I decided to book into a hotel on the Orchard Road for my last two nights so that I could treat myself to a bit of well needed pampering. I got my hair done as it was so out of condition and bleached blond from the sun it looked a mess. I also had a manicure and pedicure and then spent the rest of my first day window shopping. Well ok I was looking for clothes but couldn't really find anything that I loved, plus I already had far too much stuff to try and cram into my rucksack.
Whilst I knew Singapore was renowned for its shopping I still couldn't quite get over just how many malls there were on one road. It really was quite incredible with every type of shop imaginable. All the food stalls were amazing too and I ate far too much, sampling the different types on offer.
My second day in Singapore I took the city sightseeing bus to the Indian, Chinese and Muslim quarters. Wandered along the river and of course went and checked out Raffles. The bar wasn't open unfortunately so I couldn't try a Singapore Sling, but I did treat myself to a necklace from Tiffany's instead.
I then headed out to the Botanical Gardens and wandered around the Orchid Garden which was truly stunning, before lying in the sun and reading my book. This would have been bliss had I not got bitten from head to toe and am now trying hard not to scratch.
I arrived home yesterday so am sat at home typing this, determined to finish my blog before I start back at work on Monday. It is lovely seeing my family again and I can't wait to catch up with friends over the coming weeks.
I now look forward to sorting through all my photos and remembering all the amazing places I have been, things I have done and people I have met. Plus starting to plan my next trip wherever and whenever that may be!
Wednesday, 30 July 2008
Melbourne!
Well Melbourne is known for its shopping, restaurants and nightlife so I was looking forward to leaving Australia on a high. After months of sleeping in a dorm and after getting little sleep on the last tour I decided to book into my own room. Although that didn't go quite to plan when I went upstairs only to discover that it hadn't been cleaned. However after a few free glasses of wine and a meal it didn't seem to matter so much!
The next day I headed out to the Victoria Markets to purchase some souvenirs and UGG boots. After that I wandered into the centre to buy a pair of heels as with the weather being colder I could no longer wear my flip flops and my trainers were in desperate need of going in the bin. I then wandered along the Southbank, soaking up the atmosphere before taking the historic tram around the rest of the city.
After a lazy morning, breakfast and another spot of shopping Greg and I headed out of town for a scenic helicopter ride over the city, making use of the vouchers that I had kindly been given by work. We were worried that with the weather being a bit overcast that the visibility might not have been great but we were pleasantly surprised.
The flight was fabulous and we spent 20 minutes cruising over the outskirts of Melbourne, up the coast and over St Kilda before heading into the city itself along the Southbank and getting dropped off on the Yarra river. By the end of it we were both on a high and the photos were great.
That night for Anouks birthday I headed out to watch an AFL match. Not being a sport lover I wasn't too sure but was pleasantly surprised. Although we spent the first half chatting it did actually get quite exciting towards the end, especially when the local team won. After that I headed down to the Southbank for a few drinks to finish off the evening.
My last morning in Melbourne was spent having breakfast with Anouk, Dee, Trish and Carol Ann before heading to the airport to sadly catch my flight to Singapore.
The next day I headed out to the Victoria Markets to purchase some souvenirs and UGG boots. After that I wandered into the centre to buy a pair of heels as with the weather being colder I could no longer wear my flip flops and my trainers were in desperate need of going in the bin. I then wandered along the Southbank, soaking up the atmosphere before taking the historic tram around the rest of the city.
After a lazy morning, breakfast and another spot of shopping Greg and I headed out of town for a scenic helicopter ride over the city, making use of the vouchers that I had kindly been given by work. We were worried that with the weather being a bit overcast that the visibility might not have been great but we were pleasantly surprised.
The flight was fabulous and we spent 20 minutes cruising over the outskirts of Melbourne, up the coast and over St Kilda before heading into the city itself along the Southbank and getting dropped off on the Yarra river. By the end of it we were both on a high and the photos were great.
That night for Anouks birthday I headed out to watch an AFL match. Not being a sport lover I wasn't too sure but was pleasantly surprised. Although we spent the first half chatting it did actually get quite exciting towards the end, especially when the local team won. After that I headed down to the Southbank for a few drinks to finish off the evening.
My last morning in Melbourne was spent having breakfast with Anouk, Dee, Trish and Carol Ann before heading to the airport to sadly catch my flight to Singapore.
Adelaide and the Great Ocean Road...
I ended up spending the rest of my time in Adelaide walking along the river and visiting the Botanical Gardens - which were a little bit disappointing, before checking out remaining sights on the free city bus. That evening I caught up with friends and went to the local pub to listen to Adelaide's upcoming talent. Ok they weren't that great but for a Monday nights entertainment you really can't complain!
The next day I was up early once again. I should be used to these early morning starts by now, but with very little sleep I was feeling somewhat jaded. Very quickly my new bus group and I were making introductions as we started our journey to the Grampians and Great Ocean Road.
Yet again it was a lovely mix of people, from an Irish girl who had won an all expenses paid gap year trip around the world on Bebo for six months and was having her experiences filmed for the sight, to an English guy who had an obsession with seagulls and a girl who worked in PR for a charity.
The first day there was a fair bit of driving but we stopped off along the way to take photos of the vast amount of wild kangaroos roaming about near the road, as well as emus and other wildlife. By late afternoon we had arrived in the Grampians National Park and had a walk to the bottom of MacKenzie Falls and watched the sunset, before heading back to the hostel for a feast.
For the first time on tour we had a female guide and without being sexist you could really tell the difference. The food was superb and everything was thought through from the magazines and snacks on the bus, to the marshmallows to toast on the fire in the evenings. Her music left a little bit to be desired though and although I love nothing more than a bit of cheese this was just too much, even for me. The other point of difference was unlike the male guides she wasn't looking to get lucky at the end of the tour!
That night most of us headed to bed quite early, only to be woken a few hours later by people in our dorm having the most ridiculous conversation about topics such as 'what would your last meal on earth be and why'. Why indeed, it certainly wasn't necessary and I made my thoughts known the next morning at breakfast. Well you can't be friends with everyone!
Another early start as we spent the morning hiking the Grampians and one of the pinnacles, before visiting the cultural centre for a cup of tea to warm up. We then made our way to the Great Ocean Road stopping off at the Bay of Martyrs, London Bridge and Lord Ard Gorge, learning about the history of each along the way. We finished the evening watching the sunset over the Twelve Apostles - truly amazing. Although there are only nine remaining now!
One thing that I was a bit surprised about was that the Great Ocean Road is not all right on the sea front and parts of it wind through temperate rainforest. On our third day we stopped off at the Otway National Park to admire some of the native trees and ferns of the area. We then carried on along the Great Ocean Road stopping off at Apollo Bay, the lighthouse from the children's classic 'Round the Twist', Anglesea and Bells Beach, where Point Break was based.
I was particularly pleased with myself to spot a mother and baby humpback whale off the coast which we stopped and watched play for a while, before moving on to the koalas which were overhanging the road a few hundred yards in front.
Our last stop of the day was Torquay (home of Rip Curl and Quicksilver) for a bit of outlet shopping before arriving into Melbourne just after 7pm. It was another great tour but by the end of it I was quite pleased to be based in a city for a few days, catching up with old friends and having a well deserved lie-in!
The next day I was up early once again. I should be used to these early morning starts by now, but with very little sleep I was feeling somewhat jaded. Very quickly my new bus group and I were making introductions as we started our journey to the Grampians and Great Ocean Road.
Yet again it was a lovely mix of people, from an Irish girl who had won an all expenses paid gap year trip around the world on Bebo for six months and was having her experiences filmed for the sight, to an English guy who had an obsession with seagulls and a girl who worked in PR for a charity.
The first day there was a fair bit of driving but we stopped off along the way to take photos of the vast amount of wild kangaroos roaming about near the road, as well as emus and other wildlife. By late afternoon we had arrived in the Grampians National Park and had a walk to the bottom of MacKenzie Falls and watched the sunset, before heading back to the hostel for a feast.
For the first time on tour we had a female guide and without being sexist you could really tell the difference. The food was superb and everything was thought through from the magazines and snacks on the bus, to the marshmallows to toast on the fire in the evenings. Her music left a little bit to be desired though and although I love nothing more than a bit of cheese this was just too much, even for me. The other point of difference was unlike the male guides she wasn't looking to get lucky at the end of the tour!
That night most of us headed to bed quite early, only to be woken a few hours later by people in our dorm having the most ridiculous conversation about topics such as 'what would your last meal on earth be and why'. Why indeed, it certainly wasn't necessary and I made my thoughts known the next morning at breakfast. Well you can't be friends with everyone!
Another early start as we spent the morning hiking the Grampians and one of the pinnacles, before visiting the cultural centre for a cup of tea to warm up. We then made our way to the Great Ocean Road stopping off at the Bay of Martyrs, London Bridge and Lord Ard Gorge, learning about the history of each along the way. We finished the evening watching the sunset over the Twelve Apostles - truly amazing. Although there are only nine remaining now!
One thing that I was a bit surprised about was that the Great Ocean Road is not all right on the sea front and parts of it wind through temperate rainforest. On our third day we stopped off at the Otway National Park to admire some of the native trees and ferns of the area. We then carried on along the Great Ocean Road stopping off at Apollo Bay, the lighthouse from the children's classic 'Round the Twist', Anglesea and Bells Beach, where Point Break was based.
I was particularly pleased with myself to spot a mother and baby humpback whale off the coast which we stopped and watched play for a while, before moving on to the koalas which were overhanging the road a few hundred yards in front.
Our last stop of the day was Torquay (home of Rip Curl and Quicksilver) for a bit of outlet shopping before arriving into Melbourne just after 7pm. It was another great tour but by the end of it I was quite pleased to be based in a city for a few days, catching up with old friends and having a well deserved lie-in!
Sunday, 20 July 2008
Alice Springs to Adelaide
Leaving my Irish friends behind (although I will meet up again with them in Melbourne) I headed off to Adelaide. Although I could have flown or taken the Gan (train), I opted to take a tour which stopped off at Coober Pedy for the night along the way.
As this was less of a tour and more of a means of getting from A to B I didn't really bond with the group in the same way I had on the other three tours. Nevertheless they were still good fun and as most of the time we were only driving anyway it really didn't matter.
After a full day of driving we stopped off just outside Coober Pedy at the Breakaways to take in the baron landscape which resembles Mars and as such has been used for a number of film settings, including Mad Max and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. It was so windy though that we didn't stop for long as we were literally getting blown about (as was the mini-bus whenever a road train passed us by).
Coober Pedy itself is home to 80% of the world's opal production with the locals living underground. Despite it being the largest town between Alice and Adelaide it is tiny with only a handful of opal shops plus a couple of restaurants and accommodation.
We visited an underground mine and learnt all about the opal production as well as looking at a typical underground home, which is kept at a constant temperature all year round with no need for heating or air conditioning. Whilst I loved the coloured stone walls I think I would go crazy with no natural sunlight.
That evening we had dinner at a local pizza restaurant but with fresh produce only arriving in Coober Pedy once a week it certainly wasn't the best I had ever tasted. Tinned mushrooms are not my favourite!
We too slept underground in a hostel which was cool but getting up at 4.30am the next morning to continue our journey to Adelaide certainly wasn't. There was little to see on route besides a salt lake so we managed to arrive into Adelaide in good time.
I now have a free day to explore the city of Adelaide itself. So far I have only made it to the shops to buy myself some warmer clothes as its freezing. However as the city is so compact I am sure I will fit in most of the sights before I head off in the morning for the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians.
Apologies for the lack of photos. I will try and upload these when I get to Melbourne in a few days I promise. Can't believe that in less than week I will be leaving Australia to head home via Singapore. It's a shame I won't have managed to visit the West Coast or Tasmania but there is always next time I suppose.
As this was less of a tour and more of a means of getting from A to B I didn't really bond with the group in the same way I had on the other three tours. Nevertheless they were still good fun and as most of the time we were only driving anyway it really didn't matter.
After a full day of driving we stopped off just outside Coober Pedy at the Breakaways to take in the baron landscape which resembles Mars and as such has been used for a number of film settings, including Mad Max and Priscilla Queen of the Desert. It was so windy though that we didn't stop for long as we were literally getting blown about (as was the mini-bus whenever a road train passed us by).
Coober Pedy itself is home to 80% of the world's opal production with the locals living underground. Despite it being the largest town between Alice and Adelaide it is tiny with only a handful of opal shops plus a couple of restaurants and accommodation.
We visited an underground mine and learnt all about the opal production as well as looking at a typical underground home, which is kept at a constant temperature all year round with no need for heating or air conditioning. Whilst I loved the coloured stone walls I think I would go crazy with no natural sunlight.
That evening we had dinner at a local pizza restaurant but with fresh produce only arriving in Coober Pedy once a week it certainly wasn't the best I had ever tasted. Tinned mushrooms are not my favourite!
We too slept underground in a hostel which was cool but getting up at 4.30am the next morning to continue our journey to Adelaide certainly wasn't. There was little to see on route besides a salt lake so we managed to arrive into Adelaide in good time.
I now have a free day to explore the city of Adelaide itself. So far I have only made it to the shops to buy myself some warmer clothes as its freezing. However as the city is so compact I am sure I will fit in most of the sights before I head off in the morning for the Great Ocean Road and the Grampians.
Apologies for the lack of photos. I will try and upload these when I get to Melbourne in a few days I promise. Can't believe that in less than week I will be leaving Australia to head home via Singapore. It's a shame I won't have managed to visit the West Coast or Tasmania but there is always next time I suppose.
The Red Centre
The final leg of my 10 day outback adventure was to the Red Centre taking in of course the sights of Uluru (Ayers Rock) and the Kings Canyon along the way.
On the first morning we stopped off at a camel farm (I decided not to have a ride but take pictures instead) before heading to camp just outside Uluru for lunch, passing 'Fooluru' along the way. I can't remember its official name but is nicknamed Fooluru as a few dosy tourists head out to the Red Centre and see a large rock and thinking that it is Uluru take photos and head back, never actually reaching the real thing.
We then headed to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) for a hike through the 'Valley of the Winds' before spending sunset at a viewing point watching the sun go down behind Uluru and the rock gradually changing colour. Getting redder and redder before going a dull black/brown colour.
That night it was absolutely freezing (minus 1 to be precise) and I barely slept despite wearing all my clothes and a hat and scarf to bed. It could have been worse though as I bumped into my friend Anouk in the showers (I did know she was going to be at the rock at the same time) and when I got back to my camp all the sleeping bags had gone. I thought I was going to have to get in with one of the girls until my guide managed to borrow one off another group.
The next day was yet again an early start as we headed back to Uluru to do a base walk and watch the sunrise. I think this was even more spectacular than sunrise probably because we were so close to the rock itself and could really appreciate its vastness. It is still possible to climb Uluru but as it is against the Aborigines wishes our group decided against it. The photos are quite amusing as I am wearing so many clothes that I resemble a Michelin man!
Afterwards we headed to the cultural centre for a well deserved cup of tea and a look at some of the Aboriginal ladies from the local villages painting some traditional pictures.
That night we camped at Kings Canyon. Although slightly warmer I wasn't feeling that great so dosed myself up before clambering into my swag. It was probably a good thing as at least I wasn't kept awake by the howling dingoes like most.
I also decided to refrain from trying a whittchery grub (those horrible white fat worm like creatures that are eaten on 'I'm a Celebrity'). We stopped on the side of the road after collecting the firewood for that evening and started digging at the roots of the trees looking for a swelling where they live. We only found two, one which Zoe ate raw (tasted like egg yoke apparently) and the other which was later cooked on the fire and passed around (tastes like nuts when cooked allegedly).
Our last morning we headed for a hike up Kings Canyon. It is extremely steep to start and is affectionately known as 'heart attack hill'. The views from the top are yet again stunning although because of its vastness the pictures just don't d0 it justice. Along the route we checked out the 'Amphitheatre' and 'Garden of Eden'.
During our three days at the Red Centre we saw quite a lot of wildlife including a group of wild camels on the side of the road, ferrel dogs, wallabies (mostly roadkill) and eagles.
That night as is customary after a tour the group went out for dinner and joined in a didgeridoo competition before heading to the bar for a few drinks and a dance. After trying a didgeridoo for the first time the night before and realising I couldn't get the technique right I opted out and cheered on my mates instead!
On the first morning we stopped off at a camel farm (I decided not to have a ride but take pictures instead) before heading to camp just outside Uluru for lunch, passing 'Fooluru' along the way. I can't remember its official name but is nicknamed Fooluru as a few dosy tourists head out to the Red Centre and see a large rock and thinking that it is Uluru take photos and head back, never actually reaching the real thing.
We then headed to Kata Tjuta (the Olgas) for a hike through the 'Valley of the Winds' before spending sunset at a viewing point watching the sun go down behind Uluru and the rock gradually changing colour. Getting redder and redder before going a dull black/brown colour.
That night it was absolutely freezing (minus 1 to be precise) and I barely slept despite wearing all my clothes and a hat and scarf to bed. It could have been worse though as I bumped into my friend Anouk in the showers (I did know she was going to be at the rock at the same time) and when I got back to my camp all the sleeping bags had gone. I thought I was going to have to get in with one of the girls until my guide managed to borrow one off another group.
The next day was yet again an early start as we headed back to Uluru to do a base walk and watch the sunrise. I think this was even more spectacular than sunrise probably because we were so close to the rock itself and could really appreciate its vastness. It is still possible to climb Uluru but as it is against the Aborigines wishes our group decided against it. The photos are quite amusing as I am wearing so many clothes that I resemble a Michelin man!
Afterwards we headed to the cultural centre for a well deserved cup of tea and a look at some of the Aboriginal ladies from the local villages painting some traditional pictures.
That night we camped at Kings Canyon. Although slightly warmer I wasn't feeling that great so dosed myself up before clambering into my swag. It was probably a good thing as at least I wasn't kept awake by the howling dingoes like most.
I also decided to refrain from trying a whittchery grub (those horrible white fat worm like creatures that are eaten on 'I'm a Celebrity'). We stopped on the side of the road after collecting the firewood for that evening and started digging at the roots of the trees looking for a swelling where they live. We only found two, one which Zoe ate raw (tasted like egg yoke apparently) and the other which was later cooked on the fire and passed around (tastes like nuts when cooked allegedly).
Our last morning we headed for a hike up Kings Canyon. It is extremely steep to start and is affectionately known as 'heart attack hill'. The views from the top are yet again stunning although because of its vastness the pictures just don't d0 it justice. Along the route we checked out the 'Amphitheatre' and 'Garden of Eden'.
During our three days at the Red Centre we saw quite a lot of wildlife including a group of wild camels on the side of the road, ferrel dogs, wallabies (mostly roadkill) and eagles.
That night as is customary after a tour the group went out for dinner and joined in a didgeridoo competition before heading to the bar for a few drinks and a dance. After trying a didgeridoo for the first time the night before and realising I couldn't get the technique right I opted out and cheered on my mates instead!
Darwin - Alice Springs
The next leg of my trip was from Darwin to Alice Springs. Whilst there is not as much to see in between it was quite breathtaking just to travel for hours on end through the outback and take in the scenery and remoteness.
This time our group was much bigger (24 of us in total) and as we were travelling by road we could go in a mini-bus rather than 4wd. We spent most of the afternoon at the Katherine Gorge which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Whilst we could take a river cruise or canoe along it I decided to just chill out and beside a short walk to the look-out I relaxed in the sun with the wallabies.
After a night in tents (we did have the option of swags but as it was starting to get colder we decided we would sleep in our tents with our swags as well. When you have the option you might as well take advantage of it!) we headed off to Mataranka.
Mataranka is a thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Although at 8am in the morning we were absolutely freezing we stripped off and jumped in - it was so worth it. Whilst the water was quite murky in some parts, with a few submerged logs along the way, the water was bath temperature and certainly warmed us up.
After that we headed to the Daly Waters pub for lunch, the Territory's oldest pub which is uniquely decorated with everything from underwear, to money and even flip flops. You really have to see the pictures to understand what a unique pub it really is. That night we camped at Tennant Creek.
On the morning of our third day we stopped off at the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously to take a few photos as well as one of the few surviving Telegraph Stations (and sight of the Peter Falconi disappearance) to get an understanding of what outback telecommunication used to be like.
That night the group went out in Alice for a few too many drinks and many of us were feeling a little worse for wear the next day. However as I quickly discovered there is very little to do in Alice itself with the highlights being the reptile centre, the flying doctors and Anzac hill with a view over the town. The mall in the town centre is eerily quiet with very few actual shops.
The reptile experience was quite amusing though as after we had looked around we came across a guy handling some of the reptiles in the garden. Thinking he worked there we started to pick them up out of their boxes as well and have our photos taken with them, only to later discover that these were in fact sick and were being given some much needed sunshine. The organised handling session was actually going on inside.
This time our group was much bigger (24 of us in total) and as we were travelling by road we could go in a mini-bus rather than 4wd. We spent most of the afternoon at the Katherine Gorge which is part of the Nitmiluk National Park. Whilst we could take a river cruise or canoe along it I decided to just chill out and beside a short walk to the look-out I relaxed in the sun with the wallabies.
After a night in tents (we did have the option of swags but as it was starting to get colder we decided we would sleep in our tents with our swags as well. When you have the option you might as well take advantage of it!) we headed off to Mataranka.
Mataranka is a thermal pool surrounded by lush tropical forest. Although at 8am in the morning we were absolutely freezing we stripped off and jumped in - it was so worth it. Whilst the water was quite murky in some parts, with a few submerged logs along the way, the water was bath temperature and certainly warmed us up.
After that we headed to the Daly Waters pub for lunch, the Territory's oldest pub which is uniquely decorated with everything from underwear, to money and even flip flops. You really have to see the pictures to understand what a unique pub it really is. That night we camped at Tennant Creek.
On the morning of our third day we stopped off at the sacred site of the Devils Marbles, which balance precariously to take a few photos as well as one of the few surviving Telegraph Stations (and sight of the Peter Falconi disappearance) to get an understanding of what outback telecommunication used to be like.
That night the group went out in Alice for a few too many drinks and many of us were feeling a little worse for wear the next day. However as I quickly discovered there is very little to do in Alice itself with the highlights being the reptile centre, the flying doctors and Anzac hill with a view over the town. The mall in the town centre is eerily quiet with very few actual shops.
The reptile experience was quite amusing though as after we had looked around we came across a guy handling some of the reptiles in the garden. Thinking he worked there we started to pick them up out of their boxes as well and have our photos taken with them, only to later discover that these were in fact sick and were being given some much needed sunshine. The organised handling session was actually going on inside.
Darwin and Kakadu
Apologies for the lack of update and pictures lately but internet access in the Outback has been limited to say the least. When I did eventually find a computer it was so archaic that it took forever to even check my emails!
So much has happened in the last couple of weeks that I hardly know where to begin. I arrived in Darwin two weeks ago with no voice, (probably from partying too much up the East Coast) tired and stressed after almost missing my flight and then being delayed for over three hours after two unsuccessful attempts to take off while they checked the problem out!
By the time I checked-in it was too late to explore Darwin itself so I had dinner with my room mates before getting an early night as I was getting picked up at 5.30am the next morning (a start time that was to become all too familiar over the course of the next few weeks) to head off to Kakadu.
There were 10 of us on my first leg of the tour to Kakadu and somehow I had booked myself on the 'unleashed' trip which involved some serious trekking as well as camping in swags (a mattress and cover) under the stars and cooking everything on the fire.
The whole experience was amazing though. I made friends with three Irish girls (who were with me for the entire 10 days) as well as two Aussie lads and the six of us got on really well.
First stop of the trip was the Mary River. Unlike the Daintree River when we only saw a few crocs, this river was literally full of them. We cruised around in a tiny tin boat and were quite scared when the skipper started to antagonise them by banging his shoe on the side of the boat when we had got up really close, so that they snapped at us. At one point there was a huge splash and I really thought a croc had tried to jump in with us until I realised it was in fact a Baramundi fish which had landed on the lap of the girl in front of me.
That afternoon we headed to Ubirr to look at the Aboriginal rock art which dates back over 20,000 years as well as listen to some of the Dreamtime stories.
After a night in my swag we were up early to head to Jim Jim falls. Unlike all the other groups we actually climbed to the top and to say it was a challenge would be an understatement. It took over 5 hours to get to the top and back down again but the result was sensational with views over all of Kakadu. We then swam at the bottom of the falls but unlike some it was too cold for me to swim the whole way across (plus the guide said there may be fresh water crocs in there) so after a quick dip I hastily got out.
Next stop of the day was Twin Falls. You can no longer access the falls by foot so we took a boat across the gorge, before walking along the boardwalk. Whilst swimming is not permitted the sight was quite magical and we sat on the sandy banks and relaxed for a bit before heading back to camp.
Our third day was spent at the Warradjan Cultural Centre finding out a bit more about the aboriginal culture before having a hike at Maguk (Barramundi Falls) and cooling off in the plunge pools. Warmer than the day before I actually swam in these pools although wasn't adventurous enough to jump into one particular pool and then dive through a hole to exit it. Trish bless her thought it would be fun to try however couldn't dive under to get out so we spent a good half hour (or should I say the guide did) trying to haul her out. The video footage is priceless!
Whilst the camping experience was great fun with everyone pitching in to help prepare the food, wash up etc the 4wd experience was really quite scary. The waterfalls are only accessible by 4wd and at numerous points we literally thought we were going to topple over with the truck violently swerving from side to side. What made us even more nervous was that unfortunately whilst we were in Kakadu another tour bus overturned and one guy died. However thankfully we all arrived back in Darwin in one piece.
We had a small setback when the three Irish girls and I thought accommodation was included back in Darwin so we didn't book anything and being peak season there were only two free dorm beds. However with a bit of sweet talking we got a motel room instead (towels and toiletries included, which of course we took!). We then headed to the night markets for a wander round before hitting the local pub for a few drinks. A great end to my Kakadu experience.
So much has happened in the last couple of weeks that I hardly know where to begin. I arrived in Darwin two weeks ago with no voice, (probably from partying too much up the East Coast) tired and stressed after almost missing my flight and then being delayed for over three hours after two unsuccessful attempts to take off while they checked the problem out!
By the time I checked-in it was too late to explore Darwin itself so I had dinner with my room mates before getting an early night as I was getting picked up at 5.30am the next morning (a start time that was to become all too familiar over the course of the next few weeks) to head off to Kakadu.
There were 10 of us on my first leg of the tour to Kakadu and somehow I had booked myself on the 'unleashed' trip which involved some serious trekking as well as camping in swags (a mattress and cover) under the stars and cooking everything on the fire.
The whole experience was amazing though. I made friends with three Irish girls (who were with me for the entire 10 days) as well as two Aussie lads and the six of us got on really well.
First stop of the trip was the Mary River. Unlike the Daintree River when we only saw a few crocs, this river was literally full of them. We cruised around in a tiny tin boat and were quite scared when the skipper started to antagonise them by banging his shoe on the side of the boat when we had got up really close, so that they snapped at us. At one point there was a huge splash and I really thought a croc had tried to jump in with us until I realised it was in fact a Baramundi fish which had landed on the lap of the girl in front of me.
That afternoon we headed to Ubirr to look at the Aboriginal rock art which dates back over 20,000 years as well as listen to some of the Dreamtime stories.
After a night in my swag we were up early to head to Jim Jim falls. Unlike all the other groups we actually climbed to the top and to say it was a challenge would be an understatement. It took over 5 hours to get to the top and back down again but the result was sensational with views over all of Kakadu. We then swam at the bottom of the falls but unlike some it was too cold for me to swim the whole way across (plus the guide said there may be fresh water crocs in there) so after a quick dip I hastily got out.
Next stop of the day was Twin Falls. You can no longer access the falls by foot so we took a boat across the gorge, before walking along the boardwalk. Whilst swimming is not permitted the sight was quite magical and we sat on the sandy banks and relaxed for a bit before heading back to camp.
Our third day was spent at the Warradjan Cultural Centre finding out a bit more about the aboriginal culture before having a hike at Maguk (Barramundi Falls) and cooling off in the plunge pools. Warmer than the day before I actually swam in these pools although wasn't adventurous enough to jump into one particular pool and then dive through a hole to exit it. Trish bless her thought it would be fun to try however couldn't dive under to get out so we spent a good half hour (or should I say the guide did) trying to haul her out. The video footage is priceless!
Whilst the camping experience was great fun with everyone pitching in to help prepare the food, wash up etc the 4wd experience was really quite scary. The waterfalls are only accessible by 4wd and at numerous points we literally thought we were going to topple over with the truck violently swerving from side to side. What made us even more nervous was that unfortunately whilst we were in Kakadu another tour bus overturned and one guy died. However thankfully we all arrived back in Darwin in one piece.
We had a small setback when the three Irish girls and I thought accommodation was included back in Darwin so we didn't book anything and being peak season there were only two free dorm beds. However with a bit of sweet talking we got a motel room instead (towels and toiletries included, which of course we took!). We then headed to the night markets for a wander round before hitting the local pub for a few drinks. A great end to my Kakadu experience.
Sunday, 6 July 2008
Cairns, Cape Tribulation and the Barrier Reef
I thought six days in Cairns would be ample time to see all the sights but time has flown by and I have struggled to fit it all in. I had a lovely afternoon with Paula and her friend when I first arrived, enjoying a sushi lunch and ice creams and catching up on all the news from back home.
The following day I spent a lazy day with friends at the lagoon, topping up my tan before making the most of the all you can eat buffet at my hostel in the evening and playing cards.
Thursday I set off to Cape Tribulation on a tour, stopping off for a walk and a dip at the Mossman gorge on the way and then enjoying an afternoon boat cruise along the Daintree river to spot the crocs sunning themselves. After that we headed up to Cape Tribulation.
Initially I wanted to go on a boat on my free day in Cape Trib out to the Great Barrier Reef but it was fully booked so instead I decided to explore the island, stopping off at the look out, walking along the beaches, dipping my feet in the watering hole (it was too cold to get in) and taking a board walk through the rainforest. The scenery in and around Cape Tribulation is so diverse and absolutely stunning. We were so impressed that our room even got up at 5.30am to sit on the beach and watch the sunrise. A well worthwhile trip.
Saturday despite a big night out in Cairns Yasmin and I got up early to do a free aqua aerobics class in the lagoon (shame on the others for not getting out of bed!). Was due to catch up with Jon on the Saturday morning but ran into him in the club which was a lovely surprise. That afternoon we all headed out to Palm Cove, a nearby beach for the day.
Yesterday Jon and I went on a boat trip to Green Island. The snorkelling off the island was amazing, plus I saw a reef tip shark. Jon did an intro dive but as I had only done mine a week beforehand I opted to just snorkel instead. We also spent a couple of hours on the island exploring and sunbathing before sailing back to meet up with the others for some goodbye drinks as next stop for me is Darwin. Can't believe I have finished my East Coast adventures. I have absolutely loved it and am sad to be leaving Cairns, but at the same time excited about what lies ahead.
The following day I spent a lazy day with friends at the lagoon, topping up my tan before making the most of the all you can eat buffet at my hostel in the evening and playing cards.
Thursday I set off to Cape Tribulation on a tour, stopping off for a walk and a dip at the Mossman gorge on the way and then enjoying an afternoon boat cruise along the Daintree river to spot the crocs sunning themselves. After that we headed up to Cape Tribulation.
Initially I wanted to go on a boat on my free day in Cape Trib out to the Great Barrier Reef but it was fully booked so instead I decided to explore the island, stopping off at the look out, walking along the beaches, dipping my feet in the watering hole (it was too cold to get in) and taking a board walk through the rainforest. The scenery in and around Cape Tribulation is so diverse and absolutely stunning. We were so impressed that our room even got up at 5.30am to sit on the beach and watch the sunrise. A well worthwhile trip.
Saturday despite a big night out in Cairns Yasmin and I got up early to do a free aqua aerobics class in the lagoon (shame on the others for not getting out of bed!). Was due to catch up with Jon on the Saturday morning but ran into him in the club which was a lovely surprise. That afternoon we all headed out to Palm Cove, a nearby beach for the day.
Yesterday Jon and I went on a boat trip to Green Island. The snorkelling off the island was amazing, plus I saw a reef tip shark. Jon did an intro dive but as I had only done mine a week beforehand I opted to just snorkel instead. We also spent a couple of hours on the island exploring and sunbathing before sailing back to meet up with the others for some goodbye drinks as next stop for me is Darwin. Can't believe I have finished my East Coast adventures. I have absolutely loved it and am sad to be leaving Cairns, but at the same time excited about what lies ahead.
Magnetic Island
Keen to break up the journey between Airlie Beach (otherwise known as Scary Beach because everyone goes crazy after their boat trips) I decided to stop off at Magnetic Island. Plus as I had already done white water rafting and a sky dive, there was little point stopping off at Mission Beach.
Magnetic Island is a tiny little island situated 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville. It is very underdeveloped which makes the scenery so much more spectacular, with very few shops and accommodation. Chloe and I decided to stay at the YHA, which consists of wooden bungalows set amongst the forest. It was gorgeous and only a few minutes walk to the beach at Horeshoe Bay so we had some beers on the front the first night and watched the sunset.
The next day we wanted to explore the island, as well as try and catch up with friends staying in a hostel the opposite side to us, so we decided to hire a Barbie topless car (a little Moke). Driving round in it all day was great fun. We visited the different beaches as well as taking the well known Forts Walk where the Koalas reside. We were lucky enough to spot four. Plus they were really close to the path so we were able to take some great pictures too.
As I was meeting Paula in Cairns the following lunchtime I took the overnight bus which was once again packed, so I got very little sleep and arrived at 6am the following morning feeling quite jaded.
Magnetic Island is a tiny little island situated 20 minutes by ferry from Townsville. It is very underdeveloped which makes the scenery so much more spectacular, with very few shops and accommodation. Chloe and I decided to stay at the YHA, which consists of wooden bungalows set amongst the forest. It was gorgeous and only a few minutes walk to the beach at Horeshoe Bay so we had some beers on the front the first night and watched the sunset.
The next day we wanted to explore the island, as well as try and catch up with friends staying in a hostel the opposite side to us, so we decided to hire a Barbie topless car (a little Moke). Driving round in it all day was great fun. We visited the different beaches as well as taking the well known Forts Walk where the Koalas reside. We were lucky enough to spot four. Plus they were really close to the path so we were able to take some great pictures too.
As I was meeting Paula in Cairns the following lunchtime I took the overnight bus which was once again packed, so I got very little sleep and arrived at 6am the following morning feeling quite jaded.
The Whitsundays!
The Whitsundays boat trip was amazing. I spent three days, two nights on a classic sailing boat called Summertime with 15 others, cruising around the islands. The first day was a little bit overcast but that didn't stop us enjoying the gorgeous Whitehaven beach and spectacular views, as well as messing about on the beach taking photos. That evening despite our intentions of getting drunk, the sea air had made us all so tired (plus some were still feeling sick from the rough weather conditions) that we were in bed by 11pm.
The following morning we were up early to begin our day of water activities. I decided to do an introductory dive in Luncheon Bay, although as I was listening to the briefing I was getting more and more nervous. The instructor was great and while he taught the other three in my group their skills off the beach I was told just to float on the surface and practice my breathing. After a little while I had calmed my breathing down enough to set off. Although I was extremely scared and held the instructors hand the whole time I was amazed at all the fish and coral we saw and it is definitely something I am glad I experienced.
That afternoon I tried a spot of snorkelling at nearby Mantra Bay which was also absolutely stunning. Plus we saw a huge Mantra ray swim alongside the boat. The final day we went sea kayaking and saw three turtles swim alongside side us as well as loads of other fish and stingers.
When we were not doing water based activity we spent our time eating (the food was great and loads of it), sunbathing, warming up in the hot tub or chatting and watching the sunset. I spent my last night in Airlie Beach with everyone off the boat having far too many drinks and reminiscing, before catching the bus early the next morning up to Magnetic Island.
The following morning we were up early to begin our day of water activities. I decided to do an introductory dive in Luncheon Bay, although as I was listening to the briefing I was getting more and more nervous. The instructor was great and while he taught the other three in my group their skills off the beach I was told just to float on the surface and practice my breathing. After a little while I had calmed my breathing down enough to set off. Although I was extremely scared and held the instructors hand the whole time I was amazed at all the fish and coral we saw and it is definitely something I am glad I experienced.
That afternoon I tried a spot of snorkelling at nearby Mantra Bay which was also absolutely stunning. Plus we saw a huge Mantra ray swim alongside the boat. The final day we went sea kayaking and saw three turtles swim alongside side us as well as loads of other fish and stingers.
When we were not doing water based activity we spent our time eating (the food was great and loads of it), sunbathing, warming up in the hot tub or chatting and watching the sunset. I spent my last night in Airlie Beach with everyone off the boat having far too many drinks and reminiscing, before catching the bus early the next morning up to Magnetic Island.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
