The Waitomo Glowworm Caves were awe-inspiring.... In the darkness of the caves it seemed just as though I was laying under a starry sky... I managed to get some good photos, but have left them back at the hostel... will upload them as soon as I get the chance... As well as the tubing, the abseiling and rock climbing was also fun but I have to admit that I am covered in bruises now... Taking it easy is definitely the name of the game, at least for the next few days anyway :o/
Have managed to get my way back to Auckland by hitching a lift with Steve from Bournmouth, thanx Steve.
Not sure what I'm gonna do next... The friends that I made in Auckland previously are have got another gig this weekend, so I will probably hang around for that the maybe head off to Fiji or even the States earlier...
Keep an eye on the space for updates
Hope all is well with you guys
xx
Tuesday, October 31, 2006
Wednesday, October 25, 2006
Buckle Bunnies Beware
Ok so the last time I wrote, I think I was going on about taking it easy for a few days 'cos the girls had left to go to Oz and I was on my own again... Or something like that?!
Boy was I wrong... ;o)
I met a Cowgirl... that’s right an authentic Kiwi Cowgirl. She'd been out with me and the girls and the rest of the 'Base backpacker' gang on Jo and Khirsty's final night, and no sooner had the girls left the following day I had a call from Shannon (Cowgirl) asking me if I wanted to join her on a 2 day road trip... we went to the Nature Reserve and Wildlife Park just outside of Christchurch we're I amused everyone by screaming at a pouncing cheetah shortly followed by almost falling out of Shannon’s car... I use the word 'car' very loosely :o/ We then drove to Hanmer Springs to chill out in the spa's there.
Anyway we hit it off and Shannon invited me to join her and her boyfriend Cowboy Cain for a Rodeo weekend in the South Island... How could I refuse...
We picked Cain up from the airport and hit Winchester for the first Rodeo... it was fantastic... lots of sun, fun, and beer... Those Cowboys sure know how to drink.
The second Rodeo of the season was the bigger of the 2 and was held in Methvan, it was packed, as was the town, I've never seen so many cowboy hats in my life... We partied hard and listened to lots of country music... I tried to learn the local etiquette as best I could... I think Shan may make a Cowgirl out of me yet ;o)
I have to say a massive thanx to Shan and Cain for not only taking me to the Rodeo, but for letting me & Mick (The Monkey) hitch a lift all the way back to Hamilton with them, and for them putting me up at their lovely hilltop farm home in Raglan... Raglan is beautiful.
Cheers Guys
Going to Waitomo Glowworm Caves this weekend to do some Blackwater Rafting, Caving & Abseiling (apparently down some waterfalls) should be challenging... or interesting if I have anything to do with it.
From a chilled out Sity in Hamilton...
xx
Boy was I wrong... ;o)
I met a Cowgirl... that’s right an authentic Kiwi Cowgirl. She'd been out with me and the girls and the rest of the 'Base backpacker' gang on Jo and Khirsty's final night, and no sooner had the girls left the following day I had a call from Shannon (Cowgirl) asking me if I wanted to join her on a 2 day road trip... we went to the Nature Reserve and Wildlife Park just outside of Christchurch we're I amused everyone by screaming at a pouncing cheetah shortly followed by almost falling out of Shannon’s car... I use the word 'car' very loosely :o/ We then drove to Hanmer Springs to chill out in the spa's there.
Anyway we hit it off and Shannon invited me to join her and her boyfriend Cowboy Cain for a Rodeo weekend in the South Island... How could I refuse...
We picked Cain up from the airport and hit Winchester for the first Rodeo... it was fantastic... lots of sun, fun, and beer... Those Cowboys sure know how to drink.
The second Rodeo of the season was the bigger of the 2 and was held in Methvan, it was packed, as was the town, I've never seen so many cowboy hats in my life... We partied hard and listened to lots of country music... I tried to learn the local etiquette as best I could... I think Shan may make a Cowgirl out of me yet ;o)
I have to say a massive thanx to Shan and Cain for not only taking me to the Rodeo, but for letting me & Mick (The Monkey) hitch a lift all the way back to Hamilton with them, and for them putting me up at their lovely hilltop farm home in Raglan... Raglan is beautiful.
Cheers Guys
Going to Waitomo Glowworm Caves this weekend to do some Blackwater Rafting, Caving & Abseiling (apparently down some waterfalls) should be challenging... or interesting if I have anything to do with it.
From a chilled out Sity in Hamilton...
xx
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Kicking Queenstown
Queenstown was pretty mad...
I hiked up to one of the look outs to see some stunning views of the city as well as have a couple of goes on the hill side Luge ride, take in a Maori show and the sky gondola... apart from that there isn't much else to do in Queenstown except of course all the extreme activities and then there is always drinking, which I am ashamed to say I did quite a lot of...
In fact yesterday we started at midday and hit all the happy hours for all the pubs in Queenstown... finishing at 3am .. hmmm.. no wonder I am feeling a little rundown...
I wasn't a complete waster though I did manage to take in a trip to Te Anau and Milford Sounds... it left Queenstown at 6.30 am and I can't believe that I actually made it, neither could anyone else. It was definitely worth it though the scenery on there and on the way was breathtaking... Whoever said that NZ was a beautiful wasn't kidding...
We managed to take in a few famous sites, including some of the locations used in 'The Lord of the Rings' films... Standing under the waterfall had to be the highlight of the day though... it literally took my breath away.
Arrived in Christchurch yesterday after a 7 hour drive through the center of the South Isalnd and the stunning banks of Lake Tekapo, dropped off the campervan and have basically been sleeping since then... It's Jo and Khisty's last night in NZ today so there is no way that I am going to get away with another night off... Plus the Kiwi bus has just turned up.... ;o)
I'm planning on staying in Christchurch for a week... have managed to score a few nights free accommodation and plan on just chilling out, getting a plan of action together and getting myself back on my feet...
From Christchurch...
xx
I hiked up to one of the look outs to see some stunning views of the city as well as have a couple of goes on the hill side Luge ride, take in a Maori show and the sky gondola... apart from that there isn't much else to do in Queenstown except of course all the extreme activities and then there is always drinking, which I am ashamed to say I did quite a lot of...
In fact yesterday we started at midday and hit all the happy hours for all the pubs in Queenstown... finishing at 3am .. hmmm.. no wonder I am feeling a little rundown...
I wasn't a complete waster though I did manage to take in a trip to Te Anau and Milford Sounds... it left Queenstown at 6.30 am and I can't believe that I actually made it, neither could anyone else. It was definitely worth it though the scenery on there and on the way was breathtaking... Whoever said that NZ was a beautiful wasn't kidding...
We managed to take in a few famous sites, including some of the locations used in 'The Lord of the Rings' films... Standing under the waterfall had to be the highlight of the day though... it literally took my breath away.
Arrived in Christchurch yesterday after a 7 hour drive through the center of the South Isalnd and the stunning banks of Lake Tekapo, dropped off the campervan and have basically been sleeping since then... It's Jo and Khisty's last night in NZ today so there is no way that I am going to get away with another night off... Plus the Kiwi bus has just turned up.... ;o)
I'm planning on staying in Christchurch for a week... have managed to score a few nights free accommodation and plan on just chilling out, getting a plan of action together and getting myself back on my feet...
From Christchurch...
xx
Thursday, October 12, 2006
Seal Attack
The past week has been a bit fly by the seats of our camper....
We pretty much killed the North Island and are well and truly conquering the South...
After a breathtaking channel crossing we hit Kiakoura, where we had some close encounters with Seals and Sea Gulls... I basically got chased around the car park by a ferrule seal, it has got to be one of the sacriest and funniest things to have happened to me in NZ... I think everyone else found it quite amusing too, seeing as they were all in hysterics, you should have seen the look on my face... Priceless... Walked along the stunning coastline and took in the fresh sea breeze before making our way across the Island via Hanmer Springs, Lewis Pass and a Southern Alps snow storm on our way to Franz Josef and our Glacier Hike.
The Glacier Hike was stunning spent 8 hours on the ice caving, tunneling and hiking... got some great pics.
We then headed further south down through Fox Glacier, Haast and Wanaka to Queenstown where we roughed it for our first night and have decided to check into a hostel so we can prep ourselves for a wild weekend... The 'Stray' gang are hot on our tails and should be arriving here tonight so it's gonna get rather messy... I'm loving Queenstown... It's a small town with a city feel.... right up my street.
Not sure what activities we are gonna do here, but the 'Canyon Swing' and the 'Shotover Rafting' looks great...
Watch this space..
p.s. - Wanted to give the BIGGEST SHOUT OUT EVER to Emma and Craig for their wedding day on Saturday 14th, for me that is tomorrow.... Have an awesome day you crazy kidz
My love to the rest of the family too... Have a couple of vinos for me
xx
We pretty much killed the North Island and are well and truly conquering the South...
After a breathtaking channel crossing we hit Kiakoura, where we had some close encounters with Seals and Sea Gulls... I basically got chased around the car park by a ferrule seal, it has got to be one of the sacriest and funniest things to have happened to me in NZ... I think everyone else found it quite amusing too, seeing as they were all in hysterics, you should have seen the look on my face... Priceless... Walked along the stunning coastline and took in the fresh sea breeze before making our way across the Island via Hanmer Springs, Lewis Pass and a Southern Alps snow storm on our way to Franz Josef and our Glacier Hike.
The Glacier Hike was stunning spent 8 hours on the ice caving, tunneling and hiking... got some great pics.
We then headed further south down through Fox Glacier, Haast and Wanaka to Queenstown where we roughed it for our first night and have decided to check into a hostel so we can prep ourselves for a wild weekend... The 'Stray' gang are hot on our tails and should be arriving here tonight so it's gonna get rather messy... I'm loving Queenstown... It's a small town with a city feel.... right up my street.
Not sure what activities we are gonna do here, but the 'Canyon Swing' and the 'Shotover Rafting' looks great...
Watch this space..
p.s. - Wanted to give the BIGGEST SHOUT OUT EVER to Emma and Craig for their wedding day on Saturday 14th, for me that is tomorrow.... Have an awesome day you crazy kidz
My love to the rest of the family too... Have a couple of vinos for me
xx
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Windy Welly
In Wellington at the moment and so far it's been rather interesting... Couldn't find a camp site close to town so ended up parking the van up on the road and sleeping in it there... not good when you work out in the morning that you have been sleeping on some council housing estate!!!
Great... :o/
Anyway treated ourselves to a hostel for the past 2 nights and it's been absolute bliss... We have been hot of the tails of the 'Stray' bus and have been hanging out with the crown from Taupo again... Hoping to meet up with them again in the South. Last night was a bit messy, but we we're celebrating our awesome sky dive and also the fact that we managed to survive the night out on the streets not to mention a whole week in the campervan... yeeehaaa!
Heading South tomorrow to Picton not sure what the plan is from there, but all I know is that it's gonna get even colder... have had to purchase gloves, hats and a new coat... trendy!
Took in the sites of Wellington today via the Cable cart, Botanical Gardens and The Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa... very interesting... learnt lots about the history of NZ
From Welly...
xx
Great... :o/
Anyway treated ourselves to a hostel for the past 2 nights and it's been absolute bliss... We have been hot of the tails of the 'Stray' bus and have been hanging out with the crown from Taupo again... Hoping to meet up with them again in the South. Last night was a bit messy, but we we're celebrating our awesome sky dive and also the fact that we managed to survive the night out on the streets not to mention a whole week in the campervan... yeeehaaa!
Heading South tomorrow to Picton not sure what the plan is from there, but all I know is that it's gonna get even colder... have had to purchase gloves, hats and a new coat... trendy!
Took in the sites of Wellington today via the Cable cart, Botanical Gardens and The Museum of New Zealand - Te Papa... very interesting... learnt lots about the history of NZ
From Welly...
xx
Wednesday, October 04, 2006
EZY Travels
So the girls and I have been on the road since Auckland...
It's been rather cosy the three of us in a two birth campervan, but at least we haven't been getting cold, and it's been a great laugh.
We headed up to the Bay of Islands after leaving X Base Backpackers and my semi-final ,in the pool competition, (much to the dismay of all the men involved), where we took a boat around the bay and did some awesome Dolphin Watching as well as taking in the sites of the famous 'Cod Hole'?!
We then headed south to Rotorua where we spent the day bathing in the volcanic natural spa's, soaking up the Maori culture, and watched the beautiful lakes pass by on our journey even further south to Taupo, the out adventure capital of the North Island. We have booked ourselves on a sky dive for tomorrow, and even though I have been there before, I must admit that I am feeling rather anxious.... Guess I'll give you an update after the event... If I make it through alive!
It's pretty tricky to get to an internet terminal when you're on the road, especially when you are staying on campsites, sometimes without electricity let alone a computer?!
The general plan is to carry on traveling South... To Turangi to do the 'Mokai fox free fall - 180m high at 160kph' then to Wellington and Picton and so on and so on.... We're planning on doing a major sporting activity in each place we visit... Black water rafting sounds quite cool and so does the Zorbing, but we'll have to wait and see if our nerves will be able to cope with the New Zealand sensory overload.
Missing home loads this week... Emma's wedding is coming up soon... Hopefully I'll get sent some good pics...
Till the next time...
xx
It's been rather cosy the three of us in a two birth campervan, but at least we haven't been getting cold, and it's been a great laugh.
We headed up to the Bay of Islands after leaving X Base Backpackers and my semi-final ,in the pool competition, (much to the dismay of all the men involved), where we took a boat around the bay and did some awesome Dolphin Watching as well as taking in the sites of the famous 'Cod Hole'?!
We then headed south to Rotorua where we spent the day bathing in the volcanic natural spa's, soaking up the Maori culture, and watched the beautiful lakes pass by on our journey even further south to Taupo, the out adventure capital of the North Island. We have booked ourselves on a sky dive for tomorrow, and even though I have been there before, I must admit that I am feeling rather anxious.... Guess I'll give you an update after the event... If I make it through alive!
It's pretty tricky to get to an internet terminal when you're on the road, especially when you are staying on campsites, sometimes without electricity let alone a computer?!
The general plan is to carry on traveling South... To Turangi to do the 'Mokai fox free fall - 180m high at 160kph' then to Wellington and Picton and so on and so on.... We're planning on doing a major sporting activity in each place we visit... Black water rafting sounds quite cool and so does the Zorbing, but we'll have to wait and see if our nerves will be able to cope with the New Zealand sensory overload.
Missing home loads this week... Emma's wedding is coming up soon... Hopefully I'll get sent some good pics...
Till the next time...
xx
Sunday, October 01, 2006
A Random Sequence of Events
So far Auckland has been great...
As usual have met some fantastic people... Kiwi's are just as great as Ozzy's although I fear that they would be offended to hear it.
It has been pretty much downhill since I landed in Auckland and got chatting toa couple of Irish lads (Dan & Rob) who talked me into coming to stay at their backpackers (seeing as I didn't have a clue where I was going)... 'Irish'... say's it all!!!
I also met a couple of girls from Manchester (Jo & Chirsty) who are in the process of picking up a campervan to drive to Christchurch over the next 3 weeks... we hit it off soooo well, that they have asked me to join them on their travels... so I will be on the road for the next 3 weeks... Not sure how this whole camping thing works, but I'm sure I'll suss it out eventually. The girls have just arrived from Fiji where they actually made friends with some guy's from Auckland. We hung out with them over the weekend at the 'Auckland Sea Food Festival'... good music, good food and good company. The lads invited us to a couple of house party's this weekend, which we hit hard and then I even managed to make it to 'The Sunday Session' where I went to watch their band play... I have to admit they are pretty good!!!
As far as the touristy things go, I haven't really done much apart from The Auckland Museum, The Sky Tower and the Sea Food Festival. I've been focusing my attentions of mixing it up with the locals, and I think I've done a good job, even if I do say so myself... who said Aucklanders were stuck up?!
From Auckland...
p.s. I managed to put a nights work in at the backpackers I am staying at too, for room and board... First days work in 6 monts... almost killed me... Oh yeah, was my 6 month anniversary of being on the road yesterday... Can't belive I've made it this far!!!
xx
As usual have met some fantastic people... Kiwi's are just as great as Ozzy's although I fear that they would be offended to hear it.
It has been pretty much downhill since I landed in Auckland and got chatting toa couple of Irish lads (Dan & Rob) who talked me into coming to stay at their backpackers (seeing as I didn't have a clue where I was going)... 'Irish'... say's it all!!!
I also met a couple of girls from Manchester (Jo & Chirsty) who are in the process of picking up a campervan to drive to Christchurch over the next 3 weeks... we hit it off soooo well, that they have asked me to join them on their travels... so I will be on the road for the next 3 weeks... Not sure how this whole camping thing works, but I'm sure I'll suss it out eventually. The girls have just arrived from Fiji where they actually made friends with some guy's from Auckland. We hung out with them over the weekend at the 'Auckland Sea Food Festival'... good music, good food and good company. The lads invited us to a couple of house party's this weekend, which we hit hard and then I even managed to make it to 'The Sunday Session' where I went to watch their band play... I have to admit they are pretty good!!!
As far as the touristy things go, I haven't really done much apart from The Auckland Museum, The Sky Tower and the Sea Food Festival. I've been focusing my attentions of mixing it up with the locals, and I think I've done a good job, even if I do say so myself... who said Aucklanders were stuck up?!
From Auckland...
p.s. I managed to put a nights work in at the backpackers I am staying at too, for room and board... First days work in 6 monts... almost killed me... Oh yeah, was my 6 month anniversary of being on the road yesterday... Can't belive I've made it this far!!!
xx
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
Cool Cairns
My 5 days in Cairns has been awesome...
I booked myself on to a 'Liver-Aboard' for 3 days and crammed in loads of diving on the Great Barrier Reef, as well as managing to dive the Yonglla.. Finally!!!
The 'Liver-Aboard' was fantastic, got certified as an 'Adventure Diver' and met loads of like minded people to party with. The staff and crew were great and once we were back on dry land, we hit Cairns hard.
The Journey back from the Boat moored out on the Reef had to be the highlight though, we were lucky enough to be in the company of a Mother Whale and her Baby heading South, 2 months late!!! They should have left the waters around Cairns ages ago, they were sooo close it was mind blowing!
I also did a day trip to Cape Tribulation, which was beautiful and The Oldest Regenerating Tropical Rain Forest in The World', The Daintree.
I've really been cramming in the tourist stuff 'cos I felt like I've been a bit of a bum of recent, but the past 4 days have more than made up for it.
I leave Oz in the morning and I must admit that I will be sad to say good-bye. My time here has been fantastic and I've met soooo many great people that I will miss.
I have to say one last Massive thanx to everyone that I have interacted with here again... you have all been so warm, friendly and hospitable, and if you should ever find yourself in my neck of the woods, be sure to look me up.
Those of you who I have planned to meet up with I hope to see you in the not so distant future, and for those of you whom I fear I will never see again... Take it easy and keep in touch.
From Oz... Over and Out
xx
I booked myself on to a 'Liver-Aboard' for 3 days and crammed in loads of diving on the Great Barrier Reef, as well as managing to dive the Yonglla.. Finally!!!
The 'Liver-Aboard' was fantastic, got certified as an 'Adventure Diver' and met loads of like minded people to party with. The staff and crew were great and once we were back on dry land, we hit Cairns hard.
The Journey back from the Boat moored out on the Reef had to be the highlight though, we were lucky enough to be in the company of a Mother Whale and her Baby heading South, 2 months late!!! They should have left the waters around Cairns ages ago, they were sooo close it was mind blowing!
I also did a day trip to Cape Tribulation, which was beautiful and The Oldest Regenerating Tropical Rain Forest in The World', The Daintree.
I've really been cramming in the tourist stuff 'cos I felt like I've been a bit of a bum of recent, but the past 4 days have more than made up for it.
I leave Oz in the morning and I must admit that I will be sad to say good-bye. My time here has been fantastic and I've met soooo many great people that I will miss.
I have to say one last Massive thanx to everyone that I have interacted with here again... you have all been so warm, friendly and hospitable, and if you should ever find yourself in my neck of the woods, be sure to look me up.
Those of you who I have planned to meet up with I hope to see you in the not so distant future, and for those of you whom I fear I will never see again... Take it easy and keep in touch.
From Oz... Over and Out
xx
Saturday, September 23, 2006
Barricaded Inn
I said a sorry farewell to Micha, Margo and Grant and the small city of Townsville this morning to head further up the coast to my final Ozzy destination... Cairns!!!
I love it hear and its gonna be a pretty busy place for me, I'm booked on to a Live-a-board dive trip for the next 3 days and then I'm spending the next couple of days on a tour up to Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation and The Daintree Rainforest... I'm sooo looking forward to doing some more diving, trekking and kayaking, I feel like I have been a total bum for the past 3 weeks, so as usual I am going to spend the next 4/5 days making up for it, it's a tough job but someone has to do it!!!
I do miss Townsville though and I'm going to take some great memories of the place with me, Micha (aka Mishka) and I just spent the last 2 days giggling and reeking havoc around the city... once again met some great people and had lots of fun... did you expect anything less?!
Magnetic Island was beautiful, (even though it was preparing itself for the full Moon party that night), as was the Aquarium, I wouldn't normally have visited yet another aquarium, but it is 'The Largest Coral Reef Aquarium in The World', so it had to be done, and it was well worth it... Learnt loads about Marine life.
I guess I'll give you an update when I get back from the last of my Ozzy adventures...
Till then
xx
p.s. - Massive thanx to Margo, Grant and Kizza for letting me stay in their beautiful house and chasing around after me.
I love it hear and its gonna be a pretty busy place for me, I'm booked on to a Live-a-board dive trip for the next 3 days and then I'm spending the next couple of days on a tour up to Port Douglas, Cape Tribulation and The Daintree Rainforest... I'm sooo looking forward to doing some more diving, trekking and kayaking, I feel like I have been a total bum for the past 3 weeks, so as usual I am going to spend the next 4/5 days making up for it, it's a tough job but someone has to do it!!!
I do miss Townsville though and I'm going to take some great memories of the place with me, Micha (aka Mishka) and I just spent the last 2 days giggling and reeking havoc around the city... once again met some great people and had lots of fun... did you expect anything less?!
Magnetic Island was beautiful, (even though it was preparing itself for the full Moon party that night), as was the Aquarium, I wouldn't normally have visited yet another aquarium, but it is 'The Largest Coral Reef Aquarium in The World', so it had to be done, and it was well worth it... Learnt loads about Marine life.
I guess I'll give you an update when I get back from the last of my Ozzy adventures...
Till then
xx
p.s. - Massive thanx to Margo, Grant and Kizza for letting me stay in their beautiful house and chasing around after me.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
Shhhh... Don't mention the 'T' word
After making a sneaky escape from Airlie Beach where apart from making a new group of friends, getting ridiculously drunk and taking in the amazing scenery, I managed to gain myself a nick name...
Its not Sity, to match Ozzy style its been changed to Sito (pronounced Sid-doe) lol, Thanx DJ and Pistol Pete ;o)
Am in Townsville now staying with Jess's folks in their amazing house. (Jess from Brizzy... Thanx mate... you hooked me up and I appreciate it).
One thing I have noticed is that no one from Townsville actually likes to admit that they are from Townsville, so for their sake I have been forced to refer to the 'T' word as a Southern Suburb of Cairns.
Meeting up with Micha tomorrow for some drinks, the hitting Magnetic Island, before setting sail for my long awaited diving trip to the ship wreck of the SS Yongala...
Can't wait
xx
Its not Sity, to match Ozzy style its been changed to Sito (pronounced Sid-doe) lol, Thanx DJ and Pistol Pete ;o)
Am in Townsville now staying with Jess's folks in their amazing house. (Jess from Brizzy... Thanx mate... you hooked me up and I appreciate it).
One thing I have noticed is that no one from Townsville actually likes to admit that they are from Townsville, so for their sake I have been forced to refer to the 'T' word as a Southern Suburb of Cairns.
Meeting up with Micha tomorrow for some drinks, the hitting Magnetic Island, before setting sail for my long awaited diving trip to the ship wreck of the SS Yongala...
Can't wait
xx
Tuesday, September 19, 2006
Heavenly Hervey Hitch Hike
Number 1 on 'The Most Random' thing to have happened to me on this trip so far....
Hervey Bay was beautiful as was fraser Island, but I didn't hang around there for too long. After meeting a couple of ladies from Brisbane and dining with then, I got chatting to a guy who happened to be the captain of a $6 million boat... He was heading North to Airlie Beach which was my next stop, so I jumped on board for a 2 day boat trip along the east coat of Oz stopping off in a couple of places along the way... It was amazing lots of Whales and Dolphins, not to mention a life of luxury... I struck gold I can tell you... We traveled around lots of Islands along the way and The Whitsunday's, and I kayaked yesterday too, it was sooo beautiful.
I'll get photos up as soon as I can!!!
I was sad to leave Brisbane and think about it all the time though... My 2 weeks there were bloody strange too.. anyone who met me would agree I think!?
I've been in Airlie beach for the past 4 days, and I can tell you things haven't been much calmer here.. In fact today I even have the shakes...
I met a group of lunatics on my first night here, who befriended me, and won't let me leave, I've pretty much been partying with them. We had a house party last night and things got messy.. thus the shakes and feeling a little worse for ware..
Bumped into one of my friend from Thailand (Finn from Master Divers) today haven't seen him for 3 months... random!!! Am gonna meet up with him for dinner tonight... Never ceases to amaze me how small the world really is!
Heading to Townsville tomorrow, where things should calm down a bit... I hope???
Till then...
xx
Hervey Bay was beautiful as was fraser Island, but I didn't hang around there for too long. After meeting a couple of ladies from Brisbane and dining with then, I got chatting to a guy who happened to be the captain of a $6 million boat... He was heading North to Airlie Beach which was my next stop, so I jumped on board for a 2 day boat trip along the east coat of Oz stopping off in a couple of places along the way... It was amazing lots of Whales and Dolphins, not to mention a life of luxury... I struck gold I can tell you... We traveled around lots of Islands along the way and The Whitsunday's, and I kayaked yesterday too, it was sooo beautiful.
I'll get photos up as soon as I can!!!
I was sad to leave Brisbane and think about it all the time though... My 2 weeks there were bloody strange too.. anyone who met me would agree I think!?
I've been in Airlie beach for the past 4 days, and I can tell you things haven't been much calmer here.. In fact today I even have the shakes...
I met a group of lunatics on my first night here, who befriended me, and won't let me leave, I've pretty much been partying with them. We had a house party last night and things got messy.. thus the shakes and feeling a little worse for ware..
Bumped into one of my friend from Thailand (Finn from Master Divers) today haven't seen him for 3 months... random!!! Am gonna meet up with him for dinner tonight... Never ceases to amaze me how small the world really is!
Heading to Townsville tomorrow, where things should calm down a bit... I hope???
Till then...
xx
Tuesday, September 12, 2006
A Very Sticky Bussiness
I AM STILL STUCK IN BRISBANE!!!!!
Oh my god, I need to sort myself out... (I should have been in and out of Hervey Bay and Fraser Island by now). The past week here has got to be up there in my top 1- 5 most Bizzare weeks.
It's been a massive mix of Clubs, House party's, BBQ's and Chill out sessions, not to mension, Beache's and Ice Cream Cake!!!
It all started in on Thursday when a quite drink trrned into a session with a group of Pikey's, then a night out on the town with the girls where I just so happened to bump into Shan (mate from Byron Bay) who in turn introduced us to all of his awesome mates... not frogetting poor unsuspecting Mike from the stairs (it's his own fault fro loitoring, poor guy didn't know what hit him). Following a bizzar series of events we (Komil and I) have managed to get ourselve well and truely entangled in a whirl wind of strange events mixed up with a whole group of great people. I don't know where to begin explaining so I'm just gonna leave it there.
All I'm gonna say is that I'm going to be extremly sad to leave 'Briz Vegus' and the people here, but we have made plans to hang out all over the world, and I am sure that our paths will cross again..
My love to the whole Brizzy gang... you guys are great
xx
p.s. - Anyone that I have met in Brizzy will know exactaly what I mean by the title of this blogg entry
;o)
Oh my god, I need to sort myself out... (I should have been in and out of Hervey Bay and Fraser Island by now). The past week here has got to be up there in my top 1- 5 most Bizzare weeks.
It's been a massive mix of Clubs, House party's, BBQ's and Chill out sessions, not to mension, Beache's and Ice Cream Cake!!!
It all started in on Thursday when a quite drink trrned into a session with a group of Pikey's, then a night out on the town with the girls where I just so happened to bump into Shan (mate from Byron Bay) who in turn introduced us to all of his awesome mates... not frogetting poor unsuspecting Mike from the stairs (it's his own fault fro loitoring, poor guy didn't know what hit him). Following a bizzar series of events we (Komil and I) have managed to get ourselve well and truely entangled in a whirl wind of strange events mixed up with a whole group of great people. I don't know where to begin explaining so I'm just gonna leave it there.
All I'm gonna say is that I'm going to be extremly sad to leave 'Briz Vegus' and the people here, but we have made plans to hang out all over the world, and I am sure that our paths will cross again..
My love to the whole Brizzy gang... you guys are great
xx
p.s. - Anyone that I have met in Brizzy will know exactaly what I mean by the title of this blogg entry
;o)
Thursday, September 07, 2006
Ball Bustin' Brisbane
I had a fantastic day yesterday..
Komil and I get along amazingly well... Have just spent the last 3 days giggling and doing girly things, was supposed to be taking it easy, but as you can imagine, it ain't happening...
After 2 days of drinking and eating lots of chocolate we decided that we should haul our lazy arses to the gym... Komil took me to her Yoga class and then a Boxing lesson... it was pretty tough work, after being out of action for 5 months, my body is paying for it today I can tell you, and didn't have to pay a penny for it... We just told them that I was thinking of moving here... sorry :o/
We headed into the City so that I could finalise my route and date changes with Qantas and managed to get a free massage in the park... it was awesome, probably the best massage I've ever had... all in all a good day so far.
We headed to The Valley and China town for some lunch and a few drinks and didn’t get back home until the early house of the morning... Got chatting to some locals who kept plying us with alcohol and loads of laughs, so how could we resist... Once again my chilled out night with a quite couple of drinks turned out to be the complete opposite... Oh well, you'd think I'd be used to that by now... but I still get surprised by it every time... lol
Anyway heading to the Gold Coast today to hang out on the beach, before hitting The Valley hard tonight... It is Friday you know?!
;o)
p.s. I’m missing home a lot today... Had a dream about the bowl last night... the original gang was in there... I miss you guys, especially Robert
xx
Komil and I get along amazingly well... Have just spent the last 3 days giggling and doing girly things, was supposed to be taking it easy, but as you can imagine, it ain't happening...
After 2 days of drinking and eating lots of chocolate we decided that we should haul our lazy arses to the gym... Komil took me to her Yoga class and then a Boxing lesson... it was pretty tough work, after being out of action for 5 months, my body is paying for it today I can tell you, and didn't have to pay a penny for it... We just told them that I was thinking of moving here... sorry :o/
We headed into the City so that I could finalise my route and date changes with Qantas and managed to get a free massage in the park... it was awesome, probably the best massage I've ever had... all in all a good day so far.
We headed to The Valley and China town for some lunch and a few drinks and didn’t get back home until the early house of the morning... Got chatting to some locals who kept plying us with alcohol and loads of laughs, so how could we resist... Once again my chilled out night with a quite couple of drinks turned out to be the complete opposite... Oh well, you'd think I'd be used to that by now... but I still get surprised by it every time... lol
Anyway heading to the Gold Coast today to hang out on the beach, before hitting The Valley hard tonight... It is Friday you know?!
;o)
p.s. I’m missing home a lot today... Had a dream about the bowl last night... the original gang was in there... I miss you guys, especially Robert
xx
Tuesday, September 05, 2006
Besotted with Byron
Had to go back to Byron to pick up my heart... I loved it there, was sooo chilled out and hand such an awesome time hanging out at the 'Bunkhouse' with all the other weirdo’s and freaks that I had to go back for more punishment...
Dane had the weekend off work so went back so that I couldn’t hang out with him some more (seeing as I was slack in contacting him on my 'waster weekend')
Had a great time hanging out with him… and his psycho mates, who managed to get their hands on my camera, and take some very strange photos… not sure if they are suitable for flickr though?!
(I’ll update my photos this week for sure)
Met some lovely young ladies from Brisbane in Byron Bay (Melissa and Miranda) who let me jump in with them on the way up the East Coast… Those girls are crazy…
I have to shout a MASSIVE THANX to Mel for putting me up at her place and taking me out in Brizzy for my first crazy night… you’re a legend girl… Don’t go changing!
Managed to track down Komil (one of my girly friends from Thailand) and am currently residing with her and her family. They own a chain of restaurants so I fear that I will have to go on some ruthless diet when I get out of Brisbane. Went shopping today in Brizzy CBD and caught the City Cat down the river to ‘West end’ at dusk, was sooo pretty. Went to some funky bars and cafes… 3 Monkeys'' is a great place if you ever get the chance to check it out… you should!
Komil’s friend is coming down to visit her this weekend from Townsville, so I have decided to hang around here until then… we’re gonna have a girly weekend on the coast so it should be pretty eventful, gonna try and squeeze in some Whale Watching too, seeing as it’s Migration Season… can’t wait.
Have to say I’m missing Byron a lot… :o(
Note for Dane: Remember you pinky promised!!!! ;o)
xx
Dane had the weekend off work so went back so that I couldn’t hang out with him some more (seeing as I was slack in contacting him on my 'waster weekend')
Had a great time hanging out with him… and his psycho mates, who managed to get their hands on my camera, and take some very strange photos… not sure if they are suitable for flickr though?!
(I’ll update my photos this week for sure)
Met some lovely young ladies from Brisbane in Byron Bay (Melissa and Miranda) who let me jump in with them on the way up the East Coast… Those girls are crazy…
I have to shout a MASSIVE THANX to Mel for putting me up at her place and taking me out in Brizzy for my first crazy night… you’re a legend girl… Don’t go changing!
Managed to track down Komil (one of my girly friends from Thailand) and am currently residing with her and her family. They own a chain of restaurants so I fear that I will have to go on some ruthless diet when I get out of Brisbane. Went shopping today in Brizzy CBD and caught the City Cat down the river to ‘West end’ at dusk, was sooo pretty. Went to some funky bars and cafes… 3 Monkeys'' is a great place if you ever get the chance to check it out… you should!
Komil’s friend is coming down to visit her this weekend from Townsville, so I have decided to hang around here until then… we’re gonna have a girly weekend on the coast so it should be pretty eventful, gonna try and squeeze in some Whale Watching too, seeing as it’s Migration Season… can’t wait.
Have to say I’m missing Byron a lot… :o(
Note for Dane: Remember you pinky promised!!!! ;o)
xx
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
'Goofy Feet'
Ok Ok
So I wasn't actually as bad at surfing as I imagined I would be.. In fact I have signed up for another lesson, I fear this will be another expensive hobby... Thankfully not one that I will be able to pursue greatly when I get back, unless I decide to move down to the coast (to surf for one week of the year when the sun shines... lol). (I managed to get some photos too, which should be interesting... will get them up when I get the chance)
Hung out with Dane (friend from Bali) for my last couple of nights in Byron before heading to Nimbin, it was fantastic, really laid back town with more to it than meets the eye.. I managed to get a free tour with a local guide who showed me some of the interesting things going on in and around Nimbin before taking me out to Uki where I spent the night out in the forest, in a TENT!!! It was pretty hair raising.
I woke at 3 am to start my 9k trek up the core of Mt Warning (200 million years old and was the biggest volcano in the Southern Hemisphere) in pitch darkness!!! One of the scariest things I have ever done (considering you can chuck me out of a plane I reckon that's saying something) I was in the Mt Warning rainforest for 5 hrs on my own and only managed to relax when I reached the top (around 1500 meters above sea level) for sunrise. The trek back down wasn't too bad, I saw some awesome views, once again photos just don't do it justice. The 200m sheer rock climb was pretty challenging but rewarding to say the least.
Not sure what I'm doing next so watch this space for an update
xx
So I wasn't actually as bad at surfing as I imagined I would be.. In fact I have signed up for another lesson, I fear this will be another expensive hobby... Thankfully not one that I will be able to pursue greatly when I get back, unless I decide to move down to the coast (to surf for one week of the year when the sun shines... lol). (I managed to get some photos too, which should be interesting... will get them up when I get the chance)
Hung out with Dane (friend from Bali) for my last couple of nights in Byron before heading to Nimbin, it was fantastic, really laid back town with more to it than meets the eye.. I managed to get a free tour with a local guide who showed me some of the interesting things going on in and around Nimbin before taking me out to Uki where I spent the night out in the forest, in a TENT!!! It was pretty hair raising.
I woke at 3 am to start my 9k trek up the core of Mt Warning (200 million years old and was the biggest volcano in the Southern Hemisphere) in pitch darkness!!! One of the scariest things I have ever done (considering you can chuck me out of a plane I reckon that's saying something) I was in the Mt Warning rainforest for 5 hrs on my own and only managed to relax when I reached the top (around 1500 meters above sea level) for sunrise. The trek back down wasn't too bad, I saw some awesome views, once again photos just don't do it justice. The 200m sheer rock climb was pretty challenging but rewarding to say the least.
Not sure what I'm doing next so watch this space for an update
xx
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Byron Bay Bunkhouse!
Byron is wicked...
I have been a complete waster.... Thanx to the fact that I arrived on the weekend, I can completely write off the last 3 days.
It all started on Friday night when I rocked up here an hour later than expected (thanx to the train) at 9pm, where I thought I wouldn't be able to find a room!!!
As it happened I came upon a place called the 'Bunkhouse' where I met a group of people just getting ready to hit the town, I'm afraid it was all downhill from there. I'm surprised that no one broke their necks dancing on the tables at 'Cheekys'.
Once again I met some great people... Have to give a shout out to Emily, Sham, Colin, Terry, Dave and John! ... You guys are too funny.
Started my Saturday morning with a Vodka / Lemonade Brekkie (Thanx Sham) followed by beers on the beach... Ouch... Not quite sure what happened after that, its a bit of a haze, but woke up round 8 pm to get ready to hit the town again for a bar crawl and collect lots of stamps and watch some live bands.
'Cos I felt soooo guilty about being SUCH a waster over the weekend, I decided that I should actually do something of personal value so, once functionality had resumed I booked myself onto a surf lesson (which is this afternoon... Should be interesting) and also being the 'fly by the seat of my pants' kindda gal that I am, I have decided to go to Nimbin tomorrow (for those of you who have never heard of it, you should look it up, it's kind of obvious what I'm gonna be doing there) and then I am going to spend the night in the jungle and climb up Mt Warning... at 3am... to watch the sunrise!!! God I'm tough on myself...
Watch this space for photos...
One Final shout out to Chris.... 'Go On Son', and keep collecting those stamps... I'm way ahead of you.
;o)
I have been a complete waster.... Thanx to the fact that I arrived on the weekend, I can completely write off the last 3 days.
It all started on Friday night when I rocked up here an hour later than expected (thanx to the train) at 9pm, where I thought I wouldn't be able to find a room!!!
As it happened I came upon a place called the 'Bunkhouse' where I met a group of people just getting ready to hit the town, I'm afraid it was all downhill from there. I'm surprised that no one broke their necks dancing on the tables at 'Cheekys'.
Once again I met some great people... Have to give a shout out to Emily, Sham, Colin, Terry, Dave and John! ... You guys are too funny.
Started my Saturday morning with a Vodka / Lemonade Brekkie (Thanx Sham) followed by beers on the beach... Ouch... Not quite sure what happened after that, its a bit of a haze, but woke up round 8 pm to get ready to hit the town again for a bar crawl and collect lots of stamps and watch some live bands.
'Cos I felt soooo guilty about being SUCH a waster over the weekend, I decided that I should actually do something of personal value so, once functionality had resumed I booked myself onto a surf lesson (which is this afternoon... Should be interesting) and also being the 'fly by the seat of my pants' kindda gal that I am, I have decided to go to Nimbin tomorrow (for those of you who have never heard of it, you should look it up, it's kind of obvious what I'm gonna be doing there) and then I am going to spend the night in the jungle and climb up Mt Warning... at 3am... to watch the sunrise!!! God I'm tough on myself...
Watch this space for photos...
One Final shout out to Chris.... 'Go On Son', and keep collecting those stamps... I'm way ahead of you.
;o)
Seductive Sawtell
Sawtell has some of the most amazing beaches I have ever seen... May have something to do with the fact that they are deserted most of the time save for a few surfers and sea hawks.
Spent 4 days at Tony's place polishing off his latest brew and chilling out on the beach with the house mates (Kat, Tim, Tony and Mike). Sawtell is funky and quaint just a stones throw from Choffs Harbor with its swanky shops and cafes.
Have to say a huge thanx to them for making me feel so welcome. I had a great time. (Guys if you ever find yourself in my neck of the woods, be sure to look me up).
Heading to Byron Bay next, where I should be hooking up with Dane from Bali...?!
Till then
Spent 4 days at Tony's place polishing off his latest brew and chilling out on the beach with the house mates (Kat, Tim, Tony and Mike). Sawtell is funky and quaint just a stones throw from Choffs Harbor with its swanky shops and cafes.
Have to say a huge thanx to them for making me feel so welcome. I had a great time. (Guys if you ever find yourself in my neck of the woods, be sure to look me up).
Heading to Byron Bay next, where I should be hooking up with Dane from Bali...?!
Till then
Monday, August 21, 2006
Peaceful Port
Port Macquarie is B-A-U-Tiful, as are the people. After an amazing journey further up the East Coast of Australia (Newcastle to Port) with Pete and Narelle, I found myself in the scenic town of Port Macquarie.
Pete and Narelle (Terry’s Auntie and Uncle) have an amazing new apartment right on the Canal running up to main Port. I just wanted to say a MASSIVE THANX to them for their warm Ozzy hospitality… They REALLY took me ‘Off the beaten track’ and showed me some breathtaking outback scenery, as well as putting me up in their great waterfront apartment.
I’ll get some photo’s up when I get the chance.
Heading to Tony’s place tomorrow ‘bout 10mins from Coffs Harbor… I was in two minds as to whether I was gonna stop there originally, but the guy is brewing his own beer… first batch exploded… should be interesting, how could I possibly resist!!! ;o)
Watch this space
xx
Pete and Narelle (Terry’s Auntie and Uncle) have an amazing new apartment right on the Canal running up to main Port. I just wanted to say a MASSIVE THANX to them for their warm Ozzy hospitality… They REALLY took me ‘Off the beaten track’ and showed me some breathtaking outback scenery, as well as putting me up in their great waterfront apartment.
I’ll get some photo’s up when I get the chance.
Heading to Tony’s place tomorrow ‘bout 10mins from Coffs Harbor… I was in two minds as to whether I was gonna stop there originally, but the guy is brewing his own beer… first batch exploded… should be interesting, how could I possibly resist!!! ;o)
Watch this space
xx
Saturday, August 19, 2006
Farewell Freinds :o(
So after a rip roaring final night in 'Newy', I say goodbye to all the friends that I have made here, and the McLeod’s... They have been great, and I can't thank them enough.
I should be heading North today with Terry’s Auntie and Uncle to Port Macquarie and hanging out with them for a while, we are stopping off in a few places along the way, including Terry's Nanna in Forster for tea.... should be interesting... so I've been told anyway, a bit like last night.
Went to a Japanese restaurant for dinner with the whole family, then the kidz went out and partied... that includes me to (by the way) it was awesome... you can check out the pics.
That was the second night in a row, after having had dinner with Terry's mum and co the night before, I didn't think that I would be able to handle another night out on the town with 'The Family', but some how I managed to struggle through lol ;o) (you guy's are great)
From Newy
xx
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
It's My Party.... so there!
Ok so I’m still in
Terry’s dad shares the same Birthday as me, so we’re gonna have a double celebration today, in true Ozzy style we’re gonna have a BBQ before we hit town tonight!!!
One word regarding last night… messy!!! I don’t think that I have been that plastered since I was 15! 10 years ago!!! :o/ Good start to the Birthday celebrations I guess… Wonder what will happen tonight… watch this space for the next instalment.
Missing you all heaps
'Sensible Sity'xx
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