AUSTRALIA - 6 Oct au 15 Nov 2006

October 6, 2006

Got in Sydney at 6h20am. Luckily, there were phones where we could call hostels for free. Very useful!!! So, I found a hostel where I’ll stay for the week. They will pick me up at the airport. It is cheap; in the city (King Cross area… so maybe a 20 minute walk to the Opera House and the city center); free bread, rice, coffee, tea, hot chocolate; free internet and TV. I cannot ask for more really. My big goal today was to plan my time in Australia, to cover the most ground I can, before my parents get here. I have a month to do that. Here is what I figured out. Sometime during this week, I will go for a day tour to the Blue Mountains. In a week’s time, I am going to gly to Cairns and stay for a day. Then I will leave for a 4-day tour from Cairns to Alice Springs in the deserts of Australia! I will stay in Alice Springs for a day and leave for a second tour from AS to Adelaide (8 days). This is what I have planned so far. The rest (Adelaide to Melbourne and Melbourne back to Sydney) I will plan later.

Also today, I did some Internet and walked around. I saw the Opera House and the Darling Harbour Bridge, the Circular Quay, Darling Harbour, Botanic Gardens…

The hardest part is the first one or two days when you get in a country, well for me anyways. Once I put my foot out the door and start to explore everything falls into place again! So weird and fun! I think it is one of the greatest feelings in the world! You just feel suddenly free; to do whatever you want. And, for a short time you are a master of the world! Love it!!

October 7, 2006

Relaxing day. I went for a run in the Botanical Gardens, around the Opera House, to the Darling Harbour Bridge and back. Then, with all the bookings I did, Travel Bugs gave me a total of 25 hours free of Internet, so I did some internet!! Now that everything is paid for, I do not have to pay anything or worry about money for the next month or so (unless something unexpected comes up).

In the evening, I watched a film (“Constantine”) and read my book.

October 8, 2006

Woohooo, cool day! Today was my day trip to the Blue Mountains. Our first stop was the Olympic Park! Then, we got to Featherdale Wildlife Park. I took a picture with a koala (they are the cutest thing ever!), a kangaroo and a snake. I saw a half tone crocodile, eagles, Tasmanian devils, peacocks, etc. We took a short walk to the Wentworth Falls, but apparently, the water level is low so it is not at its greatest. I think it is still nice! Then we headed to Eco Point to view the “Three Sisters”. They have a big spiritual and religious importance dor the Aboriginals. After, I took the world’s steepest railway to the valley floor (it is in the Guinness Book of World Records), walked through rain forests and returned by cable car.

I found out why the mountains are named “blue” mountains. They are invaded with eucalyptus plants that extract their oil, which interferes with the spectrum of light so it gives that blueish glare from a distance.

In the afternoon, we visited the historic town Leura. There’s many gardens, antic and craft stores, and famous for its huge Candy Shop!! On the way back, we enjoyed a relaxing Matilda River Cruise along the Parramatta River to Circular Quay and Darling Harbour. I was asked on a date on my way out of the boat! Hihi! Well, why not? Just might call him tomorrow. I will see.

October 9, 2006

Nothing exciting today. Slept late, read a lot and went for a good long run along the seashore. The rest of the day I just wandered around like a lost soul… well, I am a lost soul if you think about it… I feel like it anyway. Oh, I didn’t call the guy after all… because I lost the paper with his number!! Maybe that is a sign… Nevertheless, I still went back to where his boat usually docks in hopes of maybe seeing him but no luck…

October 10, 2006

Same as yesterday. Then I went walking in the city center; shopping malls, MLC Center, St-Mary’s Cathedral, Archibald Fountain (in Hyde Park), Sydney Tower, Sydney Aquarium and Darling Harbour. I was on a big search for a bikini today, but came out with t-tops… They were cheap! Anyways, I came back a little after diner. I watched some Simpsons and Family Guy and went to bed early.

October 11, 2006

I am getting bored now. I finished my last book… snif, snif. I had to go and some more! And, I did! It is called “The 5$ Bookstore”, so yes all the books where 5$. Then did the usual, laundry, running, Internet and wandered around. I had a huge surprise this morning!! My aunt Gin gave me a call at the hostel!! It felt so nice to hear her voice! That definitely made my day!

I was looking at some “ski packages” in brochures and I just realized it will be beginning of ski season when I get back home… Can’t wait to ski!!!

October 12, 2006

Well, not much today. Woke up late, packed my stuff and checked out of the hostel. I had to wait until 4pm for the airport shuttle so decided to go “book shopping”. I am starting to have a lifetime supply of books in my bag, and my bag is getting very heavy! Once at the airport, shopped, read and drank a huge coffee!! My flight to Cairns was supposed to leave at 7pm but it was delayed. Therefore, this meant that I would be late for my pick up in Cairns… When I got to Cairns, I called the hostel (Bohemian Resort) that was supposed to pick me up and luckily I was just on time for the last pickup… oufff!! But surprise, when I got to the hostel, they had forgotten to book me in!! So not surprised, but really annoyed! Obviously, they found me a room because at this hour it was somewhat impossible to find another place to stay. So, I slept with 3 other boys.

October 13, 2006

After 4 hours of sleep, I decided I had enough so got up, had breakfast and went for a run. Afterwards, I arranged my stuff and took a shower. I caught up on my sleep in the afternoon when I did 4 hours of tanning by the pool! I must admit the pool was great at the hostel; clear, cold with a waterfall! Since I was only 1 day in Cairns, I figured it would be nice to go scope it out! So, I took the shuttle to the Lagoon, the ocean view in Cairns. It is much commercialized and people in general are a bit snobbish but it still has its charm. There’s a huge pool built at the same level and along the ocean, it is very cool! I walked around to see the harbour, shops, casino, etc.

The rest of my evening was spent reading by the pool at the hostel. Since I have to wake up at 5am tomorrow morning, and I know the boys will come in a noisy parade, I decided to get a head start on my sleep early (around 10pm… so it’s not that early).

I am feeling a bit lonely today. Its one thing to travel for months but it is another to travel for months on your own. It is a tester. I am dam proud of myself I can tell you that!

I am not too impressed with Australia so far. Everyone was telling me that it was going to be my highlight… However, up to now, not so much! I do not know what the big thing is. Although I cannot say anything to quickly since, I have only seen Sydney and Cairns. Sydney is a nice city. I felt comfortable. I just feel like you have to be in a “party mood” all the time because that’s all people seem to be doing; sleep all day and drink until you drop at night. What is the point in that? Occasionally, that is fine. It would be probably different if I were traveling with friends.

I cannot wait to get a hug from… well, from anyone really! I will get some soon, when mom and dad come up!

October 14, 2006

Started my first tour, Desert Venturer Cairns to Alice Springs Tour, this morning. We left at 6am this morning. We spent the morning traveling through green grass, volcanic soil, dairy farms and rain forests to Eucalypt forests. Went to Atherton Tablelands to see a beautiful waterfall! We stopped at Australia’s smallest bar, the Oasis Road House, for our picnic lunch (reminded me of our lunches in Africa!). In the afternoon, we got to Porcupine Gorge, Australia’s mini Grand Canyon (reminded my of Lion King). In the evening, arrived at the Western Hotel in Hughenden for our diner and night stay.

However, it is not over! You know me, cannot start anything without injuring myself somewhere. Going down into Porcupine Gorge, I smacked my little left toe on a rock… I am surprised my toe is still on my foot! I just cleaned it now. It’s black, and so is my the lateral side of my foot. I am having trouble walking at this point. Someone gave me some painkillers (with codeine), no need to say this is going to knock me off quickly. Hope it will be better tomorrow… I met Nyala (Germany), Neil (England) and Eric (Sweden) today. Nyala was kind to give me some cream to rub on my foot; the same Simona gave me for my ankle in Malawi.

October 15, 2006

Good! My toe was much better this morning; pain wise anyways. The color has already changed from black to yellow/purple/green.

Change of scenery today; flat black soil plains. It’s freggin hot; around 40 degrees!! We stopped at Winton, where the flight company Quantas first started (1920) and birthplace of Ozzy’s non-official national anthem, the “Waltzing Matilda”. Then we stopped at Carisbrook Station to view the basement of the original Inland Sea and viewed authentic aboriginal rock art. We enjoyed a BBQ for lunch. In the afternoon, we stopped at Middleton Pub, population of 6 (including the dog!). Then we continued to Boulia where I saw some “mirrage” and camels before arriving to Wirrelyerna Station for diner (around a campfire!) and night stay (a farm in the middle of smack nowhere!). It was very cozy and peaceful.

Well, Nyala made up my mind about going to Germany! She welcomed me to her home if I want to and she’ll show me the Christmas markets!! I really want to see those, they look to fun!! Woohoo!

October 16, 2006

I had trouble sleeping last night, even though the place was great! The moon was shining in my face at 3am and I could not fall asleep until 5am (the time we had to get up). Last day of this tour today. We did not see any towns until we got to Alice Springs! We crossed the boarder “Catle Station” from Western Queensland into Northern Territory … I think. We had to back up a half-hour in time. We stopped at Tobermorey Station for a quick snack. We went through Simpson Desert (the largest in Oz) and stopped to view a 5-meter termite mound!! Lunch was at Jervois Station. We drove for the rest of the afternoon. We arrived in Alice Springs at 7h30pm. I checked in my hostel (Melanka Hostel) and met with the group at Melanka Hostel for diner. I treated myself with a few glasses of wine at diner (mostly because of the minor confusion that was going on about diner). I ate some kangaroo!!!

General thoughts today: missing Simona, Nyala is leaving, going on with Neil and Eric, liked the tour very much and…MY TOE FUCKIN HURTS!!! ;-)

October 17, 2006

Day 1 of my second tour started today with Groovy Grapes (Alice Springs to Adelaide). This morning walked around in Alice Springs with Neil. Then we left with the rest of the group for the tour; Eric is with us. We drove for a couple of hours before stopping at a little farm and experience the performance of Dinky the signing Dingo. When someone would play the piano, he would just start howling! Very funny!!! Then we headed out to King’s Creek where we will have diner and sleep under the stars in our swags…but no campfire.

It is fuckin 4am in the morning. It started to rain outside. I woke up wet so took my stuff under the roof of the kitchen area. I fell asleep under a big thunderstorm!! Was so cool!! I always wanted to do that! Now my sleeping bag is a little wet… Ah well. Since we have to wake up at 6am, I figured there was no point in going back to sleep (especially that my stuff is wet). I met Michelle today. She is from Boston but originally from Toronto.

October 18, 2006

After a short night, we left the camp sight at 6am to go walk Watarrka (King’s Canyon). Very beautiful!! A 4-hour walk/hike and an optional swim in the “Garden of Eden”! It is very exotic! Feels great to move around a bit!! We came back just before the big heat started, had lunch at the campsite then left to get to Uluru (Ayers Rock). We set up camp there and attempted to watch sunset on Ayers Rock with Eric and Neil (the rest followed later)… but was too cloudy. I will try sunrise tomorrow morning.

October 19, 2006

Woke up early this morning to go and see sunrise on Ayers Rock (4h30am). We had breakfast there. However, it was cloudy still, so no sunrise… Then we had an amazing walk on Kata Tjuta and saw the beauty of the Walpa Gorge. We came back just early enough so I could have a run… but I almost had a heat stroke (But, it still felt great to run!! I felt good!). In the afternoon, we visited the Aboriginal Cultural Center. Then we had a brief educational walk along Ayers Rock. Surprising how the history of the Aboriginals is dark.

We made another attempt for sunset on Ayers Rock but no luck.

I am enjoying more my time with Eric, Neil and Michelle. Eric and Neil talked about renting a car from Adelaide to Melbourne and asked if I wanted to tag along. That would be cool!!

October 20, 2006

Beautiful sunny day! We got up at 4h30am again this morning to try to catch sunrise on Ayers Rock. And we got it!!! Gorgeous!!! We had breakfast while admiring the sunrise. Then Eric and Neil climbed Ayers Rock while Michelle and I walked around Ayers Rock entirely (around 10km). The Aboriginals prefer people not to climb it so I decided no too. Anyways, it was windy, steep with hardly anything to hold on too (so I probably would have fallen and died on it or something! My injury records are not great on hikes! I should not say that, it is a bad thing to say.)

We came back to the campsite to pack all our stuff and get moving. We crossed the boarder to come in South Australia (and leave North Australia). We stopped at a little campsite for the night.

October 21, 2006

Finally, we got the chance to wake up at 8pm! I finally had a nice long hot shower and then breaky!! We had just 3 hours of driving before arriving in Coober Pedy. We saw the world’s longest fence (around 4000 km long) – to keep the dingoes in South and sheeps in the North… or something like that). Once in Coober Pedy we had lunch in our underground rooms! Very cool! I think that 70-80% of the town is built under ground. In the afternoon, we had a tour in the Opal Museum and a tour of the city. The town is very famous for its Opal! To build a house underground, it would cost about 20 000$ (all finished!! We can’t even get a field to build at that price at home!!). Later we had the chance to “noodle” for opals ourselves! And I found some!! We had pizza for diner and and evening of star gazing!! That was cool (and the evening was cold too!).

October 22, 2006

Huge day of driving today!! We left Coober Pedy at 6am. We stopped at St-Germain for lunch and saw the longest wooden bridge. We arrived in Adelaide at 5pm where everyone was dropped off at his or her hostels. Neil, Eric and me checked-in the same. Then we went for a walk around town. We are looking to rent a car first thing tomorrow morning.

October 23, 2006

Today was my “to do list” day (hey, must keep some habits going!). Got a good early run in Adelaide; nice hot shower afterwards. While my laundry was being washed, took a quick bite for breaky. Then came check out time. We rented a car to leave at 4pm this afternoon!! Woohoo! We have the car for the next 3 days. Then came time for me to go to the bank, post office… and second up (hey, must have my hot chocolate!). We wandered around in the city in the afternoon. We saw the cricket field, the viewpoint and Botanic Gardens. 4pm came, picked-up the car, did some groceries and left towards Halls Gap (around 5 hours of drive). At the end of our drive, we almost hit a kangaroo!! Therefore, we stopped at the visitor center of the Brambuck National Park and just slept in the car.

Well, feels great to have a car. Much more comfortable then the bus we had! We passed through Victoria today.

October 24, 2006

It is about 7am. I am waiting for the sleepy heads to wake up. Hihi! I am worried we are going to be caught! This is so fun, hihi! We spent the morning in Halls Gap Brambuck National Park. We stopped at the Boroka Lookout (amazing views of chained mountains and lakes!); the Balconies (rocks in the mountain shaped like a balcony) and; went to the bottom of Mackenzie Falls (very pretty!) We had a quick lunch before getting to the Great Ocean Road; we got on it at Peterborough. We stopped alongside to see the London Bridge, the Arch, Bay of Islands, Loch Arch Gorge, Blowhole, Twelve Apostles and more. We went through town of Port Campbell and had diner in Princetown. We are sleeping in the car, in the parking lot of the Twelve Apostles, haha! We plan to see the sunrise on them in the morning.

October 25, 2006

Ok, so we missed the sunrise this morning (because it was pouring rain!) but we still went down the Gibson’s Steps to have a walk by the ocean to the Twelve Apostles. Continuing our journey, we stopped to see the Otway waterfalls, and then stopped at Cape Otway (the Lighthouse). Later, we walked around in a little town called “Marengo”. Afterwards, we stopped at the Sheoak waterfalls. It is currently 1h30pm and it will not be too long before we get to Melbourne. For the rest of the journey to Melbourne, we did not stop that often; one at Bell’s Beach and where there was a bunch of surf stores. We arrived in Melbourne at 5pm. It took us a while to figure out what we wanted to do and where to stay. Finally, we ended up sleeping in the car, one last time. Therefore, we found an all night free parking by the road, outside of the public view (but I still was caught peeing by the tree in the middle of the night…yup, that’s me!) We went walking around town in the evening and saw some possums in a park. So can’t wait to get a shower!!!

October 26, 2006

Woke up early. Since it was our last day with the car, we drove all the East side of Melbourne, all the way to Portsea. We had breakfast by the ocean. When I say “breakfast or breaky” it means a couple of slices of non-toasted bread with nutella or peanut butter.

So we brought the car back at 1pm and walked around the city. We saw Olympic Park, the canal, bridges, St-Patricks Cathedral, Chinatown, the Parliament House, Uni Campus, Art Museum, etc.

Then Eric sneaked in our hostel to take a shower and then we took the bus free City Circle tram to the bus station, where we would see Eric off… I was sad… Saying goodbye sucks!

My flight change to go to Germany has been made/asked for. I am just waiting for the confirmation…

Will be seeing my parents in 9 dodos!! Woohoo!

Finally, I had a hot shower and will sleep in a bed tonight!!! Neil and I checked in World’s International Backpackers (or something like that..) for tonight. I am checked in Nomad’s Hostel for the next 5 nights, starting tomorrow.

October 27, 2006

Interesting day… Woke up late! From a nice, warm sleep in bed! Had a good breaky then went back to bed until checkout at 11am. I called home after my checkout and then went to check in my new hostel… Weird place! Then I went for a run by the canal.

In the afternoon, we walked around. We tried to go to museum and IMAX but changed our minds. Then wanted to go see a movie but representations were late so… changed our minds again. I will have 2 nights on my own at the end of the week so I can do that then.

So, we decided to do the full circle of the City Circle tram to get an idea of where everything is. I tried to get reimbursed for my last 2 nights in Nomad’s Hostel to get to Sydney sooner but no luck; just learned you cannot get reimbursed on accommodation. To be honest, I am a little annoyed by Australia in general, people are rude, and things are excessively expensive… What is the big deal about Australia anyway? Some say it is like Canada… does this mean I am annoyed by my own country? (Well I am for some things, like any other person in their country). Well, scenery is nice in Australia, and the city architecture is very cool! Everyone’s taste is different I guess. Africa and France are still the places to beat. I think traveling it is really about the people you meet!

Oh ya, forgot to mention I went to the Queen Victoria Market. Very cool!! I spotted a brown leather jacket…. It is cheap… but I still should not (probably the only thing that is cheaper). I will see how much I can bargain for it…

October 28, 2006

Good day! Got away with a free breaky this morning at Neil’s hostel. Then came back and had a great run along the canal! So many people were running and rowing and biking and… whatever!

Later I went to Malaysian Airlines to check up on my flight changes… They are not the quickest persons in the world! (In addition, I am so not patient for this!). At 1h30pm I met up with Neil and went walking around the city. Saw the aquarium, Harbour, sailboat, many sculptures, art center, and many other nice buildings. When we came back, I booked my bus ticket to Sydney. In the evening, we went to see a movie… but I forgot the title already…

October 29, 2006

Managed to steal… steal is such a strong word… another breakfast at Neil’s hostel… Then I went for a run. We spent the entire afternoon walking in the Queen Victoria Market. I bought a sweater. I was so sick of freezing all the time! And, yes I bought the freggin leather jacket…haahhhh! But it looks good!! We did some Internet later on. We had nothing planned for the rest of the evening. It’s Sunday so everything closes early… Maybe grab some snacks and watch the football (soccer) game…

October 30, 2006

It’s Mimy’s birthday today!!! Thinking of you!

Started with a good breakfast and some TV. Then I took a walk to Malaysia Airlines… They have to send another request…!!! How freggin complicated can it be to change the flight dates!?? Sheesshhh! I feel like I am turning around in circle… I hate that! Productivity people, be “on the ball”!! (Hey, a little “fast pace Canadian culture” for you! Hihi!). But that’s all good, because my run afterwards was awesome!! I met with Neil later on, went to do some Internet, picture burning and walked around in the city. Neil was leaving today so I went to see him off at the bus station… I am officially alone now. I walked around to admire the nightlife on my way back. Did some “weight training” for my now absent muscles all over!!! And, called it a night! And, that was my day!

October 31, 2006

Ok, must admit, my day was boring. I have seen enough of Melbourne. It is a nice city but a week is just too much. I woke up very late (10pm) and had a quick snack (carrots and crackers… hmmm), then I went for a run. Came back, did some weight training, my laundry and had haircut (well a trim, just to “cure” the split ends!). Then, I treated myself with the most amazing coffee, a latte! I amused myself by composing short story until dinner. I must say some are quite good!

There were no “trick or treaters”, even though it’s Halloween!!

My check out is at 10am tomorrow.

In the evening, I went in the park and made a mini-fire with the matches I had to get ride of before flying somewhere. Ya, I know I am a freak! I just love the smell of it (and the fire too)! In addition, it calms me down somehow.

November 1, 2006

Good day, except for my constant headache all day (I think I am dehydrated…or from not eating very much… or both). I was successful with my flight change. My information will be sent to the office in Sydney so before meeting my parents I can go and pick that up. How much it’s going to cost me still remains a surprise! But, it won’t be much; that I know. So… I’m going to Germany!! Woohoo!!

Walked around, found another park and fell asleep on the grass… had sunburn on half my face…very nice! Then I did a little “snack” shopping for my overnight bus ride to Sydney.

I will be arriving at 7am tomorrow morning in Sydney.

So far, the bus ride is great! I have the two front seats, so plenty of room for my legs and bags, and I can lie down. The TV screen is right in front of me, so that was great when we watched a movie earlier.

November 2, 2006

Strange day. I arrived in Sydney at 7h15am. I decided to walk to the Botanic Gardens since I had the time. It took me 1h and 30min with my 45-pound bag!! It is a nice way to start a day, with a workout! Then I slept in the park, since I did not had a good night sleep in the bus (not as good as I expected anyway). After I woke up, I noticed something had leaked in the upper part of my bag…crap! Luckily, it was just my washing soap, and there was not many in the bottle… but still I had to clean up the mess. I walked for another hour to Darlinghurst Street in KingsCross area where I did 3 hours of free Internet!! And, booked my shuttle to the airport at 7h10pm. Then I could not help myself, I went into the bookstore… Yes, I bought another book!

I found a bench to read. Then this guy with his 6 little dogs comes to sit near by. Ok, fine. I drop pen on the floor and this stupid little shit dog bites my hand before I can even pick up my pen. I yank my hand away in surprise (I thought I had surprised the dog too), gave a look at the guy who didn’t seemed bothered by it. By that time, my hand was bleeding pretty good. Therefore, I decide to leave my pen there, but the little shit comes back and tries to bite me again! He got my pants. I got up and gave a hell of a kick to the dog. I know its mean, and normally I would not do that but freggin hell, I was just trying to pick up my pen! Anyways, so I went to the traveler’s medical clinic and got my wound cleaned and treated; just in case, you never know. By the time that all took place it was time for me to take the shuttle to the airport. I was waiting on the side of the road where the shuttle was suppose to pick me up when this weird very drunken guy comes up to me and wanted to rent a room!! Ya, right, that is exactly what I had on my mind! He was freaking me out, even scaring me, so I walked away where there were more people around. I almost missed the shuttle because of that! Fuckin idiot! For some reason I couldn’t wait to get to the airport! Once at the airport I took a long hot shower and went in the “sleeping area”. Then, there was an security person who was kind enough to find me a room where I could sleep in peace and on a carpet (instead of the floor). He is going to wake me up at 6am tomorrow morning so I do not miss my parents’ arrival (not that I would!).

November 3, 2006

I fell asleep like a baby last night!!

Mom and Dad are here!!!! I had 2 gates to watch at the same time… so ya I kind of missed them coming out!! My mom surprised me from behind hihi! We got the car and took a coffee in the airport while trying to figure out “our plan of attack”.

Dad had to drive standard, on the opposite side, right smack in the middle of Sydney traffic on day one!!! Haha! It is funny now, but it was somewhat stressful then! But, my Dad is the greatest driver so I wasn’t to worry and he did a hell of a good job. I was getting worried on my navigational skills with the map… Usually I’m good with those but then we figured out that Oz has a complete different orientation system then what we’re use too!! So, yes it took us a while to even get out of Sydney!! Eventually we got out. We decided to stop in Newcastle and make it an early night. Everyone was exhausted, especially my parents with a 24-hour flight, time change and hardly no sleep in the past 48 hours! We had a nice diner with wine!! Woohoo!! Then we checked in the hostel across the street! At 9pm, we were all asleep!!! Hihi!

November 4, 2006

Hihi! Woke up early and we had breaky in a little local restaurant in Newcastle. Then we went for a drive around town to have a look at the scenery. It is a town with lots of history I can say that much! Then, we had a 10hr drive to Brisbane! Yurk!… But, it’s ok, we got to chat in the car and catch up on thing. On the way, we stopped to Byron Bay, did some grocery shopping and wine shopping! We arrived in Brisbane at 8h30pm..! We had some difficulties finding accommodation but we found the best one! Formula One; our own room with bathroom, TV, kitchen stuff…and very nice and cheap!! We are staying here tomorrow night as well.

It was rainy today, more like pouring rain! Cross our fingers for the rest of Mom and Dad’s time here!

November 5, 2006

Beautiful sunny day!! We woke up late and had breaky in the room. Then we went walking around town. We finally booked a Great Barrier Reef tour, leaving from Bundaburg; and we booked a 2 day, 1 night tour on Frasier Island leaving from Hervey Bay. We wanted to do the Whitsunday Islands from Airlie Beach but it will not fit in our time frame so…. Another time. Other wise we would be rushing too much and it defeats the purpose of relaxing and enjoying our time. I want to do some hang gliding in the next few days.

We had the entire day in Brisbane today. We walked around, on bridges, in markets, by the river, etc. It is a pretty city!

I think my parents enjoyed their day. Hihi! That makes me happy!

November 6, 2006

We left Brisbane this morning to get to Bundaberg; a little town by the ocean. The locals are more welcoming here (more then all the other places I have been in Australia!). We went to see the Bundaburg Rum Factory!! Woohooo! Got out of there a bit tipsy! Hihi! Then we did some Internet (trying to get hold of my brother) and some groceries. Then we found this amazing little B & B to stay for the next two nights! Seriously, I was impressed with the place! It is secluded but still in the middle of the town; very cozy, warm and beautiful (like a mini-paradise). We had a big heated pool and a BBQ; our kitchen, TV, bathroom in our room; laundry and all utilities where free… The woman that greeted us was so nice!!

Later in the evening, we went to Baggara Beach to watch the sunset. It was the first day of the season where sea turtles come back to shore to make their little nests but we were not that lucky. However, the sunset was amazing! Came back to the room and I went for a run while Mom and Dad had diner.

Amazing temperature today!

Great Barrier Reef here we come!!!… Tomorrow! ;-)

November 7, 2006

Our day started a bit “iffy”… It was cloudy and a little rainy… not promising. But, it turned out absolutely great! The cruise was so cool! While Dad was glowed to the captain to know absolutely everything there is to know about driving that boat, Mom and I enjoyed the dolphins on the side of the boat! Finally, we got to the Great Barrier Reef, had some tea and went snorkeling! Woohoo!! Was so cool to see Mom and Dad enjoy themselves so much! Hihi! The colors of the reef are great; better then all the other places I have been (well, only 2 others: Thailand and Mozambique)! Later we had a little tour on Lady Musgrave Island. The most south point of the GBR where no reptiles or predators live so birds can live freely! We came back for lunch, and then went out snorkeling again. The water level had gone down considerably so the colors where even more bright! We ended the tour with a coral tour on a glass boat, then the ride back to land (almost 3 hours to get back). We saw some sea turtles! On our way back, we almost got caught with too low tide! An extra boat had to come and pick us up to bring us back to shore.

We got back at the hotel at 7pm. I went for a run, did some laundry, then dodos!

November 8, 2006

Relaxing day. We left Bundaburg without a rush at 10am. But, before leaving, we had a look over the town at the Hummock Lookout point. Then we drove to Hervey Bay (around 1 hour drive). We are staying at Palace Backpackers for the night. We walked on the beach in the afternoon, for a good 4 hours! We almost got caught in a big storm on our way back. The entire town went out of electricity for a good 4 hours (if not more). We saw people windsurfing and “wind boarding” (parachute + wind + wakeboard = sounds good to me!!). We spent the evening playing cards and eating chocolate (we couldn’t do much with the pouring rain and no electricity)!

Leaving for Frasier Island tomorrow morning.

November 9, 2006

Left at 7h30am for our tour this morning. We took the ferry from Hervey Bay Harbour to Frasier Island. Once on Frasier Island, our first stop was Basin Lake; a fresh water lake formed on top of a hill from the rain. It was too cold to swim. Driving on these “roads” is crazy. You feel like you are constantly on a roller coaster (well, if you are sitting in the back anyways! Good thing I was buckled up to my seat!!) We visited Central Station and took a rain forest walk. We saw the coolest hugest tree!! They are also named “Cadbury tree”. Hihi, ironic! We also saw vegetation that date back to dinosaur times (the kind, not the actual plant we saw! They are called King ferns and were in the Wanggoolba Creek.). It takes about 6-8 people to circle the trunk of the tree! It takes those trees 250 years to grow 1 meter in diameter! I wish I could live to 250 year too!!

Later we stopped at Lac Mackenzie! Very beautiful! It is apparently filled with “rejuvenating” water… It was too cold to swim and it started to rain… I wish I could have had the chance to swim in it but I would have died of hypothermia! Then we had a snack, drove to our rooms, took shower, and headed to the Dingo Bar for Happy Hour, free pool and diner. And, that was it for the evening.

It was fun to play pool with Mom and Dad!

November 10, 2006

Cool day!! Saw many things! We left after breaky at 8h15am. We first stopped at Eli Creek. Mom and I walked bare foot in it, hihi! Then we experienced the beauty of the colored sands (white = old; red = new) and Red Canyons. Then coolest thing, we stopped to see the Maheno Shipwreck; and the Champagne Pools and climbed the spectacular Indian Head. There was a great view of the ocean and the shore from up there!! Amazing!! I think it is one of the most beautiful scenery I’ve seen in Australia. I love Frasier Island!

We were backed up in our schedule today because of high tide. Apparently it didn’t want to go down (and the winds were crazy!!). However, we did not miss on anything.

At 5pm we took the ferry back to main land, Hervey Bay. Then we checked in a cozy little hotel and I went for the greatest run ever on the beach under a beautiful sky full of stars!! I thought of you Simona.

Then I stored my stuff, had rum and coke on the balcony over looking the sea, and later, watched a movie.

November 11, 2006

Left early this morning. We stopped at Surfers Paradise. We went for some tanning and swimming and then, had lunch. I like Surfers Paradise. I would not mind spending more time here.

In the afternoon, we drove all the way to Coffs Harbour. I had I walk later in the evening with Mom to have a look of the place at night. We will go again tomorrow morning.

November 12, 2006

We took a walk to Coffs Harbour. We enjoyed a good walk up a hill to admire the great view of the Harbour and the ocean!! Then, Sydney here we come… back! We will be staying in Formula One hotel again, on William Street, for the next 3 nights. We arrived in Sydney at 5pm. In the evening, we walked around the Opera House, Circle Quay, the Rocks, and Harbour Bridge to see the nightlife! We were very lucky to catch some fireworks over the Opera House!! It was really nice!! My parent’s faces were priceless! I was so happy! ;-)

November 13, 2006

Mom and Dad almost extended their stay in Australia. We looked into going to Airlie Beach the 3 of us. But just the flight from Sydney to Airlie Beach and back was 800$ per person!! Therefore, that was out of the question, for all of us. Another time. So Mom and Dad are flying back home on the 15^th, and I cross over to New Zealand… well, I have not bought my ticket yet. I will do that tomorrow.

We had a “day walk” this time around Circular Quay, Opera House, Botanic Gardens, Woolloomooloo Bay, and Naval Dockyard. Then we walked around in Potts Point, Woollomooloo and Kings Cross area; did our Internet and grocery shopping. We came back to the hotel and relaxed a bit. Later, we left and walked in Hyde Park, in front of St-Mary’s Cathedral and went up Sydney Tower for the sunset.

November 14, 2006

Started my day with a good run! Then, my goal was to get myself a ticket to get to New Zealand…. I will be arriving in NZ at 1am in the morning tomorrow night… yurk! Tried to find a hostel, everything is fully booked, so I guess I’m sleeping in the airport!!

The rest of our day, we spent walking around in Darling Harbour and went into the Sydney Aquarium. The sharks where just so cool! We went for a last diner the 3 of us in the Harbour; great seafood!! We went back to the hotel for some laundry (for me), packing and relaxing…

It is midnight already… And, I can’t seem to fall asleep…

November 15, 2006

Last breakfast with Mom and Dad this morning… We did some Internet, phone calls and burned the pics on a CD. We decided to head straight for the airport after checkout, since it was close to their boarding time anyway. Once at the airport, they arranged all their “flight stuff” and we walked around in the airport and finally sat down for a coffee. Eventually, time came they had to leave… We all had watery eyes, but we did not cry this time. I promised myself I would not cry… but, I could not even lift my hand to say goodbye when they turned around to say goodbye once more! But I didn’t cry… just later, while I was looking at their plane take-off (I always react later to things!!). I watched it until I could not see it anymore. And, my big feeling of loneliness (but now familiar) came back. I will be seeing them again in a month!! … I have just a month left on my trip… Funny how being alone is probably one of my greatest fears (like everyone else) but yet I’ve felt it and faced it so many times on my trip; one time more strongly then the others… Cannot say I have not grown on this trip, and the best is yet to come!

Just after the plane took off, I called home and got hold of my brother. It felt good to hear his voice and listen to his stories! ;-)

Then, came my time to leave. Then luck struck! On the plane, I met Sandor and he offered me a place to sleep! To be honest I was not sure at first, but I was so tired that I accepted. At that point, I did not care if I slept my entire time in NZ! At least, that will give me time to plan my schedule in NZ tomorrow. Once at Sandor’s home, I met his wife Nicky and little Alek (sorry if I spelt it wrong!!); his so cute!!