Like all great journeys in life they have a start, a middle [or two] & an end. Well we find ourselves at the end of what might seem a short trip but actually has felt like an epic adventure at times. Today we took it very easy. We had a laid back lunch/early dinner at Mythos, a Greek tavern. It was Sash’s idea, however I suspect he was thinking of me so thanks Sash. The food was very nostalgic for me & took me back to some wonderful childhood memories of mum’s cooking.
Point of interest for anyone who might travel to South Africa, venture into a Greek Tavern & order Saganaki. Well they do it a little different there & it is not grilled on both sides as we are accustomed to. In fact it looks & tastes nothing like Saganaki so look out.
We watched the Holland v Slovakia game in the restaurant, although it was very uneventful & Holland got up 2-1 [last minute penalty to Slovakia]. The trip has clearly been a taxing one as we both took the opportunity to have a snooze straight after our food [in the car no less – we are wrecked].
As it is our last day in South Africa, we are not in the mood for a late one so we find a simple bar/lounge near Sandton City to watch the Brazil v Chile game [Brazil are special to watch & win 3-0]. I have taken a liking to my new drink of vodka & red bull – had about 3 tonight – I still ended up sleeping ok.
We are up early [for us anyway] as it is time to checkout & head home. We are both happy to be going home & the trip back is a clear reminder of where we are going as there are aussies everywhere. We meet Rocco & his wife Danielle on the plane – they did their own tour of about 10 people which included...............Ron Barassi – what a small world given we bumped into him. Rocco is a sporting tragic & was reeling of stats, names & so forth – the bloke knows his shit. They also did a bit of Safari stuff up front before the Cup – so ideas for next time.
Well the final chapter on Volume 1 [for Kyri] & Volume 2 [for Sash] of life on the World Cup Trail is complete. I hope you have had fun following our journey & we look forward to chatting in person about our adventures over the next few day/weeks.
As one book closes another opens & now it is time to start planning for 2014 & the South American adventure – BRAZIL. I cannot wait & look forward to writing another chapter in the life of a travelling football tragic – OLA.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
Monday, June 28, 2010
Day 19 – Sunday 27th June [Arg v Mex Live]
It is our second-last full day in South Africa & we are b
oth eagerly awaiting ou
r departure back home. Joburg weather has been surprisingly stable. Days are bright & warm, while the nights settle into a serious chill.
We get off to a late start today as is typical. I spend some time down in the lobby skyping with Jackie & the kids – Love you guys. I happen to bump into a couple of Aussies who
have been travelling with the Fanatics but are now travelling
on their own. I think their names were Matt & Ryan [brothers], but I could be mistaken. They appear really cool guys, late 20’s & will be away for a total of 2 months – wow. They are also planning to do some more travelling through either Mozambique or Zanzibar – sounds awesome. Maybe a consideration for 
a future visit to South Africa but for now we have this t
our to finish before heading home.
We have tickets for tonight’s game between Argentina & Mexico – a highlight for me as I am a huge fan of Lionel Messi & am hoping to see some of his magic, although our seats are so far up I may need a telescope. In any case we decide to go to
Sandton first to watch the blockbuster England v Germany but not before stop
ping in at a local cafe in Germiston [based on a recommendation - however as we would find out maybe we should not be so lax with our time]. It has been billed as world war three – I am not kidding, that is exactly what some DJ on radio called it – by the way with the exception of the local South African Native Culture, Sash & I 
have observed that much of South African suburbia is very similar to that of Melbourne, as is the cultural diversity. South Africa appears to have been a settlement for many Europeans in much the same way as the US, Australia & Canada have been in the past, hence the similarity to Melbourne.
Anyway back to the game at hand. We move from place to place trying to get to watch the game. All restaurants, bars, pubs are jammed. We did not get there early & now we are struggling to find a place to watch the game. We finally have to make do with
make-shift seating at the Marco Polo Gaming Venue, but on their smaller screen – mate the place is packed. Either everyone loves the POMS, hates the Germans or a bit of both.
There is a lot of atmosphere as I guess you might expect with two teams like England & Germany going head to head – gee there is a lot of feeling between these two & it does not all relate to football. Germany ultimately do a hatchet job on the English & win the game 4-1 even though at 2-1 an English goal that crossed the goal line [great shot from Frank Lampard] was disallowed –
who knows what may have happened. The German faithful there took joy in sticking it to the English – I have a feeling they have been waiting a while. Both Sash & I are a little gutted as we both have a soft spot for the English Team & were hopeful they could advance, but the Germans are looking clinical again – I expect the British press to do a number on the English team – Fleet Street, the home of journalistic character assassins – good luck Capello.
Enough about the English, it’s time to get to our live game – Argentina v Mexico. Today we have decided to go early & take in
the atmosphere – we are leaving at about 6.20 & the game starts at 8.30. Well the drive to Soccer City is meant to be a short one from Sandton [GPS says 25 minutes]. To cut a very long story short, the drive takes 75 minutes, the parking is organised by Idi Amin’s grandson – what a pirate - & the walk to the ground took more time than my last Ironman event. Shit the organisation at Joburg compared with the other cities is crap at best. We actually get into our seats about 5 minutes into the match & yes we are sitting in Melbourne [well it feels that far away & they are category 1 Seats – Sep Blatter you bastard, where are you sitting eh].
The game itself turns out to be ok. Argentina are so powerful, they will be hard to beat & so full of stars. Messi was again sublime with moments of razzle dazzle. He is the new re-born Maradona, but the stand out today was Carlos Tevez who scored a sizzler from 30yds – you legend. They won 3-1 – way to good for the joyful Mexicans.
After the game we caught up with a couple of guys we met who are staying at our hotel – Thomas & Aras - two great blokes who are in good spirits tonight. Thomas is of German descent & is still over the moon about Germany’s win, while Aras is supporting Argentina & is also flying. We decide to head to a bar/lounge in Melville, a place near downtown Joburg that they went to yesterday. The bar was small but cosy & the music was ok. We spent an hour or so there before pulling stumps. Bars seem to close at 2am in Joburg so its closing time on another day/night in Joburg. Two sleeps to go.
oth eagerly awaiting ou
r departure back home. Joburg weather has been surprisingly stable. Days are bright & warm, while the nights settle into a serious chill.We get off to a late start today as is typical. I spend some time down in the lobby skyping with Jackie & the kids – Love you guys. I happen to bump into a couple of Aussies who
have been travelling with the Fanatics but are now travelling
on their own. I think their names were Matt & Ryan [brothers], but I could be mistaken. They appear really cool guys, late 20’s & will be away for a total of 2 months – wow. They are also planning to do some more travelling through either Mozambique or Zanzibar – sounds awesome. Maybe a consideration for 
a future visit to South Africa but for now we have this t
our to finish before heading home.We have tickets for tonight’s game between Argentina & Mexico – a highlight for me as I am a huge fan of Lionel Messi & am hoping to see some of his magic, although our seats are so far up I may need a telescope. In any case we decide to go to
Sandton first to watch the blockbuster England v Germany but not before stop
ping in at a local cafe in Germiston [based on a recommendation - however as we would find out maybe we should not be so lax with our time]. It has been billed as world war three – I am not kidding, that is exactly what some DJ on radio called it – by the way with the exception of the local South African Native Culture, Sash & I 
have observed that much of South African suburbia is very similar to that of Melbourne, as is the cultural diversity. South Africa appears to have been a settlement for many Europeans in much the same way as the US, Australia & Canada have been in the past, hence the similarity to Melbourne.Anyway back to the game at hand. We move from place to place trying to get to watch the game. All restaurants, bars, pubs are jammed. We did not get there early & now we are struggling to find a place to watch the game. We finally have to make do with
make-shift seating at the Marco Polo Gaming Venue, but on their smaller screen – mate the place is packed. Either everyone loves the POMS, hates the Germans or a bit of both.There is a lot of atmosphere as I guess you might expect with two teams like England & Germany going head to head – gee there is a lot of feeling between these two & it does not all relate to football. Germany ultimately do a hatchet job on the English & win the game 4-1 even though at 2-1 an English goal that crossed the goal line [great shot from Frank Lampard] was disallowed –
who knows what may have happened. The German faithful there took joy in sticking it to the English – I have a feeling they have been waiting a while. Both Sash & I are a little gutted as we both have a soft spot for the English Team & were hopeful they could advance, but the Germans are looking clinical again – I expect the British press to do a number on the English team – Fleet Street, the home of journalistic character assassins – good luck Capello.Enough about the English, it’s time to get to our live game – Argentina v Mexico. Today we have decided to go early & take in
the atmosphere – we are leaving at about 6.20 & the game starts at 8.30. Well the drive to Soccer City is meant to be a short one from Sandton [GPS says 25 minutes]. To cut a very long story short, the drive takes 75 minutes, the parking is organised by Idi Amin’s grandson – what a pirate - & the walk to the ground took more time than my last Ironman event. Shit the organisation at Joburg compared with the other cities is crap at best. We actually get into our seats about 5 minutes into the match & yes we are sitting in Melbourne [well it feels that far away & they are category 1 Seats – Sep Blatter you bastard, where are you sitting eh].The game itself turns out to be ok. Argentina are so powerful, they will be hard to beat & so full of stars. Messi was again sublime with moments of razzle dazzle. He is the new re-born Maradona, but the stand out today was Carlos Tevez who scored a sizzler from 30yds – you legend. They won 3-1 – way to good for the joyful Mexicans.
After the game we caught up with a couple of guys we met who are staying at our hotel – Thomas & Aras - two great blokes who are in good spirits tonight. Thomas is of German descent & is still over the moon about Germany’s win, while Aras is supporting Argentina & is also flying. We decide to head to a bar/lounge in Melville, a place near downtown Joburg that they went to yesterday. The bar was small but cosy & the music was ok. We spent an hour or so there before pulling stumps. Bars seem to close at 2am in Joburg so its closing time on another day/night in Joburg. Two sleeps to go.
Day 18 – Saturday 26th June [USA v Ghana]
Woke this morning & the chest cold is not getting any better. Sash is still in bed 
so I had the wild idea of going for a run around “the lake”. Dear oh dear it’s no Albert Park lake & after 25 minutes I pull the pin. I also did not take into consideration the high altitude. Joburg is about 5,000 feet above sea level & I must say it is affecting both Sash & I at nights – especially with shortness of breath.
Both Sash & I are getting home-sick. I know it might sound weird when you are in the mecca of the sporting world, but both of us cannot help feeling like we wish we back within familiar surroundings with familiar loved ones. It is actually weird
because it has only been 3 weeks, yet it feels like 3 months at times.
Well enough of the sombre stuff, time to step it up again. Today is round of 16 knock-out stage. Sixteen countries have said goodbye to the world cup & are going home, while the other sixteen battle it out for the holiest of trophies. Today’s combatants include Uruguay v South Korea followed by the late game USA v Ghana.
We have not really explored out of the way places in Joburg so we are playing it safe & go back to Sandton. We watch the first game
at the same restaurant we ate yesterday – Number 8, except we only drink – no food. Game is ok at best & Uruguay do what they need to win – 2-1. The Koreans are spirited though & do their country proud again & with such grace, they really are well-natured.
Sash & I take some more time apart [Sash goes shopping, Kyri gets lost............] before convening at the Marco Polo Gaming Bar – bit like a mini tabaret/sports bar. We park ourselves in front of the big screen & ready ourselves for the USA v Ghana game. There
are a small collection of US supporters around but they are seriously outnumbered by everyone else – as the last African team in the cup, the Ghanaians have all of South Africa’s support & they play accordingly. It is so symbolic of African people generally, the Ghanaians play with adventure & spirit, without fear. They ultimately win a classic match 2-1 & there is thunderous cheer throughout the venue & the Africans are partying tonight. Special mention to the designers of the toilets – you will never miss any action because you have to take a leak – 
& also to the Chileans, they are everywhere & in huge voice. They play Brazil in a couple of day so must be lapping up the party before a possible let-down.
After copious amounts of beer, Sash has found another way to culture me & has introduced me to Vodka & Red Bull..............hmm........yummy & by the third I am bouncing of the walls. Dude I can’t go to sleep now I am flying. We still feel up to a bit of partying so we take a chance & decide to venture out to a pub I saw on the internet – The Londoner – in the suburb of
Yoewville. I figure an English Pub, we are cooking. Well thanks to the GPS it is not long before we are there, however all is not what we had expected. The streets are dark & dingy & only local black South African people can be seen. We find the Londoner & there is music pounding from the place, however we are not brave enough to venture in as it appears to be a hangout for black South Africans. Whilst they appear to be having a good time, Sash & I cannot get passed how it would look for two white folk to suddenly infiltrate their possy – who knows we amy have had a 
great time or......................we ultimately chose to hightail it back to Sandton & take refuge at Caffe Maude & suck back a couple of beers while listening to some quite acceptable music being pumped out by DJ Pierre [he is wearing a beret, so I cannot think of anything else].
It is our first late night in a while & we get back home at about 2.30am. Enough for it is time for bed. Oh by the way thanks for waiting for me Sash as I needed to find a toilet in the complex at 2.00am & almost got lost again – he has my back.
so I had the wild idea of going for a run around “the lake”. Dear oh dear it’s no Albert Park lake & after 25 minutes I pull the pin. I also did not take into consideration the high altitude. Joburg is about 5,000 feet above sea level & I must say it is affecting both Sash & I at nights – especially with shortness of breath.Both Sash & I are getting home-sick. I know it might sound weird when you are in the mecca of the sporting world, but both of us cannot help feeling like we wish we back within familiar surroundings with familiar loved ones. It is actually weird
because it has only been 3 weeks, yet it feels like 3 months at times.Well enough of the sombre stuff, time to step it up again. Today is round of 16 knock-out stage. Sixteen countries have said goodbye to the world cup & are going home, while the other sixteen battle it out for the holiest of trophies. Today’s combatants include Uruguay v South Korea followed by the late game USA v Ghana.
We have not really explored out of the way places in Joburg so we are playing it safe & go back to Sandton. We watch the first game
at the same restaurant we ate yesterday – Number 8, except we only drink – no food. Game is ok at best & Uruguay do what they need to win – 2-1. The Koreans are spirited though & do their country proud again & with such grace, they really are well-natured.Sash & I take some more time apart [Sash goes shopping, Kyri gets lost............] before convening at the Marco Polo Gaming Bar – bit like a mini tabaret/sports bar. We park ourselves in front of the big screen & ready ourselves for the USA v Ghana game. There
are a small collection of US supporters around but they are seriously outnumbered by everyone else – as the last African team in the cup, the Ghanaians have all of South Africa’s support & they play accordingly. It is so symbolic of African people generally, the Ghanaians play with adventure & spirit, without fear. They ultimately win a classic match 2-1 & there is thunderous cheer throughout the venue & the Africans are partying tonight. Special mention to the designers of the toilets – you will never miss any action because you have to take a leak – 
& also to the Chileans, they are everywhere & in huge voice. They play Brazil in a couple of day so must be lapping up the party before a possible let-down.After copious amounts of beer, Sash has found another way to culture me & has introduced me to Vodka & Red Bull..............hmm........yummy & by the third I am bouncing of the walls. Dude I can’t go to sleep now I am flying. We still feel up to a bit of partying so we take a chance & decide to venture out to a pub I saw on the internet – The Londoner – in the suburb of
Yoewville. I figure an English Pub, we are cooking. Well thanks to the GPS it is not long before we are there, however all is not what we had expected. The streets are dark & dingy & only local black South African people can be seen. We find the Londoner & there is music pounding from the place, however we are not brave enough to venture in as it appears to be a hangout for black South Africans. Whilst they appear to be having a good time, Sash & I cannot get passed how it would look for two white folk to suddenly infiltrate their possy – who knows we amy have had a 
great time or......................we ultimately chose to hightail it back to Sandton & take refuge at Caffe Maude & suck back a couple of beers while listening to some quite acceptable music being pumped out by DJ Pierre [he is wearing a beret, so I cannot think of anything else].It is our first late night in a while & we get back home at about 2.30am. Enough for it is time for bed. Oh by the way thanks for waiting for me Sash as I needed to find a toilet in the complex at 2.00am & almost got lost again – he has my back.
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Day 17 – Friday 25th June [Portugal v Brazil]
First full day in Joburg & I gotta tell you we miss Capet
own & Durban. This pl
ace has far less atmosphere, but that is probably because unlike the other two cities we are now staying away from the city centre, in fact our hotel from the outside at least looks like n castle in the English country side, unfortunately that is where the similarities end – whilst not a dive, a fishbowl would be roomier. 
As is the daily trend, I awake before Sash & am feeling hungry so I decide to go back to the Harvard Cafe & check it out during the daytime. Well I am amazed at how huge the place is. It has a massive beer garden & so I decide to eat outside & take in some soothing Joburg UV rays – it is awesome. The 
breakfast was a little disappointing though as I love my runny eggs, but they were a little overcooked.......you cannot dip toast into overcooked yolk man...............but the service is as warm as the beating sun – cannot do enough for you. Before leaving the cafe I happened to notice a section dedicated to peace [check 
photo’s]. Appears back in 2008 there was a massive upheaval in South Africa provoked by Xenophobia, & Germiston became a refuge for many tourists who were victims of the unrest. Some of the stories written were very heart-warming & it speaks volumes for the love South African people have in 
their hearts.
Today we are spending the arvo & evening in Sandton. Think of it as the Chapel St of Johannesburg – where all the beautiful people are – not sure how Sash & I fit in but eh we will try & blend in. We start at a place called Number 8 – an exclusive looking restaurant, part of
the Michael Angelo 5-Star Hotel. Surprisingly the food was reasonably priced for such an up-market looking place, although according to Sash the food was rubbish. Here is another travel tip – when the bill came I said to Sash I am only leaving 5% tip because I am not that impressed with the service. Well when the waiter came over to process the transaction he requested that we make up the difference in cash because he had already processed the payment on credit card & still needed the rest of the tip because it should be at least 10% - what a wake-up call for me, I guess it pays to do research or as Sash said to me – I should just listen to him more – apparently he knew [as he sat & watched me make a goose of myself]. Having said all that I reckon I should have made a stand & told the waiter my 5% reflects your service – half as good as it should have been. I think I have been in the jungles of South Africa too long I am turning into a savage – Invest in a mirror & take a long hard look at yourself Kyri.
Oh, Brazil & Portugal played out an un-entertaining 0-0 draw while Ivory Coast beat North Korea 3-0. After much anticipation, the scene with the waiter was more eventful then Brazil v Portugal, but that’s life.
After dinner we walked around Nelson Mandela Square [what a massive statue] & it is huge – so easy to get lost. The square is set up like a southern European Piazza [open area],with outdoor tables set up for eating & drinking – really beautiful. Sony [as the official technology sponsor] have set up a huge marquee in the middle of the square & it detracts from what would be a beautiful area to walk around. Sash & I sat for a while & drank, chatted & watched the world go by – feels really good to go so slow – not feeling the pressure to do touristy things.
We spotted a couple of notable items – our Mexican friends full of hope [they play Argentina in 2 days – good luck] who wanted 2 tickets to the game which Sash & I have hmmm........no deal, another Mexican who is selling 2 tickets to USA v Ghana, oh what could have been if Aust had gotten through – those tickets would be ours & finally Raj we find a restaurant you might enjoy eating at, who knew you were a South African Restaurant Owner – you sneak you.
We finished the night at a place called Caffe Maude – a quaint little bar where we watched the rest of Spain v Chile – Spain won 2-0. Not so many people - a few Chileans , but certainly not the vibrancy of the other cities. Sash & I are having an early night again – hard to spot any nightlife in Joburg so Cafe Crevat [Bed] seems the obvious hangout.
own & Durban. This pl
ace has far less atmosphere, but that is probably because unlike the other two cities we are now staying away from the city centre, in fact our hotel from the outside at least looks like n castle in the English country side, unfortunately that is where the similarities end – whilst not a dive, a fishbowl would be roomier. 
As is the daily trend, I awake before Sash & am feeling hungry so I decide to go back to the Harvard Cafe & check it out during the daytime. Well I am amazed at how huge the place is. It has a massive beer garden & so I decide to eat outside & take in some soothing Joburg UV rays – it is awesome. The 
breakfast was a little disappointing though as I love my runny eggs, but they were a little overcooked.......you cannot dip toast into overcooked yolk man...............but the service is as warm as the beating sun – cannot do enough for you. Before leaving the cafe I happened to notice a section dedicated to peace [check 
photo’s]. Appears back in 2008 there was a massive upheaval in South Africa provoked by Xenophobia, & Germiston became a refuge for many tourists who were victims of the unrest. Some of the stories written were very heart-warming & it speaks volumes for the love South African people have in 
their hearts.Today we are spending the arvo & evening in Sandton. Think of it as the Chapel St of Johannesburg – where all the beautiful people are – not sure how Sash & I fit in but eh we will try & blend in. We start at a place called Number 8 – an exclusive looking restaurant, part of
the Michael Angelo 5-Star Hotel. Surprisingly the food was reasonably priced for such an up-market looking place, although according to Sash the food was rubbish. Here is another travel tip – when the bill came I said to Sash I am only leaving 5% tip because I am not that impressed with the service. Well when the waiter came over to process the transaction he requested that we make up the difference in cash because he had already processed the payment on credit card & still needed the rest of the tip because it should be at least 10% - what a wake-up call for me, I guess it pays to do research or as Sash said to me – I should just listen to him more – apparently he knew [as he sat & watched me make a goose of myself]. Having said all that I reckon I should have made a stand & told the waiter my 5% reflects your service – half as good as it should have been. I think I have been in the jungles of South Africa too long I am turning into a savage – Invest in a mirror & take a long hard look at yourself Kyri.Oh, Brazil & Portugal played out an un-entertaining 0-0 draw while Ivory Coast beat North Korea 3-0. After much anticipation, the scene with the waiter was more eventful then Brazil v Portugal, but that’s life.
After dinner we walked around Nelson Mandela Square [what a massive statue] & it is huge – so easy to get lost. The square is set up like a southern European Piazza [open area],with outdoor tables set up for eating & drinking – really beautiful. Sony [as the official technology sponsor] have set up a huge marquee in the middle of the square & it detracts from what would be a beautiful area to walk around. Sash & I sat for a while & drank, chatted & watched the world go by – feels really good to go so slow – not feeling the pressure to do touristy things.
We spotted a couple of notable items – our Mexican friends full of hope [they play Argentina in 2 days – good luck] who wanted 2 tickets to the game which Sash & I have hmmm........no deal, another Mexican who is selling 2 tickets to USA v Ghana, oh what could have been if Aust had gotten through – those tickets would be ours & finally Raj we find a restaurant you might enjoy eating at, who knew you were a South African Restaurant Owner – you sneak you.
We finished the night at a place called Caffe Maude – a quaint little bar where we watched the rest of Spain v Chile – Spain won 2-0. Not so many people - a few Chileans , but certainly not the vibrancy of the other cities. Sash & I are having an early night again – hard to spot any nightlife in Joburg so Cafe Crevat [Bed] seems the obvious hangout.
Friday, June 25, 2010
Day 16 – Thursday 24th June [Drive back to Joburg]
Not much to report today folks. Slow start to the day in N
elspruit – little sleepy holl
ow [not unlike Geelong – a regional city]. I took in a bit of cooked breakfast at a local diner [Brewers], while Sash took in a few more ZZZZ’s. We are on the road before midday to try & get back to Joburg before the afternoon game.
For those keeping track of results today Italy got a nice surprise –
some economy airfare tickets back to Rome – seeya spag
hetti munchers – first time to not advance since 1974 – congrats to any Slovakians out there [Slovakia beat them 3-2 & advance to next stage].
The Kiwis on the other hand could not get a win against Paraguay & go home now [score was 0-0]. They did not lose a game though so can be
very proud of their efforts – good first up crack since 1982.
Sean & Cairan if you get to read this my Trans-Tasman brothers, stand tall because you leave with heads high – undefeated no less. Last time a team did not win or lose a game in the group stage, they went on to win the world cup – Italy. You cannot help bad luck – until next time boys, see you in Brazil.
We took in a bite to eat at a place called Harvard Cafe – it is actually an airfield & so will plan to go there during daylight – it looks like it would be pumping during a busy day. Watched the
evening games there also [Holland v Cameroon 2-1, & Japan v Denmark 3-1]. Redemption for the Japanese after 2006 – Nihon Ichiban [Japan Number 1].
We are staying in a suburb called Germiston – I reckon it might be light industrial, we will take a drive over next few days – yeah we have hired a car to get around Joburg – its not a compact location like Capetown & Durban are.
Point of interest for the day was the drive back from Nelspruit & the fire-burning on the side of the road [check photo’s] – in real
life it looked much more scary – not sure what the CFA would say about this practice – once again welcome to South Africa.
Bye for now & hopefully some brighter stories over next few days.
elspruit – little sleepy holl
ow [not unlike Geelong – a regional city]. I took in a bit of cooked breakfast at a local diner [Brewers], while Sash took in a few more ZZZZ’s. We are on the road before midday to try & get back to Joburg before the afternoon game.For those keeping track of results today Italy got a nice surprise –
some economy airfare tickets back to Rome – seeya spag
hetti munchers – first time to not advance since 1974 – congrats to any Slovakians out there [Slovakia beat them 3-2 & advance to next stage].The Kiwis on the other hand could not get a win against Paraguay & go home now [score was 0-0]. They did not lose a game though so can be
very proud of their efforts – good first up crack since 1982.Sean & Cairan if you get to read this my Trans-Tasman brothers, stand tall because you leave with heads high – undefeated no less. Last time a team did not win or lose a game in the group stage, they went on to win the world cup – Italy. You cannot help bad luck – until next time boys, see you in Brazil.
We took in a bite to eat at a place called Harvard Cafe – it is actually an airfield & so will plan to go there during daylight – it looks like it would be pumping during a busy day. Watched the
evening games there also [Holland v Cameroon 2-1, & Japan v Denmark 3-1]. Redemption for the Japanese after 2006 – Nihon Ichiban [Japan Number 1].We are staying in a suburb called Germiston – I reckon it might be light industrial, we will take a drive over next few days – yeah we have hired a car to get around Joburg – its not a compact location like Capetown & Durban are.
Point of interest for the day was the drive back from Nelspruit & the fire-burning on the side of the road [check photo’s] – in real
life it looked much more scary – not sure what the CFA would say about this practice – once again welcome to South Africa.Bye for now & hopefully some brighter stories over next few days.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Day 15 – Wednesday 23rd June [Aust v Serbia Live]
Today is the day. Any football supporters dream. We are heading to Nelspruit, a
bout 360km east of Johannesburg to watch our beloved Socceroos take on the might of Serbia – it should be a cracker & we cannot wait. There is a bit to get through first so let’s start at the start. It is checkout day in Durban & Sash is still feeling the effects of his fever. As expected I am a tower of support & i reckon I am the single biggest reason he is getting better – I think Sash just grows an extra inch when he is around me.
Watching him finish his packing though is painful – he is lumbering a bit like Justin Madden used to for the blues. After checkout I
talk Sash into exploiting the Media Shuttle for a free ride to the Airport – it sounded like a good idea at the time. Get this, we have been in the bus travelling for just over 20 minutes when the driver passes our hotel again – there is less than an hour now before our plane leaves & I am sure there is steam coming from Sash’s ears – I think he may be less than impressed with my idea about the shuttle – as he said taxi is a to b, shuttle is a to b to c to d back to b skip to g & all cos its free. The driver assures us “no worries” we will be there in 20 minutes. Well let me get to the end of this 
because there is a bit to get through. We managed to make it the airport with minutes to spare & were the last ones on the plane – the day is off to a shaky start & it gets even more entertaining.
The flight is a shocker for me – I hate take-offs & landings – anyone have remedies – I am constantly getting nauseous & it pisses me off. Anyway we get to Joburg Airport & now we have to find a way to get to Nelspruit [360km away]. The good news is there are heaps of Car Rental Companies – the bad news they are all booked – travel tip “plan ahead”. We walk into the last place &
someone above is smiling – we get the last car in the airport – are you kidding me. It was looking shaky for a moment. The drive to Nelspruit was awesome. Not sure if you have ever driven on South African Highways but wow. After an initial hiccup [freeway accident blocking traffic – but a local helped us out] we are on our way. Before long we are doing 140kmh......yeah 140kmh [speed limit is 120kmh though]. If you are thinking I was speeding, mate there were blokes & sheilas going past me like I was standing still, yet felt safe at all times – no bull [check photo of speedo]. 
We get to Nelspruit at about 6pm & we need a place to stay tonight – not driving back – no way. Once again we have no reservation so we start exploring – suddenly Sash spots a Formula 1 Hotel Chain. He starts proclaiming “let’s go there I have seen them on the internet they are cheap”. Well all I am going to say is they were asking $160 a night & have a look at the photo – that is the whole room & yes I got the top bunk – not a privilege let me assure you. Haggling got us about a $20 discount, but the manager told us they usually charge $60/night but its World Cup so we can
charge what we like – welcome to South Africa 2010.
Time to get to the game, put all the shit behind us & give the Aussies everything we have. Sash is doing a Lazarus. After some pizza & coke he is fired up & moving again – well slowly anyway. Our hotel has one positive, it is a short walk from the shuttle taking people to the stadium –yes the shuttle is free & its my idea. After a short ride we are there – Mbombela Stadium, more akin to a true football stadium, compact & close to the action. This is the fifth & sixth live game we are watching so we feel lucky, but
nothing can compare to watching your country – we are stoked. A big thank-you must go to all the Australians who travelled to show their support & there were thousands as evidenced by all the yellow in the photos - & shit can they make some noise.
The Socceroos did us proud winning 2-1 with classic goals from pin-up boy Tim Cahill & Brett Holman. We did not qualify for the next stage but we stood tall & proud & it felt great to be an Aussie. We even got to bump into some old friends [check the photo of one Ron Barassi]. All in all a trip well worth it even though we did not
advance – we would not have missed it for the world - & as for the Serbs [consisting of Ivanovic from Chelsea, Vidic from Manchester United & Stankovic from Inter Milan to name a few], well they missed out advancing thanks to us[ha ha suffer in your jocks B1 & B2 – you know who you are]. Been a huge, huge day & with all manner of chest colds pounding Sash & I it is time to head back to our jail cell, I mean Hotel & get some sleep. Another long drive back tomorrow.
Bye for now
bout 360km east of Johannesburg to watch our beloved Socceroos take on the might of Serbia – it should be a cracker & we cannot wait. There is a bit to get through first so let’s start at the start. It is checkout day in Durban & Sash is still feeling the effects of his fever. As expected I am a tower of support & i reckon I am the single biggest reason he is getting better – I think Sash just grows an extra inch when he is around me.Watching him finish his packing though is painful – he is lumbering a bit like Justin Madden used to for the blues. After checkout I
talk Sash into exploiting the Media Shuttle for a free ride to the Airport – it sounded like a good idea at the time. Get this, we have been in the bus travelling for just over 20 minutes when the driver passes our hotel again – there is less than an hour now before our plane leaves & I am sure there is steam coming from Sash’s ears – I think he may be less than impressed with my idea about the shuttle – as he said taxi is a to b, shuttle is a to b to c to d back to b skip to g & all cos its free. The driver assures us “no worries” we will be there in 20 minutes. Well let me get to the end of this 
because there is a bit to get through. We managed to make it the airport with minutes to spare & were the last ones on the plane – the day is off to a shaky start & it gets even more entertaining.The flight is a shocker for me – I hate take-offs & landings – anyone have remedies – I am constantly getting nauseous & it pisses me off. Anyway we get to Joburg Airport & now we have to find a way to get to Nelspruit [360km away]. The good news is there are heaps of Car Rental Companies – the bad news they are all booked – travel tip “plan ahead”. We walk into the last place &
someone above is smiling – we get the last car in the airport – are you kidding me. It was looking shaky for a moment. The drive to Nelspruit was awesome. Not sure if you have ever driven on South African Highways but wow. After an initial hiccup [freeway accident blocking traffic – but a local helped us out] we are on our way. Before long we are doing 140kmh......yeah 140kmh [speed limit is 120kmh though]. If you are thinking I was speeding, mate there were blokes & sheilas going past me like I was standing still, yet felt safe at all times – no bull [check photo of speedo]. 
We get to Nelspruit at about 6pm & we need a place to stay tonight – not driving back – no way. Once again we have no reservation so we start exploring – suddenly Sash spots a Formula 1 Hotel Chain. He starts proclaiming “let’s go there I have seen them on the internet they are cheap”. Well all I am going to say is they were asking $160 a night & have a look at the photo – that is the whole room & yes I got the top bunk – not a privilege let me assure you. Haggling got us about a $20 discount, but the manager told us they usually charge $60/night but its World Cup so we can
charge what we like – welcome to South Africa 2010.Time to get to the game, put all the shit behind us & give the Aussies everything we have. Sash is doing a Lazarus. After some pizza & coke he is fired up & moving again – well slowly anyway. Our hotel has one positive, it is a short walk from the shuttle taking people to the stadium –yes the shuttle is free & its my idea. After a short ride we are there – Mbombela Stadium, more akin to a true football stadium, compact & close to the action. This is the fifth & sixth live game we are watching so we feel lucky, but
nothing can compare to watching your country – we are stoked. A big thank-you must go to all the Australians who travelled to show their support & there were thousands as evidenced by all the yellow in the photos - & shit can they make some noise.The Socceroos did us proud winning 2-1 with classic goals from pin-up boy Tim Cahill & Brett Holman. We did not qualify for the next stage but we stood tall & proud & it felt great to be an Aussie. We even got to bump into some old friends [check the photo of one Ron Barassi]. All in all a trip well worth it even though we did not
advance – we would not have missed it for the world - & as for the Serbs [consisting of Ivanovic from Chelsea, Vidic from Manchester United & Stankovic from Inter Milan to name a few], well they missed out advancing thanks to us[ha ha suffer in your jocks B1 & B2 – you know who you are]. Been a huge, huge day & with all manner of chest colds pounding Sash & I it is time to head back to our jail cell, I mean Hotel & get some sleep. Another long drive back tomorrow.Bye for now
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