally on struggle street. The weekend was totally cruise, no hassles at all (other than the usual). I road along the area where I came off my bike last time and managed not to injure myself (always a good thing) but for some reason skipped my treat for the week (brain elsewhere) so ended up being down 2kg from last week putting me 4kg under where I should be, not happy!

Back to the regular work week yesterday and like today the mornings are nice and relaxed in the office. Calls aren’t rushed or anything but by the time lunch rolls around the shite has hit the fan and all he’ll breaks lose. But Meh what can you do!

Totally run down and Out of it right now, the only thing getting me through is telling myself I am doing this for a good reason. Right now it’s time to read some more of my latest book to tune my worldly problems out and then pass out when I get home.

1 more day, that’s all it will take, I can do it, it will be easy!

Book Review: Sherlock Holmes

April 2, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Ok it has been a while since my last review, but then this “Book” has taken a while, almost 1700 pages of book (2nd largest book ive ever read):

The Book (well books really) is The Complete Novels & Stories of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. It is the timeless classic of the Detective Sherlock Holmes! The version I have is actually all of the novels & short stories combined into two Volumes (1000 pages & 738 pages) and is made up of “The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes”, “The Case Book of Sherlock Holmes” & “The Hound of the Baskervilles.”

Pretty much this book has kept me going for quite some time. Reading about all the adventures based in the Victorian era of London, making me wish I was back there in that time with Holmes & Watson solving the mysteries (not always a crime). The stories are just so well written and done so well as to keep you enthralled and make you totally succumb to the pleasure of the story.

After watching the movies with Robert Downey Jr this is a great portrayal imo of the original Victorian Era holmes while the new BBC TV show is a very in depth modern interpretation of the stories. The stories are not at all what you think and they do lead a bit to be desired at times of wanting to follow exactly the train of thought of Holmes as he solves these mysteries but you do not get that at times. The books are written from Dr Watson’s perspective and it is through his “eyes” that you get to see how Holme’s brain works.

All in all I can now tick these off my Classic Books list and start back onto knocking back all of the books on my shelf (this may take a while). If you have watched the movie and the tv shows, you have to read the books, it is just blasphemy if you haven’t!

Day 2 of 6

March 31, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Yep I am doing it to myself again. 6 days straight, but again I have some crazy reason behind this. Last time it was to secure extra days off. This time similar reasons. I’ll still be getting the same amount of days off just all consecutively. Managed to score Easter off as a whole (will talk about my Easter plans shortly) but I will now have 5 days off straight. From Thursday all the way through to return to work Tuesday. Score!

So yesterday was a pretty good day, found out when I should be heading overseas (again stay tuned would rather wait till I have a confirmed date) and had the annual Avis launch party at work. Although I bailed a little early (later than planned though due to making the finals in barefoot bowls) it was a good night and apparently the team won Best dressed team prize (but I didn’t put much effort in or stick around till then so in my opinion I don’t deserve a share in the prize) and but for when I was there it was a good night and it was better than expected.

This morning though a bit annoyed at my bike as the chain came off half way up a hill just as I was getting a good groove on this morning so that just did not help. Back on the bike tomorrow and see how things pan out.

Here is to an uneventful day at work (I hope)

Mega Stress…

March 23, 2012 by Mal·Comments Off

Well the Visa Interview has come and gone. The Stress was just way to much to handle and I think I did some stupid things on Wednesday that I should not have done. Nothing overly stupid like forgetting things, just not using my brain properly when I should of.

But the trip was worth it. I flew down on Tuesday afternoon, after getting moved to an earlier flight, then that flight gets delayed by an hour so I dont end up getting down to Sydney any earlier. After a $30 cab ride from my hotel to the Sofitel and back again to pick up all the official paperwork. It was a long long day being up at 430am and not having dinner till about 1030 at night (although I will say the Ox Tongue bento box I came across was DELICIOUS!!!!).

Wednesday morning was spent after a work out, relaxing my nerves by walking from my hotel near Central Station all the way to the US Consulate (bad move #1). This calmed me down and after a coffee and some interview prep I was ready to go. After heading up to the Security area of the Consulate and being told I was to early and to come back. I did some more waiting and after a while went back to check in. Security was a bit more strict (as expected) and after being chastised for my paperwork and being told that going with an attorney is always a waste of paperwork (whatever lady!) I was into the Consulate properly.

The interview went well and it kind felt like a non event. It was over so quick I wasn’t sure what was going on. But I was over the moon. First thing now. Get some food into me! After heading off and having some amazingly good Sourdough Toast I packed up all my stuff at the hotel, checked out and headed off to have my lunch with my sister and my first nephew Braedon.

All in all, so worth all the stress to have that Visa Approved. Now a little bit more waiting while the powers that be organise my departure date etc. So at the moment I wait a little bit for a date to go, but till then, the big stress is over!