The World Incorporated Travel Blog

Tag: adventure

There’s Something Fishy About Hamilton Island

There’s something fishy about Hamilton Island. And no, I’m not trying to be punny or facetious since it is, well, an island that naturally has an abundance of fish.

Sometimes I do my research about a place SO WELL before I decide to travel there. Other times I see a photo, fall into a state of awe, make my travel commitment without much more thought. Such was the case with Hamilton Island. A few photos of Whitehaven Beach and a helicopter view of the tropical Whitsundays left no question in my mind – I NEEDED to see this.

Lucky for me, Hamilton Island – one of the few inhabited islands in the 74 Whitsundays – was one of the destinations I could choose for my 5 Days in Queensland trip.

I sensed Hamilton Island’s “fishiness” before we arrived. Just take a look at their website – perfectly branded and informative; Social media accounts brilliantly managed. Nearly anything I wanted to know about the island or needed to book for the island was centrally located.

Upon our arrival, all visitors were picked up on a bus from the airport and dropped off (for free) at our accommodation. A branded folder intricately stuffed with anything you’d need to know about Hamilton Island waited at our hotel. Details about every restaurant, shop, activity, hiking trail, etc. etc. was a turn of the page away. For the tech enthusiasts/paperless greenies, Hamilton Island even has its own app (I learned in Oz that “greenies” means “hippy.” I like it). Beyond the expected “things to do” guide, this app includes bus timetables, weather information, and audio tours.

Well, that’s convenient!

We discovered that we could swim in any of the nearby pools and our complementary breakfast buffet could be enjoyed at multiple restaurants [by the way, these brekky buffets were ah-mahz-ing]. Every kayak and SUP and sailboat matched with that well branded beachy blue, palm tree green, and sunshine yellow. Even the golf-carts bumped around like a happy little Utopian transportation zooming past the free shuttle service.

Everything was just too perfectly cohesive and in sync with each other. It seemed fishy. It started to feel almost… Disneyworldish (minus random characters frolicking about)… like this destination was perfectly crafted to create an enjoyable experience for its visitors….

Because it was.

It was like some Marketing Guru walked into a Hamilton Island planning meeting and said, “Don’t worry blokes, I got this.”

During the second day of feeling slightly perturbed over this paradise-esque island, we flipped on the TV (it was raining). On played an infomercial (which replayed and replayed and replayed) about Hamilton Island’s history and activities…

Hamilton Island is owned by Bob Oatley. And therefore, many of the businesses on Hamilton Island are owned by the Oatley family as well. The Oatleys are winemakers and sailors… and they purchased Hamilton Island (sounds like a good gig to me). It’s a tourist island and was developed for the purpose of… just guess… tourism! Rich guys with lots of money buying islands and making more money. Sure, there are a few people who live there, but they’re either voraciously wealthy or island workers. As far as I know.

It wasn’t always owned by the Oatleys. The island was first* possessed by Keith Williams, an entrepreneur who charged in during the 1970s to develop the island into a tourist magnet full of hotels, restaurants, a boat harbor, airport, golf course and more. He essentially laid down the blueprint/vision of Hamilton Island’s future. If there’s one thing that stands out on Mr. Williams’ resume, it’s his role in designing & developing Sea World on the Gold Coast. Theme park. Tourist destination. Okay, NOW I’m understanding the origin of the fishiness of this island…

*not, of course, including the original aboriginal island dwellers.

*(and these guys)

It seemed slightly inauthentic and forced, but that’s probably because it was – this “destination” wasn’t established organically. It was pushed there with a purpose, for… tourism! There’s nothing wrong with some good ol’ entrepreneurship to commercialize your own island into a tourist mecca. Shoot, if I had the money… But that’s why the island seemed fishy. It was so perfectly put together, so well-crafted, so designed with the tourist-escapist-mindset. I suppose I wasn’t anticipating the loudness of the commercialization. Maybe I predicted more local charm. We were completely in the company of fellow tourists enjoying their vacation and island workers catering to these vacations. Hamilton Island is a holiday island.

The beauty of Hamilton Island made me breathlessly gasp, “This place is unreal!” And then I found out the beach wasn’t exactly “real” but manmade… yep, totally unreal. Knowing the beach wasn’t natural didn’t make it less beautiful. It just built on the fishiness.

It’s a resort island, duh. Of course they’ll build their own beach! What did I expect?

Answer: See beginning of post where I’m completely taken by the beauty of the Whitsundays without doing any research. I’ve never stayed on an island completely spoiled for tourists. It was a new experience. Not a bad one, just different. No, I didn’t get to meet island locals or behold ‘daily Australian life.’ But that fishy feeling I couldn’t shake? That’s a novice resort visitor staying at her first luxury resort tourist island. And it was pretty blissful. Because I am lucky that a place like that was developed so I could enjoy a sunset like this:

The was much to do and nothing to do. We could fill our days with a million activities and excursions or relax on the beach and lounge by the pool. We could grab tinnies at the convenience store or opulently dine on oysters & champagne at a fancy restaurant. It was on Hamilton Island where I heard my first kookaburra laugh, conquered a bushwalk with incredible views, relaxed on the beach, sailed to Whitehaven, cuddled a koala, and fell more in love with the natural beauty of Queensland.

It was a little fishy, it was a lot expensive, it was brazenly touristy, but it was unpretentiously beautiful. And despite that something fishy, I really, really, really want to go back to Hamilton Island.

26 March 2015
Top of the World: Passage Peak

There’s no denying the power of a place with a view.

There’s no denying the power of a place with a view that you have to put forth a little effort to see it.

Such was the case with a hike to Passage Peak – the highest point and moderate bush walk of Hamilton Island in Queensland, Australia. It was our final non-traveling day in Oz. After a few days of steady rainfall, the morning began in a misty, tropical haze, but showed promise of clearing. Time for a bush walk. Finally.

The trail begins inconspicuously behind the Reef View Hotel. It’s rather unexpected – preparing for beautiful nature walk – and passing behind the scenes of a massive commercial building. Reminded me of that song… They paved paradise, put up a parking lot.

Halfway through the journey up, I came to the disappointing realization that I had over-estimated my fitness – it was exhausting! Despite my youth, energy & good health, this became a tiring hike. Kudos to my heavy backpack full of camera equipment & water to add to the challenge. Good thing I had a travel companion: when the backpack got too heavy, Eric took responsibility. When Eric got too hot from the backpack, it switched back to me. Teamwork. Or true love.

Amid the uphill trudge of burning thighs & calves, we admired the abundant nature of the island – flowers, butterflies, greenery. I finally fulfilled a lifelong goal of hearing a kookaburra laugh in the wild (big dreams, right?). Immediate regret bringing that “emergency” umbrella – the trees were natural umbrellas from the periodic drizzle that threatened our trek. I remained constantly over-alert throughout the hike, training my eyes to recognize movements of brown snakes or creepy spiders. Never saw them. Though we did see these sights on our ascent:

The last half mile was the confidence killer. Steep & unforgiving, by that point most of my energy had been expelled in the previous hour. Surely the top will be after the next hill. No? Okay, then the next steep climb? No? Another? OMG ARE WE THERE YET?! A family with kids laughed when they told us we still had a ways to go. Then told us if their small children could do it, we could do it. Ouch.

These “stairs” knocked the wind out of me. Not short-people friendly.

But when we arrived at the top, the views made every step worth it. The clouds cast a muted shadow over the horizon, giving a soft, ethereal view. Like Mother Nature selected her own natural filter. Like I was admiring through a sheer curtain of mist. This vantage point of the Whitsundays would have been worth ten hikes up. Seeing those islands cut like dormant tropical kingdoms through the ocean was more than any words or postcards could capture.

KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

Bring water, but remember there are no bathrooms.

Wear good hiking/climbing shoes. Flip flops are a bad choice.

Wear light & pack light. Don’t weigh yourself down.

There is a nice picnic area at one point along the trail.

Pace yourself.

See the highest point in the photo above? That’s where we hiked to. This photo was taken from the balcony at Reef View Hotel, where we began. A long trek, but worth it!

10 March 2015
Cuddling a Koala Got Personal

Koalas. Those cute, fuzzy, gray marsupials with noses like big mushrooms and mobility like a drunk baby. It’s criminal to travel all the way down under and not hug this iconic Australian animal. There are only two states in Oz that allow visitors to hold koalas, and Queensland is one of them.

Fun Fact: Did you know that “koala” is the aboriginal word for “no drink”? Because koalas feed on eucalypt leaves with a high moisture level, they usually don’t need to drink water!

We decided to wait until we arrived on Hamilton Island for this animal encounter for the sole reason that WILD LIFE Hamilton Island offers breakfast with the koalas every morning. Breakfast – our favorite (and the most important) meal of the day – WITH a koala dining companion? Sold. There’s also that warm fuzzy thought [pun intended] that WILD LIFE Hamilton Island is not just a zoo – it’s an animal rescue center.

When we entered the vicinity of the restaurant, my first thought was “Where are all the koalas?!” It took a minute of playing Where’s Waldo, but there they were, hanging out in the trees among the diners. We picked a table with a great vantage point. Though they rested in the trees like living ornaments, I couldn’t help but feel that their breakfast duty was more of an annoyance between the squealing kids and clinking of forks scraping away at the eggs, bacon, and sausage brekky. Can koalas roll their eyes? Between sleep, I swear I witnessed the koala glaring through tired, slitted eyes when dishes loudly clanged at the breakfast buffet. But if there is such a thing as relaxing with grace, these koalas were experts.

5 points if you spot the koala! Notice the sign… poor sleepy guy!

After overindulging everything on the menu, it was time for the main event: Koala cuddling. Introducing the cuddler of the day: Willow, the tiniest (& most adorable) koala resident at WILD LIFE Hamilton Island.

I’ve heard that koalas can rip faces off (True? Or no?) and those long, black claws reached out toward me with purpose; I hesitated for a minute, not knowing what to do with myself. Sorry, I’ve never received How To Hold A Koala training before! “Cradle the bottom” the keeper instructed. “Touch its butt?!” I hesitated again, feeling like I would violate poor Willow with some behind contact. Throwing reluctances aside, I ignored the thought of her discolored derriere and reached out to the adorable creature. All she wanted was something to grasp, so Willow reached longingly as she was passed along: I cradled the butt, hugged her close… and she grabbed on to the ta-ta, clutching for extra security. I guess you can say things got personal pretty quickly.

Holding Willow felt like a sack of sand plopped in a koala pillow case. She was a bottom-heavy, floppy creature. Her thick, dense fur, slightly wiry and surprisingly plush wasn’t necessarily soft, but definitely fuzzy and padded and completely cuddle-able. Willow was so cute, I didn’t even mind that she chose to go straight to second base.

Getting Groped by a Koala: Definitely bucket list worthy.

Isn’t she adorable? If I could have kidnapped her and taken her home with me, I would have. But I suppose, in a way, I did. I have the most epic professional souvenir photo of us hanging in my office cubicle. It thrills when my co-workers ask about the photo (“Is that your baby?” “Is that real?” “How did you hold a koala?!”). When my work days get dull & I dwindle to adventure-emptiness, those koala cuddling moments captured on paper prompt a smile. It inflates me with happiness… and hope that more creature friends will find their way into my travels in the future.

Is cuddling a koala something you’d like to do one day? What animals have you befriended on your travels? I’d love to hear in the comments!

6 January 2015
Getting to Know the Top 25 #EpicBucketList Finalists

Thousands entered in The Buried Life & Contiki’s Most #EpicBucketList Contest (ever) competition. Only the Top 25 point earners have a chance at the grand prize (an epic adventure from Contiki) and are vying for that “Congratulations!” email we are all anticipating on Friday. We were charged to create a 1-minute video detailing who we are/why we want to win. Sure, this is a competition, but we’re people with aligned passions & positive hearts – we’ve found camaraderie & encouragement through this amazing World Wide Web.

We aren’t just dreamers & wanderlusters, we’re doers who plan to embrace life with stars in our eyes & goals in our pockets. Who are we? Introducing the Top 25 #EpicBucketList finalists & our video submissions (pay attention, you might make a new amigo):

Samantha B. – Hamilton, Ontario

Mini Bio: I recently graduated from McMaster University and work as a Sales & Marketing rep at Rocket SEO & run kids sports programs for the City of Hamilton Recreation Division. I love coaching and playing soccer, but pretty much enjoy any activity that is high energy. I am a complete optimist & romantic and always see the silver lining in every situation. I have been blessed with an amazingly supportive family and friendships that have already lasted decades. They really mean the world to me and I work hard every day to make em all proud: P! Most would say I am easily excited & energetic, but I really just want to see it all and try everything at least once, maybe twice!
Words You Live By: Don’t sweat the small stuff!
Your Superpower: Planning, although that seems boring I am always the individual to plan trips & activities and always want everyone around me to be having the time of their life. It is very rewarding to see everyone having a blast.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: I just recently ran the Run for Hope Marathon with my best friend and although I am an active individual running for long periods of time seemed terrible. I dedicated my race to a special individual that unfortunately was taken from us way too young and her strength and endurance motivated me to keep trucking through the rain and snow.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? I really want to go to Australia, live out of my car and live the carefree life, oh and of course learn to surf.
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Bucket List Samantha B.

Francesca B. – New Jersey

Mini Bio: I’m a Fashion Merchandising student graduating THIS MAY and still not mentally ready for it. I have an absolute love for travel ever since I studied abroad for a semester my sophomore year in London. I left a little (giant) piece of my heart there. I love getting involved with as many things as possible and that’s a major drive for my bucket list. Why not do as many awesome things as you can before you die?
Words You Live By: “Life is really just beautiful moments one after right another.” -Zach Sobiech
Your Superpower: panics Uhm, I’m really good at responding to emails….BUT I WISH I COULD FLY.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Riding an elephant!
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Go on the Rickshaw Run!
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Bucket List Challenge Video!

Trish B. – Toronto, Ontario

Mini Bio: 25 y/o Canadian. Collector of stories, maker of memories. I’ll probably convince you to come on a last minute adventure, and even call in sick for you.. My passport is my favourite accessory.
Words You Live By: Always play.
Your Superpower: Flight.
Favourite Bucket List Item Completed: Saw Red Bull Rampage in person this fall. If you don’t know what that is, google it. It’s unreal.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? I’ve decided I’m heading to New Zealand this winter (for their summer), I just haven’t figured out how…
#EpicBucketList Video: Trish B’s Epic Bucket List

Amanda C. – Metro Detroit, Michigan

Mini Bio: Graduated with a degree in marketing, international studies & Spanish. Formerly president of the student body at my university, now president of my cubicle. I do marketing for a company in the insurance/banking industry but I fill my free time with blogging, learning, singing in a chorale, being a local tourist, finding adventures & enjoying craft beers (I’m looking at you, Final Absolution). I’m also obsessed with my cat. And chocolate. And travel. Definitely travel. It’s my destiny to get my own Travel Channel show.
Words You Live By: “I’d rather be ashes than dust.”
Your Superpower: Smiling. It’s contagious. And powerful.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Volunteering in China to teach English.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Go streaking in Antarctica. And collect my family history.
#EpicBucketList Video: Amanda’s Epic Rap

Tanya C. – Ottawa, Ontario – WINNER

Mini Bio: Full time Barber/Stylist/Bar industry worker. Dancer for 10yrs traveling big cities such as DC, San Diego, performing for dance showcases. Past 3yrs have been performing/entertaining onstage with big DJs such as Swedish house mafia and nervo for music festivals in home town. Past two years teaching hiphop to youth outreach programs getting kids to share the stage at out yearly showcase. Cutting hair for 3yrs, also traveling to cities such as Toronto and New York to learn new cutting techniques. I also work the front door at local clubs helping out in the industry once every week or two. If I’m not working I’m overall still being a pretty active human being; gym, rollerblading, hiking, skating.
Words You Live By: Just be. Can’t stop won’t stop.
Superpower: Having fun, making new friends, socially interacting with people by keeping them positive and happy
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: I have 3. Bartended for 3years, Traveled and seen half of Canada, Taught a hiphop class where I took my first class.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Travel to, teach and do adventures in places other than big cities.
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Bucket List Challenge (day in the life)

Christina G. – Toronto, Ontario

Mini Bio: Hello! My name is Christina and I am an undergraduate student at the University of Toronto studying Global Health and Physiology. I am a well-rounded and adventurous person; you can find me either helping the homeless and at my local hospital in the community, or attending a music festival or winter camping with my friends. I love to try new things, and most importantly, work on completing my bucketlist, which I am constantly working at completing.
Words You Live By: Seize the day.
Your Superpower: Flying.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Volunteer Trip to Kenya
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Attend Tomorrowland
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Entry for An Epic Contest

Peyton L. – Fort Wayne, Indiana – WINNER

Mini Bio: I’m 20 years old studying journalism at Indiana University.
Words You Live By: “Stay hungry, stay foolish.” – Steve Jobs
Your Superpower: beer pong
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Pull the horn on a train.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? See the Northern Lights.
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Bucket List With Buried Life Contiki

Amanda M. – Ile des Chenes, Manitoba

Mini Bio: 24 years old, going to University of Manitoba, taking environmental science, love to travel, and volunteer with animals.
Words You Live By: The more you travel the more you learn who you are.
Your Superpower: Having an animal instantly fall in love with me.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Going to Africa and hanging out with cheetahs.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Too many, most recently i want to go to Costa Rica to surf and save turtles, or go to Thailand and volunteer with elephants and also surf.
#EpicBucketList Video: bucket list

Justin M. – Sacramento, California – WINNER

Mini Bio: I love music, making videos and doing rad things.
Words You Live By: Live In The Moment.
Your Superpower: I’m Batman, so I have none.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Be part of a devinsupertramp video.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Make a living doing something I love.
#EpicBucketList Video: Justin’s #EpicBucketList Entry

Elizabeth P. – Utica, New York

Mini Bio: I’m a Junior Nursing student at Binghamton University- set to graduate in May 2016! I already have a degree in neuroscience- it is clear that I have a passion for science and health care. I would like to volunteer in the Peace Corps and become a traveling nurse full time. In my spare time I love to draw and paint-most recently picked up welding for sculpture. I’m also planning on starting my yoga certification so I can teach. It is my goal to help people by teaching yoga and as a nurse manage stress and help people through anxiety and depression through healthy habits.
Words You Live By: “Something good is going to happen to you.” My Dad always says it to remind me that things are not so bad, and there’s always something around the corner.
Your Superpower: Teleportation
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Visited Normandy- the beaches and the cemetery and memorial.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? It’s a tie between. Strike a yoga pose in every major city and country I visit! Headstands all over the globe- And write a pet friendly travel handbook- list all the pet friendly hotels and hostels as well as places to visit with your furry best friend!
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Bucket List Contest Finalist Movie

Kim P. – Napa, California

Mini Bio: Well, I have been able to do a lot on my list, like my video says. But after graduating university and getting my dream job doing what I love for an awesome company, I’ve had to put my dreaming on hold. Rent, bills, insurance, taxes, I can’t do much else right now. I love travel (I’ve been to 19 countries). I love learning. I love racing my family’s old 356 Porsche (I’m actually kinda good!). I used to be able to squat 150 pounds. I still hold two swimming records at my home pool from when I was seven. I appreciate art in unusual places and well crafted things. I also knit, weld, and can run in heels.
Words You Live By: There is always something new to learn about a culture and yourself and travel is the best way to bring it out! Superpower: Flight. To be like a bird. I just want to run off something high, jump, and soar!
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Living abroad for a year. I studied abroad in London 2011-12 and it was the best year of my life. Made amazing friends and memories.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? I would love to be a surrogate. I am kinda scared of children, but to bring a life into the word and add to someone’s family which wouldn’t otherwise be complete would be really fulfilling.
#EpicBucketList Video: Kim’s Epic Bucket List Finalist Video AKA #SolidBronzeWalken

Stephen “Bob” S. – Fleming Island, Florida

Mini Bio: So clearly my name is Stephen Bob Shapeshifter Schaefer! Haha but no actually it’s just Stephen Michael Schaefer but EVERYONE calls me Bob! I’m from Fleming Island, Florida. I’ve lived in Florida my whole life and graduated from UCF. I work with kids in an after school program being a role model for them and I’m about to become a teacher. But hopefully soon I’m going to go back to school to be a commercial pilot!
Words You Live By: I literally use this quote all the time to help motivate me to be myself and it’s by Robert Downey Jr. “Listen, Smile, Agree. And then do whatever the fuck you were gonna do anyway.”
Your Superpower: is being a wizard a super power cause EXPELLIARMUS!! If not then I’ll go with Flying.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Complete an Olympic Triathlon (1 mile swim, 26 mile bike, 6 mile run.. I did very little training haha).
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? (so hard to pick!!!) either play a real life game of where’s Waldo in a city or act in a movie with Adam Sandler.
#EpicBucketList Video: The Most Epic Bucket List Ever!

Natalya S. – Cleveland, Ohio

Mini Bio: My entire family is from Ukraine, but I was born in Rome. Came to the USA when I was a baby. Have my bachelors in biochemistry. My dream job is to become a physical therapist for a professional soccer team (Liverpool FC <3).
Words You Live By: “If they respect you, respect them. If they disrespect you, still respect them. Do not allow the actions of others to decrease your good manners, because you represent yourself, not others.”
Your Superpower: Making surprises or pulling pranks on people.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Flew to Miami just to see my favorite soccer player and England play.
What do you want to do before you die? Celebrate New Years in every major city in the world (at least Sydney, Paris, and London).
#EpicBucketList Video: The Most Epic Bucket List Contest (France) The Buried Life

Carolyn S. – New York

Mini Bio: I’m a first year emergency veterinarian learning something new every day; it’s definitely been a transformational year. I grew up in Florida and went to UF for undergrad. Between undergrad and vet school I spent time interning at a phenomenal wildlife center in Texas with cheetahs, rhinos, giraffes and a ton of other beautiful and unique animals. I got to take care of an emu named Einstein. My two biggest passions in life are traveling and animals. I’ve been to some beautiful places (Sri Lanka, India, Galapagos Islands) but there are so many more places and people I want to see and meet in this world.

Words You Live By: “The worst sin towards our fellow creatures is not to hate them, but to be indifferent to them: that’s the essence of inhumanity.” George Bernard Shaw
Your Superpower: If I could pick one – teleportation. In real life – being able to read people.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Traveling to Sri Lanka and working with elephants.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? Volunteer at a penguin conservation in South Africa (SANCCOB) and an Olympic Opening ceremony, hoping for Brazil 2016!
#EpicBucketList Video: Epic Bucket List Buried Life Video

Shaylee Z. – Denver, Colorado

Mini Bio: I’m a person who loves to fully explore life. I am exceptionally curious and, therefore, learning is probably my favorite activity after adventuring. I graduated from the University of Denver one year ago, and I currently work for 2 non-profits and lead middle schoolers in Wyld Life. I love books, Nutella, geocaching, and the movie UP. I have 2 pet mice named Poppet and Widget. I can chirp like a little bird. I am imperfect.
Words You Live By: Measure your wealth in smiles.
Your Superpower: I can instantly detect if something is crooked on a wall.
Favorite Bucket List Item Completed: Surfing on sand – which I completed this summer with my adventure buddies at Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado.
What Do You Want To Do Before You Die? This is a toss up between two of my favorite list items. It’s my dream to go on my “Great No Directions Road Trip” across North America, but I also really want to get shot out of a cannon before I die.
#EpicBucketList Video: Shaylee’s EpicBucketList

** If you’ve been counting, you probably noticed that there aren’t 25 on this list. This was just a ‘for fun’ community thing we put together and not everyone participated. These finalists are like Pokemon. But enjoy anyway! **

3 December 2014
To BL or Not To BL

The BL – Bucket List – that seemingly unfeasible list of life dreams and goals that range from rolling in every square inch of the earth to owning every breed of cat in a mansion on a lake.

Mine looks something like that – traveling and cats. Kidding… sorta. I have a Bucket List. But it’s a secret Bucket List. It’s a draft on this blog. I’ve always hesitated to publish – what if I never accomplish it? Am I a failure? What if life laughs in my face and retorts that my goals are too grand and too unattainable? What if I never have the time or money to do it all?

But I’m also a hypocrite. I don’t believe in the “keep your wish to yourself or it won’t come true” superstition. I believe that if you have a dream or goal or hope, it should be shouted loud and proud for all to hear. I believe when something is said with conviction and confidence, it’s more likely to be actualized. Holding oneself publically accountable will achieve more than simply allowing a dream to swim around in your brain matter. Because then it just stays that: a dream.

Perhaps it’s time I rethink the “keep it to myself” philosophy and share my overzealous Bucket List with the world. Or maybe I’ll rip off the bandaid slowly and highlight a few things for now…

If you follow my blog’s Facebook page, you’ll know that I’m obsessed with entering (and sharing!) travel contests. I see these contests as a means to potentially achieving my (or your!) Bucket List goals, which is why my inner contest huntress went all Nala all pounced with black eyes and drawn claws all over this one: The Most #EpicBucketList Contest from Contiki & The Buried Life.

You guys, this is the best contest I’ve seen in a while. I can’t hog it all to myself. I’ve been doing happy dances every time I dream of this coming true. Which is why I’m sharing – because if I announce these Bucket List dreams with enthusiasm, perhaps they’ll be more likely to happen.

So here are the top 5 Epic List activities I selected for the contest. I chose items that seem unattainable, will challenge my comfort zone, and will teach me something new about our marvelous world.

{PS – you can see the other Epic BucketList contest items on the website and enter your own}

Take a selfie while hang-gliding over Rio

I’ll open my arms as wide as Christ the Redeemer as I overcome my aversion to heights while gliding over the bikini-clad locals drinking caipirinhas on Copacabana. I’ll take a stab at Portuguese and stab some delicious Brazilian meats.

Sail the Greek Islands on a private yacht

Private yachts aren’t typically my style (I’m more of a peddle-boat chick – simple & inexpensive) but I would make the exception for Greece. My favorite word in the universe is Greek. But I’ll never reveal that word until I finally visit Greece and live out the meaning of that word while taking my own Odyssey to Mykonos, brushing up on mythology, and enjoying endless feta, moussaka, & ouzo.

Watch the sunrise over Angkor Wat

Ever since my service trip to teach English in China, I’ve yearned to explore other Asian countries. In Cambodia, I’d learn about another corner of the far east, eat spiders (maybe), ride in tuk tuks, stroll the bazaar and indulge in a culture very different from my own.

Swim with sharks in the Galapagos

This sounds terrifyingly exhilarating. It seems backwards to want my own personal Shark Week in the land that inspired Darwin’s ‘survival of the fittest’ philosophy. I’m probably not as fit as that shark and probably won’t survive.

See the Pyramids on camelback in Egypt

Everything about Egypt says “mystique” to me – ancient ruins, lost treasures, towering pyramids, puzzling hieroglyphics. Not only do I find ancient Egyptology intriguing, I am also curious to learn more about modern Egypt.

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If this Epic Bucket List were to become a reality, I’d get to choose a travel companion. I’d ask one of my best friends, Lara, an ethnographic filmmaker whose spirit for culture & travel is as wild as mine, to join me on the adventure. With our synergistic friendship, we’d be documenting & sharing the entire quest to encourage other Millennials to fulfill their own Bucket Lists.

We’d also have the opportunity to add our own items to the list. I’d probably like to add something that would benefit others: volunteering at an wildlife rehabilitation center, offering English lessons, delivering water & resources to people who need it most… OR maybe streaking in Antarctica. What would you put? What’s on your Epic Bucket List?

So maybe I’ll win? Or maybe not. Either way, sharing these Epic Bucket List goals has made me feel like the world is much closer to my fingertips than before I pressed “Publish.”

If you want a shot at making your Epic Bucket List a reality, ENTER HERE.

Good luck!

22 October 2014
Amanda in Kuranda

Few words rhyme with my name. Panda. Propaganda. Memoranda. Now I can add Kuranda to the list. A town in Tropical North Queensland, a visit to Kuranda welcomed a slower-paced day of moderate activity. Everyone’s adventurous spirit needs a vacation day, right? Kuranda offered the pause to sit back and observe the scenery or meander through the shops of the village, unrushed, unscheduled. After four active days in Sydney, a day trip to Kuranda was the perfect introduction to Queensland.

Here’s what we did in Kuranda:

C’mon Ride The Train

The day commenced with a leisurely 2 hour train ride from Cairns to Kuranda. This historic, mechanical chunk of machinery weaved through the rainforest, charged up the mountains and barreled through the tunnels. Incredible sights unfolded during our journey – from the roaring Stony Creek Falls to the patchwork cane fields to the lush, towering mountains. It’s easy to get lost in the setting and forget that Kuranda Scenic Railway wasn’t always a tourist attraction – it first served as a railway for mining, agriculture and passenger transport.

It took five years to build three sections of this railway including wood & steel bridges and 15 tunnels – remember, this railway was constructed from 1886-1891. Late 1800s! Before we were spoiled with technology, industrial standards and workplace safety. Yes, many men perished during the railway’s construction and the workers were expected to BYOB (bring your own bush tools). Some even worked solely with their hands. Can you imagine digging out 15 tunnels of rock and dirt with your bare hands? Interestingly, most of the workers were recruits from Italy and Ireland. Nothing like some good ol’ pasta & potatoes, eh? It was HARD manual labor. These men faced adversity from steep land grades, decomposed rock, precarious angles, brutal rainy seasons, food supply shortages, and a lack of understanding of the geology of the earth and its dangers.

That’s part of the reason this railway is considered such a feat – for its time and the elements, it’s amazing that this endeavor successfully completed. Development in the 1880s was so hasty, it was believed that many construction projects were fast tracked (pun intended), often derailing (pun also intended) adequate engineering review before plans were approved. But don’t worry – it seemed to work out for them as I lived to tell the tale of this scenic journey over a century after its maiden voyage.

A small corner of Queensland’s most photographed bridge.

The roaring Stony Creek Falls as the train slowly chugged by. I could feel the mist on my face… ahhh. They say that the governor of Queensland once came here to visit after the bride was constructed, but no speeches were made that day due to the thunder of the falls.

Soak it in…

Meander in Kuranda

Once the train arrived in Kuranda, we had quite a few hours allotted to explore. That’s the beauty of visiting this village – as a completely unscheduled part of our day, we could mosey around town as we pleased. The mango wine teased and the cafes tantalized. There are plenty of food options here. If you’re someone who is anticipating a day trip, I highly recommend checking our their website. We enjoyed strolling through the older part of Kuranda that I would dub “hipsterville.” This corner of the village of Kuranda has an edgier vibe – seemingly more artistic, alternative, colorful and communal. It’s further past the main strip of markets. When we walked through it was pretty empty – which is why I’m under the impression that not many people walk far enough to come across it. Don’t make that mistake!

He purposefully wore that shirt to match the typeface.

Birdmanda in Birdworld

While there are various places to visit in Kuranda for an entry fee – Butterfly Sanctuary, Koala Gardens ,etc. – only Birdworld made our itinerary. I mean, I had to stay true to my nickname, Birdmanda (I’ll save the story for later – but it involves the rapper Birdman & Canadian Geese on Belle Isle). Birdworld was smaller than I expected, but not so small that I’d consider it inhumane. These birds seemed to contently fly around the enclosure, snagging food from the hands of visitors. It was so fun to interact with these birds up close. One bird foe even decided to gnaw on (and break!) my awesome f-stop backpack. Rude! These are my favorite photos from Birdworld:

A casual bro nod? Or friends of a feather?

Backpack biter… brat bird

I’ll be posting plenty more Birdworld photos on instagram, so if you have an account, follow me there!

Shopping at Open Air Markets

Kuranda is known for its open air markets. I’m grateful for the suggestion to do most souvenir and gift shopping in Kuranda. While the kitschy Aussie shops were plentiful (kinda like UGG stores in Sydney… EVERYWHERE), there were some stand out stores that sold legitimate artist wares vs. the cheaper, mass-manufactured items. Trust me, you’ll know the difference. When you see the exact same didgeridoo and boomerang taunting in 3 different doorways, you’ll know to avoid it. I need to recommend Doongal Local Aboriginal Art (pictured below) – this is where Eric & I purchased our didgeridoo and boomerangs. The items are organized by artist and each artist has his or her own unique style. Not only are the items signed by the creator, each purchase includes an info sheet with a photo and biography about the aboriginal artist. The store attendant even played our didgeridoo for us to make sure we liked the sound quality.

There’s also a grocery store and bottle shop in Kuranda – so if you’re stranded on a resort like we were, here’s your opportunity to stock up on snacks and wine.

One of the many kitschy Aussie shops you’ll find in Kuranda… get your share of croc skins, kangaroo skins, and bush hats!

The face of a man unknowingly about to drop a fat dime on some didgeridoos and boomerangs. ;)

SkyRail

The skyrail cableway began the leisurely descent from Kuranda toward Cairns where our shuttles waited. As we stood in line, we noticed our new friend, Carol, that we had met earlier on the train. We invited her to join us. Sharing her company twice was a blessing. We chatted about Australia and the U.S. We discussed cultural differences, politics, economics, and all interesting and informative conversation we wouldn’t have had unless we spoke with a knowledgeable Aussie. Our eyes were opened much wider thanks to her. We glided high above the canopy and the Barron Gorge. The treetops looked like large fields of broccoli reaching for the sky. The cableway made stops at different lookout points – the Barron Falls, a rainforest stroll – a casual break from the heights. Although the cableway is safe, it’s still a stomach lurcher when you look down.

For the thrill seeker, a day in Kuranda my sound like a boring tourist trap. But for this adverturist, the change of pace and scenery really gave me the chance to inhale deeply and say, “aahh… so THIS is Queensland.”

Descending back to Cairns on the skyrail. Wouldja look at that view!

Gliding over the Barron River. Thanks Carol for the pic!

My snap of the feeble Barron Falls – they were not in full force!

7 October 2014
I Survived My First Scuba Dive

Excited & nervous for our first scuba dive!
By the way, can you believe it was Eric’s FIRST time in the ocean?!
Photo purchased from In-Depth Video & Photography

I was shaking. It’s the type of shaking when the hypothalamus reigns and the body’s basic instinct takes over.

I was wet, cold, excited, and frightened.

I was sitting underwater on a metal platform preparing for my first scuba diving adventure. At the Great Barrier Reef.

WOW!

We sailed aboard the Quicksilver Great Barrier Reef Cruise toward the continental shelf where the Agincourt Reef beckoned below. During the 90 minute journey, I mustered my courage and opted for a beginner scuba dive. (more…)

10 June 2014
Waltzing Maltilda, Back in the States

A clear night on Kewarra Beach in Queensland.

Waltzing Matilda is not a woman who likes to dance in rhythmic one-two-threes. Rather, it’s a squatter’s knapsack endearingly named Matilda (that’s a rough “American” translation).

If you’re perplexed with the reference of “Waltzing Matilda,” familiarize yourself with the song that was almost Australia’s National Anthem by watching this YouTube video.

Now, I didn’t name my traveling bags Matilda, but these bags are back home in the states and can you even believe it, they’ve been sitting here emptied and unused for 10 days now. They are having an identity crisis; they may just name themselves Matilda anyway. And 10 days after my return I’m still wondering if the trip to Australia really happened or if it was just a 2 week dream that ended in what feels like a blink.

I’m still processing two weeks of culture, adventure, excursions, food, landscapes, people… I’m still sifting through thousands of photos and hours of GoPro video. I’m still trying to figure out how I can express on this blog & give justice to a place that is truly spectacular.

I can’t wait to share my experiences in Australia – Sydney & Tropical North Queensland & Hamilton Island – so stay tuned for some down under love!

27 May 2014