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My Time in Down Under
  • Michelle Eichenberg

My Time in Down Under

I got the possibility to go on a FAM-Trip to Australia which I extended just a bit here and there. Read more
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  • Trip start
    May 14, 2023
    Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Can you find a kettle?
    And ArtInteresting view...

    Starting earlier than planned

    May 14, 2023 in Germany ⋅ ☁️ 16 °C

    When the email from my boss-boss came, I was hooked within seconds. Our partner AOT offered a 12-day FAM-Trip to Australia which was divided into two modules. The second one was stsrting in Cairns, going to Tasmania and ending in Perth. THAT was the shit I wanted to do! I asked my boss Christian if I could apply for one of the spots and he said "Can't be worse than a No". So I applied and it did come worse - they said Yes, you can go! Shoot, now I had to decide whether I could afford the flights to Down Under and the time. Originally, Seb and I wanted to go on a Van-Adventure to Norway with Aluna, but now that option became realistic. I had to decide within two days and God it was a lot of back and forth... But in the end, I decided to go. So I used the two weeks of Norway holiday, and packed them around the FAM-Trip as I wouldn't fly around the whole world only for 12 days. I would be gone for a whole month now... That was crazy. Especially with Aluna... But I would get a hold on this problem.
    The day to depart drew closer and closer and in the Friday before my flight, I got the bad news "The Deutsche Bahn would strike for 50h straight" and my train to Frankfurt would definitely be in that time... Shit. Thank goodness, I've got some connections with my dad. As he works for Maritim, he could get me a family-rated hotel room in Frankfurt so that I could arrive the day before. At least, I had the Rail & Fly ticket to use for the 14th,so no extra costs there. Just a lot of stress. And one day less to enjoy my dog. Damnit. I had to liv with it though, so I arranged to leave on Sunday afternoon and got everything fixed in time. And a day later, the news hit me again "The Deutsche Bahn could avoid the strike". Hell, I really do hate the DB. Why are people like that? I decided to still leave early on Sunday just to avoid more stress. So, under tears, I said goodbye to Seb and Aluna and boarded the train to Frankfurt main station. No delays whatsoever... A bit luck for me there. And then I only had to wander with my huge backpack 16min to the Maritim hotel which is situated directly next to the Congress centre of Frankfurt. Finally, I could check in and took the elevator up to the 8th floor to my room. I just wanted to drink a hot tea to calm myself down... But hey - I got disappointed again. There was no hot water kettle in the room. Amazing...    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Long ways from A to B

    The Pleasures of Flying

    May 15, 2023 in Germany ⋅ ⛅ 18 °C

    Today I woke up early to have a stressless start. I went down to the restaurant for breakfast although I felt super sick and didn't want to eat. After a Latte Macchiato without cocoa, and some bread, I didn't feel much better. I was so nervous that my stomach signalled me "Alert, alert" all the time. Nevertheless, I left my hotel room, checked out and went to the next tube station where I took the U4 to the main station to then enter an ICE to the airport. And my god, the Frankfurt airport is so huge and there are no good signs that would lead the way around. I had to ask two people to get to the Check-in. And then I stood in the queue for about an hour until they finally decided to open another Check-in so that the mile-long queue would shorten more quickly. I really hate waiting... After finally being checked in, I wanted to go to the Security Check, but the one for B was closed, so I had to go miles to the one for A. After that (tbh much shorter queue) I had to go back to B, yeah... But honestly, when you always have to walk miles and miles to the next place you have to be at, and then have to wait for that being done, the time flies...Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Singapore airport decoration
    The mighty A380

    The Worst Entry Ever

    May 16, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    The first 12hrs flight from Frankfurt to Singapore were never ending. I watched about 6 movies and couldn't sleep for a minute. Then I had 1,5hrs transit time in Singapore, which I tried to use as little nap time, but couldn't. I'm just not made for such long journeys...
    The next flight took only 4,5hrs but was worse than ever. Because I was so sleep deprived, I was shivering all over my body and I felt super sick. When the stewardess came and offered me my breakfast, I couldn't eat a bit because the smell made me feel even sicker. I hid away in the toilet to let out some cries. I was way too tired to control my emotions anymore. When I came back, I asked the stewardess to take away my untouched breakfast and give me some water. Then, after a while, I just wanted to eat my banana and so I did. Then we got a form to fill out for the Australian Immigration. I was wondering why I paid for the ETA up front and what that was all about. I filled it out, signed it and put it away.
    Finally, we landed in Darwin and I was so happy to nearly be able to just lay down in a proper bed and sleep for ages. However, the Australians had different plans for me.
    First, I had to go through immigration which took ages, then I lined up for a backpack control. "Don't be sorry, just declare" was on posters all over the place. My mind couldn't really comprehend what that meant at the time. Now I know...
    When it was my turn, the officer asked me a bunch of questions and then I said "I'm sorry, this is wrong. I forgot I've got an apple in my backpack." I've just realized that I crossed No on the question "Do I have to declare fruit etc." instead of Yes. Next to the banana that I ate to not fall unconscious, I completely forgot the apple that I took from the Maritim Hotel the other day. And now, I was in huge trouble. He asked me more questions that I just answered as best as I could in my state of mind. It wasn't good enough it seemed. He brought another officer, discussing right in front of me. "It's your decision, 50/50 really", said the other one. I looked in my officers eyes that turned cold. "She knew about the apple and lied on the document. That's no 50/50." I was fucked.
    He went off to the computer, taking my apple with him. He was tipping and tipping, until I felt so weak that I had to sit down. I was watching every other person leaving the room one after another, unbothered. They still discussed and tipped on their computer. After an eternity, he came back, laid some papers in front of me and told me about my penalty. 1.650 AUD... That was about 900-1000€. For an apple. "We don't have any apple diseases, you could have brought apple diseases, you shouldn't have lied on that document." I didn't lie! I screamed in my head, but I was too tired and too lost for words. Sure, that would be the most expensive apple of my whole life. What the fuck was wrong with these people? I understood that it could be dangerous, but I didn't do it intentionally. How could the penalty be so much out of any proportion?
    With the last bit of energy I had, I tried to hold back the tears, grabbed my stuff and my penalty and went out of the room. I knew, I had to get somehow to my hostel. But before, I wanted to change some cash and get myself a SIM card. It turned out that the airport was smaller than my backpack and that they had nothing I needed. So I just went outside and stopped a taxi. The driver drove me to my hostel, I paid and got my hostel keys. I was so tired, not having slept in over 24 hours. But I needed some food and a SIM card, so I walked the little walk to the next supermarket (Coles) and got some food. I also chose the next best SIM card I could get a hold on and went back to the hostel. Then I wanted to charge my phone but the world charger that stated to have Australia in it, didn't. Obviously, I didn't bring the other charger with me that would definitely have had the Australian charger size. So, I had to go to Coles again and buy me another charger. Back in the hostel, I tried to activate the SIM card but why would anything work today? "Sorry, we need an Australian credit card for a verification." What the actual heck?! I bought a 30 day valid SIM card. In which world would an Australian need a 30 day SIM card? These SIM cards are made for tourists and as far as I'm concerned, most tourists don't have a credit card for the country they are travelling to! Why was this country against me? Why was everything so shit? Why did I ever went on this journey? Why couldn't I have just stayed home and went to Norway with Seb and Aluna just as we've had planned? I missed them so much and was trapped in this shitty country that didn't seem to want me here. I wanted to go home, badly. I couldn't get a grip of myself and called my mom and Seb, crying, telling them my story and just tried to calm myself down. Didn't work. That would be an amazing night...

    By the way: I could take the apple with me in the end. So, I really do hope that the officer investigated it for any diseases. Otherwise, I could not understand why they'd fine me such a huge amount of money when it wouldn't matter in the end if it's bad for the Australian environment or not...    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Sunshine and Palm trees
    Rural decorationsBathroom staffOur one-motor planeCo-PilotingThe QuarryOur pilotTwin FallsWhat the camera can see but the eye can'tVastness of Kakadu NP

    Kakadu NP Pt. 1 - From Above

    May 17, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    After a night without much sleep (as I couldn't stop thinking about the shitty start of my trip) I had to wake up at 5.30am to make myself ready for the first day-tour. At 6am I was going towards the Hilton Hotel where the AAT Kings bus picked me up. The direction: Kakadu National Park. Entering the bus I saw that I let the age range drop by at least 20 years, as all the other passengers where at least 60 years old. However, they were super chill and funny, and I immediately became friends with a group of four. On the way to the NP (when I didn't fall asleep) I saw lots of cute little wallabys but couldn't take a picture as the bus drive too quickly. Our first short stop was a toilet break, where I wandered around and found not only some amazing rural decorations but also great bathroom staff. Off we drove to our first real stop: Jaribu Airport. I booked the optional scenic flight over Kakadu NP, which I was very happy about. The ones remaining on the bus would just drive to the next station and not really see much else than already. So I grabbed my water bottle (vital in this kind of heat) and camera and sat next to our driver Ivan. There I reflected on the ridiculousness if calling their highways highways. For me, these roads were normal, if not quite unsafe, country roads... And it was quite amusing that Ivan didn't know why they use km/h although the UK uses mph. After some more chit-chat, we arrived at the airport and got our safety instructions. As I've learned - for the Australians nothing is more important than safety. After that, Ivan called his group out, which included me. Our plane was tiny in comparison to the A380 on my way from Frankfurt to Singapore and over 30 years old... It still looked safe though. When Ivan asked who would like to sit on the Co-Pilots seat, my hand shot in the air and the other lady interested in the spot, gave it to me very amicably.
    After boarding the plane (I was not allowed to touch the steering wheel or pedals as they still functioned), we slowly rolled on to the strip and took off. It was weird, sitting in front of a plane, Ivan turning and churning on all these buttons and regulators that I couldn't understand. But it was really cool! The vastness of this land was immense. I mean... The NP is as big as Wales, what the heck? It was all just savannah bushland and rock formation, and one could say it looks quite boring. But it is so immense, so never-ending, that you can feel the importance of the land through and through. We flew to the Jim Jim Falls and Twin Falls, flying nearly 90 degrees to the bottom so that everyone could see. At the horizon you could see bushfires, burning down the dead grass, leaving behind an open space for new plants to grow on. It's a tradition to burn the grass away in the Dry season. That prevents uncontrollable fires to burst out and burn everything down. It's still weird to think of fire and flames to be helping in that regard, but it definitely makes sense.
    We finally landed, said good bye to our pilot Ivan and drove to our next station - Yellow Waters Billabong Cruises.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Fishing
    Spot itIt's too hotSouth Alligator RiverPerfect spotWater lilliesField of water lilliesThe Jabirus nestWhistling BirdsThe wetlandsGrumpy the Croc

    Kakadu NP Pt. 2 - Crocs all over

    May 17, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 32 °C

    After leaving our pilots behind, we jumped on the Yellow Water Cruise with Kathrin. She was fantastic at her job, showing us the saltwater crocodiles, birds and plants at the Yellow Water Billabong, the Southern and Western Alligator River. We've learned that the explorer who found the salties in the rivers thought that they were alligators which led to naming the river wrongly. I guess renaming is difficult in Australia. They actually have lots of weird naming stories, one of them being the city of Humpty Duo, which got it's name after a journalist writing about the cattle farm Humpty Didoo (idk if that's correctly spelled) and spelled it Humpty Duo... Great stories there.
    Anyway, we saw lots of salties, mostly laying around in the shadows to cool themselves off, or in the sun to heat themselves up. Having their mouth open helps them cooling off as the wind is blowing through it then. I never really understood the interest in crocodiles before seeing them so close by. They look ancient and their vibe is very ancient as well. It's actually very difficult to age them properly, especially the females. Their bones are like trees and have rings in them, from which you can tell if a croc had lots to eat or not. But after a while, they stop growing so it is nearly impossible to put a finger on a certain age. However, scientists think they could get about 100 years old. It's also very uncommon to see baby crocs as they are very endangered. Their own mother would eat them if she would find them... That's awful, don't you think? Well, after we spotted enough of the salties, Kathrin went on and told us about native bamboo and the water lillies that would die off soon, going further into the dry season. It's actually enormous, how much the landscape changes there. At the end of dry season, Kathrin told us that the water will sink about 2m, and at the end of wet season the water would have risen up to 4m higher than it was right now. It's insane. When going back to the buses, another Guide named Jessica told us that the water would rise so high, that all the streets and fences and platforms we currently stood on and walked over, would be flooded and not seen. The fence was completely rusted because of that. And the biggest problem coming with the water are the salties that can get super dangerous for humans. Who doesn't have to be too afraid of them though, are the birds. As long as they are not stupid enough to fly and land directly next to them, crocs don't like eating birds as they can't digest the feathers and would need to spit them out. One of the bird species there is the Whistling Bird. They look like very serene ducks but they would actually be very bad ducks because they hate water. Another species is the Jaribu that can't be called like that anymore because the South American Jaribu bird has the "right of its name". I did forget the new name for the Australian Jaribu though...
    What I didn't forget about was the two aboriginal words that Kathrin told us at the end of the cruise. The first one is Gamak which means something like Thank you. And the other one is Bor Bor, which means Until we see each other again (or less dramatic: See you later, alligator).
    I actually think it's really cool how she and also our bus driver this morning, have acknowledged the Aboriginal people and the custodians of the land. It really makes you understand the importance of respect between the aboriginal and non-aboriginal people.
    After riding the boat up and down the falsely named rivers, I was through about 4L of water. I was sweating like hell, I was thirsty af and couldn't stop drinking and spilling water all over me to cool me down. I'm really not much of a heat person and that Top End warmth really got on my nerves.
    Luckily, after the very hot cruise, we could cool off at lunch at the Cooinda Lodge. I sat down with my new four friends, eating nice cool food and discuss German politics and phrases. After a while, Gerry pointed out one of the waitresses and said "I think she's German." Not long after that, his friend Jim just asked the girl if she actually was German and Gerry was right. We started talking in German about her time in Australia so far and she told me that she's been here for about four years now. I was quite impressed, I didn't know one could stay in Australia that long of a time. Maybe Covid did some good for her in that regard. She didn't miss Germany and just loved the Australian lifestyle... Well, I guess I see some points but I can't judge yet. Maybe in three weeks I would have an opinion on that.
    After lunch, we gathered again to drive to our last stop: Nourlangie or Burrunkuy.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Nourlangie
    Successful huntingIs that some sort of crown?Daring plantsDancing peopleThe rainbow serpents homeLookoutPanoramaBalance is everythingGetting darkerGoodbye Nourlangie

    Kakadu NP Pt. 3 - Ancient Art

    May 17, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 34 °C

    We arrived at the hight of the heat at Nourlangie, an Ancient Art Gallery by the Aboriginal People of that land. To protect myself from the heat, I brought my dad's hat with me which honestly just looks ridiculous on anybody. Jim went to the toilet with me and I asked him "Don't I look ridiculous with this hat?" and he looked at me, scrutinising me. Then he answered "No, there are a lot of Australian wearing these kinds of hats at the beach. It's actually very smart, it protects the ears and neck as well." After that, I felt a bit better about the hat. We learned a lot about the makings of the art (e.g. the used Wallaby blood for the red paint) and the stories behind them. As non-aboriginal people though, we were only granted access to the "first story" of the paintings which is the most superficial side of the story. But we've learned that every story tells a moral for the people, e.g. "Don't go out at night" or "Don't sleep with your sister and then kill her for it"... Very deep, indeed.
    It was cool being there though, as the vibe of the site is just very spiritual. And as you're right under a huge rock, you feel very tiny in comparison.
    Afterwards, we could go to a nearby lookout if we wanted to and the Australian seniors surprised me and the guide once more. Nearly half of them wanted to go there and so we went. It was quite a fascinating view, overlooking the vast land and the ancient rocks. Pretty dope.
    At last, the day was over and we could jump back on the bus to leave half of our people behind (just a resort, we aren't criminals). Jim left the bus patting on my shoulder and saying "Don't you worry, your hat looks alright" which I found to be very sweet. The rest of us got a nasty downgrade for the bus home. Still, I was so tired, that I fell asleep shortly after starting the ride back to Darwin. After another 2,5hrs, we were finally back in town and I could get into bed.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Some beach
    Bicentennial Park"Your hat is alright" - hatLots of rootsStoniest beach everMe in Darwins heatI need some water plsSome colourful street artSunsettingMindil Beach Sunset MarketCrowded Mindil Beach

    Chilling in Darwin

    May 18, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 30 °C

    Today was a lazy chill-day. I slept in till 11am and ate some bread and dip again (for 3 days now). Then I decided to take on the hassle to call the Government because of my Infringement to ask them about changing my penalty. I went to the hostels reception (btw I'm staying in the Youthshack), asked for the phone and called. The government lady told me to write an email (couldn't they have written it on it, that they needed everything on paper?) which I then did. After around an hour, I was done with defending myself and now it was in the government hands whether they would actually punish me for an apple or not.
    Today was my problem solving day, so I went on to look for the mobile phone service store where I wanted to ask about the stupidity of the SIM cards need to be verified by an Australian Visa card. I went at lunchtime (which was rather stupid) and did find nothing. The store didn't exist anymore. Fabulous. So I walked back to the hostel, sweating as much as I could, and taking some pictures of colourful murals. Then I had the brilliant idea to get myself some ice cream, which I immediately did and ate. Less sweating.
    I decided that it was way too hot outside, so I stayed in bed until 4.30pm, relaxing and trying to send a refund form to Coles about the SIM card. They didn't want me to complain so they wouldn't even receive their form. I just couldn't send it. It really was becoming ridiculous.
    After eating another ice cream, I finally went outside again, melting in the heat. I put my "alright" hat on and strolled through the park at the coast. I saw the stoniest beach ever and some very weird hens. Then I went on to my actual goal: Mindil Beach Sunset Markets. They are only twice a week and luckily I was in Darwin on one of these days. It was quite a long walk, especially in the simmering heat. However, I made it there and was appalled by all these people being there as well. There were international food trucks - Chinese, Thai, Greek, American, Hungarian, you name it - and lots of art and cloth stands. Some musicians played their guitars and the people filed down the Mindil Beach as if there were no other beaches around town. I didn't quite understand all the noise about the Mindil Beach (Sunset Markets), but I was still glad to get a Smoothie there to take me back to the hostel. The walk felt nearly endless, but I made it in the end.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Cathedrale Termite Mound
    Magnetic termitesBeautyFlorence FallsFlorence Shadow Creek WalkFrom lush vegetation to burnt SavannahSpot itTurkey BushTolmer FallView over Litchfield NPBroken Beauty

    Litchfield NP Pt 1 - Falling Down

    May 19, 2023 in Australia

    Today I went on another day trip with AAT Kings, this time our destination was the Litchfield National Park.
    Entering the coach, I saw that this tour was way more diverse in age, which was a little bit of a bummer. The atmosphere is completely different when there are just older people (and one young - me). Now you could really feel that the people were more divided, it wasn't such a great vibe as to Kakadu NP.
    Our first stop was the Cathedral Termite Mounds. These little see-through insects can build 5m tall mounds that just look astonishing. It's weather resistant which is very important considering the unbearable heat in dry season and floods in wet season. Another rather fascinating kind of termites are the Magnetic Termites who build their mounds always in north-south direction so that one side of it is always cool. Amazing, isn't it?
    The next stop was Florence Falls where we could go swimming if we wanted to. That was the cue I was waiting for!
    I went to the viewing platform to overlook the waterfalls, then went down the 135 steps. It was a pretty heavy stream, so I decided to not swim directly in the Florence Falls plunge pool but to go up the Shadow Creek Walk and find another plunge pool there. Strolling up the hill, I saw how the vegetation turned from a lush and vibrant green to a burnt black vastness that looks very unhealthy, though it is just preventing uncontrollable bush fires to destroy the beautiful nature. It still looks quite odd, to be fair.
    I finally found a good place to go into the cold, icy water (I'm sure it was not less than 20°C but when you're in 30°C heat, it feels like ice at first) and jumped because of a fish that was nibbling curiously on my feet.
    The water was so clear, I could see every single fish move around without any trouble. This pause was quite refreshing.
    After relaxing and watching the fish a bit, I made my way back to the coach. Whilst my bare feet hurt on the ground, my body dried off in the midday sun, so that it was rather easy to change back to my normal clothes.
    When putting my bathing suit onto a stone in the sun to dry, I watched a little lizard making its way through the leaves. Then we had to go to the next stop: Tolmer Falls.
    It's the highest single-fall in Litchfield NP and not available for swimming as it is a protected area. However, you've got quite a stunning view over the south of Litchfield NP from here.
    After this quick stop, we made our way back to the coach to get something in our stomachs.
    We ate at Litchfield Café, and I sat down next to an elder couple who quickly started talking to me. We talked about our origins, our plans, ours trip so far. And I shared the apple story with them. Again, I got lots of sympathy and disbelief that the penalty was so much out of proportion. Then, Robyn remembered that the man sitting behind them in the coach used to work for exactly that Infringement Unit. She just went to him, explaining my situation and asked what I could do. Answer: If I got the declaration document in English instead of German (my mother tongue) I would have a good case. So, my mood was lifted and I was very grateful for elder people's chattiness.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Wangi Falls
    Crocs are a real danger hereAn Orb spider with a belly full of eggsCranky IguanaFeeding BarramundiSome more beautiful mural

    Litchfield NP Pt 2 - Feeding Monsters

    May 19, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 31 °C

    After lunch, we drove back a bit to get to Wangi Falls (you pronounce it like one guy). They usually are the most visited place to swim beneath a waterfall. However, as there might still be salties lingering in the water there, it was still closed for swimming. But anyway, we could enjoy the magnificent view of the waterfall itself.
    I talked with some more elderly people about my travels and problems and was always positively surprised by the good chats we had.
    Then it was time for our last stop of the day: Howard Springs.
    The whole time, I understood Alice Springs, and I was quite confused because of that. But when I read the sign, I could calm down again. We wouldn't drive into the Outback today.
    We visited the Nature Park there to feed the barramundi in the lake. However, someone wanted to be fed first. The boss iguana lady there was laying on the bridge (the only bridge that would get us to the other side) and warming up. Obviously, she didn't want to leave her spot, so our whole group lined up behind Anthony (our driver) and waited for his orders. One of the others tried to scare her away with his feet, but that only made her even crankier. So, Anthony decided to bribe his way through. He took out the fish for the barramundi and gave her bit by bit, walking slowly in the aimed direction. Finally, she sat down in the bushes next to the bridge and we could all go through.
    We had a blast feeding the barramundi, watching them jump and eat the fish. The turtles next to them looked so funny with their way-too-long necks, paddling about.
    When we wanted to get back to our coach however, the cranky iguana sat on her spot again. She wouldn't leave it, so Anthony took his last fish (he spared it in case that would happen) and tried to bribe her again. This time, only he got through. "I'm gonna get the coach to the other side, go there", he shouted across the lake. And so we made our way to avoid the iguana lady and, with laughter, hop onto the coach on the other side.
    Safe in our bus, we took off, going back to Darwin.
    When dropping off all the other people, I realized just how many murals were in Darwin. Nearly every other house had one painted on it. That made Darwin look way nicer and chill than without it and I decided to like at least that about Darwin, if not its heat.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Daintree meets Great Barrier Reef
    Leaving DarwinCan you see the happy Loch Ness?Salt PansDried out riverGreen mountainsArriving in Cairns

    Flying through Landscapes

    May 20, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 24 °C

    I woke up at 3.30am to get myself ready for my flight to Cairns. I gave called a taxi for 4.30am, so that I would arrive at time for my flight. From Germany, I'm used to being at least 2hrs beforehand at the airport. When I arrived at DRW and asked where to check-in, they told me I would have to wait another hour until 5.40am for the check-in. So small is the DRW that you need for the complete process of checking in and going through the security check less than an hour. Insane!
    But I used my time wisely, calling my mom and writing down my blog. Time flew and I was through everything, taking off.
    And I was just taking lots of pics because of the different landscapes of Australia, so here you go.
    The service on the TAS flight was actually better than expected. I've got some fried veggie corn-zucchini thingys and as dessert a Lindt (!) chocolate. I don't want to know how expensive that chocolate is around here...
    After landing in the most stunning scenery of an airport ever, I immediately found my driver and Robyn from the AOT FAM-Trip who greeted me dearly. I was the first to arrive today, she told me. She would live on that airport today...
    But my driver and I took off to one of the most picturesque drives of my life.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    LobbyBarPoolMuralKitchenetteBedroomBathroom

    Oaks Port Douglas Resort

    May 20, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 25 °C

    After the most scenic drive from Cairns to Port Douglas (where I didn't take any pics as the windows were rather dirty), I arrived at my hotel for the next two nights, Port Oaks. It has a really chill vibe to it which I found rather intoxicating until I couldn't get into my room early (although an Early-Check in was booked). But when I finally got into my room and saw a washing machine and a dryer, all was good again and I even decided to get a way overpriced pizza from the pool bar - just because the next supermarket was 2km away though.Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Welcome to the 4 mile beach
    Growing coconutOne sideOther sidePanoramaWho else gets Hawaiian vibes?JungleBirds$25...seriously?Port Douglas CarnivaleParty time

    4 Mile Beach

    May 20, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 25 °C

    As I've been waiting for my room to get ready, I decided to explore the 4 Mile Beach that was just behind the golf course in front of the hotel. So, I took the towel from reception and strolled along a jungle-like path. I saw lots of geckos hiding away between the bushes and coconuts that luckily haven't fallen onto my head. Then I saw a light at the end of the tunnel and my goodness was that beautiful! I don't know why, but I have the feeling I'm on Hawaii because of how the 4 Mile Beach looks. Wide sandy beach and the hills on the other side. I don't know... Maybe both places are look-alikes. After the coral ocean went from feeling cold to warm, I wandered back to the hotel - with a fresh soul and mind.
    Finally, my room was ready. Good for them as I became rather hangry. When I saw the kitchenette, I thought I'd maybe could go to a supermarket and cook something for myself. However, when I googled it, the next supermarket was 2km away - ain't gonna happen, darling... So, I figured that it was time to bite in the sour apple (as we say in German) and buy a highly overpriced pizza.
    I just finished eating that, when my room mate Lana arrived. We hit it off from the get-go and chatted the whole time, finding more and more things we have in common. We went to the pool, didn't go into it completely though as it was rather fresh. A while later, it was time to meet the others and go to our first event: The Port Douglas Carnivale.
    It's a festival kind of event which takes place over a couple of days and has lots of different things included, e.g. kite flying, dog contests or musical acts. Today, we were enjoying a picnic-like dinner in a secluded area (with Security guards - we felt like VIPs), listening to some famous rock band playing in front of us. It's been quite cool, also with talking to some of the other people being on the trip. It's interesting how easy it sometimes gets getting to know strangers.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Walu Wugirriga Lookout
    Sugar CanesDaintree NPMossman GorgeHuge spider - see the comparison?Daintree RiverDaintree River the 2ndLunch at Heritage LodgeCreek at Heritage Lodgd

    Daintree NP - Jungle and River

    May 21, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 23 °C

    Lana and I woke up early today, going to breakfast to strengthen ourselves for the day.
    Today our group would drive to the Daintree National Park. We drove past huge fields of sugar canes that has just the right weather conditions in that part of Queensland to grow. Unfortunately, we don't get Australian sugar in Germany as it is mostly exported to Japan and South Korea.
    First we went to see the Mossman Gorge and learn a bit about the different plants and creatures living there. I still have the feeling, that I'm in a big, special zoo where everything is planned - it feels so surreal. The huge boulders in the Gorge are moved aside by the water. Millimeter for millimeter, but still. We also saw lots of huge spiders and learned how scientists melked some of them to create an armor and a cloak from spider silk. I really love science.
    We had some morning tea and drove further to the River Cruise along the Daintree River. We saw some tiny baby crocs, hiding behind the mangroves, and huge crocs swimming casually next to us.
    Our bus had to cross the river by ferry, as that was the only most direct way to the northern part of the Daintree NP. After we weren't eaten by the crocs, we jumped back on the coach which drove us up a very bumpy serpentine road to the Wula Wugirriga lookout where we had a stunning view over Port Douglas.
    Driving a bit further, we stopped at the Heritage Lodge to eat our very delicious lunch and dip our fingers into the cool creek afterwards. Luckily, you can swim in the creek without worrying about the crocs, but only 3 miles down the river, everywhere are signs to beware about the crocs. I actually think, they are becoming my favourite animals!    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Mangroves
    Kulki LookoutCape TribulationA coconut in the makingAchtung!That's not chocolate!Dinner - Ricotta Gnocci on beet rootDesert: Brownie with Macadamia nuts

    Cape Tribulation - Surrealness

    May 21, 2023 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 25 °C

    After we were stuffed, we drove to Cape Tribulation. Here in the late 18th century, the well-known explorer James Cook hit the Great Barrier Reef and damaged his ship the Endeavor. That's also the only place in the world, where two World Heritage Sites are found side by side: Daintree NP and the Great Barrier Reef.
    It looks so much like a green screen or a Windows background that I just can't believe it. It looks as if I could touch it and realizer that it's all just painted on a piece of paper. It's crazy. But it actually can be rather dangerous because of the boxed jelly fish or the salties that are lurking in the sea for you. After we made sure, nobody gets eaten, we went to eat something ourselves. At the Daintree Ice Cream Company, we found ourselves next to some delicious ice cream with flavors like coconut, strawberry, black sapote (the one looking like chocolate) and coffee cherry (my fav).
    Finally, we made our way back home and had 2hrs resting time before we met up with the other group in our hotel for a rather filling dinner.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Hello there
    Wombat TonkaCamouflageCheekyCuddlingSsssnakeBig boyJust chillingSunbathingMe and a Koala

    Hartley's Crocodile Adventures

    May 22, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 22 °C

    This morning we had to check out of the Oaks' and headed straight towards Hartley's Crocodile Adventure. On the way there, the serpentine roads made me so sick again that I had to concentrate rather hard to follow the others around the zoo-like area. We saw lots of crocs again (no matter the size), as well as super interesting reptiles like komodos or venomous snakes. We could also pet a wombat called Tonka which actually has a shield underneath its fur to protect from potential predators. And for most of my folks, the taking of their photo whilst holding a koala was their highlight of the day. I must admit I'm not a big fan of zoos and especially not of using the animals to generate even more cash, so I didn't quite like that bit. However, I still took the chance, so I can't really play the devil's advocate here.
    My favourite Australian animals might actually be the crocs, just because nobody can tell them what to do, everyone pays them the respect they deserve and whoever is stupid enough to do not, becomes croc-biscuit.
    We also had the chance to go into a private sector of the park where we could directly interact with the kangaroos and wallabys. I don't know, there is something so chill about kangaroos, like they are just some random hippie dude relaxing on the beach side, checking out girls. It's so fun to watch them.
    After our tour there, we had some of the best "morning teas" ever - with savory croissants, little cucumber sandwiches, éclairs, muffins, sushi etc. And the meat-lovers could try some crocodile - it apparently tastes a bit like chicken, they said. I would much rather just stick with watching them when their alive.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Kuranda Skyrail
    Nice viewFast forwardHold on tightJurassic GiantsBarossa FallKoala GardensWelcome to BirdsWorldHello KasparWhat are you looking at?Kuranda Scenic Railway

    Kuranda - Scenic Views and Animals

    May 22, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☀️ 24 °C

    After eating the "morning tea" we drove further to jump on the Skyrail to Kuranda. We relaxed into the gondolas and rode our way up the hills of the big Wet Tropics (which includes e.g. Daintree or Barossa NP, it's all the same rainforest, just different names basically). Half-way up, we took a quick look onto the different plants and trees growing in the rainforest. It's rather fascinating what kind of tactics each and every plant evolved over the millions of years to get to the most sunlight. We also were on the lookout to the Barossa Falls, which looked stunning.
    Then we took of with another gondola of Skyrail to Kuranda, a village far up the top of the Wet Tropics. We briefly visited Koala Gardens and Birds World, two small but nice parks to have not too many people around and time to interact with the animals. Then it was time for lunch again and gosh was I full! I definitely wouldn't starve whilst being here...
    Then we jumped on to the Kuranda Scenic Railway which took us back to Cairns giving us some amazing views and some chill time in the waggon.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    My single room at Pullman
    BathroomView from the balconySeating areaLobbyLobby in NovotelPool NovoRoom NovoOn the menu at NovoDinner with Jackfruit as meat substitute

    Hotel Check-in and Inspection

    May 22, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ⛅ 22 °C

    After we arrived with the Scenic Railway, we were brought to our hotels. I was staying in the Pullman Cairns International, in a single room! And dear lord, I came into the room and was in love. It was so stylish, so spacious but not too much, it has a nice vibe to it and it was all just for me. The people at AOT really wanted to pamper us here.
    But unfortunately, I couldn't enjoy my room for long, as we were about to go to yet another hotel to eat dinner and then inspect. We drove to the Novotel Cairns Oasis Resort, which has a fabulous, laid back atmosphere about it. We've got colourful cocktails and some delicious taco-buffet and dessert to full our tummies. It was a great atmosphere in the group. The site inspection was actually rather short, but still interesting, as I usually know Novotels only as airport hotels. But that one in Cairns is completely different - in a good way.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    The logo of Dreamdive
    Not a good daySome random fish from Underwater ObservatoryDriver stationGlass bottom boatMotivationLobby at Crystalbrook RileyPaper Crane RestaurantFooood

    The Great Barrier Reef

    May 23, 2023, Great Barrier Reef ⋅ 🌬 23 °C

    Today was the first day of the trip I was actually underwhelmed. The weather forecast had been awful for a day out on the Reef, and I was thinking about changing to the Waterfall Wanderers Tour. However, when you're in Australia, you kinda have to go there, especially as a travel agent.
    So, I took a Vomex after breakfast and embraced myself for the worst.
    The way there was actually quite alright. The Vomex did its job perfectly well and I was sitting at the sundeck next to Lisa and Kasper. Whilst the water was splashing in my face and I had a sideway shower, I laughed toward the rough wind. I thought it was funny how wet I was getting because of the waves that were crashing down on the boat.
    But when we arrived at the plotoon, I wasn't so happy about it anymore. I didn't feel seasick (thanks to Vomex), but I just thought it would be an awful day to go snorkeling. The waves were super high and I could feel the current against my body already.
    However, I put on a very sexy wetsuit, fins and snorkeling gear, and jumped in the water. I was looking forward to using my DJI Osmo Action cam in its usual habitat. I would get upset pretty soon, as it wouldn't work at all. Was it broken? Low on battery? I hoped for the latter, as I couldn't afford another DJI cam and honestly didn't want it to be broken. I only used it like 3 times.
    Luckily, Michelle, our guide for today, told me I could rent a camera and get the photos afterwards for free. So I took on the opportunity and went back into water. It really was that choppy and I couldn't relax at all. I was constantly watching either my flowing direction, other people (there were like 100 other people on the Katamaran, all going into the water) or fish getting too close to my comfort zone. I also had to chuck out the salt water from my snorkel every other minute as it kept on flowing into it. And to be quite real: The Great Barrier Reef wasn't that great after all. Because of the weather, the water wasn't as clear and I couldn't really see many interesting fish. I was just so stressed from the whole experience that I took a bunch of random photos, hoped that at least some of them were alright, and went out the water for good. I was so cold and my dress was still wet from the way to the plotoon that I shivered. Hopefully, I wouldn't get a cold because of that. I got rid of the wetsuit and bathing suit, and put on my dry underwear. On top of it, a towel and I could grab some lunch, waiting for my dress to dry off.
    After lunch, we went to see the fish got fed at the underwater observatory, which again, I found rather boring. Then we went upstairs to the lab and learned a bit about the coral protection programs. I knew all about that already, though.
    When all the others left for either a second dive or a guided snorkeling tour, I instead went on a quick trip on the Glass Bottom Boat. Again, a lot of disappointment there, as there were no interesting fish to see.
    Yes, the Great Barrier Reef is a bit more colourful and it has a lot of fish there, but to be quite frank: I'd always prefer the Maldives reefs over it. Not many people, lots of interesting (and also for snorkelers) accessible fish and under water wildlife, and the currents aren't an issue there (obv. always depending on where you stay there). I guess, it's way better when there is good weather, but I still think there would be too many people at one place and it just wouldn't be as chill to watch fish because you just don't have the time to watch individual fish interacting. Well, I can tick it off my bucket list anyway.
    After everyone came back, we could finally go back to Cairns which took about 1h 45min and was much dryer than the way out to the Reef as we stayed inside this time. I was very happy to wash all the salt water off of me and dress in dry clothes again.
    This evening we went to Crystalbrook Raileys to have a little site inspection and than a rather huge dinner that took about 2,5hrs with 4 servings. The best one was obviously dessert (as usual). Their brownies were just mesmerising. The other Asian food was alright but not the whole "only little portions at a time" kind of serving. I'll never be a gourmet.
    We came back home at 10pm and I had to pack all my stuff back into the tiny backpack (9kg for 4 weeks and 3 different climates). Tomorrow would be an early rise at 5.20am...    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    New headbandHappy GiraffeKoalas and KangaroosEntree: Mac&Cheese CrocettesMain: Garlic Oil GnocchiDessert: Winter Crumble (I did finish that tho, too good)Switch off the lights!

    Flying to Launceston

    May 24, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 14 °C

    Today was a travel day. We had to leave our rooms at 6am to go to Cairns Airport and check in for our first flight to Brisbane. When waiting for the boarding, I found a beautiful headband in Aboriginal Art style and couldn't resist buying it.
    When we left Cairns, I could see dots and pieces of the Great Barrier Reef, which was really cool. Lana actually did a helicopter flight yesterday over the GBR... That must have been fantastic. Another thing for my bucket list...
    Then we had a long Layover in Brisbane, and strolling around the shops we found very funny socks and oven gloves, as well as great chocolates.
    Finally, we landed in Launceston, North of Tasmania and checked in to our hotel for tonight: Best Western Plus. To be quite frank, I don't see any plus for that hotel. Everything was looking extremely depressing being in all shades of grey. Luckily, we'd leave tomorrow morning.
    Anyway, we still had dinner to come which we had in Cateract on Paterson. It was one of the best meals so far, but I was so full from the Vietnamese summer rolls and doughnut that we ate at the airport, as well as the crisps and cake that I got on the plane (apparently, I had booked a class with $10 and $15 to spent on the bord menue), that I couldn't eat very much of it. A shame, really.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Bay of Fires
    Tasmanian weather...Cheese tastingPanorama from Panorama HotelArtBay of FiresSplish SplashHello freedomMost Scenic DriveBlow Hole in BichenoThe Red Grave

    Driving along the Tasmanian East Coast

    May 25, 2023 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 13 °C

    Today we were checking out of the depressing Best Western Plus and driving toward St. Helens at the East Coast. On the way there, I was rather confused by the landscape of Tasmania. It gave me impressions of Ireland, but with weird inputs of tropic plants. Lana summed it up really nice: A tropical bush savannah. That's something people can relate to, right?
    On our way to St. Helens we stopped at Pyengana Cheese Factory and Café, where we did a cheese tasting. I liked the vintage one the most. Then we set off to our next tummy-filling stop in St. Helen's: The Panorama Hotel. We were able to inspect the site which was directly located at the river and got its name from that panorama. They also had a lot of local artists work hanging around which were amazing. After seeing the rooms, we sat down to eat lunch.
    Then we drove on to the Bay of Fires which had an amazing atmosphere to it. The wind was blowing like crazy and it was super cold, but the vibe was just screaming: Freedom!
    Leaving the Bay of Fires behind, we got onto the most Scenic Driveway to Bicheno, directly next to the sea. Green, blue and yellow, sheep and cows, trees, beaches and ferns where interchanging the whole time and it was just a gorgeous view.
    We finally arrived at Bicheno and visited the Blowhole there. It did wet a lot of our people, but luckily not me. I was exploring around the red boulders around the blowhole. They just look mesmerising.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Penguins!
    Ladies and Gents: LanaLots of bedsBathroomPoolVegetarian SchnitzelOrange Almond Cake

    Penguins in Bicheno

    May 25, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 10 °C

    After leaving the blowhole behind, we checked in to our next hotel for the night: Beachfront Bicheno.
    Lana and I got a pool view room with lots of beds inside to spread our stuff onto.
    The lady from Tourism Board Tasmania told us that there could be penguins around at dusk, so we went looking for them. And there they were! Just two of them, hiding under a boat but dear goodness were they cute! We watched them closely until it was time to head back for dinner at our hotel. The food was alright but nothing in comparison to the food from yesterday. I guess, nothing could top that so easily...Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Wineglass Bay Lookout
    Sunrise in BichenoFreycinet NPWhat kind of tree is that?Guarding sheepThe panoramaWineglass Bay BeachWallabyDevil's CornerPinot NoirDriving South

    Freycinet NP - Wineglass Bay

    May 26, 2023 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 8 °C

    Today we left Bicheno and it's beautiful sunrise behind to go further south in the direction of Hobart.
    Our goal for today: Wandering Freycinet National Park.
    So we drove through the brilliant landscape that Tasmanian East Coast is until we arrived.
    We took the Wineglass Bay Lookout route which took about 40min and was a steep way up up the hill. The vegetation is just brilliant. So weird but atmospheric.
    We stopped to catch some breath along the way, but finally, we got there. It was so beautiful.
    In the 19th century, that bay was used to hunt whales down and because of all the blood in the water, from above, it looked like a wineglass - therefore the name. Luckily, these times are over.
    As we had more than enough time, we headed down to the Wineglass Bay Beach, which again was a steep way, but now downwards. But the way was totally worth it, the place was fantastic. Unfortunately, we had to go back without much time to enjoy it. So we wandered off, blushing all over from the walk. Thank goodness, it wasn't that hot!
    And this again was worth it, because as we arrived at the car park, a Wallaby was strolling around our coach behind some bushes.
    After everyone arrived back from their walks, we headed off to Devil's Corner, a restaurant and winery with lots of sheep around. We tasted some wine (my fav was the Sparkling White Wine) and ate loads of delicious pizza.
    When everyone's tummy was full, we drove off towards Hobart.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler

    The Energy of Tasmania

    May 26, 2023 in Australia ⋅ ☁️ 13 °C

    On the way to Hobart, we were driving along the East Coast and through the Midlands. If I wasn't in love with Tassie before, I definitely was now.
    The vibe of Tassie is just different. It doesn't try to be anything else but itself. It's rough and raw, it's a natural beauty. The colours all look washed out, as if you'd be in a different time. The houses look like that as well.
    It's bush savannah with tropical looking trees, lots of British sheep and a Wild West vibe.
    I listened to the song "On the brink" by KR3ATURE, and it just matched 100% the atmosphere of Tassie.
    I love it and I would love to stay here for far longer to rinse my soul.    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    The Neck: Tasman Sea on the left, Channel to the right
    The Channel to Bruny IslandHoneyyyyTriganini LookoutHola peoplePenguin combsTwo Tree PointAnd its beachAnd with meCheese tasting: One-Day-Old, Tom, Saint

    Bruney Island - Rough Beauty

    May 27, 2023 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 12 °C

    Today we had to leave super early to be able to catch the ferry to Bruny Island. It's a "little" island (just as big as Singapore, little for Australia) right in front of Kettering. Bruny Island was actually spelled Brunie before, but as there was a small village called Burnie and the mail mailed lots of wrong post to people, they decided to change it to Bruny.
    We boarded the ferry with our todays driver Phil and watched the beautiful sunrise above the water.
    Then we headed straight towards a honey tasting which was delicious. In fact, I got some great hand creme made with honey as it was feeling and smelling so nicely. But I couldn't buy any honey as I'm not allowed to bring that into Western Australia where we're headed tomorrow. As I didn't want to pay yet another fine or throw something away, I just left the honey there.
    Next stop was The Neck, which has a lovely lookout, named after an aboriginal woman called Triganini. You just have the best views from there. And down at the beach of the Tasman Sea, there are loads of combs that penguins use to nest inside.
    Next stop was the Two Tree Point where the first European Settlers set foot on Bruny Island. We did some cheese (and oyster) tasting there. I liked the ODO the best. It stand for One Day Old and was soaked in olive oil and peppers. Yummy!    Read more

  • Michelle EichenbergMy Time in Down UnderTraveler
    Cape Bruny Lighthouse
    Inside the lighthouseViewViewViewView with bushPizza at Bruny HotelView from the Crowne PlazaEntree: Goat Cheese Mustard with tomatoesDessert: Panacotta cheese cake with berries and creme

    Bruny Island - Windy Lights

    May 27, 2023 in Australia ⋅ 🌬 14 °C

    After filling our tummies, we drove further south to Cape Bruny Lighthouse which isn't in use anymore but for history reasons. We went all the way up to the top and had an amazing view. We actually learned that lots of lighthouse keepers got very sick because of the metal they used back in the day. It's called the Mad-Hatters-Disease and made these people literally go crazy. Horrible!
    Anyway, we had lunch at the Bruny Hotel where I used my included drunk to get one of the famous Apple Cherry Ciders. It had 8%, and hell, I felt that! I'm not used to alcohol at all and it made me really tipsy. Shandy (basically Radler) is what I usually drink when I want something alcoholic, but that doesn't go over 5%. So it was really tough on me.
    I couldn't really relax and wait for the alcohol to wear off, as we went to a chocolate tasting directly after that. Luckily, it was only three different flavors and everyone was done after 5min, so we went back to the coach.
    We drove back to the hotel and for the first time in this trip, we got a bit time to spend for ourselves in which we didn't only have time to hop under the shower and get ready for dinner.
    So Lana and I decided to explore Hobarts city centre a bit. I actually found a quite nice magnet for my Mom to bring home and so I was happy. However, the city centre was nearly deserted. At 5pm... No wonder people don't go out and about anymore - if nothing is open, why the hassle?
    So we were basically just wandering around, trying to find our way back to the hotel. We finally managed to and had some time to rest our feet.
    Then we went straight to the Crowne Plaza hotel to have a site inspection (very fancy place, not really for our usual STA Travel client) and dinner. The bread and entree were very good but they really butchered it with the main. For me as a vegetarian it was really just Spaghetti with tomato sauce. And don't get me wrong: I like that, it's completely fine as a dish. But I hate when someone tries to make it seem fancy, but it really isn't. And the meatlovers dish wasn't better: It was a naked chicken leg with brown mushrooms and three frozen peas on it. It looked really poor. Nothing like we had the last couple of nights. Dessert was good again though. So, tough crowd, I reckon.
    Tomorrow I could finally have a bit of a sleep in, as Lana and I would be in Group 2, officially starting our day at 9.10am. That means, I can sleep until 8am. Lucky me!    Read more

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