Rabual

After a few days at sea it was interesting to visit PNG, Rabual in particular.  The volcano was smoking but the smell wasn't too bad, it was very dusty but not that you could see.  It was most noticeable when you took your clothes off and got in the shower.  The children were delightful and the locals very friendly.  The general feeling was that the $40 we paid in a visa tax should be spent in Rabaul.

We have had another 2 days at sea and are getting closer to Australia with mixed feelings all around about packing, and all the things we will have to think about doing ourselves when we get home.  Won't be able to stick a plastic sign in the door saying "make up room now" or line up for dinner at 5:45 or 7:45 & then choose from a menu.  Drinks will be cheaper, washing machines easier to get, pillows will be firmer & showers bigger.

Won't be playing bowls every afternoon, or golf in the morning or trivia twice a day & winning occasionally but thats a good thing. Cruising is fun and you meet lots of people but there really isn't anything as good as your own home, family and bed.