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After brief detours in Samoa, Hawaii and Los Angeles, we’re finally here in DC.
Flying on the Airforce Boeing was certainly an experience – amazing food and so much room, the VHS based entertainment system was an interesting touch though.
Keen as ever, we hadn’t been in DC for two hours and a strong group from the younger contingent were already out searching for the best the local nightlife could offer. Jet lag began to take hold as the night went on causing our group to quickly dwindle as the lure of sleep became all to tempting.
Sunday brought a chance for exploring Washington before work officially took hold. Most chose to explore the sights – I indulged in a little retail therapy and visited the Smithsonian institute on the Mall. Sadly only a few hours were available for this and I stuck to the American History Museum which is fantastic.
The Partnership Forum officially opens tonight with a gala dinner at the Institute of Peace, which by all accounts is a magnificent venue. We should be in for a fantastic evening and it will be the first chance to become acquainted with our American counterparts.
Apparently there’s nothing fashionable about tardiness, so I had better hurry up and get going.
Make sure to keep an eye on newzealandinc.com for all the latest from the Pacific Partnership Forum.