Just a quick check in from Perth

Hi all,
I know we said it would be Thailand before blogging again but just thought we'd let you know that we arrived in Perth ok. It was a long flight....2 hours into Brisbane from Cairns then a couple of hour wait for our connection to the west coast....another 5 hour 15 minute flight. Wouldn't be too bad with a big carrier but a bit long on Virgin Blue with no meal, drinks films etc. It was a little past one in the morning when when we arrived at our hotel but are very happy with it here. It's a large business hotel right on Scarborough Beach. Yesterday we hired a car for a couple of days and have been cruising round the city.
I have to say it really is a lovely place and we are so glad that we didn't miss it off the itinery...we nearly did!!! Lots of Brits here but what is most striking is the open greenery and the wide rivers. The city is clean, modern and stylish and roads are clear and free running....even in rush hour.
We met up with Sophie and Lucy yesterday (and their friend Charlotte, who's also really nice) for coffee and they are spending the day here at the hotel with us today. A bit of a break from their hostels i think.
We are headed out to Fremantle in the morning before dropping the car off. Apparently they have a wonderful weekend market and lots of pavement cafes dotted along the beach...very much looking forward to it. After that I guess it will be pool and beach before packing up and thinking about our Sunday afternoon flight to Bangkok. Another 7 hours I believe.
Anyway......as promised, we will be more in touch when we finally reach Asia. It's going to be very strange leaving Australia behind after three and a half months. So far it's been all westernised culture every since leaving home.......I guess that's about to change. It should be very interesting and certainly lots of fun.

More soon
Love to all

Phil and Fiona

P.S Glad you and Kev had a lovely break Jane and sorry to hear more of your tales of dental woe!!!
P.P.S You are absolutely right Shivy....it is bloody windy on the beach!!!