We are close to Canberra, close to Hunter Valley, close to Blue Mountains and not that far from Gold Coast and Brisbane.
But Australia is HUGE.
If you want to explore Australia by car it can take you months and months to do that.
Uluru, is a place that is not too close but not that far.
Living in Sydney for nearly 3 years, Uluru always makes me so curious. Only few hours from Sydney, it can take you to Northern Territory and head to Kings Canyon and red rocks like Kata Tjuta and National park.
We can easily find information about Uluru. It was originally called Ayers Rock, named by William Gosse in 1873 after Sir Henry Ayers. Uluru is its Aboriginal and official name.
The famous sunrise and sunset makes me feel that I have to visit this amazing place at least once in my life. I don't really know about the history of the area, but by chance I saw my friend post photos she took at Ayers Rock at sunrise and sunset and I think it was amazing.
Nature is so touching, you can never imagine what it can do.
According to my friends, there are a few things you must do at Uluru.
First, is base walk. It is the best way to get you around this beautiful place.
Second, is viewing Uluru at sunrise and sunset. You definitely need to arrange your accommodation before you do these two.
Third, is culture center. If you run into this beautiful place but want to learn more, culture center can help you out with what you want to know about Uluru and provide an introduction to Anangu culture.
Mykonos is a Greek island, part of the Cyclades, lying between Tinos, Syros, Paros and Naxos. The island spans a mere area of 85.5 kilometres
Why Mykonos you ask ?
As you can tell by my last few posts, despite the cliche "Want to go to's", I love beaches, and small community feeling places. To be honest my inspiration to go backpacking around the Greek islands was inspired by a few movies (The Inbetweeners, Wog Boy 2, and Mama Mia) due to the perception of what a great time everyone has in the islands, and also because of the amazing scenery, and also not to forget the magical historical attributes the islands posses.
"Just look ... "
Source: Mykonos Tourism
Working in the hospitality industry personally I am always on the TripAdvisor website to review my work in particular, but also to broaden my knowledge about other countries in the world, and the different places which stand out to other travellers as hot spots. Over the past 3 months I've been accumulating a little bucket list for what to see and do in Mykonos.
THE PLAN ... (What to do ?)
Architecture:
Visiting the amazing architecture is an absolute must on my Mykonos bucket list.
Churches, Windmills, and Traditional Greek Designed buildings such as ...
1. Archaeological Site of Delos: definitely a must as it is one of the most important historical, mythological in Greece and the entire world as it is the supposed birthplace of the twins Apollo and Artemis
2. Church of Paraportiani: another must as it is an important Religious site in Greek history
3. The Windmills (Kato Milli): located at the peak of the island, another great place of history I wish to visit
"It's very Greek ..."
Source: Mykonos Tourism
Bars / Clubs:
It's again, cliche, but beach parties, lane way bars are a critical element to any trip to Mykonos.
Again based on the ratings from TripAdvisor, aside from the wild beach, and cruise parties, it appears Cine Manto Mykonos is another must ! Not only does it deliver awesome entertainment throughout the day and night, it also delivers with appetising food, tranquil shade for those hot Mykonos days, and refreshing alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, as well as fun ambience.
"Grown up ? Well then grow back down again ... the night is yours !"
Source: newaeoloshotel.com
Food:
Yes. I am a foodie.
Being able to finally understanding what real Kebabs taste like, taking seaside dining to a whole new definition, eating freshly caught seafood daily, and breads ! Where do I start ... Bread never tastes so good ... the oils, and vinegars the Greeks use in their breads alone has the ability to fill you up instantly ...
I certainly intend on fasting before the trip in order to prepare my tastebuds ...
Agio's Stefano's Voted Number 1 Dining Choice on TripAdvisor Mykonos
Source: tripadvisor.com
Interacting with the locals:
Sure travelling is about taking photos, getting out and about, and doing to touristy things, but it's also about meeting other cultures, understanding their ways of life, and especially in Mykonos, being able to learn a dance or two ... and some traditional songs to sing over a few drinks ... (well that's the plan anyway ...)
Meet the real Kings of Mykonos ...
Source: Wog Boy 2: The Kings of Mykonos
Beaches:
As I Said before, I love the beach ...
There are numerous beaches located throughout Mykonos, all with different target crowds, and special historical meanings, but the main reason they're on my bucket list to visit is due to the clarity of the waters
I definitely won't forget my boardies ...
"Crystal clear water ..."
Source: Mykonos Tourism
So how do I get there ?
Since the increased competition in the European airline industry, and the fall of the Euro dollar, flights to Mykonos are relatively cheap, however in order to experience more than just the back of another seat, I would definitely aim to spend a little bit extra and cruise around the other Greek Islands, and progressively make my way to Mykonos.
The option is yours ...
So ... what inspires YOU to go on new adventures ?
Sorrento, Italy is actually a relatively new place in my books of where I'd like to go which I discovered through one of my favourite YouTubers who made frequent visits to the city. My main reason to why I'd love to visit this city is due to the magnificent coastal views it offers. I find it fascinating how living in Sydney, our view of our coastal areas differ greatly to coastal regions in other countries.
ACCOMMODATION
The YouTubers I mentioned, on their recent holiday stayed at the Bellevue Syrene, a 5 star luxury hotel that sits on a steep cliff overlooking the beautiful Gulf of Naples. The hotel also contains an array of amenities that'd enhance your holiday stay, including a private sunbathing deck, indoor swimming pool, beauty centre and restaurants on the terraces with scenic views. Interestingly, the hotel has a rich history, with the construction of its base villa in 1750 which was iconically the place where Augustus was exiled. The first hotel rooms were constructed in 1820, meaning it bears an age of nearly 200 years old.
PLACES TO VISIT Many people who stay in Sorrento have a tendency to visit places outside of the city. Thus the following places that I've chosen as my key places to visit aren't exactly in Sorrento, but are within reasonable travelling distance of Sorrento. 1) Boat ride to the island of Capri The island of Capri lies 5km from the mainline, in the Bay of Naples. The island, which has two parts or municipalities (Capri and Anacapri) is essentially a mass of calcareous rock of 10 squared kilometres. The attraction I would particularly like to see is the Blue Grotto, a cavern lagoon that is 25m wide and 60m long but has an entrance that is less than a metre high. Entering the lagoon therefore requires visitors to lay on their backs on wooden rowboats. After this visit, I'd like to take a dip at the Marina Piccola, a beach which is a rare occurrence in the area due to the fact the coasts are primarily high rocky cliffs.
2) Amalfi Coast Stretching along south Sorrentine Peninsula, Amalfi Coast is another place to visit, with is picturesque contrast between the rugged mountain faces and the cluster of housing. It has been listed as a World Heritage Site as an 'outstanding example of a Mediterranean landscape, with exceptional cultural and natural scenic values'. From Sorrento, Amalfi Coast by bus takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, a ferry can be taken but they have a specific operating period between 15th April - 30 September, whereas buses operate every hour, daily. Beware of crowding and queues in the popular seasons of April-May, specifically Easter.
Pompeii is mainly known for its ash and lava burial from the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 79 A.D. The burial captured a still of what the daily lives of people was 1935 years ago. Along with seeing the physical ruins of the city, visitors can visit museums such as The Antiquarium which contains plaster casts of people and objects impacted by the eruption. Pompeii's train station of 'Pompei Scavi' can be reached via a 40 minute train ride from Sorrento train station.
Malaysia has always been the place that I want to travel.
Lots of my friends has been travel to Malaysia and they comment that Malaysia is a beautiful country and good for travelling alone too.
The capital city of Malaysia is Kuala Lumpur, I believe most people will begin with capital city if they never travel to that country before.......... right? right guys??
Kuala Lumpur is an international city and has become a major spot for tourists.
It has Asia's tallest twin buildings with a connecting sky bridge.
I really want to visit the sky bridge during night!
Another reason that I'm attracted to Malaysia....
Yes... FOOD...
Its all about FOOD!!!!!
Malaysia is famous and proud for being multicultural as it brings different varieties of great food into its country.
In Kuala Lumpur, Petaling street is famous for all the Asian food that you can have.
My friends tell me Petaling street is full of street food and stalls including Hokkien noodle and laksa.
This is one of the famous restaurant in Kuala Lumpur! They have different style of cooking their Hokkien Noodle and it made the noodle look more dark and blacky colour. It just look so irresistible to me....
Yes, I love good food around different countries
Kuala Lumpur will definitely be on my list of must and want to go country!
In Korea, a lot of people are considered to have natural
beauty; flawless and beautiful skin. Though a lot of plastic surgery occurs in
Korea, however their cosmetics products are one of the best.
Korean women all strive to have the perfect and most
flawless skin. That’s why companies strive to create products that will allow
buyers to reach such goals. While also allowing a beautiful appearance, they
allow add natural ingredients which are naturally good for the skin to improve
their products.
Korean fashion isn’t only dainty and cute but also cool and
chic. I don’t know what I should say. But no matter what or how I look at the
clothes worn by Korean’s i think they are truly fashionable. They have all
kinds of kinds of clothing, yet something about their clothing makes it
different to that of western countries such as Australia.
This is definitely what I look forward to the most
Kimchi
Kimchi is definitely one of my most favourite dishes. Even
though it is not a proper dish, more so like a snack/side dish. A completely
savoury and spicy dish; two of my favourites combined together. It is truly
amazing.
I’m someone who is completely for meat, I would avoid greens
and vegetables when possible. That’s why I love barbecues, even more so I LOVE
Korean BBQ. Koreans have the best meat marinade I have ever tasted. I love
savoury food and the marinade they make, makes the meat taste extra delicious.
Not a mix between sweet and savoury but completely savoury.
Just like every culture and race Korea have their own
traditional clothing; Hanbok. I think
every culture with their traditional clothing is amazing! If possible I would
love to travel to every country and try on their traditional clothing. The
Hanbok has so many different colours and types, I really want to try it on.
Korea have one of the most beautiful traditional housing
I’ve ever seen. It’s simply beautiful and unique. I would love to travel to
korea and spend a few nights in a Hanok. Even
from watching many Korean dramas, the hanok is really amazing; a house that is
almost mostly made of wood.
Jeju island is the best place in Korea with the most scenic
nature view; beautiful beaches, mountains, resorts and interesting statues. The
interest statues are known as Dol
hareubang, Stone Grandfather. They are carved from a block of basalt and
are found around the island. It’s the islands most distinct culture, I guess
you could say it’s Jeju Island’s mascot.
Jeju island is also filled with numerous amazing myths and
legends. The most well known is one called Seulmundae
Halmang (Grandmother Seulmundae).
Myth:
Grandmother Seolmundae could reach from Seongsan Ilchulbong
to Guan Tai island at Aewoi in a single stride, and with two strides to Mount
Halla. She was apparently very strong and had 500 children. Being so strong she
was able to build Mount Halla with 7 scoops of earth. However, one day she was
making soup for her sons while they were hunting, but while they were out she
fell into the pot and drowned. When he sons returned home, hungry as a hippo
they began to eat the soup, without knowing that their mother had been cooked
into it. However, of the 500 sons, the youngest one was the only one to realise
and shared the news with the rest of his brothers. In the end, they all turned
into 500 stones.
Seoul
The city of Seoul, the capital of South Korea. No matter
which country you go to, you should always visit the capital city. That’s where
everything happens. A modern yet also traditional city; filled with beautiful
architectural buildings. Buildings such as temples and palaces truly showcase
the traditional side of the Korea. Seoul also have amazing towers that loom
over the city; N Seoul Tower, Tower Palace and Jongno Tower. I truly must
experience the modern and traditional side of Korea.
When I was posed with the question: "Where do I want to go ?" This was extremely difficult to decide, and this is largely behind my delayed post. (Sorry by the way ! ) After many days of pondering, I kept coming back to one place. Singapore.
Why Singapore ?
Ever since I was a little kid, I have always admired the architecture, and ever law defying infrastructure of the city, as well as the pride in which the locals take, looking after their city (i.e. the cleanliness, and friendliness. It truly provides an inspiration to the Western Culture.
Source: Singapore Tourism
So where in Singapore do I want to actually go ? Ideally, as soon as I get off the plane, I'd like to stretch the legs with a nice walk though the CBD, to take in and admire, the magnificent architecture, and infrastructure and get the camera earning its keep with photographs of the City lights being reflected of the still Marina Bay.
Next stop would have to be Universal Studios Singapore. Although a cliche for any holiday, this park is voted the Number 1 Amusement Park, and Resort in Asia with an offering of thousands of rides, and a place for everyone to enjoy no matter what age. The park is delegated into 7 unique zones including: Hollywood, New York, Sci-Fi City, Ancient Egypt, Lost World, Far Far Away, and Madagascar; guaranteeing fun for all.
Source: Universal Studios Singapore
No matter where I am on this earth, I love a good waterpark. Adventure Cove Waterpark looks like one that won't disappoint. Much like Universal Studios, providing something for the whole family, Adventure Cove offers, the world's first hydro-magnetic water coaster, the ability to snorkel over a coral reef and interact with over 20,000 sea creatures, and potential to go swimming with the sharks and rays. But it doesn't stop there, you can get your tan on with the amazing Singapore weather down by the wave pool, cruise around the park in a donut (saves the legs), and once your all dry maybe try your luck in the casino ... (remember 21+ only).
Source: Resorts World Sentosa
One of the world's tallest observation wheels, which has a 360 degree view of Singapore, overseeing Marina Bay to the islands of Malaysia and Indonesia, the Singapore Flyer is another big item on my bucket list. Stretching over 165m tall it is renowned as the best point to admire the beautiful Singapore sights. Although it's around $30AUD per 30 min ride, it will definitely be a place to remember. Hint: According to some Singaporean's I know, it is also a great place to have a wonderful dinner, and also is a popular spot for proposals.
Source: Singapore Flyer.com
It is true the best things in life are FREE.
1. Although it is great to experience all the theme parks, water parks, and commercialised attractions, it is also great to learn in your travelling experiences. This is what entices me about Merlion Park. Known as the leading tourist attraction of Singapore, Merlion Park is a spectacular place for learning about the rich culture, and heritage of Singapore, as well as being able to take some pretty decent photos. There are 2 Merlion's placed in the park which are 8.6m high, and weigh a whopping 70 tonnes, which are designed as an icon/symbol of Singapore. Hint: It's a perfect place to be witnessing fireworks across the harbour, as well as the laser shows, so try travel around National Day to observe something similar to below (that's my plan anyway ...)
Source: Singapore Tourism
2. Singapore's Royal Botanical Gardens are another great little spot to visit, and is also free to enter, and enjoy for all. The Gardens are open 5am - Midnight, and stretch 2.5km in diameter, 183 Acres in area of amazing gardens, and lakes. The Gardens were originally opened to test crops for economic validity, and now are called home for beautiful wildlife, and of course home of Singapore's world famous orchids.
Source: sbg.com.au
Insider Knowledge:
Having had some feedback from friends visiting Singapore, they said although the tourist attractions are amazing, also don't forget to have a chat to some local Singaporean's (i.e. Taxi Drivers, Hotel Staff) to get some great inside information about where to eat, and where to shop. Sim Lim Square is a little hidden gem I am in love with, and can't wait to explore. If you love electronics, this is the best little tip you'll ever receive. Sim Lim Square is essentially a shopping centre for technology, and unlike Australia, you can haggle (even after getting the 20-30% discounts!!!).
I’ve always had a love for British culture, from its music
to its food thus explaining my want to travel and experience the city of
London. Even though I can barely survive winter in Australia and UK’s summers
are comparable to Australia’s winters, seeing pictures of the global icons of
London have had me in heart eyes for ages. The Big Ben, London Eye and
Buckingham Palace are three key attractions I’ve always associated with London.
The Big Ben actually consists of the Houses of Parliament
and Elizabeth tower, even though it is usually only known as an iconic clock
tower. This landmark is more of a see and take a picture, but nonetheless
seeing things in person after viewing them in pictures countless times will
definitely be a moment to remember.
The London Eye, a Ferris wheel stands at 135m, overlooking
the river Thames, the city and its neighbours of Kennington and Mayfair. It was
constructed as a celebrant for the millennium but has since remained as a key
feature of London. There are 32 capsules, with each bearing a capacity of 25
people. One full revolution takes approximately 30 minutes. This provides the
perfect opportunity to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and
enjoy the serene and spectacular views the city of London has to offer.
Buckingham Palace is the official residence of the Royal
Family since 1837, when Queen Victoria was under reign.The Palace includes 19 state rooms, ballrooms
and gardens which are all open exclusively for public visit during August and
September. Although the Palace itself is quite magnificent and rich in history,
I particularly would love to see the ‘Changing the Guard’ ceremony where the
old Guards pass their duty to the new.
Other than these key landmarks, what would a trip to London be without using a red phone booth and riding a double decker red
bus?!?!
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