Buenos Dias,

The ticket is booked (though not paid for), some Spanish has been learnt (though not nearly enough) and I do have a comprehensive list of jabs I need (will try to avoid jungles and dogs in equal measure).

I stopped to reflect on the trip, originally designed to be around South America and now taking in Australia and New Zealand (because they are there) and I can honestly say that I felt like I was stepping off the edge. I felt a pang for everything I was leaving behind.

However, the transport system, or what passes for it in this city has certainly eroded some of the affection I have for it. I won't miss stuffing myself into a train carriage, capacity 100, actual occupants 117. Or having my suits stick to me in the ensuing humidity. (I work in an office and suits are professional, you know. There's nothing professional about trying to pull my sweaty trouser lining from my crack only to find it semi -glued there.)

I s'pose I'm not much of a lid licker tonite.