In January i'm going "Glamping" with my wife down near Jervis Bay and will be taking my new scope. Hopefully get some clear nights and dark skies!
But yes, definitely understand the importance of dark skies! I was on a rooftop in Peakhurst over the weekend so thought id have a quick look for the Andromeda galaxy. Zero chance of seeing andromeda or any of the surrounding stars that low in the horizon with all that orange sky glow.
Even getting my camera out with 200mm lens and a high ISO etc I could only just, and I mean just, see its extremely faint core.
Anyway, thanks for all the feedback. Look forward to reporting back. I guess getting a telescope for Christmas will mean a cloudy Christmas night :S. fingers crossed for clear skies!
Greg