I’m a little late writing this, but my blog on Australia would be incomplete without writing about my last destination, Cairns.

I took my last Greyhound bus from Townsville, which took just under 6 hours. The bus was quiet so I got a whole seat to myself…it’s the little things!

I arrived to Gilligan’s Hostel late on the 24th January ahead of my Great Barrier Reef Tour which departed early the next morning. Before I get into that, let me explain a little about Gilligans.

Gilligans was the main hostel in Cairns. I hadn’t realised at the time of booking, but this is basically the biggest party hostel in Australia. It is labelled as a ‘resort’ which may be a stretch, but it certainly was no ordinary hostel. Housing a swimming pool, 3 bars, an indoor beer hall, a night club, a restaurant and a gaming room spanning across four floors, it’s clear why this hostel is a firm favourite! However, that may depend on where your room is located, as many rooms were impossible to sleep in due to the loud music! Thankfully my room was on the opposite end of the building so I actually heard nothing. A big win!

I was also staying with my Fraser Island friends here, which was nice. Our last stop before we all parted ways for good!

The next morning I left for the Great Barrier Reef tour. I went with the company ‘Ocean Freedom’ and couldn’t recommend them enough. It was my first time snorkelling and I did two dives. It was really incredible being that far down in the sea, but I have to admit, I did think I would see more colour down there. Both in the marine life and in the corals. Clearly a great deal of damage has been done, but nonetheless, it was an incredible experience. The tour itself was great though, everyone had the chance to snorkel three or four times along with diving and going on a glass borrowed boat.

When we weren’t in the water, we were indulging in some really good food! There was even a cheese board, and you know how I feel about cheese boards!! 🤤

I also did an ‘Uncle Brian’s’ Waterfall

and rainforest tour in North Queensland which included numerous different stops.

Babinda Boulders:

Josephine Falls:

Mila Mila Falls:

and Lake Eacham:

We swam at each location and were also fed at each stop! One thing Aussies do well is feeding you on tours! It’s a never ending supply of food – always! We even stopped at a dairy farm for lunch would you believe!

My trip to Australia would not have been complete without seeing at least one kangaroo, so for my last day before returning to Sydney, I decided to go to Hartley’s Zoo.

I got my fix, and treated myself to a private room for my last night in Cairns.

And a fairwell French toast of course at ‘Caffiend’, a cafe I frequented when staying in Cairns!

I had one weekend left in Sydney before making the journey back to Ireland. I stayed with Helen and Liam for the weekend! I owe them big time.

My cousin Eamon took me to a very fancy steak restaurant in CBD called ‘Hurricanes Grill’. I hadn’t had a meal that good in a LONG time.

It was so good to see Eamon as I missed him when I was last in Sydney.

I took a quick trip out to Manly and bid fairwell to Hannah and David, (and Louis and Sheila of course)! The next time I see them will probably be at their Italian Wedding! 😍

I tried my first ‘Cinabon’. It didn’t disappoint!

And took one last trip to Bondi and Coogee beach.

By now, there was nothing left to do but to say goodbye to Helen and Liam, and head to the airport. Eamon gave me a lift and stopped by his new house on the way which was absolutely gorgeous!

I was pretty sad about leaving Australia. I had the best time there and would return in a heartbeat! It’s a really great place to live. However, once I got on the plane I was so excited to get home to see everyone!

The journey home was actually fine, with a short stopover on the way in Doha Airport which was absolutely insane!

They even had an ‘Oreo’ cafe, so I got a milkshake in honour of Edel!

As most of you know, my trip home was a flying visit as by now I have made it to my next continent.

Greetings from Colombia! 🇨🇴