Through the ash cloud

We were up at 4 AM to fly out but at that time the connecting flight was still cancelled: what to do?

With no fixed abode we decided that we may as well be stranded in Hong Kong as Sydney so we jumped in the car (late) and headed to the aiport. Thanks to Pep for meeting us there and sorting out the bag and car headaches.

We arrived in Hong Kong still without an ongoing flight, but trusting in fate we enjoyed dinner in town. Unlike thousands of other travellers the gods smiled on us and despite having to lug the absurdly heavy "carry on" (read "drag on") bags through 4 airports we arrived in Zurich as per schedule: but then how else is one expected to carry 12 months worth of supplies and maintain the 22kg limit?:

Zurich is a beautiful, gracious, and well mannered city: a study in how a (partly) medieval town can appear historical, clean, minimal and efficient all at once. We have a hotel in the old part of town, the grey cobblestone streets weave through this area with many shops that are artisan focussed ranging from stationery, delicatessens with counters weighted down with dried fruits, chocolates, preserves, teas +coffees and specialty clothes stores, hole in the wall bars and restaurants. Coffee, chocolate (hot), and a new Omega watch for Steve all featured prominently.

The Churches are the revelation being minimum 500 years old and stunning. Who could imagine even Finbar quietening down long enough to be interested?