Down Under: The NewCastle introduction

15 Feb 2014

IST 845 Hrs:

Readying for departure to Sydney through Singapore Airlines. 

CST International Airport, Mumbai

The swanky new T2 International Airport terminal lives up to all the hype. The walk through the Security and Immigration is literally a walk without barely any halt. It makes traveling such a pleasure. 

IST 1145 Hrs:

In flight en route Singapore. An hour behind schedule due to some delay in Immigrations at the T2 terminal - teething problems, I guess.
The breakfast done. The brain and body now longing for some sleep, it's now time to switch off the media players and get some well deserved rest. 

Singapore 2000 Hrs:

Changi Airport, Singapore

A brief halt at the Changi Airport, lunch at Burger King, and it's back to the onwards journey Down Under. 

Aus 16 Feb 0645Hrs:

The very thought of being connected mid-air to my people back at home was enthralling enough to motivate me to purchase the Onair wifi service. After a little socializing on the net, fatigue finally took a toll, and it was time for a nap. 

A good breakfast on board lifts the spirits of a jaded mind. It's nearing touchdown very soon. 

I can feel the excitement vanquishing the jet lag. It's an entry to a different part of the world. 

The last few days of uncertainties as regards the visa had taken a toll on the psyche. The trip remained in limbo. But the perseverance had paid off and I was now ready to venture into kangaroo land. 

0945 Hrs:

It seemed that the aircraft had landed in the midst of the Pacific ocean. Clearing the customs, I proceeded to the airport train station that would take

Intercity train

me to Newcastle via Central where my dear friend would be waiting to take me home. 

2100 hrs: 

Met Dr Dakshesh Vakil, a Gastroenterologist and
Dr Rajeev Ahuja, GP. Discussed about Australian and Indian differences in the system of practice of medicine. 

Homes in the suburbs are nothing short of sprawling bungalows built on acres of land. Simply majestic. And would you believe it! Pricing much less than our Mumbai property. 

LIFE HO TO AISI.....