Sydney to Canberra

Outside my apartment building 

After checking out of my Airbnb, I walked a short distance to Pacific Highway to catch the bus to Chatswood station. I walked a big circle before ending up at the station entrance.

A kind random stranger provided help with carrying my coffee, ordered to fill in time at central station, and railway staff assisted with my bag on the train. The lovely staff member also moved me from the aisle seat assigned to one where I'd have noone next to me, a lovely concession to my shoulder.

 I bid farewell to Sydney as the rain started again

Through the raindrops on the window 

Corned beef with brussel sprouts and pumpkin had no appeal whatsoever. A picnic lunch of fruit and reasonable takeaway sushi was adequate.

Alternative lunch 

Expanses of railway tracks gave way to industrial areas and then outer suburbs before we moved into rural landscapes.

As we progressed, I could only reflect on the squeaky noise of the train and it's swaying, and comparing with last time I travelled distance on a train which was on one of the quiet, stable, fast trains in China.

The Sydney to Canberra train does not score highly on the seat comfort aspect but 10/10 for staff for customer service and proactive helpfulness and kindness.

First class - a little more leg room - maybe

I spent some time in the evening successfully figuring out how to use the Canberra public transport app without a physical card.

From near my apartment 

My accommodation for the next few nights requires swipes and codes in multiple places and forms, but I think I have it sorted. The location is brilliant but it is amazing what can be conveyed with wide angle photography. My room is ....compact 😐

I headed for Coles for a few groceries and diverted into Aldi instead. I'm not a convert.

I will need to go shopping first up tomorrow for a warm outer layer. At well below 10°, It's colder than I'm prepared for.

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