Joanna: You have no idea how much I hate flying!! The words "Russian Helicopter" just don't do it for me! Apart from that, I totally agree with you.

Betty: Kyoto is a definite must! Even a more 'must do' than the Harbour Bridge! It's really a lovely place and you must see the Golden and Silver Palaces. Having said that, I hope they're palaces and I hope they're in Kyoto! It was a few years ago! I also loved the 'Something or Other Walk' - gee I'm a great help! It was either poets, Philosophers!! or something along that line. I shall ask Michael on the weekend. Maybe your husband will be able to help.

I'd love to have a pow-wow about what clothing to take. Because the only way to get home from Osaka is with Jetstar (a Qantas cheapie), I'm limited strictly to 20kg which makes life difficult!

Congratulations on booking Sydney to Auckland. I thought about it (the group is going to be fabulous) but I have serious misgivings about sailing that lovely stretch of water in the Navigator. I may have been talked into it had it been the Voyager (but I really don't think I should push my luck with hubby). The last time I sailed that stretch put me off cruising for 40 years and it goes without saying, I can't not cruise for another 40 years! I do hope I get to meet all the LCTers when they arrive in Sydney - dinner on board? Hint, hint?

Michael has me booked on London to Monte Carlo next September, so I think I had better be happy with that.

Donna: I would have loved to stay on until Singapore as it is much easier to get home from there but unfortunately Michael can't get any more time off work. Apart from that, my daughter will be crying out for help as her twins arrive mid-July! I feel guilty enough already for disappearing on her.

I haven't looked up your ports after we get off but if you have the chance, try to see Hiroshema - it's very moving and worth seeing.

Lee