My time is up.

Well, it seems that my travels, for the moment, have come to a halt. Its always a sad and pensive time for me when I return from my travel adventure and join everyone else in living a normal, same-thing-daily, existance.
I realize that taking off for 3 months to hop-scotch the globe is an exciting and unique thing to do and for the powers that helped make that happen, I am grateful. I am also thrilled that I have had these extrodinary experiences to add to my collection. Some people's aspiration in life is to be accomplished and successful- I think mine is about exceptional experiences and connecting with people, which hopefully, in a small, profound way, will affect me and others in turn.

Wishing you a future travel adventure, soon!
xox liz

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The land of the Greek gods

'What, no toilet paper in the toilet allowed'. I hear Holly replying. It seems that I forgot to tell everyone about the TP policy in Greece. Apparently the sewage pipes are too narrow for such luxuries. Ahh, I remember, thats right, even in Athens, the major city, we weren't able to dispose of TP in the proper place, but had to throw the paper in a bin, next to the toilet. Don't let this minor inconvenence diswade you from visting this magnificient country.
After the initial shock subsided, we realized what a wonderful island Rhodes was. Our pension was mounted on the highest peak in the old city of Rhodes with a view from the terrace to die for. People..., its all about the views. Always seek to discover the best views in any destination and it'll be the snapshots that you remember the longest.
Our 3-night stay in the medevil, perfectly perserved walled city of Rhodes began with a ferry from Bodrum Turkey. This is where both Paul and John, resided for a short time. There are 2 main gates in/out of this city thus few cars are allowed b/c of the narrow streets and even fewer parking spots. The annoying scooters, however, had no problem squeezing in and were in abundance. I was thrilled to be here, after spending 4-nights at oceanside resorts, as this was exactly the type of city, saturated in anceint history and archetecture, that I love being in.
Our group had dramatically changed, as Paul C left our group and 2 gals, Camille & Cara joined us. Poor Rick, now accountable for 4 girls and no 'guy buddies' to share the responsibilities with. Fortunately, he's a man of many talents, so even though his patience was tested - many times over, he managed to get us all home safely and still remain friends :-)
Our next stop was the picturesque, cliffside Is. of Santorini. This is probably the most scenic of all the islands as the contrast of the volcanic earth and white washed, blue lined building are unbelieveable stunning. It one of these places you simply can't fully describe using the english language it needs to be witnessed and experienced. I had been to this island before so it was a treat to see the 'ahh, ohh, wow' expressed with my travel companions.
When we stepped into our cliffside villa, the ordeal of lugging all the suitcases down the 20 steps, became a forgotten memory. As we ran from room to room, discovering the villa's interior, (which used to be a wine cellar), the excitement was uncontainable. The view from the public terrace was worth the 'extra' cost. You did good, Rick. (as he was solely responsible for picking the accommodations...and nearly everything else)
The island is a continuously fiju film moment - good thing we have digital cameras as the amount of photos taken on this island, in the old days, would have totaled the plane ticket over here. Everyone was snapping away. It was actually a bit disappointing as there was no sense of 'discovery' here....every photo was a Conde Nast contestant and there was simply no 'grit' to contrast the beauty with. Of course we enjoyed it (and our glimmering blue lined pool, just the same)

Our last stop was Athens. I was here in the 90's and though it was a very tramatic time for me here (my polish friend who came with me was deported when we got to the airport = no visa) I remember it as a chaotic place to be. Well, I have to say this was not the 2006 Athens I witnessed those year ago. The 2004 Olympics must have done wonders to spruce up/clean up this cradle of society. Streets were cleaner and public transport, such as trams, have been added.
We stayed in the old 'Plaka' district which is where you'll find the Acropolis, narrow cobble stoned streets and over priced restaurants/shops.It seemed like every local, when not obstructed by buildings, had a glimpse of the Acropolis, which was always a treat esp. at night when it was flooded with lights. Walking up to the Acropolis was the culmination of the ultimate 'workout' for the 3 of us. Two weeks of conquering hills, (some of mountain proportion), was a proud moment for us. Sometimes I envision my donor's family calling me and asking 'how are those lungs treating me and have I been using them much'. They served me well...my legs, however, are a different story.

Our 2-night stay in Athens, ended quickly as we boarded a bus at 300am in the morning to catch our flights backs to Michigan (who booked the flights again?) It was catch a bus for $4 or pay $90 for taxis. This was the one drawback of traveling with a group of 5 - everything needs to be doubled - rooms, taxi's, etc. We did make it home and now we have plenty of memories of our warm, scenic days in Turkey & Greece to hold us over for the long Michigan winter to come.

Turkish Delights

Walking the streets, discovering the volumes of specialty shops and delights that wait inside, is one of the highlights of this city/country. In the markets, one finds shops filled to the brim with just deserts (the specialty are baklava and type of small cakes lathered w/ honey along with a quadzillion types of Turkish delights), spices, scarfs, hookas, and so on.
The unique observation made was that men and women do not keep company together, unless they are dating or married. (and one never sees the daters kiss or hug) You will not see single women congregating with men. A 'dolmus' bus packed with both sexes, which bear the ride in close quarters, but when disembarking, the genders split. The other interesting observation, which was quickly noticed by all of us, is that all our servers - whether it be our maids, waitstaff, drivers, shopkeepers, etc.....are all men. I have yet to find an explanation for this. but such is the landscape. The only place you'll find females working is in the public sector.
The one difficulty (albeit slight) was that few people actually speak English - so directions, when lost, are not the easiest to acquire. There seems to be a lot of handmotion on our part, (paul's become an expert) in substitution for the lack in vocabulary knowledge. In the whole week here, we probably mastered but 2 words - as the language is not the easiest to sound out.
After trying to conquer the major/massive city of Istanbul (which is the only one to straddle two continents) we took a short flight south to Izmir, the 3rd largest city. After picking up our car, we headed to the site of Ephesus - a major port (at one time) and one of the 7 church's listed in Revelation. (unfortunately, it was here that Rick's c.c, at the admission counter, was stolen and his number used to purchase $1400 worth of goods) It was an Africa hot day to say the least and the Epes site is open air, with a few shrubs for shade. Upon entering the gate, we hired on a local tour guide to take us thru. 5 min. into the guide, we all realized this was a big mistake since we had committed ourselves to a verbal presentation & wander which would last 2 hrs. The heat only took 10 min. to get to us and we trudged along, half listening, the other half trying to find an excuse to cut and run. The history of this place was way too long for our short attention span this hot, medditerian day. Finally about 1hr 15 into the tour, rick told the guide 'the girls' were getting heat stroke and he had to accompany us to the car. End of tour for the 3 of us - Paul kept on. Here is where the full facial sunburn, materialized for me - and for the next week, I was one, slightly disfigured face fried American blond - all photographs of me, were strickly prohibited.
That evening we drove to Cesme, after deciding that Rick's fine selection of hotel (which took him apprx 2 mon. to find) was not suitable for our 'lifestyle' (though it was a lovely 4 star all incl). By the 'stop, see, ask' system (which is not recommended for more than 1 party of the car, as wills become stronger, and clash of wills is bound to happen). Alas, we happened upon a perfect, 5-star, breakie/dinner inclusive resort, which was more than acceptable to all. The 180 view from the chicks room was simply too breathtaking for our basic human language to express. and since this was low season (for the resort areas) the price tag = very affordable. The beach, was one which could easily be showcased in Conde Nast Mag. The buffet dinners tables, were fancifully positioned around the reflective pool and included 2, tiny, crazy bats that kept the bugs away. The buffet selection put ear to ear grins on everyone's face.
Two nights was enough to regain some of the energy, we expended walking up all those hills in Istanbul. Holly, was a first timer in Europe - though all the walking may prove to be an obstacle for reg. Americans (as we are only used to walking too/from our cars you know) she was a real trooper and kept good pace with us. Rick is a real task master when it comes to the European walking thing :-), so anyone that travels with us in the future - plan to hoof it.
The food, you ask..., well it was far tastier and the collection of choices, more appealing than I predicted it would be. The breakfast spread was kingly (my fav. meal) and the best part, for our group of 4, was that pork was never on the menu. Since we don't eat it, having to always inquire whether this or that has pork, is a nuisance. We even had beef pepperoni. The deserts and hot drinks (which despite the weather, is a fav. beverage for all Turks) were quite satisfying to me - though not agreeable to all.
Our next stop was a drive to Bodrum, an international Aegean seaside resort. The Cesme resort was for the locals yet here we would find accents from around the globe and prices to match. Fortunately, again, we had a fabulous resort, (selected by the one and only Rick) which tickled us pink when we finally saw our room view and the buffet dinner spread, which faces the open, ocean. Again, the rates were low season - WhoYaa! Our days here consisted of shopping (to go with the major theme of this trip:-), driving while trying to manage to not knick a scooter, pedestrian, cat or ancient piece of garbage, sun tanning, eating (lots of that) and reading. Though this is far more, beach-hopping than I normally do on my European vacations - as I am attracted to the history and crowds of people which only the city can satisfy - these 4 days were overwhemingly satisfying and relaxing. We now had about 5 more days, in the Greek islands to look forward too.
Our trip in Turkey, ended too soon (only 7-day stay). Turkey is an extraordinary country, that requires only the smallest sacrifice to enjoy. The people, sights, foods, shopping, all add up to a favorable and authentically memorable experience. Its unfortunate that the news makes this country out to be exactly the opposite of what it actually. I give this place my highest recommendation - so think about including it in your next European/Asian itinerary!
Till we meet in Greece!...

New adventures in Istanbul Turkey

Although the title of website doesnt apply anymore İ thought İ'd keep this site running for my current trip to Turkey & Greece. So if you can spare a few min - sıt back and enjoy the scene.

İ left Michigan along with Holly C, Paul C, & Rick for my most adventurous escape yet. Turkey is on the cusp of dıscovery, and has been for the last few decades, unfortunately it cant get out from under the shadow of the assumption that its located in the violent middle east and therefore is shunned by many travelers. Hopefully that will change sooner rather than later as it enters a new phase of its history and becomes a contender for the EU.
İstanbul has definately dispelled my predictions. I thought it was be chaotıc, rude and crımerıdden. As it turns out, İ feel safer here wıth my possesions than İ dıd in İtaly and the people are respectful of each other and foreigners (esp. women) They are also very kind. The first evening a hotel staff invited us to the terrace of our hotel so he could proudly show us the view and point out where we should go. We were grateful for that the next evening as he showed us the perfect pedestrian thoroughfare where the locals go to eat, shop, stroll and disco. İt was one of those lively streets you want to return to again and again.
Although one sees a lot of religious burkas, this city isnt as religious as it once was. It was declared a secular society in the 20's by the now, well regarded leader, Atatuck. The mosques were lovely though not as conservative as I'd have expected. I'm told that although the prayer prayer call is broadcast 5x a day throughout the city (starting at about 5am) but few attend the mosques to pray. Burkas of varing proportions are the norm, with the full cover, black look being rare.
The people here are exceptionally kınd and generous. I had an horrible experience while writing this blog. I connected the camera to upload some photos and thought İ knew what İ was doing (though all words were in turkish) and ended up erasing ALL my photos off the camera. İn panic İ asked the owner to see if he could find the photos on the computer, though he didnt speak english. No problem, he called up a friend who called up one of the workers in the downstairs shop who translated for me. They saw my nervous and upset state of being and offered tea to calm me down - the owner stressing me "not to worryé The photos were found on the computer and transferred.
There is so many varried sights, sounds, smells and noises here, that İstanbul deserves a good 5 days stay to experience them all. the Grand Bazaar, with over 4000 shops would take 2 days alone. İn one day, we raced thru 2 mosques, 1 palace (which contaıns partial skull and hand bone of John the Baptist), a cistern, and a few meals along with what is now my favorite - turkish apple tea.
Unfortunately with so much motion in play, its been hard to sit in one spot and write this blog. Tomorrow we travel by ferry to Rhodes, Greece and spend our remaining week simply relaxing and soaking in the searing sun and clear blue skies of the Greek islands.

There are so many unique observations to be shared that I wıll have to continue this portion later, when İ have more time. So stay tune..

"But, I don't want to go home..."

On the 11th of Aug. I reluctantly boarded a plane for my favorite and last city - Melbourne (voted the worlds most livable city by Conde Nast) Its a large, expanding city of shops, cafes, beaches, waterfront communities, marina, casinos, sprawling parks, trams, and bustling with commotion. It used to be that Australia was about 10 yrs behind from the US in pace and technology - that isn't that case any longer. Melbourne (not Sydney) is Australia's cultural, cuisine, and fashion capitol. My home for the weekend (aunt & uncle Pinkowski & cousin Gracie's place) would be the suburb of Endeavor Hills, apprx 30 min. SE from city.
I have heaps of family that originally emigrated from Poland to Oz in the mass immigration of the 1950's & 60's. My parents, along with my brother, first immigrated to Australia, stayed on for 2 yrs, before moving to Buffalo (i know, crazy) and then onto Detroit. This is why I have no other relatives in the States, as they are all either in Poland or Aussie land. I am always happy, therefore, to be traveling to Melbourne & Oz, as its my opportunity to connect with the very large, Michalski lineage clan and catch up on everyone's life, be fussed over (to an unimaginable degree:-, as only the polish can do) and practise my rusty polish.
The first weekend was my cousin, Adam's 50th b'day party, so the house, was full, crazy and packed to the brim with more food than mouths to eat. It was a terrific time to see a lot of my relies all at once. My cousin Krissy, made a surprise visit from Vancouver - and yes, he was very surprised. For the Pinkowski clan, it was a one of those magical times, where all the kids, their kids, were together - under one roof.
Many moons ago, I took a Sabbatical from Collleg/Uni and spent about 9 months in this fabulous city, - one of the most memorable and enjoyable times of my life. This time around, I got to catch up with a few friends I meet during that time.
After recoving from the weekend blitz, I headed to downtown Melbourne the first chance I got. This is probably the craziest city to drive in as you have cars, mingled with trams and people wandering about. When one needs to make a left hand turn (which I didn't dare try this time around), you actually have to get in the far left lane, staying left of all the traffic and then, when the lite is red, only then can you turn rite. (Hopefully you wont get sideswiped by a tram either) I headed over to fashionable Toorak/Chapel streets and just had a ball.
My time here was spent socializing, circumventing round-abouts, sipping tea (as this was winter here) and mulling around in the kitchen, just chatting away and enjoying one another's company. The entertaining element of all this was definitely the fussing factor. In the Polish culture, as I'm certain is true of many other cultures, outside of America, its an art of unimaginable portion to fuss over people and their needs. Its probably a lost art here in the States, where everyone is expected to be independent to a greater degree - we know where the kitchen is and our ability to assert ourselves is never a problem. In this culture, however, they need to ask you many times over if you need this or that and if you say 'no' then they need to ask again a few more times, just to be certain you heard and understood the question. Its really delightful, the extent to which some will go to make certain that every single one of your 'potential' needs are meet. And feeding you - making sure you are good and full is their language for 'I care for and love you'. Although I am not the ‘fuss over type’ - it was nice, though, to revel in it, if only for a time.
On the 21st of August, I said my final good-byes and boarded a plane for my country of origin – cheerless, though enriched beyond any measure. I was grateful for this extended break and to have experienced something so unique as traveling solo in the in the outback of Australia and having had so many delightful characters, to engage and keep me company. Of course I’m officially broke now - though I have say a ‘big’ thank you to my parents for providing some of the funds for this trip - without which, I wouldn’t have had the budget to go for 2, whole, fabulous months. To the generousity/kindness of so many friends and strangers in Australia (and LA), I also extend a huge thank you, as I may never be able to repay you in kind.
The author, Liz Gilbert writes "Travel is the greatest true love of my life. It's worth whatever sacrifice or cost". This is my sentiment likewise. The constant change in scenery, the opportunity to discover with the eyes, ears, taste buds - something new, unique and different from every-day common place – is the real joy. The memories alone will fill many boring, snowy, cold, afternoons here in Michigan. This current Australian experience, of journeying, leaves me fully invigorated and geared to well, ...travel some more :). Stay tuned to this page, as I continue my blogging during my Turkey/Greece trip which begins Sept. 1 thru 17th. (I know, I know, what your thinking, but hey, someone has to fill those plans as they are not going to fly empty, you know) Thank you for your interest in this blog. I hope it was entertaining and motivated you to get out and travel!!!!
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http://www.ytravelc.com/LizyMBlogSite.htm

Cricky!

Initially, I was hesitant about travelling to the Queensland coast area, as I thought I would get bored being here. This area is similar to Florida in temperatures, small towns and has the scenery of N. Carolina. Brisbane, the main city, and its neighbourhoods, is the fastest growing area in Australia. Everyone relocates here for the weather and the slower pace of life. My cousin Adam, his wife Sheryl and their son Jesse live about 40 min. N of Brisbane, near the Sunshine Coast and here was to be my lovely home base for the next 2 weeks.
As I was saying, I was certain I would get bored residing in a place surrounded by lushes mountains, singing parrots, clean air, and views of the surrounding landscapes (pic above) - w/ beach access only a short 20 min. drive away. Would this uber urbanite be able to adjust to such a utopia? At my cousin's, I given a big, comfortable room, with a heavenly bed (mind you I'd been sleeping on what seemed like cardboard in comparison prior to this.) The room caught the morning sun, and had direct access to a lovely tweak deck & pool area. At times, the atmosphere felt like a resort in Fiji. (minus the men in skirts)
The two weeks were filled to the brim with activities, (window) shopping and dinner invites so the time passed without hesitation. I was reunited with former friends I hadn't seen or spoken to in many, many moons. One family, the Pratts (JoAnn, Peter, Dan & Nat) and I became fast friends as they lived only a few doors down. The 8 of us got together often to break bread & socialize. Sheryl & I spent many enjoyable moments amusing ourselves in boutique shops, cafe's and driving the lovely, windy roads of Queensland.The first Sunday there, was to be my first (and last) mtn climbing excursion. I was warned this would be hard, though I was confident these new lungs could handle it. What Adam failed to mention was the part where one needed to scale the side of the mtn - inserting feet/hands into crevices pulling oneselve up, type-of-climb. The kids basically ran up, as kids do, the adults took their time but made it as well,.... then there was me, pondering what to do, as I was afraid of heights (at this time). The angle of the climb meant if I leaned to far back whilst going up, I would literally roll down and off the mtn. Adam was a saint and both encouraged and literally helped me scale it. I was doing well, until hesitated and caught site of the splat factor. After that I was done,...spent - but too afraid to retreat. Somehow, w/Adam's aid, I was able to get back to level ground and wait for the rest of the crew. Because of the angle, the way down meant sliding on your rear and some pants, well, didn't make the climb in tact.
I had a unique opportunity one day, when I went out to buy some of the best yogurt this world produces at a local store (true). As I pulled up, I saw a few people roaming around, and about 4 black suits off to the side. As I got closer, I thought the one man looked familiar, so I says to one onlooker "hey, is that your PM". When he responded in the affirmative, I did what the other 4 people were doing, I lined up to shake the PM's hand. (John Howard). The strange aspect of this meeting, is that the PM, didn't seem very.., well,... important. I mean, he had this, regular- joe, type presence about him, which is why I didn't think he was anyone important. I mean even his bodyguards were positioned off to the side, as if they weren't too concerned about his safely. But then I thought about it and concluded that he, in fact, reflects the people. The Aussie's are a laid back, casual type people who are, as the PM, very approachable.Did I mention that I was neighbours with Mr & Mrs. Crikey - Steve Irwin zoo. His face was on billboards everywhere.
I was able to catch up with another set of old acquaintances, (Eve & Mark) which in turn, became friends by the time we parted. They live in the Gold Coast area, which is about 1hr south of Brisbane and is the playground of the Australians. This is the Ft. Lauderdale/Miami of Australia. It was a real pleasure to be invited to so many homes for dinner and over night and witness the unique family dynamic of each, whilst at the same time, feeling so welcomed and accepted. Again, the highlight will be the various people I was able to interact and connect with.In the end, the answer was a resounding 'no' - surprising to me, I didn't get board and because of the near perfect sunny weather, the local, the many interesting villages, views and people I meet, I didn't be bored or tired of this rural utopia.

Ayers Rock/Uluru

Sunburnt country..

Well the adventure continues. I finally landed in what is dubbed, Red Center - the place everyone goes to view the, big, red, rock called Ayers Rock (or its PC name, Uluru). I started off in the dinky, dusky, unappealing town of Alice Springs. When I arrived, I couldn't believe that I had booked into this city for 3-nites. Was I nuts! - what on earth was I supposed to do here for 3-nites/3-days. After the first evening, I walked from my hostel, a quaint, unusual set of buildings, about 10-min. walk to the center - which they call Todd's Mall on the Todd River. Of course, the wide bridge, which covers the wide river bed, doesn't hold any river in it, so its a bit of a conundrum.
Fortunately, the weather was warm, so it had one redeeming quality upon arrival. At the hostel, there was a small TV room, which I ended up for the evening. Again, b/c of the size of the hostel, it was more easier to met and chat with the local hostilities. The first evening, I was introduced to a few guys that just arrived and were solicitors for the WWF (no, not that WWF, but the World Wildlife Fund and Docs w/o Borders) Companies hire on these people to collect funds for their charities and this group of 6 (4 guys/2 gals) was settled into Alice for 2 weeks. We became fast friends and somehow, with the evenings, watching videos and chatting away in the kitchen, my time passed by quicker than I thought. I think it was just plain nice to connect with a few, select, individuals and get to know them more than just superficially. By the 3rd day there, I was sort of attached to them and it was, well, a bit hard to leave. Alas, I had to continue on my trek, so thanks (Jimmy, Alex, Mark & Paolo) for keeping me thoroughly entertained with your British/Ozzie humour.
On the 26th, my hired car and I drove to Kings Canyon (a smaller version of our Canyon). It was about a 500 km, trek through the outback of Oz. I started out, fairly late (12pm) and thought I would have plenty of time before sunset to arrive. The stop at the Camel farm and ride, delayed me further. I was told by scores of pp not to travel by nite, b/c of the kangaroos and the vastness of nothing in between. B/C of the lack of good signs and landmarks, (think Montana) at one pt, I overshot my exit by 100 km (which meant 200km return). Now you have to understand there is about 1 exit for every 100km, so the probability of this goof was not great. (Though singing along w/ the Ipod, could have contributed) So, I found myself, chasing the sun, (literally) and blazing a trail. When I caught sight of a kangaroo, waving to me on the side of the road, I quickly slowed down to a crawl and somehow, made it through the dark desert to my comfortable room.
The next day it was a speed sightseeing mission. I saw the Canyon, drove another 3 hrs to the Olgas and arrived in time to witness the famous sunset over Ayers Rock. Like the Grand Canyon, it’s huge and it’s definitely impressive. I can now add Ayers Rock, to my ‘been there, done that’ list. Next on the menu, Steve Irwin country & Brisbane, Queensland.

Cast of characters

When I travel, I feel like I'm in the largest classroom in the world, and each person I meet is a teacher, of sorts, to me. Its not until I meet others, and find out the endless possibilities of professions, thoughts, traditions, approaches to life, that I am truly astounded at all the possibilities. Mark Twain put it most succently when he stated the awesome power of travel and how it educates. "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness, and many of our people need it sorely on these accounts. Broad, wholesome, charitable views of men and things cannot be acquired by vegetating in one little corner of the earth all one's lifetime."
The greatest delight I've encountered on this jaunt has been the opportunity to meet and interact with people from, well,... everywhere. Its like I'm in the middle of my own novel with all these cast of characters, continuously being introduced. Let me introduce you to just a few of the strangers I met downUnder:
Andrew: the fair skinned, mild mannered hotel staff who took me out to dinner and he became my text message buddy. A patriotic, and passionate man when it comes to his country of Zimbabwa. Unfortunately he had to emigrate to Oz, because, as he said in his words ' its unsafe there as they are getting rid of the white people' - Tara: the red-headed, well-liked, Irish girl - one of 6 gals on my 10-day camping trip. Genuine and personable we always had a range of topics to discuss, (especially boys) as the other 4 gals were too jaded and cynical to contemplate that topic.- Paul: my pedestrian companion in Broome. He had one of the more interesting jobs of creating dirt rds in the isolation of the outback roads using large machinery. He recounted how they had to live off the land, (killing kangaroos,etc) and avoiding poisonous snakes, as this job meant that they were hundreds of km from civilization for weeks at a time. Paul was moving to Indonesian and wanted to make sure I knew the address of the 40ft yacht he'd be living on there, just in case I wanted to try my hand at sailing. - Deborah: the very amiable, soft-spoken girl I meet in Broome hostel. Her whole life was spent in Cannes, France. She described herself as having a 'charmed life' and this lenthy travel/work journey to Oz/Thailand was, for her, a way to find out 'how the rest of the world lived'. Her ability to adapt to the less, than, suitable arrangements (coming from a villa in France, to a 6 share small dorm room) was impressive. East Indian British guy (we'll call him Bob). He became a fast friend, whilst I was stuck in Ayers Rock airport for the day. His approach, though unconventional and forward, intrigued me. He introduced me to his wife and kids, and then proceeded to spend his time, addressing my 'life issues' on love, life etc. Formality was obviously not his strong suit. By the end of our day and subsequent flight together, his one son asked him 'so dad, whose your new best friend? Carolyn: the outgoing, generous and social post transplantee, I met online and was finally able to meet face to face. She also suffers from CF and is 12 yrs post transplant - the longest survivor I know personally. We spent a memorable evening together, eating, sharing our stories and socializing with her friends. It was a delight to meet an individual so content and full of life, knowing how much she had endure. Then there were the 4 guys I meet in Alice Springs at the hostel I was staying at. These 'Boyz of the UN' (pic)as I've dubbed them, made my stay in the sad city of Alice Spring actually enjoyable. More about them later .
Strangers are so easy to meet here,whether locals or from abroad. (you'll find a lot of Brits here) They will not only give you their time and attention, but sometimes offer even more. Like Sandra, my gregarious, friendly seat mate on the plane, who seemed to have the gift of setting people at ease and keeping them engaged. She was an accountant for a wine making co. - so I got a brief lesson in that topic. In the middle of our making dinner plans (when I return back to Melbourne) she suggested that when Gracie and I visit her in the Yarra Valley (the wine growing region of Melbourne) that we would be welcome to stay with her at her home. You gotta love the Australians for their ability to extend themselves, beyond the norm. Its almost like the caution of potential danger lurking around every corner, hasn't caught on as it has in the States and people are expected to be decent and kind. I hope this aspect of this country (and New Zealand) never changes.

Rest for the weary

What a wonderful change that first night in Broome was, compared, to the bed wrappings I had to endure the last 9 nites. My heart leaped for joy,when I arrived (classic case of adversity breeding appreciation) My room, at this big, hostel (think health club meets Motel 8), was a 6 person share, so there were 6 of us girls sharing a rather small space. It’s an interesting culture, this hostelling crowd. All ages, professions, nationalities coming together to co-exist under one roof, and the level of respect is still maintained. Most people even leave their valuables in the room, ..a very trusting nature for some, but of course, not for me. I come from the 'hood,' (ok, not 8-mile hood, but still was the hood) and my nature, isn't up for changing in this department. I had my camera, PDA, Ipod, and documents with me at all times - in the kitchen, tv room, toilet, shower,...
Broome, is the newest and most talked about travel destination in Australia. Its located at the tip of Western Oz, can get quiet hot in summer (40 cell) has a major pearl industry and one of the grandest stretch of beaches you will see anywhere. Unfortunately, the beach is wasted on me, as I neither swim in the ocean or tan - it was a wonderful place to have a cup of choc and read and write, however. I spent much of my time walking to/from the quaint town, they call China town, chatting with locals here/there, and just letting the days pass quietly. I met this delightful gal from Cannes, France and we spent a few hrs philosophizing about life (fav. pastime of mine) Isn’t it like life, to wait until the last moment. She, Deb, had been in my room since I arrived but with the comings/goings, we didn't finally converse until that last evening. That was a shame, as it would have been more enjoyable to have taken someone along to my cafe house trips.
I will say that all this travelling solo has done splendid things for my right and left brains. I now write often and have a greater interest in reading. TV is either inaccessible or with the 3 public and may I addlame channels they have here, it doesn't motivate me to watch, (unlike back home in the states). I'm also learning a foreign language called 'aussie outback'. A few words here for example are: (oz=americancano):fresh=cold, cozzie=bathing suite, dunnie=outhouse, icy-pole=popsicle, rellie=family relative, chewie=gum, 'yieaaa,nahhh,yieaaa' (fav.reply)
After 3 warm, refreshing days, I dusted the red earth off (and there was plenty of that, as the Western Oz outback is laden with iron ore rich red soil, their greatest export) and headed back to Perth, my 2nd fav. city (after Melbourne). This city has San Diego weather and an active enough city centre, not to induce boredom in this yank. I spent a few nights here, retracing old steps. I stayed at the Witch’s hat again, as I was aching to have my old quarters back, and settle in to a smaller, quainter hostel. For me, it seems far easier to meet others in these smaller spaces, than in the larger hostel. Then I was off to middle of Australia, the Red Center. the most isolating, driest place in Oz. I had 3 nites booked here and already I was wondering what on earth, I was going to do with all that time…