Sunday 23rd December on the boat to Manly

After a heated debate over an excellent breakfast it was decided, by a very narrow margin, that we should proceed to Manly by ferry and cycle along the esplanade. It was a a beautiful day and we were soon on the ferry which most people seemed to think was too early for a Sunday and the ferry was probably only 1/3 full

Sir Arthur Philips apparently name Manly Cove as he observed that the indigenous people exhibited "confidence and manly behaviour". I think that political correctness would not allow him to use such language today

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It was perfect weather for a ride and when we first started the beaches were relatively quiet but, being a Sunday, they filled up quickly and by late morning were crowded. Sadly the LLW had left her surfboard at the hotel so was not able to join the myriad surfers in the bay

We probably encountered more kamikaze pedestrians since Tenerife, made worse by individuals insisting upon constantly checking Facebook, whilst randomly crossing the cycle way, head down and at infinitely variable angles. We survived, but the stress required the LLW to sit down immediately after returning the bikes with a calming muffin and cappuccino.

Back on the ferry and by now the ferries were busy both ways and arriving at Circular Quay we had to fight our way through the crowds.

After  a rest at the hotel, we went out for dinner and Ray had spotted a highly recommended Indian restaurant called The Spice Room, right on the Quay and only 5 minutes walk away. We found the restaurant fairly easily and were lucky to get a table as some were turned away. A table for two was available and we were soon enjoying a very good meal.

Afterwards we walked along by the Opera House and enjoyed the beautiful evening along with several thousand others from every part of the Globe.

We don't usually do selfies but could not resist one this evening and we certainly weren't alone.