Well, we're back!

We spent our final day in Australia doing a movie marathon and experiencing the "climb of our life" on the Sydney Harbor Bridge. Due to the flight adjustments made by Gulf Air we had an extra night and most of a day to spend in Sydney. We had saved "Spiderman 3" for the IMAX in Sydney with hopes of being able to see it on that last day but the timing didn't work out. Instead, we saw it along with "Shrek 3" at a regular theater. I thought both movies were well worth seeing! We actually saw quite a few movies during our time in Australia...so many so, that by time we left, we couldn't go to the theater and see a movie we hadn't already seen. :) (Had to make up for lost time!)

The Sydney Bridge Climb came highly recommended by several people so we decided to check it out despite the high costs and long duration. We both really enjoyed it although both walked away feeling like we'd spent far more than it was worth. The entire tour was 3 1/2 hrs long and included clothes for the tour, prep, practice, and a walk up the bridge (and back down obviously). I thought the organization and tour was well done, the guide had a great personality, and the view was breathtaking..but the time spent at the top was a little long considering you couldn't bring a camera with you (understandable). They did however take your picture and make those available for additional money. Cost of being temporarily clothed and led up and back down stairs on a bridge? $189 Australian Dollars/person.

The trip back went rather smoothly. It came as a surprise considering the trouble we had coming in. (of course it would go well going BACK to Baghdad!). I guess the only disappointment in our travels was the Singapore gift shop was closed when we went through. There were several items I wanted to pick up on our way back. Guess that's what I get for waiting!

Our first day back has gone as expected. Much of the day is spent catching up with people and email and detailing our vacation. It sounds like kickboxing has been killer lately (something to look forward to) and there have been a lot of organization changes with the transition. Since I've left we've acquired over 50 new faces!