After spending almost a year and half in World class Sydney, I am now moving to country town Ballarat (near Melbourne) for my next assignment. I was bit more scared than excited to go up there, Not because I do not like change, I do but few reasons of being bit anxious were

• Most of my India Global Delivery friends have left and I am the only GD landed resource who gonna be there.
• I personally prefer Sydney kinda city feel, I do like country town but if you do not own car then transport is a big problem.
• Have lots of luggage to move, almost 200 Kg with 5 Large trolley bags and 6 medium size packing boxes.
• Finding accommodation in Ballarat seems bit difficult as hardly any single bedroom houses available and those also unfurnished.

anyways these were just some of my concern, but as It has been decided that I have to move up there, So I was readyyy. Got the Qantas flight to MEL and then airport shuttle to Ballarat . The story begins here…
Ended up almost drenched as I got down at ballarat railway station, heavy rain with strong winds, then carried all my luggage to 2nd floor in hotel, as there were no lifts.. then it took me almost an hour to find switch of electric stove for cooking.. N this morning missed my bus to office and took a taxi.. some how I reached to university campus.. Then I found, there were three IBM offices in university campus and people were unsure about from where I shall be working. Got directions but lost on the way in university and then Tom rescued me, He is the smartest guy on IBM planet. when he asked “how are you Ashesh??” I literally felt “Not so bad”. Ordered a hot coffee (which was delivered almost cold).. and then realized that I have forgot my power cable..   but I should say that people are really nice and welcoming here. Weather is also quite nice and cold like Delhi winters(except rains). Overall It was bit of mixed experience.. Hoping to find a nice/cozy accommodation soon . fingers crossed.