Moscow was way warmer than Irkutsk which made exploring the city a lot easier. We went to Red Sqaure and saw the famous St. Basils cathedral which is amazing. This is something I always see in photos so to see it for real really made me relaise where I was and how amazing it is. We wondered around the streets and could not believe that every building looked amazing. They all look like they should be important but, more often than not, they turn out to be a shopping mall or something! We also ate more russian food - I have decided I love Borscht!
A visit to Lenins mausoleum was very strange. We had to hand our bags in, go through security and be ushered down a lot of steps into a dark basement before eventually walking around the dead body in a glass caninet and back out again. I have never seen anything like this before and it was a strange atmosphere. We also went into the Kremlin and ventured around the buildings and museums in there. Many people say Russia is dangerous and warned me to be careful but I found it a beautiful city and had no problems at all.
We then took the night train to St. Petersburg. It only took 8 hours which was a breeze after the 4day train! We arrived, checked into a nice hostel by the train station and walked down the main street. I could definatly tell that we are getting closer to Europe as this city did not feel as Russian. There were many familiar chains and shops and instead of spending my time looking at the buildings, I would point out clothes shops and fast food chains! We are trying not to spend money in these fast food chains though so we started cooking in the nice kitchen in the hostel with a bottle of vodka to save money!
We went to see the famous sights such as The Hermatige, Peter and Paul fortress, St. Issacs cathedral an the cathedral of spilled blood. They were all impressive but I do not want to see another cathedral for a while!
Next we are getting a bus to Helsinki in Finland. It will be strange getting on something other thn a train and I am looking forward to getting into Europe.
xxx
Monday, November 30, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
One Long Train Ride
On the 14th November Ben, Jen and I boarded the Trans-Siberean train from Irkutsk to Moscow. We alighted on the 18th November, 82 hous later!
We decided to travel in Plaskart (third class) as it was cheaper and we thought we would meet more people. It turned out to be the best idea! We boarded at 11pm, were setting up our beds when three boys from the next cabin began talking to us with very little English. They were mechanic students on thier way back to university. We soon got told off by the scary prodvista (attendent) for being to loud and had to got to bed. The boys came back in the morning to try and teach us a russian card game and drink vodka made in thier home town. They had to get off the train later that afternoon so after saying goodbye we all had a little nap.
As I woke up from my nap, a Russian army boy was sat on the end of my bed! He was very eager to intoduce himself and ask questions. He also had little English so it was difficult but we got by with the help of a Russian phrease book! He then went off for a bit and came back with a spcial forces army issue vest which he gave me as a present!! We were soon surrounded by more army boys and drinking vodka and beer! Another one of the soldiers gave Jen a belt as a present too which she then had to wear for the rest of the night! Again we were told to be quiet by the prodvista! The next day when Ben asked me how my book was going I said I had only read a page as I'd been too busy!
Another night on the train brought another group of people to drink vodka with. This time it was an 18year old Minor Belarussian celebrity and an old man with 14 children and five wives! The Belarussian taught us the card game that we had been trying to play with the students. He had less English than they did but was still, somehow better at teaching us. The game was called Russian joke and Jen and I became pretty good by the end! The belarus guy also gave me 2 rocks from Lake Baikal, where he had been to visit his grnadma, as another present!
Day Three and the cabin was full again! We played the card game and had vodka shots with two older men who transported fuel, a random man with gold teeth, who Jen met at the hot water tap, and a crazy old lady who decided she was going to hepl me play the game. I became pretty good at introducing myself in Russian and the crazy lady could speak a few words of English so we became friends!!
It was finally time to get off the train in Moscow and after saying goodbye to everyone we waited for the metro to open. Having a shower in the hostel after four days on the train was amazing! The train was lots of fun and an experence none of us will forget! We also learnt a card game in Russian, how to drink vodka Russian style and that a phrase book really comes in handy!!
We decided to travel in Plaskart (third class) as it was cheaper and we thought we would meet more people. It turned out to be the best idea! We boarded at 11pm, were setting up our beds when three boys from the next cabin began talking to us with very little English. They were mechanic students on thier way back to university. We soon got told off by the scary prodvista (attendent) for being to loud and had to got to bed. The boys came back in the morning to try and teach us a russian card game and drink vodka made in thier home town. They had to get off the train later that afternoon so after saying goodbye we all had a little nap.
As I woke up from my nap, a Russian army boy was sat on the end of my bed! He was very eager to intoduce himself and ask questions. He also had little English so it was difficult but we got by with the help of a Russian phrease book! He then went off for a bit and came back with a spcial forces army issue vest which he gave me as a present!! We were soon surrounded by more army boys and drinking vodka and beer! Another one of the soldiers gave Jen a belt as a present too which she then had to wear for the rest of the night! Again we were told to be quiet by the prodvista! The next day when Ben asked me how my book was going I said I had only read a page as I'd been too busy!
Another night on the train brought another group of people to drink vodka with. This time it was an 18year old Minor Belarussian celebrity and an old man with 14 children and five wives! The Belarussian taught us the card game that we had been trying to play with the students. He had less English than they did but was still, somehow better at teaching us. The game was called Russian joke and Jen and I became pretty good by the end! The belarus guy also gave me 2 rocks from Lake Baikal, where he had been to visit his grnadma, as another present!
Day Three and the cabin was full again! We played the card game and had vodka shots with two older men who transported fuel, a random man with gold teeth, who Jen met at the hot water tap, and a crazy old lady who decided she was going to hepl me play the game. I became pretty good at introducing myself in Russian and the crazy lady could speak a few words of English so we became friends!!
It was finally time to get off the train in Moscow and after saying goodbye to everyone we waited for the metro to open. Having a shower in the hostel after four days on the train was amazing! The train was lots of fun and an experence none of us will forget! We also learnt a card game in Russian, how to drink vodka Russian style and that a phrase book really comes in handy!!
Saturday, November 14, 2009
Irkutsk and Lake Baikal
After a train journey with a 9 hour border crossing, we arrived in Irkutsk in Russia. The first thing I noticed was definatly the cold! -21degrees with lots of snow! The second thing was the amount of fur that people were wearing! We checked into a lovely hostel and explored the city wearing as many layers as possible! Irkutsk has some lovely cathedrals and churches which look even nicer with a snowy background.
The next day was even colder at -24 and we then took a bus to Olkhon Island which is in the middle of Lake Baikal. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and could supply the whole world with water for 40years should it run out. The bus journey there was pretty long but we were kept entertained with a Russian alcoholic who spoke to us in Russian and fed Ben many large vodka shots! He would say random stuff in Russian and Ben would say random stuff in English as a reply. He could have been agreeing to anything and at one point we thought he may have sold Jen for 70,000 roubles!!
On the Island we stayed in a lovely guest house called Nikita's where three meals a day were included. The meals were mainly omul fish from the lake. I am not a fan of fish and would never eat fish that actually looked like fish! However, I did eat it and ended up really enjoying it by the end of the three days. Apart from eating, sleeping and using the banya (Russian Sauna) we went on a jeep trip to the north of the island. It was cool to walk to the tip and appreciate how big the lake actually is. It was a clear day and the views were great. We also had lunch on a random table by the forrest (fish soup of course!) cooked on a random fire which was cool.
The next day we woke up to snow covered streets and decided to go for a walk. It was cold of course but it ws lovely to see the lake with different scenery. It looked totally different from the day before. We put our hands in the lake to, apparantly, add one year to our lives! We also walked up one of the hills to see a Christmas card view of the snow covered town.
We got the bus back to Irkutsk and spent one more day walking around and taking photos. After relaxing in the warm hostel and having one last shower, we went to the train station to board the 82hr Trans-Siberean train to Moscow. Previously we have travelled in second class but this time we decided to go third class as it was 100pounds cheaper and we thought it might be more of an expereince as we mix with locals in an open carriage! We'll see.....
The next day was even colder at -24 and we then took a bus to Olkhon Island which is in the middle of Lake Baikal. Lake Baikal is the deepest lake in the world and could supply the whole world with water for 40years should it run out. The bus journey there was pretty long but we were kept entertained with a Russian alcoholic who spoke to us in Russian and fed Ben many large vodka shots! He would say random stuff in Russian and Ben would say random stuff in English as a reply. He could have been agreeing to anything and at one point we thought he may have sold Jen for 70,000 roubles!!
On the Island we stayed in a lovely guest house called Nikita's where three meals a day were included. The meals were mainly omul fish from the lake. I am not a fan of fish and would never eat fish that actually looked like fish! However, I did eat it and ended up really enjoying it by the end of the three days. Apart from eating, sleeping and using the banya (Russian Sauna) we went on a jeep trip to the north of the island. It was cool to walk to the tip and appreciate how big the lake actually is. It was a clear day and the views were great. We also had lunch on a random table by the forrest (fish soup of course!) cooked on a random fire which was cool.
The next day we woke up to snow covered streets and decided to go for a walk. It was cold of course but it ws lovely to see the lake with different scenery. It looked totally different from the day before. We put our hands in the lake to, apparantly, add one year to our lives! We also walked up one of the hills to see a Christmas card view of the snow covered town.
We got the bus back to Irkutsk and spent one more day walking around and taking photos. After relaxing in the warm hostel and having one last shower, we went to the train station to board the 82hr Trans-Siberean train to Moscow. Previously we have travelled in second class but this time we decided to go third class as it was 100pounds cheaper and we thought it might be more of an expereince as we mix with locals in an open carriage! We'll see.....
Sunday, November 8, 2009
The Gobi Desert
On a cold friday morning we packed into a very old Russian looking van, that looked like it was in the war, and begain driving accross the desert with two Finnish guys and our lovely driver Norra who didn't speak a word of English. The drive was very difficult and bumpy and at one point we got stuck in an icy river. Luckily there was a tractor nearby that was able to pull us out! We stopped for lunch and entered our first ger of the trip. It belonged to a local family who cooked us a very nice meal of mutton, veg and noodles. It was lovely food and at this point we didn't realise we would be eating this same dish everyday and would be sick of the sight of it by the end!!
We soon realised that breaking down and the van getting stuck was going to be a regular occurance but luckily Norra always knew how to fix it. We eventually arrived to the ger which we would sleep in for the night. It was snowing and very cold but it luckily had a fire to keep us warm. The lady looking after us didn't speak a word of English but as she came in to light the fire and we were all wondering what she was using she just pointed to the bag and said "shit"! She was burning camel and sheep dung! The ger was very basic with no running water or toilet and the fire would burn out in the middle of the night. We had to drink vodka to keep us warm!
The rest of the week was also spent driving off road accross the desert before arriving at a ger each evening. The landscape was amazing and changed drastically. One day we would be driving through snow and white sky and the next would be sand and blue sky. A couple of activities we did were walking in an ice valley and riding a camel by sand dunes. I didn't realise how big camels were and was pretty scared when it stood up!
I was ready to get back to the city and a shower by the end of the week but the trip was still amazing. Mongolia is definatly the most different place I have ever been. We spent one more night in the capital to have a cheeky hamburgur, pint and a good warm nights sleep before getting on another 36hr train to Irkutsk to Russia.
xxx
We soon realised that breaking down and the van getting stuck was going to be a regular occurance but luckily Norra always knew how to fix it. We eventually arrived to the ger which we would sleep in for the night. It was snowing and very cold but it luckily had a fire to keep us warm. The lady looking after us didn't speak a word of English but as she came in to light the fire and we were all wondering what she was using she just pointed to the bag and said "shit"! She was burning camel and sheep dung! The ger was very basic with no running water or toilet and the fire would burn out in the middle of the night. We had to drink vodka to keep us warm!
The rest of the week was also spent driving off road accross the desert before arriving at a ger each evening. The landscape was amazing and changed drastically. One day we would be driving through snow and white sky and the next would be sand and blue sky. A couple of activities we did were walking in an ice valley and riding a camel by sand dunes. I didn't realise how big camels were and was pretty scared when it stood up!
I was ready to get back to the city and a shower by the end of the week but the trip was still amazing. Mongolia is definatly the most different place I have ever been. We spent one more night in the capital to have a cheeky hamburgur, pint and a good warm nights sleep before getting on another 36hr train to Irkutsk to Russia.
xxx
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Back to HK and the beginning of the Trans-Siberean adventures!
I arrived in Hong Kong at 11.30pm on Wednesday night which just happened to be ladies night! I decided to go straight to typhoon from the airport and meet everyone! I got some very funny looks rocking up to a bar with a backpack but it was lovely to catch up with everyone and have some free vodkas!! I didn't realised how much I'd missed everyone and being in HK. I was only there for one full day but decided to spend it at Shek o beach and dinner at bubba gumps on the peak. This meant that the next day was a big rush to repack and sort bank stuff out. I made it ok and after saying a sad goodbye to everyone, Ben and I made it to the train station on time to meet Jen.
We boarded the train but I was in a different cabin to Ben and Jen as we had booked seperatly. Luckily we were next to each other and the journey was pleasemt. I even liked the food in the dining cart! 25hrs later we arrived in Beijing and took the bus to the Red Lantern hostel and ate lovely chinese food. The next day we did a reccy to the visa office before having lunch and going to see an acrobatic show which was brill.
As we knew where the visa place was, we got there very early on monday morning only to find it was closed! Luckily the window opened and we could fill in the form but our visa would not be ready until tuesday - the day we were supposed to catch the train! arrgghh! We decided to go to the station anyway to see if there was another train we could buy tickets for and after a 4hrs we found the place that sells international tickets. Luckily there was a train the day after our visas would be ready - I told the ticket man that I loved him!!
It was a rare clear day so we went up to the gate of Tianamen Square where you can look down onto the square. I felt just like Mao! We then decided to walk to a park at the back of the forbidden city where we walked up many steps to see the suset and stunning views of the forbidden city. We finished off the day with some well deserved beer and pizza.
After shopping for hats and gloves and eating some peking duck we boarded the 36hr train to Ulaan Baatar. The journey was actually good despite the border crossing taking over 5hrs. I even liked the food in the dining cart! The views through the window changed loads . When we woke up, there was masses of snow covered land and montains. I was worrying about the cold a lot! We finally arrvied in Ulaan Baatar and checked into a dodgy hostel which actually turned out to be nice inside - it was warm too! After eating some Mongolian food, which mainly consists of lamb, we went to a traditional mongolian show with contortionists and throat singers. It was very bizarre but actually quite funny and an expereince at the least!
Tomorrow we are going on a week long trip to the Gobi desert where we will stay in gers with local families. Im looking forward to it but we are all worried about the cold and the fact that we cannot have a shower for four days! Hopefully I wont have frozen to death and will write about it soon!
xxx
We boarded the train but I was in a different cabin to Ben and Jen as we had booked seperatly. Luckily we were next to each other and the journey was pleasemt. I even liked the food in the dining cart! 25hrs later we arrived in Beijing and took the bus to the Red Lantern hostel and ate lovely chinese food. The next day we did a reccy to the visa office before having lunch and going to see an acrobatic show which was brill.
As we knew where the visa place was, we got there very early on monday morning only to find it was closed! Luckily the window opened and we could fill in the form but our visa would not be ready until tuesday - the day we were supposed to catch the train! arrgghh! We decided to go to the station anyway to see if there was another train we could buy tickets for and after a 4hrs we found the place that sells international tickets. Luckily there was a train the day after our visas would be ready - I told the ticket man that I loved him!!
It was a rare clear day so we went up to the gate of Tianamen Square where you can look down onto the square. I felt just like Mao! We then decided to walk to a park at the back of the forbidden city where we walked up many steps to see the suset and stunning views of the forbidden city. We finished off the day with some well deserved beer and pizza.
After shopping for hats and gloves and eating some peking duck we boarded the 36hr train to Ulaan Baatar. The journey was actually good despite the border crossing taking over 5hrs. I even liked the food in the dining cart! The views through the window changed loads . When we woke up, there was masses of snow covered land and montains. I was worrying about the cold a lot! We finally arrvied in Ulaan Baatar and checked into a dodgy hostel which actually turned out to be nice inside - it was warm too! After eating some Mongolian food, which mainly consists of lamb, we went to a traditional mongolian show with contortionists and throat singers. It was very bizarre but actually quite funny and an expereince at the least!
Tomorrow we are going on a week long trip to the Gobi desert where we will stay in gers with local families. Im looking forward to it but we are all worried about the cold and the fact that we cannot have a shower for four days! Hopefully I wont have frozen to death and will write about it soon!
xxx
Monday, October 19, 2009
Melbourne and the end of Oz!
Many people have told me that Melbourne is one of the best places in Australia and I should definatly go. I like to go to places according to people's advice so I did the trip up the east coast a little quicker than planned so I could hvae a few days in Melbourne. However, when I got there (after getting on the correct flight!) I was greeted with rain and freezing cold weather and a pretty rough hostel. First impressions were not good.
On Friday I went on a day trip to Great Ocean road whihc is a beautiful long road that runs on the coastline of south Australia. On this trip I also saw koalas in the wild, the lighthouse from 'Round the twist' and the twelve apostles. It was a long day but very beautiful.
I then flew to Sydney for two days to catch my flight to Hong Kong. It was lovely and sunny in Sydney so I spent the day at Bondi and became a little lobster like! In the evening I met Larry who is a frind of a frind in Hong Kong. He took me to lots of Aussie bars around harbour where we drank lots of Aussie beer. My favouite was the opera bar which is just underneath the opera house. Stunning views! We also went to the Australia bar where I ate kangaroo and crocodile pizza! It was very strange - I quite liked them both but the kangaroo was definatly my favourite! Thanks Larry!
I am now in the airport ready to board my flight to Hong Kong. I am sad to leave Australia but very excited to see everyone in HK!
xxx
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Reef and Rainforest
After another long hungover bus drive, I arrived in Cairns. The city itself does not have much to see apart from good nightlife! It doesn't have a beach so I spent the first day chilling by the lagoon which all places with a rubbish beach seem to have!
I then went on an overnight boat trip to the Great Barrier Reef. We had to get on a smaller boat to drive out to a much bigger boat which is where I would stay. The boat was lovely and I had a room with a double bed and en-suite all to myself! After lunch I did some great snorkelling in a couple of different spots. 
There was then the chance to try an introductory scuba dive. This means that you go under the water for 30mins with an instructor who controls everything for you. All I had to do was breathe and kick my legs! However, I have decided that water activites are the kind of things that I'm most scared of and whilst I was sitting with the tank on ready to get into the water, I was more nervous than when I jumped out of a plane!
There was then the chance to try an introductory scuba dive. This means that you go under the water for 30mins with an instructor who controls everything for you. All I had to do was breathe and kick my legs! However, I have decided that water activites are the kind of things that I'm most scared of and whilst I was sitting with the tank on ready to get into the water, I was more nervous than when I jumped out of a plane! When we began to go under the water The realisation hit me that I could not pop my head out of the water every few minutes like I do when snorkelling and I freaked out! I felt very clostrophobic and scared that I would not be able to breathe nder the water! What a loser! The lovely instuctor calmed me down and we eventually went down to about 12m. I saw lots of lovely fish swimming above me, picked up a pineapple sea cucumber and saw a shark. It was amazing and Im glad I tried it (for the first and probably last time!)!
The day after the boat trip I went on a day trip to an area called Atherton Tablelands with Uncle Brian's tours. This is an area of rainforest and flat lands that were used for mining. We walked throught he rainforest and went to three differetn swimming holes. The first one was milla milla falls whihc had a rock slide that you could slide down into the river. fun!
The next one was Josephine falls which is the waterfall where Peter Andre did the 'Mysterious girl' video! It was also where the herbel essences advert was filmed so the guide insisted we all have a photo taken flicking our hair out of the water! The last swimming whole was a lake in a huge volcano but I was too cold to swim by this point!
The next one was Josephine falls which is the waterfall where Peter Andre did the 'Mysterious girl' video! It was also where the herbel essences advert was filmed so the guide insisted we all have a photo taken flicking our hair out of the water! The last swimming whole was a lake in a huge volcano but I was too cold to swim by this point! The scenery on this trip was lovely but it was the bus ride and the people that really made the trip. The bus driver was hilarious and made us play games and sing and dance. One of the games involved passing a polo around the bus using matchsticks in our mouths! There was also a point where the bus driver had us all ducking down and spying for animlas only for us to find a granny in the trees with soft toy animlas and a feather duster! I cannot describe how random and fun it was but would just say you have to go on Uncle Brian's if you are in Cairns!
I have also been to an area called Cape Tribulation which is where the rainforest meets the beach and the reef. It was nice walking through the Daintree rainforest but we didn't manage to see any crazy animlas. So, next we went on a cruise down the river to look for crocodiles. I saw a baby one on the bank and an adult female lazing in the water. The trip also involved another swimming hole and a stop off in Port Douglas which was very relaxing. A good day that everyone talks about but it didn't quite compare to the trip the day before.
Today I went to the airport to get a flight to Melbourne but when I got to check in, they told me it was the wrong day! My flight is actually tomorrow! I did know this but seem to be a bit of a dumb ass who doesn'yt know which day of the week it is! This meant I had abother day to chill by the lagoon and will hopefully get on the right flight tomorrow!!!
xxx
Saturday, October 3, 2009
Fraser Island and the Whitsundays
I left Hervy bay early on Monday morning in a 4x4 and headed to Frser island. The tour was a self drive tour so after food and alcohol shopping and collecting campiong gear, a group of seven of us got into the car and drove to the ferry. There was only three of us the group that had valid driving licenses so I ended up being one of the designated drivers. Arrrgghhh!! I havn't driven in such a long time! Our first driver was a German guy and he was very good. The island is just sand so as soon a we got off the ferry, we hd to drive through a lot of soft sand whihc made for a very bumpy ride. The drive itself is amazing as we were driving along a neautiful beach by the waves.
After swimming in a creek and looking at a shipwrek we headed for the campsite and set up our tents. Soon after, the sausages and cheap wine were flowing and we played drinking games, sang to the guitar and were taught how to play the didgeridoo by an aboriginal man.
The next day, I as feeling very hungover and covered in scratches from walking through the bush in the middle ofthe night. However, we got back in the car and went for a swim in a place called Champagne pools. After lunch, we went to a point called Indian head where we walked up soem cliffs to see whales, dolphins and manta ray swimming in the ocean. It was so beautiful.
The water in the camp had run out so noboady could have showers the next morning! his wasn't to much of a problem as we quickly packed up our tents etc and drove to Lake Mcenzie. This is a huge fresh water lake with lovely white sand. W spent quite a few hours chilling here as it was like paradise. We had to head back to ferry after this and I decided to hav a quick drive of the 4x4! I didn't kill anyone but only lasted 15mins as I couldn't drive in the dry sand. I had such an amazing time on the island. The camping and driving was an experience, the sights of the island are just beautiful and the group of people in my car were a lot of fun. I was sad to leave and definately reccomend this trip!
As soon as we got back to the mainland, I got on a 12hour nightbus to Airlie beach. The journey wasn't too bad as I had two seats to myself and managed to get some sleep. As soon as the bus arrived, I had to check in with the sailing company that I sailed the Whitsunday islands with. I just had time to pack a small bag and buy some goon (cheap wine) before boarding the boat. The boat was lovely and it was only a small, quiet group of us so it wasvery chilled out. We spent the whole of the first day sailing to a cove where we would sleep for the night. All meals are provided so we had a lovley dinner and some wine! We were allowed to sleep up on the deck, so we all dragged matresses and sleeping bags up and played soem drinking games before going to sleep under the stars.
It was an early start the next morning as we woke up with the sun. We had some breakfast whilst sailing over to Whitehaven Beach. We were take dover to the beach in a smaller speed boat and spent 3 0r 4 hours there swimming and chilling. The beach and water is amazing and when you walk up to the viewpoint, the view is like a beautiful postcard scene. There were many fish swimming with us in the clear water. We then got back on the boat and sailed over to Hook Island where we went snorkelling. The water was lovely and I saw a turtle and a family of clown fish (Nemo)! The last day we did some ver early morning snokelling again before heading back to Airlie beach. The trip was lovely and I now want to own a sailing boat!
Airlie beach is not really known for its beach but it has a beautiful lagoon that you can swim in and is a bit of a party town. So, after some afternoon swimming, a group of us from the boat went to investigate the bars and clubs. I had a really fun night as there is a great atmosphere here and I saw some people I met on Fraser Island and in New Zealand. The fact that there was twelve teams of hot footballers in town also helped!
Today Frankie left as she has less time than me and had to get up to Cairns as soon as possible. I will prob see her again when I get to Carins though which will be nice. I am now off to sunbathe by the lagoon and prepare for another night out with the footballers!
xxx
P.S It is that hot here that I have had to stop caring about looking stupid and buy a hat!
After swimming in a creek and looking at a shipwrek we headed for the campsite and set up our tents. Soon after, the sausages and cheap wine were flowing and we played drinking games, sang to the guitar and were taught how to play the didgeridoo by an aboriginal man.
The next day, I as feeling very hungover and covered in scratches from walking through the bush in the middle ofthe night. However, we got back in the car and went for a swim in a place called Champagne pools. After lunch, we went to a point called Indian head where we walked up soem cliffs to see whales, dolphins and manta ray swimming in the ocean. It was so beautiful.
The water in the camp had run out so noboady could have showers the next morning! his wasn't to much of a problem as we quickly packed up our tents etc and drove to Lake Mcenzie. This is a huge fresh water lake with lovely white sand. W spent quite a few hours chilling here as it was like paradise. We had to head back to ferry after this and I decided to hav a quick drive of the 4x4! I didn't kill anyone but only lasted 15mins as I couldn't drive in the dry sand. I had such an amazing time on the island. The camping and driving was an experience, the sights of the island are just beautiful and the group of people in my car were a lot of fun. I was sad to leave and definately reccomend this trip!
As soon as we got back to the mainland, I got on a 12hour nightbus to Airlie beach. The journey wasn't too bad as I had two seats to myself and managed to get some sleep. As soon as the bus arrived, I had to check in with the sailing company that I sailed the Whitsunday islands with. I just had time to pack a small bag and buy some goon (cheap wine) before boarding the boat. The boat was lovely and it was only a small, quiet group of us so it wasvery chilled out. We spent the whole of the first day sailing to a cove where we would sleep for the night. All meals are provided so we had a lovley dinner and some wine! We were allowed to sleep up on the deck, so we all dragged matresses and sleeping bags up and played soem drinking games before going to sleep under the stars.
It was an early start the next morning as we woke up with the sun. We had some breakfast whilst sailing over to Whitehaven Beach. We were take dover to the beach in a smaller speed boat and spent 3 0r 4 hours there swimming and chilling. The beach and water is amazing and when you walk up to the viewpoint, the view is like a beautiful postcard scene. There were many fish swimming with us in the clear water. We then got back on the boat and sailed over to Hook Island where we went snorkelling. The water was lovely and I saw a turtle and a family of clown fish (Nemo)! The last day we did some ver early morning snokelling again before heading back to Airlie beach. The trip was lovely and I now want to own a sailing boat!
Airlie beach is not really known for its beach but it has a beautiful lagoon that you can swim in and is a bit of a party town. So, after some afternoon swimming, a group of us from the boat went to investigate the bars and clubs. I had a really fun night as there is a great atmosphere here and I saw some people I met on Fraser Island and in New Zealand. The fact that there was twelve teams of hot footballers in town also helped!
Today Frankie left as she has less time than me and had to get up to Cairns as soon as possible. I will prob see her again when I get to Carins though which will be nice. I am now off to sunbathe by the lagoon and prepare for another night out with the footballers!
xxx
P.S It is that hot here that I have had to stop caring about looking stupid and buy a hat!
Friday, September 25, 2009
Byron Bay and Brisbane
We arrived in Byron Bay late on Tuesday night and checked into Nomads hostel which was amazing. There were only 4 beds in the room, one was a double, there was a balcony and air con. They also had a really cool common area where you can drink before going out. We got ready to go out out and decided to go to a bar called Cheeky Monkeys which was very sleezy but fun with lots of dancing on tables!
The next morning I woke up feeling a bit worse for wear and looked out of the window to see a clear sky and sunny day. However, by the time Frankie and I were ready to head out to the beach, a dust storm had arrived from central Australia, you couldn't see anything in the distance and the whole town had this orange tint to it.
I have never seen anything like this before, it was very strange and even the locals said it was very unusual. We still tried to lay on the beach for a while but it wasn't sunny and I even had sand in my mouth by this point so we went for a walk aorund the town and looked in the hippy shops. Byron bay is a really cool and chilled out place, I like it.
I have never seen anything like this before, it was very strange and even the locals said it was very unusual. We still tried to lay on the beach for a while but it wasn't sunny and I even had sand in my mouth by this point so we went for a walk aorund the town and looked in the hippy shops. Byron bay is a really cool and chilled out place, I like it. The next day we went on a day tour to Nimbin in a very retro looking van!
Nimbin is a tiny town that you can walk around in about half an hour but it is full of hippies, hippy shops (my favourite being 'bringabong'!) and known for everyone smoking marijuana. It is still illegal here but there are so many people, smoking and dealing it that the seven policemen they have in Nimbin, cannot really handle the situation. The town has mardi gras every may where there are many protests for the legalisation of marijuana. It looks like a lot of fun! On the way back we stopped off at a pub for a bbq and then a nice waterfall which I was to scard to jump in to!
Nimbin is a tiny town that you can walk around in about half an hour but it is full of hippies, hippy shops (my favourite being 'bringabong'!) and known for everyone smoking marijuana. It is still illegal here but there are so many people, smoking and dealing it that the seven policemen they have in Nimbin, cannot really handle the situation. The town has mardi gras every may where there are many protests for the legalisation of marijuana. It looks like a lot of fun! On the way back we stopped off at a pub for a bbq and then a nice waterfall which I was to scard to jump in to!Frankie and I had to catch our bus very early the next morning so we decided to get up even more early to go and watch the sunrise and Byron Bay lighthouse. We cheated and caught a taxi there just before dawn and watched the sun do its thing! It was very beautiful and when the sun was up we saw whales and dolphins swimming in the sea. Amazing! 
We then caught the bus to Brisbane and checked into a hostel. People always talk baout sydeny and Melbourne being the big cool cities of Australia but I really like Brisbane, it's a cool city. The high street is always busy with nice little bars and chiled out cafes in the middle where you can people watch. There is an arts festival on a the minute too so there are many different little street perfomances too.
The first day we went to lone pine Koala sanctury which is the biggest in Australia. I am not normally a fan of animals but I really enjoyed being there and the koalas were so cute I even cuddled one! That night we decided to treat ourselves to a lovely meal, check out more of the city and drink some nice wine rather than the horrible goon that the backpacker bars serve!
Today I had a big walk around the city. I crossed one of the bridges over the river to Southbank which is a lovely park with small swimming pools and fake beach as well had cafes and market stalls. I also walked to fortitude valley and chinatown where there were more bars and market stalls! This is the first chinatown I have been to in Australia ans it reminded me lots of Hong Kong! Tonight we are going to go back to the valley (by train becasue I am not walking anymore!) for dinner and a Saturday night out in a city. Tomorrow we will head to Hervey bay and Fraser Island.
xxx
Monday, September 21, 2009
In Oz and surfing!
I Was very sad to leave New Zeland. It is an amzaing place and I have had a fab month there. I flew to sydney but got there quite late so just chilled for the night. I did the harbour and bondi when I flew here the first time so the next day I went to Manly beach. It was a 30 minute ferry ride with really nice views and the place itself had a good atmosphere with loads of beach shops and cafes. I spent ages just chilling on Manly beach and Fairy beach.
xxx
I am travelling australia with a girl I met in New Zealand so very early on sunday morning, I met Frankie and we got the bus to woolgooga. It was a long ride but when we got to the surf camp it was all worth it. The surf camp is in the middle of nowhere but is lovely. 
As soon as we arrived we had dinner (three meals a day are included so I'm getting very fat!) and chatted around the fire. We had another early start on monday as we had a surf lesson. It only took about 45mins before we were in the water and standing up! I was very impressed with my little self! We even saw some dolphins in the water with us.
After lunch, we went for a swim and a sunbathe followed by drinks and cricket on the beach. Lots of other people arrived that night so after dinner we played lots of drinking games and had a good night.
As soon as we arrived we had dinner (three meals a day are included so I'm getting very fat!) and chatted around the fire. We had another early start on monday as we had a surf lesson. It only took about 45mins before we were in the water and standing up! I was very impressed with my little self! We even saw some dolphins in the water with us. After lunch, we went for a swim and a sunbathe followed by drinks and cricket on the beach. Lots of other people arrived that night so after dinner we played lots of drinking games and had a good night.On Tuesday we were allowed to have a lie in and we had another surf lesson after lunch. I've got the standing up sorted, I just need to learn how to catch the waves! I really enjoyed it and I'm looking forward to trying it out on my own in Byron Bay!
xxxWednesday, September 16, 2009
Queenstown baby!
I love Queenstown! It is a small but very beautiful city full of adventure, shops, cafes and bars.
After going for a quick wonder around the city, we all went to the hostel bar for a free meal and drinks. I saw some people I knew from the other bus too which was nice. I have had drinks from fishbowls, buckets, and jugs but never from a teapot which is what one of the bars sold that we went to next!! The next day I chilled and had a legendary fergburger. Everyone talks about this being the best burger ever and is a must when you go to Queenstown. It was the biggest burger Iv ever seen and did live up to the hype!
After more drinks to celebrate a successful day of skiing, I had to get up early to get the bus to Christchurch. We stopped off at a couple of nice spots and saw a view of Mt Cook. I am now in Christchurch which is a pretty boring city to be honest! I've been for a walk to the museum and around the botanical gardens.
After going for a quick wonder around the city, we all went to the hostel bar for a free meal and drinks. I saw some people I knew from the other bus too which was nice. I have had drinks from fishbowls, buckets, and jugs but never from a teapot which is what one of the bars sold that we went to next!! The next day I chilled and had a legendary fergburger. Everyone talks about this being the best burger ever and is a must when you go to Queenstown. It was the biggest burger Iv ever seen and did live up to the hype!Moving on from burgers, the next day I went skiing which was amazing and one of my favourite things so far! I havn't really skied before so I went in the beginners class and had a lesson in the morning and a lesson in the afternoon. They really helped and even before lunch I was wizzing down the beginners slopes! I then learnt how to turn and stuff and tried out a steeper slope in the afternoon. I didn't fall over once which I was impressed with!
It was a lovely sunny day and the view from the mountain was incredible. I want to go on a skiing holiday as soon as possible!
It was a lovely sunny day and the view from the mountain was incredible. I want to go on a skiing holiday as soon as possible! After more drinks to celebrate a successful day of skiing, I had to get up early to get the bus to Christchurch. We stopped off at a couple of nice spots and saw a view of Mt Cook. I am now in Christchurch which is a pretty boring city to be honest! I've been for a walk to the museum and around the botanical gardens. Tomorrow I fly to Australia. I have changed my plans a bit and will now fly to sydney and travel up to cairns because it works out a lot cheaper. I will be sad to leave New Zealand as it is an amazing country and I have had a lot of fun. However, I am looking forward to some heat on Oz!
xxx
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Franz Josef and Wanaka
After way to many drinks at the bar in Franz Josef, I had to get up at 8am to go and hike up a Glacier! After putting on our sexy waterproofs, we had to walk for an hour just to get to the Glacier. We then attatched crampons to our boots and set off hiking up the Glacier.
It was beautiful but a lot of hard work. We had to climb up very big steps and squeeze through tiny gaps. It was freezing cold and we kept getting bits of rain all day but I went in the slower group and our gide was very good. We were on the ice for about 6 hours and it was amazing!
Then I fell down.....
not really! But it was cold trying to do this photo!!
It was beautiful but a lot of hard work. We had to climb up very big steps and squeeze through tiny gaps. It was freezing cold and we kept getting bits of rain all day but I went in the slower group and our gide was very good. We were on the ice for about 6 hours and it was amazing!Then I fell down..... not really! But it was cold trying to do this photo!!I was very tired after the day of hiking so had a quiet night before getting up to head to Wanaka. On the way we stopped for a short walk to a big waterfall which was nice. There was also an illusion where if you stare into the middle of the water then look away, the trees begin to move. Very strange!
We then arrived in Wanaka which is a beautiful little town by the lake. The sun was shining so I had a nice milkshake and read my book by the lake. I then cooked food for the first time as I realised I'm spending way too much money! We then went to the bar as there was a sweep stake on the rugby. Unfortunatly I didn't win and neither did the all Blacks!
Before we left this morning, we stopped off at puzzling world which, like the name suggests, is full of illusions and puzzles. I tried walking around the maze but got confused and bored so ended up exiting via the emergency exit! The illusions were really cool and really messed with your head. 
I am now in Queesntown which seems like a pretty cool place. This is the view from my dorm window!
xxx
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Nelson, Westport and The Poo Pub!
I left the north island and took a 3hour ferry ride to the south island. The first stop was in a town called Nelson. The hostel that we stayed in was very posh and more like a hotel than something you would find a bunch of backpackers in. We had a beer tasting session a lovely roast dinner with chocolate pudding. The hostels offer you these lovley meals so I accept them all!! Im definatly eating way too much!
I am at the front incase you're wondering!
A group of took a walk up a mountain by the hostel to the centre point of New Zealand. The views were cool and we managed to see the sun set.
After some drinking games and a couple of hours sleep, we all got back on the bus and made our way to Westport. On the way we stopped at a lovely lake for a picnic and a walk. It was freezing but looked lovley with the snow topped mountains. A few people went for a swim but I wasn't brave enough!
Once in Westport we went jet boating on the river. This jet boats work by sucking in water then pumping it back out so thay can travel very fast and in shallow water. The driver kept doing lots of turns which got us very wet but a lot of fun!
Once in Westport we went jet boating on the river. This jet boats work by sucking in water then pumping it back out so thay can travel very fast and in shallow water. The driver kept doing lots of turns which got us very wet but a lot of fun! I am at the front incase you're wondering!There wasn't much time for rest as we got back on the bus in the morning and headed towards lake Mahinapua. On the way there, we stopped for several lovely walk along the west coast and saw some seals and pancake rocks. It took me a while to work out, but they are called pancake rocks becasue they are stacked like pancakes and nobody knows why or how.
We then headed to a hostel called The Poo Pub where there is a group dinner and a fancy dress party. The theme for the fancy dress was the letter 'p' so I wasn't very original and went for a policewoman outfit! There are a lot more people on the bus now so the party was a lot of fun and everyone had an awesome time!
We had a hungover ride to Franz Josef today where I will do a glacier hike tomorrow.
xxx
Saturday, September 5, 2009
River valley and Wellington
On our way out of Taupo we stopped for a walk around the Tongariro national park. The park is basically three mountains, that look beautiful as they are topped with snow at the moment, a water full and just generally beautiful scenery. 
After this, we drove to another waterfall that two of the boys jumped off naked! Quite entertaning!
After this, we drove to another waterfall that two of the boys jumped off naked! Quite entertaning!We then arrived in River valley. There is nothing there apart from a river and a beautiful lodge that we stayed in. It was freezing but after a roast dinner cooked by the owners and a few too many glasses of wine by the fire, it was lovely. The next morning I got up to go grade 5 white water rafting down the river. I was the only girl brave enough to go too!! The guides hadn't been on the river for over a week becasue of a big flood. This meant that they had to keep stopping to work out if it was safe enough for us to go through some of the rapids. Unfortunatly we did have to walk around one of them becasue it was too dangerous and we only did half of another one. When we were through the second one the guide told us that 3 people had drowned in that part of the river a few months ago! Oh my god! It was quite fun but probably not as exteme as it could have been if we had done them all properly. 
After a much needed hot shower and lunch, we set off for Wellington. Wellington is the capital city and has a really nice atmosphere. We arrived quite late so sorted ourselves out then headed out to check out the local bars. The hostel bars have been ok but it is so nice to be in a place where there is somewhere else to go! Good night!
Yesterday I went to the New Zealand Museum which was pretty good, the highlight being a 4m long squid that was found in 2007! Today I climbed up Mt Victoria where you can see 360degess views of the city. I decided to stay in Wellington a few extra nights so the good group from the bus before has been spilt up a little whihc is a shame. I get on the bus again tomorrow and head to Nelson on the south island. 
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
Waitomo and Taupo
I left Rotorua early the next morning on a new bus with a different group of people. This bus is way more fun, the driver and the group of people are lovely.
On the way out of town we stopped off to do some activities. Some of the boys went zorbing and then about six of us did the swoop. The swoop is bascically a big sleeping bag that you are zipped into and hoisted 40m in the air. A cord is pulled then you are released into freefall then swing through the air! So much fun!
We arrived in Waitomo (which means water cave in Maori). The town is famous for its glow worm caves. The caves were flooded when we arrived so we just played ring of fire and went to the bar. The next morning the caves were fine so 5 of us went along to do the "abyss trip" through the caves. We changed into our very attractive wet suits and wellies and absailed down into the caves. Once in the caves we flew down a zip line where there was lots of water and the cave opened up. After a quick hot chocolate we got ourselves a tube and jumped into the freezing cold water. We all held onto each other, turned off our head lamps and floated through the gave looking at the glow worms. The glow worms are more like maggots and have a light in them to attract insects they live inside and outside caves but it was amazing to see them all glowing in the dark caves.
We then got out of the tubes and floated down a small waterfall. from here we just walked/swam throught he water and rocks. The guides who were with us were really cool and took lots of wicked pictures (which I will put on here when i have more time). One of them had to rescue me when we had to float uder a rock with only our mouth, eyes and nose above the water. I ended up going under the water and freaked out big time!!! We were in the caves for around three hours and it was amazing! One of the best things I have done so far becasue it was so different.
After a nice hot shower, we got on the bus to Taupo. Just as I was getting over my hangover we arrived in the town and went off to do a skydive!!! I have done it before but was still very nervous. We went up to 15,000 feet, the door opened and off I went. The freefall lasted fro 4mins whihc was amazing and when the parachue opened, the view was amazing and I even saw a rainbow.
We got to the hostel and I had a little nap before the group went out to do a pub quiz. I think this is the most crazy day I will EVER have!!!!
Today we walked for two hours up to the top of Mount Tahaura where you could see right accross New zealand. It was amazgin but muddy and tiring. I had another nap when I came back and now Im off for a few drinks before getting onto the bus to River Valley tomorrow morning.
xxx
On the way out of town we stopped off to do some activities. Some of the boys went zorbing and then about six of us did the swoop. The swoop is bascically a big sleeping bag that you are zipped into and hoisted 40m in the air. A cord is pulled then you are released into freefall then swing through the air! So much fun!
We arrived in Waitomo (which means water cave in Maori). The town is famous for its glow worm caves. The caves were flooded when we arrived so we just played ring of fire and went to the bar. The next morning the caves were fine so 5 of us went along to do the "abyss trip" through the caves. We changed into our very attractive wet suits and wellies and absailed down into the caves. Once in the caves we flew down a zip line where there was lots of water and the cave opened up. After a quick hot chocolate we got ourselves a tube and jumped into the freezing cold water. We all held onto each other, turned off our head lamps and floated through the gave looking at the glow worms. The glow worms are more like maggots and have a light in them to attract insects they live inside and outside caves but it was amazing to see them all glowing in the dark caves.
We then got out of the tubes and floated down a small waterfall. from here we just walked/swam throught he water and rocks. The guides who were with us were really cool and took lots of wicked pictures (which I will put on here when i have more time). One of them had to rescue me when we had to float uder a rock with only our mouth, eyes and nose above the water. I ended up going under the water and freaked out big time!!! We were in the caves for around three hours and it was amazing! One of the best things I have done so far becasue it was so different.
After a nice hot shower, we got on the bus to Taupo. Just as I was getting over my hangover we arrived in the town and went off to do a skydive!!! I have done it before but was still very nervous. We went up to 15,000 feet, the door opened and off I went. The freefall lasted fro 4mins whihc was amazing and when the parachue opened, the view was amazing and I even saw a rainbow.
We got to the hostel and I had a little nap before the group went out to do a pub quiz. I think this is the most crazy day I will EVER have!!!!
Today we walked for two hours up to the top of Mount Tahaura where you could see right accross New zealand. It was amazgin but muddy and tiring. I had another nap when I came back and now Im off for a few drinks before getting onto the bus to River Valley tomorrow morning.
xxx
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Whitianga and Rotorua
I got up early on Friday morning and boarded the big green bus. We went to Mt eden which is a big volcano that has great views over Auckland. We then got to Whitianga (pronounced fitty anger!) and Mercury bay. I decided to go kayaking with a few others on the sea around some beautiful islands and a beach. We were kayaking for a good three hours whihc was pretty intense and cold towards the end. It was well woth it though and the guide even made us a hot chocolate on the beach. We had spray skirts to try and keep the water out whihc made us look ridiculous and didn't really stop us from getting wet!
We got to the hostel that night where the owners cooked us a lovely spaghetti bolognase. Then the whole group of us went to some gorgeous hot springs for a beer and some relaxing!
The next day we set of for Rotorua. On the way we stopped foe a lovley walk in some caves and accroos bridges where the scenery was beautiful. We also stopped in Hobbitan village where lord of the rings was filmed.
Rotorua is one of the most cultural town on the north island and aslo has lots of geothermal activity. The Earth's crust is very thin here which means you see loads of steam coming up from pools of hot water. The pressure of the hot water build up and a big spray of water called a geysier comes out of the ground. We went to a museum that explained the geothermal activity, showed us a hot mud ppol and explained a bit about the Maori culture.
In the evening, we went to a maori culture night in a traditonal village. A boy form our group was chosen as the chief of our bus (wakka) so, when we got there he had to stand in front of the tribe (without laughing) whilst they danced, grunted, bulged thier eyes and stuck their tongues out. similar to what the all blacks rugby team do. We were told not to laugh or smile but I found that pretty difficult! They then showed us how they make things like clothes, weapons and tattoos and also some dancing and singing to welcome us. Out "chief" Lewis had to touch noses and heads with the chief and say kia ora which means welcome!
We then had a traditonal meal that they cook by placing the food and hot rocks in a hole in the ground and covering it for three hours. The food was amazing, it was just like a roast dinner and probably the best meal i am going to eat in along time!
Today a girl, from my bus, called Francis and I went for a walk around the park with more natural hot water pools and the hot, steaming lake. It rained and we got absoslutly soaked so we went to the polyneasen spa to warm up! It was so nice! It has many different small pools outside whihc are different temperatures and naturally from the lake. The lake does contain a lot of sulphur so this whole town, including the lovely spa, smell like rotten eggs! Lovely!
Im off for dinner and drinks in the bar now and get the bus to Waitomo tomorrow. Lots of love xxx
Will upload pics when I have time becasue it is taking way to long
We got to the hostel that night where the owners cooked us a lovely spaghetti bolognase. Then the whole group of us went to some gorgeous hot springs for a beer and some relaxing!
The next day we set of for Rotorua. On the way we stopped foe a lovley walk in some caves and accroos bridges where the scenery was beautiful. We also stopped in Hobbitan village where lord of the rings was filmed.
Rotorua is one of the most cultural town on the north island and aslo has lots of geothermal activity. The Earth's crust is very thin here which means you see loads of steam coming up from pools of hot water. The pressure of the hot water build up and a big spray of water called a geysier comes out of the ground. We went to a museum that explained the geothermal activity, showed us a hot mud ppol and explained a bit about the Maori culture.
In the evening, we went to a maori culture night in a traditonal village. A boy form our group was chosen as the chief of our bus (wakka) so, when we got there he had to stand in front of the tribe (without laughing) whilst they danced, grunted, bulged thier eyes and stuck their tongues out. similar to what the all blacks rugby team do. We were told not to laugh or smile but I found that pretty difficult! They then showed us how they make things like clothes, weapons and tattoos and also some dancing and singing to welcome us. Out "chief" Lewis had to touch noses and heads with the chief and say kia ora which means welcome!
We then had a traditonal meal that they cook by placing the food and hot rocks in a hole in the ground and covering it for three hours. The food was amazing, it was just like a roast dinner and probably the best meal i am going to eat in along time!
Today a girl, from my bus, called Francis and I went for a walk around the park with more natural hot water pools and the hot, steaming lake. It rained and we got absoslutly soaked so we went to the polyneasen spa to warm up! It was so nice! It has many different small pools outside whihc are different temperatures and naturally from the lake. The lake does contain a lot of sulphur so this whole town, including the lovely spa, smell like rotten eggs! Lovely!
Im off for dinner and drinks in the bar now and get the bus to Waitomo tomorrow. Lots of love xxx
Will upload pics when I have time becasue it is taking way to long
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Auckland
Being hungover on flights seems to be standard for me now! This is how my flight to New Zealand was! I arrived in Auckland yeasterday, checked into my hostel and wondered around the centre of the city. It is even more like England than Sydney was and is full of so many different nationalities. I even saw cows in a field on the way from the airport! It is colder here too!
The people in my dorm were a bit boring, so in the evening I went down to the bar next door. As I walked in they were giving away free cocktails which was perfect! I met a group of people and watched some of the funny competitions that were going on in the bar.
Today, I went up the sky tower which is the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere. It was a pretty cool view of the city and you could watch people jumping from the top which was quite entertaining!
It also had a glass floor in some areas which was really scary! 
I then wondered around the parks of the city and down to the harbour to see the bridge and all the sailing boats which Auckland seems to be known for.
Tonight I may go down to the bar again and tomorrow morning I start the Kiwi Expereince bus which will take me down to Mercury bay.
xxx
The people in my dorm were a bit boring, so in the evening I went down to the bar next door. As I walked in they were giving away free cocktails which was perfect! I met a group of people and watched some of the funny competitions that were going on in the bar.
Today, I went up the sky tower which is the tallest tower in the southern hemisphere. It was a pretty cool view of the city and you could watch people jumping from the top which was quite entertaining!
It also had a glass floor in some areas which was really scary! I then wondered around the parks of the city and down to the harbour to see the bridge and all the sailing boats which Auckland seems to be known for.
Tonight I may go down to the bar again and tomorrow morning I start the Kiwi Expereince bus which will take me down to Mercury bay.xxx
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
1st stop!
My flight to Sydney was pretty awful as I was very hungover and had lost my voice. When we got to Sydney airport the crosswinds were too strong so we were diverted to Brisbane. At Brisbane airport we just had to sit on the tarmac for 3 hours while the winds calmed down and the plane was refulled.
Anyway, I arrived at my hostel which is very big and very nice. You could dance in the (very hot) shower if you wanted! I spoke to a girl in my dorm and went out for dinner with her and some other people and then for drinks in the bar under the hostel.
After a much needed long sleep, I got up this morning and when to see the typical Sydney sights with the girl from my dorm. I walked to Sydeny harbour bridge and the opera house which looked really nice in the sunshine and blue sky. Its weird seeing them in real life after seeing so many pictures e.t.c!
We then got on the bus to Bondi Beach. It is an amazing beach with white sand and clear sea.
Even though today is a lovely sunny day it is still pretty cold, especailly compared to Hong Kong! I dipped my feet in the sea and screamed! It wasn't very busy down there but there were still quite a few people laying on the beach and it seems like a lovely chilled out area. I think I may stay here when I come back in October.
All I saw of Sydney last night was the hostel bar so, I saw it properly today and it was very strange. After living in Hong Kong and only travelling in Asia before, it is just like being in London or something but with sun and hotter people! Its strange seeing western people everywhere and knowing that everyone speaks English.
I have just had dinner and now off to the bar for a couple of drinks. I fly to Auckland tomorrow so have to be up at 6.30am to get my flight. I'm excited to be going to New Zealand as I was speaking to a few people who have just been but Im also excited to come back to Sydeny and Australia after!
xxx
Anyway, I arrived at my hostel which is very big and very nice. You could dance in the (very hot) shower if you wanted! I spoke to a girl in my dorm and went out for dinner with her and some other people and then for drinks in the bar under the hostel.
After a much needed long sleep, I got up this morning and when to see the typical Sydney sights with the girl from my dorm. I walked to Sydeny harbour bridge and the opera house which looked really nice in the sunshine and blue sky. Its weird seeing them in real life after seeing so many pictures e.t.c!
We then got on the bus to Bondi Beach. It is an amazing beach with white sand and clear sea.
Even though today is a lovely sunny day it is still pretty cold, especailly compared to Hong Kong! I dipped my feet in the sea and screamed! It wasn't very busy down there but there were still quite a few people laying on the beach and it seems like a lovely chilled out area. I think I may stay here when I come back in October.All I saw of Sydney last night was the hostel bar so, I saw it properly today and it was very strange. After living in Hong Kong and only travelling in Asia before, it is just like being in London or something but with sun and hotter people! Its strange seeing western people everywhere and knowing that everyone speaks English.
I have just had dinner and now off to the bar for a couple of drinks. I fly to Auckland tomorrow so have to be up at 6.30am to get my flight. I'm excited to be going to New Zealand as I was speaking to a few people who have just been but Im also excited to come back to Sydeny and Australia after!
xxx
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Getting ready!
I leave tomorrow for my travels and have been trying to pack my backpack today. This was very difficult as I went out for drinks after my last day at work and got in at 7am this morning! Hungover packing is not easy! It is now packed though and feels a lot heavier than 12.5kg!
Im very excited but also starting to feel a bit emotional about leaving, I will be coming back to Hong Kong in January so dont know why! Im going out again tonight to say bye to everyone but hopefully will get in before 7 so i dont miss my flight!
My flight is to sydney but after two nights there, I'm flying straight down to Aukland to do the north and south islands Of New Zealand for three to four weeks. I will then fly back up to Cairns in Australia to travel the east coast down to sydeny to catch my flight back to HK. I will only be in HK for a night or so before I catch the train to Beijing and meet Ben and Jen to do the Trans Siberian train through Mongolia and Russia! I will try and do some other countries in Europe before going back home to England for Christmas. Thats the plan anyway!
Let the adventure begin!!
xxxx
Im very excited but also starting to feel a bit emotional about leaving, I will be coming back to Hong Kong in January so dont know why! Im going out again tonight to say bye to everyone but hopefully will get in before 7 so i dont miss my flight!
My flight is to sydney but after two nights there, I'm flying straight down to Aukland to do the north and south islands Of New Zealand for three to four weeks. I will then fly back up to Cairns in Australia to travel the east coast down to sydeny to catch my flight back to HK. I will only be in HK for a night or so before I catch the train to Beijing and meet Ben and Jen to do the Trans Siberian train through Mongolia and Russia! I will try and do some other countries in Europe before going back home to England for Christmas. Thats the plan anyway!
Let the adventure begin!!
xxxx
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