Well, first part of the tour is over. I have a few days in Alica Springs by myself before heading up to Darwin via Kakadu NP and Litchfield NP. That should be excellent!
A lot has happened in the past week. The tour started off well. Our first night was in Quorn, which is just on the edge of the Flinder ranges. We spent two days there, and a lot of time climbing. I climbed Dutchman's Stern (that was a tough first walk after a long period of relative inactivity) but was great. It was raining and overcast so I couldn't see the ranges but it was still worth it to stand at the top in gale force winds and feel like I accomplished something. The next day we went to Wilpena Pound. I loved that because the walk was gradual and so green. As I said before, South Australia is the driest state but I sure hadn't seen that. It was lovely. Our Aussie BBQ was great: kangaroo steaks, emu rissoles and camel sausages... so delicious!
But then we got into the driving... early mornings and hours on the road. We drove up to Coober Pedy, one of the places I was very excited about. I knew it would look post-apocalyptic but it wasn't exactly what I thought. The homes are dug into the side of hills so that was cool. But other than that, there was nothing really important. I did get the opportunity to go noodling for opal... and I found some! Well, it was potch which is worthless but I can still say I found opal in Coober Pedy! One night was enough though: the next day we headed up to Uluru.
Now, this was going to be the best part of the tour (in my eyes) and to be honest, I was really disappointed. First stop was Kata Kjuta (the Olgas) which were really cool. It was just a short walk but nice after 8 hours driving. Then we headed over to Uluru for sunset. It wasn't as vibrant as I had thought. But it was still pretty. And I was happy I got to see that. The next day was the crucial one. As I mentioned earlier, I intended to climb Uluru. So we drove out for sunrise, but there were too many clouds so it didn't glow orange/red. That was disappointing... my only chance to see sunrise. Then I found out that the climb was closed due to winds. The one thing I have wanted to do for years (ever since I decided I wanted to go to Australia) and I didn't get to do it. I did do the base walk (just over 9 km) which was alright but not what I had geared up for. And then I was crushed because just as we were leaving the park, I saw people climbing... they had opened it back up. So disappointed.
As we were leaving, the tour guide made a few stops to go witchetty grubbing. I also wanted to eat bush tucker (or witchetty grubs). But with my luck, we didn't find any. That just added to the disappointment of the day. So we drove out to Kings canyon.
Kings canyon was beautiful. More diverse and interesting than Uluru (at least I think). Again, we did a long walk in 35+ weather... really tough work. But the views were worth it. So I was felling a little better about the tour... but just a little. Back in Alice Springs, we went out for dinner as a "group" but quickly separated. One of the things that made this leg of the tour upsetting was the group dynamics. There were no introductions made at the beginning and very quickly, there was a clique formed. So throughout the tour, there were some that were excluded (myself included). Unfortunately, the tour guide was part of the clique which made it difficult for her to act as the person in charge. So our night sleeping in the Outback at Uluru turned into the worst night ever. I have never been with a group that was so self-absorbed and disrespectful to their fellow travellers. Needless to say, I got very little sleep due to their drunken revelry and stupidity.
Man, as I read what I have just typed, I make it sound like I am having an awful time, which isn't the case. I have enjoyed the fact that I am able to see the outback for what it is. It is an unforgiving landscape, yet so beautiful and powerful. The colour of the sand alone is so exciting... I have loved our walks throughout the tour. In total, we have covered 3000 km driving, and I have walked at least 60 km... up mountains!!
I am really looking forward to the next phase of the tour (minus a few of the idiots from tour one).
So, in Alice, I am enjoying a few days of quiet. Sleeping in... washing laundry... shopping. Today, I went to a free lesson on the didgeredoo and managed to get the sound! I was so excited and loved the feeling so much that I bought myself one... yes, I now own a beautiful authentic didge. You can replicate the sound in a PVC tube but the fact that mine was hollowed out by termites... oh, I am so excited! I feel like an Aussie: I have my didge and my boomerang :)
So, everything is well with me. Not everything has gone according to plans but I am happy that I am here and have been able to travel through the never never.
Gone walkabout.
Lisa
Monday, September 21, 2009
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Gone walk-about
G'day everyone! I am in Quorn, SA on the tour up to Darwin. I only have a few minutes of internet in the Library but I just wanted to check in and let everyone know that I am having a wonderful time.
I had a blast on the tour to Kangaroo Island: I saw so many animals (koala, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, black tiger snake, birds, dolphins, sea lions, seals... it was incredible. We climbed hills, went sand surfing (or tried!), drove across the island and saw the diverse landscapes. It was incredible to see the regrowth after the major fire 18 months ago in the south... and the green hills in the north (looked like Ireland). I completely enjoyed myself... great people and amazing island. For those in Australia: go to Adelaide and do the Surf & Sun KI tour... it's brilliant!
But now I am on my way up north. We started in Adelaide (very early in the morning) and drove up to the Flinders Ranges. It is incredible: South Australia is the driest state in Australia and all I have seen is green. I definately chose the right time of year to come... before it gets hot and dries up! We have done a lot of walking (climbing hills, checking out caves, climbing more hills) and a lot of driving. Yesterday was Dutchman Stern hill (in the rain) and today was Wilpena Pound. Incredible views... exhausting though. Tomorrow, we leave at 5.30am for the long drive to Coober Pedy. I am so excited... I have heard it is a bizarre place. Post-apocalyptic lokking. Cool. Then, off to Uluru. I plan on climbing the Rock, I know, there is a lot of talk about whether that is a good idea. Aboriginals say it is a sacred place and they do not want people on it. The government, when they gave it back to the Aboriginals included in the contract that they allow people to climb it. Some people say they wouldn't climb a church so why would we climb a sacred site. But I remember climbing St Peter's Basilica, the most famous church and centre of Catholicism. So, don't judge me. I'll tell you all about the climb and the amazing views.
Anyways, I'm not sure what internet access I will have for the next few weeks.
Gone walk-about.
Love, Lisa
I had a blast on the tour to Kangaroo Island: I saw so many animals (koala, kangaroos, wallabies, echidnas, black tiger snake, birds, dolphins, sea lions, seals... it was incredible. We climbed hills, went sand surfing (or tried!), drove across the island and saw the diverse landscapes. It was incredible to see the regrowth after the major fire 18 months ago in the south... and the green hills in the north (looked like Ireland). I completely enjoyed myself... great people and amazing island. For those in Australia: go to Adelaide and do the Surf & Sun KI tour... it's brilliant!
But now I am on my way up north. We started in Adelaide (very early in the morning) and drove up to the Flinders Ranges. It is incredible: South Australia is the driest state in Australia and all I have seen is green. I definately chose the right time of year to come... before it gets hot and dries up! We have done a lot of walking (climbing hills, checking out caves, climbing more hills) and a lot of driving. Yesterday was Dutchman Stern hill (in the rain) and today was Wilpena Pound. Incredible views... exhausting though. Tomorrow, we leave at 5.30am for the long drive to Coober Pedy. I am so excited... I have heard it is a bizarre place. Post-apocalyptic lokking. Cool. Then, off to Uluru. I plan on climbing the Rock, I know, there is a lot of talk about whether that is a good idea. Aboriginals say it is a sacred place and they do not want people on it. The government, when they gave it back to the Aboriginals included in the contract that they allow people to climb it. Some people say they wouldn't climb a church so why would we climb a sacred site. But I remember climbing St Peter's Basilica, the most famous church and centre of Catholicism. So, don't judge me. I'll tell you all about the climb and the amazing views.
Anyways, I'm not sure what internet access I will have for the next few weeks.
Gone walk-about.
Love, Lisa
Sunday, September 13, 2009
And the tours begin...
G'day everyone! I am back from camping and ready to move on to the next place.
To pick up from where I left off, I had a great day in Adelaide. I started with a tour of the Botanic Gardens which was interesting: the fauna here is much different from home so it is nice to see gum trees and such. Then, I went to Tandanya, an aboriginal art gallery. There was a didgeridoo performance and the man taught the group a little bit about the culture and history of the Aborigines, and then demonstrated how to play the yidaka (didgeridoo in the native term). I'm hoping to get a chance to try: it is similar to the trumpet (which I learned when I was younger) but the hardest part is mastering circular breathing. But I will try anything! From the gallery, I walked through the CBD (or downtown) and made my way to the South Australian Museum, which houses one of the best collections of Aboriginal artefacts in the country. It was so interesting and beautiful. It made me very excited to travel into the centre and into the Top End. I also checked out the Art Gallery before heading to the Festival Centre to see a play. If I have the opportunity to see a cultural performance when travelling, I always try to go. It was interesting... I even followed along with the accents and slang!
The next day, Helen Roger and I left Adelaide for bush camping along the Murray River. It was a long drive but we passed through the changes in scenery from the Adelaide Hills to the barren landscape to the Riverland which has desert and lush vegetation. Very cool! We camped in Katarapko National Park and were right on the river's edge. It was perfect for bird watching: pelicans, commorants, ducks, and I even saw a kookaburra! It was a beautiful few days of rest and relaxation along with great food and excellent wines! I slept in a tent and unfortunately woke every morning to the awful sound of the crows! But it was so beautiful, I couldn't be upset. We did venture into Loxton to the Historical Village and the Farmer's Market in Berri, but it was all about enjoying the scenery and the quiet.
So yesterday we returned to Adelaide, washed up and got ready for the footy match. Adelaide Crows made it to the quarter-finals in the Aussie Rules Finals - this is a big thing over here. The game was a fast paced match against Collingwood Magpies but the Crows lost. Now they are out. I remained neutral (I really don't know much about Aussie Rules so I thought I would just enjoy it without choosing sides).
Today was a great day: I did absolutely nothing! Well, that's a bit of a lie. I chatted with friends and family, I made arrangements for the next few days, and I am trying to get all my papers and luggage sorted. The only down side to moving on is the packing! And I don't even have a lot! But I have had a great time in Adelaide: I have seen so much and really enjoyed the company of Roger and Helen - thanks!
Tomorrow, I leave at 6.00am (!) to join the 2-day tour to Kangaroo Island. KI is known for it's unspoilt habitat, perfect for wildlife spotting. I am excited to be going there - and the weather should be great.
Hopefully, I can post before leaving for the centre of Oz. As my uncle said: "Gone walk-a-about"
Love, Lisa
To pick up from where I left off, I had a great day in Adelaide. I started with a tour of the Botanic Gardens which was interesting: the fauna here is much different from home so it is nice to see gum trees and such. Then, I went to Tandanya, an aboriginal art gallery. There was a didgeridoo performance and the man taught the group a little bit about the culture and history of the Aborigines, and then demonstrated how to play the yidaka (didgeridoo in the native term). I'm hoping to get a chance to try: it is similar to the trumpet (which I learned when I was younger) but the hardest part is mastering circular breathing. But I will try anything! From the gallery, I walked through the CBD (or downtown) and made my way to the South Australian Museum, which houses one of the best collections of Aboriginal artefacts in the country. It was so interesting and beautiful. It made me very excited to travel into the centre and into the Top End. I also checked out the Art Gallery before heading to the Festival Centre to see a play. If I have the opportunity to see a cultural performance when travelling, I always try to go. It was interesting... I even followed along with the accents and slang!
The next day, Helen Roger and I left Adelaide for bush camping along the Murray River. It was a long drive but we passed through the changes in scenery from the Adelaide Hills to the barren landscape to the Riverland which has desert and lush vegetation. Very cool! We camped in Katarapko National Park and were right on the river's edge. It was perfect for bird watching: pelicans, commorants, ducks, and I even saw a kookaburra! It was a beautiful few days of rest and relaxation along with great food and excellent wines! I slept in a tent and unfortunately woke every morning to the awful sound of the crows! But it was so beautiful, I couldn't be upset. We did venture into Loxton to the Historical Village and the Farmer's Market in Berri, but it was all about enjoying the scenery and the quiet.
So yesterday we returned to Adelaide, washed up and got ready for the footy match. Adelaide Crows made it to the quarter-finals in the Aussie Rules Finals - this is a big thing over here. The game was a fast paced match against Collingwood Magpies but the Crows lost. Now they are out. I remained neutral (I really don't know much about Aussie Rules so I thought I would just enjoy it without choosing sides).
Today was a great day: I did absolutely nothing! Well, that's a bit of a lie. I chatted with friends and family, I made arrangements for the next few days, and I am trying to get all my papers and luggage sorted. The only down side to moving on is the packing! And I don't even have a lot! But I have had a great time in Adelaide: I have seen so much and really enjoyed the company of Roger and Helen - thanks!
Tomorrow, I leave at 6.00am (!) to join the 2-day tour to Kangaroo Island. KI is known for it's unspoilt habitat, perfect for wildlife spotting. I am excited to be going there - and the weather should be great.
Hopefully, I can post before leaving for the centre of Oz. As my uncle said: "Gone walk-a-about"
Love, Lisa
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
My favourite pics so far...
I have posted some of my favourite pictures from Australia so far. Obviously, I can't post all of them (or even close). If you have Facebook, I do post a few more there so it may be worth a check (or at least I think so!). Enjoy!
My wine tasting in the Barossa Valley
Definately had a good time, but needed a little assistance :)
My dinner of Kangaroo - it was delicious!
A lazy Tasmanian Devil... too much swirling? All animals are from the Cleland Wildlife Park in Adelaide.
Hazel, the Koala.
The elusive bandikoot - everywhere!
A mommy Wallaby with baby
Wallaby love!
A cuddly looking wombat
A lovely kangaroo... begging for some love!
The group of kangaroos - free to wander and even better, I could wander amongst them!
Me jammin' with an Aboriginal in Sydney harbour
My first sight of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge - this was my "ah-ha" moment... I am in Australia!
My wine tasting in the Barossa Valley
Definately had a good time, but needed a little assistance :)
My dinner of Kangaroo - it was delicious!
A lazy Tasmanian Devil... too much swirling? All animals are from the Cleland Wildlife Park in Adelaide.
Hazel, the Koala.
The elusive bandikoot - everywhere!
A mommy Wallaby with baby
Wallaby love!
A cuddly looking wombat
A lovely kangaroo... begging for some love!
The group of kangaroos - free to wander and even better, I could wander amongst them!
Me jammin' with an Aboriginal in Sydney harbour
My first sight of the Sydney Opera House and Harbour Bridge - this was my "ah-ha" moment... I am in Australia!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Endless Enjoyment
Hey everyone,
I am still in Adelaide and still having such a good time. There is so much to see and do in the surrounding area that I have been kept busy. I guess that is a good thing.
Yesterday, Helen Roger and I drove down the coast (I saw my first Aussie beach) to Port Adelaide. Our plan: to visit a seahorse farm I had been told about in Sydney. It was pretty cool. They raise seahorses for commercial sale, which means that there are adult seahorses and even better... babies!! It was so amazing to see the little guys and to learn about these interesting creatures. Did you know that it is the male seahorse that is "pregnant"? And boy do they like to strut their stuff: the bigger the belly... I also got to pet a shark. AWESOME! It is scaly and kind of feels like sandpaper (not what I expected). From there we drove to a quiet spot for lunch before heading to St Kilda Mangrove Trail. There is a large area that is perfect conditions for mangroves to grow. I remember seeing Mangroves in Egypt but this forest trumped it: it was massive and we could walk along raised platforms to explore the area. It was peaceful and beautiful. Then it was home for dinner (or tea as the Bills call it) and a nice night of sharing photos. I saw some of their Kenya pics... oh, I have another place I would love to visit!
Today was excellent. A slow start (which was nice) and then a drive through the Gorge Valley to the Barossa Valley, a famous wine producing region. We visited our first winery, Jacob's Creek, and it was excellent. I have never done wine tasting before so this was a new and exciting adventure. They had an extensive list of wines to choose from so I just went for it. Now, some people choose to spit out the wine but me, well I decided to drink it all. So of course, by my fourth or fifth sample I was starting to feel cheery and warm. But the wines were excellent: I definately like the fruity and sweet wines. Of the twelve (!!!) wines I tried, my favourites were the Moscato white, the Orlando Liqueur Tawny (a fortified wine) and Gramp's Botrytis Semillon (a dessert wine). From there we had to stop for our picnic lunch (that much alcohol on an empty stomach... loopy!). Then we continued our drive through the Barossa Valley towards Seppeltsfield Wines. It was a beautiful old winery where I continued my tasting. But this time the wines were Sherry, Tawny and Tokay: much sweeter and richer and the alcohol content was averaging 17%. So I only managed 6 samples there. My favourite was the Selma Melitta Sherry (aged 20 years). It was a delicious day and I am ready to sleep! The great thing is that I learned about wines, how to taste and what I like. That is all good to know in a country that such excellent wines and brews.
So, tomorrow is my first day into Adelaide. I have the day to myself in town and hopefully I can explore most of the city. Then we are off to camp in the bush... that will be very cool.
Well, everything is excellent on my end. Having a great time in this remarkable country... and I have only just begun! I hope everyone else is well and enjoying yourselves wherever you are!
Love, Lisa
I am still in Adelaide and still having such a good time. There is so much to see and do in the surrounding area that I have been kept busy. I guess that is a good thing.
Yesterday, Helen Roger and I drove down the coast (I saw my first Aussie beach) to Port Adelaide. Our plan: to visit a seahorse farm I had been told about in Sydney. It was pretty cool. They raise seahorses for commercial sale, which means that there are adult seahorses and even better... babies!! It was so amazing to see the little guys and to learn about these interesting creatures. Did you know that it is the male seahorse that is "pregnant"? And boy do they like to strut their stuff: the bigger the belly... I also got to pet a shark. AWESOME! It is scaly and kind of feels like sandpaper (not what I expected). From there we drove to a quiet spot for lunch before heading to St Kilda Mangrove Trail. There is a large area that is perfect conditions for mangroves to grow. I remember seeing Mangroves in Egypt but this forest trumped it: it was massive and we could walk along raised platforms to explore the area. It was peaceful and beautiful. Then it was home for dinner (or tea as the Bills call it) and a nice night of sharing photos. I saw some of their Kenya pics... oh, I have another place I would love to visit!
Today was excellent. A slow start (which was nice) and then a drive through the Gorge Valley to the Barossa Valley, a famous wine producing region. We visited our first winery, Jacob's Creek, and it was excellent. I have never done wine tasting before so this was a new and exciting adventure. They had an extensive list of wines to choose from so I just went for it. Now, some people choose to spit out the wine but me, well I decided to drink it all. So of course, by my fourth or fifth sample I was starting to feel cheery and warm. But the wines were excellent: I definately like the fruity and sweet wines. Of the twelve (!!!) wines I tried, my favourites were the Moscato white, the Orlando Liqueur Tawny (a fortified wine) and Gramp's Botrytis Semillon (a dessert wine). From there we had to stop for our picnic lunch (that much alcohol on an empty stomach... loopy!). Then we continued our drive through the Barossa Valley towards Seppeltsfield Wines. It was a beautiful old winery where I continued my tasting. But this time the wines were Sherry, Tawny and Tokay: much sweeter and richer and the alcohol content was averaging 17%. So I only managed 6 samples there. My favourite was the Selma Melitta Sherry (aged 20 years). It was a delicious day and I am ready to sleep! The great thing is that I learned about wines, how to taste and what I like. That is all good to know in a country that such excellent wines and brews.
So, tomorrow is my first day into Adelaide. I have the day to myself in town and hopefully I can explore most of the city. Then we are off to camp in the bush... that will be very cool.
Well, everything is excellent on my end. Having a great time in this remarkable country... and I have only just begun! I hope everyone else is well and enjoying yourselves wherever you are!
Love, Lisa
Sunday, September 6, 2009
My first few days in Australia
Sorry I haven't posted earlier... been enjoying myself and staying busy. I am reporting now from Adelaide. Now, a lot of people have said "Why are you going to Adelaide?". Well, first I have friends who I wanted to visit and second, there is a lot to see in Adelaide and the surrounding area. Hopefully after this week of my posts, everyone will want to come to Adelaide!
But I digress, Sydney: oh, it was marvelous! I had two days in Sydney and I thoroughly enjoyed my time. First order of business was to get a mobile phone: done (I don't even have one back home (by choice!) so this was exciting). Then went to a travel agency to purchase some activities/tours/bus pass: done. I got a wicked deal and an so excited for some of the things I have selected: Kangaroo Island tour, Learn to Dive in the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays tour, Fraser Island tour, Greyhound bus ticket down the east coast (okay, maybe not that exciting). I will definately be keeping busy!
Then it was off to explore Sydney. Day one: walked through the surrounding neighbourhoods and wove my way to Darlinghurst where it started to rain. But even the rain couldn't dampen my spirits. Took a break though to have a beer before heading back home to King's Cross. Now, this is the Red Light District of Sydney and party central... can be interesting to say the least. Then headed out to Bondi Junction to check out the mall... but wasn't in the mood for shopping. By that time, the time difference and long flights caught up to me so it was time for bed.
Day two: Walked through the Botanic Gardens (absolutely stunning... will be going back when I return to Sydney!) and turned the corner to see... the Sydney Opera House! That was my "ah-ha" moment: I am in Australia!!!! It was so beautiful! Then walked along the harbour to take the metro across to the North Shore for lunch (Thai). Then, walked the Harbour Bridge. 30 minutes and beautiful views of Sydney and the Opera House. Wandered through the CBD (Central Business District aka. Downtown) looking for cute shops and eventually decided to head back out to the Mall in Bondi. Successfully found some cute shorts: had to because I barely brought anything with me. By the time I got back and finalized the tour packages at Wicked Travel, I had to pack and eat before bed. I flew out of Sydney early the next morning.
So at 3.30am on Saturday I was up and getting ready to leave. Yes, that says 3.30 AM!!! After standing by the metro in King's Cross for 30 minutes, waiting for the station to open so I could go to the Airport, I decided to hop in a taxi and go: running out of time, surrounded by drunks, drug addicts and ladies of the night... how entertaining! Made it to the airport with plenty of time and hopped on the plane to Adelaide. Was met by my friends Roger and Helen (met them in Egypt) and so excited to be in Adelaide.
After settling in, we ventured out to Cleland Wilderness Park where I met my first Australian kangaroo, wallaby, emu, bandikoot, koala, dingo and all the other animals. The park is open and the animals just wander around their large enclosure (well, most of them). And the people can walk right up to them! I fed the animals, pet them (so soft!!) and was just in heaven! It was an amazing few hours! Then we went up to Mt Lofty to see out over Adelaide but the sun was too bright. Then, for dinner we ate... kangaroo! I know, that's a little weird but it was so good. I didn't feel too weird eating the national animal I just cuddled... okay, maybe a little :)
Yesterday was Father's Day so I went to church with Roger and Helen before coming home and having lunch with the family. It felt great to be included in a family gathering... reminded me of family gatherings back home. (Miss you everyone!). Then it was a quick walk and sitting around watching a game of Aussie Rules Football. I am slowly picking up the rules: it kind of looks like a cross between basketball, soccer and football. But definately a unique sport! Next week should be fun... Adelaide is in the playoffs!
So today... the plan is to go to Port Adelaide to see a seahorse farm and the mangroves. It just rained for a bit so hopefully that's it for the day. It is the very beginning of spring here in Australia so the temps are low (15-17 celcius... I know, not that bad!) and the odd shower comes. But now is a great time to be here (everything is green!) and the temps are manageable in the centre up to Darwin. It gets extremely hot in the summer!
I am having a great time so far and am so excited to see Australia and all that it has to offer. I'll keep you posted.
Lots of love, Lisa
But I digress, Sydney: oh, it was marvelous! I had two days in Sydney and I thoroughly enjoyed my time. First order of business was to get a mobile phone: done (I don't even have one back home (by choice!) so this was exciting). Then went to a travel agency to purchase some activities/tours/bus pass: done. I got a wicked deal and an so excited for some of the things I have selected: Kangaroo Island tour, Learn to Dive in the Great Barrier Reef, Whitsundays tour, Fraser Island tour, Greyhound bus ticket down the east coast (okay, maybe not that exciting). I will definately be keeping busy!
Then it was off to explore Sydney. Day one: walked through the surrounding neighbourhoods and wove my way to Darlinghurst where it started to rain. But even the rain couldn't dampen my spirits. Took a break though to have a beer before heading back home to King's Cross. Now, this is the Red Light District of Sydney and party central... can be interesting to say the least. Then headed out to Bondi Junction to check out the mall... but wasn't in the mood for shopping. By that time, the time difference and long flights caught up to me so it was time for bed.
Day two: Walked through the Botanic Gardens (absolutely stunning... will be going back when I return to Sydney!) and turned the corner to see... the Sydney Opera House! That was my "ah-ha" moment: I am in Australia!!!! It was so beautiful! Then walked along the harbour to take the metro across to the North Shore for lunch (Thai). Then, walked the Harbour Bridge. 30 minutes and beautiful views of Sydney and the Opera House. Wandered through the CBD (Central Business District aka. Downtown) looking for cute shops and eventually decided to head back out to the Mall in Bondi. Successfully found some cute shorts: had to because I barely brought anything with me. By the time I got back and finalized the tour packages at Wicked Travel, I had to pack and eat before bed. I flew out of Sydney early the next morning.
So at 3.30am on Saturday I was up and getting ready to leave. Yes, that says 3.30 AM!!! After standing by the metro in King's Cross for 30 minutes, waiting for the station to open so I could go to the Airport, I decided to hop in a taxi and go: running out of time, surrounded by drunks, drug addicts and ladies of the night... how entertaining! Made it to the airport with plenty of time and hopped on the plane to Adelaide. Was met by my friends Roger and Helen (met them in Egypt) and so excited to be in Adelaide.
After settling in, we ventured out to Cleland Wilderness Park where I met my first Australian kangaroo, wallaby, emu, bandikoot, koala, dingo and all the other animals. The park is open and the animals just wander around their large enclosure (well, most of them). And the people can walk right up to them! I fed the animals, pet them (so soft!!) and was just in heaven! It was an amazing few hours! Then we went up to Mt Lofty to see out over Adelaide but the sun was too bright. Then, for dinner we ate... kangaroo! I know, that's a little weird but it was so good. I didn't feel too weird eating the national animal I just cuddled... okay, maybe a little :)
Yesterday was Father's Day so I went to church with Roger and Helen before coming home and having lunch with the family. It felt great to be included in a family gathering... reminded me of family gatherings back home. (Miss you everyone!). Then it was a quick walk and sitting around watching a game of Aussie Rules Football. I am slowly picking up the rules: it kind of looks like a cross between basketball, soccer and football. But definately a unique sport! Next week should be fun... Adelaide is in the playoffs!
So today... the plan is to go to Port Adelaide to see a seahorse farm and the mangroves. It just rained for a bit so hopefully that's it for the day. It is the very beginning of spring here in Australia so the temps are low (15-17 celcius... I know, not that bad!) and the odd shower comes. But now is a great time to be here (everything is green!) and the temps are manageable in the centre up to Darwin. It gets extremely hot in the summer!
I am having a great time so far and am so excited to see Australia and all that it has to offer. I'll keep you posted.
Lots of love, Lisa
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
G'day from Sydney!
Oh, I am so excited! My dream has come true... I am in Australia. And what a journey to get here. I feel like this year has all been about preparing me for this journey. I will use all the lessons I learned and I cannot wait for what is to come!
My last day in NYC was stressful: post office to mail package (finally, a little lighter... I got down to 27 pounds... that's everything I need for 4.5 months... crazy!). I did make it to the Brooklyn Bridge, a great memory of NYC. But then it was stressful with the actual transportation thing: had a shuttle bus take me there so that was great, but it was everything once I got to the airport.
I flew Delta Airlines and they are the most rude and unhelpful travel operators I have ever flown with. Worse than Olympic Airlines in Greece: different language and a nationally run small company, and they were still better than Delta! So of course I broke down in the middle of the airport (I am sorry to say I am such an emotional person when I am stressed and sick). And then the flying began: just over 6 hours to Los Angeles... thankfully, we arrived early so it was no rush to my connecting flight. And then began an epic flight of 17 hours to Sydney. I masterfully managed to select a middle seat of three and nobody flanked me, so that meant that I could lay down across all three seats and sleep. I have rarely been able to sleep when travelling, so I felt so much better after it. It was a smooth flight, no problems at customs, so I am now in Australia. Free to do whatever I want. I am so excited (can you tell?)
I met a fellow Canadian on the plane and we are now chilling out together. Should be a restful few days in Sydney before I head out to Adelaide. What a blast so far! I'll keep you posted.
Love, Lisa
My last day in NYC was stressful: post office to mail package (finally, a little lighter... I got down to 27 pounds... that's everything I need for 4.5 months... crazy!). I did make it to the Brooklyn Bridge, a great memory of NYC. But then it was stressful with the actual transportation thing: had a shuttle bus take me there so that was great, but it was everything once I got to the airport.
I flew Delta Airlines and they are the most rude and unhelpful travel operators I have ever flown with. Worse than Olympic Airlines in Greece: different language and a nationally run small company, and they were still better than Delta! So of course I broke down in the middle of the airport (I am sorry to say I am such an emotional person when I am stressed and sick). And then the flying began: just over 6 hours to Los Angeles... thankfully, we arrived early so it was no rush to my connecting flight. And then began an epic flight of 17 hours to Sydney. I masterfully managed to select a middle seat of three and nobody flanked me, so that meant that I could lay down across all three seats and sleep. I have rarely been able to sleep when travelling, so I felt so much better after it. It was a smooth flight, no problems at customs, so I am now in Australia. Free to do whatever I want. I am so excited (can you tell?)
I met a fellow Canadian on the plane and we are now chilling out together. Should be a restful few days in Sydney before I head out to Adelaide. What a blast so far! I'll keep you posted.
Love, Lisa
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Leaving the USA... on to Oz!
And it couldn't come at a better time. I am starting to get frustrated with the inadequacy of some people and the hustle & bustle of the US. For some reason, I think it will all be better once I arrive in Australia. I'll let you know.
My last full day in New York was not bad. I went on a Circle Line cruise down the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and back. Fantastic views of Liberty and the Manhatten, Jersey and Brooklyn skylines. Then I worked my way through the Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim (I was starting to burn out so didn't stay long). Finished the Harlem and Uptown bus tour (very cool) and made it back to the hostel by 6.00pm. Then I met a Welsh guy and we decided to head down to the (free!) Staten Island Ferry by night (amazing views of the skyline again!) and a diner off Times Square. It was a lovely last night in New York but it was late when I got in and as usual, I was up at 7.30am... it never fails, I can go to bed at 2.30am and still be up early. I hope this means I will be able to sleep on the planes! I'll pick up some Nyquil just in case.
So, reflection time. I have had a tumultuous time in the USA. I loved Washington DC and the time I spent with Jamie. Baltimore and Philadelphia were interesting and alright for quick visits, but I won't be rushing back to visit. New York part 1, well, we all know I absolutely hated most of the time I spent here. Boston, loved every moment of it and can't wait to return. New York part 2, much better and made NYC manageable. Definately not my favourite place in the world but I can see myself coming back: only this time I would travel with someone. NYC is a city that you need to be with someone... one of the very few I have been to. But it does make a huge difference having someone at your side.
So, last things to do in NYC before I leave. Mail package of stuff home (why do I always have so much?). Pack. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge. That's it I guess. Hopefully it all goes smoothly. Then it is the long trip to Australia: almost 7 hours to Los Angeles, 45 minutes between flights, 17 hour flight to Sydney. Man, I am definately crazy!
So I will talk to you all on September 3rd (I will be in nowhere land on Sept 2nd... it just doesn't exist for me this year... trippy).
Love you all, Lisa
My last full day in New York was not bad. I went on a Circle Line cruise down the Hudson River to the Statue of Liberty and back. Fantastic views of Liberty and the Manhatten, Jersey and Brooklyn skylines. Then I worked my way through the Museum of Natural History and the Guggenheim (I was starting to burn out so didn't stay long). Finished the Harlem and Uptown bus tour (very cool) and made it back to the hostel by 6.00pm. Then I met a Welsh guy and we decided to head down to the (free!) Staten Island Ferry by night (amazing views of the skyline again!) and a diner off Times Square. It was a lovely last night in New York but it was late when I got in and as usual, I was up at 7.30am... it never fails, I can go to bed at 2.30am and still be up early. I hope this means I will be able to sleep on the planes! I'll pick up some Nyquil just in case.
So, reflection time. I have had a tumultuous time in the USA. I loved Washington DC and the time I spent with Jamie. Baltimore and Philadelphia were interesting and alright for quick visits, but I won't be rushing back to visit. New York part 1, well, we all know I absolutely hated most of the time I spent here. Boston, loved every moment of it and can't wait to return. New York part 2, much better and made NYC manageable. Definately not my favourite place in the world but I can see myself coming back: only this time I would travel with someone. NYC is a city that you need to be with someone... one of the very few I have been to. But it does make a huge difference having someone at your side.
So, last things to do in NYC before I leave. Mail package of stuff home (why do I always have so much?). Pack. Walk the Brooklyn Bridge. That's it I guess. Hopefully it all goes smoothly. Then it is the long trip to Australia: almost 7 hours to Los Angeles, 45 minutes between flights, 17 hour flight to Sydney. Man, I am definately crazy!
So I will talk to you all on September 3rd (I will be in nowhere land on Sept 2nd... it just doesn't exist for me this year... trippy).
Love you all, Lisa
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