Sydney is AMAZING!

Melissa finally convinced me to travel with her to Sydney to check out the only 'real' Australian city. I'd been reluctant for visit the other 'capital' city because of the unwritten rule: Melbourne doesn't like Sydney and Sydney doesn't like Melbourne. The nations capital was settled in Canberra - halfway between Melbourne and Sydney. Although Sydney was settled first, Melbourne's early population grew faster and the city developed parallel to other pacific rim cities like San Francisco. Sydney grew in popularity and is now larger and arguably more popular than Melbourne. The cities' two soccer teams are even bitter rivals with visiting fans always calling for increased security at away games. To make the brainwashing worse, my manager is originally from Sydney and never hesitates to educate me on all the great things Sydney has to offer.

This trip had another purpose as I finally got to meet the other CEB leaders who are helping to start the Asia-Pacific office. Both are living in Sydney - one downtown and the other at Manly beach. When first arriving at Manly, its clear that this beach is one of the most beautiful in Australia. After staying for the weekend, it may be one the most beautiful in the world.

To round out the weekend, we saw the passing of the Queen Elizabeth II and the Queen Victoria. Apparently, these massive cruiseliners rarely meet at the same port and this meeting was even more special as its the QV's maiden voyage and the QE2's retirement voyage. [Not sure I would purchase a ticket for either!] The video clip is meant to share with you the horns as they both sounded as they passed in Sydney Harbor. Its not great, but you get the drift.