This trip was almost on a whim. Only decided on the destination the night before, and because it was a sunday, the newsagent won’t open until 9.30 am. I had initially planned to board the bus at 9, but that won’t happen for at least another 30 minutes. I needed to visit the newsagent as I decided to get the day tripper pass. I’ll need to take at least 2 modes of transport, and using the day tripper ticket, it’ll probably be a dollar or two cheaper.
I took the usual bus to The Rocks where I switched to the ferry service to Manly Beach. I was initially considering a switch of buses one way, and the bus and ferry combination for the return trip. At least this way, I’ll get a mix of scenery. However, the lure of photo opportunity made me follow the same route.
Arriving at Manly, I walked around for a bit before having lunch of Fish and Chips on a park bench by the beach. It’s cheap, but you cannot beat the superb views and relaxing atmosphere. Why eat indoors when the outside is so refreshing? 
After lunch, I decided to do the walkies. I think I’m almost hooked. I’ll probably need to find something else to do when summer comes around, but until then, walking will keep me occupied just fine. It’s fun exploring new areas, not knowing what you’ll expect. A bit like travelling, except that at the end of the day, you’ll be back in your own bed; which happens to be in a hotel.
The walk was fantastic; the view fabulous. As I walked, I had a rough idea of where I was going. All I had with me was a street directory, and it had a rudimentary walking path made up of dashed lines. It’s anybody’s guess if that’s up-to-date, although it’s quite unlikely that the walking trails will change that soon. Then I stumbled upon the remains of an Artillary camp which has since been converted into a visitor’s center. After spending over an hour inside, I exited the compounds and headed back to the warf.
I had time to kill, so I found myself a park bench and took our my trusty book.
As the sun got lower, I had a quick dinner before to the ferry terminal. I decided to time my return ferry ride to coincide with sunset, which should make for excellent pictures. What I didn’t have, unfortunately was a camera with anti-shake built-in. Almost all of my shots were slightly blurry, since I was on a boat, and it’s not without engine vibrations. Still, I think I managed to get at least one ok shot.
