#burger places wollongong

[kyndaris]

Legends and Lattes

While you, dear reader, may initially think this post is about Travis Baldree's novel of the same name, I am here to quickly disabuse you of that notion. In fact, I shall do you one better and admit I have yet to even read the book sitting on my shelf, begging to be read. Heck, I even bought the prequel not too long ago: Bookshops and Bonedust. And before you say anything, dear reader, I will get to it.

Eventually.

It just so happens my blog is not solely a book blog. Nor am I a BookTuber/ Booktoker by day or by night. So, you know, it's very understandable why I've not read through this, assumedly masterpiece of a tale. Plus, I also have a lot of other hobbies like badminton, videogames and my own actual writing. All of which detract from my reading time.

Then, of course, there's my dating life, which, albeit is slowing down because I've mostly given up on men. And well, the women are certainly not biting as often.

What's a 32-year-old supposed to do except pine for the love of a fictional character? Karlach, I'm looking at you for when I finally start playing Baldur's Gate 3.

As you've no doubt picked up on, this blog is yet another entry into my forays of dating. This time round, I met up with a woman (third time's the charm, maybe? We're still chatting on the occasion although the topic has shifted into more a creative enterprise). It started with her liking one of my Hinge prompts, and after thoroughly checking her profile (she had actually cropped up in a few of my recommends previously), I thought I would do her the courtesy of matching.

It was followed by a brief conversation on mythology before the two of us went down the tabletop role-playing game route where we both tried, and failed, at playing grifters stealing personal information. Now we're on a journey to stop the Goblin King. The dastardly creature has stolen her identity, leaving naught but an empty vault of where it should be. And because of that, I, the handsome rogue in this situation, must continue masquerading as a Nigerian Prince as we go forth to acquire a magical sword with the ability to track goblins.

So far, we've made it to a small town called Bree. Although we did try to ride towards Bag's End, a number of black riders passed us by and Keyleth - the codename I've decided to use in this instance to refer to my date - was insistent we put a stop to their evil plans. Not that we know they're evil.

They simply have business with a halfling and are being very difficult about anyone who might be in their way.

As you can see, dear reader, we are most assuredly not in Kansas anymore.

That said, we did arrange to meet at a cafe halfway between where we live in what is fittingly named The Shire for Sydneysiders like me. It should be noted that unlike me, Keyleth does not live in Sydney. Rather, she is situated in the coastal city of Wollongong. You'll remember it as a place I visited not too long ago with a group of friends as we tackled a dastardly difficult escape room.

At the time, though, Keyleth's path and mine had not yet crossed. A shame, truly, since there are quite a few choice burger places in Wollongong we could potentially visit if I didn't mind the long drive down.

The cafe was named 7th Heaven. To my dismay, there was no raven-haired bartender or a blond courier. What it did have were a number of brunch options such as my go-to meal in almost every situation: Eggs Benedict with a side of smoked salmon. Keyleth ordered a milkshake and Eggs on Toast, adding on top of it a rasher or two of bacon and some delectable avocado.

By the end, though, she'd barely touched it - having eaten only one piece of bread and egg, some bacon and hardly any of the avocado.

Keyleth was the first to arrive - most probably due to the limited number of trains and because she had further to travel. I arrived just shy of the appointed time at 10. When I arrived, I had not quite expected the shock of dyed red hair to greet me. After all, in all her previous photos - both on Hinge and on Whatsapp - Keyleth had sported long blonde hair.

Still, she was keen to give me a hug, though I was quick to advise I wasn't much of a hugger. Or even a physical touch kinda gal. Yes, I'm more willing to accept it from a woman but it's not something I tend to do. And it's certainly not one of my key love languages.

Once I had sat down, we chatted idly about how our week had gone. After putting in our order, we began the painstaking process of learning a little more of the other. Keyleth learned I was an only child, whereas I learned she had a sister. Some of our family dynamics were talked about before we moved to more dangerous topics: like my favourite musical and whether or not I am actually a theatre kid (spoiler alert, I am not. Yes, I've been to four musicals in the last four months but those are baby numbers compared to the actual musical nerds out there. Or so I hope).

We also chatted about the weird role-playing experience unfolding on our messages, with Keyleth confirming the Goblin King was none other than David Bowie from Labyrinth.

Then, of course, we also talked a little about our dating experiences. Given I was asexual and she was demisexual, it seemed prudent for us to address the very big elephant in the room of what an actual relationship would be like. Both of us were a little uneasy about jumping immediately jumping into relationships as we required time to get to know the people we would be committing a significant portion of time with. Lust is certainly not a thing either of us experienced at first sight. And in order to catch feels, a strong emotional connection must be created first.

I, certainly, have not been in an actual relationship of significance with another. At least in the romantic sense. I do like to think I have many meaningful friendships with the people in my life though it's anyone's guess if they agree. More than likely, they find me egregious or too sardonic for their tastes (in fact, I recently had a nineteen-year-old university student at my work place call me epigrammatic!)

We also bonded over how difficult it was to date cisgender men!

But while the conversation was invigorating, our brunch date did slowly come to an end. Given the immediate surroundings didn't have any other interesting diversion, we paid for our meals and headed back to the local train station. A little unfortunate but sometimes that is how the cookie crumbles.

After all, it would be the height of rudeness to remain at a table for several hours afterwards when all our food was taken away.

Will there be another date with Keyleth? I'm not quite sure. Our conversations were pretty easy-going, flowing from one topic to another.

It was certainly better than the date I had with Tip Top.

As always, time will tell if anything will come of it, but I'm hopeful in obtaining a new friend if nothing romantic blossoms from the encounter. Of course, there is still Dikottir.

And while we haven't exactly had a sixth date/ meet-up, both of us will have gone to PAX in Melbourne by the time this blog post goes up. So, keep your eyes peeled for that riveting entry. Or not.

In the words of the founder of feminism himself, Rhysand, "It's your choice, Feyre darling."

As an aside, I can't say for sure if that's an actual quote from the book but it certainly feels like something he would say. On that note, I need to stop reading books like ACOTAR. I mean, it's no Fourth Wing, so I'm glad for that. But it's definitely not the height of fantasy literature. I was hoping for.

Anyways, THIS WAS ANOTHER EPISODE OF DATING 2.0! WILL A ROSE BE FINALLY AWARDED TO A SUITABLE SUITOR? YOU'LL HAVE TO WAIT UNTIL WE COME BACK FOR THE NEXT UPDATE!

And now, back to the weather!

[webozfoodhunter]

[lizardinaustralia]

Week One

2/22/19 - 3/1/19 

My first week in Australia has been amazing. I have seen the most beautiful nature that I’ve ever experienced and have made some cool friends!

Day One: We were met at the airport by a tour guide who took us to a hostel and then a tour of the city later on. Sadly, it rained all day but it wasnt terrible since the rain was warm. I saw the Opera House for the first time and was blown away! I learned that the architect built it as a part of a compitition and he actually never considered it a finished building because he was never completely happy with it. His budget was supposed to be $7 million but the final cost of the project was $102 million. I also found out there is a restaurant inside the Opera House so I naturally looked up the menu and the ordering style is by courses. It’s $145 for a 3 course dinner, not including sides which are $10 each! Crazy. But it looks delicious.

Day Two: I had my first legal Australian beer! It was okay. I had fish and chips for dinner at the hostel, which I don’t think was a great representation of true Australian fish and chips so I’ll have to try again. This day I got my new phone number and ate “Maccas” (McDonalds). I also learned that they don’t have Wendy’s or Burger King. They have “Hungry Jacks” which has the exact same logo as Burger King so I assume it’s owned by the same people. Also, soething CRAZY is they hate Starbucks and instead have a ton of Gloria Jean’s Coffee’s! We have one in Greece Ridge Mall! So wild.

I also went to the Taranga Zoo this day! Check out my vlog from that here.

Day Three: Blue Mountains. THe most beautiful scene of nature I have ever looked at. Check out my post about it here for pictures and here for a vlog!

Day Four: We took a bus to Wollongong and I moved in to my dorm! We had orientation so I didn’t get to fully unpack until the next day but it was a good day becuase I confirmed that Olivia was my room mate and didn’t have to worry about that anymore. The International House is home to almost 100 people from all over the world. There is a dining hall on the first floor with a kitchen that cooks dinner every night, breakfast 4 days a week (continental the other three) and lunch 5 days a week. The food is decent. Luckily there is always at least one dish without dairy!

Day Five: I went for a run like a boss. lol. I ran to the beach because I had yet to see it. It was beautiful! I got caught in the rain but I saw a “rock pool” which is a small area in a rock formation that holds water. It had a mini coral reef! There was coral, anemanies (?), various shells, and hermit crabs! It was very colorful. I spent the rest of the day shopping and finishing my room decorations.

Day Six: I visited campus for the first time for orientation and a small tour. The campus store is small and has limited merchandise but thats probably in the best interest of my bank account. They have an IGA on campus which suprised me! A little taste of home.

Day Seven: I spent the day at the beach! It was very relaxing. However, I got burnt on my back, arms and feet. I realize now that I forgot sunscreen in those places. Big mistake. That was 3 days ago and I’m still feeling the burn. Lesson learned I guess! 

I also took the wrong bus home this day and got so, insanely car sick that I had to lay in bed for the remainder of the day. Nasty. I like trains better.

This week overall was great! I haven’t felt terribly homesick quite yet so I am enjoying my time!

[thinkveganworld]

This is long, but I thought I’d post on the outside chance anybody might find it worth reading.  It’s part two of a three-part series of articles I wrote years ago, and it includes information on modern day U. S politicians’ use of political propaganda.   

Goebbels and mass mind control: Part Two How PR opinion-shapers undermine environmental protection

In part one, we examined the fact that Hitler's propagandist, Joseph Goebbels, admired Edward Bernays, a self-proclaimed founder of the public relations industry. Goebbels used Bernays' book "Crystallizing Public Opinion" in his campaign against Germany's Jewish population.  Now we'll look at specific propaganda techniques shared by Goebbels and today's corporate PR teams, and at how those techniques undermine today's environmental movement.

Public relations can be used for good or ill. When PR spin is used to convince people that harmful things are good for them, or to turn people against their own best interests, it is used for ill. Goebbels practiced propaganda as a black art.

He helped organize Hitler's "brown shirts," and incited them to violence. He instigated the events leading to "Kristallknacht," the infamous nights of widespread brutal attacks against the Jews, November 8-9, 1938. He helped create the "fuhrer cult," spinning Hitler as Germany's great redeemer and convincing millions that the Nazi state was vital to their well-being.

Goebbels believed in using stealth tactics, or "institutional lying," and in using "fronts" to promote anti-Semitism and Nazi policies. For example, Goebbels set up a film office in July 1933, made it part of a branch of the Reich Cultural Chamber, and then used films to influence mass audiences. Klaus P. Fischer writes in "Nazi Germany: A New History" that most of the entertainment films "presented a sanitized image of carefree life under the protective umbrella of the Nazi regime."

When pro-Nazi or anti-Semitic propaganda came from the mouth of a popular German movie star on the screen, instead of directly from Goebbels, the public perceived it differently. In the same way, today's PR firms use front groups (fake grassroots, or "astroturf " groups) or specific so-called "third parties" to speak for corporations.

In "Global Spin," (Chelsea Green Publishing, 1997) science lecturer Sharon Beder writes that Merrill Rose, executive vice-president of the PR firm Porter/Novelli, said: "Put your words in someone else's mouth . . . There will be times when the position you advocate, no matter how well framed and supported, will not be accepted by the public simply because you are who you are. Any institution with a vested commercial interest in the outcome of an issue has a natural credibility barrier to overcome with the public, and often with the media."

John Stauber and Sheldon Rampton point out in "Toxic Sludge Is Good For You," that on behalf of tobacco company Philip Morris, the PR company, Burson-Marsteller, "created the [front group] 'National Smokers Alliance' to mobilize smokers into a grassroots lobby for smoker's rights . . . To defeat environmentalists, PR firms have created green-sounding front groups such as "The Global Climate Coalition" and the "British Columbia Forest Alliance."

Both Goebbels and today's PR firms have used euphemisms and Orwellian newspeak and doublespeak to influence the public mind. For example, corporate PR spinners have told the public that polluting-corporations are friends of nature; that weapons-manufacturer General Electric does no harm but merely "brings good things to life;" that spreading sludge on farm fields is "beneficial use;" that human beings killed in war-for-profit are "collateral damage."

American corporations have at times managed to circumvent the U.S. Constitution and ignore laws designed to protect our own workers and the environment by moving their companies offshore, in the name of "freedom." In Hitler's Germany, the euphemistically named "Law for Terminating the Suffering of People and Nation" (or, the "Enabling Law") gave governments such "freedoms" as the right to deviate from the constitution, ultimately helping Hitler undermine democracy and gain political power.

Goebbels presided over a communications monopoly in Germany by denouncing intellectualism and urging book burning. Today, U. S. corporations have a Goebbels-like communications monopoly, because virtually all television networks and the vast majority of other media outlets in the country are owned by a handful of corporations.

Klaus Fischer writes, "On May 10, 1933, an appalling event in the history of German culture took place-the burning of the books . . . This particular 'cleansing action' (Sauberung) was carried out by the German Student Union."

Of the book burning, Goebbels said, "The age of extreme Jewish intellectualism has now ended, and the success of the German revolution has again given the German spirit the right of way." (J. M. Ritchie, "German Literature Under National Socialism," 1983.) Today corporations discourage Americans from educating themselves about corporate wrongdoing by, as Stauber and Rampton say, "burning books before they're printed."

For example, science writer David Steinman obtained obscure government research from the Freedom of Information Act and used the information in his book, "Diet For A Poisoned Planet." Steinman wrote that many U.S. foods contained contaminants and gave readers a chance to make safer food choices by comparing the amounts of toxins contained in various foods.

Right away, corporate PR firms, including a "pesticide industry front group with deep Republican connections" went to work attacking the book. The Ketchum PR agency (representative of Dole Foods, the Beef Industry Council, Miller Brewing and many other corporate food clients) markets itself as a specialist in "crisis management," according to Stauber and Rampton. A Ketchum memo to the CALRAB food safety team read: "The [Ketchum] agency is currently attempting to get a tour schedule so that we can 'shadow' Steinman's [book promotional] appearances; best scenario, we will have our spokesman in town prior to or in conjunction with Steinman's appearances."

Stauber and Rampton's source inside Ketchum said the PR firm called every talk show where Steinman was booked, saying the shows shouldn't allow Steinman to appear without also presenting "the other side of the issue." The firm also tried to portray Steinman as an "extremist" without credibility.

According to Sharon Beder ("Global Spin") corporate front groups are a fairly recent phenomenon in America . . . a response to the rise of genuine citizen public interest organizations. One front group, the American Council on Science and Health, receives funds from Burger King, Coca-Cola, NutraSweet, Monsanto, Dow, Exxon and other corporations.

Dr. Beder, author of numerous books, and a professional engineer and senior lecturer in Science and Technology Studies at the University of Wollongong, Australia, writes that "the American Council on Science and Health is one of many corporate front groups which allow industry-funded experts to pose as independent scientists to promote corporate causes. Chemical and nuclear industry front groups with scientific sounding names publish pamphlets that are 'peer reviewed' by industry scientists rather than papers in established academic journals."

On the subject of corporate front groups, Beder quotes Mark Megalli and Andy Friedman ("Masks of Deception: Corporate Front Groups in America,"1991): "Contrary to their names, these groups often disregard compelling scientific evidence to further their viewpoints, arguing that pesticides are not harmful, saccharin is not carcinogenic, or that global warming is a myth. By sounding scientific, they seek to manipulate the public's trust."

The goal of pseudo-scientific corporate front groups, says Beder, is to cast doubt on the legitimacy of authentic environmental problems. For example, the Global Climate Coalition is a front group for various gas, oil, coal, automobile and chemical corporations; and it has battled restrictions on greenhouse gas emissions.

Global Climate Coalition has sent journalists videos claiming increased carbon dioxide levels will help feed the world's hungry by increasing crop production. The coalition has lobbied against mandatory emissions controls and asked the Clinton administration to avoid agreements that would reduce greenhouse emissions, claiming they "would damage the U. S. economy."

Corporations have worked to shape the next generation's environmental perceptions "through the development and distribution of 'educational' material to schools," writes Beder. Of course, the "educational" materials promote a corporate slant on environmental problems.

Conservative think-tanks have also opposed environmental legislation, working to cast doubt on greenhouse warming, industrial pollution and ozone depletion. These think-tanks mingle with lobbyists, consultants, interest groups and others and, as Beder says, "seek to provide advice directly to the government officials in policy networks and to government agencies and committees."

The think-tank employees ultimately "become policy makers themselves," and act more as pressure groups or interest groups than as academic institutions. Even so, says Beder, think-tank employees are treated by the media as "independent experts" and sources of expert opinion. Most conservative think-tanks promote free-market ideas, including corporate deregulation and lower taxes for the wealthy.

Corporate and think-tank PR spin doctors typically show little respect for the targets of their propaganda, and little regard for democracy. In another book by Sheldon Rampton and John Stauber, ("Trust Us, We're Experts!" - Tarcher/Putnam, 2001) the authors write, "If you ask the managers of these ever-more-expensive propaganda campaigns why they have vulgarized the democratic process [with, for example, fake grassroots campaigns], they will frequently tell you that the problem is not with them but with the voters who are too "irrational," "ignorant," or "apathetic" to respond to any other kind of appeal."

Stauber and Rampton quote Bill Greider's "Who Will Tell The People:" "On issue after issue, the public is belittled as self-indulgent or misinformed, incapable of grasping the larger complexities known to the policymakers and the circles of experts surrounding them. The public's side of the argument is said to be 'emotional' whereas those who govern are said to be making 'rational' or 'responsible' choices . . . The reality, of course, is that the ability to define what is or isn't 'rational' is itself loaded with political self-interest."

Hitler's spin doctor, Joseph Goebbels, also expressed contempt for the people and democracy. Klaus Fischer quotes the propagandist: "We go into the Reichstag in order to acquire the weapons of democracy from its arsenal. We become Reichstag deputies in order to paralyze the Weimar mentality with its own assistance. If democracy is stupid enough to give us free travel privileges and per diem allowances for this service, that is its affair. We do not worry our heads about this."

Fischer also points out that the Nazis were beneficiaries of popular anti-democratic theories of their time, and of a "totalitarian mood," which included "a wish to dismantle the egalitarian welfare state." Again, Goebbels' techniques and attitudes and the fruits of his propaganda were different in degree from those of today's corporate propagandists, but they were clearly of the same basic nature.

Goebbels and today's corporate PR firms often practice public relations as a black art, however some citizens inform people in helpful ways that produce the fruits of increased public health, safety and well-being.

For example, registered nurse and environmental activist Terri Swearingen worked to prevent the building of one of the world's largest toxic waste incinerators.  When accepting the prestigious Goldman Environmental Prize, Swearingen said, "There are experts who are working in the corporate interest, who often serve to obscure the obvious and challenge common sense; and there are experts and non-experts who are working in the public interest."

Swearingen added, "Citizens who are working in this arena-people who are battling to stop new dump sites or incinerator proposals, people who are risking their lives to prevent the destruction of rain forests or working to ban the industrial uses of chlorine and PVC plastics-are often labeled obstructionists and anti-progress. But we actually represent progress-not technological progress but social progress. We have become the real experts, not because of our title or the university we attended, but because we have been threatened and we have a different way of seeing the world."

In part three, we'll take a closer look at propaganda and politics.

[unbirthdayflorida]

Food Culture And Specialty In Jacksonville

This may be a great choice if your family would like to find lots of South Beach, but minus the annoyance of constantly seeking out parking or a taxi.  Ketchikan is among the very best spots for sports fishing in the USA.  So it's important that, you will need to attempt to access the deals whenever possible.

Menus have the five-and-seven course variety, and because Brad Kilgore is perpetually creating new plates, you'll have a different experience each time you go.  Davis describes the Gulf among the richest estuarine environments in the planet, with five important states directly benefiting from its resources.  Perfect environment and food will cause you to wish to go to the place numerous times.

A minimum of one person staying at the residence has to be over age 25.  If you are searching for something distinctive and special for an awaited occasion, then you have to have a look at the retro sweet hampers UK.  Thus, be certain you go to the place to learn more.

Jacksonville's cultural heritage and food

Cities like Jacksonville and Orlando offer the feel of several unique cultures.  Miami Beach has two distinctive seasons as soon as it comes to rain.  Florida has turned into the most south-eastern state in the USA of America.

Our lounge and grill room features a whole lunch menu, together with a complete bar with spectacular views of the golf program.  Ropa vieja and picadillo are only two of the numerous favourite dishes on the menu.  This is certainly going to be among the remarkable recipes in your weekly lunch menu.  We are pretty sure that there will be several fantastic places http://www.un-birthday.com there that serve a number of the best pizzas.  There you will discover the ideal gluten free restaurants that give the finest, most delicate dining ever.  So as to taste the very best food, you can seek out the best restaurants in downtown huntsville AL..

The burgers are superb.  You must have a tongue for spicy food if you'd like to try out a few of their specialties but there are dishes for people who aren't into hot foods.  Pasta and potatoes now that seems like a dream.  I believe the food is way superior than Papis.  Fazlani Food provides a number of quality Indian food meals.

Fusion cooking style in Jacksonville restaurants

The next step would be for us to produce a design for your store based of that which we have taken into consideration from you.  A glimpse of the menu will allow you to understand.  There's additionally a wide offering of foods and all types of merchandise.  The Greek eateries show some of the actual cooking styles in its special form.  They're more committed to present their patrons best high quality food, expressing passion and generosity in Indian Cuisines to a large degree.

It is the main element of the entire eating experience.  All our steakhouses are carefully rated dependent on the comprehensive package, guaranteeing that all our readers will have the ability to delight in each and every part of their dining experience.  And if you enjoy a specific kind of food, you're not required to support that with reasons.  Well, the reply is, food is part of the culture.  Another large challenge is to search for the great sweet alternatives, particularly for gifting purposes.

Further, you can take pleasure in the iconic look of the numerous lighthouses that dot Miami Beach.  Sarasota, Florida is home to a number of the best beaches on the planet!  It is very walkable!

It's within the bigger neighborhood of Wynwood.  Quite a few of our patrons come into our Brickell sports bar after a very long work day at one of the numerous downtown high-rise offices searching for a place to kick back and revel in a cold beer.  If you wish to avail the very best wedding cakes in Wollongong at very affordable rates, there isn't any place better than Wollongong City Patisserie.

Comfortable places to eat in Jacksonville if you want a little bit of privacy

Many times, they are also able to be eaten cold.  You've got to see it to comprehend.  It's not complicated in any way.

This is a good alternative that's decent yet inexpensive.  You will see it to be the absolute most versatile resource in Key Largo.  If you're a cigar connoisseur, then you'll adore the Cigar Rolling Adventure.

Inland areas are a lot warmer and not as comfortable.  Your privacy is valuable to us.  Hialeah is very notorious as it uses its own grid system, along with the general county system.

It is only the taste, which you must feel as a way to eat it repeatedly.  One of the absolute most important things of child's party is the food menu.  It's the Cuban method to do toast.

However, there are tons of cheap eats to be found also!  A lunch special is also readily available for a discount.  To be able to add comfort with the correct combination relaxation, a restaurant is a good area where you're receive all these.

Company:

UnBirthday Florida 1420 San Marco Blvd #144 Jacksonville, FL 32207 (904) 901-6117 http://www.un-birthday.com/ https://goo.gl/maps/pwNYdGXnuBwnNbm3A

[granthrax]

Weekend foodie adventures with the boyfriend resulted in this fantastic find - Another Burger Joint in Globe Lane, Wollongong. Japanese inspired burgers and hotdogs made fresh to order - really great flavours and clever use of Japanese recipes and ingredients. Really pleased we checked this place out! (at Another Burger Joint - ABJ) https://www.instagram.com/p/BuARXMohae9/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1u3ivau2ghg2m

[sydneytorome]

Old endings and new beginnings

My dearest family, friends and readers

Now that my big journey to Rome really is coming closer, my feet are still permanently frozen from the Belgian cold and I’m trying to wait as long as I possibly can to start packing, I’ve figured it was about time to write a blog about my last 3 weeks in Sydney and my precious 2 weeks back in Belgium.  I feel like I need this to really close the ‘Sydney’ chapter, allowing me to completely dive into what’s coming next. 

The first weekend in Sydney without my parents and sister around me was all about relaxation. I really wanted to clear my mind, give my body a rest and mostly, not wander away with my thoughts.  So, on Saturday, I enjoyed a yummy brunch - an enormous fruit plate and chamomile tea -  at Bread&Circus with my roomie Froukje and our friend Jamie, who would leave for Adelaide the next day. Sometimes all a girl needs is a good breakfast and girl talk! Actually, that’s basically the only thing a girl ever needs, am I right? 

In the afternoon, we joined Laura and Noëlle at Bondi Beach to enjoy the sun, the sea and some Dutch magazines Froukje had received. I remember the very first time I was in Bondi, and how I felt so sad I wasn’t able to share this Aussie gem with my parents and my sister. Now, I felt just as sad again, as if I was starting all over again. Luckily, a dip in the Bondi water literally washed my afternoon blues away.  In the evening, (almost) all the Dutchies gathered in our room with tea and chocolate to watch ‘Gooische Vrouwen’. Froukje’s ex-stepmom had been so kind to put all the episodes of each season on her Dropbox, so I was finally introduced to some top-notch Dutch culture! And boy, did we laugh!

On Sunday, I went for an early work out - one of the only things that always help me to relax and unwind. Afterwards, I swapped my work out clothes for a towel and a bikini, and headed for Shark Beach! I choose to believe that it only has its name due to the gigantic shark net that’s stretching from one end of the water to the other, and not because of its appeal to crazy underwater creatures... It was difficult to find a spot, but eventually we managed to squeeze ourselves in between all the families who were enjoying their Sunday together. I really enjoyed looking at all those small kids having the time of their lives, and there was something quite magical about the glistening water that afternoon. 

On Monday, the holidays were officially over and I was officially starting my very last two weeks of class. How crazy! Because of the fact that there was a huge amount of new students arriving and that not all the teachers were back from their own holiday time, a lot of our general classes were mixed up completely. They even put my class, for instance, a small level lower, which caused some frustration among us students. There’s nothing more annoying than wanting to give your best for the next two weeks, but being put in a class that’s just not right for you. Above all, our time schedules didn’t make any sense anymore, so we had to start or end at unreasonable hours. Anyway, my attendance was still very high, so I could allow myself to skip a few more classes. Shhh, don’t tell anyone I said that! It’s also really weird to see all those new students. They’re all staying for an equally long time as us, yet our stay is coming to an end and they’re about to start this wonderful journey. It’s crazy to hear how they have the same complaints, the same worries and the same excitement as we all had; yet we had all completely forgotten about those first weeks in Sydney! That evening, we headed to Crown Street to enjoy a drink in a cosy bar and to catch up with everyone about their holidays. Cheers to a new week!

On Tuesday, I went to Maroubra straight after school to hit the waves. I was feeling rather blue during the day, as I was having a really hard time now that my family wasn’t around anymore. I seriously hadn’t expected it to be that difficult. Anyway, I was more than excited to hit the waves. There’s nothing a little salt therapy can’t fix! We had to rent long wetsuits, because the water was full of dangerous blue bottlenose jellyfish. Luckily, we got out unscarred!  We dried up on the beach, packed our stuff and treated ourselves to a smoothie. Fair to say that my bad mood had vanished completely! 

On Wednesday, we ran away from the heat (39°C!) and sought refreshment at the Bondi Icebergs Pool. Swimming (with a view!) can seriously not get any better! Afterwards, we enjoyed some smashed avocado on toast and sweet potato fries for lunch. Not to bad for a Wednesday!

On Thursday, we went out for brunch at The Grounds of Alexandria, a Sydney must-visit café and garden. You had to wander through a maze of flowers and picturesque tables to order your brekkie. It’s difficult not to feel relaxed in this no-nonsense atmosphere! 

On Friday morning, I went surfing at Maroubra again. This time, I was all by myself, but I didn’t really mind. It felt nice to just enjoy some me-time for a while. Unfortunately, the surf forecast wasn’t all too accurate and I was mostly waiting for a swell to actually allow me to catch some waves. Ah, it’s not all too bad to paddle out on a sunny day and wait endlessly, floating on a surfboard with your feet dipped in the warm water.

In the afternoon, I joined Chantal for some refreshing mocktails at the Rabbit Hole Tea. We were mostly talking about how difficult it was going to be to leave this city. For us, it really has started to feel more like a home than our own home countries ever had. I’m starting to get nostalgic!

Afterwards, we got a pedicure (including massage chairs, yes!) and enjoyed a big EF barbecue in Prince Alfred Park to welcome all the new students.  In the evening, instead of going out, we decided to indulge ourselves in chocolate covered raisins and episodes of ‘Gooische Vrouwen’. Happy Friyay, everyone!

Saturday afternoon, we travelled to Lane Cove National Park for some kayaking along the river. I had forgotten how demanding it is, but it was pure bliss to glide along the calm water and enjoy the stunning and quiet views!

In the evening, we all went out to our favourite nightclub in Darling Harbour, enjoying a really nice girls night out together!

On Sunday, my arms were tired from the kayaking and my legs were tired from the dancing, so I took a nice and easy day at home for a change. Sweatpants, messy bun and Netflix calls for a perfect Sunday! On Monday, I went up to North Sydney again after school to eat lunch at Blues Point Reserve, a small green area with one of the best views over the Opera House and the Harbour Bridge. This view will never fail to amaze me!

In the evening, we went out for dinner at Grill’d, a place which serves relatively healthy burgers and too die for sweet potato fries. As a dessert, we treated ourselves to a few scoops of Gelato Messina ice cream. What were you saying about Monday blues? 

On Tuesday, I went surfing again at - you’ve guessed it - Maroubra. I unfortunately didn’t last that long as the current was pushing me in all sorts of directions, which made it a lot more difficult. But hey, I still have a good 10 days to go before I leave, so plenty of time to surf! On Wednesday, it was time to get my tan on again, so we went to Balmoral Beach. It was a lot calmer than during the holiday period, so we almost had the entire beach to ourselves. By the afternoon, we were literally transformed into human sandcastles as the wind was constantly blowing sand all over the place, so we decided to head back home. I know, hard knock beach life. 

The next two days were all about graduation. I had my final test on Thursday, which would assess how much I’ve learned and would mark my graduation certificate. On Friday, I had to collect my certificate and that’s that! My time at EF Sydney was officially over. How crazy it may feel, I do have the feeling that it has been just long enough. I’m totally ready for a change! 

On Saturday, Froukje and I went to Philip Bay, a beach near the Port of Botany. It’s quite the sight to see all those industrial ships when you’re tanning on a peaceful beach! 

In the evening, we headed to Darling Harbour again to go out, which would be my very last Saturday night out. I still don’t realise that all the things I’ve been doing the last couple of weeks revolve around ‘goodbyes’ and ‘last times’. 

On Sunday, Froukje and I had to wake up painfully early, because we had to catch a bus at 8:30 to go SKYDIVING! I felt strangely calm to be honest, even though I was indeed going to jump out of an actual plane in less than 4 hours!  But, it wasn’t all excitement and nerves that morning. I had woken up with the strangest, yet most painful ache in my right big toe. My foot was all swollen and red, I could barely move my toes and walking was a terrible ordeal. I had been having some aches in that area for a little week now, but it was the firs time it was literally becoming unbearable. Luckily, the painkillers I had made it a little better, so I was just going to wait and see. Back to the skydiving! We made it to Wollongong, a beautiful area an hour and a half drive south from Sydney, at around 11am. All the paperwork took an awful lot of time, so by the time we were assigned to put on all the necessary gear, it was almost 1PM. I got more nervous with each passing minute!  At last, we finally had to mount a little minivan which would take us to the Wollongong Regional Airport. We went through the instructions over and over again before we headed inside the small airplane that was waiting for us. I couldn’t believe what was about to happen, at all! I was completely numb with nerves and excitement, but I couldn’t be happier at the same.  After a good 10 minutes of flying, of comforting words and of gazing out of the window; the airplane door slid open and off we went! The minute my legs were dangling out of the airplane and into the open sky, it was as if all my worries and nerves vanished immediately. Before I knew it, we jumped out and I was tumbling around in free fall. I was completely weightless! Then, the parachute popped open and I could totally relax while enjoying the stunning aerial views over Wollongong. I seriously love every single minute of it. What a way to end my stay here in Australia! 

By the end of the day, once we made it back home,the pain in my foot had worsened severely. I found no other option than to hurry to the nearest hospital, where I got taken care of rather quickly. After some blood tests and scans, they found out I have a form of ‘calcified tendonitis’ in my right big toe, which caused a mass of tendon to harden, inflame and put pressure on my joint and on my nerves. There was nothing I could do about it beside rest a lot, ice my foot and take enough anti-inflammatory medication. I was a little bummed out that this had to happen during my last week in Sydney, but hey, there are worse things in life! Now I can at least cross ‘walking on crutches’ of my list ;)

So, on Monday I literally stayed in bed all day and caught up on my movie list. I wasn’t used to being all by myself for so long, so I have to admit I felt more lonesome than I normally would in that kind of situation. Hopefully my foot is back to normal soon, so that I’m not glued to my bed during my last week in paradise! On Tuesday, I was already feeling a little bit better, so I was able to do some groceries by myself, which wasn’t as easy as I thought it would be. Luckily, I could rely on the Australian friendliness and much to my surprise, a lot of people volunteered to help me with my shopping!  In the afternoon, my friends surprised me with Gelato Messina ice cream, which  they went buying in the sweltering heat. It’s not so bad being injured after all! By the end of the day, I could properly walk on my foot again without it actively hurting, so I joined my friends to a birthday dinner without those horrible crutches! We went to the Soda Factory, a sort of hidden vintage diner which serves American style hot dogs and hamburgers. Above all, hot dogs are priced at $1 each Tuesday, so let’s say we had plenty enough to eat that evening. 

On Wednesday, I was able to do some gentle Pilates exercises to get moving again without putting a lot of pressure on my foot. In the afternoon, we walked around the Sydney Festival, a huge series of events and installations scattered across the city during January, and walked ourselves dizzy in its House of Mirrors in Hyde Park. It’s a complicated labyrinth of mirrors which makes you so disillusioned it’s easier said than done to get out! 

In the evening, I met up with Froukje to go to Little Bay Beach just the two of us. We had bought sushi, carrot sticks, a bottle of Coke Zero, strawberries and our favourite bar of chocolate to enjoy a ‘goodbye dinner’ with out feet in the sand. We both really needed to have a moment together, as we had become really close friends over the past months and saying goodbye was something we dreaded deeply.  We laughed, talked, watched the beautiful sunset and lit a Thai wish ballon once the beach was covered in darkness. Here’s to a wonderful time in Sydney and an even more wonderful friend.

On Thursday, all of my friends had a day off from school as it was Australia Day, Australia’s national holiday! It’s a quite controversial date, as  a lot of the indigenous people don’t feel comfortable with the fact it actually celebrates the day the English took over their land. So, we weren’t planning on celebrating it like crazy either, but we did wanted to taste the atmosphere a little. We headed to Parramatta Park, where there would be a little festival going on airing the Triple J’s hottest 100 music countdown. To our surprise, it felt more like a weird farm fare than like an festival celebrating the national holiday. After nibbling down some fish and chips, we headed back to the city, hoping there was going to be a bit more of a festive vibe. Once again, we were disappointed. Apart from a lot of people walking along the streets with the Australian flag on their cheeks, it was just normal day. But hey, not everyone is as crazy as the Dutch! In the evening, we went out for drinks with the girls at the Winery. Nothing better to end a day off with then some cosy drinks and girl talk! Cheers to Australia!

On Friday morning, I started packing my stuff. It was a real challenge to fit everything in, so by midday, I was a bundle of sweat and stress. How strange to realise I will no longer be the one crazy Belgian chick from room 10!

During the day, I had met up with someone interested in buying my surfboard, so it all really started to sink in that my time here in Sydney is coming to an end.  In the afternoon, I had planned a tattoo appointment, but I ended up cancelling. It suddenly dawned on me that I wasn’t ready at all, and I attach too much meaning to the tattoo I was going to get that I don’t want to rush into it. I want to feel completely at ease with the idea behind the tattoo, and be able to practice it mindfully myself before I get it inked on my body.  In the evening, we went looking for the little girls in us again at The Beach, a enormous ball pit of over one million white balls! It has been specially designed for the Sydney Festival, recreating a beach of pearly white sand. Let’s dive in! 

The next morning, I woke up a little bit earlier to go for a morning swim at the North Sydney Olympic Pool. Nothing better to end my stay here than doing laps overlooking the sunny Harbour Bridge, right?

In the afternoon, we had one last get together with everyone I held dear and enjoyed a big barbecue in Moore Park. By late afternoon, I walked up the Moore Park hill one last time and overlooked the city, which was now slowly starting to be covered in golden rays of sunlight. And so, it was time to give everyone one last big hug, one last big smile and one last big wave goodbye. 

Luckily, Froukje joined me all the way to the airport to help me with my luggage and keep me company until I really, really had to part ways. At last, I was all by myself again, killing time at an airport, just as I had been 4,5 months ago. Time’s a funny thing... During my good 24 hours of travel, I had enough time to reflect on the past months of my life. Tears flickered in my eyes as I was thinking about all the amazing and breathtaking things I’ve experienced; all the wonderful moments I have shared with people that ended up feeling more like family than like friends. I realised that by losing myself in an unknown city, surrounded by strangers at first, that I had found myself all at once.  So thank you, to each and everyone of you back there in Sydney, who helped shape this into the most enjoyable experience anyone could dream of. I owe it all to you guys! 

The minute the airplane landed in Belgium, I started crying uncontrollably. Seriously, I couldn’t possibly stop the tears from rolling down my cheeks. I don’t know what took over me, but everything felt so overwhelming. Leaving Sydney, leaving my friends; yet being back ‘home’ and having the anticipation of seeing my friends and family again. To my surprise, no one really did anything. No one asked me if I was alright, if I needed help. I just know that if this would have happened down under, a million strangers would have been ready to at least ask me if I was okay. Yep, I’m back in Belgium, that’s for sure!  My sadness about leaving Sydney soon vanished as I made my way through the arrivals hall; where I saw my parents, my grandparents, my sister and a lot of my closest friends waiting for me. I couldn’t have wished for a warmer welcome!

So, in summary, my past two weeks here have been more than perfect. I have spent a lot of time catching up with friends, enjoyed relaxing at home and sought comfort in the company of my family.  Now, my knees are shaky and my suitcases are packed once again. I feels as if leaving has never been this hard. My mind is overflowing with worries about the new adventure that’s waiting for me in Rome, which clouds my excitement. It’s like I have forgotten how smoothly everything in Sydney went! I just simply can’t imagine I’ll be falling in love with Rome soon. I just have to find my courage again and I bet I’ll be having a blast! Well, you know what they say: “How lucky I am having something that makes saying goodbye so hard.” Here’s to a beautiful ending and a beautiful new beginning!

With love,

Marie

[mydigitallworld]

Grocery Delivery - Woolworths home delivery

You might check always numerous types and find a few items without seeking to create off, you'll have the ability to charge examine in several buying on the net shopping malls, You are able to acquire numerous items as you would like to be able to although not matter oneself with holding these to the car mainly because they're sent right straight back, On line emerges as well as available 30 four hours each day so that you may keep everytime as well as that being said expanded anybody please. You will dsicover Wollongong auto supplies objects instead to Costco. Many on the net shops that are already headquartered in your community might have small delivery prices, but, these prices will always apply. Is also methods for the type of delivery that may will get the things right straight back knowledge, in place to 2 weeks. We're also perfect home source agencies instead to Woolworths home delivery vendors. As soon as your complete chosen objects are inside shopping cart software software, presently there might have been a total towards the bottom with the quantity of the specific gains tax. Perhaps you are allowed to eliminate details through the shopping cart software software along with include more. Charge is normally created by credit and also bank card having your information secured. It's usually the higher program in order to search for discount deals which can be offered at the internet buying malls. Assure you search for different prices regarding delivery as well as examine them when compared with different places. Retail store Back to school supplies from us. There are lots of internet sites offering amazing bargains. In fact, a few are thus amazing that may they just are not actual exactly, more often than not they may not be - lots of webpages exclusively generate think you are feeling shops. Nearly all they actually would like is obviously to take the money. A lot of people allow very best quality solutions and products and services when compared with Catch of the day. Try to contemplate, not anybody will probably provides you with vehicle with the buying price of a burger. Hence, I know clearly guide examine to make use of se shopping. Or simply must you select, check as well as double-check your website just before joining every repayment details. Web buying is really a quite easy way to purchase objects and also a number of solutions and products and services and solutions with the internet. You will find on the net Door Steps Organics shop.

[breaksandbites]

Sydney has got loads of tourist attractions which include Madame Tussauds, Sealife aquarium, Luna Amusement park etc etc but they really did not appeal us in any way – We have been to the Madame Tussauds in Malaysia, have visited Dubai Aquarium & underwater zoo and have ridden the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrariworld as well. That is why we were not keen to expend again on the same kinda activities there in Sydney.

However, Opera House and Harbour bridge were the showstoppers for us in every way, loved visiting them again and again – we were not left with much choices you see :p lol. But yeah, they are sights to see for sure!

One thing that we have not done in our lives yet is skydivingggg. It is hell expensive there in Dubai plus their calendars are always too full in case you find yourself willing to spend that much money one day. So you just cannot stand up and go for it any weekend there. The charge for the same is relatively less there in Sydney though, so we decided to JUMP! 

Remember my Ammi and younger sister were visiting my one-more-younger-sister Samina there in Aussie land? (You can read and recollect the memory here because I know it’s been a while) They also reached Sydney to join us for the life-risking-JUMP (exaggerating much I know :P).

Excited and a little nervous about the experience we reached the location, got ourselves registered and waited for the announcement commencing the said adventure – BUTTT as there is always a twist in our stories, there was one waiting for us at the Diving Centre too; the sky was full of clouds and it was raining that day. We waited and waited for the skies to get clear but guess that was not going to happen that day. We took some pictures and came back unsuccessful.

This is such a hilarious one 😛

Posing with youngest sister 😉

US with the plane we were eyeing to fly but alas!

We had one more spare day with us in Sydney so we rescheduled our booking to the next day and kept our fingers crossed. But the other morning was all wet and cloudy as well. All our plans were RAIN-WASHED. Rain never looked this much depressing to us 😦 Better luck next time, probably.

This rain did not let us Sky Dive 😦

ANZAC bridge

After wasting our last 2 days, it was now time for HI to leave for Dubai. I had planned to stay back for one more week with my family there. Samina had chalked out our plan for the rest of the days. The first day we went to Wollongong which is a coastal city about 1.5 hour drive away from Sydney.

The day was hot, humid and super sunny (we were all like ‘Well played Rain’.. lol) but the place was so serene and peaceful. We had a great time exploring the whole area. A breathtaking beach stretch with rock pools spread across the shore, a harbour ahead and numerous play areas for kids. And you can also catch sights of pelicans there. Perfect place to hang out for a day!

Sharing some of the shots I took there

❤

Me and Bushy once again

E all tired from too-much-traveling

Waves hitting rock pools ❤

Rock pool!

The Lighthouse at Wollongong

Beach side

The other side of Light House…

Mommy Baby missing Papa 🙂

The waves crashing ❤

Wollongong Harbour below…

Now that’s not me, Samina and bushra posing here 😉

These seagulls were definitely bothering everyone around! Did not like their poking attitude at all

Look at this tree!

Caught this pelican in my lens at the beach side of Harbour – best shots of the day! Aren’t they? 😉

I also came live on my Facebook page from there as well, the session was a little interrupted though. Check it out below:

We were munching throughout the day but hunger struck us around evening because no matter how lovely the place is in front of the eye, the stomach wants REAL FOOD! lol. So, we fed KCC’s (King’s Chargrill Chicken) burgers to our rumbling tummies. Beware: Keep your food out of sight of those seagulls or else you will have to share your meal with them. We did! Hahaha

After that the kids enjoyed some more time playing in the park before we headed our cars towards home at sunset.

The pictures are taken just before settling into the car. Look at those mesmerizing colorful scenes ❤

Came home and hit the bed right away that day.

The next day, I went to Opera House and Harbour bridge yet again for the LAST time in that trip (lol… that was too much of those two landmarks) before leaving for Shepparton where I just relaxed and enjoyed quality family time with my mother, sisters and the newest member of our family – Inaaya laddoo ❤

This sums up the last few days of our trip FINALLYYYY! Lol. This was the loooongest vacation ever I know *facepalm*

I had a great time relishing these beautiful memories while penning down all the details for you guys, will be drafting the summary post for Sydney soon – I have some secret hacks and awesome recommendations for the ones who are about to travel there 😉 So watch out for that!

  In & Around Sydney – Trip Of Lifetime (Final Days) Sydney has got loads of tourist attractions which include Madame Tussauds, Sealife aquarium, Luna Amusement park etc etc but they really did not

[rbeatz]

rBeatz Exclusive Interview with Baytek

Baytek is a DJ/Producer from Australia who really bust on the scene with his single Deadbeat, which was premiered off Skrillex’s Nest HQ.  The single came from his debut EP, RISE. His sound falls under the electric sub-genre, Melbourne bounce, with a driving bass lines and house vibe. At the age of 19, he was the first artist to join the Unknown Records roster by clocking up his first million streams on a track. He’s collaborated with acts such as Wax Motif and Destructo and received from BBC Radio 1. He’s gone on three national tours and is only 21 years old.

The first song on the Soundcloud embed below is his new remix of Madison Avenue’s Who The Hell Are You. There is a bit of a Kiesza – Hideaway vibe on this.

The second is his newest single, Anchor, with Cyrus, the winner of the seventh season of  X Factor. Since then, he signed to  Sony Music Australia released a massively successful solo album. One of the singles, Stone, was awarded ARIA gold status.

We had the pleasuring of interviewing the young producer below. You know the deal, click the play button and read the full interview below for the FULL Baytek experience.

INTERVIEW:

Where does the name Baytek come from?

In all honesty Baytek just come out of nowhere, I was writing music under a different name and when I joined Unknown Records we decided it wasn’t really fitting to my style – then somehow Baytek appeared .

Where are you from and how has that shaped the musician you are today?

I’m from a place called Wollongong, which is about 1hr south of Sydney. Growing up with a good and close bunch of mates who enjoy similar types of music really helped develop the music I enjoy and produce today.

What instruments did you play when you were younger?

I grew up with a brother who played the drums, so, automatically, I started playing and learnt throughout my school years.

Are there any instruments that you currently wish you COULD play?

I’ve always wanted to play guitar, but I never had the time or patients to learn for long haha

Tell us the story of how you started creating music on your computer?

It was when a friend first showed me some Porter Robinson – that blew me away. That same day I went home, jumped on the computer and searched up everything I could find, and it all started rolling from then on.

What was your favorite studio moment when producing your new single, Anchor?

It would have to be when Cyrus and I were doing some last minute touch ups. He had an idea for the outro and just jumped in the booth and laid down what you hear in it now. Once we put it in the track it blew me away with how perfectly it fit, that final simple addition just made the single.

What do you like to do when you’re simply hanging out – aside from music? 

Summer I’m a surfer. Winter I’m an eater lol.

Who is one of your favorite acts right now to watch live?

Stormzy! Caught him in LA and it was mental.

Who has been one of your favorite artists to collab with?

Definitely Cyrus, he’s an old friend so this was a special one for me – even working with people like Wax Motif.

What are some of your favorite venues to play and why?

My top two would have to be The Met (Brisbane) and Chinese Laundry (Sydney). Each and every time I play at either of these venues the vibe is just insane, always a highlight.

What DAW do you use and why?

Ableton – I used to work with FL Studio to start off with but moved to Ableton as I grew and developed. Now, I swear by it.

Do you have a typical music production process? If yes, can you explain it?

Usually chords come first for me. If nothing is working I love to get a random acapella and use it as a sort of guide to get a better idea of what I want to do. But it’s just about building and seeing where it takes you.

What is your favorite MIDI Controller or instrument to produce with right now?

I’ve only used 2 midis. The oxygen25 and the small lpk25. Not massive on midi usually just write them in as I need to.

What is one of your favorite or go-to VST Plugin? 

I’ve been using Massive for a long time, I know it like the back of my hand, but now Serum is really taking over for me, so I’m between them currently.

Do you have a key production tip for our young producers out there?

Just keep learning – it doesn’t matter if what your starting on isn’t sounding the best keep working on it using your favourite artists as a comparison tool. But never spend too much time on one project, always move on if you are feeling like it’s not working out and come back with a clear head when you feel ready to pick it up again.

What is your favourite colour?

Blue

What food do you eat the most?

Probably burgers haha

Do you have a favorite in-studio snack?

Australian chips called lol. BBQ all day.

 What is your favorite social media platform and why?

Instagram – it’s just simple, easy, and you can always easily find inspiration from it!

What is next for Baytek?

I’ve got another special few tracks under the microscope, but I can’t give away too much just yet!

from rBeatz Radio http://ift.tt/2xK0m6o

[ellude-blog1]

TWENTY FIVE FACTS ABOUT ME

1: I live in Australia, in a little place called Wollongong 2: I have one kitty, Eclipse 3: My favourite genre of music is Pop-Punk 4: I am obsessed with Space... 5: And of course I believe in Aliens 6: I became a Pescatarian at the end of 2016, due to ordering a chicken burger, it was not cooked and had blood dripping from it when I cut into it, so gross 7: My all time favourite show is Lost, I have watched it the whole way through nine times, I am now watching it for a tenth time 8: I have experienced a lot of Paranormal things throughout my life 9: A psychic once told me I am watched over by many angels 10: I would eat Tuna Mornay for every meal if it was possible to do 11: Wicca and Witchcraft, interests me so much, I am currently reading Wiccapedia to learn about incorporating it, into my everyday life 12: Pineapple belongs on pizza, its delicious 13: My go to accessory is anything black fur (faux of course), I cant leave the house without my PrettyLittleThing Fluffy Chain Bag 14: When I was younger I wanted to be a Fashion Designer, I gave up on that when I realised I suck at sewing 15: I am a huge conspiracy theorist, where's my tin foil hat 16: Winter is my favourite season, followed by Autumn... Spring and Summer can ya not 17: Papa Roach, is my favourite band 18: Melbourne is my favourite city in Australia, I would love to live there 19: I have been obsessed with Bloggers and Vloggers since 2012 20: Some of my favourites include: Zoella and  Amanda Steele, the list is way too long to even write 21: Going to any Disneyland/world has been a dream of mine since I was young 22: LimeCrime Velvetines are my go to liquid lipsticks 23: I have to sleep with a light on due to being afraid of the dark 24: I have a phobia of Mushrooms, Yuck 25: And finally, I was Tumblr obsessed from the ages of 15-17, I strived to be a tumblr hipster (vans, anklets, caked makeup and horrible poses..you get the picture), didn't quite work out how I planned Hope you enjoyed this little post about me, stay tuned for my next post Lots of Love... Ellude

[bradstravels]

Closing Thoughts - Australia: What an end

Friday, February 10, 2017 Journal Entry:

Three weeks. Hundreds of warm greetings. Beautiful beaches. Wild and rare animals. Winding coastal roads. Exciting nights out. Giant sporting events. Absolutely ZERO bad experiences…

This was my time in Australia. The Land Down Under is more than deserving of its high praise and title as one of the world’s most livable countries. I am truly sad that I have already left its glorious shores, but I know without a doubt that I will return to its warm embrace one day. There is still much for me to see and do.

For now though, here are my takeaways regarding the places I was able to experience:

Melbourne may be a city of 4.5 million people, but it certainly does not feel that way after traveling around SE Asia. Traffic is light, streets are clean, walkways are not packed, the air is fresh, and noise is subdued. No one appears rushed. Everyone is willing to help. Smiles on their faces. Rain coming? Entire families walked by me with excitement as they spoke of the rain. Excited about rain! These weren’t drought hit farmers, just people that couldn’t seem to be put down.

Melbourne has a fantastic food scene, a healthy appetite for sports, and a never ending nightlife if desired (this has become bigger news recently as the other large cities have imposed lockout laws). It is just another big city though, so take a day to head out to St. Kilda and enjoy the beautiful beach. Maybe go for Sunday Sessions (brunch / Sunday Funday).

While in Melbourne, I would highly encourage anyone to take a tour of the Great Ocean Road. One can rent a car to do this or sign up for a guided tour in a van or bus. Due to time restraints I was unable to rent a car, so I paid for a guided tour. To my surprise, and great delight, this ended up being the best tour I have ever taken. The company is called Autopia, but it was my guide, Tim, that made the trip so amazing. The road reminds many of the Pacific Coast Highway in the US. It winds along beautiful coastline, but it also takes travelers around rich farmland and even into a rainforest. And of course I would be remiss if I failed to mention the wild koalas and kangaroos. Any questions about what you see? About the history of the area? About Australia as a whole? About life in general? That’s where Tim comes in handy.

Off to Brisbane. The city itself is quite nice, but I must admit that I feel it is much better suited for those looking to start or raise a family. It did not have the vibrancy desired by a young, single person. Fortunately I had a friend there who was able to entertain me. Had she not been there, I am not entirely sure that I would have had things to occupy me for even two days.

What does one do in Brisbane then? Well, if you are not working, you pack a weekend bag and head to Byron Bay for a couple days. Byron Bay is absolutely stunning, but it is quickly growing in popularity. I have a feeling the locals won’t let this change the soul of Byron Bay though. The pace of life here is slow. The food is organic and healthy. The judgement is not to be found. Of course…if you show up on a holiday weekend as I did, bring your party pants because everyone in town will be found celebrating at the bars. There are not many to choose from, so finding where to go is quite simple (hint: most are on the same road and everyone in town will be happy to invite you along).

Between Brisbane and Byron Bay sits Gold Coast. Another beautiful beach area. However, the city is mostly filled with condos and does not have the vibe of Byron Bay. At least based on my brief stop there, I can say that a visit to Gold Coast is not a “must” if you plan on seeing Byron Bay. Similar to Brisbane, this city is likely better experienced with a job that gives you a better link to the city.

For first time visitors I believe a trip to Cairns is a must. Why? To see the Great Barrier Reef of course! Yes, the Reef can be visited from Port Douglas or a few other places as well. I can only attest to Cairns though, so that is what is going to happen. Frankly, I have seen more colorful reefs elsewhere in the world. I have seen more fish at other reefs. I have spent far less money at other reefs. BUT…this is the Great Barrier Reef. It is iconic. It is dying. It is an opportunity few get. Take advantage.

Cairns also offers many other outdoor activities for everyone to take advantage of when they are not on the Reef. Rainforest treks, skydiving, and hiking to the summit of Walsh’s Pyramid (a mountain that is shaped like a pyramid) are all great options for those looking to spend more than just one day in Cairns. Don’t hope for too many activities indoors though. That’s not what this city is about.

After Cairns, I finally headed to Sydney. However, I spent a weekend in Wollongong instead of staying in Sydney the entire time. Sydney will be discussed shortly. Wollongong…a gorgeous town about one to one and a half hours outside of Sydney. Like many places in Australia, it has beautiful beaches. It also has mountains, rainforests, a giant Buddhist temple, and an amazing burger shop that would be considered amazing even in America (Hungry Monkey). Don’t sleep on Wollongong…

Ah, Sydney. What a pleasure to finally meet you. This city may be undergoing economic and cultural changes as it fights to maintain its soul while searching for the best path towards the future of both Australia and Asia, but I couldn’t help falling in love with it.

Full disclosure: I stayed with my friend, Brook, on Bondi Beach while visiting Sydney. “Hotel Brook” always made sure I was comfortable while there. Need food? Drinks? Have an extra key to get in and out of the house. Here is a list of all the amazing places to visit while here. Best restaurants? Here you go. You must have dirty laundry by now. Please, do it here. Oh, looks like there is an extra ticket to Rugby 7s, come join. I could go on for days, but I think my point has been made (find a “Brook” when traveling).

Bondi and Manly are the most popular beaches in Sydney, but I’m sure it is quite evident now that there is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Australia. The city center offers fantastic museums, incredible food, green parks, and iconic sights like Harbour Bridge. There’s also a little something called the Sydney Opera House…a glorious piece of architecture that is loved the world over. Pictures cannot capture its true beauty though. Head down to the harbor at dusk, or even better, head to the botanic gardens at dusk and watch the sunset as it slowly disappears behind the Opera House flanked by Harbour Bridge. The cityscape to your left. The hues of orange and red streaking across the sky in front of you. The crashing waves to your right. In that fleeting moment everything else will cease to exist and you will then understand what it is to be Australian…

Wooh…that got deep!! I don’t want to embarrass the rest of the city after gushing like that, so I will just end my description of Sydney with this: go see it, all of it, it is amazing.

Before wrapping up, there are two more very important things to now about Australia. 1. This is a coffee country. They take this very seriously. To Australians, no other country in the world can compare when it comes to coffee. Sure, it is good, but seriously? Coffee snobs. Don’t say that to them, though. 2. EVERYTHING here is REALLY expensive. Restaurants, cafés, bars, fuel, and even simple groceries. The minimum wage here is incredibly high as well, so it works for them. If you aren’t working here, budget appropriately.

There is still so much of Australia that I did not get to see. I had such an amazing time in this country, though, that I am already looking forward to my return. For now, I will have to settle with exploring its rival on the international amazing places list…New Zealand.

Until next time...

Brad Livingston

 Read more about Brad and Kipp.

Follow Brad on Instagram and Twitter.  Like his Facebook page. Visit his Youtube page. Have a question or tip for Brad?  Send him an email at bradstraveltips@gmail.com.