06/10/2011 - 10/10/2011
Sydney.
It has everything.
The bridge, the opera house, Manley and Bondi beach, the botanical gardens.
I managed to "waste" 4 days doing nothing except taking in the city.
There's no such thing as waste in travelling as everything is an experience.
I love Sydney so much.
Sunday, 23 March 2014
Melbourne in a day
05/10/2011
I should probably highlight that Melbourne DEFINITELY cannot be done any justice in a day, and had my plans not been scuppered by the weather, I would have had more time to go exploring.
As such, I had very little time, except to do a bit of sight-seeing and go for a nice walk around the city.
Melbourne has so much on offer, with its sports centre, its parks, its cultural epicentre and all its museums.
It is hard to know where to begin, and my exploration was sadly limited to happy snapping of the city to remind me of its beauty.
Lovely place, and I would certainly come back and stop off en route to...maybe New Zealand?!
Penguins and Koalas
04/10/2011
PENGUINS!!!!!!!!!!!
Okay, I got a little excited, but today was all about seeing the fairy penguins.
I first got a bit obsessed with these when I did a project on Australia at school, and discovered these minute little creatures.
I had a nice little lie-in as well today as the tour didn't start till mid-morning.
Our first stop was at a wildlife encounter at Maru Koala and Animal Park, where we had another chance to play with koalas, as well as meet kangaroos, Tasmanian devils and other native
Australian animals. I am so in love with koalas, they are sooo so cute.
Afterwards we continued to San Remo, towards the Phillip Island bridge and onto the Nobbies; rocks where the penguins reside often as well as seals and seabirds.
Unfortunately it is also a bit of a deathtrap for the penguins as they fall victim to the seasbirds in this area...but a spot for fishing also - circle of life.
We then continued on to the Penguin Parade at Summerland Beach, where there is a visitors centre (and expensive tourist shop).
Then it was time. Despite being cold it was so worth it to see these beautiful tiny little penguins, furry their way back home after a busy day of fishing. They are so so so cute.
The Grampians
03/10/2011
This morning everyone was asleep when I left. I was mildly annoyed as I tried to find my way to the station, having hardly got my bearings at all of the area.
I was very much looking forward to the Grampians tour, although the promise of more hiking didn't completely set my world on fire.Our first stop was at Beaufort, a small town where we were given tea and cookies.
I had soon noticed a dramatic change to the scenary, and so very different to that of yesterday, as the area got far more foresty.
The Grampians were home to kangaroos, emus and lots of birds. When we arrived there were kangaroos everywhere...sooo exciting!! They are such lovely creatures.
The first walk was a lovely countryside walk, through the woods, where we also had the opportunity to understand more about the local culture.
After lunch we went on a more challenging hike to the Jaws of Death, with a view of the Mackenzie
Falls. 
I really loved the mist that was setting in, as it created such a different atmosphere to all my previous pictures.Lovely!
The Great Ocean Road
I'm delighted that the rain was shortlived as I embarked on my tour along the Great Ocean Road.
Ron was kind enough to drop me in town for my early morning start for the tour - it was quite a way in meeting at the YHA but just one of those things when you have a freebie in terms of accommodation.
The Great Ocean Road is one of the most spectacular ocean drives, taking in surf coast, and eroded rock against a sandy (and hopefully sunny backdrop).
Along the route we stopped off along some gorgeous sandy beaches to really absorb the scenary. The waves were really stunning, and so different to the North of the country.
Around mid morning we stopped off at a lovely rainforest area (Otway Ranges), where we had a chance to look out for the koalas - naturally very shy, and trying to keep well away from the tourists.
(Clever creatures).
We then continued to the main tourist sights, of the Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge and London Bridge, rock formations that have eroded away from the cliffs.
London Bridge was at one point joined, but collapsed when some unlucky person was walking across it - they had to be rescued by helicopter when the middle fell into the sea.
There are more than twelve apostles, but it is named so, to attract the visitors.I got a bit camera happy, but the landscapes really made it so...such beauty.
Melbourne
01/10/2011
More rain.
The South of the country hasn't been the inviting island that Australia is meant to be so far.
In fact, apparently England is having a heatwave...in October! Crazy!
It was lovely weather to greet my Melbourne visit...I had had every intention of exploring the city, but in this weather one doesn't feel inclined to walk about at all.
I was staying with friends of Madeleine, who were a little strange, and ended up spending the afternoon watching the Aussie rules final, which was a nice cultural opportunity, although I had no idea who they were.
Oh well, it was nice to have my own bedroom as well.
More rain.
The South of the country hasn't been the inviting island that Australia is meant to be so far.
In fact, apparently England is having a heatwave...in October! Crazy!
It was lovely weather to greet my Melbourne visit...I had had every intention of exploring the city, but in this weather one doesn't feel inclined to walk about at all.
I was staying with friends of Madeleine, who were a little strange, and ended up spending the afternoon watching the Aussie rules final, which was a nice cultural opportunity, although I had no idea who they were.
Oh well, it was nice to have my own bedroom as well.
SYDNEY!
29/09/2011
So after yesterday's escapades, today was just a normal, relaxing morning, before travelling to the airport, with a nice straightforward pick-up from relatives and then a lovely chilled out evening.
It was so nice to be in a house again, and felt really strange actually, with Shirley fussing over me, and Ken, being...Ken.
I love Sydney. It is an awesome city. Shame it was so windy and chucking it down with rain :(
30/09/2011
I went off exploring, aside from the fact that yesterday's storm had stopped, I also wanted to take in some of the sights from my previous visit to Sydney.
I didn't get that far, meandering around the city was so fulfilling whilst taking photos of the iconic bridge and opera house, before settling down in the park outside to absorb the scenary.
Wonderful!
So after yesterday's escapades, today was just a normal, relaxing morning, before travelling to the airport, with a nice straightforward pick-up from relatives and then a lovely chilled out evening.
It was so nice to be in a house again, and felt really strange actually, with Shirley fussing over me, and Ken, being...Ken.
I love Sydney. It is an awesome city. Shame it was so windy and chucking it down with rain :(
30/09/2011
I went off exploring, aside from the fact that yesterday's storm had stopped, I also wanted to take in some of the sights from my previous visit to Sydney.
I didn't get that far, meandering around the city was so fulfilling whilst taking photos of the iconic bridge and opera house, before settling down in the park outside to absorb the scenary.
Wonderful!
The Red Centre
26/09/2011 - 28/09/2011
Up ridiculously early, but who cares when you're off to see the big red rock. YEEEEEEEH.
There was just me and this American, Tristan who had done the full 10 days and I was chatting with him about cliques at school, and being a bit ridiculous about this group of princessy girls who got on, highlighting a similarity to a group from my own school experience.
When we stopped for our first respite break, I did a double take.
Turns out that one of them was indeed from the very group I was referring to.
HA! No judgement passed, what a small world. Time does improve people, and Georgie was very nice all trip.
We stopped off at an outback camel farm. Turns out that camels used to be a regular means of transport in the days gone by, as they could survive for ages in the severe heat of the outback.
Can't say I'm much of a fan, they really smell!
From here we travelled further along the dusty road - before we came to a turn...yes for the first time we got to turn off the straight road, having literally gone along one road all the way.
Before getting to Uluru, we checked out a fake Ayers rock, which is a fading rock, and is often mistaken by tourists, as their first glimpse of the rock. haha
Our first destination was not the big lump of red, but actually Kata Tjuta (Mount Olga), an ancient geological formation, with 36 different domes. It was really impressive especially in the mid-afternoon, but it was already very exciting as we headed towards to rock for the sunset.
Uluru was absolutely gorgeous as the sunset, and everyone was there, with picnic bags, champagne etc, depending on the class of your tour. Serious economy didn't quite get champagne, but we still got to see the sun set over the rock, no rain which I guess was what we came for. Pretty stunning.
We settled down for the night in swags again - this time no nets, slightly crazy, but it was really stunning under the stars.
27/09/2011
We were up insanely early for sunrise - it naturally depends on the time of year, but it is worth it, and totally part of the trip.
Today was all about an exploration of Uluru, where we had the opportunity to walk around the base of the rock, gaining an understanding of its history and the importance in culture to the Mala tribe.
The wall paintings were incredible, and the rock is a lot bigger than could be realised when first glancing at it.
There was also the opportunity to climb the rock, which I declined. To the Aborigines it is their altar, their Vatican and is so sacred to them. Whilst I appreciate the income the rock climbing brings to the Australian tourist board, no-one would dream of abseiling down the Vatican.
There's also a really fascinating museum, although the videos were a little too graphic for my taste, and a number of us were dosing off by this stage having had the early start this morning.
28/09/2011
I really like the red centre, because although there is a lot of red rock, it's all so very differently formed, and amazingly there are oasis' in the middle of the barren landscapes.
Kings Canyon is an example of this, with its stunning Garden of Eden, as well as extraordinary walls and scapes. The steps up to the canyon were impossible to climb in the heat but the views so worth it, and the hike definitely easier than some of the others on my trip.
We settled at a nearby picnic place for lunch, before getting ready to make our way back to Alice...
Except there was a hitch.
There had been a nearby bush fire, which had closed the main road out of Uluru. We were absolutely stuck, and stuck until the fire completely died out. Possibly for days, even a week.
I was panicking as I had a flight to catch to make Sydney and later connections, others had other connections - Tristan didn't even have insurance (silly billy).
After further discussions, it emerged that there was an off road track, which other companies were using, but their vehicles had 4 x 4 wheels, ours did not, silly economy basic.
We were definitely stuck and screwed.
Tristan suggested the idea of hitchiking, and a number of others thought the idea was a very sensible one. Sometimes in the face of adversity, we make very rash decisions, and this has to be up there with the very best of them.
However, the longer we tried to hitch, the greater our chance of staying put was. Why would anyone want to drive through the outback in the circumstances?
Someone did...but then the fee they were going to charge was outrageous.
Thankfully, we declined it, which is a relief because their car did NOT look like it would make it through the outback, or even on a main road.
When we thought all hope was gone, our knight in shining armour pulled up at the garage. A father with a family who had their holiday there, so would be staying put regardless.
He did 4 x 4ing for a hobby, had a very sensible car, and well, was a family man.
It was an irresistable offer...but by night?
I cannot believe his kindness, especially as he was the one who had to drive back alone.
It was a scary scary drive, but we made it. Back to Alice, back to the YHA.
I just pray that he got back to Uluru safely too. Thank you Lord.
Up ridiculously early, but who cares when you're off to see the big red rock. YEEEEEEEH.
There was just me and this American, Tristan who had done the full 10 days and I was chatting with him about cliques at school, and being a bit ridiculous about this group of princessy girls who got on, highlighting a similarity to a group from my own school experience.
When we stopped for our first respite break, I did a double take.
Turns out that one of them was indeed from the very group I was referring to.HA! No judgement passed, what a small world. Time does improve people, and Georgie was very nice all trip.
We stopped off at an outback camel farm. Turns out that camels used to be a regular means of transport in the days gone by, as they could survive for ages in the severe heat of the outback.
Can't say I'm much of a fan, they really smell!
From here we travelled further along the dusty road - before we came to a turn...yes for the first time we got to turn off the straight road, having literally gone along one road all the way.
Before getting to Uluru, we checked out a fake Ayers rock, which is a fading rock, and is often mistaken by tourists, as their first glimpse of the rock. haha
Our first destination was not the big lump of red, but actually Kata Tjuta (Mount Olga), an ancient geological formation, with 36 different domes. It was really impressive especially in the mid-afternoon, but it was already very exciting as we headed towards to rock for the sunset.Uluru was absolutely gorgeous as the sunset, and everyone was there, with picnic bags, champagne etc, depending on the class of your tour. Serious economy didn't quite get champagne, but we still got to see the sun set over the rock, no rain which I guess was what we came for. Pretty stunning.
We settled down for the night in swags again - this time no nets, slightly crazy, but it was really stunning under the stars.
27/09/2011
We were up insanely early for sunrise - it naturally depends on the time of year, but it is worth it, and totally part of the trip.
Today was all about an exploration of Uluru, where we had the opportunity to walk around the base of the rock, gaining an understanding of its history and the importance in culture to the Mala tribe.
The wall paintings were incredible, and the rock is a lot bigger than could be realised when first glancing at it.
There was also the opportunity to climb the rock, which I declined. To the Aborigines it is their altar, their Vatican and is so sacred to them. Whilst I appreciate the income the rock climbing brings to the Australian tourist board, no-one would dream of abseiling down the Vatican.
There's also a really fascinating museum, although the videos were a little too graphic for my taste, and a number of us were dosing off by this stage having had the early start this morning.
28/09/2011
I really like the red centre, because although there is a lot of red rock, it's all so very differently formed, and amazingly there are oasis' in the middle of the barren landscapes.Kings Canyon is an example of this, with its stunning Garden of Eden, as well as extraordinary walls and scapes. The steps up to the canyon were impossible to climb in the heat but the views so worth it, and the hike definitely easier than some of the others on my trip.
We settled at a nearby picnic place for lunch, before getting ready to make our way back to Alice...
Except there was a hitch.
There had been a nearby bush fire, which had closed the main road out of Uluru. We were absolutely stuck, and stuck until the fire completely died out. Possibly for days, even a week.
I was panicking as I had a flight to catch to make Sydney and later connections, others had other connections - Tristan didn't even have insurance (silly billy).
After further discussions, it emerged that there was an off road track, which other companies were using, but their vehicles had 4 x 4 wheels, ours did not, silly economy basic.
We were definitely stuck and screwed.
Tristan suggested the idea of hitchiking, and a number of others thought the idea was a very sensible one. Sometimes in the face of adversity, we make very rash decisions, and this has to be up there with the very best of them.However, the longer we tried to hitch, the greater our chance of staying put was. Why would anyone want to drive through the outback in the circumstances?
Someone did...but then the fee they were going to charge was outrageous.
Thankfully, we declined it, which is a relief because their car did NOT look like it would make it through the outback, or even on a main road.
When we thought all hope was gone, our knight in shining armour pulled up at the garage. A father with a family who had their holiday there, so would be staying put regardless.He did 4 x 4ing for a hobby, had a very sensible car, and well, was a family man.
It was an irresistable offer...but by night?
I cannot believe his kindness, especially as he was the one who had to drive back alone.
It was a scary scary drive, but we made it. Back to Alice, back to the YHA.
I just pray that he got back to Uluru safely too. Thank you Lord.
Katherine, Devils Marbles and a long road to Alice
23/09/2011 - 25/09/2011
Up very very VERY early this morning, but at least it was a final goodbye to Darwin.
The minibus driver had a brilliant sense of humour, even at this ungodly hour and his first point was to highlight that between here and Alice was nothingness, except one straight road and to make it a lot more fun we could make it into one long pub crawl.
He had a point.
Our first stop was quite a way in, at Nitmiluk National Park at the Edith Falls, a serene area used for respite during WW2 for injured soliders. There was definitely no danger of crocs, but there was a fear of being crapped on by bats. It was a lovely area to swim in, before we headed off to the Katherine Gorge.
Katherine was enormous, and we had the opportunity to Kayak - a lot harder than you'd have thought. I've rowed before, but Kayaking is much harder, especially when you're bricking it about the crocs in the water. The scenary was stunning, and we were able to walk around the park afterwards making friends with the wallabies :)
We made our way onwards to Daly Waters, the oldest pub in the territory where we stopped over for the night at a local camping spot (fortunately in huts this time!)...although our guide kept giving us horror stories of treachorous spiders. Sleep well.
24/09/2011
I was really looking forward to today - exploring the Devils Marbles.
First stop was at the Tennant Creek telegraph station to take in what was once all the range in technology. How things progress.
We then made our way to the Karlu Karlu or Devils Marbles - marble shaped boulders, one of the oldest religious sites in the world, as well as a natural landmark.
The Devils Marbles are large granite boulders that form the exposed top layer of an extensive and mostly underground granite formation. The natural processes of weathering and erosion have created the various shapes of the boulders.
The site is epic - it's amazing just what the weather can do in literally the middle of no-where.
We passed the Tropic of Capricorn, getting the optional selfie before making our way to Alice Springs. Cool guide got us all to take a group photo in front of the Alice Springs sign, and then a rude version.
25/09/2011
We had a free day in Alice to explore, which was all a bit unnecessary as there really isn't that much to see, but it was nice to have a bit of time to re-cooperate.
So can't wait for the rock!
Up very very VERY early this morning, but at least it was a final goodbye to Darwin.
The minibus driver had a brilliant sense of humour, even at this ungodly hour and his first point was to highlight that between here and Alice was nothingness, except one straight road and to make it a lot more fun we could make it into one long pub crawl.He had a point.
Our first stop was quite a way in, at Nitmiluk National Park at the Edith Falls, a serene area used for respite during WW2 for injured soliders. There was definitely no danger of crocs, but there was a fear of being crapped on by bats. It was a lovely area to swim in, before we headed off to the Katherine Gorge.
Katherine was enormous, and we had the opportunity to Kayak - a lot harder than you'd have thought. I've rowed before, but Kayaking is much harder, especially when you're bricking it about the crocs in the water. The scenary was stunning, and we were able to walk around the park afterwards making friends with the wallabies :)We made our way onwards to Daly Waters, the oldest pub in the territory where we stopped over for the night at a local camping spot (fortunately in huts this time!)...although our guide kept giving us horror stories of treachorous spiders. Sleep well. 24/09/2011
I was really looking forward to today - exploring the Devils Marbles.
First stop was at the Tennant Creek telegraph station to take in what was once all the range in technology. How things progress.
We then made our way to the Karlu Karlu or Devils Marbles - marble shaped boulders, one of the oldest religious sites in the world, as well as a natural landmark.The Devils Marbles are large granite boulders that form the exposed top layer of an extensive and mostly underground granite formation. The natural processes of weathering and erosion have created the various shapes of the boulders.The site is epic - it's amazing just what the weather can do in literally the middle of no-where.
We passed the Tropic of Capricorn, getting the optional selfie before making our way to Alice Springs. Cool guide got us all to take a group photo in front of the Alice Springs sign, and then a rude version.
25/09/2011
We had a free day in Alice to explore, which was all a bit unnecessary as there really isn't that much to see, but it was nice to have a bit of time to re-cooperate.
So can't wait for the rock!
Thursday, 20 March 2014
Kakadu National Park
19/09/2011 - 21/09/2011
When we say early starts, this was unbelievably early, waking up at 4am. Eeeek.
I first of all had difficulty getting out the gate with the security on there - clearly someone had forgotten that I was going on the tour this morning.
Having woken up nice and early, there was no sign of the bus. Surprise surprise.
I had a weird sense of being in Africa again, although slightly bemused because this is Australia and NOT Africa and I felt that whatever problem the Aussies should be able to cope.
They did rock up, about an hour late. I wasn't convinced about whether they had or hadn't forgotten me, but at least they were here.
After a spot of breakfast, we were on route to the beautiful Litchfield National Park to visit the stunning waterfalls there. On arrival we met with the traditional landowners to understand a bit about the Aboriginal culture, with a talk on bush tucker, basket weaving and spear throwing. We also had the opportunity to try the didgeridoo.
There was quite a bit of a hike up to the waterfall but the view was well worth it when we finally got there. Absolutely stunning...but so so hot!!
The rock faces were so red and almost a mirror of the Grand Canyon.
Afterwards we headed towards Mary River Wetlands for a boat trip to see the birdlife and other animals such as crocs.
As night began to draw we headed to our campsite, when we realised that not only would we not be sleeping under canvass but literally under just a mozzie net. Not exactly the safest precaution against the Aussie wildlife.
Slightly scary, although very pictoresque against all the stars that night. Hello outback.
20/09/2011
After a short drive, we reached Kakadu National Park, World Heritage listed for its
beautiful natural features and for beingthe centre of the world's oldest
living culture. The park has some stunning aboriginal rock art which we got to view en route, but the highlight was definitely the views over the Nardab floodplain. Less fun was perhaps getting there, as it was a bit of an extreme hike, and my ability to clamber over rocks in the extreme heat was certainly declining steadily.
Afterwards we headed for the Barramundi Gorge for yet another hike, before a chance to swim in the plunge pools. This would have been great if we weren't so terrified of the potential crocs there.
We all survived thankfully and no broken bones.
21/09/2011
Today was about more hiking as we made our way to Jim Jim
Falls, which is meant to be the highlight of Kakadu. Again the hiking is worth it for the stunning views.
The falls look onto the gorge, which even in this part of the year are pretty intense.
The only downside was that we were now on the way BACK to Darwin (stopping to see some termite mounds in the middle of the outback).
At least we wouldn't be in Darwin for too much longer.
When we say early starts, this was unbelievably early, waking up at 4am. Eeeek.
I first of all had difficulty getting out the gate with the security on there - clearly someone had forgotten that I was going on the tour this morning.
Having woken up nice and early, there was no sign of the bus. Surprise surprise.
I had a weird sense of being in Africa again, although slightly bemused because this is Australia and NOT Africa and I felt that whatever problem the Aussies should be able to cope.
They did rock up, about an hour late. I wasn't convinced about whether they had or hadn't forgotten me, but at least they were here.
After a spot of breakfast, we were on route to the beautiful Litchfield National Park to visit the stunning waterfalls there. On arrival we met with the traditional landowners to understand a bit about the Aboriginal culture, with a talk on bush tucker, basket weaving and spear throwing. We also had the opportunity to try the didgeridoo.
There was quite a bit of a hike up to the waterfall but the view was well worth it when we finally got there. Absolutely stunning...but so so hot!!The rock faces were so red and almost a mirror of the Grand Canyon.
Afterwards we headed towards Mary River Wetlands for a boat trip to see the birdlife and other animals such as crocs.
As night began to draw we headed to our campsite, when we realised that not only would we not be sleeping under canvass but literally under just a mozzie net. Not exactly the safest precaution against the Aussie wildlife.
Slightly scary, although very pictoresque against all the stars that night. Hello outback.
20/09/2011
After a short drive, we reached Kakadu National Park, World Heritage listed for its
beautiful natural features and for beingthe centre of the world's oldest
living culture. The park has some stunning aboriginal rock art which we got to view en route, but the highlight was definitely the views over the Nardab floodplain. Less fun was perhaps getting there, as it was a bit of an extreme hike, and my ability to clamber over rocks in the extreme heat was certainly declining steadily.Afterwards we headed for the Barramundi Gorge for yet another hike, before a chance to swim in the plunge pools. This would have been great if we weren't so terrified of the potential crocs there.
We all survived thankfully and no broken bones.
21/09/2011
Today was about more hiking as we made our way to Jim Jim
Falls, which is meant to be the highlight of Kakadu. Again the hiking is worth it for the stunning views.The falls look onto the gorge, which even in this part of the year are pretty intense.
The only downside was that we were now on the way BACK to Darwin (stopping to see some termite mounds in the middle of the outback).
At least we wouldn't be in Darwin for too much longer.
Darwin
16/09/2011
Darwin is really boring.
They say Canberra is a place of nothingness - I've not yet been to Canberra, but Darwin there is literally nothing to do.
There are no beaches, and where there are, you can't go because of crocs.
I arrived in the early hours of the morning 4.20am to be precise, and started having kittens about getting my purchases from Tanzania through the strict Aussie customs.
I needn't have worried, as everyone was completely asleep that I could have sifted anything in.
Conveniently there was a shuttle bus to the hostels, although very expensive, but I conclude, much cheaper than getting a taxi.
I was looking forward to getting to the hostel, because like anywhere getting there at this time would be hilarious.
Luckily there was someone awake to open up, although the "show me to my room bit" was definitely not part of the service.
Very laid back.
I actually had a dorm to myself which was nice although the fan was not working and it was VERY warm.
I slept a lot during the day - kind of expected given the circumstances.
The benefits to the hostel was that it firstly had a pool and secondly was very central.
I was able to walk to the shops very quickly, find food etc.
OMG the icecream. So much choice.
My downfall.
Other than that. Darwin...far too long in Darwin.
I did however spend a nice relaxing evening on Sunday 18th, the night before my tour was due to start watching the sunset over the beach, after experiencing the northern territory festival.
So glad to be on the move.
Darwin is really boring.
They say Canberra is a place of nothingness - I've not yet been to Canberra, but Darwin there is literally nothing to do.There are no beaches, and where there are, you can't go because of crocs.
I arrived in the early hours of the morning 4.20am to be precise, and started having kittens about getting my purchases from Tanzania through the strict Aussie customs.
I needn't have worried, as everyone was completely asleep that I could have sifted anything in.
Conveniently there was a shuttle bus to the hostels, although very expensive, but I conclude, much cheaper than getting a taxi.
I was looking forward to getting to the hostel, because like anywhere getting there at this time would be hilarious.
Luckily there was someone awake to open up, although the "show me to my room bit" was definitely not part of the service.
Very laid back.
I actually had a dorm to myself which was nice although the fan was not working and it was VERY warm.
I slept a lot during the day - kind of expected given the circumstances.
The benefits to the hostel was that it firstly had a pool and secondly was very central.
I was able to walk to the shops very quickly, find food etc.
OMG the icecream. So much choice.My downfall.
Other than that. Darwin...far too long in Darwin.
I did however spend a nice relaxing evening on Sunday 18th, the night before my tour was due to start watching the sunset over the beach, after experiencing the northern territory festival.So glad to be on the move.
Sunday, 16 March 2014
Shopping and the Middle Eastern Quarter
15/09/2011
So, I probably spent one day too long in
Singapore - or too short a time (because I wanted to explore further
afield, but didn't have enough time) so had a bit of time to kill before
my late night flight.I went off visiting the Middle Eastern and Bohemian quarter which was more for pretty photos, before walking round to settle down by one of the beaches for the afternoon.
I had fun exploring the shops, and Raffles where that famous day in 2007 occured. LONDON 2012!Such a relaxing day, but so sad to be leaving Singapore.
Off to Australia!
China Town and lots of Parks
14/09/2011
Still no sleep...seriously, what are these people like!
Today was China exploration day, as I went off exploring the Chinese quarter of Singapore.
China Town was full of wonderful little markets, jewellery, and of course more temples.
It had so many lanterns and was a beautiful corner. I did however stop back at the Indian quarter for food, as I'm not such a fan of Chinese food. Sorry!
I found the most gorgeous bracelet as well!
Still no sleep...seriously, what are these people like!Today was China exploration day, as I went off exploring the Chinese quarter of Singapore.
China Town was full of wonderful little markets, jewellery, and of course more temples.
It had so many lanterns and was a beautiful corner. I did however stop back at the Indian quarter for food, as I'm not such a fan of Chinese food. Sorry!
I found the most gorgeous bracelet as well!
Hippo in the room and a Singapore Sling
13/09/2011
Today was where I was to do most of my exploring.
Except I didn't, because there was a hippo in the room.
Well, not really, an enormous human being exhaling so loudly he/she might as well have been an animal.
It was impossible to sleep that night, and I wasn't the only one having difficulties.
It was, however a great way to bond with other room mates, so we all sat about chatting hoping they'd wake up.
Earplugs didn't work, iphone with music didn't work. Nothing worked.
So, I had a lie-in because I needed it.
I went on a walk to the river, and to visit the Parliament buildings.
The great thing about Singapore is you can walk everywhere, and so I did, taking in everything all the way.
As I walked I noticed railings being placed up.
As I did further investigating, I realised this was for the Singapore Grand Prix - street circuit...night race.
Oh if only I was here for this. But it was exciting to see all the buzz as they were setting up.
I
walked down by Marina Bay which was absolutely gorgeous in the sun, and
followed the river round, sitting down for a Singapore Sling at one of
the Cafes on the river.
This is the life.
Today was where I was to do most of my exploring.Except I didn't, because there was a hippo in the room.
Well, not really, an enormous human being exhaling so loudly he/she might as well have been an animal.
It was impossible to sleep that night, and I wasn't the only one having difficulties.It was, however a great way to bond with other room mates, so we all sat about chatting hoping they'd wake up.
Earplugs didn't work, iphone with music didn't work. Nothing worked.
So, I had a lie-in because I needed it.
I went on a walk to the river, and to visit the Parliament buildings.The great thing about Singapore is you can walk everywhere, and so I did, taking in everything all the way.
As I walked I noticed railings being placed up.
As I did further investigating, I realised this was for the Singapore Grand Prix - street circuit...night race.Oh if only I was here for this. But it was exciting to see all the buzz as they were setting up.
I
walked down by Marina Bay which was absolutely gorgeous in the sun, and
followed the river round, sitting down for a Singapore Sling at one of
the Cafes on the river.This is the life.
Singapore - Getting my bearings
12/09/2011
Today was all about taking it easy.
And then getting lost.
And then taking it easy again.
The aim for today was to meander around the Indian quarter of Singapore, taking in the temples and sampling the Indian cuisine. That seemed logical as that was the closest to where I was staying.
After a leisurely breakfast (included at the hostel). I examined the map and tried to ascertain where I would be going.
Less easy. Apparently my sense of direction is appalling.
I did discover a beautiful temple along the street that I would never have otherwise found, and some lovely shops.
I also stumbled across a wonderful Indian restaurant, so getting lost is possibly not the worst thing in the world.
When it rains in Singapore it chucks it down. I should know from the Grand Prix, and at that point I decided it would be useful to run for shelter like everyone else had done.
I found my way back to the hostel and re-planned my temple route which had been pretty unsuccessful so far, and figured out where I'd been going wrong.
The afternoon was a lot more productive and now that I'd got my bearings.
Today was all about taking it easy.
And then getting lost.
And then taking it easy again.
The aim for today was to meander around the Indian quarter of Singapore, taking in the temples and sampling the Indian cuisine. That seemed logical as that was the closest to where I was staying.
After a leisurely breakfast (included at the hostel). I examined the map and tried to ascertain where I would be going.
Less easy. Apparently my sense of direction is appalling.
I did discover a beautiful temple along the street that I would never have otherwise found, and some lovely shops.
I also stumbled across a wonderful Indian restaurant, so getting lost is possibly not the worst thing in the world.When it rains in Singapore it chucks it down. I should know from the Grand Prix, and at that point I decided it would be useful to run for shelter like everyone else had done.
I found my way back to the hostel and re-planned my temple route which had been pretty unsuccessful so far, and figured out where I'd been going wrong.
The afternoon was a lot more productive and now that I'd got my bearings.
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