You can view all of my pics via the following links. Enjoy!!
Day 0 - Sydney
Day 1 - Travel to Byron Bay
Day 2 - Byron Bay
Day 3 - Gold Coast
Day 4 - Gold Coast
Day 5 & 6 - Fraser Island
Day 7 - Rockhamptons
Day 8 & 9 - Whitsundays Islands
Day 10 - Whitsundays to Airlie Beach
Day 11 & 12 - Cairns Part I
Day 13 - Great Barrier Reef (Above Water)
Day 13 - Great Barrier Reef (Under Water)
Day 13 - Cairns Part II: Aboriginal Dinner and Last Night Together
Day 14 - Last Day in Cairns
Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
Saying Goodbye
Well it's pretty obvious that I was pretty pessimistic to have to get on that plane to leave the country of my dreams after having the time of my life. The experiences I had and the friends that I made molded a nest of memories into an adventure that changed my life and left a mark on who I am. Needless to say, if I didn't have a job, I would still be in Australia. :)
It was so hard to say goodbye to my new friends...it was hard for all of us. But there was a strong sense of happiness that we all took with us, a peace from each of our experiences, and excitement for what's to come in each of our lives. Even though it was sad to leave, we all know it won't be the last we see of each other.
And as for Australia, its beauty has been imprinted in my mind and on my heart forever. Thank you, James Cook, for being a discoverer. :)
And again, another huge and most sincere THANK YOU to my incredible family and friends for making this trip possible for me. You helped make my dream come true, and for that I will always be thankful.
It was so hard to say goodbye to my new friends...it was hard for all of us. But there was a strong sense of happiness that we all took with us, a peace from each of our experiences, and excitement for what's to come in each of our lives. Even though it was sad to leave, we all know it won't be the last we see of each other.
And as for Australia, its beauty has been imprinted in my mind and on my heart forever. Thank you, James Cook, for being a discoverer. :)
And again, another huge and most sincere THANK YOU to my incredible family and friends for making this trip possible for me. You helped make my dream come true, and for that I will always be thankful.
Day 14 - Last Day in Cairns
The group as a whole has been dreading this day for nearly two weeks now...we don't want this to end, the adventure. And we don't want to say goodbye. But we will make the most of our last day together!
We had to bring Charlotte and Will to the airport first thing this morning because they have an early flight to Thailand (lucky ducks!!), and that was really sad to see them go. Group photo in front of Heidi (the bus) before they left...even taking the pic was fun!! :)
Then we headed up the mountain to Mareeba again to spend our last day there.
We went to the Wildlife sanctuary where I held a koala and fed kangaroos!!! SO AWESOME!!! I don't know why they wouldn't let me take Hogan (the koala) home though. ;(
Then we had lunch and walked up to the sky rail where we hopped on for the best view of the rainforest in Cairns!! It was brilliant!!! Hard to believe what we saw...again, cheers God! ;) Great way to end my trip to Australia though.
Now back to the airport to see off Vicky and Tim, two of the people I connected with the most. When it was my turn to hug Vicky, we both just started balling...not sure what I'm gonna do without her funnies. :)
Back to town now to get dropped off at the hostel where many of us are staying the night...flight tomorrow morning. Don't wanna leave this place.
We had to bring Charlotte and Will to the airport first thing this morning because they have an early flight to Thailand (lucky ducks!!), and that was really sad to see them go. Group photo in front of Heidi (the bus) before they left...even taking the pic was fun!! :)
Then we headed up the mountain to Mareeba again to spend our last day there.
We went to the Wildlife sanctuary where I held a koala and fed kangaroos!!! SO AWESOME!!! I don't know why they wouldn't let me take Hogan (the koala) home though. ;(
Then we had lunch and walked up to the sky rail where we hopped on for the best view of the rainforest in Cairns!! It was brilliant!!! Hard to believe what we saw...again, cheers God! ;) Great way to end my trip to Australia though.
Now back to the airport to see off Vicky and Tim, two of the people I connected with the most. When it was my turn to hug Vicky, we both just started balling...not sure what I'm gonna do without her funnies. :)
Back to town now to get dropped off at the hostel where many of us are staying the night...flight tomorrow morning. Don't wanna leave this place.
Day 13 - Great Barrier Reef
Here's the deal...other than freshwater sports, I'm not much of a water fan. I don't like not being able to see what's in the water, I'm terrified of sharks, and I get claustrophobic and freak out when I snorkel. So what's on the docket for Day 13? Scuba diving. Great. But what do you know about me? Yep, I hate missing out!!
So I was determined to at least try it. It is the Great Barrier Reef after all...it's one of those once in a lifetime kinda things.
2 meters down...panic attack and had to come up. But again, I was determined, so with some extra time and help from the instructors, I finally descended into the GBR. And let me just tell you, it was totally worth the panic attack. Words cannot describe (I know I say that a lot) the colors, the beauty. It was phenomenal.
And I even went snorkeling after! And of course when I started panicking because I got stuck in shallow water, I saw a shark right under me. My apologies to that coral and anemone that were offended by my flapping limbs as I tried desperately to escape. :)
After a nap on the boat deck (and a subsequent sunburn) and some Hangman with the girls (lol) we headed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner. As it was our official last night together :( we all went out for a night on the town...the pics will show that it was an excellent evening!
My goodness I'm going to miss my new friends terribly.
So I was determined to at least try it. It is the Great Barrier Reef after all...it's one of those once in a lifetime kinda things.
2 meters down...panic attack and had to come up. But again, I was determined, so with some extra time and help from the instructors, I finally descended into the GBR. And let me just tell you, it was totally worth the panic attack. Words cannot describe (I know I say that a lot) the colors, the beauty. It was phenomenal.
And I even went snorkeling after! And of course when I started panicking because I got stuck in shallow water, I saw a shark right under me. My apologies to that coral and anemone that were offended by my flapping limbs as I tried desperately to escape. :)
After a nap on the boat deck (and a subsequent sunburn) and some Hangman with the girls (lol) we headed back to the hotel to get ready for dinner. As it was our official last night together :( we all went out for a night on the town...the pics will show that it was an excellent evening!
My goodness I'm going to miss my new friends terribly.
Day 12 - Cairns Part I
When my alarm clock sounded at 3:00am, my first thought was "what am was I thinking signing up for this??!!!" but boy am I glad I did it. We headed on a bus up a mountain to the farmland of Mareeba. Funny thing about hot air balloon rides is that the pilot can control the height and movement of the basket, but where the balloon goes is up to the wind. So we didn't know where we were taking off from until we got to the waiting spot, where we literally waited for the pilot to tell us where the departure location would be.
Then we got there and watched them "blow up the balloons" as the sun rose. We were in the second group, so after the first took off, we went chasing!! Just as we had to wait for a take-off location based on the wind, we also had to wait on the wind to tell them where to land. Then we headed out there to meet the first group, and then to switch off.
Our turn...wow. I cant even put it into words how stinkin amazing it was!! It didn't even feel like we were in the air!! And the view was breathtaking to say the least. And a bonus...at one point there were herds of kangaroos jumping through the fields below us. Brilliant. Perfect morning!!
After the ride we actually got to help deflate the balloon and load it up! Then to a ranch for brekky (breakfast) and back to Cairns. First thing I did there - NAP!! :)
Went to the lagoon after lunch, laid out on the grass, and then did some shopping (shocker, I know!). Dinner with the gang to share our stories over good food and wine! Love this day!!! :)
Then we got there and watched them "blow up the balloons" as the sun rose. We were in the second group, so after the first took off, we went chasing!! Just as we had to wait for a take-off location based on the wind, we also had to wait on the wind to tell them where to land. Then we headed out there to meet the first group, and then to switch off.
Our turn...wow. I cant even put it into words how stinkin amazing it was!! It didn't even feel like we were in the air!! And the view was breathtaking to say the least. And a bonus...at one point there were herds of kangaroos jumping through the fields below us. Brilliant. Perfect morning!!
After the ride we actually got to help deflate the balloon and load it up! Then to a ranch for brekky (breakfast) and back to Cairns. First thing I did there - NAP!! :)
Went to the lagoon after lunch, laid out on the grass, and then did some shopping (shocker, I know!). Dinner with the gang to share our stories over good food and wine! Love this day!!! :)
Day 11 - Townsville to Cairns
So it's about a 10-hour drive from Airlie Beach to Cairns, a long day on the bus. But at least we all got plenty of showers after 2 days without on the boat! :)
We stopped in Townsville for lunch on the way to Cairns. This was a very pleasant surprise for the day because the town is gorgeous!! We all split up, got our own lunch and then met back for a picnic on the beach together...so cool. The weather was absolutely brilliant...it's getting warmer and warmer each day!
Brad's mum and dad met us here too so we got to meet them...so sweet!! (unlike brad) ;)
Back on the bus again...we started to watch Troy on the DVD player but the sound wasn't working. Instead of just turning it off, Aisha and Vicky decided to narrate it for us on the microphone...cannot remember the last time I laughed that hard!!
We finally got to Cairns just in time for din-din...take-in to eat in the room...it's gonna be the earliest day ever for me tomorrow - 4am hot air balloon ride!!
Loving this country...
We stopped in Townsville for lunch on the way to Cairns. This was a very pleasant surprise for the day because the town is gorgeous!! We all split up, got our own lunch and then met back for a picnic on the beach together...so cool. The weather was absolutely brilliant...it's getting warmer and warmer each day!
Brad's mum and dad met us here too so we got to meet them...so sweet!! (unlike brad) ;)
Back on the bus again...we started to watch Troy on the DVD player but the sound wasn't working. Instead of just turning it off, Aisha and Vicky decided to narrate it for us on the microphone...cannot remember the last time I laughed that hard!!
We finally got to Cairns just in time for din-din...take-in to eat in the room...it's gonna be the earliest day ever for me tomorrow - 4am hot air balloon ride!!
Loving this country...
Day 10 - Airlie Beach
No one wanted to get off of the boat in the Whitsundays!! But alas, we reached Airlie Beach where our 2-day cruise ended. The rest of this day was relaxing...shopping, beach with Katie, and dinner with the group before bed - early start tomorrow as we begin making our way to Cairns for the last leg of the tour. :(
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Sunday, August 1, 2010
New Friends
Ok, so I know I keep talking about how incredible the people are that are on this tour with me, so I feel like I should give a little description of each of them...really quick. :)
Lisa - probably the closest to her of everyone here. She is Welsh and super fun. Her brother is in Iran, and we really connected talking about that. She loves me, and I love her. :) We have had some very personal moments...and for all of my girlfriends, you know what that means. LOL Her and her friend Christine are here together, and we have all roomed together for most of the nights.
Vicky - one word...hilarious!! Absolutely the funniest person I have met. She is a business teacher, and has a great sense of humor with all of life. She is super laid-back and shameless, like me. :)
Aisha - she is also a brit and so spunky and full of life!! Her energy is contagious and intoxicating, and we really have a lot in common. And she has the best hair of all of us.
Katie - she shared my best day ever in Fraser Island...probably the sweetest girl on this trip...so laid back and so much fun to be with.
Niels - Dutch guy that I met up with in Sydney the day before the trip...he has turned out to be a daredevil! He went skydiving and is doing all the crazy stuff that everyone else is scared to do. lol such a cool guy!
David & Jessie (pronounced Yessi) - they are a couple, and are really into photography so we chat a lot about that. They are also from the Netherlands.
Zehra - she is so "common"...also a Brit, and a dentist...knows a TON of useless information and loves to share...she talks a ton too! lol
Will - he is your typical 18-year old British boy who loves to party lol...we make fun of him all the time, and he loves it! He came with his bff Charlotte, and is one of the few guys on the trip.
The Irish girls - Aine (pronounced Anya), Edel, Olivia, and Linda. Love these girls! All teachers that came together and make us laugh so much!
The English girls - Sarah, Katie, Steph, Charlotte, Laura, Caitlin, and Rebecca. Can we just say fun-lovers!! They are crazy silly, and love to socialize, so we obviously get right along!
Tim - guy from Australia (Adelade) that joined us in Gold Coast, along with a few others. He is the oldest guy here, and loves to make fun of himself for that. He is going through a divorce, so we have chatted about that a lot because we are the only two that have ever been married.
Steven & Sheona - couple that also joined us in Gold Coast. Sheona has to have a kidney transplant, and they are traveling together here before that. Please pray for her. She is so incredibly sweet.
The French guy - Sebastian who came alone and has been named the funniest guy on the bus! He started off so so shy, and has really come out of his shell! Loves to dance to American music lol.
The French girls - Charlotte and Claire came together and love to party! Thank God Sebastian is here because they don't speak English very well lol. But they have been teaching me some sayings and vice versa! I'm also Claire's math teacher lol.
Brad & Craig - our amazing tourguides who are way fun, and have had so many experiences doing what they do...they are wise beyond their years, and love to tell their stories, which is awesome for me! :) Brad and I had a major heart-to-heart last night about meditation and soul-searching...that's a completely different story, but suffice to say that I'm researching that now, and it will be my next vacation for sure. Craig is the "hot one" and the French girls are loving him lol...turns out, he is just a really cool, smart and down-to-earth guy that loves people.
I'm really loving connecting with everyone on a deep level...we always share our stories - good and bad - and have all helped out at least one person during our time. And you can feel the chemistry in our group. I'm so thankful for that...it makes all the difference in the world.
I wish you all could meet them! I'm working on it. ;)
Love to all...
Lisa - probably the closest to her of everyone here. She is Welsh and super fun. Her brother is in Iran, and we really connected talking about that. She loves me, and I love her. :) We have had some very personal moments...and for all of my girlfriends, you know what that means. LOL Her and her friend Christine are here together, and we have all roomed together for most of the nights.
Vicky - one word...hilarious!! Absolutely the funniest person I have met. She is a business teacher, and has a great sense of humor with all of life. She is super laid-back and shameless, like me. :)
Aisha - she is also a brit and so spunky and full of life!! Her energy is contagious and intoxicating, and we really have a lot in common. And she has the best hair of all of us.
Katie - she shared my best day ever in Fraser Island...probably the sweetest girl on this trip...so laid back and so much fun to be with.
Niels - Dutch guy that I met up with in Sydney the day before the trip...he has turned out to be a daredevil! He went skydiving and is doing all the crazy stuff that everyone else is scared to do. lol such a cool guy!
David & Jessie (pronounced Yessi) - they are a couple, and are really into photography so we chat a lot about that. They are also from the Netherlands.
Zehra - she is so "common"...also a Brit, and a dentist...knows a TON of useless information and loves to share...she talks a ton too! lol
Will - he is your typical 18-year old British boy who loves to party lol...we make fun of him all the time, and he loves it! He came with his bff Charlotte, and is one of the few guys on the trip.
The Irish girls - Aine (pronounced Anya), Edel, Olivia, and Linda. Love these girls! All teachers that came together and make us laugh so much!
The English girls - Sarah, Katie, Steph, Charlotte, Laura, Caitlin, and Rebecca. Can we just say fun-lovers!! They are crazy silly, and love to socialize, so we obviously get right along!
Tim - guy from Australia (Adelade) that joined us in Gold Coast, along with a few others. He is the oldest guy here, and loves to make fun of himself for that. He is going through a divorce, so we have chatted about that a lot because we are the only two that have ever been married.
Steven & Sheona - couple that also joined us in Gold Coast. Sheona has to have a kidney transplant, and they are traveling together here before that. Please pray for her. She is so incredibly sweet.
The French guy - Sebastian who came alone and has been named the funniest guy on the bus! He started off so so shy, and has really come out of his shell! Loves to dance to American music lol.
The French girls - Charlotte and Claire came together and love to party! Thank God Sebastian is here because they don't speak English very well lol. But they have been teaching me some sayings and vice versa! I'm also Claire's math teacher lol.
Brad & Craig - our amazing tourguides who are way fun, and have had so many experiences doing what they do...they are wise beyond their years, and love to tell their stories, which is awesome for me! :) Brad and I had a major heart-to-heart last night about meditation and soul-searching...that's a completely different story, but suffice to say that I'm researching that now, and it will be my next vacation for sure. Craig is the "hot one" and the French girls are loving him lol...turns out, he is just a really cool, smart and down-to-earth guy that loves people.
I'm really loving connecting with everyone on a deep level...we always share our stories - good and bad - and have all helped out at least one person during our time. And you can feel the chemistry in our group. I'm so thankful for that...it makes all the difference in the world.
I wish you all could meet them! I'm working on it. ;)
Love to all...
QUESTIONS FOR YOU!
So I pretty much have no sense of day or time, and although I am LOVING that, I don't want to miss out on the important stuff going on back home...so help please:
1 - what's the latest with the oil spill?
2 - Destiny, what's up with your mum?
3 - Me-maw, what happened with Aunt Sal?
4 - What else did I miss??
:)
Love
Sara
1 - what's the latest with the oil spill?
2 - Destiny, what's up with your mum?
3 - Me-maw, what happened with Aunt Sal?
4 - What else did I miss??
:)
Love
Sara
Day 8 & 9 - Whitsundays
Wow...seriously...where do I even begin? This trip is changing my life...in an awesome way. I mean it with all of my heart when I say that I'm having the time of my life.
We boarded the 83-ft Whitbread Around the World Race Yacht, the British Defender, for Days 8 and 9 (and a little of 10) of our fabulous adventure. I wish I could describe to you just how brilliant the last 2 days of my life have been, but I know that no words will ever do it justice. I have tons of pictures too, but I know that can't even capture it.
We headed out to sea out of Airlie Beach on Saturday afternoon, and headed to the Whitsunday Islands which is made up of 74 islands and nothing but beauty. We stopped at Hook Island on the way and snorkeled near the shore. Now, I'm not really a fan of snorkeling...had a slight panic attack lol...but I'm good and it was worth it. Didn't stay in long, but enough to see the coral and some pretty colorful fish!
The sun was perfect, the breeze was perfect, the smell of the ocean was perfect. Before we knew it, it was night and time for bed...not so perfect. ;) 37 people in an 80' yacht may not seem so bad, but those were some small beds! Not complaining for sure...you know me, I can sleep anywhere and through anything!
Yesterday (Day 9) was even better...we sailed out to Whitsunday Island (the main island) and went to Whitehaven Beach. If you have a few minutes, definitely Google it. It is literally the #1 best beach in the world. The water is literally crystal clear and bluer than anything you have ever seen. And the beach is silica sand, which is the finest sand in the world...it's like sugar, and it literally squeaks when you walk on it. And the water is the most purifying ocean in the world. It's hard to imagine, so you can imagine how beside myself I was. I wish I could transport my thoughts and what my eyes saw onto paper somehow. I wrote about it last night...the best way I have been able to describe it is that when I look at this place, I just see God...in all of his imagination and creativity and beauty, all at work. It's life-changing. Really.
It was the most peaceful place I have ever been to...I didn't want to leave. But alas, we had to. :( Another wonderful night with my new friends, and then we headed back to Airlie Beach this morning. We sailed back...like, really sailed! The boat was almost completely on its side and it was a little scary but so awesome!! I have pics and it's crazy! We are all tired, dirty (no showers for 2 days!), and overwhelmed with what we just experienced...this is the best time of our lives, and we all feel it.
I cannot be more thankful in my life right now.
We boarded the 83-ft Whitbread Around the World Race Yacht, the British Defender, for Days 8 and 9 (and a little of 10) of our fabulous adventure. I wish I could describe to you just how brilliant the last 2 days of my life have been, but I know that no words will ever do it justice. I have tons of pictures too, but I know that can't even capture it.
We headed out to sea out of Airlie Beach on Saturday afternoon, and headed to the Whitsunday Islands which is made up of 74 islands and nothing but beauty. We stopped at Hook Island on the way and snorkeled near the shore. Now, I'm not really a fan of snorkeling...had a slight panic attack lol...but I'm good and it was worth it. Didn't stay in long, but enough to see the coral and some pretty colorful fish!
The sun was perfect, the breeze was perfect, the smell of the ocean was perfect. Before we knew it, it was night and time for bed...not so perfect. ;) 37 people in an 80' yacht may not seem so bad, but those were some small beds! Not complaining for sure...you know me, I can sleep anywhere and through anything!
Yesterday (Day 9) was even better...we sailed out to Whitsunday Island (the main island) and went to Whitehaven Beach. If you have a few minutes, definitely Google it. It is literally the #1 best beach in the world. The water is literally crystal clear and bluer than anything you have ever seen. And the beach is silica sand, which is the finest sand in the world...it's like sugar, and it literally squeaks when you walk on it. And the water is the most purifying ocean in the world. It's hard to imagine, so you can imagine how beside myself I was. I wish I could transport my thoughts and what my eyes saw onto paper somehow. I wrote about it last night...the best way I have been able to describe it is that when I look at this place, I just see God...in all of his imagination and creativity and beauty, all at work. It's life-changing. Really.
It was the most peaceful place I have ever been to...I didn't want to leave. But alas, we had to. :( Another wonderful night with my new friends, and then we headed back to Airlie Beach this morning. We sailed back...like, really sailed! The boat was almost completely on its side and it was a little scary but so awesome!! I have pics and it's crazy! We are all tired, dirty (no showers for 2 days!), and overwhelmed with what we just experienced...this is the best time of our lives, and we all feel it.
I cannot be more thankful in my life right now.
Day 7 - Rockhampton
Ok gotta catch up on my blog!
So after we left Fraser Island, we spent the afternoon-evening in Rockhampton, and went to a rodeo there! I know it seems super "American", but rodeos are a HUGE part of life in this area of Australia...it's the cow capital of the world! And it's funny because we were talking to some of the riders after and they were saying that most of them try to get to America to do rodeos there too. Pretty cool.
So, this will likely not come as a shock to any of you who know me, but possibly my favorite part of the night in Rockhamptons was playing with these 2 little boys that were not only at the rodeo, but also participating in it! Storm and Cooper, both 4, were the cutest little things ever! And they loved me! I asked Storm how old he is and he said "4, you?" and I said "how old do you think I am?" and he says "nearly 30?" LOL!!!! And I just giggled with him and then he hugged me and said "I like you!"...cutest thing ever. Then it was Cooper's turn to ride his bull, so I watched him and took pictures, and after he finished, he came around to find me and was the proudest little peacock in the world! So proud of him! :)
Anyhow, we all went back to the hotel after and hung out in the lounge, listened to the live music, and just relaxed together. I'm so loving this trip, and am creating some amazing relationships...more on that in another post though. It's brilliant that there are so many amazing people here.
So after we left Fraser Island, we spent the afternoon-evening in Rockhampton, and went to a rodeo there! I know it seems super "American", but rodeos are a HUGE part of life in this area of Australia...it's the cow capital of the world! And it's funny because we were talking to some of the riders after and they were saying that most of them try to get to America to do rodeos there too. Pretty cool.
So, this will likely not come as a shock to any of you who know me, but possibly my favorite part of the night in Rockhamptons was playing with these 2 little boys that were not only at the rodeo, but also participating in it! Storm and Cooper, both 4, were the cutest little things ever! And they loved me! I asked Storm how old he is and he said "4, you?" and I said "how old do you think I am?" and he says "nearly 30?" LOL!!!! And I just giggled with him and then he hugged me and said "I like you!"...cutest thing ever. Then it was Cooper's turn to ride his bull, so I watched him and took pictures, and after he finished, he came around to find me and was the proudest little peacock in the world! So proud of him! :)
Anyhow, we all went back to the hotel after and hung out in the lounge, listened to the live music, and just relaxed together. I'm so loving this trip, and am creating some amazing relationships...more on that in another post though. It's brilliant that there are so many amazing people here.
Saturday, July 31, 2010
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Day 6 - Fraser Island Part II
Best. Day. Ever.
There were about 10 of us that didn't go on the 4WD tour of the Island, and just stayed back to hang out and explore on our own. So we all slept in (yay!) and then gathered in lodge 3, played poker for a while, drank goon (box wine, lol), and listened to music. Then the sun came out, so me and Katie decided to head to the pool. It was quite the resort! Another lizard sighting too! Then Katie wandered off to look around while I soaked up the rays. When she came back, she exclaimed that she had found "a place that will take all your worries away"...lol I love her! It was a brilliant beach...serene beyond what words can describe. It's peace was contagious, and beauty breathtaking. No picture came close to capturing it (although I tried!). We spent hours walking the shores, picking up seashells, watching the fish, laughing...it was exactly what we had been looking for and don't think it could have been better.
Then we went up to the Jetty bar (they call docks "jetty") for a drink and relaxation...there we met Levi and Ben, who worked there and were about to host a small fishing clinic! PERFECT!! So we learned to catch yabbi (small prawn-like bait) by digging up the sands with this tubelike plunger. So cool! The we used the yabbi to go fishing on the jetty! Did I mention the weather was absolutely gorgeous??!! And the fish were biting...I caught a big "trevaly" and a small "happy moment" and Katie caught a Moses Perch! It was SO MUCH fun!
Then we went to this lookout point up the mountain for a fantastic view of the island and Hervey Bay (where we caught the ferry to the island). Afterwards we headed back to the jetty to meet up with the rest of the group to watch the sunset before dinner. I cannot begin to even try to describe that sunset. All I can say is that God had quite the canvas and colors that night.
Dinner, birthday cake for Caitlyn, hot tub with the girls, reading my book, and early bedtime.
Best. Day. Ever. :)
There were about 10 of us that didn't go on the 4WD tour of the Island, and just stayed back to hang out and explore on our own. So we all slept in (yay!) and then gathered in lodge 3, played poker for a while, drank goon (box wine, lol), and listened to music. Then the sun came out, so me and Katie decided to head to the pool. It was quite the resort! Another lizard sighting too! Then Katie wandered off to look around while I soaked up the rays. When she came back, she exclaimed that she had found "a place that will take all your worries away"...lol I love her! It was a brilliant beach...serene beyond what words can describe. It's peace was contagious, and beauty breathtaking. No picture came close to capturing it (although I tried!). We spent hours walking the shores, picking up seashells, watching the fish, laughing...it was exactly what we had been looking for and don't think it could have been better.
Then we went up to the Jetty bar (they call docks "jetty") for a drink and relaxation...there we met Levi and Ben, who worked there and were about to host a small fishing clinic! PERFECT!! So we learned to catch yabbi (small prawn-like bait) by digging up the sands with this tubelike plunger. So cool! The we used the yabbi to go fishing on the jetty! Did I mention the weather was absolutely gorgeous??!! And the fish were biting...I caught a big "trevaly" and a small "happy moment" and Katie caught a Moses Perch! It was SO MUCH fun!
Then we went to this lookout point up the mountain for a fantastic view of the island and Hervey Bay (where we caught the ferry to the island). Afterwards we headed back to the jetty to meet up with the rest of the group to watch the sunset before dinner. I cannot begin to even try to describe that sunset. All I can say is that God had quite the canvas and colors that night.
Dinner, birthday cake for Caitlyn, hot tub with the girls, reading my book, and early bedtime.
Best. Day. Ever. :)
Day 5 - Fraser Island Part I
We spent some time in Brisbane on our way to Fraser Island...did some shopping and more time getting to know each other. We passed through a town called Maryborough which is the home of the author of Mary Poppins. Pretty cool. :)
Another interesting fact...90% of Australians live within 10 km of the coastline...and after two days in Fraser Island, I know why. But I digress...
We boarded a ferry to get to the Island...a very beautiful 40 minute boat ride. Then we checked into our lodges - we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge there, and it literally was exactly that. Very, very peaceful, but a little scary because of the creatures...deadly spiders, snakes, dingos, etc. And then there are these huge dragon lizard things. They are really cool!! Not afraid of just walking right by ya! Have tons of pics of those. :)
In the evening, we stayed down at the Dingo Bar where dinner was and chatted all together. I had a long and really great conversation with Vicky (my hilarious Brit friend), Craig (the tour guide), and Tim (one of the new people that joined our group in the Gold Coast). We talked about why we are all here, our life experiences, and trials and hard times. It's pretty crazy how many things we all have in common even from being from other sides of the world.
When they teach you to surf, one of the things the instructor shows you is how to make it out in the ocean to where you catch the waves. You have to hold the board a certain way so that it's easy to carry out and so that it doesn't get swept away by the waves when they come at you as you get farther out. Then you learn how to move and handle your body so that you don't get knocked down either when the waves come. When you are heading against an approaching wave, you are taught to dig your feet down and position your body to where you hold your ground, and then literally thrust yourself into or against the wave as opposed to just standing there and letting it overtake you. You face the wave and push against it, and you don't get knocked down. Much like heartbreak and hard times, isn't it? If you go into them knowing you can overcome it, you will be a forced to be reckoned with and nothing can overtake you.
See, I knew Australia had lots in store for me...
Another interesting fact...90% of Australians live within 10 km of the coastline...and after two days in Fraser Island, I know why. But I digress...
We boarded a ferry to get to the Island...a very beautiful 40 minute boat ride. Then we checked into our lodges - we stayed at the Wilderness Lodge there, and it literally was exactly that. Very, very peaceful, but a little scary because of the creatures...deadly spiders, snakes, dingos, etc. And then there are these huge dragon lizard things. They are really cool!! Not afraid of just walking right by ya! Have tons of pics of those. :)
In the evening, we stayed down at the Dingo Bar where dinner was and chatted all together. I had a long and really great conversation with Vicky (my hilarious Brit friend), Craig (the tour guide), and Tim (one of the new people that joined our group in the Gold Coast). We talked about why we are all here, our life experiences, and trials and hard times. It's pretty crazy how many things we all have in common even from being from other sides of the world.
When they teach you to surf, one of the things the instructor shows you is how to make it out in the ocean to where you catch the waves. You have to hold the board a certain way so that it's easy to carry out and so that it doesn't get swept away by the waves when they come at you as you get farther out. Then you learn how to move and handle your body so that you don't get knocked down either when the waves come. When you are heading against an approaching wave, you are taught to dig your feet down and position your body to where you hold your ground, and then literally thrust yourself into or against the wave as opposed to just standing there and letting it overtake you. You face the wave and push against it, and you don't get knocked down. Much like heartbreak and hard times, isn't it? If you go into them knowing you can overcome it, you will be a forced to be reckoned with and nothing can overtake you.
See, I knew Australia had lots in store for me...
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Day 4 - Gold Coast, Part II
Very relaxing day...did some reading on the balcony, laid by the pool, and enjoyed some retail therapy. :) It was Laura's birthday so we had a big celebration night...bowling, karaoke, and girls night at a local pub. Fun night, but a little too much to drink. :) Heading to Brisbane and then Fraser Island for Day 5 & 6.
It's still so surreal that I'm here, halfway around the globe. We forget sometimes how big this world is, how many places we may never get to see, all the people and their stories we may never hear. So I count myself pretty lucky to have the way to be here, surrounded by some incredible people, with incredible stories. And even more lucky that they are all so funny!! :)
It's still so surreal that I'm here, halfway around the globe. We forget sometimes how big this world is, how many places we may never get to see, all the people and their stories we may never hear. So I count myself pretty lucky to have the way to be here, surrounded by some incredible people, with incredible stories. And even more lucky that they are all so funny!! :)
Monday, July 26, 2010
Day 3 - Gold Coast
So I officially have a messed up foot, but I'm not letting it stop me...well not completely. Laura and Caitlyn just graduated from "uni" (college") in physical therapy, so they had a look and apparently I bruised my muscle. When I fell off the surfboard, my foot took the fall but it was twisted when I landed, so now it's quite swollen and really painful! We are going to stop to get crutches though so I can keep up...I hate missing out! :(
We left Byron Bay this morning, but stopped at the lighthouse on the way out. It's the easternmost point of Byron Bay, and Australia. Absolutely stunning view. Stunning.
A walk through the one of oldest rainforest is next...it's also the rainforest where they filmed "I'm a celebrity! Get me outta here!"...remember that dumb show?? Anyway they told me I would probably have to skip it because it's a long walk up and down hills and stairs. Have I mentioned that I hate missing out?? So typical for me to get hurt, and on the second day, right? Ugh. But I knew I would regret it if I didn't at least try. So I did. Took me forever to get to the waterfall, but with some help and many breaks, I made it. It was fantastic. Cant wait to share pics!!
We got to the Gold Coast in the early afternoon. Craig (the tour guide) compares the Gold Coast to Miami...maybe not quite but definitely similar. There is a high-rise apartment complex called Q1 that is here on the beach and it's the tallest building in the southern hemisphere. Pretty sweet.
Did a little shopping here and got some crutches so I'm officially "hop-along-Sally" now. Dinner tonight then rest! Beach day tomorrow!!!
We left Byron Bay this morning, but stopped at the lighthouse on the way out. It's the easternmost point of Byron Bay, and Australia. Absolutely stunning view. Stunning.
A walk through the one of oldest rainforest is next...it's also the rainforest where they filmed "I'm a celebrity! Get me outta here!"...remember that dumb show?? Anyway they told me I would probably have to skip it because it's a long walk up and down hills and stairs. Have I mentioned that I hate missing out?? So typical for me to get hurt, and on the second day, right? Ugh. But I knew I would regret it if I didn't at least try. So I did. Took me forever to get to the waterfall, but with some help and many breaks, I made it. It was fantastic. Cant wait to share pics!!
We got to the Gold Coast in the early afternoon. Craig (the tour guide) compares the Gold Coast to Miami...maybe not quite but definitely similar. There is a high-rise apartment complex called Q1 that is here on the beach and it's the tallest building in the southern hemisphere. Pretty sweet.
Did a little shopping here and got some crutches so I'm officially "hop-along-Sally" now. Dinner tonight then rest! Beach day tomorrow!!!
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Day 2 of 14 - Byron Bay
So I obviously found free wifi, so I'm going to catch up. :) Today was our 2nd and last day in BB...and it was a blast! It's pretty cold here, but warms up during the day so it's not too bad. I actually am really enjoying the weather. I hung out with Charlotte and Linda, the two girls from France today. They don't speak English very well, so they asked me to be their "teacher". :) Quite fun! They are way funny. :)
So I went surfing this afternoon! Well, let me re-phrase...I tried to learn how to surf this afternoon. :) After a 3 hour lesson, lots of water-time, a foot injury, and many wipe-outs, I finally surfed...once. :) That was my goal, so I'm a happy camper. Might try again in the Gold Coast.
Learning fun new phrases/common lingo..."quite" = "really", "cheers" = "thank you", "you's" = "you", "meant to" = "supposed to". And it's funny because most everyone in the world uses these phrases except for Americans! Love learning new stuff!
BBQ tonight and then our last night on the town here...we leave bright and early in morning and head for the Gold Coast! I'm exhausted, but soaking up every minute!
Love to all!!
Sara
So I went surfing this afternoon! Well, let me re-phrase...I tried to learn how to surf this afternoon. :) After a 3 hour lesson, lots of water-time, a foot injury, and many wipe-outs, I finally surfed...once. :) That was my goal, so I'm a happy camper. Might try again in the Gold Coast.
Learning fun new phrases/common lingo..."quite" = "really", "cheers" = "thank you", "you's" = "you", "meant to" = "supposed to". And it's funny because most everyone in the world uses these phrases except for Americans! Love learning new stuff!
BBQ tonight and then our last night on the town here...we leave bright and early in morning and head for the Gold Coast! I'm exhausted, but soaking up every minute!
Love to all!!
Sara
Day 1 of 14 - Byron Bay
WOW, I feel like the luckiest person in the world to be here! Day 1, we left at 6:30am (good practice for me) and headed to Byron Bay, where we will spend almost 2 days. BB is a very small town (population 6,000), but a very big tourist hot-spot because the beaches are brilliant here! We spent most of the day traveling as BB is nearly 11 hours north of Sydney on the east coast. BB is also the eastern-most point of Australia, so I'm looking forward to the sunrise tomorrow. :)
We passed the time well on the bus ride...intros and "about me's", and even "speed dating" to get to know everyone. Quite fun! I have met some incredible people here! Of course, there is Niels from the Netherlands, and Yessi and David are from the Netherlands too. Vicky is my favorite - hilarious Brit, she is!! Aysha is a from Liverpool and is a ball full of energy! Lisa is another fav of mine...we have a lot in common and have really connected talking about family and the war in Iraq as her brother is overseas fighting for our country. And then there are the teachers...I think 8 of us altogether, so we sit around and talk about that, too. :) Then I met Corrine from Boston, who is ironically coming to Cambridge in September with her dad, so I think she is going to come to Annapolis...again, such a small world!
We stopped for lunch at Fredi's Pies and guess what...I ATE KANGAROO!! I know, I know, I swore I wouldn't, but there was so much pressure and talk about how great it is and also healthy. So I did. And I can't wait to eat it again!! :)
We got to BB around 6pm, and checked into our villas...so cute and nice, and behind the "strip" in town, so it's an easy walk to everything. We ate at a great local spot in BB when we got here, and listened to some live music all night. And then most of us went to bed pretty early because we are all still jet lagged! And there is a big day ahead!
I'm so excited to continue this adventure...there are going to be 33 of us by the end of the tour (we pick up people along the way)...the largest Topdeck tour ever! And the best part is that we all vibe really well together...even the tour guides said our group has a great, unique chemistry. Making memories...
We passed the time well on the bus ride...intros and "about me's", and even "speed dating" to get to know everyone. Quite fun! I have met some incredible people here! Of course, there is Niels from the Netherlands, and Yessi and David are from the Netherlands too. Vicky is my favorite - hilarious Brit, she is!! Aysha is a from Liverpool and is a ball full of energy! Lisa is another fav of mine...we have a lot in common and have really connected talking about family and the war in Iraq as her brother is overseas fighting for our country. And then there are the teachers...I think 8 of us altogether, so we sit around and talk about that, too. :) Then I met Corrine from Boston, who is ironically coming to Cambridge in September with her dad, so I think she is going to come to Annapolis...again, such a small world!
We stopped for lunch at Fredi's Pies and guess what...I ATE KANGAROO!! I know, I know, I swore I wouldn't, but there was so much pressure and talk about how great it is and also healthy. So I did. And I can't wait to eat it again!! :)
We got to BB around 6pm, and checked into our villas...so cute and nice, and behind the "strip" in town, so it's an easy walk to everything. We ate at a great local spot in BB when we got here, and listened to some live music all night. And then most of us went to bed pretty early because we are all still jet lagged! And there is a big day ahead!
I'm so excited to continue this adventure...there are going to be 33 of us by the end of the tour (we pick up people along the way)...the largest Topdeck tour ever! And the best part is that we all vibe really well together...even the tour guides said our group has a great, unique chemistry. Making memories...
Friday, July 23, 2010
First day in Sydney
It's already hard to believe that I'm in Australia, and after just one day here I have had such a brilliant (new word) time that I can't believe I still have 14 more to go! Unable to imagine the amazing experiences to come!
The pic below is my new friend Niels! He is from the Netherlands and is doing the same tour I am. We had a great time in Darling Harbour today...aquarium, wildlife center, ferry tour, and free wifi at McDonald's!! :) He rocks and is going to teach me cool Dutch phrases. The thing with the wifi is that it's the only way I can connect to Internet to post these without having to pay ridiculous roaming charges (thx AT&T). So where there is no free wifi, I will have to wait to blog. Oh and I can't seem to upload a pic and words at the same time, so the pics will come in separate blogs. :)
The pic below is my new friend Niels! He is from the Netherlands and is doing the same tour I am. We had a great time in Darling Harbour today...aquarium, wildlife center, ferry tour, and free wifi at McDonald's!! :) He rocks and is going to teach me cool Dutch phrases. The thing with the wifi is that it's the only way I can connect to Internet to post these without having to pay ridiculous roaming charges (thx AT&T). So where there is no free wifi, I will have to wait to blog. Oh and I can't seem to upload a pic and words at the same time, so the pics will come in separate blogs. :)
So yesterday (Friday, the day before the official tour began) we walked to Darling Harbour and went to the Aquarium and the Wildlife Center. Now I know what you're thinking..."you go to the other side of the world and paid to go to something you can do in the states??". Yes, I did. And let me tell you it was worth every penny. The creatures and animals and marine life are so different here, so intricate and captivating. We spent hours in these havens, just soaking up the wonder and the peaceful nature.
Then we took a ferry through the different harbours, got up close to the Bridge and Opera House. We walked up to and around the Opera House and by the Botanical Gardens before we took the train home. Joey had a blast, too. ;)
One word for today..."Wunderbar!!" Essentially translates to "That's awesome!!" New fav word. In bed by 8pm local time...jet lag sucks. Had to be up by 5am, but slept like a rock!!
Things I learned about Australia during my first day:
1. Australia has not been subject to the world of fashion.
2. No one jaywalks and everyone reads the paper on the metro.
3. They drive on the other side of the road, and they walk the same.
4. Always be on the lookout for free wifi!
5. Their "pigeons" are on steroids and have no fear of getting on top of tables and eating your food right off your plate. And their feet and beaks are more orange than the sunset.
A few shout-outs :)
Em Hay - did you see the pic I posted to your Facebook wall?!!??!
Charlie/Crystal - THANKS for the converter and the Westpac tip!! Both are lifesavers!
BFF Chels - saw the biggest turtle EVER today. Thought of you of course. :) And you're gonna love the pics of Joey.
Ryan - saw a sign today for a restaurant..."chicken YEEROS"!! lol
Trina - took a pic at the harbour today that made me think of you...hint, it was pink and had a lemon garnish. ;)
Janae - stayed tuned for pics...hot Aussies galore. ;)
Love to all!!
Sara
Thursday, July 22, 2010
I made it!!
After 22 very tiring hours in the air, a close-call flight delay in San Fran, and 2 rounds of Tylenol pm, (oh and a $40 cab ride to the hostel where I'm staying tonight - pic attached) I made it to Australia. As we were making our final descent to the Sydney airport, the captain asked if we would lift our shades for landing. I do so just in time to catch a glimpse of the sunrise. But it wasn't just any sunrise; it was a Sydney sunrise, in all of it's captivating beauty. I only wish I had a camera to capture the colors, but I know even a photo would not do this justice...not even close. I never knew a sunrise could hold all of the colors of the rainbow...no, really...ALL of them. Breathtaking is the only word I can muster.
I have a feeling there are many things I never imagined that Australia is going to bring to the surface for me. I'm at the door, knocking.
I have a feeling there are many things I never imagined that Australia is going to bring to the surface for me. I'm at the door, knocking.
Monday, July 5, 2010
welcome to the australia blog!
Dearest friends and family!
First, a big huge THANK YOU for making this trip to Australia possible!! I would not be here without you!!
So I created this blog so that I can update you all during my time down under. I will be able to add images and quick stories here via email so you all can keep tabs on me. :) I will be touring the east coast of Australia from July 21 to August 7 via Topdeck Travel Tours. The main spots we will hit are Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Fraser Island, Whitsundays Island, and Cairns...lots to do and see!!
Also, Australia time is 14 hours ahead of Maryland time (13 hours ahead of Louisiana time) which can be quite confusing to calculate. So if you ever wanna know what time it is there, you can go to Time Dial and it will calculate it for you!
I can't say thanks enough...I'm looking forward to this adventure kick-starting a new chapter of life for me.
Much love,
Sara
First, a big huge THANK YOU for making this trip to Australia possible!! I would not be here without you!!
So I created this blog so that I can update you all during my time down under. I will be able to add images and quick stories here via email so you all can keep tabs on me. :) I will be touring the east coast of Australia from July 21 to August 7 via Topdeck Travel Tours. The main spots we will hit are Sydney, Byron Bay, Brisbane, Gold Coast, Fraser Island, Whitsundays Island, and Cairns...lots to do and see!!
Also, Australia time is 14 hours ahead of Maryland time (13 hours ahead of Louisiana time) which can be quite confusing to calculate. So if you ever wanna know what time it is there, you can go to Time Dial and it will calculate it for you!
I can't say thanks enough...I'm looking forward to this adventure kick-starting a new chapter of life for me.
Much love,
Sara
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