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traveled in 20 countries Read more Yeppoon, Australia
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    • TravelerSummer Escape 2024
      Day 75

      Melbourne

      January 30 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 21 °C

      Here's a polished version of your travel blog entry:

      Melbourne & Geelong Adventure: Pickleball, Friends & Chilly Swims

      After four long days on the road from Fremantle, Joanne and I arrived in Geelong absolutely exhausted. We took some time to settle in, rest, and catch up with friends before the action really kicked off.

      Kel wasted no time and got into some pickleball at Drysdale before we headed into Melbourne for the Pro Pickleball Tournament at the Exhibition Centre. It was a fantastic experience, especially catching up with our fellow ballers—particularly the crew from Yeppoon. Kel teamed up with Robyn and made it all the way to the bronze medal match—a great effort!

      Outside of pickleball, we enjoyed some lovely dinners and even managed a swim together at St Kilda Beach—though the water was definitely on the chilly side!

      Joanne then flew home to spend time with her granddaughter, celebrate her son's birthday, and catch up with a few friends. Meanwhile, Kel stayed on to watch the Pro Pickleball finals on Sunday before moving over to East Melbourne for more pickleball action.

      Now, as Kel makes his way toward the Northern Rivers, NSW, to reunite with Joanne, we reflect on what has been a fabulous trip. Until the next adventure.      Read more

    • TravelerSummer Escape 2024
      Day 69

      Day in the Barossa Valley: Wine, Food, a

      January 24 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

      Our day began in the charming town of Nooriupata with a much-needed coffee to kick things off. The Barossa Valley morning was crisp, and the caffeine hit the spot, setting the tone for what we hoped would be a day of indulgence and discovery.

      From there, we made our way to Angerston for a delightful breakfast. While we enjoyed our meal, Joanne indulged in some retail therapy and snagged herself a pair of jeans – a little treat to remember the trip by.

      The highlight of the morning came with a visit to Schubert’s Wines. Kell couldn’t resist diving into a tasting of their Shiraz collection. It was an enjoyable experience, and naturally, we ended up splurging on a few bottles to be shipped home. After all, the Barossa Shiraz is hard to resist.

      The midday cravings kicked in, and we found ourselves in Tanunda for cake and coffee. I tried a Portuguese cake, while Joanne opted for a lemon poppy seed slice. While the cakes were decent, neither really stood out. Still, the café’s ambiance made for a pleasant break.

      Next up was Maggie Beer’s Farm, where we indulged in a three-course lunch. While the dishes were certainly creative and imaginative, they didn’t quite live up to our expectations. Despite spending over $200, the meal left us disappointed, as the flavors didn’t quite align with our palate. It’s safe to say the hype didn’t match our experience.

      In an effort to lift our spirits, we ventured into the hills to visit some scenic lookouts. The panoramic views of the Barossa Valley were breathtaking, with rolling vineyards stretching as far as the eye could see. It was the perfect reminder of why this region holds such a special place in our hearts.

      We ended our day at Lambert’s Wines, where Kell had a tasting of their chocolate port. While intriguing, it didn’t quite make the cut for our collection. Nevertheless, the experience was a nice way to round out the day.

      The Barossa Valley offered its usual mix of memorable wine tastings, charming towns, and stunning landscapes. While there were a few culinary disappointments along the way, the day was still a beautiful reminder of the region’s unique charm and the joy of exploring it at our own pace.      Read more

    • TravelerSummer Escape 2024
      Day 68

      Nuriootpa

      January 23 in Australia

      Blog Entry: Journey Across the Nullarbor to the Barossa Valley

      After three long but rewarding days on the road, punctuated by memorable overnight camps, we’ve finally arrived in the Barossa Valley. The journey has been an adventure in itself, marked by vast landscapes, extreme temperatures, and breathtaking scenery.

      Day 1: Norseman Caravan Park

      Our first stop was at the Norseman Caravan Park, where we encountered a searing 40-degree heat. The desert sun was relentless, but the caravan park offered a much-needed rest stop. It was the start of our Nullarbor crossing—a region where isolation and raw beauty come together.

      Day 2: Bunda Cliffs on the Great Australian Bight

      From Norseman, we pressed on to one of the most iconic spots of the journey: the Bunda Cliffs. These towering cliffs offered a view of the vast Southern Ocean, a sight so grand it made the long drive worthwhile. Camping here under the stars, with the sound of the waves crashing below, was an experience we’ll never forget.

      Day 3: Bush Camp at Minnipa

      After soaking in the views, we continued our journey and set up camp in a remote bush setting at Minnipa apex bush camp. The solitude was broken by the road trains but humbling, a reminder of how vast and untouched parts of Australia truly are. We pushed through.

      Arrival in Nuriootpa, Barossa Valley

      Finally, we arrived in Nuriootpa, the heart of the Barossa Valley, ready to indulge in its culinary and cultural delights. After days of minimalist living on the road, the idea of a warm, fulfilling meal and a glass of fine wine felt like pure luxury.

      Maggie Beer’s Farm: Lunch here was a feast for the senses, offering fresh, local flavors that perfectly captured the essence of the region.

      Wine Tasting: Of course, no visit to the Barossa is complete without sampling some of its world-famous wines. Each sip was a reminder of the rich winemaking heritage that defines this area.

      Retail Therapy: A bit of shopping rounded off the day, allowing us to bring a piece of the Barossa back home.

      Rest and Recharge

      More than anything, this stop is about taking a break from the relentless drive, allowing us to recharge and prepare for the next leg of our journey. The Barossa Valley has welcomed us with open arms, providing the perfect mix of relaxation, indulgence, and beauty.

      Next Stop: Geelong

      On Saturday, we’ll pack up and head toward Geelong, ready for the adventures and discoveries that await us there. For now, we’re soaking in every moment of our time in this stunning region.

      Stay tuned for the next chapter of our journey!      Read more

    • TravelerSummer Escape 2024
      Day 64

      Fremantle

      January 19 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 33 °C

      We’ve had a wonderful week in Fremantle, soaking up the beautiful coastal vibe and reconnecting with family and friends. The highlight, of course, was catching up with our daughter and grandkids. From lazy days at the beach to exploring parks and even a few thrilling amusement rides, it was such a joy to make more memories with them.

      Kel managed to squeeze in some pickleball with his mate John, whom he first met in Yeppoon a few years ago. It’s always great to see the pickleball community bringing people together across the miles.

      We also spent quality time with Fi and Peter, our dear friends we first met on a cruise back in 2016. Every time we’re in the west, catching up with them is a must—it’s like no time has passed at all. Tried to recreate our photo from last meet up.

      Our daily routine in Fremantle was all about staying active and enjoying the outdoors. Morning ocean swims, bike rides along the coastline, and walks on the beach became part of our rhythm. It’s such a refreshing way to start the day.

      As always, Fremantle has left us with full hearts and a sense of gratitude for these connections and the simple joys of life. Until next time, WA!      Read more

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