Well, I have made it down the east coast mostly intact. It has taken me one month and I have enjoyed most of it. By far the best part was learning to dive in Cairns. But the Whitsundays was another blessing. Well, minus getting sick. But my doc in Brisbane said there has been something working its way across the coast so I guess it was hard to avoid it.
Byron Bay has been alright. Was able to relax on the beach yesterday and went to the cinema to see "Mao's Last Dancer" which was cool. I needed a day to rest after my stint in the circus. In my guide book, there was a note about a Circus school in town where they teach you the Flying Trapeze. And for some crazy reason, I thought that would be a cool thing to learn. Definately a skill that will be handy. So I went in the evening. And right away was thrown into the art of the Flying Trapeze. I had to climb up a ladder to a platform 8 meters above the floor. At that point my heart was racing and I was shaking. And then they wanted me to lean out over the edge of the platform to grab the swing bar. Okay, so I did have a harness and there was a lady behind me holding onto the belt but it took a lot to reach out. I will be the first person to admit that I have trust issues. So it was hard to trust that I wouldn't fall over the edge. But I did it - I held onto the bar. And then they expected me to pin drop off the edge and swing. And not just swing but hook my knees over the bar and swing by my knees. Crazy. It took me three times to get used to the swing motion (and that you are supposed to use momentum to get your legs up, rather than fighting the momentum) and then to bend my legs to hook my knees. But on the third try, I was less shaky and got my knees up - and then I swung upside down, 8 meters above the ground. What a thrill! It didn't look pretty but I did it. I think I was the clown of the group: looking awkward and entertaining everyone. Next up was the catch: I was expected to let go and another guy would be there to grab my arms and swing me. Yeah, right. I couldn't get that part... so scary. I did get a high five in the air but I was not going to let go of my swing. You can't expect me to trust everyone right away. But I enjoyed it. It was challenging and intense but so much fun. Not sure if I would do it again but at least if someone needs a trapeze artist, I can say I have done the Flying Trapeze.
So, next up is Sydney. I plan on getting everything together for New Zealand as I fly out on November 3. Wow, I cannot believe it is almost November. I have been travelling since February! To be completely honest, I am getting tired. It is hard work backpacking around the world. I never get a day off: I am always making sure that I get from point A to B, that I have all my stuff, that I have a place to stay, food to eat and then trying to see everything and experience as much as possible. Man, I'm going to need a holiday from my year off! (Just kidding, Doug!). I have loved this year to explore and grow but I am looking forward to returning homw to a bit of routine... just a bit though. Still got to keep it interesting.
Well, gotta dash. Need to get some beach time in before I leave Byron. I promise pics will come soon. I just need a semi-reliable computer.
Love, Lisa
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Brissie to Byron
Hey everyone,
Hope everyone is well. I feel heaps better. In Brisbane, I was able to heal myself (well, all the meds helped) and I am starting to feel normal again. I stayed with a friend and her parents and felt so comfortable and cared for: exactly what you need when sick. Thanks Penny and Mr and Mrs Jenkins!
I had a great time in Brissie. Penny gave me a great tour of the area. We went to Wellington Point and walked out on the sand bridge to a mangrove island. It was very cool (a little wet) but awesome to see the kite surfers jumping and flipping around. We ate at a great steak joint... mmmmm, fabulous and juicy steak! Then we went out to Mount Coot-tha for brilliant views of the city and the surrounding mountains. South Bank of Brissie is a really cool, chill place with lots of places to relax and enjoy the views. We were there to browse the markets. Then, Fish & Chips (okay, I admit I am an addict). The next day was a road trip day out to Lamington National Park and Green Mountain. We did a tree top walk through the canopy which was pretty cool. Didn't see a lot of animals but on the way back into Brisbane, we stopped at a place and saw a wallaby with a baby. So cute when the baby hopped over to Mom and pulled open the pouch to eat... awwwww!
Then I had a day to myself so I went out to the Australia Zoo. It is a pretty impressive zoo: it is massive, great variety and very interactive. Scary at times (crocodiles and people mostly) but still cool. So now I can check that off my list.
I am now in Byron Bay and just relaxing. I have a trapeze lesson this evening... so cool. I think that is a skill that will definately come in handy at some point. I'll let you know how it goes.
Talk to you all in a few,
Lisa
Hope everyone is well. I feel heaps better. In Brisbane, I was able to heal myself (well, all the meds helped) and I am starting to feel normal again. I stayed with a friend and her parents and felt so comfortable and cared for: exactly what you need when sick. Thanks Penny and Mr and Mrs Jenkins!
I had a great time in Brissie. Penny gave me a great tour of the area. We went to Wellington Point and walked out on the sand bridge to a mangrove island. It was very cool (a little wet) but awesome to see the kite surfers jumping and flipping around. We ate at a great steak joint... mmmmm, fabulous and juicy steak! Then we went out to Mount Coot-tha for brilliant views of the city and the surrounding mountains. South Bank of Brissie is a really cool, chill place with lots of places to relax and enjoy the views. We were there to browse the markets. Then, Fish & Chips (okay, I admit I am an addict). The next day was a road trip day out to Lamington National Park and Green Mountain. We did a tree top walk through the canopy which was pretty cool. Didn't see a lot of animals but on the way back into Brisbane, we stopped at a place and saw a wallaby with a baby. So cute when the baby hopped over to Mom and pulled open the pouch to eat... awwwww!
Then I had a day to myself so I went out to the Australia Zoo. It is a pretty impressive zoo: it is massive, great variety and very interactive. Scary at times (crocodiles and people mostly) but still cool. So now I can check that off my list.
I am now in Byron Bay and just relaxing. I have a trapeze lesson this evening... so cool. I think that is a skill that will definately come in handy at some point. I'll let you know how it goes.
Talk to you all in a few,
Lisa
Saturday, October 24, 2009
An unexpected stop: Emergency at Noosa Hospital
So, that annoying cough that I mentioned earlier. Well, it turned out to be so much more. A few hours after I posted about feeling better it all got worse. I woke up just after midnight with an awful fever. My sheets were hot to the touch from my bodyheat. Add chills to that and I knew something was not right. The pain in my throat was excruciating and I was sore all over from violently coughing non stop for what felt like hours. So out came my papers for my travel insurance and a handful of coins for the payphone. Why is it that the number the insurance company gives you to call for emergencies is never in service? What's the point of giving it to me? Thankfully, I have the best Daddy in the world who made all the calls for me and got all the information I needed to get help.
So at 2.30am, I got myself into a taxi and went to the hospital in Noosa. Checked myself in and waited for help. The nurses and doctors were great. I had a high fever, swollen glands, red ears and throat. Diagnosis: throat infection. Thankfully, it had not moved into my chest. So I am now taking antibiotics and pain killers and waiting to return back to normal. I can't wait to feel "human" again. I hate being sick when travelling... all I want is to be home with my family and have my mom care for me. Instead, I sat on the couch and watched the tele or had a nap (okay, maybe a few). Two days later and I am starting to feel better. I can swallow without wincing and no fever. What a relief. The only side effect is that I have a rash on my arm... maybe I am allergic to the antibiotics. Wouldn't that be crazy.
So, I have not been to the Australia Zoo yet. But I am now in Brisbane staying with a friend I met in Europe, Penny. Definately what I need right now... a friendly face and a place to settle for a few days.
So, don't worry about me. It has just been an interesting few days. I'll talk to you all in another few.
Love, Lisa
So at 2.30am, I got myself into a taxi and went to the hospital in Noosa. Checked myself in and waited for help. The nurses and doctors were great. I had a high fever, swollen glands, red ears and throat. Diagnosis: throat infection. Thankfully, it had not moved into my chest. So I am now taking antibiotics and pain killers and waiting to return back to normal. I can't wait to feel "human" again. I hate being sick when travelling... all I want is to be home with my family and have my mom care for me. Instead, I sat on the couch and watched the tele or had a nap (okay, maybe a few). Two days later and I am starting to feel better. I can swallow without wincing and no fever. What a relief. The only side effect is that I have a rash on my arm... maybe I am allergic to the antibiotics. Wouldn't that be crazy.
So, I have not been to the Australia Zoo yet. But I am now in Brisbane staying with a friend I met in Europe, Penny. Definately what I need right now... a friendly face and a place to settle for a few days.
So, don't worry about me. It has just been an interesting few days. I'll talk to you all in another few.
Love, Lisa
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Noosa: surfing and Steve Irwin
Hey everyone! Yes, I am still alive. Sorry it has been a while since I posted but I have been stranded on islands! But I am back and have so much to tell you about.
As I said in my last post, the Whitsunday Islands were incredible. One of the prettiest places I have ever been and I realize that I was so fortunate to go. Seeing the beaches from above, at the lookout, really made the beach that much more spectacular as I could see the whole beach and the power it holds. So cool.
I am feeling better - my cold was gone by the time I left for Fraser Island. I just have this lingering cough that won't go away. And camping on a sand island for 3 days didn't necessarily help. Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island. I did a self-drive tour which means a group of 10 were given a 4WD vehicle, tents, dishes and a map and sent to the island. We just had to provide the food: and the group ate lots of meat and 15 loaves of bread... in 3 days! Crazy boys! It was so cool: we had a great group and the freedom to do what we want and when. It was definately interesting driving on sand roads... we only got stuck 5-6 times. But the island is so beautiful. We went ot lake Mackenzie, a large freshwater lake. We camped on the beach where we could watch the sunrise and sunset, while surrounded by dingoes (it's okay, they are harmless... as long as you are in a group!). We spent a day driving up the 70 mile beach (the road) to see Indians Head, the Pinnacles, Maheno wreck and Eli Creek. And some of us went to Lake Wabby, an emerald green lake. It was a brilliant few days stranded on the island. But as I said, you can only take so much sand getting into your food and your lungs and every part of your body. I won't lie, it was nice to get off and have a shower.
From Hervey Bay, I have now arrived in Noosa. I am staying at a very chill hostel. And today, I spent the day surfing. I had a lesson at 9am where they taught the group basic skills to get us standing on the board. I managed to ride two waves which was so cool. Then I had a few hours to relax before my second lesson. This time, I was the only one so I paid group price for a private lesson. My instructor, Grant, was able to fine tune my movements and on my first wave, I was up! I was able to get so many waves and rode around 10 in my second lesson. And for two of them, I even turned and rode the length of the wave. What a thrill! My body hurts a lot though, as it sure took a beating out in the surf. And I am so tired - I haven't done something so strenuous in a long time. But it was worth it. I am a surfer!
Tomorrow, I am heading to the Australia Zoo, home of the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. I have heard it is spectacular and I am excited to see all the animals. Maybe even pet some... a crocodile maybe?
I promise that I will get pictures up soon. I have seen a lot of beautiful places lately and would love all of you to see them along with me.
Lots of love,
Lisa
As I said in my last post, the Whitsunday Islands were incredible. One of the prettiest places I have ever been and I realize that I was so fortunate to go. Seeing the beaches from above, at the lookout, really made the beach that much more spectacular as I could see the whole beach and the power it holds. So cool.
I am feeling better - my cold was gone by the time I left for Fraser Island. I just have this lingering cough that won't go away. And camping on a sand island for 3 days didn't necessarily help. Fraser Island is the world's largest sand island. I did a self-drive tour which means a group of 10 were given a 4WD vehicle, tents, dishes and a map and sent to the island. We just had to provide the food: and the group ate lots of meat and 15 loaves of bread... in 3 days! Crazy boys! It was so cool: we had a great group and the freedom to do what we want and when. It was definately interesting driving on sand roads... we only got stuck 5-6 times. But the island is so beautiful. We went ot lake Mackenzie, a large freshwater lake. We camped on the beach where we could watch the sunrise and sunset, while surrounded by dingoes (it's okay, they are harmless... as long as you are in a group!). We spent a day driving up the 70 mile beach (the road) to see Indians Head, the Pinnacles, Maheno wreck and Eli Creek. And some of us went to Lake Wabby, an emerald green lake. It was a brilliant few days stranded on the island. But as I said, you can only take so much sand getting into your food and your lungs and every part of your body. I won't lie, it was nice to get off and have a shower.
From Hervey Bay, I have now arrived in Noosa. I am staying at a very chill hostel. And today, I spent the day surfing. I had a lesson at 9am where they taught the group basic skills to get us standing on the board. I managed to ride two waves which was so cool. Then I had a few hours to relax before my second lesson. This time, I was the only one so I paid group price for a private lesson. My instructor, Grant, was able to fine tune my movements and on my first wave, I was up! I was able to get so many waves and rode around 10 in my second lesson. And for two of them, I even turned and rode the length of the wave. What a thrill! My body hurts a lot though, as it sure took a beating out in the surf. And I am so tired - I haven't done something so strenuous in a long time. But it was worth it. I am a surfer!
Tomorrow, I am heading to the Australia Zoo, home of the late Crocodile Hunter, Steve Irwin. I have heard it is spectacular and I am excited to see all the animals. Maybe even pet some... a crocodile maybe?
I promise that I will get pictures up soon. I have seen a lot of beautiful places lately and would love all of you to see them along with me.
Lots of love,
Lisa
Friday, October 16, 2009
Back from sailing and on to 4WD
Hey everyone,
I am now in Hervey Bay getting ready to go on a 4WD trek around Fraser Island. But I wish I could do it in a few days. I just took the overnight bus from Airlie Beach which was rough in itself. But add onto that a head cold and I am completely done. On the third day of the Whitsunday sailing trip, I woke up without a voice, a throbbing headache, stuffed sinuses and could barely swallow. And I couldn't be bothered to do anything. So I didn't: I stayed on the boat and tried to sweat out the cold. And I did feel better once I was on mainland, had a shower and laid by the pool.
But that is minor news when I can talk about the Whitsunday Islands. Our full day out sailing was spectacular. Beautiful weather, great group of people and the best beaches I have ever seen! White sand stretching alongside the bluest of water... breathtaking! I could have laid on the beach forever. It was stunning and I am still having trouble putting it into words: pristine, calm, stunning... ahhhh! I am not much of a beach person but it was remarkable. And probably one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.
So I am back to the real world and heading out again. Rapid fire... the way I always travel. This trip should be good: unpopulated island with lots to see. Of course I will not be driving because I can't drive standard... curse my first driving instructor and her helmet! It gave me a complex.
Anyways, not much has happened other that the sailing. I'll keep you posted once I return from Fraser Island.
Love, Lisa
I am now in Hervey Bay getting ready to go on a 4WD trek around Fraser Island. But I wish I could do it in a few days. I just took the overnight bus from Airlie Beach which was rough in itself. But add onto that a head cold and I am completely done. On the third day of the Whitsunday sailing trip, I woke up without a voice, a throbbing headache, stuffed sinuses and could barely swallow. And I couldn't be bothered to do anything. So I didn't: I stayed on the boat and tried to sweat out the cold. And I did feel better once I was on mainland, had a shower and laid by the pool.
But that is minor news when I can talk about the Whitsunday Islands. Our full day out sailing was spectacular. Beautiful weather, great group of people and the best beaches I have ever seen! White sand stretching alongside the bluest of water... breathtaking! I could have laid on the beach forever. It was stunning and I am still having trouble putting it into words: pristine, calm, stunning... ahhhh! I am not much of a beach person but it was remarkable. And probably one of the most beautiful places I have ever been.
So I am back to the real world and heading out again. Rapid fire... the way I always travel. This trip should be good: unpopulated island with lots to see. Of course I will not be driving because I can't drive standard... curse my first driving instructor and her helmet! It gave me a complex.
Anyways, not much has happened other that the sailing. I'll keep you posted once I return from Fraser Island.
Love, Lisa
Monday, October 12, 2009
Advanced Adventure Open Water Diver... what a mouthful!
So, I have just come back from the best dive in Australia and one of the Top 10 in the world. And to be honest, it sucked. Just kidding! It was incredible: I was so excited to get out "on my own" and dive the Yongala wreck. It was a choppy ride out to the site (3 hours of choppy water) but once we were there, it was right into the water. I was so focussed on descending properly that all of a sudden, I was hovering over the wreck. And I fell in love! Don't get me wrong, I loved diving in the Great Barrier Reef but, to come up on a ship that was at one time on the surface and a part of everyday life, and is now sitting 30 meters under water... well, I loved the experience. I was told that the site looked like it was on steroids and Corey, you were right. Everything is big and in your face: it can be hard to focus. It was incredible to see the abundance of marine life all clinging to a ship that at one time, had human life clinging to it. Very powerful.
The Yongala sank during a cyclone in 1911 with the unfortunate loss of all 122 on board. The ship sits in the middle of the sandy ocean so of course it attracts marine life from the area. I didn't see all the animals I had expected but I did see lots of fish, a turtle and sea snakes. It was beautiful. But I was so overcome with just seeing my first wreck: what a sight. Ryan, you are going to have to come diving with me! An expert on nautical archaeology will definately come in handy!
It was a spectacular day. I completed another two Adventure courses, Wreck and Boat, so I am now at the Advanced level. I am so happy! And I was even told that I would make a great instructor: that compliment was so much appreciated and just helped to boost my confidence. I want to dive everywhere now: oceans, lakes, rivers, ponds. I would even go back to the pool! I have found my calling - the thing I most love to do! What a brilliant feeling!
Unfortunately, I won't be diving for a bit. Next up is Airlie Beach where I will go on a 3 day sailing boat to the Whitsunday Islands. That should be nice: hopefully I can get out and snorkel. Then, it will be an overnight bus to Hervey Bay to begin a 4 day Fraser Island 4WD tour. So the next week will be busy and hopefully I can keep you all in the loop. If not, well, talk to you from Noosa.
Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone! This year has made me ever more cognisant of what I am thankful for: my wonderful, supportive and loving family, many great and unique friends from all over the world, the opportunity to travel and grow, and the support of everyone I have met. You are all part of the journey and I wish you all the best!
Love, Lisa
The Yongala sank during a cyclone in 1911 with the unfortunate loss of all 122 on board. The ship sits in the middle of the sandy ocean so of course it attracts marine life from the area. I didn't see all the animals I had expected but I did see lots of fish, a turtle and sea snakes. It was beautiful. But I was so overcome with just seeing my first wreck: what a sight. Ryan, you are going to have to come diving with me! An expert on nautical archaeology will definately come in handy!
It was a spectacular day. I completed another two Adventure courses, Wreck and Boat, so I am now at the Advanced level. I am so happy! And I was even told that I would make a great instructor: that compliment was so much appreciated and just helped to boost my confidence. I want to dive everywhere now: oceans, lakes, rivers, ponds. I would even go back to the pool! I have found my calling - the thing I most love to do! What a brilliant feeling!
Unfortunately, I won't be diving for a bit. Next up is Airlie Beach where I will go on a 3 day sailing boat to the Whitsunday Islands. That should be nice: hopefully I can get out and snorkel. Then, it will be an overnight bus to Hervey Bay to begin a 4 day Fraser Island 4WD tour. So the next week will be busy and hopefully I can keep you all in the loop. If not, well, talk to you from Noosa.
Happy Thanksgiving Day everyone! This year has made me ever more cognisant of what I am thankful for: my wonderful, supportive and loving family, many great and unique friends from all over the world, the opportunity to travel and grow, and the support of everyone I have met. You are all part of the journey and I wish you all the best!
Love, Lisa
Saturday, October 10, 2009
Finally, some pics...
Mark, my dive buddy, with a turtle. So cool!
Clownfish in the Great Barrier Reef
Coral reef with loads of fish
Having a blast underwater!
I am a certified diver! Woo hoo!
Dust storm that eventually hit Sydney
Group on top of King's Canyon
King's Canyon
Digging for Witchetty grubs
Sand Angel in the red centre
Two heads at Uluru
Uluru at sunset
Kata Tjuta
Northern Territory
Noodling in Coober Pedy
My man in Coober Pedy
Crazy Coober Pedy
The Red Centre
Me licking a salt lake
Wilpena Pound
Me on the coast of Kangaroo Island
An echidna... so cute
Kangaroo Island
At the Remarkable rocks on Kangaroo Island
At the Remarkable Rocks
At the Remarkable Rocks
Sea Lions on Kangaroo Island
Baby Sea Lion
Friday, October 9, 2009
I'm so excited...
I have had one of the best weeks of my life. It took forever to happen but on Monday, I started my PADI Open Water learn to dive course. The first two days were all about theory: mornings in the classroom, afternoons in the pool implementing all that we learned.
The first time I was in the pool was incredible. I went from being the girl who hated having her face in the water to sinking down to the bottom of the pool and breathing under water for the first time. And it was an incredible rush! The first two days were exhausting but excellent. I had the best instructor, Corey, and had such a great experience learning about diving. Each skill that I learned and accomplished only boosted my confidence and I felt ready to dive for the first time!
So on Wednesday, I went out to the Great Barrier Reef and just went for it. I won't lie: I did cry and I hadn't even made it off the boat yet. But if you know me, I am very emotional. It wasn't that I was scared (I actually felt very confident in my abilities... I was well trained) but I was overcome with emotion because this would be the first time I stepped off a boat and went for a dive in the ocean. The Great Barrier Reef no less. But I just did it and how I felt is really hard to capture. I was overwhelmed with the expanse of the ocean and the whole new world that I was able to explore. I was excited about what I was seeing. And I was so proud of myself for taking that step... it is by far the best physical challenge I have ever undertaken.
So over two days, the group accomplished 4 dives. And each one was unique, challenging but so cool! By the end of the two days, I had sat on the bottom of the reef and taken my mask off, removed my regulator (the thing I need to breath!) underwater, floated mid ocean, did flips, swam through coral shelves and completed all the tasks required for Open water certification. Oh, and I almost forgot... I saw a shark (what a beautiful creature... almost took my breath away except that I remembered the number one rule when diving: never hold your breath!), a stingray, turtles, and lots of fish! What a remarkable place to dive... there is always something to see!
So by the end of Thursday, I was a certified Open Water diver!!!! It was a great group of people and I had the best instructor and an amazing crew on the boat! Oh and I can't forget my buddy, Mark, who was a blast to dive with and I fully trusted! Thanks everyone!
I loved the experience so much that I cancelled some of my plans and stayed an extra day so that I could complete the Adventure Diver course. With Open Water, you are allowed to dive to max 18 meters depth. By completing the Adventure Diver course, I am now allowed to dive to 30 meters! This opens up so many more dives to me! And to be honest, I didn't really notice a huge change diving at 25m... just that the life down there wasn't as prolific. Friday consisted of 3 dives and now I am a certified Adventure Diver. God, I get so excited just thinking about it. What an accomplishment! And all in just 5 days.
So next up for me is Townsville where I will dive the best place in Australia... Yongala wreck. It will be amazing... I can feel it! I'll let you know how it goes. Oh, and pictures will be coming shortly (so you can get a sense of what I am rtalking about).
So, talk to you soon. I have a bus to catch!
Love, Lisa
The first time I was in the pool was incredible. I went from being the girl who hated having her face in the water to sinking down to the bottom of the pool and breathing under water for the first time. And it was an incredible rush! The first two days were exhausting but excellent. I had the best instructor, Corey, and had such a great experience learning about diving. Each skill that I learned and accomplished only boosted my confidence and I felt ready to dive for the first time!
So on Wednesday, I went out to the Great Barrier Reef and just went for it. I won't lie: I did cry and I hadn't even made it off the boat yet. But if you know me, I am very emotional. It wasn't that I was scared (I actually felt very confident in my abilities... I was well trained) but I was overcome with emotion because this would be the first time I stepped off a boat and went for a dive in the ocean. The Great Barrier Reef no less. But I just did it and how I felt is really hard to capture. I was overwhelmed with the expanse of the ocean and the whole new world that I was able to explore. I was excited about what I was seeing. And I was so proud of myself for taking that step... it is by far the best physical challenge I have ever undertaken.
So over two days, the group accomplished 4 dives. And each one was unique, challenging but so cool! By the end of the two days, I had sat on the bottom of the reef and taken my mask off, removed my regulator (the thing I need to breath!) underwater, floated mid ocean, did flips, swam through coral shelves and completed all the tasks required for Open water certification. Oh, and I almost forgot... I saw a shark (what a beautiful creature... almost took my breath away except that I remembered the number one rule when diving: never hold your breath!), a stingray, turtles, and lots of fish! What a remarkable place to dive... there is always something to see!
So by the end of Thursday, I was a certified Open Water diver!!!! It was a great group of people and I had the best instructor and an amazing crew on the boat! Oh and I can't forget my buddy, Mark, who was a blast to dive with and I fully trusted! Thanks everyone!
I loved the experience so much that I cancelled some of my plans and stayed an extra day so that I could complete the Adventure Diver course. With Open Water, you are allowed to dive to max 18 meters depth. By completing the Adventure Diver course, I am now allowed to dive to 30 meters! This opens up so many more dives to me! And to be honest, I didn't really notice a huge change diving at 25m... just that the life down there wasn't as prolific. Friday consisted of 3 dives and now I am a certified Adventure Diver. God, I get so excited just thinking about it. What an accomplishment! And all in just 5 days.
So next up for me is Townsville where I will dive the best place in Australia... Yongala wreck. It will be amazing... I can feel it! I'll let you know how it goes. Oh, and pictures will be coming shortly (so you can get a sense of what I am rtalking about).
So, talk to you soon. I have a bus to catch!
Love, Lisa
Thursday, October 1, 2009
On the East coast... finally!
G'day from Cairns! I hope everyone is enjoying the beginning of October! Man, it's hard to believe that I have been travelling for 8 months now! So much conquered... yet so much to still see.
Everything is great in Oz. I had a rough first tour up to Alice Srings but after that it all got better. The tour from Alice to Darwin was just three days but was great. Awesome guide, great group of people and lots of beautiful places to see. Gradually it got more green and driving through the Never Never was bizarre - absolutely nothing there. My favourite stop was by far Daly Waters... population of 10. But it is a town because it has a pub. It was just a quirky place and I loved it! Got to go swimming in some pretty places which helped beat the heat. I am not cut out for 35+ weather. Our last night was in Darwin and the group had a great time at the Vic Pub. Early morning meant that I couldn't stay out late.
The next day we left on the last tour into Litchfield and Kakadu NP. Cool guide and the best group of people... fun lovin' and great! Kakadu was spectacular. Lots of brilliant places to see, swim, and a fabulous cruise. I saw at least a dozen crocodiles! That was so cool! Sad that we accidently ran over one with the propeller... but I was told he would be alright (I hope!).
Last night in Darwin was off the hook! Hostel was awful (we didn't have a light in the toilet and no lock on the door... not cool). But we all went to the Vic again and I totally let loose. Very quickly I had won 3 pitchers of beer in contests: I blew up a balloon the fastest to have it pop, and then successfully played a vacuum attachment like a didge. It was a great night of dancing, partying, and hanging out with great people. Sadly, we all had to go our separate ways (the part of travelling I Hate!). So I stayed up all night rather than going to bed (I had a 3am airport shuttle pickup) and then had a delayed flight to Cairns. It was a long two days by the time I arrived in Cairns. But I am so glad I am here. The hostel is clean and chill. And I was finally able to sleep!
Yesterday, I did a tour of the Atherton Tablelands which was hilarious! Crazy people, wicked places to swim (anybody remember the waterfall from Herbal Essenses commercial?) and craziness ensued. I did have a bit to drink and when we were out looking for tree kangaroos I accidently fell on the stinging tree. So now I have Dead man's Itch - and it is awful. My arm was inflammed yesterday and right away it was burning. Even today. the burning itch won't go away. And I have been told that it stays for 2 weeks and then symptoms can return with temperature changes for up to 6 months! Not cool. But at least I learned my lesson (I hope). Ended the night with something I have never done before... flashed a car next to us. Alcohol + me = crazy! But at least I am living up to my new nickname, "the crazy canadian".
Hopefully I can take it easy the next few days. The tours have been exhausting - early mornings and late nights with a lot to do in the day. But I wouldn't change anything... I have loved it all. Even the first tour was worth it. I have been able to see so much of Australia that is so different from anything else.
So in Cairns, I start my Learn to Dive course in a few days. That is going to be awesome: learning to dive in the Great Barrier Reef! And then once I get my PADI certification, I can dive anywhere!
So, things are good with me. Mom and Dad, don't worry yourself. It's all good!
Love y'all, Lisa
Everything is great in Oz. I had a rough first tour up to Alice Srings but after that it all got better. The tour from Alice to Darwin was just three days but was great. Awesome guide, great group of people and lots of beautiful places to see. Gradually it got more green and driving through the Never Never was bizarre - absolutely nothing there. My favourite stop was by far Daly Waters... population of 10. But it is a town because it has a pub. It was just a quirky place and I loved it! Got to go swimming in some pretty places which helped beat the heat. I am not cut out for 35+ weather. Our last night was in Darwin and the group had a great time at the Vic Pub. Early morning meant that I couldn't stay out late.
The next day we left on the last tour into Litchfield and Kakadu NP. Cool guide and the best group of people... fun lovin' and great! Kakadu was spectacular. Lots of brilliant places to see, swim, and a fabulous cruise. I saw at least a dozen crocodiles! That was so cool! Sad that we accidently ran over one with the propeller... but I was told he would be alright (I hope!).
Last night in Darwin was off the hook! Hostel was awful (we didn't have a light in the toilet and no lock on the door... not cool). But we all went to the Vic again and I totally let loose. Very quickly I had won 3 pitchers of beer in contests: I blew up a balloon the fastest to have it pop, and then successfully played a vacuum attachment like a didge. It was a great night of dancing, partying, and hanging out with great people. Sadly, we all had to go our separate ways (the part of travelling I Hate!). So I stayed up all night rather than going to bed (I had a 3am airport shuttle pickup) and then had a delayed flight to Cairns. It was a long two days by the time I arrived in Cairns. But I am so glad I am here. The hostel is clean and chill. And I was finally able to sleep!
Yesterday, I did a tour of the Atherton Tablelands which was hilarious! Crazy people, wicked places to swim (anybody remember the waterfall from Herbal Essenses commercial?) and craziness ensued. I did have a bit to drink and when we were out looking for tree kangaroos I accidently fell on the stinging tree. So now I have Dead man's Itch - and it is awful. My arm was inflammed yesterday and right away it was burning. Even today. the burning itch won't go away. And I have been told that it stays for 2 weeks and then symptoms can return with temperature changes for up to 6 months! Not cool. But at least I learned my lesson (I hope). Ended the night with something I have never done before... flashed a car next to us. Alcohol + me = crazy! But at least I am living up to my new nickname, "the crazy canadian".
Hopefully I can take it easy the next few days. The tours have been exhausting - early mornings and late nights with a lot to do in the day. But I wouldn't change anything... I have loved it all. Even the first tour was worth it. I have been able to see so much of Australia that is so different from anything else.
So in Cairns, I start my Learn to Dive course in a few days. That is going to be awesome: learning to dive in the Great Barrier Reef! And then once I get my PADI certification, I can dive anywhere!
So, things are good with me. Mom and Dad, don't worry yourself. It's all good!
Love y'all, Lisa
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