Cairns is beautiful! I've just arrived and already I've booked myself onto a diving course that starts tomorrow! I had a little wonder through to the front and the moutains in the distance are stunning. The sea water is incredibly still, apparently the reef prevents the waves reaching shore. Its much warmer up here, 30 degrees cool!
Anyway, my course starts first thing tomorrow morning, for five days, two nights of which are spent on board a luxurious boat. It sounds great, although I'm praying its not too rocky at night! According to the scheldule there's a night dive included as well. Sounds fantastic, I'm really excited. I'll update you when I return!
Thursday, 26 April 2007
Tuesday, 24 April 2007
Tuesday 24th April
Don't laugh...... it's raining! I went for a walk this morning, however the cloud is really low, therefore visability is not good. Hence I had to shorten my walk and, what's more, missed out on some fantastic views. I'm really disappointed. Anyway, I have checked the forcast and it's supposed to be a little brighter tomorrow so, fingers crossed, I'll complete my walk tomorrow. Instead I walked, in the rain, to the Edge Cinema and watched a documentary about the Blue Mountains. The film was incredible, shown on a huge screen, apparently the size of a 6 storey building. So at least I have seen some views today!!! For the remainder of the afternoon I am going to read and relax, as there isn't much more to do in this town. Ah well it can't be perfect weather everyday I suppose (although Cairns is supposed to be 30 degrees), I'm heading back to Sydney in the morning and then fly to Cairns on Thursday.
Monday, 23 April 2007
Monday 23rd April
Blue Mountains
So this morning I left a warm Newcastle Harbour, took a bus, then a train and now I'm in the heart of the Blue Mountains. It's much cooler here and looks like we're going to have a spot of rain, so really perfect walking conditions! I'm staying in the YHA which is absolutely amazing compared to other hostels I've been to recently. Earlier I had a cup of tea one of the local cafes, which incidently really doesn't taste like English tea. It's bizarre how tea can taste so horrible when you leave the UK!!!! Anyway, then I took one of the short trails to the Leura Cascades. The views are spectacular, even with the mist coming over! So tonight I'm planning to relax in front of the telly and then tomorrow I have a route sorted, which involves a cable car at one point. I plan to take many photos so I'll upload them tomorrow evening. Until then...!
So this morning I left a warm Newcastle Harbour, took a bus, then a train and now I'm in the heart of the Blue Mountains. It's much cooler here and looks like we're going to have a spot of rain, so really perfect walking conditions! I'm staying in the YHA which is absolutely amazing compared to other hostels I've been to recently. Earlier I had a cup of tea one of the local cafes, which incidently really doesn't taste like English tea. It's bizarre how tea can taste so horrible when you leave the UK!!!! Anyway, then I took one of the short trails to the Leura Cascades. The views are spectacular, even with the mist coming over! So tonight I'm planning to relax in front of the telly and then tomorrow I have a route sorted, which involves a cable car at one point. I plan to take many photos so I'll upload them tomorrow evening. Until then...!
Sunday, 22 April 2007
Sunday 22nd April
Okay I've a lot to update. I'm currently in Newcastle, approximately four hours North of Sydney. However, yesterday I was in Port Macquarie.
Port Macquarie was a beautiful town developed around a small Port. I only spent one night there, but managed to see most of the sights. The town is peaceful and has not been over-developed, thus keeping its character. It was, originally, founded in 1821 for slack convicts who found Sydney too easy! After a few days travelling I decide to do a recommended coastal walk down to Lighthouse Bay. The views were amazing, there are so many small coves, unspoilt and deserted. After absorbing some rays I wandered back through the town to the Koala Hospital. The hospital has been founded to care for the urban koalas that get injured in the streets surrounding the port. They have a few permenant residents, however, the majority are rehabilitated and released. Koala bears are really cute, you can get incredibly close to these bears. Unfortunately I missed the feeding time tour, due my bus time. Anyway, I headed back along the creek and sat on the sea front eating some fresh fish and chips! You can't beat that!
So today I'm in Newcastle. Newcastle is a city also developed around a port and, in the past, has been a centre for steel works. There isn't much to report, other than the city is much like any other! I walked accross to Nobby's head, a pier out into the port, this morning. There was an organised kids triathalon around the pier this morning, so I watched for a while. After wandering around Port Scratchley I caught the bus to Blackbutt reserve. This is where there were many kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and many other birds and animals. It is amazing to see these creatures up close! I walked back through the forrest and back to the hostel. Unfortunately there isn't much more to see here. Tomorrow I'm heading to the Blue Mountains, which means a bus to Sydney and then train up into the mountains.
Port Macquarie was a beautiful town developed around a small Port. I only spent one night there, but managed to see most of the sights. The town is peaceful and has not been over-developed, thus keeping its character. It was, originally, founded in 1821 for slack convicts who found Sydney too easy! After a few days travelling I decide to do a recommended coastal walk down to Lighthouse Bay. The views were amazing, there are so many small coves, unspoilt and deserted. After absorbing some rays I wandered back through the town to the Koala Hospital. The hospital has been founded to care for the urban koalas that get injured in the streets surrounding the port. They have a few permenant residents, however, the majority are rehabilitated and released. Koala bears are really cute, you can get incredibly close to these bears. Unfortunately I missed the feeding time tour, due my bus time. Anyway, I headed back along the creek and sat on the sea front eating some fresh fish and chips! You can't beat that!
So today I'm in Newcastle. Newcastle is a city also developed around a port and, in the past, has been a centre for steel works. There isn't much to report, other than the city is much like any other! I walked accross to Nobby's head, a pier out into the port, this morning. There was an organised kids triathalon around the pier this morning, so I watched for a while. After wandering around Port Scratchley I caught the bus to Blackbutt reserve. This is where there were many kangaroos, koalas, wallabies and many other birds and animals. It is amazing to see these creatures up close! I walked back through the forrest and back to the hostel. Unfortunately there isn't much more to see here. Tomorrow I'm heading to the Blue Mountains, which means a bus to Sydney and then train up into the mountains.
Thursday, 19 April 2007
Thursday 19th April
I finally did it!!! I went surfing!!!! Or, that is, attempted to surf!!!!
I spent the last few days on the Gold Coast, in a resort called Surfers Paradise. The hostel I stayed in was a converted Motel, so each room had its own little kitchen and bathroom. It was great, although no air conditioning! It was a little warm at night!
So, I had a lesson. Managed to get up onto my knees but no further I'm afraid! It was really difficult. I spent most of the time off the board and must have swallowed a gallon of water! Anyway I gave it a go. I need to practice!! So watch out The Gower, when I'm back!!!
This morning I caught a bus to Byron Bay. It is beautiful here. The local residents, apparently, have petitioned against development. Therefore, it has a few tourist shops, but all buildings are wooden bungalow structure and in kept with the location. Earlier I followed the coastal path around to Cape Byron. There were dolphins swimming in the shallow water, I attempted to take a photo, but I don't think it will come out. Round the coast further was a working lighthouse and then the path meandered through the bush back to the town. The views were spectacular, not many had ventured away from the beach so it was very tranquill and peaceful. As there isn't much more than the beach here I then headed to the sandy shore and finished my book! There is a nice coastal breeze today and, I believe, temperatures only reached 28 degrees, so nice and cool!
Tomorrow I catch the bus to Port Macquarie, there's a koala hospital there which I'd like to visit.
I spent the last few days on the Gold Coast, in a resort called Surfers Paradise. The hostel I stayed in was a converted Motel, so each room had its own little kitchen and bathroom. It was great, although no air conditioning! It was a little warm at night!
So, I had a lesson. Managed to get up onto my knees but no further I'm afraid! It was really difficult. I spent most of the time off the board and must have swallowed a gallon of water! Anyway I gave it a go. I need to practice!! So watch out The Gower, when I'm back!!!
This morning I caught a bus to Byron Bay. It is beautiful here. The local residents, apparently, have petitioned against development. Therefore, it has a few tourist shops, but all buildings are wooden bungalow structure and in kept with the location. Earlier I followed the coastal path around to Cape Byron. There were dolphins swimming in the shallow water, I attempted to take a photo, but I don't think it will come out. Round the coast further was a working lighthouse and then the path meandered through the bush back to the town. The views were spectacular, not many had ventured away from the beach so it was very tranquill and peaceful. As there isn't much more than the beach here I then headed to the sandy shore and finished my book! There is a nice coastal breeze today and, I believe, temperatures only reached 28 degrees, so nice and cool!
Tomorrow I catch the bus to Port Macquarie, there's a koala hospital there which I'd like to visit.
Tuesday, 17 April 2007
Tuesday 17th April
Brisbane.
What a journey!?! It took 22 hours of bus travel to get here so I headed straight to bed when I arrived. Luckily the hostel was around the corner from the bus terminal.
So I've spent today wandering the streets of Brisbane. I have to say, I'm very relieved I only booked one night here, there isn't that much to see and do. Brisbane is a very busy, growing city like any other city I've visited. There are many areas being developed and, unfortunately, lacks character. I've walked around the CBD, where I'm told all the 'sights' are, first I visited the City Hall. This had an art display in and a clock tower which you could catch the lift up behind the face. I did this, probably not the best time though, just as it stroke 10:45am!!! It was rather loud Westminster type chime! There was a great view of the city from the top, however I wasn't impressed, no outstanding features I'm afraid and all incredibly flat.
Next I wandered down to the Anzac square. This was small but quaint and nice to sit in the shade for a while. Saw St Stephen's Catholic Cathedral. Then went to admire the parliament buildings. I was able to see the Old Parliament house (a Victorian style building), but not the recent building as Parliament was in session.
Brisbane was developed on the banks of the Brisbane River. So I caught a quick, I mean quick, ferry accross to the south bank. I was amazed to see a man-made beach on the south bank. It was incredible, it even had life guards.
In the heat of the day I decided to go to the mueseum, hoping to find out a little about Brisbane itself, there was a display on Queensland, but nothing about Brisbane. I did sit and watch a documentary about the Australian Ballet Company and also saw some of the costumes that they have used. This was interesting after seeing them in Sydney briefly.
I have to say, I think I've seen most of Brisbane, so I'm catching the bus to Surfers Paradise, where I plan to learn to surf!!!!
What a journey!?! It took 22 hours of bus travel to get here so I headed straight to bed when I arrived. Luckily the hostel was around the corner from the bus terminal.
So I've spent today wandering the streets of Brisbane. I have to say, I'm very relieved I only booked one night here, there isn't that much to see and do. Brisbane is a very busy, growing city like any other city I've visited. There are many areas being developed and, unfortunately, lacks character. I've walked around the CBD, where I'm told all the 'sights' are, first I visited the City Hall. This had an art display in and a clock tower which you could catch the lift up behind the face. I did this, probably not the best time though, just as it stroke 10:45am!!! It was rather loud Westminster type chime! There was a great view of the city from the top, however I wasn't impressed, no outstanding features I'm afraid and all incredibly flat.
Next I wandered down to the Anzac square. This was small but quaint and nice to sit in the shade for a while. Saw St Stephen's Catholic Cathedral. Then went to admire the parliament buildings. I was able to see the Old Parliament house (a Victorian style building), but not the recent building as Parliament was in session.
Brisbane was developed on the banks of the Brisbane River. So I caught a quick, I mean quick, ferry accross to the south bank. I was amazed to see a man-made beach on the south bank. It was incredible, it even had life guards.
In the heat of the day I decided to go to the mueseum, hoping to find out a little about Brisbane itself, there was a display on Queensland, but nothing about Brisbane. I did sit and watch a documentary about the Australian Ballet Company and also saw some of the costumes that they have used. This was interesting after seeing them in Sydney briefly.
I have to say, I think I've seen most of Brisbane, so I'm catching the bus to Surfers Paradise, where I plan to learn to surf!!!!
Sunday, 15 April 2007
Sunday 15th April
I thought I'd drop a quick message before I catch the bus to Brisbane. I've, yet again, had a very busy day. I bagan by going to the National Mint, which incidently was opened by the Duke of Edinburgh in 1966, when the dollar was introduced. During my whistlestop tour I made my own one dollar coin with a picture of the Sydney Harbour Bridge on, it looks pretty good if you ask me! I didn't have to do much, just press a few buttons!
Then I took a bus to the Asutralian Institute for Sport. It is magnificant, the facilities are unbelievable. Booked onto a tour so managed to see all the facilities. The new training pool, just built last year, cost 17 million dollars to build. It has video cameras at all angles so that your biomechanics can be watched in detail, then you can watch it yourself on the poolside screen! Well no wonder they have such a reputation for swimming!!!
On the way back I passed the national hockey stadium. So I decided to pop in and watch a game. It is so much faster on the water based pitch. Although I wasn't too impressed by the level of hockey I watched. Very aggressive but loads of stick tackles! The beginning of the match impressed me remind me to tell you when I get back.
I'm running out of time so I'm going to grab something to eat and then head up to the bus station. Solong Canberra and hello Brisbane!!!!
Then I took a bus to the Asutralian Institute for Sport. It is magnificant, the facilities are unbelievable. Booked onto a tour so managed to see all the facilities. The new training pool, just built last year, cost 17 million dollars to build. It has video cameras at all angles so that your biomechanics can be watched in detail, then you can watch it yourself on the poolside screen! Well no wonder they have such a reputation for swimming!!!
On the way back I passed the national hockey stadium. So I decided to pop in and watch a game. It is so much faster on the water based pitch. Although I wasn't too impressed by the level of hockey I watched. Very aggressive but loads of stick tackles! The beginning of the match impressed me remind me to tell you when I get back.
I'm running out of time so I'm going to grab something to eat and then head up to the bus station. Solong Canberra and hello Brisbane!!!!
Saturday, 14 April 2007
Saturday 14th April
Well I survived a 19 and a half bus trip to Canberra. Arrived at 6am this morning. Managed to have a quick shower in the YHA before hitting the city.
Did you know that Canberra is the Nation's capital? It is a very new city, following a referendum in 1901 they decided to develop a new city between Sydney and Melbourne (to prevent arguements) and held a competition to design the new city. Griffen won the competition and therefore in 1911 Canberra was officially opened. Its based upon a circular theme close to the lake. Although everything is new it does have a very tasteful design with clean buildings and almost American wide roads.
So first thing this morning I decided to climb the Black Mountain, which I don't think it actually classifies as a mountain being only 811feet above sea level, however that's what it's name is! It was tough finding the path, it was through the National Botanic Gardens, I did find a map in the end! At one point I nearly turned back though as there was a sign warning you that there are traps around to capture the snakes. However, there were others walking up this track so I power walked up then ran back down. Apparently it's supposed to take 2 nearly 3 hours to climb, well I was up and down in 45minutes!!! Maybe you should put signs up like that in the Longmynd hike I'll half my time that way!!!
So then, with my trusted Lonely Planet, I walked the Parliament Triangle, first heading to the Expedition Centre. This is where I learnt about the history of Canberra. Outside the centre was a 176metre water fountain in the lake commemorating Captain Cook, with a metal globe mapping all his expedition routes. Quite extraordinary, but interesting. Continuing up Capital Hill I explored the Parliament house and then Old Parliament house both on the same strip. I followed the trail along the banks of the river and ended up at the Australian War Memorial. I was expecting a statue, no, it was a huge building with expeditions about the first and second world war, quite a suprise. By this point I was feeling pretty tired so I headed back to the YHA and had a dip (because I can't call it a swim, the pool was far too small) in the supposedly heated indoor pool!!!
Tomorrow I travel to Brisbane in the evening but before I go there is another mountain/hill I want to climb and the national institute of sport is here so I'd thought I'd go and explore!
Did you know that Canberra is the Nation's capital? It is a very new city, following a referendum in 1901 they decided to develop a new city between Sydney and Melbourne (to prevent arguements) and held a competition to design the new city. Griffen won the competition and therefore in 1911 Canberra was officially opened. Its based upon a circular theme close to the lake. Although everything is new it does have a very tasteful design with clean buildings and almost American wide roads.
So first thing this morning I decided to climb the Black Mountain, which I don't think it actually classifies as a mountain being only 811feet above sea level, however that's what it's name is! It was tough finding the path, it was through the National Botanic Gardens, I did find a map in the end! At one point I nearly turned back though as there was a sign warning you that there are traps around to capture the snakes. However, there were others walking up this track so I power walked up then ran back down. Apparently it's supposed to take 2 nearly 3 hours to climb, well I was up and down in 45minutes!!! Maybe you should put signs up like that in the Longmynd hike I'll half my time that way!!!
So then, with my trusted Lonely Planet, I walked the Parliament Triangle, first heading to the Expedition Centre. This is where I learnt about the history of Canberra. Outside the centre was a 176metre water fountain in the lake commemorating Captain Cook, with a metal globe mapping all his expedition routes. Quite extraordinary, but interesting. Continuing up Capital Hill I explored the Parliament house and then Old Parliament house both on the same strip. I followed the trail along the banks of the river and ended up at the Australian War Memorial. I was expecting a statue, no, it was a huge building with expeditions about the first and second world war, quite a suprise. By this point I was feeling pretty tired so I headed back to the YHA and had a dip (because I can't call it a swim, the pool was far too small) in the supposedly heated indoor pool!!!
Tomorrow I travel to Brisbane in the evening but before I go there is another mountain/hill I want to climb and the national institute of sport is here so I'd thought I'd go and explore!
Friday, 13 April 2007
Friday 13th April
Adelaide
Wow I can't believe that I'm ready to leave aready, I've been in Adelaide three days now and heading to Canberra today. It has been boiling though, the temperature hit 33 degrees yesterday and it's supposed to be Autumn! First day here I got off the bus at 5am and managed to get in the hostel early to dump my bag, then I hit the sights. I spent most of the day crossing from one shaded area to another! Wandered through the main streets and around the art gallery and mueseum (it was nice and cool in there). Used my loney planet book to do a recommended walk along the river and through the Botanic Gardens, then to finish my first day I took the tram to the beach! The beaches are so white and clear its beautiful.
I booked myself on a trip to Kangeroo Island yesterday, which meant yet another early start. Caught the ferry to the Island and explored the Island. Highlight was walking through the forest searching for koala bears. They are really hard to spot especially in the heat they sleep high up in the trees. Also managed to see some Australian Sea Lions on a protected beach, they were all fast asleep as they spend three days swimming in search of food, no sleep due to risk of shark attack, then they return to land to sleep. Caught a glimpse of a few kangaroos however they spend most of the day in the bush and the come out at dusk to feed. Although there was a very tame kangaroo at the cafe we had lunch at, it even tolerated stroking! Its a beautiful island suffering from drought though, it hasn't seen rain since July last year. Eventually hit the sack at 11pm last night.
Well this morning I catch the bus to Canberra. Its going to take until 6am to get there so I'm armed with a good book! Sorry this computer is ancient there isn't a USB port so I' have to update the photos at a later date.
Wow I can't believe that I'm ready to leave aready, I've been in Adelaide three days now and heading to Canberra today. It has been boiling though, the temperature hit 33 degrees yesterday and it's supposed to be Autumn! First day here I got off the bus at 5am and managed to get in the hostel early to dump my bag, then I hit the sights. I spent most of the day crossing from one shaded area to another! Wandered through the main streets and around the art gallery and mueseum (it was nice and cool in there). Used my loney planet book to do a recommended walk along the river and through the Botanic Gardens, then to finish my first day I took the tram to the beach! The beaches are so white and clear its beautiful.
I booked myself on a trip to Kangeroo Island yesterday, which meant yet another early start. Caught the ferry to the Island and explored the Island. Highlight was walking through the forest searching for koala bears. They are really hard to spot especially in the heat they sleep high up in the trees. Also managed to see some Australian Sea Lions on a protected beach, they were all fast asleep as they spend three days swimming in search of food, no sleep due to risk of shark attack, then they return to land to sleep. Caught a glimpse of a few kangaroos however they spend most of the day in the bush and the come out at dusk to feed. Although there was a very tame kangaroo at the cafe we had lunch at, it even tolerated stroking! Its a beautiful island suffering from drought though, it hasn't seen rain since July last year. Eventually hit the sack at 11pm last night.
Well this morning I catch the bus to Canberra. Its going to take until 6am to get there so I'm armed with a good book! Sorry this computer is ancient there isn't a USB port so I' have to update the photos at a later date.
Tuesday, 10 April 2007
Tuesday 10th April
Happy birthday Becky!!!!
It's soooooo hot! I think it hit 30 degrees yesterday! I hired a bike and took a trip to the beach, although I don't think I've ever used a bike with such a hard saddle! Lets just say I can still fell it! I hope I'm not walking like John Wayne! Had to take regular rests but managed to cycle over to Royal Brighton about 3km away from Melbourne. It was really busy as I think half of Melbourne had the same idea. I had had enough sun come 3pm so headed back to the hostel and read my book for the remainder of the day.
"Everybody needs good Neighbours" I went on the tour this morning, everything is much smaller in real life. It's all filmed in a real street that they've paid the owners money for the privilage to film there. Unfortunately we just missed the filming, but managed to see some of the set and the studios. Its amazing, they use the grounds of the studios to film pretty much everything. Met Darcy, got an autograph! It was a bit strange really, meeting celebrities is not really my thing! Caught a glimse of Sky looking very glamorous. The school is an actual English school that we were able to wonder round as its Easter. Found out some gossip though.... any neighbours fans?!? Don't worry I'll leave you in suspense!
Anyway I haven't much more to report. I'm having a complimentary swim later today before the bus leaves for Auckland. Generally Melbourne is a relaxed small city with not an awful lot to do. The beaches are wonderful so its more a place to come and relax I think I'm ready to move on!
It's soooooo hot! I think it hit 30 degrees yesterday! I hired a bike and took a trip to the beach, although I don't think I've ever used a bike with such a hard saddle! Lets just say I can still fell it! I hope I'm not walking like John Wayne! Had to take regular rests but managed to cycle over to Royal Brighton about 3km away from Melbourne. It was really busy as I think half of Melbourne had the same idea. I had had enough sun come 3pm so headed back to the hostel and read my book for the remainder of the day.
"Everybody needs good Neighbours" I went on the tour this morning, everything is much smaller in real life. It's all filmed in a real street that they've paid the owners money for the privilage to film there. Unfortunately we just missed the filming, but managed to see some of the set and the studios. Its amazing, they use the grounds of the studios to film pretty much everything. Met Darcy, got an autograph! It was a bit strange really, meeting celebrities is not really my thing! Caught a glimse of Sky looking very glamorous. The school is an actual English school that we were able to wonder round as its Easter. Found out some gossip though.... any neighbours fans?!? Don't worry I'll leave you in suspense!
Anyway I haven't much more to report. I'm having a complimentary swim later today before the bus leaves for Auckland. Generally Melbourne is a relaxed small city with not an awful lot to do. The beaches are wonderful so its more a place to come and relax I think I'm ready to move on!
Sunday, 8 April 2007
Sunday 8th April
Happy Easter!!!
Although it doen't feel like Easter. The sun is shining and I'm a little pink on my nose! The night bus was brilliant brought me right into the centre of Melbourne 8o'clock this morning. So I spent the day wandering around the sights. Tomorrow I am to hire a bike and follow the river to the estuary and then head along the coast. Hopefully going on the Neighbours tour on Tuesday, although I might be unlucky, because its the Bank Holiday weekend everything seems to be booking up quickly. I'm in a YHA tonight and it's rather nice, as far as youth hostels go, sharing a dorm with three Irish girls.
Not a lot to report I'm afraid today. I'll leave the photos for a cafe that's a little cheaper, as they take ages to upload. Gonna go and make some dinner now and then have an early night. Tara!
Although it doen't feel like Easter. The sun is shining and I'm a little pink on my nose! The night bus was brilliant brought me right into the centre of Melbourne 8o'clock this morning. So I spent the day wandering around the sights. Tomorrow I am to hire a bike and follow the river to the estuary and then head along the coast. Hopefully going on the Neighbours tour on Tuesday, although I might be unlucky, because its the Bank Holiday weekend everything seems to be booking up quickly. I'm in a YHA tonight and it's rather nice, as far as youth hostels go, sharing a dorm with three Irish girls.
Not a lot to report I'm afraid today. I'll leave the photos for a cafe that's a little cheaper, as they take ages to upload. Gonna go and make some dinner now and then have an early night. Tara!
Friday, 6 April 2007
Friday 6th April
Good Friday.
Well had a fantastic day yesterday. I left my pack at the hotel and decided to go in search of the big sights. Well I was strolling through Royal Botanic Gardens and then turned the corner at Mrs Macquaries Point and there it was.... The Opera house. I couldn't come all the way to Sydney without having a look inside. So I took one of the tours, (took lots of photos Emma so you can admire the architecture) and was incredibly lucky at my timing, managed to catch a little of the Australian Ballet's rehersal. The opera house is huge inside, although I wasn't too keen on the decor! It was very modern and concrete based design inside, apparantly the pillars of concrete are hollow and designed to represent a palm leaf, that I could, just about, see!!
It was such a hot day that I decided to sit in one of the gardens admiring the view for an hour or so, glad I took my book!
Next was the Harbour Bridge, I strolled along the bridge admiring the views and, of course, taking many photos along the way. Instead of walking back I took one of the ferries from a small port named North Sydney High Street and headed back circular quay.
So next in my scheldule was to wander through the streets back to the hostel and catch a few sights on the way. I am amazed by how clean the city is. The locals obviously take great pride in their city. The buildings are very well maintained. I wandered past the parliament buildings and mueseums and had a look in the cathedral. The cathedral was suprisingly plain and although grand seemed to lack decor.
I booked myself into Eva's youth hostel last night and, although I was in a small dorm of three persons the othe two beds were empty so I had a little privacy. Unfortunately I tried to contact Christine but couldn't get through, so I have emailed her for some advice though. Tonight I have moved hostels due to the Easter weekend everywhere is busy, I'm round the corner in the Original Backpackers. I have bought a bus ticket to take me through 20 days of travel and plan to head to Melbourne for the long weekend. The bus travels during the night so I can kip on the bus.
Okay I'm off for now, heading to Bondi Beach and going to walk along the coast. The weather today is a bit glum I'm afraid, raining and much cooler. It appears the English weather has caught up with me! I don't mind it though, it was too warm yesterday.
Well had a fantastic day yesterday. I left my pack at the hotel and decided to go in search of the big sights. Well I was strolling through Royal Botanic Gardens and then turned the corner at Mrs Macquaries Point and there it was.... The Opera house. I couldn't come all the way to Sydney without having a look inside. So I took one of the tours, (took lots of photos Emma so you can admire the architecture) and was incredibly lucky at my timing, managed to catch a little of the Australian Ballet's rehersal. The opera house is huge inside, although I wasn't too keen on the decor! It was very modern and concrete based design inside, apparantly the pillars of concrete are hollow and designed to represent a palm leaf, that I could, just about, see!!
It was such a hot day that I decided to sit in one of the gardens admiring the view for an hour or so, glad I took my book!
Next was the Harbour Bridge, I strolled along the bridge admiring the views and, of course, taking many photos along the way. Instead of walking back I took one of the ferries from a small port named North Sydney High Street and headed back circular quay.
So next in my scheldule was to wander through the streets back to the hostel and catch a few sights on the way. I am amazed by how clean the city is. The locals obviously take great pride in their city. The buildings are very well maintained. I wandered past the parliament buildings and mueseums and had a look in the cathedral. The cathedral was suprisingly plain and although grand seemed to lack decor.
I booked myself into Eva's youth hostel last night and, although I was in a small dorm of three persons the othe two beds were empty so I had a little privacy. Unfortunately I tried to contact Christine but couldn't get through, so I have emailed her for some advice though. Tonight I have moved hostels due to the Easter weekend everywhere is busy, I'm round the corner in the Original Backpackers. I have bought a bus ticket to take me through 20 days of travel and plan to head to Melbourne for the long weekend. The bus travels during the night so I can kip on the bus.
Okay I'm off for now, heading to Bondi Beach and going to walk along the coast. The weather today is a bit glum I'm afraid, raining and much cooler. It appears the English weather has caught up with me! I don't mind it though, it was too warm yesterday.
Thursday, 5 April 2007
Thursday 5th April
G'Day mate!!!
I landed last night and yet to explore but I can tell its going to be warmer than the UK! My hotel room is amazing! I have never felt so posh!!!! There is a fantastic view of the harbour bridge and sky tower from my window!!!! I've taken some photos of the room and view already so have a look at those.
Well I'm going to give Christine a ring and sort out tonight and then.... Sydney here I come!!!!
I landed last night and yet to explore but I can tell its going to be warmer than the UK! My hotel room is amazing! I have never felt so posh!!!! There is a fantastic view of the harbour bridge and sky tower from my window!!!! I've taken some photos of the room and view already so have a look at those.
Well I'm going to give Christine a ring and sort out tonight and then.... Sydney here I come!!!!
Tuesday, 3 April 2007
Tuesday 3rd April
Greetings from Hong Kong!!
I've finally managed to find a cafe with the internet in, that was a challenge in itself!!! Anyway I'm nearing the end of my stay in Hong Kong. I think that I've managed to see everything possible in two days! Although everything on Hong Kong Island is a little repetitive! It's almost an architectural competition; who can build the tallest and most impressive skyscrapper?!? The buildings are incredible, I'm getting a bit of a sore neck though! Earlier today I went up, what felt like the world's steepest tram line! It took us right to the top of Victoria Peak, which is the highest point near, the views are stunning from the top although a little hairy at times! Just don't look down!!!
At the moment I'm in a coffee shop in Kowcoon. I crossed the channel by ferry it was a little rocky but quick and direct. Whilst here, I went to visit an elaborate temple called Sik Sik Wong Tai Sin Temple! There was an overwhelming smell of incense sticks, as for good luck people are to burn incense sticks infront of the alter, I didn't partake in this tradition I thought I'd inhale the surrounding ashes instead!!! Also, you'd be impressed mum, I thought I'd attempt improve my artistic element: I went to the art gallery!!! Actually, if I'm telling the truth, I'd been walking all day and wanted a rest so figured there would be seats in an art gallery!!! It was filled with pottery though, quite monotomous!
The amazing aspect of Hong Kong is, although it's very built up, they have attempted to maintain some conservation. Hidden away between the skyscrappers are small parks, some with exotic birds enclosed, it gives character and always keeps you on your toes!
I'm afraid there is no USB point in this computer so I'll try to upload the photos in Sydney.
Well, I'd best be going. On to Sydney tomorrow, I'll do my best to keep you posted.
Lisa
P.S I watched The Queen on the plane, not really what I'd call comical mum!
P.P.S. Not sure about the necklace Emma, will plastic/wood do?!?!
I've finally managed to find a cafe with the internet in, that was a challenge in itself!!! Anyway I'm nearing the end of my stay in Hong Kong. I think that I've managed to see everything possible in two days! Although everything on Hong Kong Island is a little repetitive! It's almost an architectural competition; who can build the tallest and most impressive skyscrapper?!? The buildings are incredible, I'm getting a bit of a sore neck though! Earlier today I went up, what felt like the world's steepest tram line! It took us right to the top of Victoria Peak, which is the highest point near, the views are stunning from the top although a little hairy at times! Just don't look down!!!
At the moment I'm in a coffee shop in Kowcoon. I crossed the channel by ferry it was a little rocky but quick and direct. Whilst here, I went to visit an elaborate temple called Sik Sik Wong Tai Sin Temple! There was an overwhelming smell of incense sticks, as for good luck people are to burn incense sticks infront of the alter, I didn't partake in this tradition I thought I'd inhale the surrounding ashes instead!!! Also, you'd be impressed mum, I thought I'd attempt improve my artistic element: I went to the art gallery!!! Actually, if I'm telling the truth, I'd been walking all day and wanted a rest so figured there would be seats in an art gallery!!! It was filled with pottery though, quite monotomous!
The amazing aspect of Hong Kong is, although it's very built up, they have attempted to maintain some conservation. Hidden away between the skyscrappers are small parks, some with exotic birds enclosed, it gives character and always keeps you on your toes!
I'm afraid there is no USB point in this computer so I'll try to upload the photos in Sydney.
Well, I'd best be going. On to Sydney tomorrow, I'll do my best to keep you posted.
Lisa
P.S I watched The Queen on the plane, not really what I'd call comical mum!
P.P.S. Not sure about the necklace Emma, will plastic/wood do?!?!
Monday, 2 April 2007
Monday 2nd April
Well I've arrived! After a very long 12 hours on the plane we finally landed. Hong Kong is 26 degrees at the moment so a little warm and its incredibly busy! This is just a quick post as I am in the train station using the free internet access available to anyone! Hotel is nice I'm on the 13th floor. I'm going to get a good nights sleep and then hit the sights in the morning! I will update you further when I sit down somewhere!! Until then, Lisa x
Sunday, 1 April 2007
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