Off The Coast

The semester has officially come to an end. To give us enough time to prepare for final exams, students were given a week off to study and complete those last round of assessments. Of course, I doubt many of us stayed on campus during Study Week. I mean, what better time to travel! Despite the constant rainfall, a classmate and I visited Melbourne for three days. I even invested in a pair of gumboots (Translation: Rain boots) because heavy rainfall was expected during our tour of the Great Ocean Road. Fortunately (or unfortunately), Melbourne is known to have many seasons in one day, so the weather was never as poor as anticipated.

Melbourne is quite different from the Gold Coast: a beautiful skyline, reliable public transportation, sidewalks busy with corporate Australia, diverse dining options, and rich history. Coming from New York City, it seems like the norm - that is, until you live in a city that doesn't appreciate many things aside from surfing and Aussie burgers. Sad, isn't it? But after visiting Melbourne, I was reassured that this country has a lot more to offer and isn't all about soaking up the sun and hanging ten. Did I use that correctly?

Our first night in Melbourne, a friend of ours showed us around town. We walked along the Yarra River, snapped photos on the Spencer St. Bridge, under the clocks on Flinders Street, and in front of the enormous Christmas tree on Swanston Street. Ashleigh and I marveled at every Christmas decoration as if we were new to the holiday! That evening, we dined in the Crown Casino at the Automatic Restaurant. That peppered chicken pizza was heavenly, and the New Zealand wine wasn't a bad touch. Conversation flowed until our plates and glasses were empty. Definitely, a wonderful evening out!

The next day, we woke up at 6AM to prepare for our tour of the Great Ocean Road. Dave, our tour guide, was full of stories. Some interesting, others not so much. And yes, I will spare you. Allow me to just fill you in on what the Great Ocean Road is all about. Good thing I kept my journal handy as Dave shared his tales...

The Great Ocean Road is the largest war memorial dedicated to the WWI casualties and runs about 243km in length. (Note: We traveled about 215km). Soldiers who returned home built the road between 1919 and 1932, stopping for some brews in the interim! The official start to the road begins at Bells Beach, which is known as the Surf Coast; the middle portion, which runs through Apollo Bay, is known as the Green Coast; and the final part of the road is known as the Shipwreck Coast. However, the Great Ocean Road is well known for sites such as The Twelve Apostles, Loch Ard Gorge, and London Bridge.

Which brings us to our final day in Melbourne. Luckily, our flight wasn't scheduled to depart until 6PM, so we were able to roam the city a bit more. We enjoyed brekky on Swanston St., watched Christmas displays on Bourke St., strolled down Lygon St., ventured through the Carlton Gardens, rode on the Free City Circle Tram, and had lunch in Waterfront City. A beautiful day to say the least, but Tiger Airways ruined it all! We took the bus shuttle to the Avalon Airport, which is an hour outside of Melbourne, only to find out that our flight had been diverted to depart from Tullamarine Airport. Not to mention, we would now be departing an hour later than scheduled. Oh, you guessed it. This airport was back in Melbourne. We waited about a half hour before another shuttle took us back to Melbourne. When we arrived at Tullamarine, chaos ensued and someone even threw up in front of us. It was an adventure to say the least. At that point, the Gold Coast never seemed better!

Now, a look through my lens.

 [Ashleigh and I on the Yarra River.]

  ["Meet me under the clocks."]

Flinders Street

 [Weird to see Christmas decorations and sleeveless dresses!]

Swanston Street

[SU pride knows no boundaries.]

Bells Beach, Surf Coast

[Ashleigh and I at some random lookout point.]

The Great Ocean Road

[King Parrots need love too!]

Kenneth River

["This is my good side."]

Apollo Bay, Green Coast

[Taking in my surroundings.]

Green Coast.

[The Twelve Apostles.]

Shipwreck Coast

[Another view of The Twelve Apostles.]

Shipwreck Coast

[Hello, from Loch Ard Gorge!]  

Shipwreck Coast

[Another view of Loch Ard Gorge.]

Shipwreck Coast

[The second half of London Bridge after it collapsed in 1990.]

Shipwreck Coast

[City skyline.]  

Yarra River

[Carlton Gardens.]

[Free City Circle Tram...Yes! It's actually free.]

Until another adventure...

Come Get Summi'This

I never quite understood why people set aside valuable time just to climb Machu Picchu, Mount Shasta, or Mount Fuji. Hell, any mountain for that matter. What could you possibly get out of a lengthy, overrated, sweaty, and tiresome tour through the unknown? Surprise! I actually have an answer: Pride, clarity, and humility. It took me some time to get to this priceless conclusion because the feeling is nearly indescribable, but I reckon this was a good attempt?

Last night, I attended the Exploration Society's "Yawning at Mt. Warning". The group met up at midnight, book bags in hand and courage in heart, ready for our adventure. Waivers were inevitable, although one drunk student had a problem with signing the sheet. I suppose since he was drunk, his signature was the most important of them all. But why did the waiver ask for a "Witness"? Excuse me, but you didn't need a witness when I paid. I politely wrote "grown woman" in the provided space. Ha! We arrived at the base of Mt. Warning about 2AM, received our complimentary apples and bananas and listened for our pep talk. (Note: The ride was an hour but Mt. Warning is in New South Wales, which is an hour ahead). Anywho, we soon began our journey to the top. About 30 minutes in, I realized why they emphasized being fit. I was sweating profusely, my legs were beginning to tremble and soon, my right leg went numb.

No sense of time or direction. Just the trail before me held in the glimmer of my flashlight. 

Once I forgot about my poor little foot and frantic breathing patterns, I enjoyed conversations about the splendours of the world with my immediate colleagues. Stephanie is from Vienna, Austria and Frank, quite the witty fellow, is from the Netherlands. Who else could bask in talks of travel, culture, and history?

I learned the true meaning of "mind over matter". Sure, we hear the saying from time to time and it gives us that extra umph! I knew I could not turn back nor did I wish to give up. The matter of the situation was that I was not fit and my body was crumbling beneath me as we trekked 4km to Summit. My mind reminded me of the joy I will feel having completed this hike. 2.4km remaining, 1.4km remaining, .4km remaining. Eventually, two things stood between the Summit and I; a thick silver chain and vertical sheer rocks. But, I did it and all I could do was smile to myself. The intentions were to watch the sunrise, but unfortunately the skies were grey. Hey, we were still able to snap some gorgeous shots while nibbling on brekky (Translation: breakfast). The hike back down seemed so much longer, but reaching the bottom seemed even more rewarding than the Summit...And then I cued "Golden" by Jill Scott.

And now, some pictures.

The group formerly known as Two.

Blurry and full of pride. My first moment at the Summit.

 Warning: A thick silver chain and vertical sheer rocks.

Sunrise thwarted but still a beautiful view.

Look, the sun!

Vivid greens, humbling highs.

Imagine this at night...

....& reaching the Summit in 1.5 hours.

WHEW!

Wherever I choose to go, it will take me far. I'm livin' my life like it's golden...

The Wild Life

Australia is known for its venemous snakes, poisonous spiders, and wild kangaroos. Oh yeah, and their cheeky lingo! This morning, Morgan and I finally made our way to Currumbin Wildlife Center to learn more about the many animals. We caught the 8:55AM bus and arrived approximately 10:00AM, just in time for the Close Encounter Show! The dingos and mountain brushtail possoms were so cute!

Did you know Dingos are the largest land based predators on the continent?

Did you know the Mountain Brushtail Possom is a marsupial?

As we made our way around the park, we noticed an abundance of koalas. They were curled up in just about every branch. We waited, and waited some more. We were sure something amazing was going to happen. Perhaps, they would hang upside-down, do a trick, something! But they didn't. Still, you cannot deny how darling they are!  

Did you know Koalas are facing extinction?

Then there was a close encounter.

...Yes, I am holding a Koala and her name is Kozy...

The day went on. We stumbled upon some Kangaroos cooling in the shade. Yes! If I had a dollar for everytime someone asked me if I had either seen or rode in a kangaroo, I would have...well, I would have some pocket change. But now I can put an end to the tiresome inquiry. Anywho, I tip-toed around the mob (Translation: group of kangaroos) and found this one just waiting for the flashing lights -- 

Did you know populations have been found in Hawaii, New Zealand, and Great Britain?

And you guessed it, I got a bit closer...

...Say Cheese...

Our student vouchers gave us access to the Green Challenge, but it was way too hot to be in a jumpsuit swinging from ropes and making desperate attempts to tight-rope between trees! I really could go on and on about all of the animals I saw today. Instead, I will leave you with a few more photos. 

[ Cuckatoo]

[Tazmanian Devils]

[Rufous Owl]

[Crocodile w. Turtle Buddies]

[Dragonfly]

*Just thought it was a great photo opportunity

One last question, who knew life would get so...wild?

Not-So-Mundane Monday

What comes to mind when I utter the word, "Monday"? You probably just rolled your eyes and let out an exasperated sigh...and I don't blame you. I am usually restless Sunday evenings just thinking of everything the forthcoming week will bring. But not this time. Shweta, a teammate and friend of mine, offered to show me more of the Gold Coast. Our midday roadtrip began with Kirra Beach which is highlighted for its skyline and the surfers who frequent its waves. My toes sunk into the sand as we picked seashells and shared which experiences led us to Australia.

...trace my steps...

...far, far away from here...

...and lead me to Surfers Paradise...

The original plan was to head back to campus in time for my 4PM lecture. And by original, I mean we totally didn't stick to the script. Have you ever seen the movie, "A Walk To Remember"? Well, the protagonist had a bucket list that included standing in two places at once. I am happy to say I had the opportunity to do just that! I stood on the state borderline between New South Wales and Queensland. What is even more interesting is that these two states are in different time zones but they sit one on top of the other!

Please excuse my pants...the waves tried to take a hold of me!

You probably guessed that this wasn't the end of the trip. We stopped over what looked like the Queens Necklace in Bombay, India. Basically, it is a lookout point that oversees Kirra and Tweed Head Beaches.

...With all my love, from the Gold Coast...

Next, we made our way to Byron Bay, which was about an hour drive away. Apparently this beach is also known for surfing and the area is home to Skydiving. The small town is lined with several restaurants and boutiques. For the life of me, (yes, it is that drastic) I cannot remember where we had lunch but I cannot forget how delicious those grilled prawns were! The chips (Translation: fries) were a bit salty but satisfying nonetheless. Eventually, we made our way back to the car...and found the cheekiest (Translation: clever, witty, crass) bumper sticker! 

WARNING: The following photo does not necessarily reflect the thoughts and opinions of the author.

...Can't say I didn't warn ya!...

And so we made our way home. Of course, not without stopping at Don Murphy's liquor emporium. All that talk about cocktails, how could I not pick up goon (Translation: boxed wine)!? But I am no slacker. After getting home, I freshened up, ate dinner, and began working on an assignment due Friday. I needed this...

I feel...alive.

Bonus Entry: Events Cinema

I usually don't blog more than once a week, but the cinema here is totally blog-worthy! Evie did warn me this would be an adventure. With only 20-minutes between the time I got home and the time I had to meet Evie, we were just happy to arrive at Events Cinema before the 6:40PM showtime. Oh, and without getting lost might I add! The time has finally come for me to see...

As our luck would have it, the 6:40PM showing sold out right before it was my turn to approach the till. And get this, the "Gold Class" members are allowed to cut in front of anyone. Their queue even had a red carpet! For a higher charge, "Gold Class" members view the film in a separate theatre, sit in comfortable reclining chairs, and receive a free meal. Evie and I eventually reached the till after being skipped by four "gold members" and had to settle for the 8:50PM show instead. The 3D tickets were $20 and the seating was assigned. Yes, assigned. The attendant asks whether you'd like to sit in the lower, middle, or upper section. Whichever you answer, your ticket states the seat number in the respective section. I was lucky number L-9.

What better way to pass time than to grub!? Evie and I dined at Toscani's Restaurant. That Classic Chicken Caesar Salad wasn't half bad but it could've done without the sardine-like topping. Yuck! Here comes the best part. After our meal, we went back to the cinema area and had (drumroll please) a cocktail. Our choice of poison? Malibu =). I also had the honor of explaining what a Gerber baby is, priceless!

"Is that some kind of...special baby?"

OK, are you keeping up? Let's recap: red-carpeted queues, $20 tickets, assigned seating, and bar. Before we took our seats, we got some popcorn from what looked like Candyland. The associates were even dressed in red & white stripped get-ups. Oh, and the popcorn was in a huge dispenser and self-serve. Fast forward, seats taken. The previews were basic television commericals with a couple of previews about about upcoming films (some of which have already debuted in the States).

Finally, the Movie Classifications:

	Suitable for all viewers. It is noted by the board that a "G" movie rating in Australia doesn't indicate the movie is intended for children, simply that nothing in the movie will be disturbing or harmful to children.
	Parental Guidance recommended for children under 15 years of age.
	15 + Mature, recommended for audiences 15 years and over. Note: this is not a legally restricted Australian movie rating, but movies in this category cannot be recommended for those under 15 years.
	15+ Mature Accompanied. This category is legally restricted in that children under 15 cannot see "MA" films or rent them on video unless accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
	18+ Restricted. This category is legally restricted to adults. No one under 18 may view these movies in a cinema or rent them on videocassette.
	18+ Restricted. This rating.applies to sexually explicit material which is restricted to viewers 18 years of age and over.

The Closest Answer to Life

Many people think of New York City as this melting pot of cultures. Truth is, the city is more like an overloaded plate at an all-you-can-eat-buffet; the cultures are just there, not necessarily meshing together. No one has yet to see this ideal in action until they have left the country. Perhaps it is just the campus life here at Bond Uni, but I have met so many people from so many places. Norway, Germany, London, Sweden, Fiji, Singapore, New Zealand, Denmark, Peru, Sudan, and Tanzania to name a few. Sure, their accents and inquiries are cool but what is more remarkable is their outlook on life. So carefree, so humble, so inspiring. I have finally realized how uptight people from the States are!


This week's activity: Kayaking/Snorkeling/Tracking Wildlife. Well, apparently the Gold Coast has gotten more rain in one day than it has in an entire month so the water wasn't too snorkeling-friendly. We still fed the fish and watched them jump to grab the bread pieces! We soon paddled to Wavebreak and South Stradbroke Islands. Best part, no sharks! It was enlightening, and that is to say the very least. We were led by Mark, quite the cheeky tourguide, and another young man who was actually of the Aboriginal Culture. We will call him "Sea Eagle" (this is what his Aboriginal name meant). After our Billie-Tea Breakfast and a bit more kayaking, we walked about South Stradboke Island, which is the world's fourth largest sand island. Anywho, during Sea Eagle's traditional welcome dance, he smeared clay (which he got from a rock himself) on our foreheads, hands, and feet.

"Your mind, Your touch, and Your journey."

Imagine the power you have with just those three things. Your mind: Your imagination, your thoughts, and what have you. Your touch: you can touch lives, you can change people/things for the better (or for the worse), and be good to your land. Your journey: the tracks you lay before you...enough said. Later on in our journey, we spotted a wallaby, threw some Aboriginal weapons, and heard tales how connected the Aboriginies are to the land. Cotton trees, warriors, dolphins and their sacredness, wallaby holes, emus, messenger birds, and everlasting memories =).

The answer? There is just so much more to life and the best part is learning from others.

An Australian Tale

I've heard a couple of times that "there is no way to happiness, happiness is the way". Well, yes and no. I certainly agree that happiness is a state of being and there is no absolute way to achieve this feeling, but I am certain my way to happiness is here in Australia. Granted, there is no running away from those issues that pain me... I still find myself venting to my journal, or singing along obnoxiously to Maxwell's "Pretty Wings", but every day I learn to smile a little more. I am finally allowing myself to deal - or not deal - with certain things and am better recognizing those situations (and people) that are worth my attention. How ironic, huh? The way to let go of my past was to let go of everything I know.

Speaking of letting go of things I knew, I suppose this now the best time to give you a glimpse of the Aussie lifestyle. Bear with me.

i. Not even on campus for more than 5 minutes, I was asking about food! Of course, some of you aren't surprised but this time I have a valid excuse. I had been flying for the past 2 days (3 days after crossing the international date line). The guy who showed me to my room walked me down to Cafe Bond. I ordered the first thing that crossed my tired eyes - Tuscan Fish Fillet. "Hi, May I have the Tus-can fish fil-lay?" Here was my first lesson. The word is pronounced "fil-lit" here. I couldn't tell if this was some sick joke. Welp, I've ordered all sorts of "fil-lits" now, and it is no joke!

ii. You can actually purchase your trip on the bus here! Imagine that on an MTA bus in midtown manhattan, ha! If you pay with cash, you get a little paper transfer. My second lesson - always losing the paper transfer and having to pay again! It was only $1.70 back to campus, but so what!? The Go-Card is their equivalent to our MetroCard. You can put as little as $20 on the card and get serious rides because it operates much like the D.C. system; It takes money off according to destination. Here, you tap the card once you get on, and again when you get off. If you forget to tap when you get off, you're running up your tab! I forgot the first time but damnit if I ever forget again. Waste not, want not =)

iii. My third lesson showed me how laid back the people are here. Waiting at the bus stop after my first trip to the mall, two men popped the caps off of their beer and sipped away! Right there, on the street! Let's not even mention the young man smoking his joint a couple of paces away. This is all while we're waiting for the bus, mind you. I have heard from a couple of people up to a certain amount of mary-jane is perfectly legal. Well, then.

iv. Enough lessons, bring on the fun facts. The dollar bills here are waterproof and the $1 and $2 are found as coins. My first thought, "what do they toss at the strippers?" Hmm. There are $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 bills too. As for the smaller coins, there are .05, .10, .20, and .50 cent coins...actually cannot remember if I have seen a penny. When you are checking out, the price includes the tax and is often rounded up to the nearest dollar because of how their coins work. If something is $9, it may be $8.15 with .75 tax which will be reflected on the receipt. I have shopped quite a bit since I have been here. There is a science behind it and I have figured it out. *giggles*

v. It was a sunny day on Burleigh Heads beach when I found out there is no Thanksgiving here. I mean, I guess I should have known. After all, I am in another country. But oh, what I wouldn't do for some macaroni & cheese, ham, roasted chicken, sauteed string beans, biscuits and fried ice cream. I don't quite know where fried ice cream comes into play there, but it sounded pretty good. So the fun fact? No Thanksgiving day, or any equivalent. And for Christmas here? They have barbeques because it is the midst of their summer season.

vi. Many of my friends and family were concerned with the accent. Funny thing, I have only met about 3 or 4 Australians. And, when I do encounter an Australian, it is not the accent that is the issue but the lingo. Some of their favorite words:

- Goodonya: Used like "Good for you" or "OK, good"
- Keen: I cringe when I hear this. Used like "I'm down/interested"..."I'm keen to go with you"
- Toilet: Ask for the bathroom here and watch the stares you receive
- Heaps: Oh this one, I no longer cringe. I try to block it out like a terrible life experience. You know the meaning but it is used here in everyday convo. "There are heaps of shops there" or "It is heaps cold in the morning"...please, don't let me type it again.
- Dodey/Stodgey: Sketchy
- Footy: Football. I don't believe they play the same way, though.
- Sunnies: Sunglasses
- Swimmers: Bathing suit
- Lollies: Candy

Just my observations over the past month...

11 more to go.