Friday, April 30. I was in Auckland for the last few days but didn't do much sight seeing. I spent most of my time talking to people and trying to figure out what to do in NZ.
On Tuesday, April 27, I was totally drenched because I was caught out in the rain. It was not pleasent. I was thinking that I should have packed a rain jacket.
On Wednesday, April 28, I walked around all the outdoor shops in the city to look for a rain jacket but I couldn't find one that I wanted in my price range. So on Thursday I took the bus and went to a bigger shopping centre...
Friday morning and I'm still in Auckland and I've still got no rain jacket! I was getting annoyed. So I decided to splash out and get myself a Gore-Tex Performance Shell, completely waterproof and windproof. Then I went to Kathmandu and bought a set of polypropylene thermals. Now I'm all set for the NZ weather.
Finally, I went to the Stray office and booked myself on a north island bus tour that is leaving tomorrow.
It's a minimum 6 day tour that starts from Auckland and finishes in Wellington. Some of the key places that we're stopping are: Hahei, Raglan, Maketu, Taupo, and Tongarito National Park and Wellington. I could also stop and stay at other places along the route too so I should do some research.
After this tour, I will need to decide if I'm going to continue to the south island or go back to auckland and fly out.
Friday, 30 April 2010
Monday, 26 April 2010
Flying on the jet plane
Monday, April 26. Travel Day. Today I flew from Sydney to Auckland. It was only a 3hr flight but I was really tired from last nights lack of sleep so I was exhasted on the plane.
There was a 2hr time difference between Sydney and Auckland so it was nearly 5pm by the time I got out of security. I was completely lost because I didn't do any research about Auckland, so I didn't know where to go from the airport. Nothing new there. Eventually I found the information booth and booked a night at YHA Internation in the city and got a ticket for the airport express.
I noticed from my booking at the YHA that New Zealand was much cheaper than Australia. I paid $25 NZD for one night in Auckland and $29.50 AUD in Bondi. AUD is worth more than NZD.
There was a 2hr time difference between Sydney and Auckland so it was nearly 5pm by the time I got out of security. I was completely lost because I didn't do any research about Auckland, so I didn't know where to go from the airport. Nothing new there. Eventually I found the information booth and booked a night at YHA Internation in the city and got a ticket for the airport express.
I noticed from my booking at the YHA that New Zealand was much cheaper than Australia. I paid $25 NZD for one night in Auckland and $29.50 AUD in Bondi. AUD is worth more than NZD.
Sunday, 25 April 2010
Anzac Day
Sunday, April 25. There was a parade in the city for Anzac Day. I think Anzac Day is the same as our Rememberance Day. The guys were planning to go see it at 8am. That was just way too early for me so I skipped it and slept in. I've decided to join them later.
I eventually came down for breakfast at 10am and I met a nice Germany lady, Ruth, in the common room. She was waiting for the airport shuttle. Her departure had been delayed for a week because of the volcanic ashes.
I mentioned that I spoke to a German man, Martin, a few days ago who was in the same situation and coincidentally, she knew him too. I was thinking, what a small world, but then, we were all living in the same hostel.
Ruth was very kind and gave me her bus ticket that was still valid for today. She said that it was originally from Martin. Random luck. ;)
Eventually, I made my way into the city and met up with the guys. They were having lunch at a Thai restaurant. Luckily, I've just eaten so I wasn't hungry. I've been avoiding Thai food since I left Thailand. After spending 30 days there and eating the same food everyday, I got a bit bored of it.
We walked around the city and wondered into an area with soldiers demonstrating whip cracking. There were a few whips available for the public to try. So I gave it a go, thinking that I was going to be easy because I remember cracking it in Perth. However, I think these ones were abit different cos I couldn't get it going and ended up whipping myself a few times and it really hurt!
The boys had a go at it too and got nothing except pain. It was really funny to watch.
When we got back to the hostel, I felt so exhasted from the lack of sleep in the last few days, I had to take a nap.
I slept for 1.5hrs without realizing and was woken up by my vibrating phone. The guys were starving and I had insisted that I was going to make dinner tonight. I made kangaroo steak, topped with fried onions and chives as well as bok chow. It was delicious.
Then I had to quicky pack and shower since I was leaving the next day. My flight was at 11:30 so I booked the 8am airport shuttle.
Tonight was my last night in Aussie land. We were up till 3am just chatting. Even Christian stayed up, which surprised us all cos he usually goes to bed at around 10:30.
We had alot of fun together in the past week and we're all flying out within days of each other. Adam and Christian are flying back to Canada on Tuesday and Steve is finally flying back to the UK on Wednesday. Steve was suppose to fly out almost a week ago but was delayed due to the volcanic ashes. Good times.
Saw this shirt in the market, thought it was amusing. :)
I eventually came down for breakfast at 10am and I met a nice Germany lady, Ruth, in the common room. She was waiting for the airport shuttle. Her departure had been delayed for a week because of the volcanic ashes.
I mentioned that I spoke to a German man, Martin, a few days ago who was in the same situation and coincidentally, she knew him too. I was thinking, what a small world, but then, we were all living in the same hostel.
Ruth was very kind and gave me her bus ticket that was still valid for today. She said that it was originally from Martin. Random luck. ;)
Eventually, I made my way into the city and met up with the guys. They were having lunch at a Thai restaurant. Luckily, I've just eaten so I wasn't hungry. I've been avoiding Thai food since I left Thailand. After spending 30 days there and eating the same food everyday, I got a bit bored of it.
We walked around the city and wondered into an area with soldiers demonstrating whip cracking. There were a few whips available for the public to try. So I gave it a go, thinking that I was going to be easy because I remember cracking it in Perth. However, I think these ones were abit different cos I couldn't get it going and ended up whipping myself a few times and it really hurt!
The boys had a go at it too and got nothing except pain. It was really funny to watch.
When we got back to the hostel, I felt so exhasted from the lack of sleep in the last few days, I had to take a nap.
I slept for 1.5hrs without realizing and was woken up by my vibrating phone. The guys were starving and I had insisted that I was going to make dinner tonight. I made kangaroo steak, topped with fried onions and chives as well as bok chow. It was delicious.
Then I had to quicky pack and shower since I was leaving the next day. My flight was at 11:30 so I booked the 8am airport shuttle.
Tonight was my last night in Aussie land. We were up till 3am just chatting. Even Christian stayed up, which surprised us all cos he usually goes to bed at around 10:30.
We had alot of fun together in the past week and we're all flying out within days of each other. Adam and Christian are flying back to Canada on Tuesday and Steve is finally flying back to the UK on Wednesday. Steve was suppose to fly out almost a week ago but was delayed due to the volcanic ashes. Good times.
Saw this shirt in the market, thought it was amusing. :)
Saturday, 24 April 2010
Aussie Rule Football
Saturday, April 24. Went to see a live AFL game in the Sydney Cricket Ground. Sydney Swans vs West Coast Eagles. We were sat on the ground level, the side near the goal posts. Tickets were only $20.
It was an exiting game and the crowd was great. Almost everyone was wearing red and white, reminds me of the flames game.
Burfo explained some of the rules to me so I kinda know what was going on. The Swans dominated the entire game and
there were alot of cheering going on.
I pushed my flight date back to attend this game. I'm glad I did cos I really enjoyed it.
Since I was in Sydney, I had to show my support for the home team. Sorry Burfo.
It was an exiting game and the crowd was great. Almost everyone was wearing red and white, reminds me of the flames game.
Burfo explained some of the rules to me so I kinda know what was going on. The Swans dominated the entire game and
there were alot of cheering going on.
I pushed my flight date back to attend this game. I'm glad I did cos I really enjoyed it.
Since I was in Sydney, I had to show my support for the home team. Sorry Burfo.
Friday, 23 April 2010
Kayaking in Sydney Harbour
Friday, April 23. Today we went on a half day kayaking trip in Sydney Harbour. We paddled to Shark Bay, but I'm not sure if there's any sharks there.
Sam, our guide, works in the YHA front desk. She took pictures for us with her water proof camera. We got some with the harbour bridge and opera house in the backdrop. I wonder how that turned out?
Everything was going well until we started to paddle in an area where lots of ferries were passing. The ripples in the water that they created were enough to make me sick and I didn't take any motion sickness pills.
We aimed for an island at that point and I was slowly paddling my way there. I was constantly fighting the urge to puke, until another ferry went by. I couldn't hold it in anymore and threw up overboard three times. I cooked myself a rare piece of kangaroo steak for breakfast this morning so I had bits of undigested raw meat floating around my boat. The fish really liked it.
Sam was too busy taking off her bikini to make a tow rope at this point, otherwise she said she would have taken a picture of my projectile vomiting. In her four years of leading the kayaking trip, I was the first one to puke.
She towed me to shore and I was so relieved. We took a quick tour of the island then Sam went back to base to send a motor boat to pick me up.
However, when I was on the boat, the engine must of cut out 10 times and we were dead on the water. I managed to keep it in this time, but I think there were nothing left inside me.
Puking was quite tiring. When I got back to the hostel I took a shower then fell asleep immediately.
Sam, our guide, works in the YHA front desk. She took pictures for us with her water proof camera. We got some with the harbour bridge and opera house in the backdrop. I wonder how that turned out?
Everything was going well until we started to paddle in an area where lots of ferries were passing. The ripples in the water that they created were enough to make me sick and I didn't take any motion sickness pills.
We aimed for an island at that point and I was slowly paddling my way there. I was constantly fighting the urge to puke, until another ferry went by. I couldn't hold it in anymore and threw up overboard three times. I cooked myself a rare piece of kangaroo steak for breakfast this morning so I had bits of undigested raw meat floating around my boat. The fish really liked it.
Sam was too busy taking off her bikini to make a tow rope at this point, otherwise she said she would have taken a picture of my projectile vomiting. In her four years of leading the kayaking trip, I was the first one to puke.
She towed me to shore and I was so relieved. We took a quick tour of the island then Sam went back to base to send a motor boat to pick me up.
However, when I was on the boat, the engine must of cut out 10 times and we were dead on the water. I managed to keep it in this time, but I think there were nothing left inside me.
Puking was quite tiring. When I got back to the hostel I took a shower then fell asleep immediately.
Thursday, 22 April 2010
More Body Surfing
Thursday, April 22. We went body surfing again on Bondi Beach. It was a bit colder than Tuesday but we still had two sessions in the water.
The waves were a bit smaller today so I didn't have as many terrifying moments as before. Still had loads of fun, that's what the holiday's all about eh?
We played taboo last night, one of my favorate games. At first, I wasn't playing very well and I blame that on bottle of cider. But as the game progressed and the amount of beer consumed by the boys increased, I started to get alot better.
Steve attempting to play Adam's didgeridoo.
The waves were a bit smaller today so I didn't have as many terrifying moments as before. Still had loads of fun, that's what the holiday's all about eh?
We played taboo last night, one of my favorate games. At first, I wasn't playing very well and I blame that on bottle of cider. But as the game progressed and the amount of beer consumed by the boys increased, I started to get alot better.
Steve attempting to play Adam's didgeridoo.
Tuesday, 20 April 2010
Body Boarding
Tuesday, April 20. I was due to fly out from Perth to Sydney today but I had to do a no show on the flight because I was already in Sydney. I tried to get a partial refund or a name change but they wouldn't do anything for me. Oh well.
It was a very nice day today. The hostel had lots of body boards and surf boards available to borrow. So we took some and went body surfing in Bondi Beach. It was alot of fun. Though I did have a terrifying look on my face whenever I saw any massive waves building behind me. Sometimes I was able to catch them but it was quite terrifying when I miss and they come slamming down on me. I feel so relieved when I pop up safely.
I always made sure that I was between the two flags cos that area was patrolled by life guards. Hey Burfo, I haven't made it onto the Bondi Rescue TV reality show yet so it's all good! :)
It was a very nice day today. The hostel had lots of body boards and surf boards available to borrow. So we took some and went body surfing in Bondi Beach. It was alot of fun. Though I did have a terrifying look on my face whenever I saw any massive waves building behind me. Sometimes I was able to catch them but it was quite terrifying when I miss and they come slamming down on me. I feel so relieved when I pop up safely.
I always made sure that I was between the two flags cos that area was patrolled by life guards. Hey Burfo, I haven't made it onto the Bondi Rescue TV reality show yet so it's all good! :)
Monday, 19 April 2010
Surfing!!!
Monday, April 19. I took it easy on the weekend but the weather wasn't too good either. Felt a bit cold to go into the waters.
I met two Canadians and an English guy, Adam and Chris, and Steve the Brit. Adam is a farm boy from Wetaskiwyn, close to Edmonton and Chris is from Grand Prarie. I rarely met any Canadians during my last almost 4 months of travel and now I met 2 from my own province. Steve is from Basingstoke. I've not been there, but I heard it's a nice place.
For the past few days, our little group had a blast together, just chilling out. We had a dinner party every night, followed by a few drinks. I made chicken stir fry one night and lamb chops another night. Adam made chicken stir fry on night too but I think mine was better.
Today, Steve and I went on a half day surfing trip to the Royal National Park. We took lessons in a private beach in the Boat Harbour. I was a natural, and was able to stand up on the board on my first go. But I did get eaten up by the waves numerious times. I had the leash wrapped around my neck when I fell once and that really freaked me out! Since I'm not very good with water (can't swim) I try to stay close to Steve cos he used to be a life guard many years ago.
I was exhasted at the end of the day. I think my arms are going to be sore tomorrow with all the paddling.
I've been eating alot of steak for breakfast in the last few days. I need to stay healthy. Doesn't that look delicious!?!
I met two Canadians and an English guy, Adam and Chris, and Steve the Brit. Adam is a farm boy from Wetaskiwyn, close to Edmonton and Chris is from Grand Prarie. I rarely met any Canadians during my last almost 4 months of travel and now I met 2 from my own province. Steve is from Basingstoke. I've not been there, but I heard it's a nice place.
For the past few days, our little group had a blast together, just chilling out. We had a dinner party every night, followed by a few drinks. I made chicken stir fry one night and lamb chops another night. Adam made chicken stir fry on night too but I think mine was better.
Today, Steve and I went on a half day surfing trip to the Royal National Park. We took lessons in a private beach in the Boat Harbour. I was a natural, and was able to stand up on the board on my first go. But I did get eaten up by the waves numerious times. I had the leash wrapped around my neck when I fell once and that really freaked me out! Since I'm not very good with water (can't swim) I try to stay close to Steve cos he used to be a life guard many years ago.
I was exhasted at the end of the day. I think my arms are going to be sore tomorrow with all the paddling.
I've been eating alot of steak for breakfast in the last few days. I need to stay healthy. Doesn't that look delicious!?!
Friday, 16 April 2010
Skateboarding in Bondi?
Friday, April 16. Today im feeling alot better. I've not done too much in the last few days though. But I went out for at least a half hour walk per day to get some fresh air and to get myself groceries to cook my healthy meals.
I figured that eating healthy with a balanced meal would help me recover faster so I've been having alot of steak for breakfast.
Today I went for a costal walk around Bondi then waited to see the sunset over the beach. The colour of the clouds are so beautiful during this time.
Then I ventured over to the skatepark and saw some amazing stunts by the local Auzzies in the skate bowl, as well as some crashes.
One of the skateboarders were really friendly. He gave me a quick lesson and I had a go on his board... Not in the bowl though cos I was struggling to balance on the flat. In the end, I was doing quite well, but not quite ready for the bowl yet.
We went out for some Mexican later and I got a lift back to the hostel in his Yute.
I figured that eating healthy with a balanced meal would help me recover faster so I've been having alot of steak for breakfast.
Today I went for a costal walk around Bondi then waited to see the sunset over the beach. The colour of the clouds are so beautiful during this time.
Then I ventured over to the skatepark and saw some amazing stunts by the local Auzzies in the skate bowl, as well as some crashes.
One of the skateboarders were really friendly. He gave me a quick lesson and I had a go on his board... Not in the bowl though cos I was struggling to balance on the flat. In the end, I was doing quite well, but not quite ready for the bowl yet.
We went out for some Mexican later and I got a lift back to the hostel in his Yute.
Wednesday, 14 April 2010
Serious resting needed
Wednesday, April 14. Eek, I should have listened to my body and taken a rest day. I was so tired in the last few days but I was still going out and doing stuff. So today I finally fell ill.
Feli is flying out to Germany tonight so I've checked in at the YHA in Bondi Beach. I couldn't see her off today cos I felt so bad. I think I'll really take it easy in the next few days. Mega sleep needed!
Feli is flying out to Germany tonight so I've checked in at the YHA in Bondi Beach. I couldn't see her off today cos I felt so bad. I think I'll really take it easy in the next few days. Mega sleep needed!
Monday, 12 April 2010
Kangaroos and Koalas are everywhere
Tuesday, April 13th. I was dead exhasted today but since Feli was going back to Germany in 2 days, I decided to go to Featherdale wildlife park with her because she wanted to touch a koala. We met Luke at the park too.
Koalas have a great life, they spend most of their lives eating and sleeping.
After the park, Feli had to go off to run an erran and I went with Luke to pick up a vehicle he recently bought, a Yute.
I got a lift back on the yute to Hendriks and we had a pizza party there. We rented Inglourious Bastards, a Terantino movie about Jewish American soldiers taking revenge on the Nazis in WWII.
There were 5 Germans, an Auzzie and me watching the film. All the Germans really liked the movie and thought it was hillarious.
Koalas have a great life, they spend most of their lives eating and sleeping.
After the park, Feli had to go off to run an erran and I went with Luke to pick up a vehicle he recently bought, a Yute.
I got a lift back on the yute to Hendriks and we had a pizza party there. We rented Inglourious Bastards, a Terantino movie about Jewish American soldiers taking revenge on the Nazis in WWII.
There were 5 Germans, an Auzzie and me watching the film. All the Germans really liked the movie and thought it was hillarious.
Blue Mountains Day 2
Monday, April 12th. I was going to stay in and take a well needed rest day but then I decided to go to Katoomba again. It took 1.5hrs to get there from Hendrik's place. I got to Katoomba at 12:30 today, ready to do some exploring. Feli and Hendrik left for the city early in the morning to do the city walking tour.
I met a Brit after getting off the train in Katoomba and hiked with him to Echo Point, then down the Giant Stairways to the three sisters. We continued on and did part of the Prince Henry hike to Leura Cascades.
The Blue Mountains looked amazing.
Leura cascades, I was expecting to see a large waterfall, but...
I met a Brit after getting off the train in Katoomba and hiked with him to Echo Point, then down the Giant Stairways to the three sisters. We continued on and did part of the Prince Henry hike to Leura Cascades.
The Blue Mountains looked amazing.
Leura cascades, I was expecting to see a large waterfall, but...
Katoomba - Blue Mountains
Sunday, April 11th. Feli and I took the train out to Penrith, to stay at Hendrik's place for a few days. We left the hostel at 10:30 and arrived into Penrith at 13:00.
I wanted to go to the Blue Mountains in Katoomba, but I didn't realize that it would take another 1.5hrs to get there from Penrith by train. I met up with Luke a bit later and by the time we got to the Blue Mountains, it was 16:30 and the sun was going to set in an hour.
We were not dressed for the weather. It was really cold in Katoomba and we were still in our summer wear.
We had to walk to the Echo Point to view the three sisters because all the tour buses stopped running. The sunset view over the three sisters were amazing.
We had dinner at The Old City Bank restaurant. I had the best pizza ever.
Sunset view of the three sisters.
I wanted to go to the Blue Mountains in Katoomba, but I didn't realize that it would take another 1.5hrs to get there from Penrith by train. I met up with Luke a bit later and by the time we got to the Blue Mountains, it was 16:30 and the sun was going to set in an hour.
We were not dressed for the weather. It was really cold in Katoomba and we were still in our summer wear.
We had to walk to the Echo Point to view the three sisters because all the tour buses stopped running. The sunset view over the three sisters were amazing.
We had dinner at The Old City Bank restaurant. I had the best pizza ever.
Sunset view of the three sisters.
Saturday, 10 April 2010
So very tired!
Saturday, April 10th. Today we were going to take a slow day. I had enough of our room and requested a room switch. I should have done that earlier.
We chilled out at botanic garden and took a nap on the grass. Then I tried to get AFL tickets for the game tonight but all the bronze level tickets were sold out!
We went to Chinatown and I introduced Feli to roasted duck and pork. That was so delicious! Yummy, it's making me hungry just writing about it!
I thought it was going to be a rest day but after we met up with Sebastian, we walked for a few hours searching for postcards. If I knew that he was such a picky guy, I would of headed back to hostel myself. I guess a bit of exercise wouldn't do me harm.
By the time I got back to my bed in the hostel, I fell asleep straight away but it was only 7pm. I slept for an hour without even realising it. Not sure if I should have done that cos I had a hard time falling asleep in the evening that night.
We chilled out at botanic garden and took a nap on the grass. Then I tried to get AFL tickets for the game tonight but all the bronze level tickets were sold out!
We went to Chinatown and I introduced Feli to roasted duck and pork. That was so delicious! Yummy, it's making me hungry just writing about it!
I thought it was going to be a rest day but after we met up with Sebastian, we walked for a few hours searching for postcards. If I knew that he was such a picky guy, I would of headed back to hostel myself. I guess a bit of exercise wouldn't do me harm.
By the time I got back to my bed in the hostel, I fell asleep straight away but it was only 7pm. I slept for an hour without even realising it. Not sure if I should have done that cos I had a hard time falling asleep in the evening that night.
Friday, 9 April 2010
Manly Beach, BBQ, Ivy... Exhasted!!!
Friday, April 9th. Feli and I took the ferry over to Manly beach today and met up with Sebastian (German boy from our hostel) there.
We laid in the warm sun for a few hours and took a nap there. We think that sleeping on the beach in a swag was better than our hostel.
It was much warmer today than yesterday. I tried to cover up my face and arms but left my legs exposed. I think my legs got a bit of sun burn afterwards.
We heard about the free use of BBQs on this beach so we went and picked up 12 kangaroo kababs, then searched for the barbie. It took us a while to find the barbie (got lost 4 times) but we got there eventually. It was in Little Manly Beach. We were lucky that someone was using it when we got there because we had no way of cleaning it and no oil to cook with. Advanced planning, what's that?
We caught the evening ferry and rushed back to the hostel to change into our party wear. We met up with Luke (Aussie boy from the rock tour), walked around The Rocks area, then had a drink in the pub. The Rocks area is a must see place in Sydney but I think it's over rated.
Later on, we met up with Hendrick (German boy from the rock tour and Feli's classmate) and his friends at the Ivy. It seem like this was the place to be on a Friday night cos everyone was here. There were no room to move around. Bumped into Sebastian and his friends here too.
I had a couple more rum and cokes but unfortunetly my alcohol tolerance has increased a bit cos I'm not feeling the buzz very much. Either that or they've watered it down. Bloody expensive for the drinks though!
We were there for ages and finally left after 3am. Feli and I caught the taxi back to our hostel. Luke and Hendrick lives outside the city and had to catch the train back. I later heard that they missed their train and had to wait an hour in the station for the next one. They probably didn't make it back till 6am!
We laid in the warm sun for a few hours and took a nap there. We think that sleeping on the beach in a swag was better than our hostel.
It was much warmer today than yesterday. I tried to cover up my face and arms but left my legs exposed. I think my legs got a bit of sun burn afterwards.
We heard about the free use of BBQs on this beach so we went and picked up 12 kangaroo kababs, then searched for the barbie. It took us a while to find the barbie (got lost 4 times) but we got there eventually. It was in Little Manly Beach. We were lucky that someone was using it when we got there because we had no way of cleaning it and no oil to cook with. Advanced planning, what's that?
We caught the evening ferry and rushed back to the hostel to change into our party wear. We met up with Luke (Aussie boy from the rock tour), walked around The Rocks area, then had a drink in the pub. The Rocks area is a must see place in Sydney but I think it's over rated.
Later on, we met up with Hendrick (German boy from the rock tour and Feli's classmate) and his friends at the Ivy. It seem like this was the place to be on a Friday night cos everyone was here. There were no room to move around. Bumped into Sebastian and his friends here too.
I had a couple more rum and cokes but unfortunetly my alcohol tolerance has increased a bit cos I'm not feeling the buzz very much. Either that or they've watered it down. Bloody expensive for the drinks though!
We were there for ages and finally left after 3am. Feli and I caught the taxi back to our hostel. Luke and Hendrick lives outside the city and had to catch the train back. I later heard that they missed their train and had to wait an hour in the station for the next one. They probably didn't make it back till 6am!
Thursday, 8 April 2010
Sydney - Bondai Beach
Thursday, April 8th. Very early flight out to Sydney this morning. Meg's dad was so nice, he took us to the airport at 5:30am.
We checked into the worst hostel ever and paid for 3 nights at this place. Ask me about it when I get back.
We dropped off our stuff and headed over to Bondai Beach. It was a pretty cloudy day so with the winds, it was a bit cold to go in for a dip. We sat on the beach for ages, checking out the view.
We went for a snack in McDonalds and by the time we finished, it was dark and pouring out! We still had to catch the bus and train back to our hostel. We were so cold, we had to cover ourselves up with our towels.
Luckily, the rain stopped after we got off the bus. Our hostel is about 10 mins walk from Kings Cross station.
I cooked us a kangaroo filet steak each and Feli made us some Greek salad. That was the first and last meal that I'm going to cook in that hostel. I spoke to several people in the hostel that have stayed there for a long time. One has been living there for over a year! We're struggling to stay there on my first day!!!
We went to a club with a few long term hostel residents. It was a special foam party today. I was too tired to enjoy myself and after a glass of wine, I was nearly sleeping in the seat. So I had to leave Feli to get some shut eye. I got back at midnight.
Feli wasn't too pleased about me leaving. I'm sure she got over it pretty quick. I didn't want to be boring but I was beat. I'm glad Feli still had a good time though, she came back at 5:30am.
Da beach!!!
We checked into the worst hostel ever and paid for 3 nights at this place. Ask me about it when I get back.
We dropped off our stuff and headed over to Bondai Beach. It was a pretty cloudy day so with the winds, it was a bit cold to go in for a dip. We sat on the beach for ages, checking out the view.
We went for a snack in McDonalds and by the time we finished, it was dark and pouring out! We still had to catch the bus and train back to our hostel. We were so cold, we had to cover ourselves up with our towels.
Luckily, the rain stopped after we got off the bus. Our hostel is about 10 mins walk from Kings Cross station.
I cooked us a kangaroo filet steak each and Feli made us some Greek salad. That was the first and last meal that I'm going to cook in that hostel. I spoke to several people in the hostel that have stayed there for a long time. One has been living there for over a year! We're struggling to stay there on my first day!!!
We went to a club with a few long term hostel residents. It was a special foam party today. I was too tired to enjoy myself and after a glass of wine, I was nearly sleeping in the seat. So I had to leave Feli to get some shut eye. I got back at midnight.
Feli wasn't too pleased about me leaving. I'm sure she got over it pretty quick. I didn't want to be boring but I was beat. I'm glad Feli still had a good time though, she came back at 5:30am.
Da beach!!!
Wednesday, 7 April 2010
Eureka
Wednesday, April 7th. The hostel doesn't give refunds! I was running around in the morning trying to sell my bed off because Meg's dad offered to let us stay for the night, then drive us to the airport the next day. After I sold my bed at a lost, I went to the Southern Cross station and sold my ticket to the airport. I wasn't able to recuperate the full cost of the items but at least I got some back.
I met up with the girls at noon and we headed over to the Eureka building. We saw the birds eye view of the city from the top of this building.
Today was Meg's first day at work in a new job so she left us at 13:00. Feli and I didn't stay much more longer in Eureka. We went for more shopping and Feli helped me pick out a party outfit. It was another marathon of shopping. I finally gave in and bought a pair of jeans. Now I think my bag will 7kg!
I'm afriad that my bag may no longer cut it because by the time I land in New Zealand, it'll be winter and I'll need some winter clothes. It's going to be a disaster!!! Anyway, I'll think about it later.
We met up with Meg in the evening and went back to hers. Her parents had prepared a barbie meal. Delicious. I loove barbie meat. Ben came over as well and I made fun of his accent again. Kiwis like to say 'eh' alot. They use it more than us Canadians.
Meg's dad just came back from a trip to Canada, including Calgary so we spent the whole night talking about that. What a lovely family.
I met up with the girls at noon and we headed over to the Eureka building. We saw the birds eye view of the city from the top of this building.
Today was Meg's first day at work in a new job so she left us at 13:00. Feli and I didn't stay much more longer in Eureka. We went for more shopping and Feli helped me pick out a party outfit. It was another marathon of shopping. I finally gave in and bought a pair of jeans. Now I think my bag will 7kg!
I'm afriad that my bag may no longer cut it because by the time I land in New Zealand, it'll be winter and I'll need some winter clothes. It's going to be a disaster!!! Anyway, I'll think about it later.
We met up with Meg in the evening and went back to hers. Her parents had prepared a barbie meal. Delicious. I loove barbie meat. Ben came over as well and I made fun of his accent again. Kiwis like to say 'eh' alot. They use it more than us Canadians.
Meg's dad just came back from a trip to Canada, including Calgary so we spent the whole night talking about that. What a lovely family.
Tuesday, 6 April 2010
Back in Melbourne
Monday April 5th. We spent all day driving back from Port Campbell. We were on the Great Ocean Road for the first half of the journey. The lanes were very narrow, whindy and it was very slow going. Cliff on one side and on coming traffic on the other. Ahhhh, are we going to make it back alive?
Meg did a brilliant job behind the wheel. I was glad that I didn't have to drive so I was able to soak up every moment of the gorgeous scenary.
Tuesday, April 6th. Feli and I stayed in Meg's place last night. Her parents were not back from their holiday until today so she gave us her room. We booked our flight out to Sydney and will depart on Thursday, April 8 at 6:50.
Early morning start today, left for the city at 10:00. I checked into a hostel in the city for 2 nights and met up with the girls in the Victoria Market. We spent the next 5 hours walking around the city, shopping. I must admit, shopping was not my thing, I just went along on the ride. I haven't spent this much time shopping ever in my life. It was a marathon.
Then Meg took us to chinatown for some tasty dumpling dinner. This place was so popular, we had to queue for a table and when we left, there was still a queue.
There was a comedy festival in Melbourne for the next two weeks. We caught one of the free shows in the backpackers house. I felt bad cos I felt asleep a few times. It was a really long day and I was exhasted. Some of them weren't funny at all. It was 23:30 by the time the show ended and it was pouring out. Arg! I took the tram back and was pretty wet by the time I got back.
Meg did a brilliant job behind the wheel. I was glad that I didn't have to drive so I was able to soak up every moment of the gorgeous scenary.
Tuesday, April 6th. Feli and I stayed in Meg's place last night. Her parents were not back from their holiday until today so she gave us her room. We booked our flight out to Sydney and will depart on Thursday, April 8 at 6:50.
Early morning start today, left for the city at 10:00. I checked into a hostel in the city for 2 nights and met up with the girls in the Victoria Market. We spent the next 5 hours walking around the city, shopping. I must admit, shopping was not my thing, I just went along on the ride. I haven't spent this much time shopping ever in my life. It was a marathon.
Then Meg took us to chinatown for some tasty dumpling dinner. This place was so popular, we had to queue for a table and when we left, there was still a queue.
There was a comedy festival in Melbourne for the next two weeks. We caught one of the free shows in the backpackers house. I felt bad cos I felt asleep a few times. It was a really long day and I was exhasted. Some of them weren't funny at all. It was 23:30 by the time the show ended and it was pouring out. Arg! I took the tram back and was pretty wet by the time I got back.
Friday, 2 April 2010
12 Apostles, Emu, London Bridge
Saturday, April 3rd. We went to the 12 Apostles in the morning.
The 12 Apostles were amazing. The name was a bit misleading though because there wasn't 12 of them anymore. A few of them fell over so I think there's only 7 or 8 left standing. But still, it was an amazing site. We were also so close to it that we went back 2 more times.
On Sunday, we went back for the sunset view. That's around the same time that the penguins swim in as well. It was bloody cold though.
On Monday, we went back again because it was a really nice sunny day. So we wanted to snap a few more photos on a clear day.
The 12 Apostles. Beautiful site ain't it?
Wild Emu in the Tower Hill Reserve. We drove an hour to this place and there was suppose to be load of emus around, even coming up to your car. That's what Meg's dad was telling us. But after we got there, they were nowhere to be seen. We walked around for ages looking for them. We were about to give up and walk to the car, then suddenly a couple of them showed up.
This is the London Bridge. A few years ago, the middle part of the rock broke off and left a tourist stranded on the other side of the rock. They had to get air lifted out. Imagine being that tourist. Alright, free helicopter ride!!!
The 12 Apostles were amazing. The name was a bit misleading though because there wasn't 12 of them anymore. A few of them fell over so I think there's only 7 or 8 left standing. But still, it was an amazing site. We were also so close to it that we went back 2 more times.
On Sunday, we went back for the sunset view. That's around the same time that the penguins swim in as well. It was bloody cold though.
On Monday, we went back again because it was a really nice sunny day. So we wanted to snap a few more photos on a clear day.
The 12 Apostles. Beautiful site ain't it?
Wild Emu in the Tower Hill Reserve. We drove an hour to this place and there was suppose to be load of emus around, even coming up to your car. That's what Meg's dad was telling us. But after we got there, they were nowhere to be seen. We walked around for ages looking for them. We were about to give up and walk to the car, then suddenly a couple of them showed up.
This is the London Bridge. A few years ago, the middle part of the rock broke off and left a tourist stranded on the other side of the rock. They had to get air lifted out. Imagine being that tourist. Alright, free helicopter ride!!!
Thursday, 1 April 2010
Melbourne
Thursday, April Fools Day. I got into Melbourne on Monday at 7:30am from Darwin. I went from being in 36 degrees to 20 degrees and I was freezing. I had to put on almost everything I owned. For the past 3 months, I've been in +30 temperature.
On Monday and Tuesday, I spent my time in the city, soaking in the sights. Then on Wednesday and Thursday, I watched the entire Season 2 of Angel plus a quarter of season 3. I needed a few days to chill out and Felicita had all the DVDs.
I didn't spend all my time in front of the telly. I went out shopping and got ingredients to make pho (Vietnamese beef noodle soup) for Thursday.
Reading room in the library. The ceiling is very high.
Remember these things? Ive not seen one of these since elementry school.
Federation square. There's a huge tourist information centre here and live music was on when I was there. Lots of people with their laptops and iphone hang out here for the free wifi.
Melbourne harbour. Lovely place to chill out and watch sports games on the large outdoor screen. Harbour outlet is across from this. Can spend hours shopping there.
On Monday and Tuesday, I spent my time in the city, soaking in the sights. Then on Wednesday and Thursday, I watched the entire Season 2 of Angel plus a quarter of season 3. I needed a few days to chill out and Felicita had all the DVDs.
I didn't spend all my time in front of the telly. I went out shopping and got ingredients to make pho (Vietnamese beef noodle soup) for Thursday.
Reading room in the library. The ceiling is very high.
Remember these things? Ive not seen one of these since elementry school.
Federation square. There's a huge tourist information centre here and live music was on when I was there. Lots of people with their laptops and iphone hang out here for the free wifi.
Melbourne harbour. Lovely place to chill out and watch sports games on the large outdoor screen. Harbour outlet is across from this. Can spend hours shopping there.
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