Tuesday, January 23, 2007

Last Stop: Cairns

We got to Cairns last night - the final major city destination in our eastern coast journey through New South Wales and Queensland. We went as far north as Daintree Village - but decided not to cross the river to get to Cape Tribulation. Instead we tried a climb up Walsh's pyramid (not realizing it would be a hike straight up the mountain) and enjoyed a nice thai dinner in the city. Thus far it's been mostly car snacks and bread - so it was nice to feel like we were getting a real meal. The best meal so far was at the Sanctuary Retreat near Mission Beach - where we slept overnight in the rainforest (in a hut). This place was a splurge and completely relaxing - highly recommended for anyone needing a rest.


Today we took a day tour to the Great Barrier Reef - and Christina tried her hand (fins?) at snorkeling for the first time - and apparently also her first time in the ocean or in that deep water. In as much as she tells me nearly every day that she can't swim despite years of swimming lessons, I just don't really believe her. Luckily the person waving her arms in desperation and trying to scream 'help' but couldn't b/c of so much water in her mouth was NOT Christina (and fyi this other asian girl was quickly spotted and rescued). Christina did quite well for the first time out and an ill fitting mask. We saw a few fish and coral - but enjoyed our time in the shade and looking through the glass bottom boat at giant clams and extremely large and dark blue sea stars. The images of Christina being crashed over by shallow waves on the Cay are priceless - and unfortunately only in my head as my camera was left on the boat.

I am off to Vietnam day after tomorrow - further pictures from me will hopefully be available in the next month if Tuyet's computer is available for me to use. In the mean time, check out Christina's blog/web albums to get more details about my 2 weeks here in sunny Oz.

No comments: