I travel therefore I am... The hero in my own story

Much time has passed since my last post, I am sure things have happened too... I've just been too busy to notice...

I have been working my little tooshie off in the past few months, hopefully all of the pain has been worth it.

Tomorrow I head to Amsterdam for the weekend, cannot wait to visit Anne Frank's house and a couple of other exciting museums that the country has to offer. Next weekend I become homeless as I pack up all of my possessions in preparation to send them back to the Mother Land. By November 14th I'd have finished work in London and will be departing the city on a 24 day tour around Europe.. Safe to say that I cannot wait!

Whoops, pretty sure a trip to Amsterdam has been and gone.. More about that later.

So a Summer abroad- when I hear that I think of trips to the Greek Islands, sipping cocktails, bliss.. Well, for me, it was working 80 hour weeks over 5 jobs. The silly thing is that I loved every minute. I find that for the moment, I am tired of being in a classroom, bored of the structure, not satisfied. So lucky for me, I was able to nanny for an amazing family with three children aged 6 and under. I also was a bar-wench at the elitist bar in Shepherds Bush, more affectionately known as the Walkabout, a dog-sitter and a netball umpire.. Jack of all trades that's for sure.

The nanny was something totally new for me, I mean, fair enough, I have baby sat once or twice, but holey moley, it certainly gave me even greater appreciation for my mother.. Raising three children, high five you Bev. This family had connections to quite an important English family.. My goal for when I got to London was to marry Prince Harry... Let's just say, I've never been closer.. I came, I sawish... I am yet to conquer. Oh well..

The Walkabout in SheBu, anyone from the Southern Hemisphere who has been to London, knows the importance of this bar for us Antipodeans. The pubs classic drink is the Snakebite, a potent combination of cider, beer and black currant cordial, may sound harmless.. Far from it.. This pub pulled its last pint on October 6, a sad day for all.. Working the closing weekend has been one of the greatest experiences that I have had over here. The hours were long, but the staff were amazing. I'll give you an example... Friday October 5, I worked all day as a teacher, starting work at the bar at 7pm. I worked through until 2am, 2:30 by the time I got home. Not awesome but tolerable.. I was back at the bar for my shift at 11am Saturday. Between then and 5:15am Sunday morning, I had one toilet break.. The things you do to ensure that the patrons are kept happy. This was on of the funnest nights ever. Customers were more than happy to buy you a shot or a double, and I was more than happy to accept. The band (some Kiwi band I think..) played some decent tunes before rocking the night out with the DJ. my dear friends Charlie and Amy were more than happy to put their hands up to help staff the bar, as we were severely understaffed, to them I take my hat off. Was a tough gig. From there I went to a friend's house for a shower, managed to down half a chicken baguette before falling a sleep in the tub and stumbling back into work for the 7am start. All I can really remember is desperately needing some dry socks as my shoes were soaked and stockings just weren't going to cut it. Safe to say that I am not sure how I survived the weekend, and it took be the best part of a week to recover, still one of the best jobs I have ever had ;)

I am pretty sure my birthday happened in there too somewhere.. Mass beers, and great friends ensure I had a sensational day!




Well, well, well... So much has happened since I started writing this post.. I am going to try and fit as much in as I can without boring you to tears!


My birthday, not only did it fall on AFL grand final day, it also fell on the day of the TNT travel show! My advice to you is get drunk and book a trip of a life time!


Here is what I got up to in the final month of my year abroad!

Day 1: Paris

Our Topdeck trip begins early this morning in London, was only to happy to depart from The Clink- a dodgy hostel in London's Red Light District. First stop-France and the world’s most popular city break destination. It was on the Ferry from Dover to Calais that I had the privilege of meeting Matt, a young man on our trip who at that point in time was struggling with the pork sausage, it was here a friendship was made. First night, we were lucky enough to see the city by night, simply magnificent. 

Day 2: Paris

Our free day in Paris gives us a chance to explore the city at our own pace. Among the city's most famous attractions are the Louvre, Notre Dame Cathedral, Pompidou Centre, Napoleon's Tomb and the impressive Musée d'Orsay. As I was on a very tight budget, I took the time to wander around one of my favourite European cities. I had to marvel in the fact that this was my second time in this city, how lucky am I? Most people don't even get there once. I spent the day wandering around the catacombs and the Père Lachaise Cemetery, seeing the graves of people such as Oscar Wilde and Marcel Marceau. Lunch was had at the quintessential French café, of course wine was on the menu.

Day 3: Swiss Alps

A very, very long but scenic drive apparently ( I got quite ill and slept the whole way, stupid bus sickness), today as we make our way to the stunning country of Switzerland and the gorgeous Swiss Alps. We pass incredible landscapes and fairy-tale villages as we draw closer to our accommodation. Our base in the village of Lauterbrunnen was set in a deep valley, flanked by towering cliffs from which waterfalls tumble, framed by the snowy peaks of Europe’s great mountain range, the Alps – A majestically place that I certainly fell in love with. Remember that time KG wet the bed?

Day 4: Swiss Alps

A free day in the snowy Swiss Alps! I took the option to ride the historic Jungfraubahn railway to the highest station in Europe, which sits atop the Jungfrau Mountain. At over 12000ft high it deserves its nickname, the ‘Roof of Europe’. Remember that time KG peed on Matt?

Day 5: Florence

Benvenuti in Italia! Our Topdeck adventure continued as we entered Italy. On the way we made a short stop in Pisa for the chance to grab a snap of the Leaning Tower, and my first Italian gelato before we drove through the Tuscan countryside to Florence, the home of Renaissance art, gold and silver markets, great shopping and even better food! Florence nightlife certainly didn't disappoint...  Remember that time CR and SJ puked EVERYWHERE?

Day 6: Florence

My day begun with a walking tour led by a local guide, she certainly knew her stuff. She unveiled treasures including the Duomo (Cathedral), Ponte Vecchio, Piazza della Signoria and many more exquisite buildings and monuments. Florence is considered to be an ‘outdoor museum’, and it was fairly obvious why as I got up close to the replica of Michelangelo’s ‘David’ statue.  

Day 7: Rome

We departed for Italy’s capital – the ‘Eternal City’ of Rome, with a few sore heads. On the way we stopped at the hilltop city of Orvieto where we can check out the Duomo (Cathedral), another bloody magnificent building. When we arrived in Rome, we went on a walking tour with our Topdeck Trip Leader Extraordinaire, Clair, to visit the city’s most incredible locations, including the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, the ancient Roman Forum, the Colosseum and to the place where Julius Caesar was murdered. This landmark is now a cat sanctuary. Bet ya didn't know that. Clair showed us the BEST gelato shop IN THE WORLD!!! 150 flavours! Beat that!

Day 8: Rome

A free day to enjoy Rome! I visited Pope Francis at the Vatican City, I wouldn't mind living there myself... Today I was also able to go exploring in the ancient Roman forums, the mighty Colosseum and the Palantine Hill area (the ancient commercial and political heart of Rome). I loved Rome, first time I have felt that way about a place since Egypt. Sensational! AND SO MUCH GELATO!!

Day 9: Venice

Venice, the city of canals and gondolas. We stopped En route at Verona, made famous by the delectable Juliette Montague as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Here I visited Juliet’s Balcony and also see the impressive Arena (an ancient Roman amphitheatre). 

Day 10: Venice

Today was free day to explore extraordinary Venice – a maze of canals, bridges, squares and incredible artworks. The town centre was flooded, which I don't think is completely unusual, but was made fun by a plastic gumboot accessory. It was on this night we had our masquerade ball. Glorious masks as far as the eye could see.. And by that I mean about 15 masks and 10 gondoliers. Mass buckets were being consumed, the night ended abruptly when my dear friend Chloe slipped off the stage and required stitches in her head... The good friend I am, I escorted her in the ambulance, and was sure to laugh the loudest when pushing her in her wheelchair the 15 metres to the toilet.

Day 11: Salzburg

Onwards and upwards (quite literally) day 11 we made our way to the mountainous country of Austria. It was apparently another picturesque drive day- thank you travel sickness. Once in Austria we headed to home of the Sound of Music, Salzburg!

Day 12: Salzburg

A free day to enjoy Salzburg, and explore I did. I visited various locations from one of my childhood favourite films, The Sound of Music. The Mirabell Gardens, Nonnberg nunnery and Residenzplatz square were very much like I remembered in the film. By this stage of the trip everyone was getting pretty weary. Quite a few of us spent the night at the hostel and enjoyed the nightly viewing of The Sound of Music. 

Day 13: Vienna

 I am sure Vienna was lovely, but I can't remember much... Whoopsadaisies...

... 

Oh wait! Schnaps Factory! With 2 shots of schnaps included... I had 15.. Whoops.. I blame Robsy, my bucket buddy.

Day 14: Budapest

We make our way to Slovakia where we visit the capital Bratislava, an excellent mix of old and new. Made a quick visit Bratislava Castle, the Stará Radnica (Old Town Hall) and St Martin’s Cathedral and some other sights. After time to wander, and a few too many mulled wines, we headed on to Hungary and its grand capital, Budapest. The twin cities of Buda and Pest are situated on the banks of the mighty River Danube, and a driving tour around them with our Topdeck Crew takes in sights such as Heroes’ Square, Parliament House, Buda Castle and main boulevard Andrássy út. The views from here were sensational! 

Day 15: Budapest

Today I had a full day to explore the beauty of Budapest! I explored the fascinating markets and also paid a visit the moving House of Terror museum. House of Terror is a museum located at Andrássy út 60 in Budapest. It contains exhibits related to the fascist and communist dictatorial regimes in 20th-century Hungary and is also a memorial to the victims of these regimes, including those detained, interrogated, tortured or killed in the building. Hitler's car was pretty eerie... 

Day 16: Krakow

The place on tour that I was looking forward to the most, Poland, one of the most exciting and affordable countries in Europe according to the TopDeck guide. The ancient town of Krakow miraculously escaped the worst of World War II, and remains as the cultural heart of Poland. An introductory tour with our Topdeck Leader Clair takes in notable landmarks around the charming Old Town, including Wawel Castle, Market Square, Cloth Hall and St Mary's Basilica. 

Day 17: Krakow

Day 17 was a free day to explore Krakow’s intriguing, mysterious streets. One of Krakow’s top attractions is the former factory of Oskar Schindler, a saviour for many Polish Jews during the Holocaust and the man who inspired the Steven Spielberg film Schindler’s List. The museum is not so much a memorial to Schindler himself, but more on the regime itself and the murders that took place. The faces on the front wall were quite confronting. 

Day 18: Prague

A sombre start to the day as we visit the former concentration camps at Auschwitz and Birkenau. There are no words that I can use to describe the masses of emotion that I felt here. Walking the paths of many before me, the worn granite steps, seeing the living arrangements of my fellow human beings. Seeing many locations of senseless murders. The house where the commander Rudolf Hoss lived with his family, as well as the gallows used to kill him. The most shocking part of this entire visit would nearly have been the room of hair. Tonnes and tonnes of hair that had been shaved off the heads of the women and children before they were murdered. There were thousands of shoes and glasses and other loved possessions that the prisoners had hoped to keep. Walking into the gas chambers was quite confronting. You could see the scratch marks of the victims trying to escape. horrific. From here we headed to the Czech Republic and its beautiful capital Prague. An exhausting day.

Day 19: Prague

Prague is a favourite city amongst many, one that would be pretty high on my list too. Was stunning. I think we had a night out here, in fact I am sure we did. I think it was good.. But due to the mass consumption of mulled wine, I can't remember... 

Day 20: Berlin

First up, we stopped in 800 year old Dresden in Germany, a city which has heroically rebuilt itself following near-destruction during World War II. After seeing the symbolic Frauenkirche and other beautiful buildings we continued on to Berlin, Germany’s vibrant capital. A driving tour with our Topdeck Crew took in the remains of the Berlin Wall, the Brandenburg Gate, Reichstag building, Holocaust Memorial, Checkpoint Charlie and more impressive landmarks.

Day 21: Berlin

Berlin was mine to discover today. I heard all about the rise and fall of the Nazis on the‘Third Reich’ walking tour in the morning. On this tour I saw many interesting things that takes place in sites of historical significance including the spot where Hitler had his bunker and ultimately the place he died.. The rest of the day I spent in the ER waiting to see a doctor.. A four hour for a 10 minute appointment and then an hour and a half to find the drugs I needed.. Woo... What a waste of a day.. Oh well, will have to go back.. It was this night that we had our biggest night since Florence. We checked out some of Berlin's coolest nightspots.. Senbloodysational! 





Day 22: Amsterdam

WOWEE, so many hangovers today, lucky it was a fairly long drive to the Netherlands today. Lucky we stopped at the cheese and clog factory on the way too.. That was just what we needed :/

Day 23: Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a beautiful city, the highlight of this was definitely the bicycle tour! And so many ribs.. A group of ten went to an all you can eat rib joint, I certainly showed the boys what I am made of.. I won't disgust you all with the number of rack that I at.. Tonight I said goodbye to my TopDeck family before I headed back to London..

Was certainly an amazing trip, so many beautiful sights and so many amazing new friends! 

Next stop... THAILAND WOO!!!

*I will keep trying to upload the pictures for this, I am having a little trouble at the moment.. There are some cool ones... Actually shattered they haven't worked, they tell more of the stories while on tour.. *

“Do not follow where the path may lead. Go instead where there is no path and leave a trail”

Hey Gang,

Sorry about the delay in posting, life on the road has been hectic in the last few weeks, read on and you will see why.

Since my last post I have visited a few new countries, France and Ireland, I am also going to count Wales in there too. More about that later..

I have a thirst for knowledge, that probably doesn't come as a surprise to those of you who know me, I am thankful about the adventure that I am having. I have learned so much about not only the world, but also about myself. I have grown in many ways, (my ass included), and challenge myself everyday to be better than I was yesterday.

I have discovered that the only person you have any control over is yourself, everyone is different, and a person has no right to judge or criticise ones decisions. We have all walked different paths to get to where we are, we each have our own stories to tell. I am thankful for the people I have met, the stories that I have heard and the adventures that have been had!

Paris: In June my friend Charlie and I ventured to Paris to see one of my favourite bands, Of Monsters and Men. This was a bloody fantastic idea that I had.. Why see a band in London when you can travel the globe and see music at the same time? Paris has been a country that has been on my wish list since I was a child. It was definitely worth the wait. my excitement could not be controlled when I caught my first glimpse of the Eiffel Tower, I actually think I might have weed a little in my knickers. Happens to the best of us right? The three hour wait in the cold was definitely worth the wait once we got to the top... The journey up was interesting, being in an elevator in such an open area was a tad scary... As I said, worth it. The views we breathtaking. Watching the sun set over Paris in inexplicable, something that has to be seen to be believed. Being at the top of a structure that I'd only seen in books and postcards, looking down on famous streets and other architectural clumps around the city really did take my breathe away. Seeing the lights of the city, made my eyes a little moist. The gig was bloody fantastic, will try and see them again before I head home, but it wasn't even the best part! Exploring the city by day, then again by night was mind-blowing..

 Having travelled already for nearly 9 months means that my bank account has dwindled significantly, ask mum, she had the pleasure of opening a bank statement last week ;) There is something invigorating about being able to survive on minimal cash. Just because you don't have any money, doesn't mean you miss out on experiences or adventures.

I can't tell you my favourite things about Paris, I loved it all.

I often get asked about what my favourite country is, or the best thing I've done.. That's like asking "How is a raven like a writing desk", there are both many answers and none. I love everywhere I have been, but everywhere I have been has been for a different reason that can't be put in a favourite and not favourite column.

I didn't get that kiss under the Eiffel Tower, which I think every little girl imagines at some time, but I did get to drink wine and eat cheese under it. I think every single (not as in everyone, just ones without a partner... Just for clarification) girl would agree, that this is also a very good option.. I mean, who doesn't like cheese or wine!

I flew home from Paris as my good friend Rach had somehow managed to get her hands on centre court tickets for Wimbledon! Was a great day seeing Tomic, Stosur, Djokovich and S. Williams! Definitely worth the 8 hour bus ride! June 29th

Centre Court- Middle Saturday 2013

 

I finished work at the end of July for the Summer, somehow I needed to find ways to pay my rent for next month. Say hello to Anna Wiseman, teacher, dog-sitter, bar-wench, netball umpire and super nanny!! Sure am keeping myself busy! New found respect for bar tenders, such hard work for little reward! I do love the people I work with at the Shepherds Bush Walkabout though, and experience I am lucky to have! Thanks for having me guys!

Mumford and Sons on their Gentleman of the Road tour, Olympic Park, Stratford London- July 6

 

 

 London Holi Festival of Colour! New friends, much vodka consumed and so many pretty colours!!!
August 10th.

Before: Corinne, Emma, Anna, Rachel and Immo

 

 

Battersea Power Station. What a venue!

 

The thing I love about being a spontaneous traveller, even though I have no money, I can still figure stuff out so I can travel to Dublin to see Eminem.. The time couldn't be more perfect. The gig came 10 days after Alex's birthday, we always said that when Eminem came to Australia we'd go.. That never happened, but now I have seen him twice, blown my mind both times.

My trip to Dublin, 16-19 August, was a very last minute thing, I picked up some last minute nannying hours which gave me 200 quid which at the time was spare.. Oh how wrong I was.. Anywho. with that money I was able to book my ticket, a return bus journey (yes.. bus... oh dear lordy) and accommodation.. I was also lucky enough to have 20Euro cash left over from my trip to Paris.. How far could I make that go? The bus journey there was bearable, 9 hours on a bus, 3 on a ferry and halfa back in the bus later and there I was in Dublin.. I arrived at 6:30am, having been awake for almost 30 hours it was fair to say that I was knackered.. I think in my 12 hours journey I scored 2 hours sleep on the ferry.. Me being me, and having a terrible sense of direction I found a McDonald's and spent my first 4 Euros on breakfast ( I did make cheese and vegemite toasties for the bus ride, I ate them an hour in...) I also managed to steal some power and hack the wifi... Check-in for the hotel was not until 2:30pm. After hanging out in Maccas for 3 hours I felt a bit creepy, I ventured to the cool area of Dublin called Temple Bar and found my hostel. I stayed at Barnacles Temple Bar Hostel, recommend it for anyone staying in Dublin, very convenient location, a very nice hostel- http://barnacles.ie/.They told me that check-in was strictly 2:30, but that I could head up and hand out in the common room.. Thank you very much.. I chucked on my eye mask, pulled up my blanket, Ipod in and I was out!!! At 12, some noisy French kids came in and woke me, but as they were leaving someone came in, an Australian WOOOO! we started talking and we discovered that she was also going to the gig! I didn't have to go alone yay! We also ended up in the same room.. Small world... The gig itself was an eye opener.. It was at Slane Castle, a spectacular venue about 42km from Dublin, we got on the bus at 4, so many people already so hammered!!! We got talking to a few locals on the bus, if you call it that, basically they talked (and spat) and we tried to decipher.. Before getting off the bus, I'd seen more ass, penis and boobs than in a Miley Cyrus film clip, the bus even ran over a drunk girl.. Didn't even stop.. Welcome to Ireland!!!

Do you like pina coladas? or getting caught in the rain? Please note the garbage bag poncho.. I am the ideas man...

We got of the bus and ventured for about 4km through an eerie forest with mud sludges everywhere (I was wearing thongs, probably the only one who was.. Smart move I say!). Security was rigorous, 3 checkpoints before we even had to show our tickets! CRAZY! Made it, what a view when we walked in, the castle on the hill, the stage and 80,000 people! This may be a stereotype, but there are not many good looking man in Ireland.. I wish they'd keep their shirts on! The gig was an eye opener, so many violent drunks and people who didn't care, Men pushing women around, one learnt very quickly not to take on an Aussie school teacher, I will not be bullied and will not be moved by pushing.. All he needed to do was say excuse me and I would have shifted.. Simple.. Manners are free!

Areial view of 80,000 people

Eminem did not disappoint, they guy who lay passed out in a pool of his own vomit with his friends just giving him a little kick every now and then to see if he was still breathing and the bogan fights I saw just made the experience that little bit more... Irish???... Getting back to the buses was a trek, we put on our "walk really fast" hats and passed probably 10,000 people just so we didn't have to wait for a bus..

View of the stage and of Slane Castle

I did a walking tour of the city, a country full of history and many, many terrible decision... No wonder the country is in such a difficult position at the moment!

The bus ride home was longer, but made bearable by some awesome people that were on it.. We may have drank a little too much on the ferry, talked a lot of shit, but enjoyed the guitarring skills of one of them, a journey I won't forget!!!

Not much travel for me for the next few months, just saving my little behind off so I can tour Europe before I embark on a South East Asia tour in December!!! I am sure the adventures will keep coming though!! My bestest friends have booked their tickets.. 112 days until I see their beautiful, smiling faces.. I can't wait to share stories!

Thanks heaps again to everyone for the love, messages of support, care packages, letters, postcards and other means of communication! Keep it coming!!!

Love you all
xoxo

 

 

 

 

“A journey is best measured in friends, rather than miles.”
Read more at http://matadornetwork.com/bnt/50-most-inspiring-travel-quotes-of-all-time/#lxdIBiPLebKuit0g.99

When life gives you a hundred reasons to cry, show life that you have a thousand reasons to smile.

Well.. Here I am. I have made it to the 6 month mark. Are you surprised?

I am not. From the moment I decided to embark on this journey I knew that I would be successful. It wouldn't matter if I lasted three weeks, three months or even three years, I would still have succeeded. I tried without fear of failing and that is success enough.

I have had an amazing time so far. At times it's been challenging, but the personal growth I've accomplished has made me see just how much I can achieve. Over the last week I've had a list of six questions, I am going to try and answer them for you now.

1. What do I absolutely love in life?

This wasn't a difficult question. I am a girl that wears my heart on my sleeve. I hate drama and I hate bullshit, if I have an issue I will tell you. It is therefore relatively easy for me to make a list of things that I love. First and foremost, the thing I can't live without. Family. Family is anybody close to you so this extends to all my dear friends, old and new, too. Back in Australia, I never wore the latest fashions or carried the most expensive handbag, but I did like to have things. Over here, I have learnt that much more can be gained from experiences. I love that while I am here I can do the things I love, teach people, live through music and sport. Being here has reinforced some feelings that I was having back in Australia, I love teaching kids, but hate ( hate is such a strong word...), everything else that comes with it. I am excited about the changes to come. Music. I describe my life as a Broadway show. I say I don't like drama, but it always seems to follow me, but luckily enough, there is always a song that is relevant and suitable that I am singing. No one will ever stop me singing.

2. What are my greatest accomplishments in life so far?
This one is subjective. I will say though, that I am proud of myself. There, I said it! Why shouldn't I be able to say that though? I have overcome tremendous adversity to make my mark on the world. Everything that has happened to me has helped me to become the person I am. I like who I am. Greatest accomplishments, finishing high school after the suicide of my brother is one. The Grief. The loss has become significantly less traumatising over time and I accept Alex's suicide as a fact of my life. There are still days that are really hard, but I know that because I survived that, I can survive anything. Other great accomplishments include being the first person in my immediate family to graduate from University. My first real job. Most recently, it's having the guts to jump on a plane and live in a city on the other side of the world.

3. What would I stand for if I knew no one would judge me?

I am not really afraid of the judgements of others'. I stand up for what I believe in and I don't mind if I stand alone. I am lucky, I have brilliant friends and family who will usually stand beside me. I would like to see greater equality in this world.

4. If my life had absolutely no limits and I could have it all and do whatever I wanted, what would I choose to have and what would I choose to do?

My life has no limits. Well, perhaps some financial restraints, but that adds to the excitement of it. I am already doing what I want to do. I know who I am, what I want, who I want to be and what I need in order to achieve it all. I am not scared about taking risks, or failing, so that helps. I am doing what I want.

5. What would I do if I had one billion dollars?

Nothing in nature is superfluous. I don't need money to be truly happy, and while we all dream about being frivolous, I'd be quite content sailing off into the sunset with nothing but a great collection of books, possibly some great company and the simplicities of life. Being over here has made me realise that even more. I don't need stuff or things. There are many people that could make better use of that one billion dollars.

6. Who do I admire most in the world?

This question is a little more difficult. My mum is an incredible woman. I look up to her, and hope that I am making her proud. Everything she has done for me has not gone unappreciated. I can't wait to one day return the favour. I wouldn't be the woman I am today without the support of friends and family so thanks again to them all. Christopher McCandless aka Alexander Supertramp. His journey was in part, what inspired me to do mine. He has so many amazing quotes and I am going to borrow some.

“So many people live within unhappy circumstances and yet will not take the initiative to change their situation because they are conditioned to a life of security, conformity, and conservatism, all of which may appear to give one peace of mind, but in reality nothing is more damaging to the adventurous spirit within a man than a secure future. The very basic core of a man's living spirit is his passion for adventure. The joy of life comes from our encounters with new experiences and hence there is no greater joy than to have an endlessly changing horizon, for each day to have a new and different sun.” 

“If you want something in this life, reach out and grab it.”  

“Don´t hesitate or allow yourself to make excuses. Just get out and do it. Just get out and do it. You will be very, very glad that you did.”  

"I've decided I'm going to live this life for some time to come. The freedom and simple beauty is just too good to pass up.”  

and finally...

“Happiness only real when shared.”  

I don't think they need any explanation, but they are the principles that I have been living my life by since I began my journey 6 months ago. Don't worry though guys, I don't plan on dying in an old bus.

Obviously there are many people that I admire, but the last one I am going to mention is a kid from home. I met this young man a few years ago, just after he started his own journey. He's made me cry, made me laugh more often, I've worried about him, prayed for him, encouraged him, supported him. Because of him, I challenge myself to live everyday, because you really don't know when your last day is going to arrive. If he can smile going through what he's been through then I certainly can. So thank you, you know who you are. To his beautiful mum and sister, you are two amazing women with big hearts.

Next, my life has changed so much in the last 6 months and there are many more changes to come. This week I handed my resignation in from my teaching job back in Australia. It was with mixed emotion, but following Chris's advice “If you want something in this life, reach out and grab it.”   That's what I am doing. I've had some tough decisions to make in the last 6 months, but I have made them and am excited about the possibilities. A week after arriving in the UK I received an email from RMIT University in Melbourne. It came as a bit of a shock. With the support from my cousin I applied for a Uni course in the final week of lodgement back in July, I guess I never really expected to hear back from them, and with the excitement of moving to the other side of the world, I forgot. The email was acceptance into a university course of my dreams, something that I thought was so far out of reach, especially 7 years after finishing high school. But they wanted me. I deferred the course for 2013, but if all goes to plan, I will start studying next year. I am going back to Uni, five years, it will be hard, but I am excited. I really can do anything. I send my heartfelt thanks to everyone back at Highview for the love and support you've given me. I don't think I will every truly walk away from that place, but the gains I've made from them are indescribable.

Thank you to everyone for their continued love and support on my adventure, you believing in me has helped me to believe in myself. I love the postcards, letter, care packaged, emails, tweets, inboxes, snapchats, vibers, Skypes, whatsaps, everything!

Make everyday better than yesterday, may the best of your todays be the worst of your tomorrows. Keep your head up, keep your heart strong. Don’t you cry for the lost. Smile for the living. Get what you need and give what you’re given. Life’s for the living so live it or you’re better off dead.


Things I've done:
Travel alone
Moved to London
Been a tourist in London
Called London home
Kissed a boy under the Harrods Christmas lights
Been drunk on the tube (few times)
Got lost
Stonehenge
Visited Bath
Christmas in Scotland
Hogmany Scotland
Spontaneous trip to Croatia
ANZAC Day in Turkey
Ridden a camel in Egypt
Swam in the Nile
Been in a tomb
Kissed the Spinx
Watched a show in the West End (or 12)
Seen a gig (or 30)
Monopoly pub crawl
Gosh, there has to be more...

Things to do:
See a gig in Paris (soon, next week in fact)
Eat cheese and wine under the Eiffel Tower (and see other sights of Paris)
Krakow (Auschwitz)
Work at a festival
Sound of Music tour in Salzburg
Visit Amsterdam
Venice
Rome
Florence
Prague
See Spain
Oktoberfest
La Tomitina
Greek Islands
The Northern Lights
and much more, but with only 6 months left I will see how I go!

Nothing is impossible. The word itself says "I'm possible!"

Before this year, I'd never really given much thought to travelling to Egypt. The pyramids, while they sounded cool, didn't really excite me, and what else could you do in a desert?

Walking like an Egyptian!

I am glad that I have an open mind and listened to friends when they told me exactly how amazing a trip to Egypt would be!

It was an idea that was kind of thrown around the dinner table at Jade and Jayson's one night with Nic and myself. It was only when Jade said that Travel Talk had a two for one offer that I actually really considered it. I jumped online when I got home and saw that it was too cheap to pass up on, the most expensive part being the flights, even they were reasonably priced.. Who wants to visit a country in turmoil I guess.. The decision had been made, Nic and I were going to Egypt! This was either going to strengthen our friendship or end it.. Time would tell I guess.

Before the trip I had spoken to a number of friends who reinforced what others had said, that it would be a trip of a lifetime. They also kept mentioning a felucca, whatever that was...

The night before the trip it was decided that I'd sleep on Nic's couch as the night bus departed from just outside of there at 3am... Joy... About midnight I finally retired to the delightful pleather couch with a sleeping bag and tried to sleep.. At 2:00 I heard voices and someone stumbling with a key at the front door. It was ok though, it was just Nic's housemate on his way home from the pub, he knew I was here, it'd be ok, they'd go straight to his room and leave me sleep for another hour right?

...

Wrong.. Thanks Bel for the wake up call- he then dragged me off the couch and made me sleep on a mattress on his floor so some of his mates could have some "privacy" in the lounge.. Basically I was woken from my slumber so they could bang....

The journey there was pretty uneventful, stopped over in Vienna (? gargh can't even remember now) and then on to Cairo. First thing I noticed upon exiting the airport was the heat. Wow, something I hadn't experienced in so long! Sunglasses were required. We headed to the hotel with two girls off our flight who'd also be joining us on the tour. Was absolutely speechless when I first saw the pyramids in the distance.. The hotel was pretty incredible, massive pool, bars, green grass. Heaven.. The WiFi connection had a lot to be desired but that was ok too...

The first thing we did upon arrival was head over the road to the little old lady selling bottled water. This was an experience in itself.. Me being blonde, stood out like dog's balls, so we were heckled, bellowed at, tooted even before we left the hotel compound.. The traffic was pretty crazy.. They have road rules in Egypt like they do everywhere else, but the guide put it quite simply that these were only "suggestions". Any who, we made it back alive somehow and went to cool off in the pool. We had some group meeting that night, and I must say I was a little surprised at the penis/vagina ratio... Lots of girls...

The tour group!

 

The first real day of tour was Pyramid Day! We went first to the step pyramid built by King Zoser in 2700 B.C. Pretty bloody old if you ask me.. From here we went to The Great Pyramid of Giza- the largest and the oldest pyramid in the world. It is the oldest of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, and the only one to remain largely in tact. It is believed to have been build over a 10-20 year period finishing in around 2560BCE. It's original height of 146.5 meters made it the tallest man-made structure in the world for over 3800 years. I also learnt that with the stones used to build The Great Pyramid of Giza, a three metre wall could be built around France or a line which stretches two thirds of the way around the equator :) Pretty cool huh!

Happy Camel

After that we jumped on the bus and drove up the hill to panoramic hill for a few cliché photos before CAMEL RIDES!!! Yeeee Haaaa! I possible got stuck with the "most experienced" camel (meaning he was old as all hell) and I affectionately named him Jack. The experience of riding camels across the desert, with the pyramids in the distance was quite surreal, couldn't wipe the smile off my face! From here we visited the Sphinx- wowsers! I am not even going to begin to explain how unbelievably amazing it was, you have to see it to believe it.

At the end of this day I thought that was it, pinnacle of the trip, couldn't get any better than this. And again, am happy to admit I was wrong...

Spent the next few days wandering around tombs and temples and deserts and 5 star hotels and perfume shops and restaurants and beer. Which brings me to my next exciting stories...

An optional extra on the tour was a Nubian dinner- basically we went to a home of a Nubian family - They are the African Egyptians, for a meal or authentic Nubian food and entertainment. We jumped on a boat and sailed down the Nile. My new friend Rach and I has the best seats in the house, we were able to watch the sun set and enjoy a few quiet beers. The food was incredible, I got to hold a crocodile, apparently they keep them as pets, I think it was just a tourist ploy though to be honest, they weren't domesticated in any way, shape or form. It was the journey home that was epic. Most of us climbed to the top of the boat to enjoy the stars and the fresh night air. Captain Honeymoon came up to get us and we all went down and were greeted with Nubian entertainment. Loud drums, loud singing and lot of loud laughing. Possible a warm up for what the next few days had in store?

Rachel and I relaxing on top of the boat on the way to the Nubian dinner.. Best seats in the house.

 

The next day I was about to discover what the felucca was... I wasn't sure what to expect. Sailing down the Nile on a boat, with no motor, no kitchen, no toilets?

 

We were lucky, only 14 of the 24 people on our tour were doing Felucca, this meant we could all be on the same boat. I boarded the boat and claimed my spot on the mattressed floor, complete with mini mouse pillows and sheets. Before we set sail we enjoyed our first felucca prepared mill.. Falafels. Yum! If this feast was anything to go by, I was going to have a GREAT time regardless of the toilet situation! Within about half an hour of being on the boat the water was calling me, I had to get in! And I didn't even need to pee!!! So, in I jumped. Holy shit I was swimming in the Nile, who'd have thought that that would be something that I'd ever do?!? Not me, that's for sure!

 

After a few hours sailing we docked at our port for the night. The three boatmen went to work setting up our lavish bathroom facilities (basically they dug a hole, put a little chair over it with a toilet set and chucked a tent over it), started cooking our tea and all the while kept the boat of us entertained with an array of activities! Bedtime came, and without actually saying a word, people just found a spot and drifted off to sleep. On the first night we didn't have blankets, we just had a makeshift wall put around the boat (think hammock material). Slept well. We had a leisurely morning, an amazing breakfast of omelets, cheese, this amazing tomato and fetta stuff and chocky biscuits.. The Nubians certainly knew how to brew a decent cuppa!

Just hanging out in the River Nile

 

We set sail again and the day was very relaxing. We played cards, listened to music, swam, napped... It really was what dream are made of! We had a few docks throughout the day for toilet stops and lunch but our final stop was something else. The sun was setting over the palm trees in the background as we pulled up to a sandy patch of land. On one side was a bunch of locals playing a game of football, and to the other was farmland. Animals tethered (poor things) and farmers working the crops. It was here that I took a minute. I stopped, blocked out all of the sounds around me and appreciated me and what I was doing. Life really couldn't get much better than this.

Me taking some time out.

Tonight the crew joined us for a meal, apparently this doesn't happen often. Was something else. We had a bonfire and more Nubian music, fun and games.. As trees were scarce and it was dark, to go to the toilet you'd just wander a little way away from the group and drop your dacks... Really was something else. Slept really well that night and woke up the boat sailing and was lucky enough to watch the African sun rise over the River Nile.

 

It was sad to leave the boat. I made some truly wonderful friends that I can't wait to share more adventures with in the future. Today was one of the hottest days I have ever experienced. 47°... It was a dry heat, with not shade for respite. Today was the day we wandered around one of the largest, and probably spectacular temples in Egypt.. Due to the heat I can't remember much :/ The icy-poles were tasty though.

 

The coolest historic sight visited would have to have been the Abu Simbel Temples. Still don't know how they managed to move two temples 65 meters higher and 200meters away from the rising dam, but WOW! This sight, blew my mind!

Abu Simbel with the amazing Zizu!

 

The rest of the trip was a whirlwind of amazeballs.. Our tour guide Zizu was something else, really added to the experience! Much better than the disaster of Turkey! Egypt is probably the coolest places I have ever visited. Can't believe that I was sceptical. Recommend it to anyone and everyone who will listen!!

The tour group!

 

 

 

We toured a mosque.. These are the outfits that all women have to wear.. We looked lovely..

 

 

 

 

"Gallipoli was a bastard of a place," he said. "I never understood what we were fighting for. All I could think of was that I never wanted to go back to the bloody place."

 

This trip had its ups and downs. Spending ANZAC Day in Gallipoli is the second greatest experience I have ever had!

Me at ANZAC Cove

 

The first being the birth of my nephew. The range of emotions that I went through and am still feeling today, almost two weeks later, is phenomenal. Never have I felt more proud to be Australian. Having the opportunity to walk and sleep where many of our soldiers lost their lives, and walking in the footsteps of our Diggers was eerie. Standing in the trenches that they called home, some for up to nine months was an experience. The atmosphere of Anzac Day eve here is amazing. This is not a place to party- there are strict security measures in place to ensure that alcohol is not taken into the area. So if you think this is a new type of "Oktoberfest" you are wrong. Documentaries played through the night, which taught us of the goings on. There were tributes to the soldiers, we were told some of their stories. The way that the respect the ANZACS and Turks showed each other, amazing... After all, it wasn't Us VS Them, but more, Britain VS Germany and us in between. This is something I recommend all passionate Aussies and Kiwis do. I still struggle to find the words to fully describe it.

I have every intention to get back to that place, perhaps without the crowd to properly explore. Mum gave me some names to look out for, and the pride I felt when I saw my great uncle "Jack" Hancock of the tenth Battalion was immense. I still shake my head in awe of that place. The range of emotions that I went through is incomprehensible, even now I get chills. 

Sorry, don't know how to rotate this one!

As I said, most amazing experience EVER!!! My tour on the other hand, was a disaster!

 A cemetery I stopped at on the 3.1km walk to Lone Pine. The road was rough, and the hill was steep, not one word of complaint came out of anyone's mouth. Our soldiers did it much worse than we did.

 Watching the sunrise over ANZAC Cove with Amy.

 

.

 The Lone Pine at the Australian Memorial Site

No bastard ever won a war by dying for his country. He won it by making the other poor dumb bastard die for his country.
George S. Patton

 

 

 4AM selfie with Amy

 

 One of the underground trenches!

 Memorial at Lone Pine

 

They went with songs to the battle, they were young.

Straight of limb, true of eyes, steady and aglow.

They were staunch to the end against odds uncounted,

They fell with their faces to the foe.

They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old:

Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn.

At the going down of the sun and in the morning,

We will remember them

 The Tour- Was a disaster...
I selected and paid quite a bit of money for a 5 day tour. Day one consisted of waiting around the hotel until a team meeting at 8:30pm. The hotel was nice, but about 2 minutes out of the city centre, away from any form of night life, this was a shame. I did not receive any information about shuttles etc into the city. Something could have been done on this day as part of the tour, see my day 4 for an example. Day 2- we had an early departure for ANZAC Cove. I was excited as we had a Turkish guide. I prepared myself to learn a little about Turkish customs, their thoughts on the landings etc... But this wasn't to be. Within 30 minutes of our guide introducing himself to us, I learnt that his fiancé had left him 2 weeks prior to the tour- so he wasn't in a wonderful mood. I also learnt about how his fortune teller told him that she had a baby somewhere in here life- likely to have aborted... Way to much information, and way to negative to tell a tour group, over a microphone, on a bus... The bus air conditioner broke down and this was dealt with quickly and a new bus obtained. The DVD player on the new bus kept reverting the DVD about the Gallipoli Campaign to Turkish, therefore unwatchable for the Aussie audience. Instead of taking the opportunity for the tour guide to give us his own perspective, he told us of the malfunction and then sat down and didn't say a think til lunch. Lunch was good- a buffet at a beach side restaurant. Would have been nice to be able to eat some proper Turkish cuisine, but this was good. (said on the itinerary that this would be dinner, was eaten at 3, bit of ambiguous information). Didn't receive any other information about the type of food that we should take in, nor were we informed of the mass food poisoning outbreak that was suffered in 2012 due to the dodgy kebabs... Once we arrived at the Cove, we exited the bus and that was the last I saw of the tour guide for 24 hours.. Other tour guides stayed with their groups, made sure they were ok, checked up on them.. We had nothing. The information he gave us about the event was all fairly dicey, he didn't know many details, and the stuff he told us was always wrong.. There was no debrief on the way home. Nothing on the way home actually. Would have been nice to learn about Turkish customs, ceremonies, education ANYTHING!!! Got nothing. Bit of a joke really. What's the point of having a Turkish tour guide.. Day 4- Left the hotel at 7:45. As soon as we got on the bus the guide was his usually glass empty self telling us we had a lot to get through, was unlikely we'd get through it all blah blah.. In hindsight, he was probably right, so much to do, some of which could have been done on day 1. Also would have been nice to hear about some of the history of the city, I know it has much... Too much to hope for I am afraid. Boat cruise was ok, pretty boring, a lot of people on the one boat, and unless you were standing by the speakers you couldn't hear what they were saying. From there went to the Spice Markets and were taken into his mate's shop.. Prices much higher than other shops... Then we went to a palace, was ok, too many people, bit boring. from here we went to the Blue Mosque and waited in line for ages, most exciting think about this was getting in trouble for showing some leg. We then went to a museum and the underground cistern. The cistern was one of the coolest things I saw. But as his watch was 5 minutes fast, I nearly got left behind. A bit daunting for a young, blonde solo traveller in Istanbul :/ We then went to the mosaic thing, bit cool. Then finally the Grand Bizarre, which coincidently is right beside the Spice market.. Why not do these at the same time as opposed to opposite ends of the tour? He also couldn't recommend somewhere nice for lunch. I am thankful too that I didn't pay for the option Authentic Turkish Dinner for that evening, sounds like the people who paid the $99 USD for that were severely ripped off... And Day 5 was check out... Really dissatisfied with this tour. Please take my advice, don't risk On the Go. Travel Talk sound pretty amazing, even Fanatics.. I think I could have provided better tour for my group.. I will certainly not be recommending On the Go to any of my friends or family based on this tour, and I'd be very hesitant booking another tour with them. But thumbs up to them, they have been fantastic with the aftercare, would even consider going on another tour with them! Just not to ANZAC Cove.
 

Highlight of the tour (apart from Gallipoli), would definitely be hanging out with Lucas, Bel and Sam in Sultan! Thanks for looking out for me lads! The food was decadent! 

In Flanders Fields by Dr. John MacCrae

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
That mark our place; and in the sky
The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.
We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
Loved and were loved, and now we lie,
In Flanders fields.
Take up our quarrel with the foe:
To you from failing hands we throw
The torch; be yours to hold it high.
If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
In Flanders fields.

 

Sorry gang, writing this was emotionally draining. Watch this space for the next instalment which will be based on my Church escapades!!

 

But I will send a big shout out to all friends (old and new), family and everyone else who has or is serving on behalf of our country. I have much respect for you and what you are doing!

 

The real and lasting victories are those of peace, and not of war.
Ralph Waldo Emerson

When you want something in life, you just gotta reach out and grab it!

Wow look at me go! Not as long between posts! something is definitely up! Either I am bored or miss you or both! ( I am not bored but do miss you, so that must be it). I am currently trying to update photos, but my hard drive is full as is my computer :/ so bare (haha bare bum) with me.

Me, Naughty Nat, Amazing Amy, Kooky Kirsten, Kinky Kristy, Sexy Sam and Killer Kate celebrating Kink's birthday! xoxo

 

Me and Charlie dressed as pirates for out work's Boat PARTY!!!

Ahhh once again have been busy. Went back to work today after just over 2 weeks off. Spent a wonderful 5 days in Croatia (B-E-A-Utiful!) and the rest catching up with old friends, new friends and the ones in between.

It's funny, I have made so many wonderful friends over here, but they don't feel like new friends.. It feels like I have known them forever! And I know that I will definitely know them forever! ( xoxo)

CROATIA: So.. Getting off the plane in Croatia I felt so alive. Free. Invigorated, I was on my own, in a county where I had no idea of what they were saying and no wifi connection. I had organised a transfer from the airport in Zadar to my villa ( more about that later) with the lady of the villa that I'd been conversing with.. Anywho my flight got in at about 9:30pm (their time) and sure enough there is someone standing with my name on a sign. I walk over to the guy (massively tall, bulk, bald) and say hello. He then introduces me to his mate (see pre-mentioned build) and asked where the rest of my party was.. I then proceeded to tell them that it was only me (should have said I was meeting a my boyfriend the hurling world champion (:/) there.. They said something in Croatian which sounded like "let's see her organs" and led me to the car. It was a mini van, giggled a little...And off we went.

We drove for what felt like 2 miles before we turned off the main road onto a bumpy, dark, dirt track. This is where I thought "Oh poptarts, this is where they take me to their leader and I get sold to the sex trade"... We drove for ages, them talking their Croatian me palms sweating, trying to figure out where to hit these dudes and how fast I could fun and for how long.. Then all of a sudden...


We pulled up my villa, they carried my suitcase to my door, I paid them and they left...

 It was fairly dark and I had no idea what to expect of the room, I couldn't tell you how close I was to the beach, or shops or anything! What I can tell you though is that I paid €125 for five days, seemed to cheap to be anything amazing... Boy was I wrong... I mean the room was a little dated, and the sheets were a little thin. But it turned out that I was the only one at the villa for two days so I received a free upgrade to a 2 bedroom, beach front deluxe suite (woo hoo go me!!) Because one person needs two double beds and a fold out couch :D

View from my balcony from The Villa Nela! (Rhymes with Anna Bella)

 

When I woke I wandered out to the balcony and nearly fell off.. The view was absolutely sensational!! Could not wipe the smile off my face! That was until I remember that all I'd eaten the day before was a snickers and an OJ and that I was so hungry I could have eaten a low flying duck (*quack*- haha you know who that was for)... Explore time! I chucked on my summer dress and thongs, it was 17 after all, and  had just left London, the day after a snow storm! And headed in to town. Was off season, and there weren't many around but that was ok too. Had a great trip!

 

Marina- That's my boat on the left..

 The town of Petrcane

I've spent the last 7 weeks arguing with TicketMaster over my P!nk tickets that weren't delivered. Think I will just cut my losses there and suck it up. Will be in Turkey on the day of the concert so can't go.

The weather is FINALLY starting to warm up here! (By warm up I mean out highs are your lows- stop sooking about the weather by the way haha) so the singlets, thongs and beer drinking arms are coming out! It's bizarre, one sunny Sunday and 8 million people head to the river of the Thames to drink..

Harlem Globetrotter game was UNREAL! and Even scored a free jersey! Can't complain about that! Last few schools I have been at have been tricky, but I've had the kids for a few days and by the end they're well settled so that's ok too..

Ok, bed time, work tomorrow.. Woo...

Big HI to Lisa and Snow! and Hayley, Jenna, Rach and Nick at the Domain, also to Mum for breaking into my room to get my Bomber's jumper, and to Gravox for letting her! Hi to Jack, Jacqueline and Bray- youse (I speak English good) rock. Happy Birthday for tomorrow Nic. Dad, I'll talk to you in about 6 minutes on Skype. Nanny, who's probably too busy gallivanting. Kaye and Gordo for being completely awesome. Steve, Willy, Libby, Peevie, Loz and this is getting silly.. Love to you all.

Yours for a fiver

Anna
xoxo

Oh, one more quote


If you love life, life will love you back!

Bubye