Great vacation!

Well I am back in Doha wondering why? I have just returned from 2 weeks away visiting Australia and Japan.

Australia- I had the best time with the kids! Every time I see them (which isn’t often enough) I am amazed at the amount they grow, bloom and mature. Both of the kids are fantastic company and are turning into beautifully natured individuals.

Cairns was great. The weather was not that hot and humid (compared to Doha in the summer!) I caught up with friends and had a look around at Australian Airlines. They are based out of Cairns (for now) and may be getting A330 aircraft in the future. If they do it may be a chance for me to get a flying job back close to the kids. I did a drive up towards Port Douglas and stopped by Mossman Gorge. After 2 days in Cairns I headed off to Japan.

Japan was amazing! The people were so friendly and the sights were great. They are in to perfection and minute detail. The Gardens are beautiful and a matter af great pride. At the stores I saw the most perfect (and expensive) fruit and vegetables I have ever seen (for example a box of about 9 strawberries for about US$35!). Yet eating and living there is not nearly as expensive as I thought it would be. The food was easy to order - you just go to a restaurant that has plastic food in the window (many do) and point at what you want and I have fall in love with the sake (rice wine usually served hot). The transport system (trains and subways) were very clean and easy to use and most have signs that are in English. I stayed most of the time in Kyoto (http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2158.html).

Takao Yamazaki Ryokan-
I stayed one night in an old style Japanese inn called Takao Yamazaki Ryokan
(http://www.ryokan-yamazaki.co.jp/english_1.html). It is very traditional Japanese Inn and an absolute must if you are visiting Japan. The experience of their hospitality, service and food is unsurpassed. If you ever visit Japan I can highly recommend this place.