Holidays Holidaze

We spent nearly a month in Australia. In doing so, we've also come close to celebrating 3 holidays here. The first, Boxing Day. Although technically we were in New Zealand, Australia celebrates it the same way and maybe even goes a step further into making it a weeklong event. However, the meaning of Boxing Day has taken a more retail definition at present. Historically, the holiday was meant to show some sort of gratitude to those who provided services. Boxing Day now means plenty of shops advertising sales and deep discounts. In a sense, the historical tradition holds true, so long as what you purchase is going to someone else, and not self satisfying.

Our original goal was to be here for New Years Eve. Mission accomplished. Festivities galore. I won't bore you with the highlights. Just see my posts from Sydney.

And the last holiday that we are just about to miss is Australia Day. Somewhat similar to America's Independence Day, Australians celebrate the arrival of the First Fleet. These were the first British settlers sent by England to establish a penal colony. More on that here.

But the modern day celebrations seem to celebrate everything good and great about Australia and include events such as bbqs, concerts, festivals, and fireworks. We've been hearing heaps (see definition here) about the special day and are sad to be missing it.

All in all our month in Australia and New Zealand have given us a great insight to what life is like both from a tourist perspective and from the locals whom we have come to meet, share meals with, and formed the bonds of friendship.

Western Australia: Our Last Stop in this Country / Continent

With limited time on the Western coast of Australia, a number of people we met along the way advised us to get out of Perth and see either the Northern or Southern areas. As Perth is not geographically center of the coastline, we had to pursue the Southern route to Southwest Australia. Going North would have required much more time on the road.

For 2 days we navigated around the Margaret River region. Once you get to Margaret River, everything worth seeing is within a 45 minute drive, so it's easy to see plenty of sites.

From our camper van digs just outside of the main drag in Margaret River, we started out with a trip to the southern most point around here, Cape Leeuwin and the Leeuwin Lighthouse, where we did a self-guided tour of the grounds.What I enjoyed most was seeing where the Southern Ocean meets the Indian Ocean. If you look carefully, you can literally see the swirl in the water where the 2 meet. (Is it me or were there only 4 oceans that we learned about in elementary school? Atlantic, Pacific, Indian, Arctic? Southern Ocean is new to me.)

I've been to caves before back home (Luray Caverns) but Mammoth Cave (one of a few in the area) is so much cooler, in my opinion. Remarkably, plenty of fossils have been found in this cave. Most notably, the jaw bone of xxxxxxx is still in tact on one of the cave walls. The various stalagmites (might reach the ceiling) and stalactites (tight to the ceiling) depict the amazing evolution of the cave and passing of time. Some of the formations allow the mind to imagine something fun or disturbing depending on your point of view. I remember as a kid being wowed of the caves in Virginia, and here I am as an adult being amazed again.

The jawbone of the Zygomaturus can be seen in the cave wall at Mammoth Cave.

Margaret River generally is well known as a wine lovers paradise with plenty of award winning vineyards. But if you're like us and not so keen for wine, you should know that where there is wine, there is also cheese. And the tastings are FREE. So make sure to stop by the Margaret River Diary Company or the Yallingup Cheese Company for your share of creamy, soft, hard, salty, sweet goodness that is cheese.

If you're looking for more diverse eating objectives, then don't miss the Margaret River Farmers Market on Saturdays. I've not seen a better farmers market in my life. Everything is truly locally grown or made. And the owners and proprietors are each there to sling their goods at reasonable prices. To boot, there's free live music and random tastings as well. The atmosphere created is one that is welcoming and homey, even for a tourist from a far off country visiting a little town.

Ocean Trout Croissant, Raspberry Rhubarb Pie, & Wild Rabbit Pie

Our last stop in the region before heading back North was the Busselton Jetty and Underwater Observatory.

Out to sea and far from home! 

Fish 'n Chips on the beach

Although not as hot in temperature as the rest of Australia at this time, the beach couldn't have been more crowded. No surprise to us anymore there was plenty of free attractions for families at this oceanside neighborhood. Things like bounce houses and slides in the water or an enclosed area to protect from the marine life, this beach is fun and safe for all. But the main attraction is the Jetty. It is the longest Jetty in the Southern Hemisphere. There's even a tiny passenger train that takes you out to the end of the wooden structure at 1,800+ meters out to sea (Indian Ocean). While at the end, a visit to the Underwater Observatory is hard to turn down. As you descend to the ocean floor, there are various windows at the different depths to show the marine life at each level. It's a beautiful site to see the colors of the coral and fish and their sizes relative to the enormous ocean in which they live.

With only a couple of days left on the West coast, we spent it on an Australian holiday destination, Rottnest Island. This car-free island destination is home to quokkas, numerous marine birds, and vacationers alike. It also has the most untouched, pristine, natural beaches we've visited on this journey thus far. To get around the island it's easy to rent a bicycle and make your way from point to point. Swim, snorkel, or scuba anywhere you feel comfortable and hop back on the bike and choose another swimming hole and enjoy the solitude. Rottnest Island is accessible by fast ferry from Perth and Fremantle so there's a limited number of people on the island at any given time. That gives you plenty of freedom and space if you're trying to escape the hustle and bustle of any city (though Perth, not so stuffy, only has 2 million inhabitants).

Little Parakeet Bay

Pink Salt Lake - no swimming allowed as research is being done on the wildlife nesting in the area. Pink is the color of the feces of the birds that feed on krill. 

Our harmless furry friend the Quokka. 

Many of the bays around Rottnest Island have boats and catamarans moored.

We camped a night on the island just behind a sand dune with beach access using a tent we bought in Brisbane for $45 (60% off the normal price) at Kathmandu. Eating on the beach and going for a morning walk is easy when it's merely steps away.

Sadly our time in Australia has come to an end. But that only means our adventure continues in Southeast Asia. Our next stop for rest and relaxation and some in depth cultural experience (stay tuned) is in the town of Ubud on the island of Bali, Indonesia.

Pinky Beach just behind our campground.

Thanks Australia! You have a grip on us and make us want to see more. It's certainly a place to return for more fun, sun, and adventure. There still so much to see and do!

Cheers and g'day mate!

The Beauty of Whitsunday Islands - an alternative to Cairns

Stunning. I've seen things that I've never seen before while snorkeling... things that only exist on the Discovery Channel and in my imagination. Things that you only hear about, I've seen. It's real. It exists in the Whitsundays.

Coral reef so bright, colorful, florescent in different shapes and sizes surrounded by fish, rays, and turtles can only amaze any human on earth.

Unfortunately, our GoPro failed us on this leg of the trip and the surreal existence of the underwater world that I saw can only be replayed in my mind. I cannot share the magnificent sites of the Great Barrier Reef.

I'm so glad we made this detour as an alternative for Cairns, where most people go to see the reef. I'm certain it was less populated here with more opportunity to see the reefs, the sea animals, and the opportunity to have fun in the water. And the people we met aboard Powerplay only added to the already wonderful experience. 

Since I don't have photos to share below sea-level, here are some sights under the sun.

Aboard the catamaran Powerplay cruising around the Whitsundays. 

The men of Powerplay are ready to play in the sand.

Whitehaven Beach where during low tide the sand and water swirl. Recent rains have mixed with the typically turquoise color water. 

Down on the beach taking in the beautiful warm water.

The sun is setting...

After sunset in Caves Cove provides for a spectacular natural light show

Even the shortest of sprinkles creates double rainbows. Beauty within beauty around beauty amongst beauty. 

Travel Agencies

Are not dead. Believe it or not. I think that although most people (in the United States) think that this service is now useless due to the advent of the internet, they couldn't be more wrong. I've never seen so many travel agencies in my life until I visited New Zealand and Australia. And without a doubt, the people who work them are the most helpful in the travel universe.

We made quasi last minute reservations to go to the Whitsundays, Australia from Queenstown, NZ with very helpful fellows named Luke and Moxie at Happy Travels. Both were uber informative, answered all our questions, and set everything up to our liking with all our preferences and particulars. And believe me, we were particular (time, size, quantity, cost, etc.).

Powerplay was our catamaran around the Whitsunday Islands

Then in Australia, the various travel shops have been so helpful as to allow us to use their computers, wifi, and even just sit in the air conditioning.

But the simple count of travel agencies in these parts, I know for sure they are all doing well and prospering. The key is that we're in a part of the world where, UNLIKE people in the United States, everyone travels. So the services are necessary. There's even a place called Flight Centre (a chain) that provides booking services for travels.

These two services are amazing and it's no wonder why Australian and New Zealanders can be found anywhere in the world. Their environments allow it, promote it, and regard travel highly. That's how you become a Renaissance Man. The United States can learn a number of things from the friendliest and most well traveled people in the world.

Get out there and TRAVEL people!!!

Brissy

It’s a slang term for the city of Brisbane, which seems to be a family-centric city. The streets and buses are filled with children and families on holiday this time of year. It was specifically evident at Streets Beach where from daybreak to nightfall you can find children of any age, families of any background, and colors of the wind wading, swimming, and relaxing in the pool/beach. The sun and sand of the parklands in South Bank are congregation grounds for picnics and fun in the sun while it lasts for summer break. And it seems that every child in the water knows how to swim. There were a handful of 3 year olds just doggie paddling back and forth in front of me all morning long. Some of the older kids (4-8 yrs old) were learning how to surf on mini surfboards. It’s no wonder the grown-up Australians are so adventurous and love the water. They start out so young.

Even at Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary, children with their parents attended every single animal talk and presentation. They were pointing at the variety of birds, asking about the different marsupials, and petting the koalas. At every turn, a parent was educating their child. There was very little crying or screaming. I didn’t see one tantrum. Again, family-centric and educational.

Brissy, geographically, is seemingly larger than Sydney and Melbourne. Things are more spaced out. Neighborhoods are broader and take longer to travel through. You can certainly walk to places, but that takes much longer relative to the proximity of things in Melbourne and Sydney. Using public transportation, including the public bicycle system, around the city and suburbs is very common and efficient. From my estimation, it’s a bit more expensive though. (I learned very quickly in the taxi from the airport to our hostel.) For example, a single zone ride on the bus was nearly $5. The only benefits are the free transfers within a particular time period and how spot-on-time they are throughout the network.

Plenty of things to appreciate about Brisbane, including The Collective Market, Eat Street Market, and Powerhouse, but we’re off to the Whitsundays.

Bakery Lane

Winn Lane

The Wheel of Brisbane

One of 3 sheep herding dogs on the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary

Sheep herding demonstration

The end result is the sheep have been gathered.

Baby koalas sleeping paw in paw.

Streets Beach in the evening is a popular hangout even after the sun has set. 

Tassie

Is it wrong to say that I was not impressed with Tasmania? Yes, it had its beauty and unique traits both natural and man made. Yes, there was wonderful food in some parts. Yes, there were good people and plenty of recreation. Yes, it was comfortable and clean, generally. But... in comparison to Easter Island or the South Island of New Zealand, I have a hard time choosing to return to Tasmania. Is it fair to say that when I've spent merely 7 days on this island state? Are first impressions forever lasting? Or are return trips necessary to positively gauge a locale?

I am not a fan of the sleepy towns on Sundays. I was not wowed by the interior landscape. The scenery left you seeking something more breathtaking. The natural wonders were not as grand or as spectacular as others we've seen. But the peace and serenity of the world revolving around you as you sat still on the coastline was enchanting. And the animals we saw were cute and lovable. So as you can imagine, I'm torn about how to think.

Did we miss out on a lot? I'm sure we did. Or maybe things just didn't pique our interest. For example, I'm sure wine lovers' palates would bask in the flow of various grape notes. We are not connoisseurs but maybe we should have had a tasting. We've heard of the fresh produce, but didn't see it in the markets. Maybe we should have shopped more locally instead of Coles. But still, there is more to see that we simply just didn't have time for.

On the one hand I wasn't given a good enough reason to come back. But on the other hand, coming back would force me to find the impression I'm looking for. Maybe someday with my children I will visit again.

But in the meantime, Brisbane is calling my name.

View of Cradle Mountain from Dove Lake. The circuit around Dove Lake is about 2-3hrs. 

Iconic Dove Lake boat shed with a view of Cradle Mountain in the background.

Waterfalls along the Rainforest Walk

View of Cradle Mountain from afar on the King Billy Circuit

Fresh raspberries and raspberry fizz drink from Christmas Hills Raspberry Farm

James Boag's Draught is the finest beer in Tasmania and made in the heart of Launceston. 

Time Flies When You're Having Fun With Friends Far From Home

A lot can happen in 6 days when you’re on the road. Since the last post, we’ve left Sydney and traveled onward to the island of Tasmania!

So Long Sydney 

Our last couple of days in Sydney were great! The 4 nights we spent with our friend Dominic at his apartment were a great relief from the constant travels we have between hostels, hotels, AirBnBs, etc. His knowledge and insight to the culture, the culinary world, and the sites of Sydney came in so helpful. A personalized tour that Dom provided was key to getting us acquainted with the city and navigating our way. We really appreciated his hospitality and company.



We also had the benefit our friend Cate and her boyfriend Goran take us around for a day. From Manly Beach to Kirribilli, they also provided commentary and insight / perspective of Sydney. Our conversations shed light on things from education to living arrangements and work / life balance.

It was really comforting to have friends living locally. Having someone to turn to when you’re so far away from home is a relief and welcomed. These people encompass the true nature of Australians and represent their country / continent so well. They embody the happiness, helpfulness, and goodness we have always heard about Aussies. It was a joy to have spent time with them. And if we can repay the debt, we certainly will. Come visit us!

Sydney was special because we were also able to spend time with friends from NY who joined us for the New Year’s celebrations. We had a great few days roaming around Sydney with you guys. Have a safe journey around New Zealand and eventually back home!

I continue to stand by my love for the city of Sydney. I haven’t visited a city similar to this in my life. The combination of people, cityscape, energy, proximity to Asian food, and diversity of culture all make for a memorable experience.

Hobart / Freycinet National Park / Launceston, Tasmania – we’re pretty far south

An island colony that was historically where prisoners were sent to be far away from civilization / Australia has since become an up and coming culinary adventure island, as well as a sanctuary for various animal life. It’s somewhat amusing, since Australia started out as a penal colony as well, and is now a culinary capital in its own right.

The island has some quirky things to note.

• It seems that after 6PM, everyone disappears from the streets and heads home or indoors. 
• Everything closes early, aside from various restaurants in particular neighborhoods. 
• The towns are not very large and you can drive right through the center of town on a major highway. Literally, the speed limit just changes (reduces briefly) and you pass through the town, eventually speeding up again to continue on your way down the highway. 
• Cities are like most others we’ve visited. There is a CBD / downtown area and then the outskirts are very basic / casual. And once you exit the city limits, you’re out in the country.
• The water seems to taste a little different here, so we’ve been using bottled water for the most part. 
• The beauty of Tasmania is not inland. It is mostly on the coastline. The landlocked areas have what seems to be dry vegetation and little farm life. It’s not as beautiful as the landscapes of New Zealand. 
• Weather is a bit temperamental. One day it could be very warm and the next windy and cool. The evenings experience a good drop in the mercury but are typically calm and clear (at least in the summer). 
• Driving around the island we’ve noticed there is less cautionary signage in comparison to New Zealand. The roads are decent and just as curvy. The speed limits here are slightly higher (100kmph). 
• The MONA (Museum of Old and New Art) is AWESOME! Quirky, crazy, evokes emotion, thought-provoking, and fun. 
• Bonorong Wildlife Sanctuary is an excellent visit to see some of the wildest creatures I never thought I’d see in real life. (ie. Tasmanian Devil, Wombat, Koala, Kangaroo)
• Wineglass Bay Beach is secluded, which adds to its beauty and keeps it pristine. 
• Bridestowe Lavender Estate is remarkable. The fragrance of the area intensifies the experience and enhances the beauty of the location. 

We have yet to see Cradle Mountain, a popular site on the island. It’s something we are looking forward to. We’ll spend 2 nights there and possibly do a couple of hikes. And after that, we’re off to Brisbane.

In the meantime, here are some photos of the past few days. Enjoy!

We lived on a sailboat for a night in Lavender Bay Harbor.

Wineglass Bay lookout point is a 30-40 minute hike in Freycinet National Park.

Wineglass Bay Beach is an additional 40 minute hike down. It is one of the world's most beautiful beaches.

A view of Coles Bay

Wombat

Tasmanian Devil

Koala

Kangaroo

Bridestowe Lavender Estate

Have you see our eating adventures? If not, check them out here.