The Dalai Lama

I still find it quite difficult to put into words what I experienced yesterday. I honestly didn't think it would affect me so much. I'm not religious, and I'm quite a skeptical person when it comes to philosophical speeches... But I guess the Dalai Lama is just one of those people who warms your heart and makes you want to become a better person, lead a more meaningful life... I know it sounds cliché, but I really believe seeing this man was a life-changing moment for me. 

I feel ever so lucky to have been able to attend such a special event. All thanks to my wonderful colleague Linda, who gave me a ticket as a thank you present. I never thought I would ever have the opportunity to see the Dalai Lama, let alone attend one of his speeches. But I believe everything happens for a reason... Doro saw him in Nepal a few months ago, and I read "7 ans d'aventure au Tibet" while I was in Thailand, which I couldn't put down (I actually mentioned the book on this blog back in January...) 

He really puts things in perspective, in such a simple, logical way. He doesn't preach, he puts forward a message which has nothing to do with religion, it's just pure common-sense. Anybody could deliver his speech...but the Dalai Lama has such an aura, he manages to captivate an audience of 10,000 people in a way I've never seen before, yet he stays so down-to-earth and humble. His English isn't great and he mumbles a lot, but he still succeeds in getting the message across and touches people from all walks of life and all cultural backgrounds. I still can't get over how warm, charismatic, inspiring and funny he is. He just looks like a wise old grandpa you want to take home and talk with for hours and hours. The people who received his blessing on stage got so emotional, it was truly beautiful to watch.

Here's an article about the two events I attended:

http://www.dalailama.com/news/post/962-concluding-teachings-public-talk-on-ethical-mindfulness-in-everyday-life-and-addressing-a-gathering-for-tibet-in-sydney

Cate Blanchett

Katie Noonan, who performed "Never know your luck" during the free gathering for Tibet (go straight to 1:30 for the song). Incredible singer, I was blown away, she sounds so much better live than in this video...

Just one of those days I will never forget...

Love,

Laura xxx

Melbourne baby!

I went to Melbourne for a long weekend to visit my friend Eda, who I met in Sydney a few months ago. 

I found Tiger Airways was the cheapest and most convenient way to get there from Sydney. You also have the coach option but it takes about 12 hours :)

I decided to book two nights at the Nomads All Nations hostel for 25 AUD/night (http://nomadsworld.com/hostels/australia/nomads-all-nations), a 10-minute walk from the Southern Cross Station (20 minutes from the airport with the Skybus service - 17 AUD one-way; 28 AUD return). 

Eda is actually living there for free in exchange for a few hours' housekeeping per day. I met so many amazing people over the weekend, the hostel had such a great vibe, I would definitely recommend it :) Try out the neighbouring U-Bar in the evenings, that's where all the backpackers hang out, amazing atmosphere! The Deck Lounge Bar is also a nice trendy place to go to if you want to mix with "true" Melbourners ;)

My general impression was that life seems much more laid-back in Melbourne... I really enjoyed my time there, I felt right at home, people were so friendly and relaxed. All the backpackers I met who had been to Sydney previously told me they preferred Melbourne (including my friends Eda and Bero). It also seems easier to find casual jobs there (as well as cheaper accommodation!)

The weather wasn't too good and I was having such a nice time at the hostel that I must admit I didn't do much sightseeing during the three days I was there! 

Here are the few things I did get up to:

Immigration Museum (free for students, 10 AUD for others)

City Circle tram (free tram line going round the city with audio commentary)

Graffitti lanes

Federation Square

The huuuuge casino

Walk along the river at night with balls of fire going off every few minutes

I really hope to go back before I leave Australia! 

Love,

Laura xxx