After a good night we’re raring to go, but having had nothing beyond a dreadful to nonexistent signal for the best part of four days we both have matters to attend to, so we don’t commence manoeuvres until about 10;00. Last time, we drove to Bondi but that’s not an option this time, and although it’s only five miles, we take the subway to Bondi Junction, thus saving three.
Then we walk to the famous beach, and commence the beautiful coastal walk towards Coogee, some if this we did last time, but of course had to back-track for the car so we didn’t go as far. There are so many beaches, bays and coves and every little turn brings a new vista. The cafe where we had lunch last time has closed so we pick up sustenance at Coogee, and over lunch finally decide to see Carmen tonight. It’s ludicrously expensive and we’d originally said no, but I checked and two fabulous front centre dress-circle were available so we just couldn’t resist! Except Sydney Opera House’s booking system won’t work on a phone, so we call them only to be told the wait-time is at least 20 minutes!
So we decide to change our return journey to go back via the Box Office and see if those two seats are available. We enjoy various interesting areas of the city as we walk, including the new tramsheds, the huge royal racecourse and the cricket ground.
Two hours later we arrive but they are gone, however the lovely boy behind the window gets us two great stalls seats and gives us a discount! So we will enjoy Carmen even more having saved over $200.
After our sixteen miles we come home to rest for an hour before changing and heading back to Circular Quay for an early Italian.
We dine al fresco right on the quay, before heading to the Opera House. Carmen is a brilliant production and one of the finest we’ve seen, particularly noteworthy is José played by Roberto Aronica. The set is quite simple, but the costumes are excellent and the orchestra and performance exceptional. So was it worth $500 - yes definitely! And would it have been worth $700? Yes again it really was an exceptional production and performance!!
We stroll back in the rain to our hotel when I finally get to upload the first three days of photos to FaceBook before turning in as we have another early start.
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