2 Weeks and More

Ok, I missed my 2nd weekend update, so I will give a longer one today.

First of all, I am still staying in the motel. Will be until next weekend, then it is the big move.

I have started working, 3rd day at work today. As I am not really a 'newbie', I guess I am not exactly entitled to my honeymoon period. :)

So taking up things pretty quickly and will be out to face-the-world next week : By conducting a training session.

Things in this office is pretty systematic. At least I would say the new staff orientation and admin work is pretty thorough. I came in my first day with my desk ready with stationery, my phone has been programmed and my name shows on it. Internal phone list has been updated with my mobile and everything. Brand new 17" monitor laptop is all installed and ready to be used.

Getting my bank accounts and all admin work finalized. Now I just lack a credit card.

Have been to Bondi Beach and a smaller Dee Why Beach the last 2 weekends. Been raining recently, so was just there for a while to soak in the mild sun (hidden behind clouds), enjoy the sea breeze and eating seafood basket (how apt).

Not sure what I will be doing this coming weekend. If it rains, I may spend more time shopping for furniture in the malls. Next weekend, is definitely the big move. And I am looking forward to it.

Blogging in office now, so not much photographs to add. I will be putting photos of my new place once I move it.

In the mean time, it is down to work...

1st Week in OZ. Updates

First week was sort of stressful. Especially in the rental section.

Paperwork in Australia is almost quite unwelcoming for newcomers. Most of the paperwork seems like a catch-22 situation. For example, you need a residential address to apply for a driving licence, bank accounts, etc. And I can't get a rental unless a bank statement is attached to the rental application.

Definitely need local assistance to start off.

Rentals are all taken up, and prices are higher than I anticipated. Tight supply and lots of demand in Sydney. Had to activate my 'backup plan' and rent from a close friend.

So definitely had a few bad night sleep due to this stress.

Haven't had time to do any sightseeing.

On the plus side, I bought a new car. Ford Focus Ghia Sedan for about A$28k. Nice, comfortable with all the bells and whistles. Going to pay in full and getting it in a couple of days time. In time for me to get around, get my stuff, and get to work.

Once my new place is ready, I will have to spend another bomb on furnishings. Beds, Sofas, TV, Dining Table & Chairs...

Oh and I already have my NSW driving licence. Talk about efficiency. I filled in the form, queued up, have my photo taken by their computer, and have my credit-card sized licence issued all within the hour (including queue time). Lets see how fast you get your licence in oh-so-efficient Singapore.

Anyway, am now in my new office for a couple of hours, just to get to know the people and the place, and to download emails on my PC.... :)

Guess the next update will be another weeks time, when I start working.

Quick Updates

Ok.. Been in Sydney for a few days.

Still running around trying to secure a living place. That is the critical point before I can settle most of my other stuff.

Without a proper residential address, I can't apply for lots of things.

Wish me luck...