We were finally allowed off the ship yesterday morning March 18th. We were bussed to a hotel in Perth. It is quite a nice hotel, but admittedly, I’ve been spoiled. We were told to not leave our rooms until departure for the airport. The Australian government has penalties of $50,000 and/or 1 year in jail for anyone caught in violation. Some former passengers conspired to meet for wine and dinner this evening, since we are sure we are all Corona free. The fine and penalty are a deterrent for me. I will not do anything that might remotely impede my departure. My flight departs at 5:30 am tomorrow for Sydney. Then I go to Dallas. Once there I get a plane for home.
But surprise! I got a call this afternoon, March 19th, saying I was free to go about the city as I pleased. I took a wonderful walk around downtown Perth for a couple of hours until sunset. I will leave my hotel room to go anywhere else for dinner. Perth has 2 million residents. It is a vibrant and seemingly youthful city. There are posters advising people to stay 2 meters from others in public places. Other than a very few people wearing face masks, there was no suggestion of a pandemic. This city seems to move at a moderate pace, faster than San Antonio for example, but slower than Chicago. It was easy to achieve that 2-meter personal space.
I am glad to head home. This leg of the adventure is over, but the whole is not yet done. I will self-isolate for 2 weeks at home. I found staying in a hotel room for a day and a half, a bit trying, but I will complete the isolation. I understand the epidemiology and respect it. Corona has changed the world in some fundamental ways and it is not over yet.
Linda
Safe travels, Linda!