After my traveling through beautiful sunshine weather, exciting new cities, and fabulous beaches, it was bittersweet to head back to Melbourne. Thankfully I had three days of tours already planned to keep me busy and give my holiday a final kick. On Monday, I toured the Great Ocean Road. On Tuesday, I went to Philip Island and watched the Penguin Parade. On Wednesday, I took a tour of the Yarra Valley, riding Puffing Billy, going to a winery for a wine tasting, and spending time at Healesville Sanctuary.
I have to say I love Melbourne. It is a fantastic city full of wonderful things to see, do, and taste (I'm sure I have hinted at this before). Since I had spent a bit of time in the city I chose these tours to get me out of the city and exploring the more popular (but out of the way) regions of Victoria/Melbourne. Unfortunately for me, Melbourne decided to throw at me some classic Melbourne type weather. Monday was a day on the coast, and it was the coldest day of the year, getting to about 14 degrees (C). That's very bitter when with the wind and rain coming off of the ocean and your in flip flops, ripped crops, and a button up shirt without a coat or any way of protecting yourself against the elements. I was quite upset with Melbourne that day. There were beautiful sights, like the 12 Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge, that if I was properly dressed (or the weather was cooperating) I would have stayed for much longer and explored. However, most of Monday was spent running out of the van, snapping one or two shots, and dashing back as quickly as I could.
Tuesday was an improvement. The weather wasn't much better but since I had a later pick up time I made a stop at Queen Victoria Market to find a scarf and a hot coffee to get me started on a warm note. Driving around Philip Island I got to see the famous motorcycle race track, the Nobbies (home to fur seals, little penguins, and great white sharks), and the day ended with the penguin parade. Every night, hundreds of little penguins (about a foot tall and only 2 pounds) make their way from the ocean to their burrow in the side of the land. It is the third largest attraction in Australia, trailing Sydney and the Great Barrier Reef. You aren't allowed to take picture of the penguins because the flash can disorient them and they may not be able to find their way back to their home. As a lover of animals, I was okay with this rule. If you're ever in Victoria, make time for this. The penguins are so adorable, and they make the craziest noises! After they come up on the beach you can walk around the boardwalk and get an extremely close view of the penguins finding their way home. These guys were too cute, falling, tripping, and running to catch up with their mates.
Wednesday the weather was perfect Autumn weather. It almost felt like an October day. Beautiful sunshine and crisp air made traveling on Puffing Billy, a historical steam engine, relaxing and enjoyable. Although I'm not a wine drinker, the lunch at the winery was absolutely delicious. Since I was traveling on a tour, there were several other visitors on my bus. Today it was an older crowd and by the time we arrived at Healesville my patience for waiting and explaining was spent. It was the basic kangaroos, koalas, emus etc., all of which I had seen before (multiple times). Healesvilles does, however, have a platypus and that made the trip a lot better. I have to say, they are the strangest looking creatures ever. Oh and did you know an animal is classified a marsupial not just because it has a pouch but because it has a non-placenta birth. I found that interesting, although after the tour guide said "placenta" for the third time I became more grossed out than anything.
Thursday was my last day on holiday and I spent an enjoying the sights, sounds, and tastes of the Queen Victoria Market. It is the largest open air market and holds everything you can think of-and most things at a reasonable price (but you can always talk them down). I finished up my gift shopping, indulged in some classic Aussie foods, and slowly made my way back to where my holiday started, Southern Cross Station.
Going on holiday in Australia can mean so many things. People do everything from jumping from hostel to hostel, to living on couches, to sleeping in tents on beaches. I have heard of other people taking months off from work, renting a RV and driving wherever the highway takes them. There is so much to see and do in this expansive country, and it's all worth taking a look.
I'm heading into my last week in Australia. There will probably be a few posts this week-my thoughts on being a female traveling on her own, frequently asked questions, and my reflections from this journey.
Sunday, April 22, 2012
Monday, April 16, 2012
Hillsong
My Easter Holiday was centered on being at Hillsong for Easter weekend. They have branches in and around Sydney and Brisbane so I knew I would be aiming for those two cities. I didn't want to spend a whole week in Sydney, not because it isn't fabulous (see Sydney's post to see that it is), but because I wanted to get to as many places in the little time that I had. So I decided on the Brisbane branch. Brisbane was a city I wanted to see and I was going to the Australian Zoo so it all just came together nicely.
I have to say, this was the first time I have ever been nervous to go to church. Now I have been nervous at church before but it was because I was reading on stage or attempting to play the banjo, I have never been nervous to actually attend church. I have been lucky enough to be raised in the same church for my whole life so that place really just feels like home. A home I am missing very much.
On a tangential note: When people ask me if I am religious (in the awkward way that they do) I usually respond with something along the lines of, "Yes I was raised in the church" and some further explanation. It turns out Australians aren't familiar with that phrase and one or two actually thought I was raised living inside a church building. Needless to say I have stopped using that phrase.
Back to Hillsong.
On Good Friday morning I took a taxi and made my way to church. Yes, I said morning. Everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, is closed on Good Friday, so I guess that's how they are able to hold a morning service on a week day and still have high attendance.
I was expecting something huge and completely intimidating. I was actually picturing something like the People's Church in Nashville. Large campus. Large parking lot. But it's actually quite unassuming. The parking lot is pretty expansive but the church is tucked away behind a tire store. There's no huge sign, just a tiny addition to the street sign post that points you in the direction. If you didn't know it was there, you would drive right past it. It's building is mostly hidden and surrounded by trees so even though I'm sure the campus is very large, you are only exposed to the front. The foyer is mostly outside and has a small coffee stand that serves more than coffee but treats of all kinds. Looking past the main doors to the right you can see the youth part of the building (which I did not explore). From the outside you can walk into their Discovery Center, a place for guests and new members to have coffee, biscuits, and talk to members of the church. Inside is a small standing area that leads into the auditorium.
I was able to overcome my anxiety of large groups of people I don't know and introduce myself to a greeter, James, who introduced me to Celeste, who would be my church buddy. She warned me that she sits pretty close to the front and I said I didn't mind. What she meant was that she sits in the front row of the center column of chairs. I was such a geek. I was so excited to have such a great seat! Still nervous though.
The service was fantastic. Nothing over the top. Even though I didn't know the worship songs they chose, it was so easy to catch on and join in. 11,000 people call Brisbane Hillsong their home church. 11,000. But they work hard to make it more personal. They cover the back 7 or 8 rows of seating and use the ushers to direct people to empty spaces so everyone is next to someone. It didn't feel like a megachurch. It could have been a show. But it wasn't. It was about the message. Pastor Brian Houston gave the message and all of the branches were linked in and watching. It's hard to picture thousands of people all worshiping at the same time and taking part in the same message. Talk about being part of a body of Christ- you truly feel a part of something greater, especially when you see the packed stadium of people at the Hills branch in Sydney.
Easter Sunday was another great service. I met more kind people who were keen to make sure I had the best experience. My buddies for the day even gave me a ride home back to the hostel, saving me my cab fare. They mentioned that it's a struggle to make new people feel welcome, especially when people don't fill out a welcome card or approach everyone, but it's their mission and passion to reach out and make sure everyone can call Hillsong home. I got to hear from several different pastors on Easter Sunday morning as they tag teamed from branch to branch. The talent at that church extends beyond music; they have many godly leaders on their team preaching the word in an honest way.
They are opening a branch in Melbourne. I already love Melbourne, but with this addition, I would seriously consider making Melbourne home (if I didn't think my family would kill me ;)). I'm amazed that a church that started out in one city, in a country that doesn't fancy religion, has grown to include 2 Brisbane branches, 2 Sydney branches, 12 extension branches meeting all across Sydney suburbs, and a new branch opening in Melbourne. One church. It's truly amazing what God can do.
I have to say, this was the first time I have ever been nervous to go to church. Now I have been nervous at church before but it was because I was reading on stage or attempting to play the banjo, I have never been nervous to actually attend church. I have been lucky enough to be raised in the same church for my whole life so that place really just feels like home. A home I am missing very much.
On a tangential note: When people ask me if I am religious (in the awkward way that they do) I usually respond with something along the lines of, "Yes I was raised in the church" and some further explanation. It turns out Australians aren't familiar with that phrase and one or two actually thought I was raised living inside a church building. Needless to say I have stopped using that phrase.
Back to Hillsong.
On Good Friday morning I took a taxi and made my way to church. Yes, I said morning. Everything, and I mean EVERYTHING, is closed on Good Friday, so I guess that's how they are able to hold a morning service on a week day and still have high attendance.
I was expecting something huge and completely intimidating. I was actually picturing something like the People's Church in Nashville. Large campus. Large parking lot. But it's actually quite unassuming. The parking lot is pretty expansive but the church is tucked away behind a tire store. There's no huge sign, just a tiny addition to the street sign post that points you in the direction. If you didn't know it was there, you would drive right past it. It's building is mostly hidden and surrounded by trees so even though I'm sure the campus is very large, you are only exposed to the front. The foyer is mostly outside and has a small coffee stand that serves more than coffee but treats of all kinds. Looking past the main doors to the right you can see the youth part of the building (which I did not explore). From the outside you can walk into their Discovery Center, a place for guests and new members to have coffee, biscuits, and talk to members of the church. Inside is a small standing area that leads into the auditorium.
I was able to overcome my anxiety of large groups of people I don't know and introduce myself to a greeter, James, who introduced me to Celeste, who would be my church buddy. She warned me that she sits pretty close to the front and I said I didn't mind. What she meant was that she sits in the front row of the center column of chairs. I was such a geek. I was so excited to have such a great seat! Still nervous though.
The service was fantastic. Nothing over the top. Even though I didn't know the worship songs they chose, it was so easy to catch on and join in. 11,000 people call Brisbane Hillsong their home church. 11,000. But they work hard to make it more personal. They cover the back 7 or 8 rows of seating and use the ushers to direct people to empty spaces so everyone is next to someone. It didn't feel like a megachurch. It could have been a show. But it wasn't. It was about the message. Pastor Brian Houston gave the message and all of the branches were linked in and watching. It's hard to picture thousands of people all worshiping at the same time and taking part in the same message. Talk about being part of a body of Christ- you truly feel a part of something greater, especially when you see the packed stadium of people at the Hills branch in Sydney.
Easter Sunday was another great service. I met more kind people who were keen to make sure I had the best experience. My buddies for the day even gave me a ride home back to the hostel, saving me my cab fare. They mentioned that it's a struggle to make new people feel welcome, especially when people don't fill out a welcome card or approach everyone, but it's their mission and passion to reach out and make sure everyone can call Hillsong home. I got to hear from several different pastors on Easter Sunday morning as they tag teamed from branch to branch. The talent at that church extends beyond music; they have many godly leaders on their team preaching the word in an honest way.
They are opening a branch in Melbourne. I already love Melbourne, but with this addition, I would seriously consider making Melbourne home (if I didn't think my family would kill me ;)). I'm amazed that a church that started out in one city, in a country that doesn't fancy religion, has grown to include 2 Brisbane branches, 2 Sydney branches, 12 extension branches meeting all across Sydney suburbs, and a new branch opening in Melbourne. One church. It's truly amazing what God can do.
Sunday, April 8, 2012
The Brizzy B
Disclaimer: No one calls it that. I made it up.
Now I don't know if it was because I was coming from Sydney and I was comparing it in my mind or if it was because my hostel wasn't in an ideal location or what but Brisbane did not strike my fancy quite like some of the other places I have been to.
I hopped off my 14 hour train ride (okay I didn't exactly hop-more like trudged) and made my way to my hostel. It was quite early in the morning and once again I knew I wouldn't be able to check into my room right away. My plan was to immediately go to the Australian Zoo. Well, by the time I was checked in, my luggage stored, and I had made myself presentable it was too late to in get on the deal the hostel offered. So to plan B, walk around the city finding all of the wonderful things it has in store.
It was both a long and short walk. I found the city's botanical gardens and it was a beautiful walk that took you along the edge of the Brisbane River. While the Sydney gardens had bats (did I say that lat time? Oh well there are bats in Sydney's gardens) the Brisbane Botantical Gardens had large iguanas that kind of snuck up on you. There were several times when I almost abruptly ended an iguanas tanning time because I was so busy looking up and around and through my camera lens I didn't notice him until the last minute. Through the gardens I made my way to South Bank which is close to one of their universities. South Bank is defintiely one of the city's highlights. Besides it giant ferris wheel, access to ferry's, and a multitude of dining options, it plays host to the city's beach. Yup, that's right. In the middle of traffic and high rises Brisbane put a beach and it's really nice. The day I went it was very crowded and being one of the major tourist spots and what looked like a mini-vacation spot for local moms, I doubt that it ever sees a slow day (especially when it's close to 30 degrees out). Now I say the walk was both long and short because in terms of distance, and distance compared with what I walked in Sydney, I didn't walk a very long way. However, as mentioned before my bag weighs quite a bit, my shoes are not made for walking, and it was very hot that day. Making my way back through the Botancial Gardens I sat down on a bench and seriously considered making it my permanent residence. I did manage to make it back to my hostel where I checked into my room and took a nap.
The next day was Good Friday where I spent the morning at Hillsong (they are getting their own post) and then decided I needed a vacation from my vacation. It was a good day to do so because although Aussie's aren't particularly religious and most love Easter for the chocolate, they close everything down Easter weekend. Not even the major grocery store was open on Good Friday. Your best bet was 7Eleven. After church, I parked myself by the hostels pool and made my goal to get the tan that I should have after living in Australia for 3 months.
Saturday I made my way to the Australian Zoo. I have to say, seeing a 12 foot croc launch itself out of the water on tv is one thing, but to see it in person is something else. During the feeding shows you could hear the jaws clamp down on the pig leg it had been given. It echoed. I was lucky enough to have Terri, Bindi, and Bob Irwin as the hosts of the Wildlife Warrior show. Apparently you might see Terri or Binid but rarely all the three. I got to feed an elephant which was a slobbery experience. The Crocoseum, which holds the main show, is a building dedicated to wildlife education and now it also holds a Steve Irwin memorial. There were about 15 cases on one wall that each held two khaki button up shirts with messages written all over from fans as well as 8 completely full condolences books. It was overwhelming. Taking all that in and then watching his family talk about his dream and continue on his life work was both tragic and uplifting. It's hard not to feel bad for a family that lost something so dear to them, but you can tell that working with the park and doing what he did has brought a lot of healing. Overall, the park is an expensive trip, but if you pack your own lunch you can keep the costs down because all of the shows are free.
Easter Sunday was spent at Hillsong, wandering the city one last time (mostly in search of lunch) and then making my way to the airport. I wasn't planning on spending over 20 hours in a train when a plane can take me to Melbourne in 2 1/2 hours.
Next up: Hillsong and why that church is worth moving to Australia.
Now I don't know if it was because I was coming from Sydney and I was comparing it in my mind or if it was because my hostel wasn't in an ideal location or what but Brisbane did not strike my fancy quite like some of the other places I have been to.
I hopped off my 14 hour train ride (okay I didn't exactly hop-more like trudged) and made my way to my hostel. It was quite early in the morning and once again I knew I wouldn't be able to check into my room right away. My plan was to immediately go to the Australian Zoo. Well, by the time I was checked in, my luggage stored, and I had made myself presentable it was too late to in get on the deal the hostel offered. So to plan B, walk around the city finding all of the wonderful things it has in store.
It was both a long and short walk. I found the city's botanical gardens and it was a beautiful walk that took you along the edge of the Brisbane River. While the Sydney gardens had bats (did I say that lat time? Oh well there are bats in Sydney's gardens) the Brisbane Botantical Gardens had large iguanas that kind of snuck up on you. There were several times when I almost abruptly ended an iguanas tanning time because I was so busy looking up and around and through my camera lens I didn't notice him until the last minute. Through the gardens I made my way to South Bank which is close to one of their universities. South Bank is defintiely one of the city's highlights. Besides it giant ferris wheel, access to ferry's, and a multitude of dining options, it plays host to the city's beach. Yup, that's right. In the middle of traffic and high rises Brisbane put a beach and it's really nice. The day I went it was very crowded and being one of the major tourist spots and what looked like a mini-vacation spot for local moms, I doubt that it ever sees a slow day (especially when it's close to 30 degrees out). Now I say the walk was both long and short because in terms of distance, and distance compared with what I walked in Sydney, I didn't walk a very long way. However, as mentioned before my bag weighs quite a bit, my shoes are not made for walking, and it was very hot that day. Making my way back through the Botancial Gardens I sat down on a bench and seriously considered making it my permanent residence. I did manage to make it back to my hostel where I checked into my room and took a nap.
The next day was Good Friday where I spent the morning at Hillsong (they are getting their own post) and then decided I needed a vacation from my vacation. It was a good day to do so because although Aussie's aren't particularly religious and most love Easter for the chocolate, they close everything down Easter weekend. Not even the major grocery store was open on Good Friday. Your best bet was 7Eleven. After church, I parked myself by the hostels pool and made my goal to get the tan that I should have after living in Australia for 3 months.
Saturday I made my way to the Australian Zoo. I have to say, seeing a 12 foot croc launch itself out of the water on tv is one thing, but to see it in person is something else. During the feeding shows you could hear the jaws clamp down on the pig leg it had been given. It echoed. I was lucky enough to have Terri, Bindi, and Bob Irwin as the hosts of the Wildlife Warrior show. Apparently you might see Terri or Binid but rarely all the three. I got to feed an elephant which was a slobbery experience. The Crocoseum, which holds the main show, is a building dedicated to wildlife education and now it also holds a Steve Irwin memorial. There were about 15 cases on one wall that each held two khaki button up shirts with messages written all over from fans as well as 8 completely full condolences books. It was overwhelming. Taking all that in and then watching his family talk about his dream and continue on his life work was both tragic and uplifting. It's hard not to feel bad for a family that lost something so dear to them, but you can tell that working with the park and doing what he did has brought a lot of healing. Overall, the park is an expensive trip, but if you pack your own lunch you can keep the costs down because all of the shows are free.
Easter Sunday was spent at Hillsong, wandering the city one last time (mostly in search of lunch) and then making my way to the airport. I wasn't planning on spending over 20 hours in a train when a plane can take me to Melbourne in 2 1/2 hours.
Next up: Hillsong and why that church is worth moving to Australia.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
P. Sherman 42 Walaby Way, Sydney
After two days in Bondi, I left the my wonderful hostesses and hopped on a train into the city. (Another reason to live in Bondi, you're not in the city but you're only a quick train ride away from it.) Luckily I was able to check into my hostel early so after putting my stuff down I examined a map and made out my plan. My hostel happened to be st the end of a street that pretty much led to everything so I figured I would start walking down that and see where I ended up. I could have taken a bus or a taxi but walking meant I saved money, got in some exercise, and saw not only the tourist hot spots but everything else in between. Everything that makes Sydney, Sydney. I would recommend this to anyone Exploring a new city but what I would also recommend is to wear good shoes, and not carry a 15 pound bag. For the last three days I have struggled to make it back to my hostel because I am so worn out. My Rainbow flip flops were not made for long walking excursions, or maybe they were but that was three years ago. My lower back was screaming at me and cursing my wonderful, but heavy camera. So with my Kindle, wallet, camera, and various papers in my bag my weary feet carried me through the city.
When I first arrived it was hard to believe I was in Sydney. Being in the center of it doesn't feel particularly special. It was kind of like being in Melbourne. So I wasn't as excited as I probably should have been, until I saw the Sydney Opera House. When I started walking I knew that Circular Quay (pronounced "key") would be my destination and that I wanted to see this iconic place. It's not that I didn't know what it looked like, everyone knows what it looks like, but its one of those things that you have to do so you can say, "I've been there." As I made my way through The Rocks, a historical neighborhood of Sydney, I spotted the opera house through some trees in the distance. My pace quickened and I immediately began searching for a better view, a more open space. Once I did I just couldn't believe I was actually standing there. That's when Sydney became real to me. Standing there looking at the Sydney Opera House completely amazed by this stunning building sitting on the edge of the water.
I had been going back and forth about whether or not to buy a ferry pass, deciding if it was worth the money. Seeing the opera house made the decision for me. I just had to get a better look at this place. From the water the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Sydney Opera House sit perfectly together. I kept taking pictures, pretty much the same one, over and over again. It's features the Sydney skyline with two of its most beloved treasures.
Once I finally comprehended that I was in Sydney Australia the day seemed a lot shorter. I felt like I hadn't given myself enough time to take everything in. I was singing Wicked's "One Short Day" in my head. In my quick day and a half in Sydney I experienced Pitt Street Mall, the Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park, the Domain, the Botanical Gardens, Darling Harbor and Market City. I also got to check out the area surrounding the university and eat my first taste of Japanese food. Although I know I left a lot of things unseen, I felt pretty good about my brief tour of Sydney.
You should visit Sydney if you:
1. Love to shop. I was completely blown away by the number of malls and stores I came across. The malls actually connect above streets to form a gigantic shopping center. And it's not American Eagle. We are talking Chanel, Hermes, David Jones, Prada, Versace, and a slew of boutiques. The price tags make it a window shopping experience, but still fun.
2. Love to eat. Have I mentioned Australia has great food? Well this applies to Sydney as well.
3. Love to exercise. I was surprised that I saw just as many people running or working out in the parks in Sydney as I did in Bondi. Also walking around the city provides your days worth of steps.
There's so much more, especially if you hop on a ferry and visit surrounding areas. All in all Sydney gets two thumbs up from this girl!
Next up: Brisbane and my Easter weekend with Hillsong!
When I first arrived it was hard to believe I was in Sydney. Being in the center of it doesn't feel particularly special. It was kind of like being in Melbourne. So I wasn't as excited as I probably should have been, until I saw the Sydney Opera House. When I started walking I knew that Circular Quay (pronounced "key") would be my destination and that I wanted to see this iconic place. It's not that I didn't know what it looked like, everyone knows what it looks like, but its one of those things that you have to do so you can say, "I've been there." As I made my way through The Rocks, a historical neighborhood of Sydney, I spotted the opera house through some trees in the distance. My pace quickened and I immediately began searching for a better view, a more open space. Once I did I just couldn't believe I was actually standing there. That's when Sydney became real to me. Standing there looking at the Sydney Opera House completely amazed by this stunning building sitting on the edge of the water.
I had been going back and forth about whether or not to buy a ferry pass, deciding if it was worth the money. Seeing the opera house made the decision for me. I just had to get a better look at this place. From the water the Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Sydney Opera House sit perfectly together. I kept taking pictures, pretty much the same one, over and over again. It's features the Sydney skyline with two of its most beloved treasures.
Once I finally comprehended that I was in Sydney Australia the day seemed a lot shorter. I felt like I hadn't given myself enough time to take everything in. I was singing Wicked's "One Short Day" in my head. In my quick day and a half in Sydney I experienced Pitt Street Mall, the Queen Victoria Building, Hyde Park, the Domain, the Botanical Gardens, Darling Harbor and Market City. I also got to check out the area surrounding the university and eat my first taste of Japanese food. Although I know I left a lot of things unseen, I felt pretty good about my brief tour of Sydney.
You should visit Sydney if you:
1. Love to shop. I was completely blown away by the number of malls and stores I came across. The malls actually connect above streets to form a gigantic shopping center. And it's not American Eagle. We are talking Chanel, Hermes, David Jones, Prada, Versace, and a slew of boutiques. The price tags make it a window shopping experience, but still fun.
2. Love to eat. Have I mentioned Australia has great food? Well this applies to Sydney as well.
3. Love to exercise. I was surprised that I saw just as many people running or working out in the parks in Sydney as I did in Bondi. Also walking around the city provides your days worth of steps.
There's so much more, especially if you hop on a ferry and visit surrounding areas. All in all Sydney gets two thumbs up from this girl!
Next up: Brisbane and my Easter weekend with Hillsong!
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
The Beautiful Bondi Beach
Let me tell you about a place called Bondi. It's a place of white sand beaches, gorgeous blue water, cute shops and tasty cafes. Bondi is where you want to be on a clear sky sunny day. Thank goodness that's where I found myself for two gorgeous days.
I arrived in Bondi completely exhausted after waiting at southern cross station for 9 hours and then riding a train for 12. I was sweaty, smelly, and tired. When I rocked up to Leesa's apartment I had two things on my mind. Shower and beach. Now normally I wouldn't shower before going to the beach (because that just doesn't make any sense) but today was special. By ten I was laying on a gorgeous beach surrounded by beautiful (and sometimes half naked) people. I then took several glorious naps, waking up every so often to turn myself over. Around one my napping/ sun bathing patience had worn off and I was ready to move. After two days of exploring, walking, taking pictures, and tanning here are some of my conclusions about Bondi:
1. Something about the amazing scenery and all around perfect landscape must make people want to get up and go. This was a holiday where I was actually upset because I didn't have any work out clothes with me. It seemed like everyone was running, going to a yoga class, or being trained. I think being that close to the beach, and therefore that close to a daily reminder that you will be in a swimsuit, is a motivator.
2. People of Bondi probably have to work out so often because there is so much food to consume. I said this about Melbourne, and maybe it's just because I'm experiencing so much food for the first time, but the food was so tempting. If I lived in Bondi, I would have to work out like a maniac too-or just resign myself to a life wear elastic stretch pants.
3. I'm getting married along the walk from Bondi to Bronte. Pictures will come soon but while going for the coastal walk (and being reminded every two seconds by another runner that I wasn't making the cut by just walking) I found a beautiful little circle that looks out onto the ocean and decided that I would be married there. So start saving people.
4. If I lived in Bondi everyday would be a holiday filled with sunbathing, long walks, delicious food, and yoga class. And life would be good.
5. Chipotle makes the best burrito. I am constantly on the search for Mexican food here and it is very hard to find. Bondi happened to have a restaurant called Beach Burrito Co. A burrito at the beach? I normally wouldn't want to feel that bloated when I knew the next day I would be in a bathing suit but I had to see if this place was any good. After a sampling of chips and guacamole and a chipotle chicken burrito I was reaffirmed in my knowledge that Chipotle is the very best. If you ever go to Bondi absolutely make a stop at this place because it is good. But for as expensive as it was, the chips arent freshly made, the wait is very long, the seating limited, and after asking for no sour cream or pico, I was given the pico but no cheese or guacamole. But I guess that's what happens when you don't watch how your food is being made.
Overall, I would place Bondi at the top of my list of "Places I Would Live." Its definitely worth making a trip especially if you need a break from the big city of Sydney.
I arrived in Bondi completely exhausted after waiting at southern cross station for 9 hours and then riding a train for 12. I was sweaty, smelly, and tired. When I rocked up to Leesa's apartment I had two things on my mind. Shower and beach. Now normally I wouldn't shower before going to the beach (because that just doesn't make any sense) but today was special. By ten I was laying on a gorgeous beach surrounded by beautiful (and sometimes half naked) people. I then took several glorious naps, waking up every so often to turn myself over. Around one my napping/ sun bathing patience had worn off and I was ready to move. After two days of exploring, walking, taking pictures, and tanning here are some of my conclusions about Bondi:
1. Something about the amazing scenery and all around perfect landscape must make people want to get up and go. This was a holiday where I was actually upset because I didn't have any work out clothes with me. It seemed like everyone was running, going to a yoga class, or being trained. I think being that close to the beach, and therefore that close to a daily reminder that you will be in a swimsuit, is a motivator.
2. People of Bondi probably have to work out so often because there is so much food to consume. I said this about Melbourne, and maybe it's just because I'm experiencing so much food for the first time, but the food was so tempting. If I lived in Bondi, I would have to work out like a maniac too-or just resign myself to a life wear elastic stretch pants.
3. I'm getting married along the walk from Bondi to Bronte. Pictures will come soon but while going for the coastal walk (and being reminded every two seconds by another runner that I wasn't making the cut by just walking) I found a beautiful little circle that looks out onto the ocean and decided that I would be married there. So start saving people.
4. If I lived in Bondi everyday would be a holiday filled with sunbathing, long walks, delicious food, and yoga class. And life would be good.
5. Chipotle makes the best burrito. I am constantly on the search for Mexican food here and it is very hard to find. Bondi happened to have a restaurant called Beach Burrito Co. A burrito at the beach? I normally wouldn't want to feel that bloated when I knew the next day I would be in a bathing suit but I had to see if this place was any good. After a sampling of chips and guacamole and a chipotle chicken burrito I was reaffirmed in my knowledge that Chipotle is the very best. If you ever go to Bondi absolutely make a stop at this place because it is good. But for as expensive as it was, the chips arent freshly made, the wait is very long, the seating limited, and after asking for no sour cream or pico, I was given the pico but no cheese or guacamole. But I guess that's what happens when you don't watch how your food is being made.
Overall, I would place Bondi at the top of my list of "Places I Would Live." Its definitely worth making a trip especially if you need a break from the big city of Sydney.
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