Hi all - Is anyone reading this now???
Anyway arrived back home at 4 on Tuesday and would you believe it by 6 Ceri and I had a bump in her car. I've travelled thousands of miles without incident and back home for 2 minutes and a scooter driver drove into us - everyone is ok though so not to worry.
|t's been really strange settling back in - there is so much washing and paperwork to catch up on and I can feel that I'm restless to be out and about as soon as possible.
I must say though Dave has looked after the house and car really well, so there's not too much to do on that score.
The next few weeks will be bringing my CV up to date and getting some gainful employment and also making sure I get back in touch with all those people I met along away.
Even with the current economic climate, I have no regrets about taking 6 months off - it's been an amazing adventure and am blessed that I was in a position to be able to do it.
The next blog will probably be the last and I'tt do that over the next few weeks when I've had time to revisit all my notes and photos.
Love to all
Sue. xxxxxxxxxx
Friday, 24 October 2008
Monday, 20 October 2008
Last day in San Francisco
As ever I'm staggered by how quickly the time has gone during the last week.
Yesterday Karen and I went to the Catholic church which was full and with people standing.
Having fulfilled our spiritual needs we met Leslie and her husband Ken for lunch over near where Karen used to live. Brunch here is never small but it was good food and then on to the Yacht club for drinks on the deck which overlooks the Bay and bridges in the distance. It was a beautiful day and we sat and chatted with members of the club - oh how the other half live!!
In the evening Frank, Marisol and her boyfriend Thomas came round and Karen cooked a lovely roast lamb dinner. Lots of wine, bacardi and good company for my last night here in San Francisco.
This morning will be spent packing my rucksack for the last time and figuring out how I'm going to get everything in - I do usually manage it though.
I did have a minor panic when I tried to check my flights online to find that my flight number and flight times didn't match. The number I had was due to fly at 1pm and it was 11am and I hadn't packed. After a few phones cals (with automated voices) I eventually got through to someone who confirmed that I was on the 7.20pm flight so near heart attack avoided. Phew !
So here I am at the end of a fantastic 6 and a half months which have given me so many memorable times and treasured moments.
I am so looking forward to coming home and seeing Ceri,Dave and our Rubes and of course all of my friends, but most of all (and I can share this news with you now) becoming a grandma in March next year - Yes Ceri and Mark are expecting!!
I'd better go and pack now and once I'm back I'll probably do one more blog when I reflect on my trip.
Thank you all so much for following my blog and keeping me company while I've been away.
Take care and love to all
Sue. xxxxxxxxxxxx
Yesterday Karen and I went to the Catholic church which was full and with people standing.
Having fulfilled our spiritual needs we met Leslie and her husband Ken for lunch over near where Karen used to live. Brunch here is never small but it was good food and then on to the Yacht club for drinks on the deck which overlooks the Bay and bridges in the distance. It was a beautiful day and we sat and chatted with members of the club - oh how the other half live!!
In the evening Frank, Marisol and her boyfriend Thomas came round and Karen cooked a lovely roast lamb dinner. Lots of wine, bacardi and good company for my last night here in San Francisco.
This morning will be spent packing my rucksack for the last time and figuring out how I'm going to get everything in - I do usually manage it though.
I did have a minor panic when I tried to check my flights online to find that my flight number and flight times didn't match. The number I had was due to fly at 1pm and it was 11am and I hadn't packed. After a few phones cals (with automated voices) I eventually got through to someone who confirmed that I was on the 7.20pm flight so near heart attack avoided. Phew !
So here I am at the end of a fantastic 6 and a half months which have given me so many memorable times and treasured moments.
I am so looking forward to coming home and seeing Ceri,Dave and our Rubes and of course all of my friends, but most of all (and I can share this news with you now) becoming a grandma in March next year - Yes Ceri and Mark are expecting!!
I'd better go and pack now and once I'm back I'll probably do one more blog when I reflect on my trip.
Thank you all so much for following my blog and keeping me company while I've been away.
Take care and love to all
Sue. xxxxxxxxxxxx
Saturday, 18 October 2008
Luxury at the Ritz
It's Friday and today we met up with TK, one of Karen's friends, and went to the Ritz Carlton in Half Moon Bay for lunch.
It was a lovely drive down along the coast and I couldn't believe how many places were selling hundreds of pumpkins ready for Halloween. They were laid out in the fields and as you came round the corner - that's all you saw, they were in the fields, on the farm buildings, there were huge 'models' of pumpkins - everywhere was orange.
Arrived and the car was taken by the valets to park, we were greeted like royalty and it reminded me of the scene from Pretty Woman when he takes her to his hotel.
We met TK who's really nice and was so interested in my travels and volunteering. We sipped champagne on the terrace and watched the sea breaking on the rocks and a few golfers pottering around the golf course - it was a such a beautiful sunny day too.
The call came to take our table for lunch and we ordered a cheese plate to share as a starter which had lots of cheeses I'd never tasted before, with fruit bread, apricot jam and red wine to wash it down. I had a bacardi cocktail and the waiter, Kasim, was really polite and helpful and had a great sense of humour. Lunch was leisurely with lots of talk and before we knew it, it was going on for 4pm.
We said our goodbyes to TK and Karen took me to La Honda which is Arianna's (Martin's girlfriend) parents house and where Martin filmed a great deal of the Real Gods film. Her mum Toni was there and we sat out on the deck, drinking red wine and enjoying the sun before it was time to go home.
It's been a lovely day.
Hope you're OK mam - see you soon
Love Sue. xx
It was a lovely drive down along the coast and I couldn't believe how many places were selling hundreds of pumpkins ready for Halloween. They were laid out in the fields and as you came round the corner - that's all you saw, they were in the fields, on the farm buildings, there were huge 'models' of pumpkins - everywhere was orange.
Arrived and the car was taken by the valets to park, we were greeted like royalty and it reminded me of the scene from Pretty Woman when he takes her to his hotel.
We met TK who's really nice and was so interested in my travels and volunteering. We sipped champagne on the terrace and watched the sea breaking on the rocks and a few golfers pottering around the golf course - it was a such a beautiful sunny day too.
The call came to take our table for lunch and we ordered a cheese plate to share as a starter which had lots of cheeses I'd never tasted before, with fruit bread, apricot jam and red wine to wash it down. I had a bacardi cocktail and the waiter, Kasim, was really polite and helpful and had a great sense of humour. Lunch was leisurely with lots of talk and before we knew it, it was going on for 4pm.
We said our goodbyes to TK and Karen took me to La Honda which is Arianna's (Martin's girlfriend) parents house and where Martin filmed a great deal of the Real Gods film. Her mum Toni was there and we sat out on the deck, drinking red wine and enjoying the sun before it was time to go home.
It's been a lovely day.
Hope you're OK mam - see you soon
Love Sue. xx
Friday, 17 October 2008
Relaxed days
Well I can't believe it's already Friday and I've had such a relaxing time which is very much appreciated after such a hectic time. I sleep so well here and could easily lie in till midday but I do manage to drag myself out of bed by 8.
I haven't ventured too far here as I can sit on Karen's balcony and take in the lovely views of the city. Karen and I did venture down to pier 39 on Wednesday to see the masses of sea lions there - they are very loud and the aroma is not quite your Chanelle, but it took me back to when I first visited San Francisco.
A lot of time has been spent just catching up with Karen and looking at old photos and just reminiscing. In the evenings Frank has come over and we've had dinner whilst talking about his home country - Nicaragua and looking at ways how we can help this very poor country.
It's been good to be able to pick up the phone too and talk to Rubes, Ceri, Dave and Jeanette without worrying about the credit on my phone. I'll catch you in yet Yas!!
It's great to be able to access the internet without worrying about time or whose looking over your shoulder.
Looking forward to seeing you all when I get home next Tuesday
Love Sue xx
I haven't ventured too far here as I can sit on Karen's balcony and take in the lovely views of the city. Karen and I did venture down to pier 39 on Wednesday to see the masses of sea lions there - they are very loud and the aroma is not quite your Chanelle, but it took me back to when I first visited San Francisco.
A lot of time has been spent just catching up with Karen and looking at old photos and just reminiscing. In the evenings Frank has come over and we've had dinner whilst talking about his home country - Nicaragua and looking at ways how we can help this very poor country.
It's been good to be able to pick up the phone too and talk to Rubes, Ceri, Dave and Jeanette without worrying about the credit on my phone. I'll catch you in yet Yas!!
It's great to be able to access the internet without worrying about time or whose looking over your shoulder.
Looking forward to seeing you all when I get home next Tuesday
Love Sue xx
Wednesday, 15 October 2008
San Francisco - Monday
Flight into San Francisco landed early but apparently the equipment to unload the luggage kept failing so I had to wait ages for my rucksack. (pain in the neck!)
It was strange arriving on the same day and before the time that I left New Zealand considering the flight was 12 hours, I left New Zealand on Monday at 7.30 pm and arrived in SF at 11 am on Monday - really freaky!
Karen was there to meet me and it was so good catching up with familiar faces after such a long time away - missed you being there too Yas. That's not to say I didn't want to see my mam and ceri and dave - it's just Karen Yas and I are the 3 witches....
I met Karen's new man Frank in the evening and we talked about his home country - Nicaragua which sounds like another place I should visit.
Had a lovely bath and washed my hair which I actually dried with a hairdryer - it's surprising what you realise you've missed when you've been away.
Karen's new place is really lovely and bright and has a great view of the city so tomorrow I will probably go for a little walk after a good night's sleep
Love. Sue xx
It was strange arriving on the same day and before the time that I left New Zealand considering the flight was 12 hours, I left New Zealand on Monday at 7.30 pm and arrived in SF at 11 am on Monday - really freaky!
Karen was there to meet me and it was so good catching up with familiar faces after such a long time away - missed you being there too Yas. That's not to say I didn't want to see my mam and ceri and dave - it's just Karen Yas and I are the 3 witches....
I met Karen's new man Frank in the evening and we talked about his home country - Nicaragua which sounds like another place I should visit.
Had a lovely bath and washed my hair which I actually dried with a hairdryer - it's surprising what you realise you've missed when you've been away.
Karen's new place is really lovely and bright and has a great view of the city so tomorrow I will probably go for a little walk after a good night's sleep
Love. Sue xx
San Francisco - Filling in the gaps
After Mount Cook, Sue drove us back to Christchurch where I would spend the night before my flight to San Francisco.
On route we stopped at a church (as it was Sunday)which had the most spectacular view of a lake from the Altar window. Then we travelled on to a wool wholesalers which was called the "Tin Shed' Quaint little place which was in A TIN Shed and it sold hand creams and merino woollen hats, gloves, jumpers coats etc and it gave away free tea/coffee and cookies.
Outside there were paddocks with sheep, pigs, llamas, chickens and rabbits which you could go in and feed the animals. A really cute place
Back in Christchurch and I'd booked into a lovely hotel which was 'tudor?' style. The room was huge and the double bed so comfortable that I couldn't sleep. Outside was a replica of the Excalibur sword set in a stone and all the rooms had names like Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleaves etc.
We had our farewell meal out in town and it was sad to say 'goodbye' to the people I'd shared the last 21 days with. I know I'll stay in touch with quite a few people that I've met along the way and once I'm back in the UK, there'll be lots of catching up to do.
The following morning I went into Christchurch and did a whistle stop tour of the town with Lisa on an old tram . I then took a look around the Cathedral and took photos of the 'modern' art - A huge chalice and a giant purple sperm which were right in front of the Cathedral - what's that all about!
After Lunch the shuttle bus picked me up from the hotel and off via Auckland to San Francisco. Homeward stretch now!
Love Sue
On route we stopped at a church (as it was Sunday)which had the most spectacular view of a lake from the Altar window. Then we travelled on to a wool wholesalers which was called the "Tin Shed' Quaint little place which was in A TIN Shed and it sold hand creams and merino woollen hats, gloves, jumpers coats etc and it gave away free tea/coffee and cookies.
Outside there were paddocks with sheep, pigs, llamas, chickens and rabbits which you could go in and feed the animals. A really cute place
Back in Christchurch and I'd booked into a lovely hotel which was 'tudor?' style. The room was huge and the double bed so comfortable that I couldn't sleep. Outside was a replica of the Excalibur sword set in a stone and all the rooms had names like Jane Seymour, Anne of Cleaves etc.
We had our farewell meal out in town and it was sad to say 'goodbye' to the people I'd shared the last 21 days with. I know I'll stay in touch with quite a few people that I've met along the way and once I'm back in the UK, there'll be lots of catching up to do.
The following morning I went into Christchurch and did a whistle stop tour of the town with Lisa on an old tram . I then took a look around the Cathedral and took photos of the 'modern' art - A huge chalice and a giant purple sperm which were right in front of the Cathedral - what's that all about!
After Lunch the shuttle bus picked me up from the hotel and off via Auckland to San Francisco. Homeward stretch now!
Love Sue
Sunday, 12 October 2008
Bye to New Zealand
I just have a few minutes before I leave for the airport so I thought I'd say good bye to everyone from New Zealand.
I've spent the morning taking a quick tour of Christchurch on the old tram. I've seen the cathedral, some modern art (including a monument of a purple sperm which is located right outside the cathedral)
Nice place - and much busier than anywhere else I've been
Will update you properly when I get to Karens
Am so looking forward to San Fran and then home.
Love to all
Sue.xx
I've spent the morning taking a quick tour of Christchurch on the old tram. I've seen the cathedral, some modern art (including a monument of a purple sperm which is located right outside the cathedral)
Nice place - and much busier than anywhere else I've been
Will update you properly when I get to Karens
Am so looking forward to San Fran and then home.
Love to all
Sue.xx
Saturday, 11 October 2008
Last Touring Day - Mount Cook
4 hours drive from Queenstown to Mount Cook and stopped to take another 'team' photo with Lake Pukaki as a back drop. The colour of this lake is unbelievable. Sue asked us what we wanted to do on arrival in Mount Cook - walks? (short/long) but I decided to take the easy option - Scenic flight. It was a last minute decision again and we arrived at 1 and I had to be ready to go by 2 but it was the flight of my life!!
I was so lucky too as No flights had gone for the last 3 days because of poor weather conditions. We took off in a ski plane with a couple called Sarah and Gareth from London.
We flew over the river bed where we could see glaciers in the water and as we climbed it looked as if we were heading directly at the mountain face but the views were breath-taking, awesome, magnificent and any other words I can find!.
After 2 attempts the pilor landed the plane on the Tasman glacier which is the longest glacier in NZ. The snow was untouched except for the tracks of our plane landing. The still of the mountains surrounding us was eerie as you heard a single crack of the ice on a mountain in the distance. I'm sure I will never experience anything so wonderful again - we were surrounded by snow and ice and yet it wasn't cold and the reflection on the snow from the sun can easily burn you.
We stayed 15 - 20 minutes on the glacier and threw snowballs, made snow angels and took photos. We took off again and flew right up close to Mount Cook and then back to the airfield.
A perfect end to this magnificent trip.
Had a nice cuppa when I got back and then took a slow walk up to the Edmund HIlary Alpine centre where I watched a video of his climb of Everest which took me back to my time in Nepal and the Everest flight.
Nice stroll back to the YHA in the warm sunshine and then I sat on a bench outside the YHA and just took in all of these awesome view - snow capped mountains, hills and the quiet of the valley is lovely - all you can hear is the call of the birds and an odd car or 2 in the distance. This spot is idyllic.
Bye for now
Love Sue. xx
I was so lucky too as No flights had gone for the last 3 days because of poor weather conditions. We took off in a ski plane with a couple called Sarah and Gareth from London.
We flew over the river bed where we could see glaciers in the water and as we climbed it looked as if we were heading directly at the mountain face but the views were breath-taking, awesome, magnificent and any other words I can find!.
After 2 attempts the pilor landed the plane on the Tasman glacier which is the longest glacier in NZ. The snow was untouched except for the tracks of our plane landing. The still of the mountains surrounding us was eerie as you heard a single crack of the ice on a mountain in the distance. I'm sure I will never experience anything so wonderful again - we were surrounded by snow and ice and yet it wasn't cold and the reflection on the snow from the sun can easily burn you.
We stayed 15 - 20 minutes on the glacier and threw snowballs, made snow angels and took photos. We took off again and flew right up close to Mount Cook and then back to the airfield.
A perfect end to this magnificent trip.
Had a nice cuppa when I got back and then took a slow walk up to the Edmund HIlary Alpine centre where I watched a video of his climb of Everest which took me back to my time in Nepal and the Everest flight.
Nice stroll back to the YHA in the warm sunshine and then I sat on a bench outside the YHA and just took in all of these awesome view - snow capped mountains, hills and the quiet of the valley is lovely - all you can hear is the call of the birds and an odd car or 2 in the distance. This spot is idyllic.
Bye for now
Love Sue. xx
Queenstown - Lord of the Rings
I was going to have a relaxing day back in Queenstown but decided last minute to take the Lord of the Rings half day tour.
The 4 wheel drive picked me up at 8.15 and off we went towards Glenorchy where a number of scenes were shot. Our guide Nicky told us stories from a New Zealander perspective as we drove passed The Remarkables mountain range where the Dimdrill Dale scenes were filmed, you could also see Deer Park Heights which was used in the 2 towers film.
We passed Wakatipu lake and Nicky told us how the lake flooded in 1999 which meant filming would be halted. Peter Jackson paid for sandbags to be brought in and he and the crew helped in the clear up after the flood which really endeared them in the hearts of the locals.
Apparently around that time too she'd seen a house in Geary Lane which was situated high on a hill and took in the stunning views of The Remarkables. AFter some thought she and her husband put in an offer only to be told that it had been sold. She later discovered that Peter Jackson had bought it and still owns it today but it was the one place we couldn't go take a look at.
I learned that many of the Queenstown people became ORCS and people of the Rohan and the Hobbits used to frequent many of the hotels and pubs in the town. They used to also enjoy 'having fun' on the helicopters that took them to some of the remote locations - so much so that Sean Bean refused to travel in a helicopter and got up early on a shooting morning to travel by car to the nearest place and then walk the rest of the way to the shoot.
We saw the wetlands on which a number of the marsh scenes were based.
We saw the stables that provide the majority of the horses in the film and a number of the paddocks were used to store/house the film crew equipment and vehicles. Rumour has it that the stable owner was paid 3000 NZ dollars per day for the privelege.
We stopped at Dan's Paddock where Gandalf rode off to Isengard and we also drove throw the 'ORCS' wood and you could just imagine the dard figures coming out from the undergrowth.
The forest floor where Lothlorien was filmed was strewn with fallen beech leaves and Nicky told us that as this was a national park site that anything that was removed had to be replaced once the filming was complete. PJ wanted the golden brown beech leaves in his film so he arrived for a Chinese firm to make thousands of silk leaves which they blew into the forest. WHen filming was complete the leaves were hoovered up, the natural leaves separated from the silk and blown back onto the forest floor. Staggering!!
On the way back we stopped at the place where Frodo Sam and Smeagol lay on top of a hill and watched the Oliphants. There were other places along the Dart river for the Isengard and Amon Hen stuff.
I bought the locations guide book and realise there are already so many other places from the film that we've seen along this tour. I know I'll re-watch the film when I get back with a different viewpoint.
In the afternoon I went to the Kiwi Wildlife park and then took a gondola ride to the mountain top that overlooks Queenstown - magnificent views
All for now
Love Sue
xx
The 4 wheel drive picked me up at 8.15 and off we went towards Glenorchy where a number of scenes were shot. Our guide Nicky told us stories from a New Zealander perspective as we drove passed The Remarkables mountain range where the Dimdrill Dale scenes were filmed, you could also see Deer Park Heights which was used in the 2 towers film.
We passed Wakatipu lake and Nicky told us how the lake flooded in 1999 which meant filming would be halted. Peter Jackson paid for sandbags to be brought in and he and the crew helped in the clear up after the flood which really endeared them in the hearts of the locals.
Apparently around that time too she'd seen a house in Geary Lane which was situated high on a hill and took in the stunning views of The Remarkables. AFter some thought she and her husband put in an offer only to be told that it had been sold. She later discovered that Peter Jackson had bought it and still owns it today but it was the one place we couldn't go take a look at.
I learned that many of the Queenstown people became ORCS and people of the Rohan and the Hobbits used to frequent many of the hotels and pubs in the town. They used to also enjoy 'having fun' on the helicopters that took them to some of the remote locations - so much so that Sean Bean refused to travel in a helicopter and got up early on a shooting morning to travel by car to the nearest place and then walk the rest of the way to the shoot.
We saw the wetlands on which a number of the marsh scenes were based.
We saw the stables that provide the majority of the horses in the film and a number of the paddocks were used to store/house the film crew equipment and vehicles. Rumour has it that the stable owner was paid 3000 NZ dollars per day for the privelege.
We stopped at Dan's Paddock where Gandalf rode off to Isengard and we also drove throw the 'ORCS' wood and you could just imagine the dard figures coming out from the undergrowth.
The forest floor where Lothlorien was filmed was strewn with fallen beech leaves and Nicky told us that as this was a national park site that anything that was removed had to be replaced once the filming was complete. PJ wanted the golden brown beech leaves in his film so he arrived for a Chinese firm to make thousands of silk leaves which they blew into the forest. WHen filming was complete the leaves were hoovered up, the natural leaves separated from the silk and blown back onto the forest floor. Staggering!!
On the way back we stopped at the place where Frodo Sam and Smeagol lay on top of a hill and watched the Oliphants. There were other places along the Dart river for the Isengard and Amon Hen stuff.
I bought the locations guide book and realise there are already so many other places from the film that we've seen along this tour. I know I'll re-watch the film when I get back with a different viewpoint.
In the afternoon I went to the Kiwi Wildlife park and then took a gondola ride to the mountain top that overlooks Queenstown - magnificent views
All for now
Love Sue
xx
Wednesday, 8 October 2008
Wednesday/Thursday - Milford Sound
Trip is on even though there's been another fall of snow overnight. Our guide, Sue, can't drive us because the bus has to be 'snow chain' accreditted so we'll miss her.
The coach that picked us up is more luxurious but the driver has lots of interesting information but such a monotonous voice and I switched off after the 1st hour.
The views today have a whole different dimension with the fresh fallen snow on the mountains.
Stopped at the 'Kingston Flyer' for a coffee - it's an old railway station with a working steam train to take you for a ride up the track.
As well as sheep and cows in the fields, I've seen lots of deer today which the farmers apparently breed for German export - venison.
Further on into the journey the rain has turned to sleet and then to snow.
A quick stop for lunch at Te Anau which is on the side of the largest lake in New Zealand - no pics as it's pretty horrible weather.
On we go and the snow gets heavier. We get to a really long tunnel through the mountain which is only wide enough really for one vehicle and as we just about reach the end a camper van comes through so we get stuck for 10 minutes while each of us tries to manoeuvre out of the situation. Exit the tunnel and the roads are covered with snow and it's really thick on the hills. The snow ploughs are continually driving up and down clearing the roads. As we drop down into the valley the snow starts to clear. I've said it before - this weather is bizarre - 4 seasons in one day.
GOt to the boat at 4pm and after a safety briefing we sailed out of the harbour and into Milford Sound. It's still raining but still an awesome sight being a small vessel sailing through Fjords on both sides.
We stopped offshore of a small cove and people (not ME) went kayaking, or for a trip on the small boat and some MAD people even went swimming in the icy cold waters.
The crew cooked us lamb shank, herb mash and veg for dinner followed by peach crumble and icecream. It was delicious and you'll be impressed Yas - I ate the lot.
Had a few bicardis and played UNO and Cranium - such a laugh.
Early to bed though as we wanted to be up by 7.15 to see the wildlife and have a full english breakfast. Breakfast was great and I'm really impressed how the crew manage to cook for over 60 and they all piping hot.
Today we cruised out of the SOund - out to the Tasman sea - it's bitterly cold but our reward is to see seals and dolphins. The views today are so different to yesterday as the skies are blue and the sun is shining. This waterway is so magnificent today with the snow capped mountains, and fast flowing waterfalls.
I really can't give you the right picture of all I've seen - I just hope some of the photos will do that.
It's a long drive back to Queenstown but we have more stops on the way with equally spectacular views. We have lunch again at Te Anau but today is a completely different aspect on the lake.
Only 3 days left till I head for San Francisco.
Love Sue xxxxxxxxxxx
The coach that picked us up is more luxurious but the driver has lots of interesting information but such a monotonous voice and I switched off after the 1st hour.
The views today have a whole different dimension with the fresh fallen snow on the mountains.
Stopped at the 'Kingston Flyer' for a coffee - it's an old railway station with a working steam train to take you for a ride up the track.
As well as sheep and cows in the fields, I've seen lots of deer today which the farmers apparently breed for German export - venison.
Further on into the journey the rain has turned to sleet and then to snow.
A quick stop for lunch at Te Anau which is on the side of the largest lake in New Zealand - no pics as it's pretty horrible weather.
On we go and the snow gets heavier. We get to a really long tunnel through the mountain which is only wide enough really for one vehicle and as we just about reach the end a camper van comes through so we get stuck for 10 minutes while each of us tries to manoeuvre out of the situation. Exit the tunnel and the roads are covered with snow and it's really thick on the hills. The snow ploughs are continually driving up and down clearing the roads. As we drop down into the valley the snow starts to clear. I've said it before - this weather is bizarre - 4 seasons in one day.
GOt to the boat at 4pm and after a safety briefing we sailed out of the harbour and into Milford Sound. It's still raining but still an awesome sight being a small vessel sailing through Fjords on both sides.
We stopped offshore of a small cove and people (not ME) went kayaking, or for a trip on the small boat and some MAD people even went swimming in the icy cold waters.
The crew cooked us lamb shank, herb mash and veg for dinner followed by peach crumble and icecream. It was delicious and you'll be impressed Yas - I ate the lot.
Had a few bicardis and played UNO and Cranium - such a laugh.
Early to bed though as we wanted to be up by 7.15 to see the wildlife and have a full english breakfast. Breakfast was great and I'm really impressed how the crew manage to cook for over 60 and they all piping hot.
Today we cruised out of the SOund - out to the Tasman sea - it's bitterly cold but our reward is to see seals and dolphins. The views today are so different to yesterday as the skies are blue and the sun is shining. This waterway is so magnificent today with the snow capped mountains, and fast flowing waterfalls.
I really can't give you the right picture of all I've seen - I just hope some of the photos will do that.
It's a long drive back to Queenstown but we have more stops on the way with equally spectacular views. We have lunch again at Te Anau but today is a completely different aspect on the lake.
Only 3 days left till I head for San Francisco.
Love Sue xxxxxxxxxxx
Queenstown - Lazy day
Spent the morning wandering the shops and updating the blog as it was raining/snowing 1st thing.
After lunch I went to the city gardens for a stroll and did the Lake loop.
Nothing too exciting today and I'm reluctant to go shopping as I've no room in the rucksack to carry any more.
Wednesday we're supposed to be going on a Milford Sound cruise but the snow has closed the roads and we wont know until 8.15 in the morning as to whether it's on or not.
Sue. x
After lunch I went to the city gardens for a stroll and did the Lake loop.
Nothing too exciting today and I'm reluctant to go shopping as I've no room in the rucksack to carry any more.
Wednesday we're supposed to be going on a Milford Sound cruise but the snow has closed the roads and we wont know until 8.15 in the morning as to whether it's on or not.
Sue. x
Monday, 6 October 2008
Franz Josef to Queenstown
Wasn't looking forward to the long drive to Queenstown (6 - 7 hours) but ......
I managed to grab the seat up front with Sue which gets the best views and ha the most space - and the scenery on route wasn't disappointing!
Left at 8am and 1st stop was :ake Matheson to pick up to pick up Vicky and Catrina who had been for an early morning skydive. We took a short walk to see the lake which has Mount Cook and Mount Tasman as a backdrop. The morning was perfect and the reflection of the mountains on the still lake can't be described - we have been so lucky with the weather and the special moments a good day brings.
On a bit further and we stop at a couple of viewpoints high up which overlook the west coast and on a clear day you can see the Oz coast.
Lunch was at a place called Pleasant Flats - we made our sandwiches at a picnic area and ate them while sat on a bench looking at Mount Hooker and the Haast river - it's so tough being a tourist!!
Thunder Creek Falls was the next stop and again what words can I find to give you a picture of this 30 metre waterfall - fantastic - stunning - who can tell?
As we crossed a few bridges (which only have room for one vehicle) Sue slowed so we could see the beauty of the rivers flowing underneath.
Continued our journey following the shoreline of Lake Wanaka which is 3 largest lake in New Zealand. The colour of this lake is stunning but as we came over the brow of a hill my breath was taken away by an even more amazing view of Lake Hawea. The colours, the snow capped mountains, the green hills and white sand - just picture postcard stuff.
We stopped at the small town of Wanaka for coffee and to stretch our legs. The SOuth Island is nice because it's so spread out between townships, there are very few vehicles on the roads and just lots of small communities which are still relatively untouched by tourism.
From Wanaka we drove through the Kanawa Gorge for several miles and it reminded me of 'Jason and the Argonauts' movie set - Deep canyons with rocky winding sides and the blue river flowing through.
I know I try and take photos which will give you a flavour of what I see but sometimes you can miss the moment of what you're looking at.
Someone once told Sue that:-
You should - Take a picture with your eyes
Process it in your mind
Frame it in your heart
and hang it in the gallery of your soul
Anyway finally arrived at Queenstown and we have a unit all to ourselves which it so great. More privacy and don't have to share the kitchen shower TV and lounge with anyone else except the group.
We have it for 4 nights too so no unpacking and packing again for a while - I know the simple pleasures are the best.
Went to the Pig and WHistle last night and had lamb hotpot and a few bicardis as we didn't have to get up early this morning. Nice just to relax.
We were going to go on the gondolas up the mountain today but it snowed overnight so may have to wait a day or so.
Again - so bizarre to have sunshine yesterday and snow and rain today.
Ovcr and out for now
Love Sue.xxxx
I managed to grab the seat up front with Sue which gets the best views and ha the most space - and the scenery on route wasn't disappointing!
Left at 8am and 1st stop was :ake Matheson to pick up to pick up Vicky and Catrina who had been for an early morning skydive. We took a short walk to see the lake which has Mount Cook and Mount Tasman as a backdrop. The morning was perfect and the reflection of the mountains on the still lake can't be described - we have been so lucky with the weather and the special moments a good day brings.
On a bit further and we stop at a couple of viewpoints high up which overlook the west coast and on a clear day you can see the Oz coast.
Lunch was at a place called Pleasant Flats - we made our sandwiches at a picnic area and ate them while sat on a bench looking at Mount Hooker and the Haast river - it's so tough being a tourist!!
Thunder Creek Falls was the next stop and again what words can I find to give you a picture of this 30 metre waterfall - fantastic - stunning - who can tell?
As we crossed a few bridges (which only have room for one vehicle) Sue slowed so we could see the beauty of the rivers flowing underneath.
Continued our journey following the shoreline of Lake Wanaka which is 3 largest lake in New Zealand. The colour of this lake is stunning but as we came over the brow of a hill my breath was taken away by an even more amazing view of Lake Hawea. The colours, the snow capped mountains, the green hills and white sand - just picture postcard stuff.
We stopped at the small town of Wanaka for coffee and to stretch our legs. The SOuth Island is nice because it's so spread out between townships, there are very few vehicles on the roads and just lots of small communities which are still relatively untouched by tourism.
From Wanaka we drove through the Kanawa Gorge for several miles and it reminded me of 'Jason and the Argonauts' movie set - Deep canyons with rocky winding sides and the blue river flowing through.
I know I try and take photos which will give you a flavour of what I see but sometimes you can miss the moment of what you're looking at.
Someone once told Sue that:-
You should - Take a picture with your eyes
Process it in your mind
Frame it in your heart
and hang it in the gallery of your soul
Anyway finally arrived at Queenstown and we have a unit all to ourselves which it so great. More privacy and don't have to share the kitchen shower TV and lounge with anyone else except the group.
We have it for 4 nights too so no unpacking and packing again for a while - I know the simple pleasures are the best.
Went to the Pig and WHistle last night and had lamb hotpot and a few bicardis as we didn't have to get up early this morning. Nice just to relax.
We were going to go on the gondolas up the mountain today but it snowed overnight so may have to wait a day or so.
Again - so bizarre to have sunshine yesterday and snow and rain today.
Ovcr and out for now
Love Sue.xxxx
Sunday, 5 October 2008
Sunday - Franz Josef
Today had a nice lie in which was good preparation for a half day hike on the Franz Josef Glacier.
Went for our briefing at 12.15 which gave everyone the opportunity to duck out. Then on to get our boots fitted and crampons. It was at this point that I thought 'What am I doing?' The boots were soggy from the previous climbers as it had been raining the day before and you also have to cross rivers/streams which can come up to ankle/knee high.!
When I tried to change them for may be a drier pair - I soon discovered that they were all the same. Next collected our crampons, waterproof jackets/trousers and hat and gloves if so desired.
Off we went in the bus to the lower valley where we could see the glacier in the distance - another awesome sight.
We walked through the forest, then crossed a few rivers where it was low and rocks were our path and our feet got even more wet until we reached the base of the glacier.
Our guide took us up steps cut into the ice and we only climbed to 340 metres which was enought as when we stood still my feet got really cold.
Had a quick snack and took some photos and then started the descent.
It took about 3 hours in totalbut I'm glad I did it.
My legs and ankles ached a bit as walking on crampons is an art in itself and climbing steps that are knee high was pretty challenging.
Jumped into a hot spa pool when we got back which was really soothing so a good end to the day
Love Sue.xx
Went for our briefing at 12.15 which gave everyone the opportunity to duck out. Then on to get our boots fitted and crampons. It was at this point that I thought 'What am I doing?' The boots were soggy from the previous climbers as it had been raining the day before and you also have to cross rivers/streams which can come up to ankle/knee high.!
When I tried to change them for may be a drier pair - I soon discovered that they were all the same. Next collected our crampons, waterproof jackets/trousers and hat and gloves if so desired.
Off we went in the bus to the lower valley where we could see the glacier in the distance - another awesome sight.
We walked through the forest, then crossed a few rivers where it was low and rocks were our path and our feet got even more wet until we reached the base of the glacier.
Our guide took us up steps cut into the ice and we only climbed to 340 metres which was enought as when we stood still my feet got really cold.
Had a quick snack and took some photos and then started the descent.
It took about 3 hours in totalbut I'm glad I did it.
My legs and ankles ached a bit as walking on crampons is an art in itself and climbing steps that are knee high was pretty challenging.
Jumped into a hot spa pool when we got back which was really soothing so a good end to the day
Love Sue.xx
Saturday, 4 October 2008
Saturday - wash out day
Today ther are strong winds and pouring rain so not much to do this morning except sit around the beach house. A real pain in the bum unless you want to walk in it and have wet clothes all day as we move on again later today.
After lunch we went to see the Pancake rocks and blow holes which were really a different aspect. Got a bit wet but worth it.
Then Sue drove us to a place called Hokitika where there was a Jade factory - Jade is called 'Greenstone' by the Maori's here. Bought a simple little pie
Had tea at a place called Stumpies - I asked for a light meal and got a huge basket fulls of chips, wedges, chicken, pork, fish samosa's and more. I think it would have been enough for at least 4 people.
On to Frans Joseph where there are lots of glaciers so hopefully a more interesting blog tomorrow.
Love to all
Sue.xxx
After lunch we went to see the Pancake rocks and blow holes which were really a different aspect. Got a bit wet but worth it.
Then Sue drove us to a place called Hokitika where there was a Jade factory - Jade is called 'Greenstone' by the Maori's here. Bought a simple little pie
Had tea at a place called Stumpies - I asked for a light meal and got a huge basket fulls of chips, wedges, chicken, pork, fish samosa's and more. I think it would have been enough for at least 4 people.
On to Frans Joseph where there are lots of glaciers so hopefully a more interesting blog tomorrow.
Love to all
Sue.xxx
Christchurch to Punakaki
Although the drives are long I never tire of seeing the beautiful landscapes. The Southern Alps are continually in view at the moment with snow peaks and intermittent lakes in the vallies of the mountains which were created by the glacial changes.
We stopped at a little cafe in a small town which sold amazing homemade pies, quiches, breakfast rolls and muffins.
As we drive up through the mountain passes the bus struggles a little and the strong winds are really pushing the side of the bus. Sue stopped to take a group photo of us all with the Alps as a backdrop so that will be on the DVD we're putting together as a souvenir for us all to take home.
Drove on a bit further and came to one of the Lord of the Rings locations where a number of fight scenes were filmed - FANTASTIC - Sue had brought some toy swords with her so we could all re-enact the movie.
On to Arthurs Pass where we climbed to the Devil's Punch Bowl waterfall. Had lunch there too and were joined by 5 or 6 Kea birds who are really cheeky and try and take the food from your hands. There's a surprise around every corner!!
Eventually got to Punakaki and went straight to do some bone carving. We arrived at 4.30 and left around 8pm but I did make a really nice pendant of a Maori fish hook which represents 'Strength and determination, and bring peace, prosperity and good health. It also provides a safe journey over water'
I couldn't believe how much sanding we had to do to make the piece look smooth and professional.
We were late back to the hostel which is on the beach but wouldn't get to see it until the next day.
We stopped at a little cafe in a small town which sold amazing homemade pies, quiches, breakfast rolls and muffins.
As we drive up through the mountain passes the bus struggles a little and the strong winds are really pushing the side of the bus. Sue stopped to take a group photo of us all with the Alps as a backdrop so that will be on the DVD we're putting together as a souvenir for us all to take home.
Drove on a bit further and came to one of the Lord of the Rings locations where a number of fight scenes were filmed - FANTASTIC - Sue had brought some toy swords with her so we could all re-enact the movie.
On to Arthurs Pass where we climbed to the Devil's Punch Bowl waterfall. Had lunch there too and were joined by 5 or 6 Kea birds who are really cheeky and try and take the food from your hands. There's a surprise around every corner!!
Eventually got to Punakaki and went straight to do some bone carving. We arrived at 4.30 and left around 8pm but I did make a really nice pendant of a Maori fish hook which represents 'Strength and determination, and bring peace, prosperity and good health. It also provides a safe journey over water'
I couldn't believe how much sanding we had to do to make the piece look smooth and professional.
We were late back to the hostel which is on the beach but wouldn't get to see it until the next day.
Friday, 3 October 2008
Kaikoura to Christchurch
Leisurely morning in Kaikoura and took a walk along the shore by the YHA and then went for a 2 hour walk with Sue and Greg. Steep inclines but very bracing - met a load of calves in a field and one even licked my hand.
Set off for Christchurch and again beautiful views on route - lots of little lambs galloping in the fields
Arrived in Christchurch around 4 and by the time we unloaded the chariot and sorted out my accommodation for when I come back to Christchurch before I fly to San Fran, it was gone 5 so I went with Sue to do the food shopping. It was 6.30 by the time we got back and then out to a Thai restaurant for dinner.
Up at 7 in the morning so I actually never got to see Christchurch.
Where did the day go?
Sue x
Set off for Christchurch and again beautiful views on route - lots of little lambs galloping in the fields
Arrived in Christchurch around 4 and by the time we unloaded the chariot and sorted out my accommodation for when I come back to Christchurch before I fly to San Fran, it was gone 5 so I went with Sue to do the food shopping. It was 6.30 by the time we got back and then out to a Thai restaurant for dinner.
Up at 7 in the morning so I actually never got to see Christchurch.
Where did the day go?
Sue x
Tuesday, 30 September 2008
Nelson to Kaikoura
I should be used to these early morning starts but having to be up, eat breakfast and load the luggage on the bus by 7.30 still isn't easy.
Off to Kaikoura today and the view on route are so diverse. On the right of the bus are miles and miles of rolling green hills with lots of sheep cattle and horses, on the left is the azure blue sea with black sand as far as the eye can see and directly in front of us is a range of snow-capped mountains. Can't even see any other vehicle on the road - the south island is much less populated than the north island.
Stopped at the side of the road to look at a seal colony - good to watch them play and spar with each other. It's difficult to get photos as they blend into the rocks so well.
Arrived in Kaikoura and decided last minute to go whale watching, so quick changed into something warm before SUe dropped us off and we caught the luxury coach to the catamaran. It was a bigh improvement on the whale watching boat from OZ - comfy leather seats and such a smooth ride out to sea. Within 5 minutes the captain stopped the engines as there was a sperm whale in sight. So we managed to take our photos before he said - 'Get your cameras ready as he's about to dive!' ANd sure enought he did and we got that pic of his tale.. Then we were told that the winds were picking up and they had to cut the trip short. I wasn't disappointed though as we'd seen the whale and they gave us an 80% refund - RESULT!!
Then to add to the excitement of the day we went back to the YHA which I forgot to mention sits right in view of the snow capped mountains - great view from the dining room. Anyway - back to the plot -a few of us were sitting having a cuppa and chat when a woman from the local paper came in and asked if 2 of us wouldm't mind posing for a phote (but we had to be smart) I've felt like a rag for the last 6 months so was surprised she asked me. So Kat and I posed , sitting on the rocks pretending to eat crayfish with a knife and fork. We'll see if it appears in the Marlborough Express/Kaikoura Star tomorrow but I won't hold my breath.
Oh such a hectic life!!
Watch this space
Love Sue.xxx
Off to Kaikoura today and the view on route are so diverse. On the right of the bus are miles and miles of rolling green hills with lots of sheep cattle and horses, on the left is the azure blue sea with black sand as far as the eye can see and directly in front of us is a range of snow-capped mountains. Can't even see any other vehicle on the road - the south island is much less populated than the north island.
Stopped at the side of the road to look at a seal colony - good to watch them play and spar with each other. It's difficult to get photos as they blend into the rocks so well.
Arrived in Kaikoura and decided last minute to go whale watching, so quick changed into something warm before SUe dropped us off and we caught the luxury coach to the catamaran. It was a bigh improvement on the whale watching boat from OZ - comfy leather seats and such a smooth ride out to sea. Within 5 minutes the captain stopped the engines as there was a sperm whale in sight. So we managed to take our photos before he said - 'Get your cameras ready as he's about to dive!' ANd sure enought he did and we got that pic of his tale.. Then we were told that the winds were picking up and they had to cut the trip short. I wasn't disappointed though as we'd seen the whale and they gave us an 80% refund - RESULT!!
Then to add to the excitement of the day we went back to the YHA which I forgot to mention sits right in view of the snow capped mountains - great view from the dining room. Anyway - back to the plot -a few of us were sitting having a cuppa and chat when a woman from the local paper came in and asked if 2 of us wouldm't mind posing for a phote (but we had to be smart) I've felt like a rag for the last 6 months so was surprised she asked me. So Kat and I posed , sitting on the rocks pretending to eat crayfish with a knife and fork. We'll see if it appears in the Marlborough Express/Kaikoura Star tomorrow but I won't hold my breath.
Oh such a hectic life!!
Watch this space
Love Sue.xxx
Monday, 29 September 2008
Nelson - Tuesday
Most of the group wanted to do the Abel Tasman National Park today which covers a large area of the coastline and coastal walks. We were't sure what the weather would be like today as yesterday it was pouring so Sue said she would check when she went swimming at 6am on Tuesday. Ao at 7am Sue popped her head around the door to say that it was a beautiful day and those who wanted to catch the 9.30 sea shuttle needed to be ready by 7.30. I'd had enought of rushing around so decided to have a lie in and give it a miss and explore Nelson instead and I'm glad I did.
After a leisurely breakfast I wandered over to the Cathedral which is just across the road from the backpackers. It's a beautiful building and the gentleman who welcomed me at the door told me he was from Liverpool and had emigrated 3 years ago as his wife was from New Zealand and wanted to be nearer her children. He was well into his 70's so fair play to him.
Then I meandered along the road to the jewellers - Jens Hansen who designed THE ring for Lords of the Rings. They had the original design ring in the shop and the sales lady was happy to talk about the rings there and about Jens. He apparently died before the film was released so he had no idea how famous his design would become. She showed me some other rings that had been made in relation to the design and there was one with an engraving 'Land of the mountains' - No idea why but I just bought it!!
Continued my walk through Nelson to the Founders Heritage Park which is a bit like the Welsh Folk museum with old style shops, schools, church etc. I enjoyed looking at all the old scenes and stopped for coffee where the ducks just came and hassled me for some of my cookie. No fear!
Then I went to the Myazu gardens which were in the style of a japanese garden - kind of restful to walk through.
Finally I walked back along the sea front back to the city and the backpackers hostel where I had a spot of lunch and all this before 2.30.
Sat on the balcony of the backpackers overlooking the Cathedral gardens - it is a lovely spot and the sunshine was so warm, such a contrast to the previous day.
Went to pick my ring up from the jewellers as it had to be re-sized and the lady let me take photographs of the 'Lord of the RIngs' rings which were on display.
Did a little more retail therapy and bought a top, so I'll have to throw something out to be able to fit it into my rucksack. Most of my clothes now are so well worn and I am really bored with them!
I've really had a great day to myself in Nelson and although I thought it was going to be relaxing my little legs are telling me that they've walk some distance today.
Love to all
Sue. xx
After a leisurely breakfast I wandered over to the Cathedral which is just across the road from the backpackers. It's a beautiful building and the gentleman who welcomed me at the door told me he was from Liverpool and had emigrated 3 years ago as his wife was from New Zealand and wanted to be nearer her children. He was well into his 70's so fair play to him.
Then I meandered along the road to the jewellers - Jens Hansen who designed THE ring for Lords of the Rings. They had the original design ring in the shop and the sales lady was happy to talk about the rings there and about Jens. He apparently died before the film was released so he had no idea how famous his design would become. She showed me some other rings that had been made in relation to the design and there was one with an engraving 'Land of the mountains' - No idea why but I just bought it!!
Continued my walk through Nelson to the Founders Heritage Park which is a bit like the Welsh Folk museum with old style shops, schools, church etc. I enjoyed looking at all the old scenes and stopped for coffee where the ducks just came and hassled me for some of my cookie. No fear!
Then I went to the Myazu gardens which were in the style of a japanese garden - kind of restful to walk through.
Finally I walked back along the sea front back to the city and the backpackers hostel where I had a spot of lunch and all this before 2.30.
Sat on the balcony of the backpackers overlooking the Cathedral gardens - it is a lovely spot and the sunshine was so warm, such a contrast to the previous day.
Went to pick my ring up from the jewellers as it had to be re-sized and the lady let me take photographs of the 'Lord of the RIngs' rings which were on display.
Did a little more retail therapy and bought a top, so I'll have to throw something out to be able to fit it into my rucksack. Most of my clothes now are so well worn and I am really bored with them!
I've really had a great day to myself in Nelson and although I thought it was going to be relaxing my little legs are telling me that they've walk some distance today.
Love to all
Sue. xx
Sunday, 28 September 2008
Ferry to Picton and South Island
Up at 6 to catch the Ferry and the YHA supplied us with Bagels, cream cheese and jam to take with us - usually we have to provide our own breakfast.
Arrived at the ferry terminal and caught the 8.25 Interisland ferry which is simply ginormous. It was a 3 and a half hour crossing and the weather overcast but they had a cinema on board showing Mama Mia which would while away the hours.
I did venture up on to the top deck but the wind was so strong I only just managed to open the door and poke my head outside where loads of kids were having great fun trying to battle the wind. I'm sure they must lose a few passengers along the way.
Arrived around lunchtime again and stopped at a local bakery where they make their own pies. I had chicken and camembert while some of the others had steak and mushroom, morroccan lamb, mince and cheese,chicken curry - deeelicious!
Then the drive to Nelson where we'll stay for 2 nights at 'Accents in the Park' backpackers.
1st stop on route was the chocolate factory where we sampled their goods and restrained ourselves from buying --- uuuummmmmm!
2nd stop was Blenheim, Marlborough - Olive oil tasting, prenzel liqueur tasting and wine tasting - I could put on several pounds before we reach our destination.
Finally arrive around 2 and the backpackers place is great - lovely linen, comfortable bunks, old fashioned juke box, massive kitchen and lovely owners.
It's still raining but went out for a wander to check out Nelson. It's a nice shopping area but too wet to fully appreciate what's here - will see tomorrow hopefully.
Thanks again for all your comments - I know a few of you have said you'll miss my updates but when I get back you'll not want to read my comings and goings back home.
Anyway - over and out for today - we'll see what tomorrow brings
Ceri and Mark - Hope you're having a great time in Italy - Ken and I wet there way back when but it was a great place to visit.
Mam - Hope you're still doing well - not long now and you'll get a great big hug!
Love you
Sue.xxxxxxxxxxx
Arrived at the ferry terminal and caught the 8.25 Interisland ferry which is simply ginormous. It was a 3 and a half hour crossing and the weather overcast but they had a cinema on board showing Mama Mia which would while away the hours.
I did venture up on to the top deck but the wind was so strong I only just managed to open the door and poke my head outside where loads of kids were having great fun trying to battle the wind. I'm sure they must lose a few passengers along the way.
Arrived around lunchtime again and stopped at a local bakery where they make their own pies. I had chicken and camembert while some of the others had steak and mushroom, morroccan lamb, mince and cheese,chicken curry - deeelicious!
Then the drive to Nelson where we'll stay for 2 nights at 'Accents in the Park' backpackers.
1st stop on route was the chocolate factory where we sampled their goods and restrained ourselves from buying --- uuuummmmmm!
2nd stop was Blenheim, Marlborough - Olive oil tasting, prenzel liqueur tasting and wine tasting - I could put on several pounds before we reach our destination.
Finally arrive around 2 and the backpackers place is great - lovely linen, comfortable bunks, old fashioned juke box, massive kitchen and lovely owners.
It's still raining but went out for a wander to check out Nelson. It's a nice shopping area but too wet to fully appreciate what's here - will see tomorrow hopefully.
Thanks again for all your comments - I know a few of you have said you'll miss my updates but when I get back you'll not want to read my comings and goings back home.
Anyway - over and out for today - we'll see what tomorrow brings
Ceri and Mark - Hope you're having a great time in Italy - Ken and I wet there way back when but it was a great place to visit.
Mam - Hope you're still doing well - not long now and you'll get a great big hug!
Love you
Sue.xxxxxxxxxxx
Wellington
Arrived in Wellington at lunchtime, grabbed a quick bite and then off to explore. Caught the cable car with Ali and Kat to the Botanic gardens which is 25 hectares in size (BIG. As I strolled down to the bottom of the gardens, I heard a band playing so went over for a look and listen. From a distance they looked a bit like the blues brothers and were playing Elvis and Tom Jones and lots of other stuff I recognised. Climbed back up the hill to the herb garden then down again to the rose garden (which was not in bloom!!). There was a trio of 'mature' guys sat on a park bench and playing brass instruments and swing - it was lovely to listen to.
Back to the top - the signs pointed me in the direction of 'the easy route back to the cable car' - I don't know whose definition that was as it was steep most of the wa. I had a browse in the cable car museum before catching the cable car back down.
As I walked along the waterfront I bumped into Jenny Lisa and Claudia and we all went to the Te Papa museum which is massive. As time was getting short we just went to see the Maori exhibition and had coffee overlooking the sea before going back to the YHA where we're staying. The YHA is dead opposite the fire station so we were all tempted to set off the alarms and see the firemen strut their stuff.
Out for an Indian in the evening but not a late night as we have to catch an eary Ferry on Monday to take us to the South Island. I can't believe we've done the North Island already.
Hey HO
Love Sue
Back to the top - the signs pointed me in the direction of 'the easy route back to the cable car' - I don't know whose definition that was as it was steep most of the wa. I had a browse in the cable car museum before catching the cable car back down.
As I walked along the waterfront I bumped into Jenny Lisa and Claudia and we all went to the Te Papa museum which is massive. As time was getting short we just went to see the Maori exhibition and had coffee overlooking the sea before going back to the YHA where we're staying. The YHA is dead opposite the fire station so we were all tempted to set off the alarms and see the firemen strut their stuff.
Out for an Indian in the evening but not a late night as we have to catch an eary Ferry on Monday to take us to the South Island. I can't believe we've done the North Island already.
Hey HO
Love Sue
Mount Ruapehu - Mount Doom
After lunch Jenny, Lisa, Claudia and decided to take a walk to see Taranaki Falls even thought the weather wasn't the best. Ali had told us that it was a 1 hour round trip but it turned out to be moe like 2 hours. Weather was just overcast when we started out but by the time we were coming back it was raining and so got soaked. The falls were worth it though.
In the evening 'we' the Kea team cooked chicken teryaki followed by carrot cake which Sue made.
It's been great on the mountains even though the weather wasn't the best.
The cloks went forward today and we were up at 6.30 ready to leave for Wellington. I was a really cold morning with clear blue skies which gave us a perfect view of Mount Ruapehu - locally called Mount Doom as it's where Lord of the RIngs was filmed. Apparently the cost to film in a National Park was phenomenal as they have to do an impact assessment on damage to the environment before any permission is given.
On route we stopped for coffee at a place called Bulls - described as 'a plae like no udder' Lots of the shops have reference to Bulls in their title or description.
The cafe was called Bulls eye cafe, the designer shop was called Labulls. Information centre - Inform a Bull. Toilets - relievabull. Estate agent - No bull.etc etc.
As we drove along the coast near to Wellington we could look across the bay and see the mountains of South Island. Amazing yet again
In the evening 'we' the Kea team cooked chicken teryaki followed by carrot cake which Sue made.
It's been great on the mountains even though the weather wasn't the best.
The cloks went forward today and we were up at 6.30 ready to leave for Wellington. I was a really cold morning with clear blue skies which gave us a perfect view of Mount Ruapehu - locally called Mount Doom as it's where Lord of the RIngs was filmed. Apparently the cost to film in a National Park was phenomenal as they have to do an impact assessment on damage to the environment before any permission is given.
On route we stopped for coffee at a place called Bulls - described as 'a plae like no udder' Lots of the shops have reference to Bulls in their title or description.
The cafe was called Bulls eye cafe, the designer shop was called Labulls. Information centre - Inform a Bull. Toilets - relievabull. Estate agent - No bull.etc etc.
As we drove along the coast near to Wellington we could look across the bay and see the mountains of South Island. Amazing yet again
Friday, 26 September 2008
Friday/Saturday - Taupo and the mountains
When we arrived in Taupo Sue took us to the Hukka Falls which was very different to the other falls we've seen. This is a long stretch of rapids and then the water drops in the falls. There was a boat approaching from the falls end which reminded me of 'Maid of the Mist' in Niagara falls.
5 of us then decided to take the 2 hour walk from the falls along the river and back into Taupo. Half way along there was thermal springs so we took our shoes and socks off and went for a paddle in the 'boiling' hot water. Ali and Neil had brought their swimwear and were able to sit under the small water falls of steaming water.
It was a long walk back into Taupo but as we came around the corner the view was breathtaking - Taupo lake is massive - it's as wide and long as the eye can see and it's set with a backdrop of snowcapped mountains - simply awesome (again)
After an icecream, Jenny and I caught a taxi to Debretts spa where we bathed in the hot mineral pools and then had a full body massage.
Sue picked us up at 4.15 and then it was a long drive to the ski lodge at Whakapapa (fackapapa) where we're staying for 2 nights. It's in the mountains and the drop in temperature significant - it's bizarre this afternoon we were bathing in the sun and now it's wrapping up warm with hats and gloves to keep warm. Saying that thought the lodge is well heated and well equipped for all the skiing and snowboarding if it takes your fancy.
The 'Takahe' team cooked tea tonight - they served up salad nicoise followed by spaghettis bolognese. We were well impressed as the kitchen here is tiny and is used by all those staying here - for once we were in the kitchen before the Japapese!.
Today is Saturday and we were up early ready to catch the shuttle bus to the mountain ski place. I put on as many layers as I could and the New Zealand beanie hat that I bought yesterday and we all huddled into the mini bus. I had thought about taking the beginners skiing lesson but by the time I hired the clothing and paid for the shuttle bus and the lesson it was well over 100 pound so we decided to take the scenic pass and just take a look at the mountains from the top. Anyway we arrived there and it was 1 degrees up there so blooming cold, bought some extra gloves as my driving gloves really didn't do the job and then discovered that the Scenic lift wasn't running due to weather conditions.
It was still spectacular to see the mountains that close but the weather started to close in so Jenny and I consoled ourselves with a cup of hot chocolate and then caught the shuttle back to the lodge. Hence this is why you have an early update and more photos.
We'll see if the weather lifts this afternoon and will go for a walk if it does.
All for now
Sue.xxx
5 of us then decided to take the 2 hour walk from the falls along the river and back into Taupo. Half way along there was thermal springs so we took our shoes and socks off and went for a paddle in the 'boiling' hot water. Ali and Neil had brought their swimwear and were able to sit under the small water falls of steaming water.
It was a long walk back into Taupo but as we came around the corner the view was breathtaking - Taupo lake is massive - it's as wide and long as the eye can see and it's set with a backdrop of snowcapped mountains - simply awesome (again)
After an icecream, Jenny and I caught a taxi to Debretts spa where we bathed in the hot mineral pools and then had a full body massage.
Sue picked us up at 4.15 and then it was a long drive to the ski lodge at Whakapapa (fackapapa) where we're staying for 2 nights. It's in the mountains and the drop in temperature significant - it's bizarre this afternoon we were bathing in the sun and now it's wrapping up warm with hats and gloves to keep warm. Saying that thought the lodge is well heated and well equipped for all the skiing and snowboarding if it takes your fancy.
The 'Takahe' team cooked tea tonight - they served up salad nicoise followed by spaghettis bolognese. We were well impressed as the kitchen here is tiny and is used by all those staying here - for once we were in the kitchen before the Japapese!.
Today is Saturday and we were up early ready to catch the shuttle bus to the mountain ski place. I put on as many layers as I could and the New Zealand beanie hat that I bought yesterday and we all huddled into the mini bus. I had thought about taking the beginners skiing lesson but by the time I hired the clothing and paid for the shuttle bus and the lesson it was well over 100 pound so we decided to take the scenic pass and just take a look at the mountains from the top. Anyway we arrived there and it was 1 degrees up there so blooming cold, bought some extra gloves as my driving gloves really didn't do the job and then discovered that the Scenic lift wasn't running due to weather conditions.
It was still spectacular to see the mountains that close but the weather started to close in so Jenny and I consoled ourselves with a cup of hot chocolate and then caught the shuttle back to the lodge. Hence this is why you have an early update and more photos.
We'll see if the weather lifts this afternoon and will go for a walk if it does.
All for now
Sue.xxx
Friday - Te Puia
Today we leave Rotorua but stopped at Te Puia on our way. It's a Maori centre with a kiwi nocturnal house, mud ools and 2 geysers - again the sulphur smell is strong. It was a struggle to see the kiwis in the nocturnal house, so we walked on to the geysers. We were there about 10 - 15 minutes thinking this is just a load of rocks blowing off lots of steam, when I saw a small eruption of water. I called to the others to come see and then the geyser started to gather momentum. It's called the plume of feathers and it certainly lived up to it's name. The water grew higher and higher - an awesome sight.
There were paths you could sit on but not for long as they were really very hot.
Saw a replica of a Maori village and boat.
The mud pools just sit there bubbling away and this natural phenomenon is amazing that mud is at boiling point
A good start to the day on route to Taupo.
More tomorrow hopefully
Love Sue. x
There were paths you could sit on but not for long as they were really very hot.
Saw a replica of a Maori village and boat.
The mud pools just sit there bubbling away and this natural phenomenon is amazing that mud is at boiling point
A good start to the day on route to Taupo.
More tomorrow hopefully
Love Sue. x
Thursday, 25 September 2008
Thursday - Rotorua
Had a lie in today as we didn't leave the backpackers until 9am.
Rotorua is not what I expected - I thought there would be lots of Moari traditional things and history but it seemed to be a non descript town.
I walked with 3 of the girls to the Government gardens and then along the lake where there were lots of birds including black swans. The gardens were nicer than the town and had wood carvings hot springs dotted here and there and the information centre near the gardens was a really impressive building. In rotorua you can smell the sulphur as you drive in - pretty powerful.
We're staying in Trekkers - backpackers and I must admit it really clean , well-equipped and comfortable - though saying that I had a bad nights sleep as some people were really noisy last night.
I popped into the Polynesian baths, which has lots and lots of mineral pools where you can go and laze for 2 or 3 hours but it was getting late so I didn't feel I had enough time to indulge. I did spend some time in their shop though as every product had a tester so I smelled quite nice by the time I left.
In the evening we went to the Mitai which is a cultural village and the locals told us about their traditions, demonstrated some of their skills with weapons, sang and performed the Hakka. They were scantily clad uin loin cloths and tattooed bodies. We had a 'hangie' which is food cooked on hot stones.. They lay the stones on a bed of firewood, light the wood - place the food in 'containers' and lay them on top of the stones, cover them with soil and then cook them for 3 and half hours. Apparently whether they cook for 30 or 3000 - the cooking time is the same.
There was lamb and chicken, potatoes (baked, scallops and sweet)with salads I'd never tasted before followed by chocolate cake, trifle and fresh fruit salad. The food was superb and you could go back for as much as you could eat.
Afterwards we walked through the bush and saw the gloworms, listened to stories of their ancestors and watch the pools bubbling up through the sand.
A real good and entertaining time and a nice end to the day
Rotorua is not what I expected - I thought there would be lots of Moari traditional things and history but it seemed to be a non descript town.
I walked with 3 of the girls to the Government gardens and then along the lake where there were lots of birds including black swans. The gardens were nicer than the town and had wood carvings hot springs dotted here and there and the information centre near the gardens was a really impressive building. In rotorua you can smell the sulphur as you drive in - pretty powerful.
We're staying in Trekkers - backpackers and I must admit it really clean , well-equipped and comfortable - though saying that I had a bad nights sleep as some people were really noisy last night.
I popped into the Polynesian baths, which has lots and lots of mineral pools where you can go and laze for 2 or 3 hours but it was getting late so I didn't feel I had enough time to indulge. I did spend some time in their shop though as every product had a tester so I smelled quite nice by the time I left.
In the evening we went to the Mitai which is a cultural village and the locals told us about their traditions, demonstrated some of their skills with weapons, sang and performed the Hakka. They were scantily clad uin loin cloths and tattooed bodies. We had a 'hangie' which is food cooked on hot stones.. They lay the stones on a bed of firewood, light the wood - place the food in 'containers' and lay them on top of the stones, cover them with soil and then cook them for 3 and half hours. Apparently whether they cook for 30 or 3000 - the cooking time is the same.
There was lamb and chicken, potatoes (baked, scallops and sweet)with salads I'd never tasted before followed by chocolate cake, trifle and fresh fruit salad. The food was superb and you could go back for as much as you could eat.
Afterwards we walked through the bush and saw the gloworms, listened to stories of their ancestors and watch the pools bubbling up through the sand.
A real good and entertaining time and a nice end to the day
Wednesday, 24 September 2008
Wednesday - Waitomo
Set off for Waitomo and half an hour into the journey Sue says 'Would you like to see some AUstrian art and take a toilet break' Well in Kawakawa the toilets are quite unique. An AUstrian artist named Junderwasser decided to create an unusual styled toilet - pics will eventually be on the skydrive. It's a bit like a coffee place in Austria that Ceri and I stopped at a couple of years ago.
We also passed a Maori cemetary which is set on a hillside - there is a hierarchy in where you're buried. If you're a high achiever it's at the top of the hill if not....
At night I understand it's an incredible sight too as there are solar lights that shine on the hill in the evening.
Everywhere on route is so green - there are rolling hills for miles and miles with plenty of cattle and sheep. The pink blossom that lines the roads remind me of back home in England.
When we arrived at the backpackers in Waitomo, we dumped our stuff and then set of for the Gloworm caves. Another unusual sight in the caves of thousands of gloworms hanging from the ceiling which looked just like fairy lights. Sorry - no pics as you're not allowed to take any photos in the caves.
That's all for today folks - more tomorrow
Love Sue.
xx
We also passed a Maori cemetary which is set on a hillside - there is a hierarchy in where you're buried. If you're a high achiever it's at the top of the hill if not....
At night I understand it's an incredible sight too as there are solar lights that shine on the hill in the evening.
Everywhere on route is so green - there are rolling hills for miles and miles with plenty of cattle and sheep. The pink blossom that lines the roads remind me of back home in England.
When we arrived at the backpackers in Waitomo, we dumped our stuff and then set of for the Gloworm caves. Another unusual sight in the caves of thousands of gloworms hanging from the ceiling which looked just like fairy lights. Sorry - no pics as you're not allowed to take any photos in the caves.
That's all for today folks - more tomorrow
Love Sue.
xx
Tuesday, 23 September 2008
Backpackers
Tuesday night we stayed at the 'Mousetrap' backpackers which is nothing like I'd imagined. I shared a room with Ali and it was clean and comfortable. The house is huge with lots of space and nautical knick knacks everywhere. There are several bathrooms and kitchens, a huge lounge with comfy sofas and a log fire - it's a real homely place - I have my bicardi and coke, good company - the 'Kiwi' team are cooking tea and I really feel at home.
There are 13 of us in the group
Greg (student who lives in Canada) and Sara a vet from Cornwall (they're a couple)
Ali - teacher and her daughter from Shropshire
Claudia from Germany
Vicky from Kentish town London
Jenny - a solicitor from Brighton
Neil from Edinburgh who works for HBOS (small world)
Lisa who's in retail from Wellwyn garden city
Wayne who's on crutches as he came of a bike while on hols and is from Newcastle
Catrina who's a safety adviser from Kerry in Ireland
And of course Me and Sue the guide - it's a really good mix of people
Wednesday is a 7.30 start as we're off to Waitomo
Place names are strange here 'Wh' is pronounced 'F' so Whakapapa sounds like 'Fackapapa'
I'm cutting this short as my time is running out but will log in again later and write some more.
There are 13 of us in the group
Greg (student who lives in Canada) and Sara a vet from Cornwall (they're a couple)
Ali - teacher and her daughter from Shropshire
Claudia from Germany
Vicky from Kentish town London
Jenny - a solicitor from Brighton
Neil from Edinburgh who works for HBOS (small world)
Lisa who's in retail from Wellwyn garden city
Wayne who's on crutches as he came of a bike while on hols and is from Newcastle
Catrina who's a safety adviser from Kerry in Ireland
And of course Me and Sue the guide - it's a really good mix of people
Wednesday is a 7.30 start as we're off to Waitomo
Place names are strange here 'Wh' is pronounced 'F' so Whakapapa sounds like 'Fackapapa'
I'm cutting this short as my time is running out but will log in again later and write some more.
Monday, 22 September 2008
Bay of Islands - Day 2
Woke to calm waters and serene surroundings. After breakfast they started the boat and we sailed to Roberton Island where we were to spend the morning.
It was named after the Roberton's who owned the island and one day the husband went out to see and never came back (usual story) ANyway the widow hire an Englishman (who drank too much) and a Maori - Makitoo. Now the Englishman used to mistreat Makitoo and 1 day Makitoo took his revenge and killed him. The widow told him that it wasn't a good idea so Makitoo burned the house down with her and her daughter inside. Her son ran to the cliffs where Makitoo threw him off. Now the surrounding island knew what was going on as Makitoo had lit such a big fire and came and arrested island. To cut a long story short they hung him and he was the first person to be hung in New Zealand - there - a lit bit of history for you.
We also went to the lookout point where we could see all the surrounding islands for 360 degrees. I collect a few shells on the beach, sun bathed for a while and then had lunch.
Back to the boat and set off on route home. Was sitting on the back of the boat admiring the view when the bell rang and everyone ran to the back of the boat where there were a pod of 8 dolphins swimming alongside of us. They stayed with us for about 15 minutes and there were baby dolphins too. What a way to end the island trip - they were truly awesome.
Back at the backpackers called the mousetrap now. No idea what I'm doing tomorrow as I haven't read the itinerary.
More soon
Love Sue
It was named after the Roberton's who owned the island and one day the husband went out to see and never came back (usual story) ANyway the widow hire an Englishman (who drank too much) and a Maori - Makitoo. Now the Englishman used to mistreat Makitoo and 1 day Makitoo took his revenge and killed him. The widow told him that it wasn't a good idea so Makitoo burned the house down with her and her daughter inside. Her son ran to the cliffs where Makitoo threw him off. Now the surrounding island knew what was going on as Makitoo had lit such a big fire and came and arrested island. To cut a long story short they hung him and he was the first person to be hung in New Zealand - there - a lit bit of history for you.
We also went to the lookout point where we could see all the surrounding islands for 360 degrees. I collect a few shells on the beach, sun bathed for a while and then had lunch.
Back to the boat and set off on route home. Was sitting on the back of the boat admiring the view when the bell rang and everyone ran to the back of the boat where there were a pod of 8 dolphins swimming alongside of us. They stayed with us for about 15 minutes and there were baby dolphins too. What a way to end the island trip - they were truly awesome.
Back at the backpackers called the mousetrap now. No idea what I'm doing tomorrow as I haven't read the itinerary.
More soon
Love Sue
NEW ZEALAND - Bay of Islands
Well I've been in New Zealand all of 2 days and so much to say and so many pics to load but they seem to be taking an age.
As I said previously Mac and Julie have been great. I forgot to mention their 2 little dogs Basil and Linus - lovely balls of fluff. Julie even grooms other dogs so they are well groomed.
There are 12 of us in the group plus Sue our guide who's really chatty and likes a laugh. Monday - We drove in a small bus to Paihia - Bay of islands harbour where we had lunch by the sea and they drove to Haruru Falls which were very pretty.
Then we had to wait for the small boat (called the Climax) to collect us to ferry us across to our cruise boat 'The Rock' for our trip and overnight stay. The Climax was very low in the water but it was calm and so not too much stress.
Once on board we settled into our cabins and then went up front of the boat to shoot at a sitting duck (not real mam)and show our rifle skills. Guess who won the glass of wine out of the girls!! Yes me - I knew those lessons in South Africa would come in handy one day. We then did some fishing for tea - I caught 2 red snapper but most of them were thrown back as they were too small. I won a game of pool but I didn't go out for the night kayaking as you know what I'm like with water.
We had a great BBQ of lamb, steak, sausages, fish, potatoes and salad and then had a couple of drinks and listened to one of the crew playing the guitar - he was a little quiet as I think he's new and was nervous.
Off to bed (4 to a room) but slept like a log - I couldn't feel any motion of the boat and it was incredibly calm.
As I said previously Mac and Julie have been great. I forgot to mention their 2 little dogs Basil and Linus - lovely balls of fluff. Julie even grooms other dogs so they are well groomed.
There are 12 of us in the group plus Sue our guide who's really chatty and likes a laugh. Monday - We drove in a small bus to Paihia - Bay of islands harbour where we had lunch by the sea and they drove to Haruru Falls which were very pretty.
Then we had to wait for the small boat (called the Climax) to collect us to ferry us across to our cruise boat 'The Rock' for our trip and overnight stay. The Climax was very low in the water but it was calm and so not too much stress.
Once on board we settled into our cabins and then went up front of the boat to shoot at a sitting duck (not real mam)and show our rifle skills. Guess who won the glass of wine out of the girls!! Yes me - I knew those lessons in South Africa would come in handy one day. We then did some fishing for tea - I caught 2 red snapper but most of them were thrown back as they were too small. I won a game of pool but I didn't go out for the night kayaking as you know what I'm like with water.
We had a great BBQ of lamb, steak, sausages, fish, potatoes and salad and then had a couple of drinks and listened to one of the crew playing the guitar - he was a little quiet as I think he's new and was nervous.
Off to bed (4 to a room) but slept like a log - I couldn't feel any motion of the boat and it was incredibly calm.
Sunday, 21 September 2008
New in New Zealand
Hi All
Well took ages to get through check-in and customs in Brisbane airport as it was the start of the school holidays.
Ian and Judy dropped me off at the airport and I'm so glad I managed to spend the weekend with them. I'm overwhelmed by their hospitality and I know we'll continue to be in touch.
Arrived in NZ and Mac (Kath's brother) and Julie met me at the airport and took me to stay with them for the night. There home is absolutely amazing, set in woodland and overlooking the bay. Again I've been so welcomed by them and they are great people
Can't stop now as we're off to catch a boat for a cruise of the Bay of Islands
Will update soon
Love Sue
Well took ages to get through check-in and customs in Brisbane airport as it was the start of the school holidays.
Ian and Judy dropped me off at the airport and I'm so glad I managed to spend the weekend with them. I'm overwhelmed by their hospitality and I know we'll continue to be in touch.
Arrived in NZ and Mac (Kath's brother) and Julie met me at the airport and took me to stay with them for the night. There home is absolutely amazing, set in woodland and overlooking the bay. Again I've been so welcomed by them and they are great people
Can't stop now as we're off to catch a boat for a cruise of the Bay of Islands
Will update soon
Love Sue
Friday, 19 September 2008
Bye Bye Brisbane
Last night as I said before Ian and Judy cooked a lamb roast with all the trimmings and it was superb - it was such a treat to have a home cooked meal topped off with strawberries and icecream with a hot brandy sauce.Ummm
Judy and Ian have made me so welcome and I've so enjoyed being part of their family and I appreciate how much I miss all of my family back home.
Today is my last day and Judy, her sister Jilly and I went for a walk along the promenade at Shornecliffe. We took Millie with us for the walk and then popped into see Ian's son Paul at his house where Ian is helping him with some doors. Paul has a 9 week old labrador puppy called Ruby who is so cute and who just wanted to play with Millie - so funny to watch them play.
I'm sure this won't be the last time I see them and hopefully the rest of the family in the UK will get to meet them too. Australia is NOT that far away!!
Anyway - it's bye bye for now and I'll speak to you from New Zealand soon
Love to all. Take Care
Sue xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Judy and Ian have made me so welcome and I've so enjoyed being part of their family and I appreciate how much I miss all of my family back home.
Today is my last day and Judy, her sister Jilly and I went for a walk along the promenade at Shornecliffe. We took Millie with us for the walk and then popped into see Ian's son Paul at his house where Ian is helping him with some doors. Paul has a 9 week old labrador puppy called Ruby who is so cute and who just wanted to play with Millie - so funny to watch them play.
I'm sure this won't be the last time I see them and hopefully the rest of the family in the UK will get to meet them too. Australia is NOT that far away!!
Anyway - it's bye bye for now and I'll speak to you from New Zealand soon
Love to all. Take Care
Sue xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Thursday, 18 September 2008
Thursday - last day on project
Last day at Booloumba as Cameron has a training at the office on Friday so this is a short week. We worked on the track in the morning, said our farewells to Kieron and then did the FIg Tree walk (Huge fig trees !!), ate our lunch and then set off back to Albion.
I rang Judy and Ian when we arrived back to see when it was convenient to see them and Judy said 'I'll come and pick you up now!' which was a great surprise as one more night in the 'young' house wasn't that inviting to say the least.
It's been great meeting up with them again and tonight (Friday) we're having a lamb roast and Yvonne and Keith our coming over too. I can't remember the last time I ate lamb and my mouth is watering already.
Have one more day here (Saturday) and then on Sunday I fly to New Zealand so once again I'll be out of touch for a few days.
New Zealand will be a tour so I won't know till I get wherever, what internet access I'll have - I'm sure I'll find something along the way though.
ONLY 4 weeks till I'm home - Hasn't time flown??
Love Sue
xx
I rang Judy and Ian when we arrived back to see when it was convenient to see them and Judy said 'I'll come and pick you up now!' which was a great surprise as one more night in the 'young' house wasn't that inviting to say the least.
It's been great meeting up with them again and tonight (Friday) we're having a lamb roast and Yvonne and Keith our coming over too. I can't remember the last time I ate lamb and my mouth is watering already.
Have one more day here (Saturday) and then on Sunday I fly to New Zealand so once again I'll be out of touch for a few days.
New Zealand will be a tour so I won't know till I get wherever, what internet access I'll have - I'm sure I'll find something along the way though.
ONLY 4 weeks till I'm home - Hasn't time flown??
Love Sue
xx
Wednesday - still on track
Worked with Ranger Kieron today and though it's hard work I feel really good about our progress - completed 20 metres today and my back aches!!
After work, Ranger Wayne took us to Booloumba Falls which is about a 1.5 kms walk and well worth the it even though we were all tired after making the track.
There were 2 waterfalls about a 10 minute walk apart and Wayne seemed to really enjoy telling us about the stonework they'd completed along the walk and the lookout point at the end of the falls. Wayne is the sort of person I'd describe as 'simple' in the nicest possible way but such a lovely guy who is so happy to help and chat with you.
The falls were set in deep in the valley with trees and mountains towering well above them - really really pretty.
After work, Ranger Wayne took us to Booloumba Falls which is about a 1.5 kms walk and well worth the it even though we were all tired after making the track.
There were 2 waterfalls about a 10 minute walk apart and Wayne seemed to really enjoy telling us about the stonework they'd completed along the walk and the lookout point at the end of the falls. Wayne is the sort of person I'd describe as 'simple' in the nicest possible way but such a lovely guy who is so happy to help and chat with you.
The falls were set in deep in the valley with trees and mountains towering well above them - really really pretty.
Tuesday - more track work
Ranger Kieron and Joe(CVA volunteer and part time ranger - more my age/nice chap/married) took us to the fire-look out tower on Mount Allan which again had spectacular views. Previous CVA volunteers had cleared all the overgrown weeds and plants on top of the mountain and landscaped in a natural style and planted new stuff. It looked really great and you could see the hard work they had put into it - it will look even better once the plants are grown. The top of the mountain is one of the destination points where our track will join up.
Before we started work we had our 'smokies' which is the UK equivalent of our 11's. Daniel (Dutch, Joe and I built a small wall to edge the path and retain the earth and then continued to widen the path. Apparently the completed path will ultimately be 60 kms long (approx 40 miles)and has to be completed by 27 September ready for an official opening. Working with Joe was good as he did the heavier axe work and Danial and I levelled it all out. Today was really satisfying as we could see the results of all our efforts.
Finished work at 3 again as we were all fair tuckered out and then we drove to Maleney cheese shop and sampled several cheese before making our purchases. Tonight we had spaghetti bolognes which I prepared and Cameron cooked then we played some more poker before falling into bed for a well earned sleep.
Before we started work we had our 'smokies' which is the UK equivalent of our 11's. Daniel (Dutch, Joe and I built a small wall to edge the path and retain the earth and then continued to widen the path. Apparently the completed path will ultimately be 60 kms long (approx 40 miles)and has to be completed by 27 September ready for an official opening. Working with Joe was good as he did the heavier axe work and Danial and I levelled it all out. Today was really satisfying as we could see the results of all our efforts.
Finished work at 3 again as we were all fair tuckered out and then we drove to Maleney cheese shop and sampled several cheese before making our purchases. Tonight we had spaghetti bolognes which I prepared and Cameron cooked then we played some more poker before falling into bed for a well earned sleep.
Monday - Week 2 of the project
This is the 2nd project week and this time it was making a walking track at Booloumba Creek in the Conondale National Park. It wasn't as long a drive as week 1 and we stopped at 'The Barrel' which is a wine outlet so after 3 or 4 tasters I bought 3 bottles and was given a bar of wine chocolate free!!
As we drove into Kenilworth, I saw a lot scarecrows (all individually dressed)either in the fields or by the gates of houses or schools - I think there was some scarecrow event coming soon.
The area reminds me of the Waltons and Waltons mountains - lots of beautiful mountains/hills and trees and wildlife.
We had lunch as soon as we arrived and then straight out with Ranger Kieron(another good looking Aussie with deep brown eyes)to the track where we took our pick axes, rakes and shovels and proceeded to create a walkway through the forest. It was blooming hard work I can tell you but we knocked off at 3 and drove back through the fords and countryside. At one point we saw a carpet snake on the side of the road - it was big and not at all happy to see us but NOT poisonous Mam.
Also went to the small hamlet of Kenilworth to pick up some food supplies and it's the nearest place where there is any phone reception. The library is the only place that has internet access but it only has 1 PC so didn't bother with that.
The'bunkhouse' where we were expecting to stay and sleep on the floor, turned out to be a huge cabin and again I managed to secure the single bedroom. There was a deck that overlooked the valley and you can seen the mountains through the trees. This was an idyllic spot withlots of walks and plenty of wildlife.
In the evening Yosuke cooked chicken teryaki and rice and then we played Texas hold-em poker till late - I was doing pretty well but then lost the lot
As we drove into Kenilworth, I saw a lot scarecrows (all individually dressed)either in the fields or by the gates of houses or schools - I think there was some scarecrow event coming soon.
The area reminds me of the Waltons and Waltons mountains - lots of beautiful mountains/hills and trees and wildlife.
We had lunch as soon as we arrived and then straight out with Ranger Kieron(another good looking Aussie with deep brown eyes)to the track where we took our pick axes, rakes and shovels and proceeded to create a walkway through the forest. It was blooming hard work I can tell you but we knocked off at 3 and drove back through the fords and countryside. At one point we saw a carpet snake on the side of the road - it was big and not at all happy to see us but NOT poisonous Mam.
Also went to the small hamlet of Kenilworth to pick up some food supplies and it's the nearest place where there is any phone reception. The library is the only place that has internet access but it only has 1 PC so didn't bother with that.
The'bunkhouse' where we were expecting to stay and sleep on the floor, turned out to be a huge cabin and again I managed to secure the single bedroom. There was a deck that overlooked the valley and you can seen the mountains through the trees. This was an idyllic spot withlots of walks and plenty of wildlife.
In the evening Yosuke cooked chicken teryaki and rice and then we played Texas hold-em poker till late - I was doing pretty well but then lost the lot
Sunday - Picasso
I was going to meet up with Graham today but household drama meant a change of plan so I went to the Picasso exhibition instead and then took a ride on the Citycat ferry along the Brisbane river (full circuit which was 2 hours)- it certainly is a very fast mode of transport.
Back to South Bank where there was a craft market and there were a couple of psychics/tarot card readers and I was tempted but thought I let the future take it's course.
I had a 'Parisian' crepe for lunch at one of the Arbour cafes and listened to another band playing aboriginal and rock music - they were pretty good.
There were loads of people at South Bank as amongst all the arbours and cultural centres, there is a Street Beach where families bring there kids to enjoy the sand and water.
Back to South Bank where there was a craft market and there were a couple of psychics/tarot card readers and I was tempted but thought I let the future take it's course.
I had a 'Parisian' crepe for lunch at one of the Arbour cafes and listened to another band playing aboriginal and rock music - they were pretty good.
There were loads of people at South Bank as amongst all the arbours and cultural centres, there is a Street Beach where families bring there kids to enjoy the sand and water.
Saturday - Weddings in the Park
After I'd updated my blog I walked back along the riverbank to the Goodwill Bridge over the Brisbane river which leads to the Botanic gardens. On my way I stopped to see the Nepalese Pagoda , visited the Brisbane Museum (all 5 floors), had a coffee while a young girl and her brother played guitar and sang rolling stones, led Zeppelin and Jimi Hendrix - all while watching the world go by. I took in the view of Brisbane city from a bench on the bridge before I reached the gardens.
Saturday (like in the UK) is 'wedding day' and in the gardens I saw at least 3 weddings parties set in these lovely surroundings and one even had a 4 piece orchestra playing classical music.
There were a group of women celebrating someones birthday with a buffet, champagne etc, - I saw cyclists, skateboarders, guys playing football - it's a real good people watching place. AT one point I noticed a tug of war happening so I walked across to watch - it turned out to be a 33rd anniversary celebration of some sort - perhaps aboriginal/native as there were a pile of grass skirts on the floor ready for someone to put on. There were also 2 bands playing on stage. The parks here are certainly a lot more lively than those in the UK.
Saturday (like in the UK) is 'wedding day' and in the gardens I saw at least 3 weddings parties set in these lovely surroundings and one even had a 4 piece orchestra playing classical music.
There were a group of women celebrating someones birthday with a buffet, champagne etc, - I saw cyclists, skateboarders, guys playing football - it's a real good people watching place. AT one point I noticed a tug of war happening so I walked across to watch - it turned out to be a 33rd anniversary celebration of some sort - perhaps aboriginal/native as there were a pile of grass skirts on the floor ready for someone to put on. There were also 2 bands playing on stage. The parks here are certainly a lot more lively than those in the UK.
Saturday, 13 September 2008
Picasso Exhibition
Hi Yas
Just to let you know that I came to South Bank again today and went to the Picasso Exhibition. You would have enjoyed it but I couldn't take any photos - couldn't even take my rucksack in with me.
There were lots of other artists on display too - Cezanne, Renoir, Matisse plus more.
Off on a boat trip maybe
Love Sue
Just to let you know that I came to South Bank again today and went to the Picasso Exhibition. You would have enjoyed it but I couldn't take any photos - couldn't even take my rucksack in with me.
There were lots of other artists on display too - Cezanne, Renoir, Matisse plus more.
Off on a boat trip maybe
Love Sue
Friday, 12 September 2008
Last blog continued
Sorry about that folks - I'm on the internet at the State Library, Which is FREE but you only get an hour and then you have to join the queue again to get more time. Fair system though I'd say and the wait is always less than estimated. hey also have wireless access here to there are loads of people with their laptops.
OK - where was I??
Wednesday In the afternoon we drove up to Hervey Bay pronounced Harvey)which has stunning beaches and Fraser Island is just off the coast and apparently the place to visit - it is all sand and has lakes, rainforests, ship wrecks, beaches and you can only see it via a 4wheel drive vehicle. I was hoping to stay the weekend and go see it but it meant I had to get back to the volunteer house ready for Monday start. I'll just have to come back another day to do the touring bit properly. AS I said before - it's a hard life being a volunteer!! LOL
Tonight was Australia BBQ night and Mick (the local)cooked the sausages and onions on the barbie - he showed us his 'chef's' skills in cutting the onions and proceeded to cook whilst drinking his beer (which he also used to baste the onions) and entertaining us with talk of the war, the australians part in the war, the story behind Anzac biscuits. He also went on to talk about the americans, the blacks and the aussies - all of which was completely politically incorrect but funny none the less. There were a few other of his local mates with him but Mick took centre stage - a very entertaining evening.
Thursday Another day at the office but this was our last day working - I use the term loosely as we've only really managed to work in the mornings - that's a total of 1 1/2 days in total - laid back or what?
Must say though, as a team, we've cleared loads (see the before and after photos of one section we did) and it's good to see how much we've achieved. I think the philosophy here is - fun first and work second - if at all.
Mind you - all this work must be too much for the younger folk as they're all asleep after lunch, even Cameron the team leader is asleep too. I went for a stroll around the grounds but again we're miles from civilisation or any attractions so was a little bit bored today.
I did start to make the cottage pie ready for tea in the evening - Cameron had bought 2 and half kilos of mince - enough to feed the 5000. Everyone ate all their dinner though so it couldn't have been that bad, but we had loads left over which we had for breakfast on Friday.
One thing I have noticed while we've been away is that everytime I go to wash up or clear things away Eunju (she's Korean) and even some of the Japanese youngsters always try to stop me and say they'll do it. After a while I realised that this is a cultural thing and the 'respect' that other countries have for their elders - nice to see this in the younger generation - the UK could learn a lot!!
Friday All ready by 9.15 to leave but drama as the trailer lights connection was broken so Cameron had to call the office to find out the wire sequence and my trusty swiss army knife came in use too.
10.15 and off we go for the 3 hour journey back to the house in Albion.
Back at the house by 1pm and then by 2.30 the new volunteers arrive along with the weekend shopping. You'd think the kids in the house hadn't been fed for months - it was like a plague of locusts descending on it and the aftermath is just like a bombshell has gone off in the kitchen. Is it me - am I getting old!!
In all fairness to them though, they do eventually clear up after themselves but if you want to cook in the kitchen it can be a challenge.
Saturday Today I've come to South Bank which streches along the river and has a cultural centre with loads of art galleries, theatres and entertainment. At the moment there is a Picasso exhibition in the modern art gallery but the queue was so long - sorry Yas.
I'm off to Connondale National Park next week which is not too far from Brisbane. I could be finishing building a bridge which the other volunteers started - there is no end to my talent. LOL.
There may not be internet access so you may have to wait a while till I update again.
I must say I don't seem to have a lot to write about here in Brisbane - it's all very western so I hope my blogs are not becoming too boring.
Hope the August weather in the UK had not continued into September.
Love Sue
xx
OK - where was I??
Wednesday In the afternoon we drove up to Hervey Bay pronounced Harvey)which has stunning beaches and Fraser Island is just off the coast and apparently the place to visit - it is all sand and has lakes, rainforests, ship wrecks, beaches and you can only see it via a 4wheel drive vehicle. I was hoping to stay the weekend and go see it but it meant I had to get back to the volunteer house ready for Monday start. I'll just have to come back another day to do the touring bit properly. AS I said before - it's a hard life being a volunteer!! LOL
Tonight was Australia BBQ night and Mick (the local)cooked the sausages and onions on the barbie - he showed us his 'chef's' skills in cutting the onions and proceeded to cook whilst drinking his beer (which he also used to baste the onions) and entertaining us with talk of the war, the australians part in the war, the story behind Anzac biscuits. He also went on to talk about the americans, the blacks and the aussies - all of which was completely politically incorrect but funny none the less. There were a few other of his local mates with him but Mick took centre stage - a very entertaining evening.
Thursday Another day at the office but this was our last day working - I use the term loosely as we've only really managed to work in the mornings - that's a total of 1 1/2 days in total - laid back or what?
Must say though, as a team, we've cleared loads (see the before and after photos of one section we did) and it's good to see how much we've achieved. I think the philosophy here is - fun first and work second - if at all.
Mind you - all this work must be too much for the younger folk as they're all asleep after lunch, even Cameron the team leader is asleep too. I went for a stroll around the grounds but again we're miles from civilisation or any attractions so was a little bit bored today.
I did start to make the cottage pie ready for tea in the evening - Cameron had bought 2 and half kilos of mince - enough to feed the 5000. Everyone ate all their dinner though so it couldn't have been that bad, but we had loads left over which we had for breakfast on Friday.
One thing I have noticed while we've been away is that everytime I go to wash up or clear things away Eunju (she's Korean) and even some of the Japanese youngsters always try to stop me and say they'll do it. After a while I realised that this is a cultural thing and the 'respect' that other countries have for their elders - nice to see this in the younger generation - the UK could learn a lot!!
Friday All ready by 9.15 to leave but drama as the trailer lights connection was broken so Cameron had to call the office to find out the wire sequence and my trusty swiss army knife came in use too.
10.15 and off we go for the 3 hour journey back to the house in Albion.
Back at the house by 1pm and then by 2.30 the new volunteers arrive along with the weekend shopping. You'd think the kids in the house hadn't been fed for months - it was like a plague of locusts descending on it and the aftermath is just like a bombshell has gone off in the kitchen. Is it me - am I getting old!!
In all fairness to them though, they do eventually clear up after themselves but if you want to cook in the kitchen it can be a challenge.
Saturday Today I've come to South Bank which streches along the river and has a cultural centre with loads of art galleries, theatres and entertainment. At the moment there is a Picasso exhibition in the modern art gallery but the queue was so long - sorry Yas.
I'm off to Connondale National Park next week which is not too far from Brisbane. I could be finishing building a bridge which the other volunteers started - there is no end to my talent. LOL.
There may not be internet access so you may have to wait a while till I update again.
I must say I don't seem to have a lot to write about here in Brisbane - it's all very western so I hope my blogs are not becoming too boring.
Hope the August weather in the UK had not continued into September.
Love Sue
xx
Brisbane - what did I miss last time
Well I read all my notes that I'd left behind and they were so nicely written but this is what I think I missed out from the blog.
- The 110 year old house we saw on the way to the project was morved from it's original location in Bridges to Yandina where it is now. It sells local crafts, jams and pickles etc and Cameron bought a jar of Hot curry chutney which we ate with crisps and was beaut!!
- Forgot to mention the Toyota hats and water bottles we were given. We have to cover up when on location - hats, trousers, long sleeved tops and make sure we have our sun block on and insect repellent - it's like being kids again.
Tuesday
As Monday was spent travelling and when we arrived - no-one was expecting us so we didn't do any work on Monday.
Tuesday I had a good night's sleep as I managed to secure the one bedroom in the cabin while the others were in bunk beds or on the sofa. I was up early and wandered around the grounds at the cabin with my cuppa and watched a couple of roos in the field.
By the time we'd had breakfast and made our packed lunches it was 9.30 before we set out for our 1st days 'real' work. Cameron gave us a brief overview of the do's and don'ts then we set about clearing the weeds so that you could see through the forest.
At 11.30 we took a half hour break then we worked till 1.30 and back to camp - it sure is hard work being a volunteer. Had a laze about for an hour and then off to Maryborough to the local sights ( or the internet in my case)
Back at the house the Japanes contingent cooked beef teryaki for tea which was pretty good considering the limited kitchen space we have.
Wednesday No hot water this morning and went to work looking a wreck. We cleared loads today - I can't believe how high these 'weeds' have grown but we all had a great sense of satisfaction.
Went to Queens Park for a BBQ lunch but couldn't find the barbie so went back to camp for bacon and eggs instead.
I have to log off at this point as my time is up on the internet at the library
TO BE CONTINUED
- The 110 year old house we saw on the way to the project was morved from it's original location in Bridges to Yandina where it is now. It sells local crafts, jams and pickles etc and Cameron bought a jar of Hot curry chutney which we ate with crisps and was beaut!!
- Forgot to mention the Toyota hats and water bottles we were given. We have to cover up when on location - hats, trousers, long sleeved tops and make sure we have our sun block on and insect repellent - it's like being kids again.
Tuesday
As Monday was spent travelling and when we arrived - no-one was expecting us so we didn't do any work on Monday.
Tuesday I had a good night's sleep as I managed to secure the one bedroom in the cabin while the others were in bunk beds or on the sofa. I was up early and wandered around the grounds at the cabin with my cuppa and watched a couple of roos in the field.
By the time we'd had breakfast and made our packed lunches it was 9.30 before we set out for our 1st days 'real' work. Cameron gave us a brief overview of the do's and don'ts then we set about clearing the weeds so that you could see through the forest.
At 11.30 we took a half hour break then we worked till 1.30 and back to camp - it sure is hard work being a volunteer. Had a laze about for an hour and then off to Maryborough to the local sights ( or the internet in my case)
Back at the house the Japanes contingent cooked beef teryaki for tea which was pretty good considering the limited kitchen space we have.
Wednesday No hot water this morning and went to work looking a wreck. We cleared loads today - I can't believe how high these 'weeds' have grown but we all had a great sense of satisfaction.
Went to Queens Park for a BBQ lunch but couldn't find the barbie so went back to camp for bacon and eggs instead.
I have to log off at this point as my time is up on the internet at the library
TO BE CONTINUED
Monday, 8 September 2008
Maryborough - clearing weeds
Hi all
Well I've come to the internet and left all my blogs notes (3 pages of them) at the camp, so I'll have to try and remember what I've done in the last few days.
Sunday afternoon I went to the Botanic gardens in Brisbane - it was similar to SYdney but instead of joggers there were lots of cyclists and families out for the weekend sun. It also had a mangrove area where you could walk across boards on the river edge and look for marine life (not that I saw any). There were lots of birds in the garden too and in the ponds you could see large eels and small turtles - the little kids and I were in awe of what we could spot first. I also saw lots of lizards which were unperturbed about who was walking by and the one in the picture had no intention of moving out of my way.
On my way back to the train I stopped for lunch in a pub and had sausage frittate with onions and tomatoes on a bed of greens - very nice
Caught the train back with Cory and then had to decide what to pack to take with me to Hervy Bay.
Monday Didn't get a good night's sleep as some of the youngsters were leaving and they just seemed to be laughing and having fun ( I think I was young once) ANyway on of them came to bed around 1.30 and climbed in the bunk above me, fidgeted for a while - by this time I was awake and then tossed and turned.
Got up around 6am, showered, finished the last of my packing and then was out there ready at 7.45 as instructed.
Don and Fabio were messing with the electrics on one of the trailers and then Cameron (our guide - and this was his 1st project away) arrived with the shopping, then after more consultation and faffing (and it wasn't me) we all get on board and Cameron starts to drive off - there was a funny sound in the engine so again they had a look under the bonnet and then decide 'all OK' By this time it's 9.10 but off we go.
We stopped at a local information centre which was an old pioneer's house (110 years old) It's original site was taken over by the Roads people and so they moved the whole building to it's current location.
4 hours later we arrive at the caravan park where we're to stay. It was not Hervey Bay as we'd been told but still a nice place and we will get to visit Hervey Bay while we're here.
There are 5 of us sharing the cabin and I went out for a stroll around the grounds and met Marjory - one of those interesting characters that you expect to find in a horror movie. Majory helps with the cleaning and tells me she loves it here and that none of her family speak to her and she doesn't see her grandkids. SHe mentioned drugs but I wasn't sure if this was her daughter or her. Great to listen to her though and she tells us to look for the kangaroos in the fields between 6 and 7am .
She took me on a tour of the campsite and it seems that most of the inmates here are permanent residents with I'm sure an interesting story or two to tell.
Cory and Cameron met Mick who has lived at the site for ages and does the odd jobs there. Apparently he is loaded but gave up everything when his daughter died and is just happy living where he is with his dogs. He invited us to come see him feed the possums on his shed roof in the evenings.
Teatime and Cameron organised that we have themed nights for dinner. Last night was Burger and chips with salad as Cory is from the USA.
Tonight we're having Japanese and a lot of the volunteers are from Japan.
Wednesday is Ozzie night BBQ which Mick says he'll invite all the locals - so that will be interesting.
Thursday night will be good old English Cottage pie (No I didn't make the point of being Welsh!)
Friday is back to base
Anyway that's all I can rememer for now. I'll tell you more about what I'm doing next time
Love. Sue xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Well I've come to the internet and left all my blogs notes (3 pages of them) at the camp, so I'll have to try and remember what I've done in the last few days.
Sunday afternoon I went to the Botanic gardens in Brisbane - it was similar to SYdney but instead of joggers there were lots of cyclists and families out for the weekend sun. It also had a mangrove area where you could walk across boards on the river edge and look for marine life (not that I saw any). There were lots of birds in the garden too and in the ponds you could see large eels and small turtles - the little kids and I were in awe of what we could spot first. I also saw lots of lizards which were unperturbed about who was walking by and the one in the picture had no intention of moving out of my way.
On my way back to the train I stopped for lunch in a pub and had sausage frittate with onions and tomatoes on a bed of greens - very nice
Caught the train back with Cory and then had to decide what to pack to take with me to Hervy Bay.
Monday Didn't get a good night's sleep as some of the youngsters were leaving and they just seemed to be laughing and having fun ( I think I was young once) ANyway on of them came to bed around 1.30 and climbed in the bunk above me, fidgeted for a while - by this time I was awake and then tossed and turned.
Got up around 6am, showered, finished the last of my packing and then was out there ready at 7.45 as instructed.
Don and Fabio were messing with the electrics on one of the trailers and then Cameron (our guide - and this was his 1st project away) arrived with the shopping, then after more consultation and faffing (and it wasn't me) we all get on board and Cameron starts to drive off - there was a funny sound in the engine so again they had a look under the bonnet and then decide 'all OK' By this time it's 9.10 but off we go.
We stopped at a local information centre which was an old pioneer's house (110 years old) It's original site was taken over by the Roads people and so they moved the whole building to it's current location.
4 hours later we arrive at the caravan park where we're to stay. It was not Hervey Bay as we'd been told but still a nice place and we will get to visit Hervey Bay while we're here.
There are 5 of us sharing the cabin and I went out for a stroll around the grounds and met Marjory - one of those interesting characters that you expect to find in a horror movie. Majory helps with the cleaning and tells me she loves it here and that none of her family speak to her and she doesn't see her grandkids. SHe mentioned drugs but I wasn't sure if this was her daughter or her. Great to listen to her though and she tells us to look for the kangaroos in the fields between 6 and 7am .
She took me on a tour of the campsite and it seems that most of the inmates here are permanent residents with I'm sure an interesting story or two to tell.
Cory and Cameron met Mick who has lived at the site for ages and does the odd jobs there. Apparently he is loaded but gave up everything when his daughter died and is just happy living where he is with his dogs. He invited us to come see him feed the possums on his shed roof in the evenings.
Teatime and Cameron organised that we have themed nights for dinner. Last night was Burger and chips with salad as Cory is from the USA.
Tonight we're having Japanese and a lot of the volunteers are from Japan.
Wednesday is Ozzie night BBQ which Mick says he'll invite all the locals - so that will be interesting.
Thursday night will be good old English Cottage pie (No I didn't make the point of being Welsh!)
Friday is back to base
Anyway that's all I can rememer for now. I'll tell you more about what I'm doing next time
Love. Sue xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Saturday, 6 September 2008
Conservation Volunteers Australia (CVA)
On Friday Ian dropped my at the station and got me organised on the train, he gave me some home made cookies too which were great.
I found the CVA office easily as Judy had given me good directions and then I met 3 other volunteers - Ayami from Japan, Cory from Pennsylvania and Michael from AUstria. There are about 18 volunteers staying at the volunteer's house - mostly from Japan , so I now know how it feels to be in the minority from a language perspective. I'm the only 'grown up' too - average age is around 21.
There are 6 to a room, sleeping in bunks beds and everyone 'mucks in' to cook dinner, today was the first time in months since I've actually cooked anything.
It'll be slightly different when we go to the project on Monday as there'll only be 10 of us so much more room in the kitchen.
Saturday - Justin (good looking from York)picked us up at 7.45 to drive us to Noosa National Park - it was a 2 hour journey but nice as it was along the Sunshine coast.
We walked for an hour along the coastal hill path to Hells Gate point where we sat and ate our lunch and watched a few dolphins swimming off the coast. The coastal line, and sea are beautiful and there were lots of people riding the surf.
Came back to Hastings village and had an icecream (4$) and sat on the beach for an hour while Justing took his surfboard out for a spin.
Sunday today and have come into the city to update you all and have a wander round the sights of Brisbane.
We go to Hervey Bay on our project tomorrow and I'm hoping to be able to go to Fraser's island where apparently it's the best place to see whales.
Not sure when I'll get to the internet again, but will let you know how I get on.
Love Sue xx
I found the CVA office easily as Judy had given me good directions and then I met 3 other volunteers - Ayami from Japan, Cory from Pennsylvania and Michael from AUstria. There are about 18 volunteers staying at the volunteer's house - mostly from Japan , so I now know how it feels to be in the minority from a language perspective. I'm the only 'grown up' too - average age is around 21.
There are 6 to a room, sleeping in bunks beds and everyone 'mucks in' to cook dinner, today was the first time in months since I've actually cooked anything.
It'll be slightly different when we go to the project on Monday as there'll only be 10 of us so much more room in the kitchen.
Saturday - Justin (good looking from York)picked us up at 7.45 to drive us to Noosa National Park - it was a 2 hour journey but nice as it was along the Sunshine coast.
We walked for an hour along the coastal hill path to Hells Gate point where we sat and ate our lunch and watched a few dolphins swimming off the coast. The coastal line, and sea are beautiful and there were lots of people riding the surf.
Came back to Hastings village and had an icecream (4$) and sat on the beach for an hour while Justing took his surfboard out for a spin.
Sunday today and have come into the city to update you all and have a wander round the sights of Brisbane.
We go to Hervey Bay on our project tomorrow and I'm hoping to be able to go to Fraser's island where apparently it's the best place to see whales.
Not sure when I'll get to the internet again, but will let you know how I get on.
Love Sue xx
Wednesday, 3 September 2008
Meeting the Oz side of the Isaacs family in Brisbane
Hi all
Have arrived in Brisbane and I rang Ian and Judy to see if we could meet up in between my project - Judy is my 2nd cousin on my dad's side.
Judy invited me to stay with them for the night which was really kind cos I could be one of those relatives with all sorts of strange tendencies.
Anyway got picked up from the airport and taken to their lovely home in Mitchleton. Their house is huge and they have a lovely German pointer called Mildred (Millie) - she reminds me a bit of Buster but a shorter version and a dark chocolate brown.
They are really lovely people and Yvonne (Judy's mum) came over to meet me - she's 87 and still driving her car. Have been made for feel really welcome and will stop by here on my way back from the projects.
Not much to say at the moment. It is pouring with rain here but as there is a drought here, the water is very welcome.
Start on my project tomorrow - apparently the 1st week I'll be going to a place called Hervey Bay which is next to Fraser Island, which is a very nice place, so lots to look forward to.
All for now
Love Sue. xx
Have arrived in Brisbane and I rang Ian and Judy to see if we could meet up in between my project - Judy is my 2nd cousin on my dad's side.
Judy invited me to stay with them for the night which was really kind cos I could be one of those relatives with all sorts of strange tendencies.
Anyway got picked up from the airport and taken to their lovely home in Mitchleton. Their house is huge and they have a lovely German pointer called Mildred (Millie) - she reminds me a bit of Buster but a shorter version and a dark chocolate brown.
They are really lovely people and Yvonne (Judy's mum) came over to meet me - she's 87 and still driving her car. Have been made for feel really welcome and will stop by here on my way back from the projects.
Not much to say at the moment. It is pouring with rain here but as there is a drought here, the water is very welcome.
Start on my project tomorrow - apparently the 1st week I'll be going to a place called Hervey Bay which is next to Fraser Island, which is a very nice place, so lots to look forward to.
All for now
Love Sue. xx
Tuesday, 2 September 2008
Strolling and Take me to the Bridge
Monday Today I walked to Mrs Macquarie's poit which has the best views of the Oopera House and Bridge. As I walked along there were loads of joggers. Now the last time I saw something like this it was in Singapore and it turned out to be a marathon, so I asked the question to one of the runners - 'I this National Joggers day or is this some event?' Answer - This is just a normal lunch hour!! - Mad or What!!
Had lunch in the Botanic gardens and then strolled back to the point which is parrallel to the Opera house and has magnificent views of the bridge. I lay on the park bench and looked up at the clear blue sunny sky (today the weather was more like I expected in Oz) and was just in awe of this perfect place, the views and the sheer peace I had lying there.
Tuesday - the thing I said I may do
Well today I joined the realms of all those mad people that take it on themselves to scale the dizzy heights of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Sorry I won't have any photos that I can publish as you're not allowed to take anything with you - no cameras, watches, jewellery - not even a tissue.
Arrived early and watched the video of the climb, then given the briefing and donned the really attractive bridge suit. Then was laden down with the fleece, harness, hat gloves, walkie talkie and hankie and off we went - up some stairs and on to the first catwalk which takes you over the roads and to the pylons of the bridge. Then up the ladders through the inside of the bridge to the starting point of the climb and the long walk over the top arch of the bridge to the summit. The weather couldn't have been more perfect - sunny beautiful blue skies and the views all the way up are incredible. You can see the whole of Sydney and the islands on both sides of the bridge. On the way up the climb we met the brother of the Olymic gold medalist swimmer - Lindsey Davenport ( I think that's her 1st name) At the top there was a raven's nest that had just been build and the raven was just nestling in the nest without a care in the world. I have my certificate and photos from the climb to prove I was there and did it!!
Now on to Brisbane on Thursday, so again will be out of touch for a couple of days.
Thanks again for all your comments
Over and out from Sydney!!
Love to all. Sue. xxxxxxxxxxx
Had lunch in the Botanic gardens and then strolled back to the point which is parrallel to the Opera house and has magnificent views of the bridge. I lay on the park bench and looked up at the clear blue sunny sky (today the weather was more like I expected in Oz) and was just in awe of this perfect place, the views and the sheer peace I had lying there.
Tuesday - the thing I said I may do
Well today I joined the realms of all those mad people that take it on themselves to scale the dizzy heights of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Sorry I won't have any photos that I can publish as you're not allowed to take anything with you - no cameras, watches, jewellery - not even a tissue.
Arrived early and watched the video of the climb, then given the briefing and donned the really attractive bridge suit. Then was laden down with the fleece, harness, hat gloves, walkie talkie and hankie and off we went - up some stairs and on to the first catwalk which takes you over the roads and to the pylons of the bridge. Then up the ladders through the inside of the bridge to the starting point of the climb and the long walk over the top arch of the bridge to the summit. The weather couldn't have been more perfect - sunny beautiful blue skies and the views all the way up are incredible. You can see the whole of Sydney and the islands on both sides of the bridge. On the way up the climb we met the brother of the Olymic gold medalist swimmer - Lindsey Davenport ( I think that's her 1st name) At the top there was a raven's nest that had just been build and the raven was just nestling in the nest without a care in the world. I have my certificate and photos from the climb to prove I was there and did it!!
Now on to Brisbane on Thursday, so again will be out of touch for a couple of days.
Thanks again for all your comments
Over and out from Sydney!!
Love to all. Sue. xxxxxxxxxxx
Saturday, 30 August 2008
Weekend in Sidney
Saturday - again no plans - took my time getting up and then caught the bus to the city and updated my blog and caught up on my mail. Strolled down to 'The Rocks' where they hold an open air market on the weekends - none of your tack here - lots of craft stalls under canopies selling things from aboriginal jigsaws (Yes I was tempted) to hiring a Harley Davidson for the day. There were lots and lots of goodies to taste and I tried them all (fudge, jams, coated nuts). I nearly bought a huge strawberry covered in chocolate but at 1.50 each - I refrained.
I've got quite good at resisting the temptation to buy - I remind myself of the painting I bought in Nepal and the difficulty in packing it in the rucksack.
Also visited Cadman's cottage which was the cockswain's house built in 1816 and then I had an Aussie size (real) beefburger in a cafe overlooking the harbour.
Sunday Got up late again (I'm getting lazy) and it had been raining so instead of going for another walk to Mrs Macquirie's chair by the Botanic gardens I decided to visit the Aquarium at Darling Harbour. Found my money off voucher and off I went. Arrived to find that most of the tourists in Sydney had the same idea but I was not deterred and queued for a while to get in. It was better than I expected - loads and loads of fish, small penquins and views of the seals and sharks from under the water. I spent ages just mesmerised by the size of the sharks and the Stingrays and to look at them directly above you was something else.
Lunch at a Cocklebay wharf restarant - lasagne with a spinach and feta cheese salad was really nice and only cost a fiver.
Decided to pop into the internet on my way back so you're all up to date.
Nice to get a comment from you Phyllis - hope all is well.
Spoke to Rubes Dave and Ceri this week which was really great
Love to all
Sue xxx
I've got quite good at resisting the temptation to buy - I remind myself of the painting I bought in Nepal and the difficulty in packing it in the rucksack.
Also visited Cadman's cottage which was the cockswain's house built in 1816 and then I had an Aussie size (real) beefburger in a cafe overlooking the harbour.
Sunday Got up late again (I'm getting lazy) and it had been raining so instead of going for another walk to Mrs Macquirie's chair by the Botanic gardens I decided to visit the Aquarium at Darling Harbour. Found my money off voucher and off I went. Arrived to find that most of the tourists in Sydney had the same idea but I was not deterred and queued for a while to get in. It was better than I expected - loads and loads of fish, small penquins and views of the seals and sharks from under the water. I spent ages just mesmerised by the size of the sharks and the Stingrays and to look at them directly above you was something else.
Lunch at a Cocklebay wharf restarant - lasagne with a spinach and feta cheese salad was really nice and only cost a fiver.
Decided to pop into the internet on my way back so you're all up to date.
Nice to get a comment from you Phyllis - hope all is well.
Spoke to Rubes Dave and Ceri this week which was really great
Love to all
Sue xxx
Friday, 29 August 2008
Friday - Blue Mountains tour
7.25am pick up from the hotel ny Michael the tour guide and driver - very nice man around my age who was funny, interesting and well informed with his commentary on things we passed, history of Sydney, the flora and fauna, and animals of Australia.
It was a small coach with only 20 people in the group so it was easy to chat to others.
First stop was the wildlife park where I held a lizard, got photographed with a koala, fed the kangaroos and saw a huge crocodile which I thought was fake until it moved it's mouth.. There were beautiful birds particularly the white and blue pheasant who displayed it's full plummage for us.
We then drove to a local park where Michael showed us the finer technique of boomerang throwing - AND 'my boomerang came back' - was well impressed and received a round of applause from the group.
On the way to the mountains we passed warning signs for Kangaroos crossing the roads and also a fire warning sign which showed the level of liklihood for bush fires - today it was Low - you;'ll be pleased to hear.
Got to the mountains and stopped for lunch at a motel - hot buffet which I wasn't expecting and the food was really good. Then on to Echo point and a view of the 3 sisters and the valleys below. Apparently the 3 sisters were turned to stone by their father who didn't want them mixing with some lads from another village - he had an accident and then couldn't turn them back. My photos can show the awesome (new word) views from the lookout point.
Off to the scenic world where we took the Skyway across the canyon, then took the scenic railway (bit like Alton towers) down the cliff face into the valley below. Walked through the woods, past a mine with all the history replicated and then under the rainforest canopy back to the cable car which brought us back to the top of the mountains.
Another drive to Govetts Leap where there were more spectacular views of the mountains, waterfall and valleys and then to Leura where there is an amzing candy shop - wall to wall and floor to ceiling full of sweets and chocolates - I thought I'd died and gone to heaven. We were running late so only a short stop at Leura (probably just as well) - it was a lovely village with lots of quaint shops and tea rooms.
Finally drove through the Olympic village and then to the ferry cruise on Matilda back to Circular Quay - what a full day. I'm exhausted just writing it all up and I'm sure there's things I'll have missed
Quiet day today!!
Love Sue
xxxxxxxxxxxx
It was a small coach with only 20 people in the group so it was easy to chat to others.
First stop was the wildlife park where I held a lizard, got photographed with a koala, fed the kangaroos and saw a huge crocodile which I thought was fake until it moved it's mouth.. There were beautiful birds particularly the white and blue pheasant who displayed it's full plummage for us.
We then drove to a local park where Michael showed us the finer technique of boomerang throwing - AND 'my boomerang came back' - was well impressed and received a round of applause from the group.
On the way to the mountains we passed warning signs for Kangaroos crossing the roads and also a fire warning sign which showed the level of liklihood for bush fires - today it was Low - you;'ll be pleased to hear.
Got to the mountains and stopped for lunch at a motel - hot buffet which I wasn't expecting and the food was really good. Then on to Echo point and a view of the 3 sisters and the valleys below. Apparently the 3 sisters were turned to stone by their father who didn't want them mixing with some lads from another village - he had an accident and then couldn't turn them back. My photos can show the awesome (new word) views from the lookout point.
Off to the scenic world where we took the Skyway across the canyon, then took the scenic railway (bit like Alton towers) down the cliff face into the valley below. Walked through the woods, past a mine with all the history replicated and then under the rainforest canopy back to the cable car which brought us back to the top of the mountains.
Another drive to Govetts Leap where there were more spectacular views of the mountains, waterfall and valleys and then to Leura where there is an amzing candy shop - wall to wall and floor to ceiling full of sweets and chocolates - I thought I'd died and gone to heaven. We were running late so only a short stop at Leura (probably just as well) - it was a lovely village with lots of quaint shops and tea rooms.
Finally drove through the Olympic village and then to the ferry cruise on Matilda back to Circular Quay - what a full day. I'm exhausted just writing it all up and I'm sure there's things I'll have missed
Quiet day today!!
Love Sue
xxxxxxxxxxxx
Thursday - Darling Harbour
Have my routine now - breakfast, library to load photos and then the bus into the city to see where it takes me. Have to go to woolies internet to update my blog and check email as the library has lots of restrictions on different sites.
Walked to Darling Harbour today where there is an Aquarium, Maritime museum and lots of cafes/restaurants like the waterfronts in Bristol and Cardiff Bay. It was nice to wander around and just sit on the boardwalk feeding the birds who come right up next to you - no fear.
Then went to the Chinese garden - a hint of the orient in the midst of the city. Again it was a lovely place but I imagine it is much nicer in the summer when the trees and flowers are in full bloom - it's only just springtime here so a lot of the trees are only just in bud and there is a crispness in the air even with the sun out.
Home earlier today as a full day on Friday - Blue Mountains tour.
See ya
Love Sue. xx
Walked to Darling Harbour today where there is an Aquarium, Maritime museum and lots of cafes/restaurants like the waterfronts in Bristol and Cardiff Bay. It was nice to wander around and just sit on the boardwalk feeding the birds who come right up next to you - no fear.
Then went to the Chinese garden - a hint of the orient in the midst of the city. Again it was a lovely place but I imagine it is much nicer in the summer when the trees and flowers are in full bloom - it's only just springtime here so a lot of the trees are only just in bud and there is a crispness in the air even with the sun out.
Home earlier today as a full day on Friday - Blue Mountains tour.
See ya
Love Sue. xx
Wednesday, 27 August 2008
The Bridge and Whale watching - Wednesday
Wasn't sure what I'd do today so I went to the visitors centre down on The Rocks to book a few trips. STill couldn't decide so just booked a day trip to the Blue mountains for Friday.
As the centre was near the bridge I decided to stroll up there to take a look at the view but ended going to the Pylon view building which tells you all about the construction of the bridge. It was started in 1924 and opened in 1932 - the workers had no safety harnesses and I read that one man fell into the water and survived - his boots split and ended up around his legs. AMazingly (that word again) ony 16 men died during the construction. Was good to see the harbour from so far up and to watch the walkers on the bridge doing the actual bridge climb
I walked back down to the harbour and met 'Captain Cook' of the cruise tours and started chatting with him - interesting man who knew England, Bristol and even guessed that I came from Newport - spooky. Anyway (I keep using that word as well) I asked him about the whale watching and the next thing I know I was on a boat crossing the harbour heading out to sea to look for whales.
The sea was really choppy but I kept a calm exterior as the boat literally 'jumped' over the waves and people around me were throwing up into the bags provided. I'm not the best where water is concerned but this was quite an exhilarating experience in a perverse sort of way. And worthwhile in the end as we spotted a humpbacked whale and tracked it until we got a relatively good view of it. They are migrating south but August is coming to the end of the migration so the whale trips will finish soon.
Was worn out again by the end of the day so popped into the local Thai restaurant for tea and then back to the hotel to put my feet up.
Maybe a quiet day tomorrow!!
Thanks for all the comments - really love hearing from you all. This leg is much more 'on my own' so good to know I still in touch with the world
Love Sue
As the centre was near the bridge I decided to stroll up there to take a look at the view but ended going to the Pylon view building which tells you all about the construction of the bridge. It was started in 1924 and opened in 1932 - the workers had no safety harnesses and I read that one man fell into the water and survived - his boots split and ended up around his legs. AMazingly (that word again) ony 16 men died during the construction. Was good to see the harbour from so far up and to watch the walkers on the bridge doing the actual bridge climb
I walked back down to the harbour and met 'Captain Cook' of the cruise tours and started chatting with him - interesting man who knew England, Bristol and even guessed that I came from Newport - spooky. Anyway (I keep using that word as well) I asked him about the whale watching and the next thing I know I was on a boat crossing the harbour heading out to sea to look for whales.
The sea was really choppy but I kept a calm exterior as the boat literally 'jumped' over the waves and people around me were throwing up into the bags provided. I'm not the best where water is concerned but this was quite an exhilarating experience in a perverse sort of way. And worthwhile in the end as we spotted a humpbacked whale and tracked it until we got a relatively good view of it. They are migrating south but August is coming to the end of the migration so the whale trips will finish soon.
Was worn out again by the end of the day so popped into the local Thai restaurant for tea and then back to the hotel to put my feet up.
Maybe a quiet day tomorrow!!
Thanks for all the comments - really love hearing from you all. This leg is much more 'on my own' so good to know I still in touch with the world
Love Sue
Queen Victoria Building & Hyde Park
Tuesday - Thought I'd go and investigate the Queen Victoria Building which turned out to be an amzing shopping mall. The interior had all the original windows and architecture and the shops were all in keeping with the style. I know I keep using the word amzing but for Dave and Laura who like their labels, this was a shoppers paradise - Dior Versace Ralph Lauren Jiigsaw Gucci and many many more. There were at least 3 floors of tasteful shops and restaurants, which were great for window shopping - certainly not boring - there was even a grand piano on one of the floors.
Off then to Hyde Park to see the convict barracks and the Anzac war memorial. Sydney seems to have a big affiliation to the UK and LOndon - there are loads of monuments of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert - even streets named after them and many more streets with the same names as London. I even went in to a huge woolworths that sold fresh food (veg etc) - more like an Asda than Woolies. It even has a massive internet cafe where I could do the blog and check mail.
Back at the hotel - picked up my laundry from the chinese laundry down the road and picked up fish and chips for tea.
Off then to Hyde Park to see the convict barracks and the Anzac war memorial. Sydney seems to have a big affiliation to the UK and LOndon - there are loads of monuments of Queen Victoria and Prince Albert - even streets named after them and many more streets with the same names as London. I even went in to a huge woolworths that sold fresh food (veg etc) - more like an Asda than Woolies. It even has a massive internet cafe where I could do the blog and check mail.
Back at the hotel - picked up my laundry from the chinese laundry down the road and picked up fish and chips for tea.
Monday, 25 August 2008
Sydney Opera House & Botanic Gardens
After a good nights sleep I went back to the harbour to do some sight seeing properly. Got on the bus with my cheap rate ticket and was down at the harbour in no time. Listened to an aboriginal man playing his digereedoo. He seemed to be naked except for some white body paint and a strategically placed yellow cloth. I could have posed for a photo with him but there were too many in the crowd to risk entrusting my camera to one. I am getting very trusting though with my camera - the form is - I ask them if they would like me to take a photo of them (the japanese are usually a good bet) and then I ask them to take one of me.
Walked along the circular quay and stopped for lunch at Rossini's - a nice Italian restaurant with views of the Bridge. Had chicken crepes and vegetables which was lovely and far too much for me and then I wandered to the Opera House. It is an amazing structure and the views of the harbour and the bridge are much better close up. I was going to book to have High tea which comes with an opera singer but at 140 dollars (70 pounds) I thought it was a bit OTT.
After the Opera house I strolled through the Botanic gardens next door. As I stood at a small bridge (built in 1819) a big 'bird' flew over and when I looked up I saw that it that it was a fruit bat and the trees were full of them and I mean loads and loads of them in all the surrounding trees. So when you look at the latest photos and wonder what you're looking at - now you know it's bats hanging from the branches.
Suddenly my day was gone and again I had walked my socks off. Time to catch the bus back and have a nice cuppa, put my feet up and watch a bit of TV.
By the way - it's sooooooo goooooood to have a decent cup of tea/coffee with real milk - can get my calcium levels back up.
Love Sue xxxxxxxxxxx
Walked along the circular quay and stopped for lunch at Rossini's - a nice Italian restaurant with views of the Bridge. Had chicken crepes and vegetables which was lovely and far too much for me and then I wandered to the Opera House. It is an amazing structure and the views of the harbour and the bridge are much better close up. I was going to book to have High tea which comes with an opera singer but at 140 dollars (70 pounds) I thought it was a bit OTT.
After the Opera house I strolled through the Botanic gardens next door. As I stood at a small bridge (built in 1819) a big 'bird' flew over and when I looked up I saw that it that it was a fruit bat and the trees were full of them and I mean loads and loads of them in all the surrounding trees. So when you look at the latest photos and wonder what you're looking at - now you know it's bats hanging from the branches.
Suddenly my day was gone and again I had walked my socks off. Time to catch the bus back and have a nice cuppa, put my feet up and watch a bit of TV.
By the way - it's sooooooo goooooood to have a decent cup of tea/coffee with real milk - can get my calcium levels back up.
Love Sue xxxxxxxxxxx
Sunday, 24 August 2008
Hello Sydney
It was a 9 hour flight and arrived at 11.40 OZ time (9hours ahead of UK) As we approached the airstrip I could see the Opera house and the Bridge - they looked smaller than I imagined. The the plane landed and the airstrip was right next to a strip of water and then it crossed over a main road as I could see the cars driving down into an underpass. - Bizarre again!!
The taxi to my hotel was costly and the hotel I booked didn't appear brilliant as a first impression but now I've settled in (and faffed) have decided it will do for the moment - it's clean, not too expensive and is located in a community type location. I got internet access this morning in the library - it cost 1 dollar to join and internet access is free so I'm now a fully fledged member of the community. There's a launderette close by and lots of shops and places to eat. The bus stop is right outside the hotel and I've bought my cheap ticket so I can get around easily - much cheaper than taxis.
Sydney is probably a lot like london and yesterday I walked from the hotel all the way to the harbour where the Opera house and Sydney bridge are. It took me about an hour but I got to get a feel for the place even though my little legs were somewhat tired by the time I got back. There I was in my thin trousers and t-shirt wondering why everyone else had jumpers and their coats on - it was a sunny day but as I walked on I realised how cold it actually was compared to Thailand. I swiftly bought a hooded top at a cost of 3 pounds so a bargain and a life saver.
I also popped into the 4 seasons hotel which looked very grand to see if they had any cheap rooms - I could get a suite that overlooked the harbour sights for 500 dollars (250 pound per night) - Decided to pass
On route I stopped to listen to the Salvation army playing and then saw a statue of Queen Victoria. The Opera house and Bridge are quite a sight and I've explored them today but will tell you about that in my next blog.
Was very tired at the end of the day but had a look at some of the information I picked up - there's loads to see and do but I'll have to plan my days.
Laura - meant to mention that this is shoppers paradise - thousands of shops and lots of designer stuff - very much like London.
That's all for now. I'm sure I won't be bored here - broke but not bored - its definitely London prices here
Love Sue.xx
The taxi to my hotel was costly and the hotel I booked didn't appear brilliant as a first impression but now I've settled in (and faffed) have decided it will do for the moment - it's clean, not too expensive and is located in a community type location. I got internet access this morning in the library - it cost 1 dollar to join and internet access is free so I'm now a fully fledged member of the community. There's a launderette close by and lots of shops and places to eat. The bus stop is right outside the hotel and I've bought my cheap ticket so I can get around easily - much cheaper than taxis.
Sydney is probably a lot like london and yesterday I walked from the hotel all the way to the harbour where the Opera house and Sydney bridge are. It took me about an hour but I got to get a feel for the place even though my little legs were somewhat tired by the time I got back. There I was in my thin trousers and t-shirt wondering why everyone else had jumpers and their coats on - it was a sunny day but as I walked on I realised how cold it actually was compared to Thailand. I swiftly bought a hooded top at a cost of 3 pounds so a bargain and a life saver.
I also popped into the 4 seasons hotel which looked very grand to see if they had any cheap rooms - I could get a suite that overlooked the harbour sights for 500 dollars (250 pound per night) - Decided to pass
On route I stopped to listen to the Salvation army playing and then saw a statue of Queen Victoria. The Opera house and Bridge are quite a sight and I've explored them today but will tell you about that in my next blog.
Was very tired at the end of the day but had a look at some of the information I picked up - there's loads to see and do but I'll have to plan my days.
Laura - meant to mention that this is shoppers paradise - thousands of shops and lots of designer stuff - very much like London.
That's all for now. I'm sure I won't be bored here - broke but not bored - its definitely London prices here
Love Sue.xx
Thursday, 21 August 2008
Bye from from the beach and Thailand
What can I say about my days here - more sun, sand and sea - sorry girls - No sex. Good food though and lots of it and all for 150 bhat which is 3 quid.
Yesterday went on a boat trip round the island - stopped twice for snorkling and swimming and then once for fishing. We had a BBQ on board and even grilled the fish that had been caught by the passengers. We also stopped at a fish farm and wandered in between the 'tanks' along the wooden boards in between. There were turtles and huge other fish - no idea the names and one young lad dipped his hand in the water (having been told not to)and got slightly bitten - I think he was more shocked than hurt.
I even swam in the sea off board the boat - I did have a life jacket on which was 3 sizes too big and I floated that much I couldn't put my legs in the water to swim. I looked like one of those kids in a rubber ring that's about to turn upside down. Everyone found it highly amusing while I was flailing in the water having a minor stress. I was glad to get back to the boat but real chuffed with myself that I'd pushed another of my boundaries.
Today is another lazy day on the beach and a little cloudy but I managed to finish the book I was reading and then I had a pedicure and foot massage from one of the ladies on the beach, so my feet are wonderfully smooth and my toenails beautiful. - all for 300 baht which is around 4.50. May have a Thai massage tomorrow (200 baht)
Saturday will be the long trip back to Bangkok and my flight is at 23.59 on Saturday night.
I may not get to the internet again until I'm in sydney but once I'm there I'm sure get my pics uploaded will be much easier.
That reminds me I'd better log off and book a hotel in Sydney for when I arrive
Over and out from Koh Samed and Thailand
Love Sue
xx
Yesterday went on a boat trip round the island - stopped twice for snorkling and swimming and then once for fishing. We had a BBQ on board and even grilled the fish that had been caught by the passengers. We also stopped at a fish farm and wandered in between the 'tanks' along the wooden boards in between. There were turtles and huge other fish - no idea the names and one young lad dipped his hand in the water (having been told not to)and got slightly bitten - I think he was more shocked than hurt.
I even swam in the sea off board the boat - I did have a life jacket on which was 3 sizes too big and I floated that much I couldn't put my legs in the water to swim. I looked like one of those kids in a rubber ring that's about to turn upside down. Everyone found it highly amusing while I was flailing in the water having a minor stress. I was glad to get back to the boat but real chuffed with myself that I'd pushed another of my boundaries.
Today is another lazy day on the beach and a little cloudy but I managed to finish the book I was reading and then I had a pedicure and foot massage from one of the ladies on the beach, so my feet are wonderfully smooth and my toenails beautiful. - all for 300 baht which is around 4.50. May have a Thai massage tomorrow (200 baht)
Saturday will be the long trip back to Bangkok and my flight is at 23.59 on Saturday night.
I may not get to the internet again until I'm in sydney but once I'm there I'm sure get my pics uploaded will be much easier.
That reminds me I'd better log off and book a hotel in Sydney for when I arrive
Over and out from Koh Samed and Thailand
Love Sue
xx
Sunday, 17 August 2008
Koh Samed Beach
Well it was a long drive from SIngburi to catch the ferry to Koh Samed (5 hours) but at least it was done in the luxury air conditioned van and we did stop and KFC for lunch - a bit of a come down from the food we're used to - I didn't like fast food then and I don't like it now!!
Had to virtually jump across the water to get on to the boat which is a mean feat with 2 bags and a rucksack, but I played the old dear again and someone passed the rucksack over.
Koh Samed is beautiful - white sand beaches and turquoise sea and hot sun. There are lots of 'wildlife' from the sea too - little crabs - jelly fish - lots of dogs (again!!)
Had dinner by moonlight on the beach and the food from the hotel was amazing. Have strolled along the beach in the night which reminded me of Yas in Corfu!!
It is truly nice to relax here - quite a few tourists but apparently not that many compared to the main season so am grateful for that.
May not have much to tell you over the next week as I'll be lying on a beach, reading and soaking up the sun.
Will be going on a boat trip on wednesday so may have some news then.
Internet here is much more expensive than the mainland.
SPeak to you soon
Love SUe xxxxxxxx
Had to virtually jump across the water to get on to the boat which is a mean feat with 2 bags and a rucksack, but I played the old dear again and someone passed the rucksack over.
Koh Samed is beautiful - white sand beaches and turquoise sea and hot sun. There are lots of 'wildlife' from the sea too - little crabs - jelly fish - lots of dogs (again!!)
Had dinner by moonlight on the beach and the food from the hotel was amazing. Have strolled along the beach in the night which reminded me of Yas in Corfu!!
It is truly nice to relax here - quite a few tourists but apparently not that many compared to the main season so am grateful for that.
May not have much to tell you over the next week as I'll be lying on a beach, reading and soaking up the sun.
Will be going on a boat trip on wednesday so may have some news then.
Internet here is much more expensive than the mainland.
SPeak to you soon
Love SUe xxxxxxxx
Friday, 15 August 2008
Ready for the beach
Had a nice meal out on Wednesday - BBQ style again and there was a chinese theatre playing outside in the street. At first we thought there was a running commentary with the players - it was really loud and all in Thai but discovered that at the other end of the street was an auction going on - we couldn't actually hear anything of the theatre just the sound of the auction - nice costumes though!!
Last 2 days have been teaching and we've been able to plan the lessons which makes life a lot easier. The kids are so well behaved and look lovely in their uniform of the day
Monday - The teachers and children wear the Kings T shirt (well not his personal t-shirt - one with his emblem)
Tuesday - They wear pink t-shirts
Wednesday - they wear red t-shirts
Thursday - They all turn out in their scouts uniforms
Friday - is Traditional Thai dress
I have no idea when they get to wear their actual school uniform - all a mystery!!
On Friday there were educational department people from Bangkok at the school and they wanted to watch us teaching!! We were told that they'd come to the lesson after lunch but then turned up unannounced to our Grade 2 lesson - at least we had the lesson planned so we looked quite professional and I got the kids to sing a song to them too so they were well impressed !
Today is a free day and I've been trying to find an internet cafe where the speed is OK and I can upload more photos but the 1st cafe was as slow as a slow thing and this cafe is fast but I can't get the camera to connect so I'm afraid you're gonna have to wait for more photos.
Off to the Beach - Koh Samet island - tomorrow for the last week in Thailand. It's been quite hot here the last couple of days though we do get massive downpours in the evenings sometimes. I hope the beach is fine.
Signing out now for a few days
Have fun!!
Love Sue. xx
Last 2 days have been teaching and we've been able to plan the lessons which makes life a lot easier. The kids are so well behaved and look lovely in their uniform of the day
Monday - The teachers and children wear the Kings T shirt (well not his personal t-shirt - one with his emblem)
Tuesday - They wear pink t-shirts
Wednesday - they wear red t-shirts
Thursday - They all turn out in their scouts uniforms
Friday - is Traditional Thai dress
I have no idea when they get to wear their actual school uniform - all a mystery!!
On Friday there were educational department people from Bangkok at the school and they wanted to watch us teaching!! We were told that they'd come to the lesson after lunch but then turned up unannounced to our Grade 2 lesson - at least we had the lesson planned so we looked quite professional and I got the kids to sing a song to them too so they were well impressed !
Today is a free day and I've been trying to find an internet cafe where the speed is OK and I can upload more photos but the 1st cafe was as slow as a slow thing and this cafe is fast but I can't get the camera to connect so I'm afraid you're gonna have to wait for more photos.
Off to the Beach - Koh Samet island - tomorrow for the last week in Thailand. It's been quite hot here the last couple of days though we do get massive downpours in the evenings sometimes. I hope the beach is fine.
Signing out now for a few days
Have fun!!
Love Sue. xx
Wednesday, 13 August 2008
One more day at orphanage
Today we spent another day at the orphanage though it was very short. The drive there is about an hour by the time we pick up other volunteers.
Arrived at 10, taught for an hour at 10.30, the children then have their lunch at 11.30, we have ours at 12 and then today is a short day because a lot of the volunteers want to go swimming.
It's a very hit and miss affair this teaching as the volunteers come and go so sometimes there is no consistency - you have no idea of what's been taught. I came away today wanting to get them organised!!!!! There's such an opportunity here to make these kids lives so much better.
I decided to use the opportunity to catch up with the internet as I'll be on a beach all next week so plenty of time for swimming.
I'm off tonight for a meal with all the other volunteers which will be nice as it's very quiet at the house with only a small bar and nothing else around
Not much to say today as I updated yesterday but I'm sure I'll have some news for you soon
Love Sue. xxx
Arrived at 10, taught for an hour at 10.30, the children then have their lunch at 11.30, we have ours at 12 and then today is a short day because a lot of the volunteers want to go swimming.
It's a very hit and miss affair this teaching as the volunteers come and go so sometimes there is no consistency - you have no idea of what's been taught. I came away today wanting to get them organised!!!!! There's such an opportunity here to make these kids lives so much better.
I decided to use the opportunity to catch up with the internet as I'll be on a beach all next week so plenty of time for swimming.
I'm off tonight for a meal with all the other volunteers which will be nice as it's very quiet at the house with only a small bar and nothing else around
Not much to say today as I updated yesterday but I'm sure I'll have some news for you soon
Love Sue. xxx
Tuesday, 12 August 2008
Monday - Teaching
Monday and first day of teaching at local school of 115 pupils. The 4 of us stayed together as I'm the only one with any experience (you got to laugh). We taught class 6 (11 year olds) for 1 hour and then class 2/3 (7 year olds) for another hour. AFter that it was lunch at 11.30 with enough food to feed the 5000 and then an early finish as it's the Queens birthday on Tuesday and they need to get ready for celebrations. Before we left the principal asked if we'd like to see a DVD of the King's 60th anniversary and we politely said 'Yes' - BIG mistake - 2 hours later having watched the king meet foreign dignatories and then looked at 100 boats being majestically rowedup the river and the DVD was all in Thai, it was enough so when he said ;Have you seen enough' we all raced for the door.
To top it all - we discovered that there is no school on Tuesday (as it's the Queen's birthday) and none on Wednesday as there's a teachers 'in service' so of the 5 days of teaching we'll only get to teach 3.
Anyway we asked to go to the orphanage for the 2 days - it has nearly 200 children who sleep in rooms - 70 to each and after the volunteers go home and the monks retire, there is no supervision.
That's where I've been today and we were all pleasantly surprised to find that the children are well dressed, well fed and really clean. We played games with them all day and it was a great experience though I'm fair knackered now.
We'll be there again tomorrow but I'm not sure when I'll next get to the internet.
We go to Koh Samet on Sunday but I'll try and update the blog before then
Love to all
Sue xxxx
To top it all - we discovered that there is no school on Tuesday (as it's the Queen's birthday) and none on Wednesday as there's a teachers 'in service' so of the 5 days of teaching we'll only get to teach 3.
Anyway we asked to go to the orphanage for the 2 days - it has nearly 200 children who sleep in rooms - 70 to each and after the volunteers go home and the monks retire, there is no supervision.
That's where I've been today and we were all pleasantly surprised to find that the children are well dressed, well fed and really clean. We played games with them all day and it was a great experience though I'm fair knackered now.
We'll be there again tomorrow but I'm not sure when I'll next get to the internet.
We go to Koh Samet on Sunday but I'll try and update the blog before then
Love to all
Sue xxxx
Saturday, 9 August 2008
Thursday/Friday - Spa Hotel
After the sparcity of the monestary, we went to a spa hotel for an overnight stay. Arrived at noon and had lunch then took a 2 hour boat ride (should have only been one hour) up the river. We saw lots of local Thai homes, lovely foliage and lotus flowers floating in the river and people just going about their daily lives. The river was lined with lots more temples too though on a smaller scale - it's amzing how many of these 'creations' are around.
Spent an hour at the pool and then half hour in the gym. Dinner was at 7 and then we drank in the bare and chatted till late (11 - which is late for us)
It was nice to have a little luxury again and to have a nice lie in on Friday.
After breakfast we strolled around the grounds and then left to see a pottery where they make hand painted china, then on to see a 100 year old market which was much different to the other ones we'd been too. Lastly we went to a zoo full of lions, tigers, black panthers living in mixed cages - I didn't like this zoo as they had orang utangs dressed up and he animals just didn't look 'happy'
Week 2 is nearly over and next week will be spent teaching in a local school.
Speak again soon
Lovc Sue xxxxxxxxxx
Spent an hour at the pool and then half hour in the gym. Dinner was at 7 and then we drank in the bare and chatted till late (11 - which is late for us)
It was nice to have a little luxury again and to have a nice lie in on Friday.
After breakfast we strolled around the grounds and then left to see a pottery where they make hand painted china, then on to see a 100 year old market which was much different to the other ones we'd been too. Lastly we went to a zoo full of lions, tigers, black panthers living in mixed cages - I didn't like this zoo as they had orang utangs dressed up and he animals just didn't look 'happy'
Week 2 is nearly over and next week will be spent teaching in a local school.
Speak again soon
Lovc Sue xxxxxxxxxx
Life at the monestary
Arrived at the monestary at11 on Wednesday and first we 'organised'our room ready for sleep and we changed into our appropriate dress for the monks- white top and trousers At 12 we had lunch which was some of the food that the monks had collected from the locals earlier in the morning. It was the last meal of the day a the monks do not eat after midday and before dawn.
At 1pm we had our 1st lesson in Buddhism and learned how to meditate both sitting and walking (not at the same time though) - must admit you do feel quite good after switching off for 30 minutes.
There were loads of dogs and puppies at there and I spent loads of time just playing with them and taking lots of pics.
The rest of the afternoon was our freetime so we wandered down to the local town and I finally managed to post my painting back home and catch up on the internet - you should find more photos under the 'Global Thailand folder now. Found a nice coffee shop and then back to base stopping at the local shop to pick up some provisions for the night.
At 7pm we joined the monks in chanting and meditation which lasted for an hour and a half and then we should have gone to bed at8.30 but we snook out to the local shop for a beer and a chat. In bed by 10.30 and spent a fitful night trying to find a comfortable position on the hard floor. At least we had the mossie coils which reduced the amount of bites and the fans kept us cool
Vim woke us at 4.50 am for us to join the monks in their daily round collecting the food from the locals. The monks carried the huge tureens for the rice and we (the women) carried the baskets to collect the extra dishes of hot food which the locals put in plastic food bags. Each house/shop put a spoonful of ric in the tureen and placed the hot food/biscuits/fruit/water on a plate which the monks handed to Peter - the only man in our group - who then placed it in our baskets. Anothe man followed behing with his barrow to take the food from us once the baskets got full - there was so much food and they did this everyday, now considering they only eat once a day!! I haven't worked out where all the food goes butVim reckons that if you're poor and hungry you can just turn up at the monestary and they'll feed you.
I am interested in the Buddhist way of life but I have lots of unanswered questions which was difficult to resolve as our guide doesn't have the best grasp of the english language and my Thai is even more lacking.
Wim made a fruit salad for uswhen we got back which turned out to be more spicy vegetables with garlic and I really couldn't face these at 7.30 in the morning.
Breakfast was at 9 and the masses of food we'd collected was served up.
After breakfast we swept the huge courtyard before giving alms to the head monk's son (another monk) and saying farewell. He surprised us by giving each of us pendant for using in times of 'stress' for meditation. He was a truly gorgeous looking monk with an infectious smile - it would be a shame if he remains a monk forever - such a waste!!
In Thailand all men have to do 3 months as a monk sometime between the age of 18 and 25, they can then choose to return to a normal way of life or remain in the monestary for as long as they are 'happy' It's a bit like conscription with a better message.
Anyway I enjoyed the monastic experience -bit of a change tomorrow
Love Sue. xx
At 1pm we had our 1st lesson in Buddhism and learned how to meditate both sitting and walking (not at the same time though) - must admit you do feel quite good after switching off for 30 minutes.
There were loads of dogs and puppies at there and I spent loads of time just playing with them and taking lots of pics.
The rest of the afternoon was our freetime so we wandered down to the local town and I finally managed to post my painting back home and catch up on the internet - you should find more photos under the 'Global Thailand folder now. Found a nice coffee shop and then back to base stopping at the local shop to pick up some provisions for the night.
At 7pm we joined the monks in chanting and meditation which lasted for an hour and a half and then we should have gone to bed at8.30 but we snook out to the local shop for a beer and a chat. In bed by 10.30 and spent a fitful night trying to find a comfortable position on the hard floor. At least we had the mossie coils which reduced the amount of bites and the fans kept us cool
Vim woke us at 4.50 am for us to join the monks in their daily round collecting the food from the locals. The monks carried the huge tureens for the rice and we (the women) carried the baskets to collect the extra dishes of hot food which the locals put in plastic food bags. Each house/shop put a spoonful of ric in the tureen and placed the hot food/biscuits/fruit/water on a plate which the monks handed to Peter - the only man in our group - who then placed it in our baskets. Anothe man followed behing with his barrow to take the food from us once the baskets got full - there was so much food and they did this everyday, now considering they only eat once a day!! I haven't worked out where all the food goes butVim reckons that if you're poor and hungry you can just turn up at the monestary and they'll feed you.
I am interested in the Buddhist way of life but I have lots of unanswered questions which was difficult to resolve as our guide doesn't have the best grasp of the english language and my Thai is even more lacking.
Wim made a fruit salad for uswhen we got back which turned out to be more spicy vegetables with garlic and I really couldn't face these at 7.30 in the morning.
Breakfast was at 9 and the masses of food we'd collected was served up.
After breakfast we swept the huge courtyard before giving alms to the head monk's son (another monk) and saying farewell. He surprised us by giving each of us pendant for using in times of 'stress' for meditation. He was a truly gorgeous looking monk with an infectious smile - it would be a shame if he remains a monk forever - such a waste!!
In Thailand all men have to do 3 months as a monk sometime between the age of 18 and 25, they can then choose to return to a normal way of life or remain in the monestary for as long as they are 'happy' It's a bit like conscription with a better message.
Anyway I enjoyed the monastic experience -bit of a change tomorrow
Love Sue. xx
Wednesday, 6 August 2008
Tuesday - Monks
Up at 5.30 to give alms to the local monks who didn't turn up until 6.20!! We gave them rice and something hot (curry?) plus biscuits and water, then they blessed us and moved on to the next house.
At 10.30, more monks came to the eco house for their lunch - they sat opposite us and we had to hand them each of the dishes of food - I did struggle with the fact that the women cannot hand anything to them directly. We have to place it on their cloth and then they take it ----Cheek!
We left them to eat their lunch then came back to clear everything away and again they blessed us and went on their way- I am so very holy now!
The next 2 days are going to be very different as they'll be spent at a monestary in the forest.
We had a trial run this afternoon as we visited the monestary where we'll stay on Wednesday night. The rooms are completely bare with a marble floor and a couple of fans on the walls. We'll have a rafia mat to sleep on with one blanket and a tiny pillow. you'll have to wait for the update on how I get on with life in a Buddhist temple!!
Love you
Sue.xx
At 10.30, more monks came to the eco house for their lunch - they sat opposite us and we had to hand them each of the dishes of food - I did struggle with the fact that the women cannot hand anything to them directly. We have to place it on their cloth and then they take it ----Cheek!
We left them to eat their lunch then came back to clear everything away and again they blessed us and went on their way- I am so very holy now!
The next 2 days are going to be very different as they'll be spent at a monestary in the forest.
We had a trial run this afternoon as we visited the monestary where we'll stay on Wednesday night. The rooms are completely bare with a marble floor and a couple of fans on the walls. We'll have a rafia mat to sleep on with one blanket and a tiny pillow. you'll have to wait for the update on how I get on with life in a Buddhist temple!!
Love you
Sue.xx
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