Back in Australia, I continued my journey up the east coast by spending time in 3 spots:

 

Brisbane

I arrived back in Brisbane for two days. My roommates in the hostel were a lot of fun! During the day we went to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary where we got to hold koalas and feed kangaroos. I was easily the most excited person there; I could not stop smiling! This was partially due to the fact that when you feed the kangaroos, their gums can be really ticklish. In the evening, we cooked dinner together and explored the city at night.

 

 

 

Whitsundays

After Brisbane, I flew to Airlie Beach, where I checked into a hostel that was similar to a mini resort. And my first with not one, but two pools! But people don’t visit Airlie Beach for the hostel; they go for the Whitsundays. The Whitsunday Islands are a group of 74 islands which stretch from the northeast coast all the way to the Great Barrier Reef.

 

I booked a day boat trip out around the Whitsunday Islands that stopped at Whitehaven Beach. All of the travelers I met that had explored the east coast of Australia mentioned this particular beach, so I was excited to see it. The crystal clear waters and pristine silica sand was unreal, and I instantly knew why everyone spoke so highly of this stop. The trip also included a snorkeling session!

 

 

Cairns

After a few relaxing days in Airlie Beach, I hopped on an overnight bus to Cairns (which felt like no time at all since I slept the whole way). Cairns is the main tourist area to stay in when visiting the Great Barrier Reef. I checked into my hostel, which had a great pool, bar and club attached to it.

 

To ensure I got to spend some quality time at the Great Barrier Reef, I booked a two day/one night snorkeling and diving trip. The boat trip included five snorkeling sessions, and I attempted an introductory dive. This is where I wish I had a great story to share but it turns out I was unable to equalize my ears when submerging and therefore could not dive. I did however, explore the reef in shallow areas where freediving to the bottom was not an issue. They also let me get on the platform at night to get close to the fish and sharks. Overall I am really glad I was able to try something new!

 

 

Back in Cairns for three days, I spent my time swimming, partying and relaxing with some awesome fellow travelers. I’m starting to get used to this lifestyle! I also spent some time booking my onward journey.

 

So it’s now the end of my time in English-speaking countries for a while. I’m really excited to get to Southeast Asia!

 

Farewell (again) Australia.

Next up, two weeks in Bali!