TravellinMatt

Ahhh tropical paradise! Originally when we planned Cairns as the longest leg of the trip outside of Melbourne I had some reservations. Specifically I wasn't sure if it would be too hot/muggy this time of the year or if it would rain the entire time, or it would end up being a complete tropical tourist trap up here. I'm happy to report that all doubts have been rendered moot and I'm quite happy that we chose to hit this area instead of the original plan (Brisbane/Gold Coast). The original itinerary for Cairns was to travel north to the towns of Port Douglas and Cape Tribulation. However the rental car rep told us about this place to the south called Mission Beach. We've been trying to do shit on the fly as much as possible so instead ... read more

Today was the first day that this holiday really took off. Nothing against the first couple of days here of course, it's just that I'm not really sure any place I've visited can hold a candle to the sheer beauty and magnitude of the Great Ocean Road and 12 Apostles National Park. Ali and I got off to a somewhat late start today -- which I guess shouldn't surprise anyone at this stage given present company. We had a noon call time to pick up the rental car that Ali's lovely flat-mate, Julie Z, had booked for us using her travel agency contacts. Luckily we were able to make up some time along the way because we ended up needing every last minute of exploration time on our afternoon adventure. Started off down the highway in ... read more

Ahhh after 22+ hours of flying and waiting in airports I'm finally here. First 15 hour flight went smoother than expected; I actually over-packed in hindsight. Spent the majority of the flight reading, playing puzzles, sleeping and listening to some comedy on the iPhone. Went pretty quick and painless all things considered. Upon arrival we got settled at Ali's pad where I will be spending the next few nights before we head off to Tasmania. Ali's place is pretty chill - he's got super nice roommates (flat mates) and his apartment is located in a bustling part of town. After spending a few minutes getting settled and changing out of my foul-smelling airline clothes we ventured out for some food and sights. I was warned previously that food and drink here is super expensive -- and ... read more