My first American Maccas

Succombed to a Maccas meal late last night. The 24 hour Harlem Maccas only serves through a window after 6pm - no human contact just through a speaker. Not the slick Australian operations of many young people working behind the scenes. A lone employee did everything - served, cooked (if that's what you call it). Raffaela thought it was a moment she will remember - eating Maccas with her mother - a rare event. Back to soul food tonight I hope.
I keep saying that people are so friendly - as we were nearingor apartment, somebody actually said "Enjoy your meal ladies" (noticing that we had Maccas bags). Calling it a meal is stretching it but it is the thought that counts.


We are becoming a regular site in our neighbourhood - the two white girls coming home late each night! Raffaela, of course gets lots of stares and a woman the other day was staring at her and finally said "I love your hair". I suppose black women spend a lot of money to get  long, straight dark hair like hers.

We're here

cattle class - I hate it. I think I have finally found what will motivate Raffaela to work hard and earn money - the desire to travel first class. 


Zooming into New York on a cold and crisp night was a sensation. Raffaela had the window down and was breathing in the city. 


We are staying in Harlem and it does look a bit dark and dingy at first but the couple of dudes who offered to help us were pretty cool.


My airbnb host is a delight and I can't imagine travelling any other way now. To arrive after a 22 hour flight to a clean, welcoming apartment is a travellers dream.


Looking forward to sleep and hitting the streets tomorrow.