The World Incorporated Travel Blog

Tag: travel

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
Traveling the World at the World’s Largest Christmas Store

I drove there by memory. Though if memory failed, there were enough signs pointing the way, much like the Star of Bethlehem to the Three Kings. And as I drove nearer, I grew weary with the road winding through the darkness, passing the occasional home, barn or church, but no indication of my destination. Did I go the wrong way? I began to hesitate.

Then, just as the road curved ahead – a light! Then another! Then THOUSANDS! Bronner’s, the world’s largest Christmas store, beamed ahead with enough Christmas lights to rival the night sky.

Just how large is the largest? Well, Bronner’s is situated on 27 acres, is open 361 days per year, greets 2 million visitors annually, and holds over 50,000 Christmas goodies to sell. And my favorite fact I recently learned from the PureMichigan blog? The average electric bill is $1,250… PER DAY! Oh, and there’s a reason why you get a handy dandy map to guide your shopping experience… because it’s just that large.

There’s a section of Bronner’s dear to my heart. It’s toward the back, near the Christmas trees and angel tree toppers. I had to pass various nativity scenes, nutcrackers of every size, colorful stockings and artists personalizing ornaments. I trotted through the Santa section, perused the food decorations (& giggled at the bacon ornaments), and paused by the cafeteria to inhale the wafting hot chocolate.

There it was, my favorite section: Christmas Around The World.

Did you know you can travel the world at the world’s largest Christmas store? Because for the next hour, I swear I became so enveloped in the detail of the ornaments that the holiday tunes seemed to mute, the smell of cinnamon and pine grew stronger, and the lights from the decor created bokeh in my peripheral vision as my imagination took me to every country with ornaments on display at Bronner’s.

Here were some of my favorites:

This Santa, hand-painted in Poland is so quintessentially Christmas. I don’t think I’d ever leave home for the holidays, unless it were to visit the European Christmas markets. This ornament makes me feel like I’m strolling the markets now with mulled wine between my winter gloves.

If these Peruvian food baskets don’t say “South America” maybe the canvas burro would. So colorful and crafted.

Made somewhere in Africa, the simplicity of this angel ornament reminded me that Christmas is more than sparkles and presents.

I finally saw Buckingham Palace! When I visited London during the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, I had the misfortune of the Palace blocked from pedestrians. Looks like I got my royal experience at Bronner’s. I wonder if they decorate the real Buckingham Palace for Christmas…

Asian lanterns reminded me of teaching English in China and how often I’d see these guys dangling in a window. Runner up to the Chinese dragon ornament and the Japanese sushi roll

Of course, Italy would have baskets of food ornaments. If only that cannoli were real…

I’ve never been to Russia, but this hand-painted ornament evokes the cold I can’t even imagine this place experiences.

After my recent trip to Australia, this koala made me smile so big reminiscing of the amazing time I had down under.

Poland’s hand-painted ornaments were incredible.

Thailand, Philippines, Vietnam

Before I left, I watched two young boys excitedly waving the different flags from different countries. They may not be globetrotters yet, but perhaps their magical visit to Bronner’s was a small introduction to how beautiful our world is.

If you ever visit Frankenmuth, Michigan, Bronner’s is a must. Even if you just peruse the Around the World section to fuel your wanderlust, you’ll leave with so much holiday and worldly spirit, you may just drive off singing Christmas carols in Spanish. Feliz Navidad!

This post is apart of the 2014 Travel Advent Calendar Series created by Shere y Paul. The 25 Days of Travel. Be sure to follow along here to see where we’re headed next.

17 December 2014
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
My Epic Craziness

Something epicly awesome has happened. Remember this post where I talk about which bucket list items I would choose if I were to win the Most #EpicBucketList Contest (ever) from Contiki & The Buried Life? Well, I made it to the round of finalists. I know. Crazy. I wasn’t expecting it at all. I barely slid through the finish line with JUST enough points to be in the top 25, but I’ve got the scraped knees & the “Congratulations!” email to prove it.

Of the nearly 10,000 who entered, the top 25 will compete by submitting a 1 minute video where we are supposed to creatively share our story & explain why we should go on the #EpicBucketList adventure.

Featuring my inner rapstar “A-Car” and my trusty sidecat, “Chedda”, here’s my video:

If you want to read the lyrics, I posted them in the info on YouTube. If you like my video and want to support me in this endeavor, please share with your friends so they can watch me be a rapstar, or go ahead and send this tweet:

Hey @theburiedlife & @Contiki_US & @ContikiCAN – I want @AmandaaaCar to win the #EpicBucketList Challenge! http://youtu.be/zn0hQJVMAx0

Sometimes I feel crazy. But maybe being a bit crazed will get me to the Galapagos or Angkor Wat. :)

20 November 2014
An Aboriginal Dreamtime Walkabout Tour in the Daintree

Heaven rays beaming down on the Daintree

In all my education, I can’t admit to ever definitively learning about Australian history or aboriginal culture. But the history I heard during my time down under was a familiar story, like déjà vu from my American history classes of yesteryear. While its comparing wombats to raccoons, there’s still an underlying theme: colonialism came to the “country” and shattered the indigenous culture through land expansion, disease, re-education or, sadly, annihilation. The result from both histories is lost languages, forgotten histories, ended bloodlines and an ugly scar on the past. What does remain are those quirky naming conventions, tribes who were given land reserves, and a new sense of urgency to preserve and share the culture of Australia’s FIRST people: the aborigine.

This is me thinking out loud right now – and maybe someone reading this may have some insight that I hope you’d share: When I think of Australia, the aboriginal people are among the first five things that come to my mind. For the person outside of the US thinking of traveling to the states – is America’s indigenous culture/Native Americans among the top things you’d consider when planning a trip? My instinct tells me that the aboriginal culture is more woven into Australia’s identity than Native Americans are to the United States. That’s just an unbacked presumption. If it’s true, it’s a damn shame, but I digress…

Back on topic.

My point is, I never learned much about the aboriginal culture. While it reminded me of home’s history, there were still some learning moments that I found interesting or surprising during my dreamtime walkabout tour in Queensland.

How we began our journey into the Daintree rainforest – walking through the smoke from the fire pit before entering.

To initiate, our guide “invited” us into the forest with a smoke ceremony – he chanted as we walked through a billow of smoke from the fire. This gave us permission to enter the Daintree Rainforest – the oldest rainforest in the world. One is not permitted to enter the rainforest unattended by one of the tribesman. Today, our aboriginal guide was Dingo. Dingo proceeded by explaining the tale of his friend who entered the rainforest without him and happened upon a stinger plant (very, very painful). Dingo made sure the rainforest had its retribution – he casually avoided telling him the remedy for his pain until he couldn’t take it any longer. I’ve usually been one of the philosophy that it’s better to seek forgiveness than permission… but not when it comes to revered aboriginal land!

Once inside the rainforest, I could feel the sacredness. Vines coil, leaves shimmer, bold sunrays penetrate like heavenly spotlights through the branches. It’s an emerald maze. Just knowing the deadly things hidden within the trees would be enough to keep me out without a tribesman. But despite all the dangers, the forest holds all the remedies. The rainforest is medicinal and healing. The rainforest possesses everything needed to survive. And we know it’s true, as the aborigine have flourished here for ages.

Our guide, Dingo, demonstrating how to use the tools offered by the rainforest – from opening nuts to painting on skin, washing with “soap leaves” and creating shields.

We traipsed along the trail, stopping as Dingo showed us different plantlife and points of interest. We circled around innocent-looking leaves – it was the stinger plant, one of Queensland’s most toxic plants that can leave redness and a painful stinging sensation for months. We analyzed a menacing-looking vine with thorns and learned it to be nature’s fishing wire and hook.

Dingo demonstrated how termite nests are better predictors of the weather than a local meteorologist with their fancy equipment. He passed around tree bark with natural elements to help bug bites. I kept a piece of bark for myself and soothed my red bumps for the rest of the walk.

Termite hill, working hard to forecast the weather.

We made our way to the Mossman River – what a beautiful sight! The water slithered over the round boulders in a mystical fashion – I felt like I encountered a magical fairy pond. Dingo wet different colored rocks and began rubbing them against a boulder. Within seconds, he had created “paint” which he used to dab those iconic aboriginal dots on his arm. Then, he grabbed some leaves, dipped them in the water and began to scrub them vigorously. A sudsy substance began to bubble… SOAP! Nature is so cool.

The cultural insight I found most fascinating was the kinship model. Tribes marry other tribes. When a couple is married, the husband is not allowed to speak to or be in the presence of the father of his wife. Contact is not acceptable and should be avoided. The way husbands can make connections with their “father in law” is through one thing… Have you guessed it yet? Children! When a couple has kids, the children go to their grandfather as a way for the husband to communicate with his bride’s father. I asked Dingo “why” and his response was a simple & wonderful, “I don’t know. That’s just how it is.” He laughed as he told us a story where he almost bumped into his wife’s father at an event, and his brother saved the day, avoiding an aboriginal faux pas.

There might be some husbands out there who would appreciate a system like that, right?

I loved our dreamtime walkabout tour in the Daintree rainforest. As our group gathered around a picnic table and enjoyed tea & damper at the conclusion of the tour (there’s always tea & damper), I reflected on how wonderful it is that despite a rough past, there’s an effort to keep these cultures alive and shared. Despite the trauma and persecution these peoples once endured, there’s newfound support for these indigenous communities. It wasn’t until 2008 that the Australian parliament released an official apology to the lost generations of aboriginal culture (2008… I know, right?). I think it such an honor that I was able to spend the afternoon with this group and I sincerely hope that other travelers visiting Australia consider making an aboriginal cultural experience a top priority.

The Mossman Gorge. Seriously beautiful. This is probably one of my favorite photos.

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13 November 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.

———————————–

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
A Weekend in Indianapolis

At this time last Friday, I felt like a fifth grader on the last day of school. Though instead of chanting “Summer! Summer! Summer! Summer!” my brain rhythmically chimed “Indy! Indy! Indy! Indy!” Once the clock struck 5pm, my favorite girlfriends and I left corporate America & med school in the mitten state for a brief road trip to Indianapolis. Our friend Lexie, the Indy transplant, hosted us for a quick weekend.

I had never been to indianapolis before. After a year of hearing her gush about how great a midwest city it is, I finally had the opportunity to see for myself. However, I did not see Indy as I expected… I have a travel blog. I thrive on travel. I adore writing about it. Ideas for blog posts started spinning in my head as soon as I confirmed my commitment to go. I thought about public guided tours of the city, learning the bike culture, enlightening myself at museums, appreciating the Indy art scene… That’s not what happened. These are the roommates I once lived with in our wonderful Detroit duplex. These are my greatest friends in the world. Now that we’ve “grown up” & moved away from college, very seldom do we ALL have the opportunity to get together for true QUALITY time. I didn’t craft blog posts while I was there. Instead, I made memories and lived in the moment of our friendship.

It was amazing.

During the drive we caught up on each other’s lives. We talked about relationships and bowel movements. We compared (some) relationships to the stuff of bowel movements. “Are we there yet?!” was never asked, and when we were finally there, we continued to laugh, talk, and enjoy until 4:30 a.m. I haven’t seen that time in a long time.

The next day we nursed broken hearts and fed addictions at the Indy Chocolate Fest. Who cares that it was in Indy – chocolate is chocolate (though it did benefit the arts in local Indy schools. +1 for altruism). I was reminded about how delicious macaroons are (my first & last was in Paris), tasted chocolate beer, licked Gorgonzola-pecan ice cream, munched on chocolate treats/candied popcorns and really enjoyed a belt-loosening chocolate buzz.

We awed at the height and grandeur of the war memorial. I didn’t learn much about it, but did enjoy the ridiculousness of us getting photos with each other in front of it.

We call this photo “Picception”

We strolled along Mass Ave., visiting shops, ogling at the bike bar until settling (or rather, revving up) at my new favorite establishment: Tini. The Mango Tabasco martini burned just right, the televisions played FUN music videos spanning across the decades (can I get three cheers for Backstreet Boys, Larger Than Life?), the bartenders filled our table with surprise shots (more than once), and another bartender taught us how to ‘tut’ which led to an epic dance off (which I lost, miserably). We checked out some other places (tacos at Bakersfield = delicious) until the night sadly faded away. I became a first time Lyft user. I felt so millennial as I walked past the cabs to our free Lyft ride. It was a fun night in Indianapolis with my girlfriends.

Sunday started with a big, fat breakfast, then continued with the unfortunate drive home. We played games in the car to pass the time. When we finally rolled into Detroit, my only thought was that whoever invented weekends did it all wrong – two days is not enough.

So I really didn’t tell you too much about Indianapolis. Because honestly, I paid more attention to my friends and our conversations than the city. I noticed how pretty Lexie’s red hair looked in the sun rather than how the changing autumn leaves shimmered in the breeze. Melissa’s laugh made me laugh more than people watching the locals. Tammy & Monica’s conversation about medical care captured my attention more than the Indiana specialty craft beer list. I’m more than okay with that.

I love our weekend in Indianapolis. But I still need to go back. Because I still need to explore those bike trails. I still need to learn why it’s called the Circle City. I still want to drive a race car. I still want to analyze this midwestern city and compare it to Detroit. There will be a time for that. This wasn’t that time. This was the time for old friends and new memories in a new place. Thanks, Indy, for hosting us. I’ll be back soon.

17 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
Hypes & Gripes: A Review of the Kewarra Beach Resort in Cairns, Queensland
Eric & I relaxed at the Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa (Kewarra) in the month of May (autumn, in Australia) as our accommodation for our visit to tropical north Queensland. We stayed in the 1 room Pandanus Bungalow hidden in the rainforest, not far from the beach. Here is my review of our Kewarra Beach Resort experience.

SNAPSHOT

The Quick: Kewarra is a secluded, private bungalow-style resort nestled in the natural setting of the rainforest along Kewarra Beach in Cairns, Queensland. There’s a lovely open-air restaurant, laundry room and wifi among many other amenities. There are various bungalow styles and locations on the resort , ranging in amenities and prices.

The Damage: Rooms range approximately $277-600 USD ($300-650 AUD) depending on bungalow style, location and season of stay. Packages are available.

Three Adjectives: Romantic, Tropical, Natural

Recommendation: I adored our stay at Kewarra. If I were heading back to Tropical North Queensland, I would stay again. If you’re planning a stay near Cairns or Port Douglas, consider Kewarra for your accommodation.

HYPES

(AKA things worth bragging about)
- Location, Location, Location! Private, secluded, natural rainforest, along the beach, between Cairns and Port Douglas, not too far from Palm Cove… all these things added up to a sublime location.
- Call of the Wild. Nature lovers, rejoice! You are living among Mother Nature’s finest flora and fauna. The greatest point of difference about Kewarra compared to the other accommodations I considered, was the embrace of the natural environment. While most resorts have that “embellished with landscaping” image, Kewarra seemed like the bungalows were designed around the native flow of the forest.
- Animal Kingdom. It is true that the landscaping at Kewarra is organic and purposefully untamed. That doesn’t mean it is overgrown and unkempt. It means the grounds are a friendlier habitat for the creatures that call Kewarra home. We enjoyed watching wallabies frolic on the lawn, fruit bats hanging out in the trees, gorgeous butterflies fluttering around the tropical flowers, lizards scurrying toward protection, a strange chicken/turkey-like bird digging holes along the path (hilarious, by the way)… every step outside our bungalow created excitement for whatever nature we were about to encounter. We never saw the infamous goanna, however.
- Smiling Staff. The staff at Kewarra genuinely cared and recognized our faces as guests. It’s the familiarity that gave that “We matter” feeling. The Paperbark Restaurant workers were amiable and helpful; the receptionist assisted with all our requests (confirming tours, helping book an excursion, exchanging cash for coins, scheduling airport transfers). It left Eric wondering, “Why are people here SO NICE?!” (people aren’t very nice to him too often…)
- Size Matters. Our little 1 room bungalow was cozy, not small. A room with a bed, two chairs, side table and tv stand was plenty space. It wasn’t luxurious, but was charming and comfortable. It’s not like we were often IN the room, besides for shut eye and watching the strangest Chinese gameshows ever (but seriously entertaining).
- Quiet Public Beach. Kewarra Beach is a public beach, though I never would have guessed it. The sand was litter-free. A few beach-goers relaxed with their families. Couples walked their dogs. A net encapsulated part of the water to safeguard from jellies. Kewarra Beach was tranquil.
- Excursion Friendly. Kewarra is a pick-up point for every tour. Going on excursions was hassle-free with Kewarra. The staff confirmed all our reservations and helped book any additional tours. Even if you do not have any plans, there are plenty of brochures at the desk to make last minute planning easier.
- Laundry Facilities. Back toward the entrance of the resort, Kewarra has a small building beyond the parking lot dedicated to two washers and dryers. Although the laundry room was dated, the ability for us to do our own laundry & pay with coins saved so much money compared to the “laundry service” provided at most hotels ($5 to clean my undies?! No thanks).
GRIPES

(AKA notes/complaints worth mentioning)
- “Hit or Miss” Restaurant. Though I’d slide the scale toward satisfied vs. dissatisfied, my experience with Paperbark Restaurant was mixed. While Eric would classify his dishes as sublime (kangaroo steak = superb, scallop entree = addicting), I had a couple dishes (i.e. seafood risotto) that were as salty as our Great Barrier Reef excursion. There was an evening when the wait staff forgot to place our order, but they quickly rectified the situation with complimentary dessert (gelato trio… mmm). Brekky was painfully expensive to buy every day – even just for poached eggs on toast – so I’d recommend a package with breakfast included in the morning (or BYO). Keep in mind, there’s a reason why Paperbark Restaurant won TripAdvisor’s 2014 Award of Excellence.
- Secluded… and Stuck. While Kewarra is a nice little hideaway, it also means “trap” to guests who don’t hire a car or walk to the bus stop. There really is nothing within close walking distance (unless you want to trek over 30 minutes); essentially you’re bound to the resort restaurant/bar and grounds. We beach walked to Palm Cove one day (40 minutes) for a change of scenery & food. When on excursions, we’d take advantage & purchase snacks/wine from random stores we encountered. Most excursions pick up at the reception of the resort.
- Alligator Toots. A barely noticeable odd odor lingered in our room. The veranda of our bungalow overlooked the lagoon – this may have been the culprit of the smell. It was a subtle scent of alligator toots, as my sister would have said during our childhood trips to Florida when we’d cross a swamp/stillwater. It wasn’t terrible and after 5 minutes our noses acclimated… so don’t let that deter you.
- Weak Air Con. It was not terribly hot during our travels, but the room felt slightly muggy and never reached that bitingly crisp cold. I could see this being a nuisance in the summer, but for our stay, it was not a hindrance to a comfortable sleep. Just something worth noting.
- Lonely Pools. We never saw a soul in the pools. We never swam in the pools. Partly because our days were consumed by activities, partly because the evenings grew dark by 6pm, but mostly because the pools were sheltered by the rainforest. The pools didn’t see the sun, weren’t overly warm, and the leaves from the surrounding trees tainted the water clarity. Oh, and I had the irrational fear that a spider would web down from a tree above. I did see a diligent cleaning crew at the pool every morning, but by the time evening rolled around they’d be full of debris again. But what would you expect from a pool surrounded by trees? The pools are beautiful, but if you’re looking for an open, pristine, sun-filled, Olympic-size pool, this is not it.
- Nananananananananana… Bat Land! A point of admiration for Kewarra was the abundance of wildlife. When Eric and I first toured the footpath that weaved around the bungalows, we encountered hundreds of flying foxes screeching in the trees above. This didn’t bother me a bit; I like nature (& bats). We never heard them from our bungalow. But if you were the bungalow beneath the bats? Darn, good luck sleeping. If you have a fear of bats? Darn, happy nightmares to you. Perhaps request that your bungalow isn’t close to the bats to mitigate this issue.
OUR EXPERIENCE

I felt a touch of magic from Kewarra as I researched accommodations from home. Kewarra seemed to offer that unique experience I sought – and it delivered. When the airport shuttle first dropped us off to that lush green canopy and we walked up to the open air reception (open air! no walls! what?!) my expectations for a tropical getaway were already met. Kewarra forever has the honor of being my first ever resort stay, so when our luggage was whisked away to our rooms on a golf cart while we sat in plush lounge chairs enjoying a refreshing, pineapple-y welcome drink, I refrained from a happy dance that wanted to jump around from the excitement of luxury. Kewarra wasn’t a sterile, uniform hotel. Every step outside the bungalows was art for the eyes between the flowers and nature that encompassed the bungalows. The pace of Kewarra felt slow and relaxed. It wasn’t overrun by tourists. Sometimes it seemed we had the whole place to ourselves. I’m so fond of the memories made at Kewarra. We laughed with outrageous joy as we watched a joey wallaby bounce around the lawn like a spazzed out kitten on catnip. I laughed when Eric encountered a gecko in our bathroom. We discovered what a paperbark tree really felt like. I made an embarrassing scene over Eric dipping his toes in the ocean for the first time. Every night ended with watching the strangest Chinese dating game shows. We spent a dark evening taking long-exposure photographs of the stars. We were happy. Truly, blissfully, adventurously happy. And Kewarra was the setting.

LEARN MORE

Here are more ways to learn about the Kewarra Beach Resort & Spa:
- Visit their website
- Like their Facebook page
- Check out other guest reviews on TripAdvisor
Have you ever stayed at Kewarra Beach Resort? Thinking about it? How about any other accommodations around Cairns? I’d love to hear about it in the comments below! :)

*Lucky me – I was a guest of Tourism & Events Queensland from winning a blogger contest. A portion of my stay in Queensland was covered. All opinions are genuinely my own.

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9 September 2014