January 4

Booked Victoria Hotel on internet for €80. Central location. Skybus to Whitecross train station and then minibus transfer to hotel. Quaint and small room. Interesting to read on a book outlining the history of the hotel that in 1934 exchange teachers from England stayed there. Must mention that to the International Teacher Fellowship (ITF) which only dates back to 1971. This is the group whaich has facilitated my exchange, along with the International Section of DES.
€10 call card for 2,000 mins to Ireland. Slept until 10.30. Booked out. Had breakfast in Tropicana Juice Food Bar on Elizabeth Street, where Gerry and I had eaten manys a breakfast in March ’07. Still the best breakfast in Melbourne! The Asians are taking over Melbourne! Went to train station to book ticket for Warnambool at 18.36. All day tram ticket for €6.50. St Kilda, took the tram in the wrong direction. It stopped and the driver went to the other side of the tram. I asked “Does this tram go to St. Kilda: It does now!" Excellent system of trams around Melbourne. No flags or life guards apparent at beach. On train to Warnambool, you have to book in heavy luggage and collect from back of the train. Ticket €26, First Claaa €32. Laura at station. Tour of Warrnambool and also house. Arranged to meet at 4.30 next day for further tour.