I opted to take care of some mundane chores like laundry at the laundromat a couple of blocks away. That turned into a mini adventure when, right in the midst of drying my clothes, the owner/manager and a workman came in and told us that we needed to shut the dryers down immediately because there was a gas leak! Thank goodness for the hairdryer in the hotel room! Flexibility is the key when overseas! :0)
I went and confirmed I had a reservation at the hotel where I am to meet the rest of the riders tomorrow. It’s only a couple of blocks away so the logistics won’t be too bad. Unfortunately, tomorrow will mark the end of my nice accomodations until I get to Queenstown in about 4 weeks.
Right now I’m staying at the Skycity Grand Hotel which is quite nice. Tomorrow I’m at another hotel and will have at least one roommate (who I do not know!). And Friday night, I will be in my tent! But, at least we don’t have to cook at the end of the day – that part is all taken care of.
I’m sure many days will consist of – get up, pack gear, ride bike and take pictures, get to camp, set up tent, eat dinner, collapse – repeat! But fortunately on this trip, we have a rest day after every three of four riding days so that should break things up nicely.
Auckland has population of about 1.5 million and seems to be a very cosmopolitan city. It has a very diverse population, it seems to be a real melting pot. And there are tons of restaurants and coffee shops reflecting this diversity.
And since I am one who doesn’t really like going to nice restaurants by myself ( although I do sometimes) I decided to find another little hole in the wall place tonight. I remember seeing a “convenience store/ take out place” when I did my laundry. It was busy around lunch time and sure enough when I went there tonight, it was doing a brisk business! Always a good sign!
I had a lamb and rice dish ( covered with hot sauce),a small salad, and a soda – $10. It was delicious and was the least expensive meal I’ve had here. And I’m hoping the hot sauce will kill any remaining ‘bugs’ in me! :0) Nothing like a great little hole-in-the-wall eatery when you’re traveling!
Auckland seems like a really nice place! I would like to have explored a bit more but between getting my bike and gear ready and fighting this cold, further exploration will have to wait until next time!