28-1-2010 (Sunday)
Yesterday night we found about this tsunami warning on Australia’s coast due to the earthquake in Chili. We thought of leaving for one night but decided to wake up at 6, to see if the warning status has increased. Our apartment is really on the beach.
Ruben woke up at 6 and woke up the rest as well at 7. We went out for breakfast away from the coast. We think we were the only ones in Australia to take it that serious.
After breakfast we decided to go to Australia zoo today. Australia zoo is the zoo that belongs to Steve Irwin, the crocodile hunter, who passé away some time ago due to a ray arrow hitting his heart. It’s a 50 minute drive from Noosa.
Off course they have a lot of crocodiles over there. Our nicest encounters were: feeding elephants, feeding kangaroos (again), padding a snake, pony ride by Zeb and Sharai, and a magnificent demonstration with tigers.
For us watching the kids on the ponies was the best, even Sharai with her only 2 years rode like if she is used to ride.
The zoo like most of the parks we went to are over commercialized. But we had a priceless day.
Back in Noosa we had Patti again to babysit. The kids are very much at ease with her. Sharon and Ruben had a fantastic dinner next doors at an Italian restaurant called Lindonis (www.lindonis.com.au). The food and service were impeccable. Back ‘home’ Ruben watched some cricket.
zondag 28 februari 2010
zaterdag 27 februari 2010
New friends in Noosa
25-2-2010 (Thursday)
Relax days in Noosa. Most of the morning we stayed in the pool. The others were also in the pool, we had a enjoyable morning. Sharai was kissing with Dean again!!. And she calls him “Jommetjes” Boy in dutch (=jongetje). She tells Sharon that she likes to give a kiss to the jommetje…. Very sweet; we make fun about it all the time.
Sharon went to a top spa in the afternoon. Ruben and the kids went out for ice cream.
We called and skyped Hester for her birthday today. Dinner in and a couple of movies for the evening. Shrek for the kids and Angels and Demons for us.
26-2-2010 (Friday)
Another relaxed day in Noosa. We planned a bbq tonight together with George/Simone and Marc/Ilde and off course our kids.
After our morning swim, Ruben did some groceries for the BBQ and Sharon stayed in with Sharai sleeping and Zeb relaxing.
BBQ was really nice, George bbqed and took care of the meat. We had meat for the whole apartment building. The food and the company were great. The kids were great together; watched some movies (Shrek, Madagascar ect) and played. Not one little fight; they’ve all been sweet.
To bad they are all leaving tomorrow.
27-2-2010 (Saturday)
Our friends from Sydney and Melbourne left today, too bad. They left us a lot of left overs, so we have a loaded fridge for the next month ;-).
Most of the day we took easy, swim, stroll on Hastings street and for Sharai a afternoon swim.
Tonight we went to a Purim party of the Jewish Community of Sunshine coast. We found out they only exist officially for 2 years. We got their contact details through the Brisbane KH office.
Zeb was dressed up as a Brazilian soccer player and Sharai as Princess Fiona (shrek character) in black and she was dressed like her mommy.
The part was in Maroochy a 40 minute drive from here and it was pouring rain. Ruben did a great job driving the family, cause once we said already: when it rains….it really, really rains and we were driving a 2 lanes road; It was damned scary.
We met a Dutch guy, Paul Hymans, he is originally from The Hague, he is married to an Israeli woman. We also met a Dutch girl the chairman Gary Meyer and some other nice people.
We think there were around 100 people, everybody brought food and drinks (we took chickens and drinks).
They prepared a play, told the story of the Megilla and had a dress up competition. The kids loved the cookies and cakes.
Relax days in Noosa. Most of the morning we stayed in the pool. The others were also in the pool, we had a enjoyable morning. Sharai was kissing with Dean again!!. And she calls him “Jommetjes” Boy in dutch (=jongetje). She tells Sharon that she likes to give a kiss to the jommetje…. Very sweet; we make fun about it all the time.
Sharon went to a top spa in the afternoon. Ruben and the kids went out for ice cream.
We called and skyped Hester for her birthday today. Dinner in and a couple of movies for the evening. Shrek for the kids and Angels and Demons for us.
26-2-2010 (Friday)
Another relaxed day in Noosa. We planned a bbq tonight together with George/Simone and Marc/Ilde and off course our kids.
After our morning swim, Ruben did some groceries for the BBQ and Sharon stayed in with Sharai sleeping and Zeb relaxing.
BBQ was really nice, George bbqed and took care of the meat. We had meat for the whole apartment building. The food and the company were great. The kids were great together; watched some movies (Shrek, Madagascar ect) and played. Not one little fight; they’ve all been sweet.
To bad they are all leaving tomorrow.
27-2-2010 (Saturday)
Our friends from Sydney and Melbourne left today, too bad. They left us a lot of left overs, so we have a loaded fridge for the next month ;-).
Most of the day we took easy, swim, stroll on Hastings street and for Sharai a afternoon swim.
Tonight we went to a Purim party of the Jewish Community of Sunshine coast. We found out they only exist officially for 2 years. We got their contact details through the Brisbane KH office.
Zeb was dressed up as a Brazilian soccer player and Sharai as Princess Fiona (shrek character) in black and she was dressed like her mommy.
The part was in Maroochy a 40 minute drive from here and it was pouring rain. Ruben did a great job driving the family, cause once we said already: when it rains….it really, really rains and we were driving a 2 lanes road; It was damned scary.
We met a Dutch guy, Paul Hymans, he is originally from The Hague, he is married to an Israeli woman. We also met a Dutch girl the chairman Gary Meyer and some other nice people.
We think there were around 100 people, everybody brought food and drinks (we took chickens and drinks).
They prepared a play, told the story of the Megilla and had a dress up competition. The kids loved the cookies and cakes.
woensdag 24 februari 2010
First days in Noosa
23-1-2010 (Tuesday)
First full day in Noosa. We went to the swimming pool in the morning and walked around town in the afternoon before getting back to the swimming pool.
Walking around town you see how beautiful it is.
At the pool we met a couple from Melbourne, George and Simone with a 2 year old son and a couple from Sydney, Marc and Ilde also with a 2 year old son.
We had dinner in and Sharon watched a movie and Ruben checked out some accommodations for the next part of our trip.
24-1-2010 (Wednesday)
Pancakes for breakfast. After breakfast we went to the old timber town of Eumundi. Every Wednesday and Friday they have a big market with arts and crafts. We bought some stuff and had lunch.
Driving back to Noosa the kids slept and we took the time to check out some day spa’s for Sharon. She choose to go to ikatan spa (www.ikatanspa.com), she has an appointment for a 3 hour treatment tomorrow. Must be an experience!!
We also checked out the Japanese restaurant we will have dinner tonight with only the two of us, we will have a babysit.
In the afternoon it started pouring rain but it was still 30c, so we went ‘swimming in the rain’ together with our ‘friends’ from Melbourne and Sydney. Sharai started kissing with Dean the 2 year old from Melbourne, pretty funny and sweet.
We made some dinner for the kids. Through a babysit agency run by a lady called Elizabeth Taylor we booked a babysit.
We prepared the kids already earlier today about the babysit and bought a little present for them, a car’s watch for Zeb and a hair band for Sharai both at Eumunid market. Pretty exciting to have a babysit for the first time in 2 months and here in Australia.
At 7:30 the babysit came, Patty a 60+ year old women, who made this kids (and us) feel comfortable instantly (relief). We had a fantastic dinner in the Japanese place called Wasabi, it’s chef is a well known chef in Australia.
In the restaurant we met a Dutch couple (55+ years old), Willem and Marja. They invited us for drinks after dinner in their apartment. So after dinner we went over there.
Finally we arrived back at the apartment at 11:30.
First full day in Noosa. We went to the swimming pool in the morning and walked around town in the afternoon before getting back to the swimming pool.
Walking around town you see how beautiful it is.
At the pool we met a couple from Melbourne, George and Simone with a 2 year old son and a couple from Sydney, Marc and Ilde also with a 2 year old son.
We had dinner in and Sharon watched a movie and Ruben checked out some accommodations for the next part of our trip.
24-1-2010 (Wednesday)
Pancakes for breakfast. After breakfast we went to the old timber town of Eumundi. Every Wednesday and Friday they have a big market with arts and crafts. We bought some stuff and had lunch.
Driving back to Noosa the kids slept and we took the time to check out some day spa’s for Sharon. She choose to go to ikatan spa (www.ikatanspa.com), she has an appointment for a 3 hour treatment tomorrow. Must be an experience!!
We also checked out the Japanese restaurant we will have dinner tonight with only the two of us, we will have a babysit.
In the afternoon it started pouring rain but it was still 30c, so we went ‘swimming in the rain’ together with our ‘friends’ from Melbourne and Sydney. Sharai started kissing with Dean the 2 year old from Melbourne, pretty funny and sweet.
We made some dinner for the kids. Through a babysit agency run by a lady called Elizabeth Taylor we booked a babysit.
We prepared the kids already earlier today about the babysit and bought a little present for them, a car’s watch for Zeb and a hair band for Sharai both at Eumunid market. Pretty exciting to have a babysit for the first time in 2 months and here in Australia.
At 7:30 the babysit came, Patty a 60+ year old women, who made this kids (and us) feel comfortable instantly (relief). We had a fantastic dinner in the Japanese place called Wasabi, it’s chef is a well known chef in Australia.
In the restaurant we met a Dutch couple (55+ years old), Willem and Marja. They invited us for drinks after dinner in their apartment. So after dinner we went over there.
Finally we arrived back at the apartment at 11:30.
maandag 22 februari 2010
From Moreton Island to Noosa Heads
22-1-2010 (Monday)
Woke up at 7 to get the luggage and all ready for the early departure from the island today. Our boat left at 9, a small, speedy catamaran this time.
We were back on the mainland at around 10:30 and set for Noosa Heads a 1,5 hour drive up north. We made one stop to refill our water supply and a Krispy Kreme donut.
We arrived in our serviced apartment around 12:30. It’s called Maison Noosa and is on Hastings Street and the Beach. We have a great ocean view from our balcony. This will be home for 10 days, we will survive here ;).
We have a 2 bedroom apartment with all usual amenities.
After lunch we walked along the shops of Hastings Street. Back at the apartment the kids watched a DVD and Sharon went back to the shops.
We went for a ride to do groceries shopping in the supermarket and then did a tour of Noosa Heads and Noosaville. We had homemade dinner on the balcony. After dinner Sharon and Zeb went for a swim in the pool.
Watched some Olympic games, they show almost every sport here on TV except speed skating off course. So we missed all the Dutch gold medals. But we are also happy for the Australians for there gold’s.
Woke up at 7 to get the luggage and all ready for the early departure from the island today. Our boat left at 9, a small, speedy catamaran this time.
We were back on the mainland at around 10:30 and set for Noosa Heads a 1,5 hour drive up north. We made one stop to refill our water supply and a Krispy Kreme donut.
We arrived in our serviced apartment around 12:30. It’s called Maison Noosa and is on Hastings Street and the Beach. We have a great ocean view from our balcony. This will be home for 10 days, we will survive here ;).
We have a 2 bedroom apartment with all usual amenities.
After lunch we walked along the shops of Hastings Street. Back at the apartment the kids watched a DVD and Sharon went back to the shops.
We went for a ride to do groceries shopping in the supermarket and then did a tour of Noosa Heads and Noosaville. We had homemade dinner on the balcony. After dinner Sharon and Zeb went for a swim in the pool.
Watched some Olympic games, they show almost every sport here on TV except speed skating off course. So we missed all the Dutch gold medals. But we are also happy for the Australians for there gold’s.
Wild dolphins on Moreton Island
21-2-2010 (Sunday)
We woke up early, except for Sharai. Zeb watched the end of Beemovie (without audio),Ruben had a walk on the beach and Sharon skyped on the balcony.
We got some milk and cereals from the convenient store and had a little picnic at the little playground.
We arranged a motorboat with a small sunroof from 12 till 2 pm and had a picnic on the water. We bought our stuff on the island and it’s really a rip off. Everything is double priced, but our lunch was great.
We headed for the wrecks in the sea, where many people were snorkeling. But ended at the shore, cause we had some problems with our anker. Sharon went snorkeling and 3 meters from the shore she saw an enormous stingray. So she headed to the boat again and was surprised by her swimming scales; this fast.
We really enjoyed our little boat-picknick-trip, but had some difficulty starting the motor again. Some huge aussiemen helped us out. Zeb took the wheel and the kids enjoyed.
Sharai did a nappy in the room and Sharon did some mailing and stuff on the balcony. Ruben and Zeb arranged our meet and greet with the dolphins for tonight and had a swim together.
At the end we were all in the room, made ourselves ready for an early dinner.
During diner we already saw some dolphins near the shore, saw the sunset and went to the jetty. This island is beautiful, as in “Couples retreat” (movie we saw in Surfers Paridise).
We were the first off all people waiting to meet the dolphins. Sharai on Sharon’s arm and Ruben held Zeb. We had 3 minutes; 6 fishes to feed and we all got the chance to hand feed the little dolphin. We stood in the water with the four of us and it was really special. 9 dolphins swimming around us in the crystal clear shallow water. Afterwards we went to our room, had a shower and relaxed. Tomorrow at 7;30 am we have to make sure all the luggage is ready for to be picked up….
Again an unforgettable, nice day
We woke up early, except for Sharai. Zeb watched the end of Beemovie (without audio),Ruben had a walk on the beach and Sharon skyped on the balcony.
We got some milk and cereals from the convenient store and had a little picnic at the little playground.
We arranged a motorboat with a small sunroof from 12 till 2 pm and had a picnic on the water. We bought our stuff on the island and it’s really a rip off. Everything is double priced, but our lunch was great.
We headed for the wrecks in the sea, where many people were snorkeling. But ended at the shore, cause we had some problems with our anker. Sharon went snorkeling and 3 meters from the shore she saw an enormous stingray. So she headed to the boat again and was surprised by her swimming scales; this fast.
We really enjoyed our little boat-picknick-trip, but had some difficulty starting the motor again. Some huge aussiemen helped us out. Zeb took the wheel and the kids enjoyed.
Sharai did a nappy in the room and Sharon did some mailing and stuff on the balcony. Ruben and Zeb arranged our meet and greet with the dolphins for tonight and had a swim together.
At the end we were all in the room, made ourselves ready for an early dinner.
During diner we already saw some dolphins near the shore, saw the sunset and went to the jetty. This island is beautiful, as in “Couples retreat” (movie we saw in Surfers Paridise).
We were the first off all people waiting to meet the dolphins. Sharai on Sharon’s arm and Ruben held Zeb. We had 3 minutes; 6 fishes to feed and we all got the chance to hand feed the little dolphin. We stood in the water with the four of us and it was really special. 9 dolphins swimming around us in the crystal clear shallow water. Afterwards we went to our room, had a shower and relaxed. Tomorrow at 7;30 am we have to make sure all the luggage is ready for to be picked up….
Again an unforgettable, nice day
zaterdag 20 februari 2010
Moreton Island (Tangalooma resort)
20-2-2010 (Saturday)
Woke up in our spacious apartment and went out for breakfast. We had breakfast in a nice place on the corner of Queen street and George street. Going out for breakfast is a real treat here, nice hot stuff like pancakes, French toast and eggs. For us French toast with maple syrup works just fine.
We checked out at 11 and drove to Pinkeba, a Brisbane suburb from where the boat to the Tangalooma resort (www.tangalooma.com) on Moreton Island leaves. We checked in our luggage and went on the boat. Felt little like our trips to Schiermonnikoog.
The boat trip was fun, it took 75 minutes on a speedy catamaran. First part is still on the Brisbane river and the bigger part of the trip on open sea, the sea was rough sometimes. On the boat we saw the Australian snowboarder Torah Bright getting her golden medal. Her golden run is big news here. They seem pretty laidback the Aussies but are pretty competitive if it comes to almost everything. For example lot’s of advertising mentions Australian owned or Australian made and the restaurants all have won awards. Very much American.
The island is the third largest sand island in the world, the biggest is Fraser island. Fraser island is more north on the Queensland. Maybe we will go there as well.
The island and resort are beautiful and peaceful. Just like on the Gold Coast only a lot of Asian tourist.
The resort is on the beach. After lunch we played in the very calm sea and finished off with a dip in the pool.
We had dinner on the beach. After dinner we walked to the Jetty were Dolphins were being fed. We will be doing that tomorrow night. Walking back from the jetty we stopped at the bar for Karaoke, Sharon and the kids performed together. After their performance, Sharai stayed on the stage to dance with the next couple of singers.
The movie for tonight is Bee Movie. Ruben went to sit on the balcony with his laptop.
Woke up in our spacious apartment and went out for breakfast. We had breakfast in a nice place on the corner of Queen street and George street. Going out for breakfast is a real treat here, nice hot stuff like pancakes, French toast and eggs. For us French toast with maple syrup works just fine.
We checked out at 11 and drove to Pinkeba, a Brisbane suburb from where the boat to the Tangalooma resort (www.tangalooma.com) on Moreton Island leaves. We checked in our luggage and went on the boat. Felt little like our trips to Schiermonnikoog.
The boat trip was fun, it took 75 minutes on a speedy catamaran. First part is still on the Brisbane river and the bigger part of the trip on open sea, the sea was rough sometimes. On the boat we saw the Australian snowboarder Torah Bright getting her golden medal. Her golden run is big news here. They seem pretty laidback the Aussies but are pretty competitive if it comes to almost everything. For example lot’s of advertising mentions Australian owned or Australian made and the restaurants all have won awards. Very much American.
The island is the third largest sand island in the world, the biggest is Fraser island. Fraser island is more north on the Queensland. Maybe we will go there as well.
The island and resort are beautiful and peaceful. Just like on the Gold Coast only a lot of Asian tourist.
The resort is on the beach. After lunch we played in the very calm sea and finished off with a dip in the pool.
We had dinner on the beach. After dinner we walked to the Jetty were Dolphins were being fed. We will be doing that tomorrow night. Walking back from the jetty we stopped at the bar for Karaoke, Sharon and the kids performed together. After their performance, Sharai stayed on the stage to dance with the next couple of singers.
The movie for tonight is Bee Movie. Ruben went to sit on the balcony with his laptop.
vrijdag 19 februari 2010
Last campervan days and Brisbane
17-2-2010 (Wednesday)
Pancakes for breakfast, The kids played with some other kids from Melbourne, Luca and Gabriel, in the playground.
We did not much today. Sharon and Zeb even rented a movie during the day while Sharai and Ruben slept.
At the end of the afternoon we went to a very nice street, Tedder Avenue, very close by. A lot of nice upscale restaurants. We had a nice dinner and afterwards a Baskin Robbins ice cream.
Tomorrow last day in the campervan.
18-2-2010 (Thursday)
Relax morning, is usual Zeb and Ruben went out to get coffee (Two cappuccino with skimmed milk and extra trot).
Off course we checked out the playground next to the beach after which we spent some time a the beach. Heavy current today, but great to swim in and dive in the waves. A lot of kite surfing going on here.
Lunch at the van. We took a walk to have Sharai sleep, but she never slept this afternoon. Ruben had his beard shaved off.
We rented Fiddler on the Roof to watch tonight after we packed. We have to pack because we have to return the campervan tomorrow in Brisbane.
We had dinner in Lemongrass Thai on Tedder Avenue, was recommended by the footprint travel guide we used before for dinner recommendation. Really good food, the place was packed.
19-2-2010 (Friday)
Bringing back the campervan today. We left Gold Coast around 9:30, our first stop was the hotel/apartment where we will stay tonight, Oaks Casino Tower in Brisbane CBD. We just delivered our luggage there, then of to Budget rent a car alos in Brisbane CBD to get our rental for the next month.
We got an Toyota rav4, nice spacious car.
Sharon drove the Toyota following the rest of the family in the van towards the KEA campervan depot. We left there around 1. It was a efficient morning.
For lunch we went to the Southbank of the Brisbane river. A real nice area with an artificial beach, swimming pool and lots of restaurants. The kids played in the park and the playground.
Around 4 we checked in at the apartment, a beautiful two room apartment overseeing the river from the 18th floor. What a space after a month in a campervan.
This serviced apartment concept is big in Australia and is really great if you travel like us. The rates are affordable if you compare with a 5 star hotel and the room/apartment space is much better.
When went for a walk through the shopping area, Queen street mall and got some real good take out. We needed to have dinner on our balcony with a view and also after such a day it’s better to eat with the kids in instead of in a restaurant.
Brisbane is a city with a good vibe.
Pancakes for breakfast, The kids played with some other kids from Melbourne, Luca and Gabriel, in the playground.
We did not much today. Sharon and Zeb even rented a movie during the day while Sharai and Ruben slept.
At the end of the afternoon we went to a very nice street, Tedder Avenue, very close by. A lot of nice upscale restaurants. We had a nice dinner and afterwards a Baskin Robbins ice cream.
Tomorrow last day in the campervan.
18-2-2010 (Thursday)
Relax morning, is usual Zeb and Ruben went out to get coffee (Two cappuccino with skimmed milk and extra trot).
Off course we checked out the playground next to the beach after which we spent some time a the beach. Heavy current today, but great to swim in and dive in the waves. A lot of kite surfing going on here.
Lunch at the van. We took a walk to have Sharai sleep, but she never slept this afternoon. Ruben had his beard shaved off.
We rented Fiddler on the Roof to watch tonight after we packed. We have to pack because we have to return the campervan tomorrow in Brisbane.
We had dinner in Lemongrass Thai on Tedder Avenue, was recommended by the footprint travel guide we used before for dinner recommendation. Really good food, the place was packed.
19-2-2010 (Friday)
Bringing back the campervan today. We left Gold Coast around 9:30, our first stop was the hotel/apartment where we will stay tonight, Oaks Casino Tower in Brisbane CBD. We just delivered our luggage there, then of to Budget rent a car alos in Brisbane CBD to get our rental for the next month.
We got an Toyota rav4, nice spacious car.
Sharon drove the Toyota following the rest of the family in the van towards the KEA campervan depot. We left there around 1. It was a efficient morning.
For lunch we went to the Southbank of the Brisbane river. A real nice area with an artificial beach, swimming pool and lots of restaurants. The kids played in the park and the playground.
Around 4 we checked in at the apartment, a beautiful two room apartment overseeing the river from the 18th floor. What a space after a month in a campervan.
This serviced apartment concept is big in Australia and is really great if you travel like us. The rates are affordable if you compare with a 5 star hotel and the room/apartment space is much better.
When went for a walk through the shopping area, Queen street mall and got some real good take out. We needed to have dinner on our balcony with a view and also after such a day it’s better to eat with the kids in instead of in a restaurant.
Brisbane is a city with a good vibe.
dinsdag 16 februari 2010
Movieworld
16-1-2010 (Tuesday)
Heavy rain during the night. Zeb woke up early but Sharai slept in. At around 9:30 we drove up to Movieworld; a 15 minute drive.
At Movieworld we started at the Shrek 4D show. This was really good, maybe a little scary for the kids. 4d means when one of characters sneezes, you feel water drops . After this show we rushed to the Looney Tunes Musical with Bugs Bunny and Tweetie. Sharai was standing, dancing and singing along in front of the stage and danced with the characters. Zeb watched everything with open mouth, everything is so real for him.
Then it started raining like heaven was coming down. We stayed most of the time in covered Main street. The kids had their picture taken with Batman, Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny , Tweetie and Shrek. Sharai calls Shrek “Fuck”.
Zeb can get really shy with all the characters.
The kids could choose a present, Sharai got Princes Fiona ears (from the Shrek movie and Zeb wanted a Superman wallet). With Zeb it’s funny he could choose anything he wanted and all he choose was this lousy wallet.
If you look at the negative side, you buy a ticket for a shopping mall. It’s as if you are going to a big department store in town but before you enter you have to pay $ 50,-.
But the park was ok, due to the weather we did only enjoy it only partly. And the kids had a great day again.
For dinner we had also a special day today, for the first and last time in the van when we cooked ourselves we did not bbq. But we had a special Pasta a la Ruben. We all enjoyed. Ruben and the kids went to play on the playground (all campsites have perfect playground) and Sharon did the dishes and turned the van from day to night. Every night we hire a movie and for tonight it’s “Funny People”. Tomorrow is a big day… Ruben will see the hairdresser, not for his coupe… but the beard will remain in Surfers…..
Heavy rain during the night. Zeb woke up early but Sharai slept in. At around 9:30 we drove up to Movieworld; a 15 minute drive.
At Movieworld we started at the Shrek 4D show. This was really good, maybe a little scary for the kids. 4d means when one of characters sneezes, you feel water drops . After this show we rushed to the Looney Tunes Musical with Bugs Bunny and Tweetie. Sharai was standing, dancing and singing along in front of the stage and danced with the characters. Zeb watched everything with open mouth, everything is so real for him.
Then it started raining like heaven was coming down. We stayed most of the time in covered Main street. The kids had their picture taken with Batman, Daffy Duck, Bugs Bunny , Tweetie and Shrek. Sharai calls Shrek “Fuck”.
Zeb can get really shy with all the characters.
The kids could choose a present, Sharai got Princes Fiona ears (from the Shrek movie and Zeb wanted a Superman wallet). With Zeb it’s funny he could choose anything he wanted and all he choose was this lousy wallet.
If you look at the negative side, you buy a ticket for a shopping mall. It’s as if you are going to a big department store in town but before you enter you have to pay $ 50,-.
But the park was ok, due to the weather we did only enjoy it only partly. And the kids had a great day again.
For dinner we had also a special day today, for the first and last time in the van when we cooked ourselves we did not bbq. But we had a special Pasta a la Ruben. We all enjoyed. Ruben and the kids went to play on the playground (all campsites have perfect playground) and Sharon did the dishes and turned the van from day to night. Every night we hire a movie and for tonight it’s “Funny People”. Tomorrow is a big day… Ruben will see the hairdresser, not for his coupe… but the beard will remain in Surfers…..
maandag 15 februari 2010
Seaworld part II
15-1-2010 (Monday)
Lazy morning. We watched a movie we rented but not see last night because we all fell asleep early.
We packed the van for a drive because we had to do some shopping. We went to shopping mall Australia Fair a 5 minute drive and did we hope our last grocery shopping in the van, we are returning it in 3 days.
In the afternoon we went back to SeaWorld, for a extra $ 5,- we also got access to the Seaworld resort water park. We had a nice afternoon, Zeb took the huge super waterslides by his own and Ruben and Sharon went down a slide on a tube.
But before we went to the water park we walked past the polar bear, that we missed yesterday.
The water park is halfway Seaworld, when we walked back through Seaworld we did some of the rides. Zeb en Sharon took the scary water/train ride again and both loved it. Zeb is really growing up and becoming a big boy. Sometimes we forget he is still young as a matter of fact, cause he is the oldest. The nice thing was that we did not have to stand in line at the end of the day, actually we were the only ones there, so we were the only ones taking the rides. We got everything out of our Seaworld/Movieworld pass already and we did not yet go to Movieworld!!
Expected thunder storms for today did not arrive, we had a hot day again. Good steak on the Barbie and a movie again.
Lazy morning. We watched a movie we rented but not see last night because we all fell asleep early.
We packed the van for a drive because we had to do some shopping. We went to shopping mall Australia Fair a 5 minute drive and did we hope our last grocery shopping in the van, we are returning it in 3 days.
In the afternoon we went back to SeaWorld, for a extra $ 5,- we also got access to the Seaworld resort water park. We had a nice afternoon, Zeb took the huge super waterslides by his own and Ruben and Sharon went down a slide on a tube.
But before we went to the water park we walked past the polar bear, that we missed yesterday.
The water park is halfway Seaworld, when we walked back through Seaworld we did some of the rides. Zeb en Sharon took the scary water/train ride again and both loved it. Zeb is really growing up and becoming a big boy. Sometimes we forget he is still young as a matter of fact, cause he is the oldest. The nice thing was that we did not have to stand in line at the end of the day, actually we were the only ones there, so we were the only ones taking the rides. We got everything out of our Seaworld/Movieworld pass already and we did not yet go to Movieworld!!
Expected thunder storms for today did not arrive, we had a hot day again. Good steak on the Barbie and a movie again.
zondag 14 februari 2010
Seaworld
14-1-2010 (Sunday)
Today Seaworld day. We bought a pass for unlimited access to Seaworld and Moviewolrd. Later this week we will go to Movieworld.
We walked to Seaworld, a 20 minute walk. We arrived around 10:20 and kicked off with a Sesame Street show, which the kids loved off course. Sharai was dancing and Zeb clapping his hands. We were only thinking that must be hot to wear big birds suit. It was around 35 today.
After Sesame Street we rushed to the Dolphin show, that was spectacular. After the show we sat down at a Dolphin pool for drinks and fruit.
At 12:30 we went to a big pirate show, Zeb loved it. After the show the kids took a picture with the pirates.
We had lunch in the tavern next to all the kids activities. Sharon took the kids in a ‘helicopter’ ride. They played in the water and Zeb went in to a Big Bird ( Pino) ride that moved up and down.
When we walked around the park Sharai fell asleep and we went to see the Sharks and a lot of other fishes.
Zeb and Ruben went in a very scary ride in a train that run through water and goes from a very steep slide. We have great pictures of that.
We left at around 4 and walked to the Mirage Marine. S and S went shopping and Z and R went to a waterfront bar that showed the cricket and had live music.
After we met up again we had waterfront dinner at a classy place called Glass, we were not really dressed for it after a day in Seaworld. Most people were really dressed up, also because it’s Valentine’s day. It was a funny sight us in this restaurant.
The food was really good, all 4 of us ate well.
Back at the site the kids finished up the day with an ice cream and Barbapapa on dvd.
Today Seaworld day. We bought a pass for unlimited access to Seaworld and Moviewolrd. Later this week we will go to Movieworld.
We walked to Seaworld, a 20 minute walk. We arrived around 10:20 and kicked off with a Sesame Street show, which the kids loved off course. Sharai was dancing and Zeb clapping his hands. We were only thinking that must be hot to wear big birds suit. It was around 35 today.
After Sesame Street we rushed to the Dolphin show, that was spectacular. After the show we sat down at a Dolphin pool for drinks and fruit.
At 12:30 we went to a big pirate show, Zeb loved it. After the show the kids took a picture with the pirates.
We had lunch in the tavern next to all the kids activities. Sharon took the kids in a ‘helicopter’ ride. They played in the water and Zeb went in to a Big Bird ( Pino) ride that moved up and down.
When we walked around the park Sharai fell asleep and we went to see the Sharks and a lot of other fishes.
Zeb and Ruben went in a very scary ride in a train that run through water and goes from a very steep slide. We have great pictures of that.
We left at around 4 and walked to the Mirage Marine. S and S went shopping and Z and R went to a waterfront bar that showed the cricket and had live music.
After we met up again we had waterfront dinner at a classy place called Glass, we were not really dressed for it after a day in Seaworld. Most people were really dressed up, also because it’s Valentine’s day. It was a funny sight us in this restaurant.
The food was really good, all 4 of us ate well.
Back at the site the kids finished up the day with an ice cream and Barbapapa on dvd.
zaterdag 13 februari 2010
Surfers Paradise
13-1-2010 (Saturday)
Our 2nd day at the Gold Coast. The Gold Coast is just Queensland, we came from New South Wales. Today we found out that NSW has one hour time difference with the rest of Australia. Ruben was searching for coffee at 6 this morning instead of 7. With hindsight, what a number of surfers already in the water that early!
But it meant that the whole family was rise and shine very early, after breakfast we went to the beach. A real hot day today. They take the lifeguard thing very serious everywhere, but especially here. The sea has very strong currents and today the red flag is out, meaning be careful. You always have to swim between the flags.
We rented a real body board today, it was really great fun.
Around noon we went back to the van, the kids slept for a couple of hours in the air-conditioning, Sharon watched a movie and Ruben did some payments through the internet.
After the kids woke up they played with their new friends from the caravan park for a while and then we walked along the coast to Surfers Paradise, a 40 minute walk.
Surfers is a really tacky place, shops, shops, shops and restaurants, good to have been there but not to come back. Main Beach is better for us.
We had dinner at a Thai restaurant, ice cream at Baskin Robin’s and walked back to the campsite.
Tomorrow Sea World.
Our 2nd day at the Gold Coast. The Gold Coast is just Queensland, we came from New South Wales. Today we found out that NSW has one hour time difference with the rest of Australia. Ruben was searching for coffee at 6 this morning instead of 7. With hindsight, what a number of surfers already in the water that early!
But it meant that the whole family was rise and shine very early, after breakfast we went to the beach. A real hot day today. They take the lifeguard thing very serious everywhere, but especially here. The sea has very strong currents and today the red flag is out, meaning be careful. You always have to swim between the flags.
We rented a real body board today, it was really great fun.
Around noon we went back to the van, the kids slept for a couple of hours in the air-conditioning, Sharon watched a movie and Ruben did some payments through the internet.
After the kids woke up they played with their new friends from the caravan park for a while and then we walked along the coast to Surfers Paradise, a 40 minute walk.
Surfers is a really tacky place, shops, shops, shops and restaurants, good to have been there but not to come back. Main Beach is better for us.
We had dinner at a Thai restaurant, ice cream at Baskin Robin’s and walked back to the campsite.
Tomorrow Sea World.
vrijdag 12 februari 2010
From Byron Bay via Hastings Point to the Gold Coast
11-1-2010 (Thursday)
We checked our early from the caravan park and parked our van on the public parking on main beach.
The sun was shining (like most of the time) and we had a wonderful morning at the beach. The beach at Byron Bay is really good.
At noon we had lunch, we set up our chairs at the front of our van overlooking the beach and ocean. Was great and felt really how camping should be: free!
We drove up to Cape Byron, the far east point of Australia. A headland next to the ton of Byron Bay. The cape has a lighthouse with a magnificent view. Things like this we do as Japanes or Americans do Europe in two weeks. One of us gets out of the car makes pictures and of we go. It’s no way we offload the kids have a look or walk and load again.
We did some shopping in Byron Bay and set off to Hastings Point, only a 30 minute drive. At Hastingspoint we arrived at North Star Holiday Resort, a 5 star caravan park. We have an ensuite here as well. We checked the swimming pool, also Sharai went down the waterslides.
She develops so fast.
The interesting thing about the caravan parks is that they also have permanent residents in cabins mostly retirees that moved to a coastal park. The big 4 and 5 star parks have whole sections of this permanent residents cabins.
The big parks also rent out cabins, in the 4 and 5 star parks this can be very luxurious cabins with spa, bbq, 2 bedrooms, multiple TV’s. A good option to stay in instead of a hotel or motel. We will see after we move on up north without the van if we stay in these cabins, the parks with it’s pools and playgrounds are great for them..
Today we booked 10 days Noosa Heads, starting 22nd of February. We booked a 2 bedrooms seafront apartment in a place called Maison Noosa.
12-1-2010 (Friday)
The kids played at a very cool indoor playground on the caravan park even when is was already 28c in the morning.
We left the park after one day to move up to the Gold Coast. Somewhere just before Surfers Paradise we bought 2 pairs of new sunglasses for Sharon and Ruben, a Ray Ban and Oakley. We drove on to our campsite on Main Beach. The park is perfectly situated in Main Beach, a 30 minute walk to Surfers and a 15 minute walk to Versace Palace and 30 minute to Sea World.
Sharai slept in the early afternoon and Zeb and Ruben checked out the swimming pool. After Sharai woke up we went to see the beach and walked to Mirage Marine shopping mall. A nice walk along the beach.
It’s like Miami here. We feel at home in these surroundings.
We wanted to get an ice cream for the kids and then sit down for coffee. We ended up at the poolside of the Versace palace (hotel). Did we know the pool is for hotel guest only. The kids played on the artificial beach in the pool and we had a good cappuccino in Versace porcelain.
What a nice hotel!! We checked out the rates to see if we want to stay there one night, we will see.
We checked out some restaurants in the marina and walked back ‘home’. We had hamburgers by Ruben and the kids played with some other kids in the playground.
The kids and Sharon rented Madagascar 2 for the evening. Ruben went to see the cricket.
We will stay here at least 4 days, we want to visit 3 of the main theme parks in Gold Coast. Sea World, Movie World and Wet ‘nd Wild.
We checked our early from the caravan park and parked our van on the public parking on main beach.
The sun was shining (like most of the time) and we had a wonderful morning at the beach. The beach at Byron Bay is really good.
At noon we had lunch, we set up our chairs at the front of our van overlooking the beach and ocean. Was great and felt really how camping should be: free!
We drove up to Cape Byron, the far east point of Australia. A headland next to the ton of Byron Bay. The cape has a lighthouse with a magnificent view. Things like this we do as Japanes or Americans do Europe in two weeks. One of us gets out of the car makes pictures and of we go. It’s no way we offload the kids have a look or walk and load again.
We did some shopping in Byron Bay and set off to Hastings Point, only a 30 minute drive. At Hastingspoint we arrived at North Star Holiday Resort, a 5 star caravan park. We have an ensuite here as well. We checked the swimming pool, also Sharai went down the waterslides.
She develops so fast.
The interesting thing about the caravan parks is that they also have permanent residents in cabins mostly retirees that moved to a coastal park. The big 4 and 5 star parks have whole sections of this permanent residents cabins.
The big parks also rent out cabins, in the 4 and 5 star parks this can be very luxurious cabins with spa, bbq, 2 bedrooms, multiple TV’s. A good option to stay in instead of a hotel or motel. We will see after we move on up north without the van if we stay in these cabins, the parks with it’s pools and playgrounds are great for them..
Today we booked 10 days Noosa Heads, starting 22nd of February. We booked a 2 bedrooms seafront apartment in a place called Maison Noosa.
12-1-2010 (Friday)
The kids played at a very cool indoor playground on the caravan park even when is was already 28c in the morning.
We left the park after one day to move up to the Gold Coast. Somewhere just before Surfers Paradise we bought 2 pairs of new sunglasses for Sharon and Ruben, a Ray Ban and Oakley. We drove on to our campsite on Main Beach. The park is perfectly situated in Main Beach, a 30 minute walk to Surfers and a 15 minute walk to Versace Palace and 30 minute to Sea World.
Sharai slept in the early afternoon and Zeb and Ruben checked out the swimming pool. After Sharai woke up we went to see the beach and walked to Mirage Marine shopping mall. A nice walk along the beach.
It’s like Miami here. We feel at home in these surroundings.
We wanted to get an ice cream for the kids and then sit down for coffee. We ended up at the poolside of the Versace palace (hotel). Did we know the pool is for hotel guest only. The kids played on the artificial beach in the pool and we had a good cappuccino in Versace porcelain.
What a nice hotel!! We checked out the rates to see if we want to stay there one night, we will see.
We checked out some restaurants in the marina and walked back ‘home’. We had hamburgers by Ruben and the kids played with some other kids in the playground.
The kids and Sharon rented Madagascar 2 for the evening. Ruben went to see the cricket.
We will stay here at least 4 days, we want to visit 3 of the main theme parks in Gold Coast. Sea World, Movie World and Wet ‘nd Wild.
woensdag 10 februari 2010
Yamba and Byron Bay
9-1-2010 (Tuesday)
After a rainy night again Zeb and Ruben went to watch cartoons in the kids club. Back at the van we had Frosties (according to the kids: Tiger Chips). We did the whole shebang: new water, toilet empty, waste water empty, van clean, beds into sofa’s , luggage in the shower, prams in the shower, kids car seats installed, sunscreen in, fold in chairs and table in van compartment and finally detach from power.
We headed for Yamba today, a nice coastal town in an area they call the Clarence Valley. We parked the car at main beach and first had lunch. At the beach we set up our sun tent for the first time, it unfolds itself. Few jellyfish in the sea, so no swimming for the kids. Off course we dug a swimming pool and the kids had an ice-cream.
We left the beach at around 3:30 and parked the van in the centre of town. We strolled along the little shops and did some grocery shopping.
All this towns or villages we visited are small, 63% of the people living in NSW live in Sydney
We did not decide on the caravan park before coming to Yamba, no need too in this time of year. We choose Blue Dolphin Holiday Resort because it had two waterslides (www.bluedolphin.com.au).
The park is a 5 minutes drive from the center on the banks of the Clarence River. Again a beautiful resort, with palm trees, playground, two pools etc. for kids these kind of parks are better then a five star hotel.
This time we took something they call a ensuite. We have our own shower and toilet in a little room next to our van. Stupid we had not done this before in other campsites.
Checked in we had a swim after which we had drinks. For dinner today on the BBQ: lamb. As with the fruits and greens, the meat is great. Beef, Lamb, Veal, Chicken, everything.
10-1-2010 (Wednesday)
Pancakes for breakfast. After breakfast we went to the river, the kids played in the water. Fishing is really number 1 hobby in Australia. Everywhere there are boat ramps. Also here on the Clarence river at our park.
A guy came ashore with 2 huge fishes, flat heads. He cleaned them on a designated table on the beach and gave the leftovers to 5 Pelicans, a nice scene.
After this we took a swim in the pool, we left the park at noon and set direction to Byron Bay.
Byron Bay is famous for its free spirit and not to be missed on a trip on the east coast of Australia.
It took us a little bit less than two hours in which we passed by the city of Balina and the town of Lennox Head, famous for its surf breaks.
We found a caravan park on the seafront and in the center, First Sun.
We put the kids in the prams and took a walk around town. Great beach, nice shops, nice restaurants but a lot of backpackers. This town is backpackers heaven.
We had ice cream, bought a bikini for Sharon and did some groceries. And off course we tested the seafront playground.
We had diner in a lovely Thai, Lucy Thai that was recommended by our favorite travel guide, Footprint. Back in the van we watched Happy Feet together.
(there is a sign in the park to be careful for snakes, there was a snake sighting not that long ago in the park. And we saw a snake patrol car driving by)
After a rainy night again Zeb and Ruben went to watch cartoons in the kids club. Back at the van we had Frosties (according to the kids: Tiger Chips). We did the whole shebang: new water, toilet empty, waste water empty, van clean, beds into sofa’s , luggage in the shower, prams in the shower, kids car seats installed, sunscreen in, fold in chairs and table in van compartment and finally detach from power.
We headed for Yamba today, a nice coastal town in an area they call the Clarence Valley. We parked the car at main beach and first had lunch. At the beach we set up our sun tent for the first time, it unfolds itself. Few jellyfish in the sea, so no swimming for the kids. Off course we dug a swimming pool and the kids had an ice-cream.
We left the beach at around 3:30 and parked the van in the centre of town. We strolled along the little shops and did some grocery shopping.
All this towns or villages we visited are small, 63% of the people living in NSW live in Sydney
We did not decide on the caravan park before coming to Yamba, no need too in this time of year. We choose Blue Dolphin Holiday Resort because it had two waterslides (www.bluedolphin.com.au).
The park is a 5 minutes drive from the center on the banks of the Clarence River. Again a beautiful resort, with palm trees, playground, two pools etc. for kids these kind of parks are better then a five star hotel.
This time we took something they call a ensuite. We have our own shower and toilet in a little room next to our van. Stupid we had not done this before in other campsites.
Checked in we had a swim after which we had drinks. For dinner today on the BBQ: lamb. As with the fruits and greens, the meat is great. Beef, Lamb, Veal, Chicken, everything.
10-1-2010 (Wednesday)
Pancakes for breakfast. After breakfast we went to the river, the kids played in the water. Fishing is really number 1 hobby in Australia. Everywhere there are boat ramps. Also here on the Clarence river at our park.
A guy came ashore with 2 huge fishes, flat heads. He cleaned them on a designated table on the beach and gave the leftovers to 5 Pelicans, a nice scene.
After this we took a swim in the pool, we left the park at noon and set direction to Byron Bay.
Byron Bay is famous for its free spirit and not to be missed on a trip on the east coast of Australia.
It took us a little bit less than two hours in which we passed by the city of Balina and the town of Lennox Head, famous for its surf breaks.
We found a caravan park on the seafront and in the center, First Sun.
We put the kids in the prams and took a walk around town. Great beach, nice shops, nice restaurants but a lot of backpackers. This town is backpackers heaven.
We had ice cream, bought a bikini for Sharon and did some groceries. And off course we tested the seafront playground.
We had diner in a lovely Thai, Lucy Thai that was recommended by our favorite travel guide, Footprint. Back in the van we watched Happy Feet together.
(there is a sign in the park to be careful for snakes, there was a snake sighting not that long ago in the park. And we saw a snake patrol car driving by)
maandag 8 februari 2010
Rain, Kangeroos and relaxing.
7-2-2010 (Sunday)
It’s the most rain in Australia for 7 years, in some parts of NSW even the most since 1969. We had our share last night again.
Today we did a daytrip to Coffs Harbour, 20 minutes south from our campsite. We parked at the marina and had fish and chips at the fish market in the marina, really nice. We walked along the harbor and saw a giant turtle swimming up to the surface to grasp some air.
For groceries we went to Palm Beach Plaza, big shopping mall. Most shops were closed due to suday. We did our groceries at Woolworth. The fruits and greens look and taste better then at home.
Driving back, Sharai felt a sleep, and we took some stops at nice look outs. Like Emerald beach and Woolgoolga, the last had a good view from a headland. Driving back we saw at least 6 kangaroos, one of which was huge.
Back ‘home’ we had healthy dinner after the fish and chips for lunch and stayed in due to the rain.
It’s expected that we have some rain tomorrow and then it will get better. Still temperatures are above 25c.
8-2-2010 (Monday)
Woke up with the sun shining again. Zeb and Ruben woke up pretty early, 7:15, when they opened the door of the van two kangaroos were having breakfast in front of the van. When they jumped away and we got at the back of the fan to refill the water tank there was another kangaroo. Excellent way to start the day.
Ruben and the kids took a swim and Sharon arranged the van and did the laundry. After the swim in the pool we went to the beach. WE WERE THE ONKLY ONES ON THE BEACH. The current is very strong so only Ruben took a little body surf. The kids played in the sand while Sharon and Ruben sat down and relaxed (if we do anything else these days).
Back at the van we made some club sandwiches and Sharai went for her afternoon sleep.
We had a relax afternoon with some reading, surfing on the internet for future accommodation and swimming.
After dinner we had a swim, we were the only ones at the pool.
All by all a very relaxing day. Tomorrow we will move further up north.
It’s the most rain in Australia for 7 years, in some parts of NSW even the most since 1969. We had our share last night again.
Today we did a daytrip to Coffs Harbour, 20 minutes south from our campsite. We parked at the marina and had fish and chips at the fish market in the marina, really nice. We walked along the harbor and saw a giant turtle swimming up to the surface to grasp some air.
For groceries we went to Palm Beach Plaza, big shopping mall. Most shops were closed due to suday. We did our groceries at Woolworth. The fruits and greens look and taste better then at home.
Driving back, Sharai felt a sleep, and we took some stops at nice look outs. Like Emerald beach and Woolgoolga, the last had a good view from a headland. Driving back we saw at least 6 kangaroos, one of which was huge.
Back ‘home’ we had healthy dinner after the fish and chips for lunch and stayed in due to the rain.
It’s expected that we have some rain tomorrow and then it will get better. Still temperatures are above 25c.
8-2-2010 (Monday)
Woke up with the sun shining again. Zeb and Ruben woke up pretty early, 7:15, when they opened the door of the van two kangaroos were having breakfast in front of the van. When they jumped away and we got at the back of the fan to refill the water tank there was another kangaroo. Excellent way to start the day.
Ruben and the kids took a swim and Sharon arranged the van and did the laundry. After the swim in the pool we went to the beach. WE WERE THE ONKLY ONES ON THE BEACH. The current is very strong so only Ruben took a little body surf. The kids played in the sand while Sharon and Ruben sat down and relaxed (if we do anything else these days).
Back at the van we made some club sandwiches and Sharai went for her afternoon sleep.
We had a relax afternoon with some reading, surfing on the internet for future accommodation and swimming.
After dinner we had a swim, we were the only ones at the pool.
All by all a very relaxing day. Tomorrow we will move further up north.
zaterdag 6 februari 2010
Day at the campsite
6-2-2010 (Saturday)
Unbelievable, again rain during the night and heavy rain it was. Still some moisture in the air when we woke up, tropical weather!
We all went to the kids club. We were hoping for many kids to show up, but in the end it was just us four in the kids club. Zeb made a kite and Sharon enjoyed even more making it. A Kite with a car in all colors and Zeb wanted “The three sisters” on his kite. We really like the idea that he remembered our trip through the Blue Mountains. Sharai just colored herself, instead of the paper in front of here.
We took a dip in the pool and Zeb went on the waterslide on his own, with his orange floaters on. He, and we all do, really like the slides.
It rained and Sharon did the laundry ($ 4coins and because they’re all concerned about the water, the spinning time is half time we’re used to back home. So nothing is really clean after washing it in the machine).
We had great lunch in front of the campervan and Sharai and Ruben had a sleep. After we walked to rent another movie, we walked to the beach and saw a Kangaroo with a “Joey” (a baby kangaroo). Very sweet and our first joey ever….
The beach was beautiful and we walked up to the shore. It was as if in the movies; misty, blue and no one there; just the 4 of us.
We jumped on the jumping pillow, had another swim in the pool, had a BBQ and a lot of skyping… It rained all night long and it felt like we were about to sail away the morning after.
Unbelievable, again rain during the night and heavy rain it was. Still some moisture in the air when we woke up, tropical weather!
We all went to the kids club. We were hoping for many kids to show up, but in the end it was just us four in the kids club. Zeb made a kite and Sharon enjoyed even more making it. A Kite with a car in all colors and Zeb wanted “The three sisters” on his kite. We really like the idea that he remembered our trip through the Blue Mountains. Sharai just colored herself, instead of the paper in front of here.
We took a dip in the pool and Zeb went on the waterslide on his own, with his orange floaters on. He, and we all do, really like the slides.
It rained and Sharon did the laundry ($ 4coins and because they’re all concerned about the water, the spinning time is half time we’re used to back home. So nothing is really clean after washing it in the machine).
We had great lunch in front of the campervan and Sharai and Ruben had a sleep. After we walked to rent another movie, we walked to the beach and saw a Kangaroo with a “Joey” (a baby kangaroo). Very sweet and our first joey ever….
The beach was beautiful and we walked up to the shore. It was as if in the movies; misty, blue and no one there; just the 4 of us.
We jumped on the jumping pillow, had another swim in the pool, had a BBQ and a lot of skyping… It rained all night long and it felt like we were about to sail away the morning after.
vrijdag 5 februari 2010
In prison
4-2-2010 (Thursday)
Again heavy rain during the night. We spend most of the morning in the town center, 2minute walk from the campsite. Did some shopping and had coffee and lunch. Off course the kids tested the local playground.
Afternoon at the pool and bbq for dinner.
Today we bought dvd from Iceage the movie. We buy dvd’s now and then. We and the kids love watching in the evening, and the lids also during driving. Next to watching dvd’s the kids listen to two cd’s while we are driving, one is animal songs and the other K3.
We can all sing all songs by hart now.
5-2-2010 (Friday)
We decided to move on, to where was not determined yet when we left Port Macquire. Our first stop of the day was Trial Bay Gaol. Trial Bay is again an beautiful bay. The Gaol (prison) on the point of cliff was built in 1877 and was used for prisoners working on a watershed and later for German internees during WO 1. We did a tour through the Gaol and had lunch at the edge of the cliff in front of our ‘house’ , it’s very easy that you’ll bring your fridge everywhere.
We checked out some campsites in the bay and went to the little town of New South Rocks, there was a small nice campsite on the beachfront that had no vacancy.
We walked around the town and off course checked out the beachfront playground. Really nice little town. We bought a beach tent, one that jumps open and is a small tent. To fold it in again will be the challenge.
Kids were really tired, they go to bed very late and don’t sleep in, the only time they sleep some extra is during driving. So we decided to move on, around 4 we left New South Rocks and set for Coffs Harbour region. Coffs Harbour is a real city. North and south of the city are good resorts. We chose darlington beach (www.darlingtonbeach.com.au) a 4,5 star campsite. We arrived at 6:30, had dinner in the restaurant on site and rent dvd Madagascar.
The park has a swimming pool has two huge waterslides, two jumping pillows, beachfront, nine hole golf course and a kids club. Due to the end of the summer holidays, the park is very quit. We will stay here for some days.
Also spoke to Ruben’s uncle Lex who is n Australia (Sydney), maybe we can meet him in Byron Bay or Surfers Paradise, for us further up north.
Unbelievable, again rain during the night and heavy rain it was. Still some moisture in the air when we woke up, tropical!
Again heavy rain during the night. We spend most of the morning in the town center, 2minute walk from the campsite. Did some shopping and had coffee and lunch. Off course the kids tested the local playground.
Afternoon at the pool and bbq for dinner.
Today we bought dvd from Iceage the movie. We buy dvd’s now and then. We and the kids love watching in the evening, and the lids also during driving. Next to watching dvd’s the kids listen to two cd’s while we are driving, one is animal songs and the other K3.
We can all sing all songs by hart now.
5-2-2010 (Friday)
We decided to move on, to where was not determined yet when we left Port Macquire. Our first stop of the day was Trial Bay Gaol. Trial Bay is again an beautiful bay. The Gaol (prison) on the point of cliff was built in 1877 and was used for prisoners working on a watershed and later for German internees during WO 1. We did a tour through the Gaol and had lunch at the edge of the cliff in front of our ‘house’ , it’s very easy that you’ll bring your fridge everywhere.
We checked out some campsites in the bay and went to the little town of New South Rocks, there was a small nice campsite on the beachfront that had no vacancy.
We walked around the town and off course checked out the beachfront playground. Really nice little town. We bought a beach tent, one that jumps open and is a small tent. To fold it in again will be the challenge.
Kids were really tired, they go to bed very late and don’t sleep in, the only time they sleep some extra is during driving. So we decided to move on, around 4 we left New South Rocks and set for Coffs Harbour region. Coffs Harbour is a real city. North and south of the city are good resorts. We chose darlington beach (www.darlingtonbeach.com.au) a 4,5 star campsite. We arrived at 6:30, had dinner in the restaurant on site and rent dvd Madagascar.
The park has a swimming pool has two huge waterslides, two jumping pillows, beachfront, nine hole golf course and a kids club. Due to the end of the summer holidays, the park is very quit. We will stay here for some days.
Also spoke to Ruben’s uncle Lex who is n Australia (Sydney), maybe we can meet him in Byron Bay or Surfers Paradise, for us further up north.
Unbelievable, again rain during the night and heavy rain it was. Still some moisture in the air when we woke up, tropical!
woensdag 3 februari 2010
Offroad driving and back in the city
3-2-2010 (Wednesday)
All up very early @ 7:30. At breakfast we decided to go further up north due to the rain coming in. Our stop is Port Macquire, officially the place with the best climate in the whole of Australia.
But the first turn we took we arrived on a gravel kind of road in the midst of a national forest, no way to turn the van. So we drove for 6 km in this huge van on a soft road through a forest. Positive thing was that we finally were in the forest without needing to hike, negative thing it brought some tension in the drivers cabin ;). But we got out well and now we appreciate asphalt even more.
Kids slept most of the way, just before Port Macquire we went to a small zoo called Billabong Koala breeding centre. With most of typical Australian animals. We padded a Koala, feed different kind of Kangaroos, saw snakes, ostriches, dingo’s and all kind of birds. One of the birds a giant eagle.
All though we saw the roos and koala’s in real, touching them was a nice experience.
Around 4 we arrived a our campsite, sundowner Port Macquire, a park situated in the centre of town and on beachfront. Nice to be in a town again, after all we are real cityslickers.
Off course we had a swim in the pool and drinks in front of the van.
Tonight we had Sharon’s belated diner out, we got reference from our favorite travel guide the footprint East Coast Australia. Very comprehensive and clear travel book. We brought more than five guides. Usually we use the guides day before or day of travel, works good for us.
The restaurant we choose was Fusion 7 on Horton street (one of the busy streets). And indeed was an excellent choice, real good fusion cooking.
Walking back Zeb fell asleep and it started raining just when we arrived back in the van.
We got quit some rain during the nights and also some parts of the days, It seems further up north there is more rain the coming week. So we have to see what we will do. We have little more than over 2 weeks in the van before we will hand it back in Brisbane. So we are on track and no need to hurry. As they say over here: “no worries mate”
All up very early @ 7:30. At breakfast we decided to go further up north due to the rain coming in. Our stop is Port Macquire, officially the place with the best climate in the whole of Australia.
But the first turn we took we arrived on a gravel kind of road in the midst of a national forest, no way to turn the van. So we drove for 6 km in this huge van on a soft road through a forest. Positive thing was that we finally were in the forest without needing to hike, negative thing it brought some tension in the drivers cabin ;). But we got out well and now we appreciate asphalt even more.
Kids slept most of the way, just before Port Macquire we went to a small zoo called Billabong Koala breeding centre. With most of typical Australian animals. We padded a Koala, feed different kind of Kangaroos, saw snakes, ostriches, dingo’s and all kind of birds. One of the birds a giant eagle.
All though we saw the roos and koala’s in real, touching them was a nice experience.
Around 4 we arrived a our campsite, sundowner Port Macquire, a park situated in the centre of town and on beachfront. Nice to be in a town again, after all we are real cityslickers.
Off course we had a swim in the pool and drinks in front of the van.
Tonight we had Sharon’s belated diner out, we got reference from our favorite travel guide the footprint East Coast Australia. Very comprehensive and clear travel book. We brought more than five guides. Usually we use the guides day before or day of travel, works good for us.
The restaurant we choose was Fusion 7 on Horton street (one of the busy streets). And indeed was an excellent choice, real good fusion cooking.
Walking back Zeb fell asleep and it started raining just when we arrived back in the van.
We got quit some rain during the nights and also some parts of the days, It seems further up north there is more rain the coming week. So we have to see what we will do. We have little more than over 2 weeks in the van before we will hand it back in Brisbane. So we are on track and no need to hurry. As they say over here: “no worries mate”
dinsdag 2 februari 2010
Surfing and Sharon's birthday
31-1-2010 (Sunday)
Heavy rain during the night again. Sharon finally slept well since the night she saw the spider (Ruben gave her some homeopathic sleeping pills)
Kids day today, everyday is kids day but today some extras starting with pancakes with 100 % pure maple syrup and strawberries for breakfast. After breakfast we went of to the beach.
We bought a small body board with which we had a lot of fun today. The wave were great, first Sharon and Ruben enjoyed.
But later Zeb got the hang for it and became a real Australian surfer dude. Going in the waves with his bodyboard. It’s funny to see because he also wears his inflatable arm cushions. Sharai is a real summer princess, cause with her being only 2 years of age, she also started to bodysurf like a real gorgeous, blond; tanned, blue eyed aussi gir!l
We had a real summer lunch back home () with a Salad Nicoise and a glass of our Hunter Valley rose.
After lunch we took our house for a drive, we went to Nelson Bay to check on the Dolphin cruises and drove on to Shoalbay to have a look. Kids slept while we were driving.
Back at the site we went for a swim in de pool.
The campsite is very quit now, holidays are over and also the weekend is over. We think future campsites will be quit as well. We will stay another night here.
1-2-2010 (Monday)
Quick breakfast and of we went to the marina of Nelson Bay to take a Dolphin watch cruise. We Had a nice small catamaran with a Jacuzzi, water net and slide on board. We set ourselves in the front of the boat next to the Jacuzzi.
We saw at least 10 Dolphins, a few really close. The boat stopped in the bay of SHoalbay where we used the slide to have a swim in the sea.
Zeb slipped from the stairs but is ok.
Back in Nelson Bay we went to the playground and then to the shopping center of Salamander Bay. We did some birthday shopping for Sharon’s birthday breakfast and we bought a birthday present, a Kodak video camera.
Back at the campsite at around 5 we went for a bodysurf in the sea.
For dinner we had the best bbqed burgers ever. In the camper we watched Shrek the Third together, in the master bedroom.
Tomorrow Sharon’s birthday and then on the move to our next stop.
2-2-2010 (Tuesday)
Sharon’s birthday: Lavish breakfast with pancakes, cakes, fruits. OJ and cappuccinos. Already receiving first phone calls from NL.
After breakfast, morning bodysurf at the beach and then packed for driving further up north.
We drove most of the trip today on a scenic route again, passing by two lakes, Myall and Wallis. A part of the way was on a small stretch of land between lake and sea, really beautiful.
We did some shopping in Forster at Woolworth supermarket. Doing shopping in an other counties big supermarket is always fun. Good fresh fruits, greens and meat in Australia.
We had a look at a nice caravan park, but we passed it over to go to a real beachfront park. So we ended up little further on north in Halidays Point. Great pool and on the beachfront.
Because we could choose to have a birthday dinner in a tavern down the road or at the bowling club we had a Sharon BBQ tonight. Ruben bbqed a salad of greens and Salomon.
About the bowling, this is the British style bowling that we think they call bowls. You have a club with facilities in every little town. It looks it’s played by senior citizens only. They sometimes show it on BBC.
Heavy rain during the night again. Sharon finally slept well since the night she saw the spider (Ruben gave her some homeopathic sleeping pills)
Kids day today, everyday is kids day but today some extras starting with pancakes with 100 % pure maple syrup and strawberries for breakfast. After breakfast we went of to the beach.
We bought a small body board with which we had a lot of fun today. The wave were great, first Sharon and Ruben enjoyed.
But later Zeb got the hang for it and became a real Australian surfer dude. Going in the waves with his bodyboard. It’s funny to see because he also wears his inflatable arm cushions. Sharai is a real summer princess, cause with her being only 2 years of age, she also started to bodysurf like a real gorgeous, blond; tanned, blue eyed aussi gir!l
We had a real summer lunch back home () with a Salad Nicoise and a glass of our Hunter Valley rose.
After lunch we took our house for a drive, we went to Nelson Bay to check on the Dolphin cruises and drove on to Shoalbay to have a look. Kids slept while we were driving.
Back at the site we went for a swim in de pool.
The campsite is very quit now, holidays are over and also the weekend is over. We think future campsites will be quit as well. We will stay another night here.
1-2-2010 (Monday)
Quick breakfast and of we went to the marina of Nelson Bay to take a Dolphin watch cruise. We Had a nice small catamaran with a Jacuzzi, water net and slide on board. We set ourselves in the front of the boat next to the Jacuzzi.
We saw at least 10 Dolphins, a few really close. The boat stopped in the bay of SHoalbay where we used the slide to have a swim in the sea.
Zeb slipped from the stairs but is ok.
Back in Nelson Bay we went to the playground and then to the shopping center of Salamander Bay. We did some birthday shopping for Sharon’s birthday breakfast and we bought a birthday present, a Kodak video camera.
Back at the campsite at around 5 we went for a bodysurf in the sea.
For dinner we had the best bbqed burgers ever. In the camper we watched Shrek the Third together, in the master bedroom.
Tomorrow Sharon’s birthday and then on the move to our next stop.
2-2-2010 (Tuesday)
Sharon’s birthday: Lavish breakfast with pancakes, cakes, fruits. OJ and cappuccinos. Already receiving first phone calls from NL.
After breakfast, morning bodysurf at the beach and then packed for driving further up north.
We drove most of the trip today on a scenic route again, passing by two lakes, Myall and Wallis. A part of the way was on a small stretch of land between lake and sea, really beautiful.
We did some shopping in Forster at Woolworth supermarket. Doing shopping in an other counties big supermarket is always fun. Good fresh fruits, greens and meat in Australia.
We had a look at a nice caravan park, but we passed it over to go to a real beachfront park. So we ended up little further on north in Halidays Point. Great pool and on the beachfront.
Because we could choose to have a birthday dinner in a tavern down the road or at the bowling club we had a Sharon BBQ tonight. Ruben bbqed a salad of greens and Salomon.
About the bowling, this is the British style bowling that we think they call bowls. You have a club with facilities in every little town. It looks it’s played by senior citizens only. They sometimes show it on BBC.
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