I said Hey!

I knock on my door today at about 22:15.

I went outside and there were some black and grey clad hoodies across the road, smoking. About 15-18 year olds I think. I asked if they knocked on the door and they said no. But when I retreated inside to call the police, I saw one creep up the drive to do it again. I opened the door and he ran. They heard me reporting and walked off round the corner. About half way up the road one of them shouted PAKI! I stayed on the phone with the Police and followed them for a while, at a distance. They didn't come back and I just waited for the Police to file the event.

That's the second 'Paki' event we've had in 2 years (see Just found this on the car). That's in addition to the regular aggro on the street (general yobo behaviour at anything up to 3am). People sit on the wall like it's a park – large groups. We've had broken windows on cars, a smashed wing mirror, cars scratched over and over (my last car within 2 days of buying).

And yet I know it's virtually impossible to find these people without cameras and positive id's from witnesses. What can we do? I've mentioned I want a camera on the street. There are two old ladies across the road, an old man next door and families in the houses 2-3 doors away on each side. My wife feels intimidated when she comes home late from work and there's people playing football in the street at 10pm, and sitting on our front wall.

"Got a fag?" one kid said.

"No. Did one of you knock on my door?"

"No, it was these other kids – do you want me to chase them?"

"Yes, go on then".

"Give us a tenner then."

Despite being enthralled at the intellectual level of their conversation, I decided to end it and call the cops. 

Just 2 weeks, about 20 people were shouting, screaming and running around at about 1am, outside. These things happen…

But today was personal. It was interactive, at my house, racist, flippant, intimidating and worrying. 

I wish I had video'd. Wish I could id them. It was over quickly and I was on the phone so I couldn't take a pic. I'll have to react quicker next time and get some video I guess. 

Despite the lack of info, the Police had a drive around but no luck today. Last time, when a kid was throwing rocks at my neighbour's door, a PCSO knew the kid and it got sorted. Maybe these guys will return and I'll be able to collect information to pass on. I wonder if the neighbours had any agro today… I will ask later because in the past I have had to encourage neighbours to call the police. If the police aren't told then it's not reported and it didn't happen. We need to create awareness and involve the police for every event otherwise it could get worse.

K 

He offered an executive suite as a replacement as I was complaining that I’m busy.

Walking into the “executive suite” was like deja vu. It was identical. I said what’s executive about this? He said you get a thicker blanket and an extra bottle of water.

A big “WTF?” from me there, using all my facial muscles. Very clever racket going on here at Holiday Inn.

- K

Location:Belgium

Then the check-in assistant told me there was only 5 people on the flight. Really? The Euro is spasming and only 4 other people are travelling to Brussels? Surely more people are needed to rescue Greece!

A black tinted-out Merc van picked me up at the airport – complementary shuttle. I had a workout in the gym at the 4-star Holiday Inn and slept.

Now I’m blogging from the breakfast lounge. Pancakes, espresso machines, pain-au-chocolates, funky cheeses and eggs/beans/shrooms.

I miss Australia less today. Miss my wife more though she would love this.

Location:Belgium

A Nigerian car park operator pointed me to the bus station where I now sit, in the attached Roman titled Cafe Nero, having been served an American Cheesecake by an Eastern European barista. It’s not Sydney but it’s diverse enough to be home!

- K

Location:Inner Ring E,,United Kingdom

I wandered around having a think. Pizza. I haven’t had pizza for a while. I went to Pizza Hut (hey – I know. But it’s been ages) but there was a queue and they had a strange ordering system going on so I walked out. Pizza! I remembered a pizza pasta place in the Spanish quarter. Was It Liverpool street? And why “quarter”? Why not Spanish town and China quarter? What’s a quarter anyway? A quarter of what?

Ok so this place is like a map from Deus Ex. Strange comparison but the people in the know will be nodding their head right now, saying “oh right! Cool.” around every corner is a new shopping centre, a new food court and a new architectural theme. It’s mind boggling. I’ve just found yet another shopping mall and food court near my flat. This one adorned with a huge purple dragon’s tale art sculpture type thing.

I was planning to try Liverpool street but Pitt street looks interesting. Korean grocers, more sushi bars and a kebab & pizza place. Pizza! Hmm.. Looks dodgy though.

I just saw the wierdo. Every area has one. 1 month matted beard growth, grubby checked shirt, flip flops (or thongs, as they call them here) a spider web tattoo on his foot and he’s staggering a little, muttering angrily to himself. Oh and he has a coke zero. Wtf? Is he watching his weight or something? Oops, I just made eye contact.

Hey check this out! Mother Chu’s Vegetarian Kitchen. Menu looks good. Omg, Everything really is vegetarian! A whole menu I can eat!

Now that’s a cool final meal.

On the way back I treated myself to a 2 scoop Gelatissimo. Macadamia nut and chocolate fondant. Plus the pleasant Japanese server gave me a free bit of mango sorbet, followed by a smile and a wink. He must have thought it was a done deal but decided not to take the relationship any further.

Location:George St, Sydney

Second time in two days. Takes 30 minutes and is very relaxing. A great way to see the harbor bridge and the opera house from the sea.

This was 2 days ago:

Location:George St,Manly,Australia

Nevermind. The Chocolate Room opposite is keeping me company. I walked down and grabbed a banana hot chocolate today. Been trying every flavour.

This is a cool franchise:

http://www.thechocolateroom.com.au/ourcafes.html

anyway, 1450 words and counting… 

I stopped at the Chocolate Room opposite after – chocolate syrup, steamed milk and crushed hazelnuts. It may be expensive living here, but it’s worth every cent.

Now back to the study…

- Kushal

Location:Kent St,Sydney,Australia