This trip was with my daughter, in search of purchasing a Villa in Bali, with a lot to learn along the way!
9th of September 2022
After a Jetstar flight cancellation the day before, luckily I got another the next day which left Melbourne at 8.00am. So the night before Peter and I stayed at a hotel near the airport, so I could be there three hours before the flight left. The check in line up was at least an hour wait, so lucky to get to the airport early with the wait times.
The flight was quite comical, I had a front row seat, with a spare seat in the middle. How could it not be a good flight??? Behind me what I thought was a cute little boy, as we got into the sky I heard him say “this is absolutely amazing!” Had me feeling warm and fussy to him, until he continually kicked the back of my seat. Then opposite a guy with a booming voice, met his new friends in the seat beside him. He then did not shut up for the whole flight, his whole life history and his amazing recipes shared! No silencing earphones worked, as when we landed I asked the guy sitting beside me had his Bose earphones worked, he laughed and said no!
It was an ahhhh moment to get off the plane, and be greeted by Dewa the Bali Fast track guy. First line up to pay the Visa, quite long and I’m thinking why did I pay for this service! Until we hit the line up for immigration, which was huge. Dewa took me through the disabled line, which was quick. He grabbed my bag for me and took me outside to find a driver, and off to meet Kirstie in Canggu. Traffic to get there out of control. In the seven years since I’ve been back here, it’s grown. So many motorcycles dodging and weaving through the traffic. It’s not like it used to be with families on motor bikes anymore.
Finally after a few texts on the way I met up with Kirstie at our Villa in Canggu, which is gorgeous. A two bedroom and bathroom, pool and outdoor kitchen area Villa. As I was starving after the flight, Kirstie ordered Uber eats (GoJek) delivered in a cane woven cute package. Just what I was craving the real deal, Nasi Gorang, Yummy
After catching up and unpacking, we went for a walk around the area. Kirstie wanted to go to a gallery, so off we went. To the Medium Gallery for the RiZRIZRIZZ, “We need romance in our madness” exhibition.
Funny thing here is yesterday I had lunch with Juppy, Kerry and Jo. Juppy had been teasing me of the lack of art work I had in our home. Juppy had a party years ago with the art theme of erotica. Peter had liked a painting and wanted to buy it, as Juppy would he remembered and stirred me about not buying the erotic art work! So funny the next day I step into this gallery full of it. I had to take photos to send to Juppy, as he would see the funny side of the moment. It’s always places and things that remind you of the times in your life. Then it gets me the way we take for granted at the time the parties or times with friends, family that in a moment will never be again. The last few years have made me much more appreciative of fun time’s with special people in my life! Do Stuff!
Next! I needed a loo badly, so over the road we had a drink at Milk and Madu a nice cafe, with a great kids playground. Note to self to come back here with Nick and Jess. A bit more walking up the road, occasionally going into a shop or two. We went into Milu a restaurant Kirstie had been to previously. It was a picture perfect setting, overlooking green rice fields, we had a cocktail to celebrate being here together!
10th of September 2022
This morning Kirstie had a booking at the coolest place on the beach in Canggu, Times. We scored great seats on the front row of the cafe to people watch, and dogs too! As one dog in front of us peed on a poor girls bean bag on the beach in front of us. Next door to us some European verrrry Cool cats smoking (urrr) owned the dog and didn’t give a shit!
We had a really nice breakfast of Turkish eggs and fruit with a coconut whip. The surf today here was very good and super high tide. The cafe is beside The Lawn, highly recommend!
Next time for a Massage at Spring Spa in Canggu. Lucky for us two people cancelled their couples massage, so in we went on the spot. This place is very popular, as there was quite a few people waiting. It is very classy for Bali, and our massage was Wonderful!
More shopping, walking to a dead end thanks to the ol google bitch! Then I did it! I joined the crazy tourist club, that get on the back of a motor bike in a dress, no helmet with a random driver! Kirstie was proud of the crazy ol lady on a motorbike weaving through heavy traffic, down hills with my eyes closed telling myself how stupid I am! Pure Joy! Back to our villa, with two motorcycle drivers getting a laugh for the day, as I was swearing quite madly all the way Holy Fuck!
We spent a few hours chilling by our private pool, which was super relaxing. Maday our lovely maid called over to do her thing. We had a fun chat with her and checked out her cool aqua coloured retro motorcycle. Now I’m hooked on motorcycle envy!
We went off for a walk up the crazy busy street dodging traffic, as the roads are so narrow. Picked up some groceries then made our way to the cutest tea house come organic grocery/bakery store. We went up stairs to the cafe and had a lovely cup of tea in a glass tiny cup. Very nice, Bokashi
Back to the Villa to chill for a while and get showered and changed for dinner tonight. Sort a taxi out to Casa Tua, once Dandelion. Our welcome crew gorgeous little bunny’s munching on the offerings out the front of the most charming restaurant. The moment you pull up here, it’s old school Bali as I remember thirty years ago. The waiters wear traditional Balinese clothes and are super friendly, wide smiles! Love love love it!!!!
We really enjoyed the food, Balinese vegetable dishes and a delicious Tuna with sambal really nice! 3 cocktails, entrees, mains and desert for two $60 happy days! The toilet here is worth a visit, next level cray cray. Two crazy mannequins in scary masks and crazy stuff on the walls, so much going on in there it’s nightmare material. Of course everyone comes out, grabbing a friend to go back and go into selfie heaven. I sent Kirstie in for a look, she came out a little in disbelief!
11th of September 2022 Sunday
La Brisa Beach Club Market
This morning Kirstie made plans for us to go to La Brisa beach club, to a market there. So we ordered a driver Ketut via the Balinese Uber app. He’s now become our best buddy and won’t leave us! Which is fine as he waited for us to do the market and have breakfast! This market is once again so dam pretty and boho! More of the cool gang, one older lady in particular stood out. She would of been in her eighties, in a Fluro outfit bright pink lipstick and a full on tan. She actually looked like she was living her very best life! There was a sitting area in the middle of the food stalls, one beside us had oysters and champagne.
We walked through the market to the La Brisa beach club and scored a seat, by the beach to watch the world go by. Today I had my first Expresso martini for breakfast, delicious in the most beautiful crystal cocktail glass! Think I might start my day more often with one more often!
Back in the car with our driver to Mynx Hair & Beauty Emporium, which is very pretty. Pedicure and Manicure ✅ off the Bali must do list!
Last stop with our driver Secret Spot Canggu a delicious vegan cafe for lunch. Before walking back to our Villa to chill out! Gojek delivery of Mee Gorang for dinner in the Villa!
12th of September 2022
This morning we walked a different direction towards the beach. Another vegan cafe, Good Mantra Canggu for breakfast, before our walk to the beach. The tide today was very high, and not really that swim-able. We settled on some day beds from Yula a lovely Indonesian ladies business, so off course I chatted with her. Mostly about Covid and how hard it was for the Balinese to survive the pandemic, with only a thirty dollar once off gift from the government! Don’t know how true this is, but did make me feel for them.
We then went and found a blow up lilo to buy and take back to our Villa to chill out and enjoy the serenity. Reading our books and Kirstie doing her research into property buying in Bali.
As it’s so nice chilling here at our Villa, we had our trusty Nasi Gorang again delivered by mr Gojek. Loving this service here in Bali!
13th of September 2022
Today was a hectic, fun day! First breakfast at our favourite little spot Bokashi, the tea house near us. Great coffee and fresh tasting produce.
After breakfast our fabulous driver Ketut – Bonchu picked us up for the drive to Seseh, for our property search. It’s about a half an hour or so drive from Canggu. Seseh has just began building new Villas around the town. It’s very peaceful here, not much traffic and not many shops at all. We got down here an hour before meeting the Estate agent, to get a feel for the area. Our first stop was the beach, which has volcanic black sand here. There was a path there which we went for a walk on, it’s a nice walk around the beach front. While we where walking our driver got talking to a local, telling him we where looking at a villa to buy. The guy happens to know everyone here and off we follow him to look at a villa. This villa was gorgeous, unfortunately out of Kirsties budget. So he thinks of some other Villas being built, and off we go again to check out a building site, this one was going to be nice but a bit far from the beach.
We stopped next at The General Store, in Seseh to meet Ayr the estate agent. The store is new and very stylish, as over the road new stores owned by the same person. It has a Indonesian restaurant, Pizza shop and a shared workspace room, very popular here in Bali.
So onwards to the Villa Kirstie has her heart set on. We checked that out which is in a great spot minutes from the beach and near the shops. Our driver is out the front with the local guy finding another development for us to look at later. Onwards to check out two other villas the same price range, far from this area. They where horrible, I actually gave a high five to the agent for actually being able to sell one. Back on the road back to Seseh to look at the next development our driver found. Another one going to be lovely, but way off the budget and with a super scary land owner! Another funny situation we where in. As it was lunch time the workers where scatted around the site asleep on the floors of bathrooms, walk in robes ect! And dealing with this developer!
By now we need a break to sit and think, Kirstie found a very hip cafe in the middle of no where. It overlooks rice fields, with views to the sea. Very eclectic kind of vibe!
Lunch done, we went off to check out accommodation near Jess and Nicks wedding venue. Bali Beach Glamping, our driver had never seen anything like them, his reaction was priceless. We had a tour of the accommodation options. The glam tents are really nice!
Tanah Lot was our last stop for the day. Peter and I came here about thirty years ago. As today we came here before sunset it was not very busy yet, so it was nice to come back here with Kirstie.
Back to our Villa to chill out before dinner. Kirstie straight in the pool, the best part of having a private Villa. Tonight a short walk down the street to another Vegan cafe for tea, very tasty again. Kirstie does the research, unfortunately just like me! I’m feeling very converted to the Vegan way here, everything tastes so good and healthy. The watermelon on my plate was pickled to taste like tuna, and I have to say it’s good!
14th of September 2022
Woken early as I’m still on Melbourne time, so I’ve caught up on my blog/diary. Kirstie is not feeling well, and has an appointment with someone regarding her next venture. Which she had to cancel, due to Bali Belly! Kirstie had the Gojek App delivery service, drop off some medication for herself. So I’ve walked down the street, checked out a few shops and found some hydration water for Kirstie. Walked up the street again to cancel a spa treatment appointment for Kirstie, then found another over the road for me called K by Karima. Here I had a really good neck and shoulder massage for half an hour. Back to check on the patient before a treatment, which was a little painful and as per usual I get talking to the girl treating me. And a hard luck story, of a broken heart. She found another woman’s hair in his Jocks! I think I must have some kind of tell me your problems kinda face! Or get me in to leave a big tip! Tonight as Kirstie was really suffering from Bali Belly, we ordered in take away and watched Little Women, on Netflix. Loved it!
15th of September 2022
This morning I was up early to pack and walk down the crazy busy street, to get some cash out and grab a coffee from a cute little cafe Lumo. Back to the Villa and Kirstie is really feeling poorly. So we found a doctor to call into on the way to meet the ferry taxi service. Lucky for her she saw a doctor straight away and had an injection to stop the diarrhoea. He did want to give her an iv of fluids, but she is going to try and keep up the fluids. Terrible day for her to transfer by boat to Nusa Lembongan. The boat company was called “Rocky” and that’s exactly what we got all the way over to the island. What a ride, I was saying affirmations the whole way, I am Brave, I am strong and I am f n crazy!!!!! The waves where huge, I had my eyes shut half the time and the other half a Balinese up the front I think maybe was on the spectrum was looking my way, with the craziest face ever!
Arriving on the island again was really rough getting off and my bag fell, smashing glass in it, very embarrassing. Off the boat collecting our bags the rain came bucketing down. Finding a driver for a truck ride to our villa on the opposite side of the island.
We arrived at the gorgeous Sandy Bay Shacks, so shabby chic! The detail in these little Villas is so perfect, Indonesian vibe. With an outside bathroom which I love, and details in the decor, so nice.
By this stage I was starving, so we walked two minutes down the road to the Sandy Bay Beach club, this also is really nice looking into a blue bay in front.
Lunch alone here, as Kirstie was feeling terrible, she went back to our little shack.
Kirstie had made a booking at the Nusa Lembongan Spring Spa, overlooking the Main bay. So another lift back over the other side. Walking into this day spa is wow, next level stunning! As it’s open air, to views across bay, with tranquil music playing and the scent of flowers. Here we both had a Opaplex hair treatment with a neck and shoulder massage. Good lord, it was sooooo good! One of the best blow dries I’ve ever had too! The view while getting your massage here is absolutely postcard picture perfect. Obviously we came out floating, especially while waiting for Kirstie I had my second Gee & Tee ( that’s what they call a G&T here) at the Spring Spa, for the afternoon watching the harbour views.
After our spa session we walked down the path to the Playgrounds surf break, lots of nice beach bars and villas, with a stunning little white sand bay.
Our next stop to try to see a sunset was at The Deck. Happy hour here watching the harbour activity, sipping a delicious cocktail or two! (Me only – Kirsties tummy not quite up to alcohol)
Back to our little Sandy Bay Shack by 7pm, and in bed! Big day today, especially for one girl feeling like crap! Hope tomorrow she feels a whole lot better! This island is just to pretty to feel unwell!
16th of September 2022
After Kirstie having a really bad night, due to her Bali Belly, throwing up half the night. Today is a quiet one! Breakfast included here, so delivered to the room, nice for me not so for Kirst. 9:30am yoga class here, taken by an amazingly fit, flexible Argentinian girl. This girl was absolutely lovely, the way she spoke, took the class making sure everyone was comfortable. ✅loved it, doing my Eat Pray Love week.
We then went a few minutes down the road to the Sandy Bay beach club for the day, spent by the pool.
After our Sandy Bay Club relax, get better day, we headed back to our little Villa. Showered and changed for a drive to Mushroom bay, for a look and for Kirstie to have a swim in the sea. Of course a stop for happy hour drinks overlooking the bay.
Our driver was waiting and then took us to Cloudland for the sunset. Not a great one here tonight but worth the trip out here, a few fireworks going off in the distance. We had dinner here tonight. And back to the Villa by 7:30pm!
17th of September 2022
Unfortunately it’s our last morning here, so up early for a walk to Devils Tears. For Bali it’s a really nice walking path around this area. On to Dreambeach for a morning cup of tea overlooking the beach, very nice!
Back to out little oasis at Sandy Bay for breakfast on the rooftop, once again really nice continental breakfast included. I have to say tropical fruit cut up for you, is extra special!
We where picked up once again in the back of a truck, with a nice English couple here in Bali for a wedding. An hour early for the boat trip back, we filled in the time at a nicer cafe overlooking the bay. Hoping and praying for a smoother ride back across the bay. 🙏
Our next move was to a surf spot, Bingin Beach staying at the Inn Possible Cliff house. From the fast boat, included in the ”Rocky” ticket was a transfer to our hotel. Here we spent a half an hour or so waiting for the hotel guys to carry our bags down the steep descent. Once again on their heads! I didn’t get quite how steep it actually was down and then across the beach and back up the hill to our villa. It’s a workout and a half!
Checked in and off down the beach for lunch at the cool cat cafe on the beach, Kelly’s ! Here a funny thing happened, Kirstie was being seen to a table when the girl I had let pass me, pushed forward and jumped in the seat Kirstie was being lead to, so rude! So upstairs we went with a front row seat to the views of surfers out the front.
We spent the rest of the afternoon on the beach. Then later at our hotel I put my handbag and beach bag down on the bench at the hostel, when a cheeky monkey came and grabbed my bag. I screamed at it, it dropped it, lucky I grabbed it back when some German backpackers came out from their room, wondering what the hell all the noise was! 🐒🙉🙈🙊
Tonight Kirstie made a booking for dinner at the resort called Mu in Bingin, the restaurant was Abracadabra. (Back up the stairs – workout!) The moment you walked in, wow the views of the sunset and a yacht parked right in the middle of the bay, stunning! My favourite Restaurant of the holiday! We had fresh Mahi Mahi, Prawns and Calamari cooked on the bbq, with Veggies from the in-house garden, delicious!
the waitress bought back to show us! No we refrained and did not indulge!
And now for the decent down to Bingin Beach in the dark! And here is the reason I did not drink tonight! It’s tricky at my age or physical condition? Made it back without an attack of the local monkeys, as I was told they sleeping! Thank God 🙏🙏
18th of September 2022
This morning I woke early, due to leaving the curtains open, to try to see the sunrise, no luck. But still beautiful views outside the window to the early morning surfers out the front. The sound of the surf all night was pretty cool too. Downstairs to the communal area for breakfast. If only they said how long we needed to wait, we could of had a swim and come back! Anyway it was worth the wait, coffee was pretty good too!
After breakfast a walk up the beach, then find the perfect spot to chill for the day! People watching for me, mesmerised by the change of bather style in the last few years. (Sounding very old) so many people posing, it was fun to watch! Especially one girl madly doing handstands by the water edge. We had a few dips in the sea here, which was so refreshing, perfect temperature for me! Also we had our Bali fix, buying some brackets off the girls on the beach, and paying for the privilege of an umbrella and beanbags $10 which was worth it!
Tonight we went to Alila resort for dinner at the restaurant called Cire. The resort is definitely stunning upon entering into the front entrance. Here we asked if we could use a shower, the guy on reception was so accommodating. I was ushered into the day spa area and allowed to use the shower, to change for dinner! Kirstie and I had a good giggle, at the situation and how lovely the resort spa bathroom was!
As Kirstie had been here the week before, she took me on a tour of the wedding venue area. Here we bumped into a little green snake! It’s really beautiful here, and can imagine how it would be set up for a wedding.
Next we shared a cocktail, a blue cacao with truffle oil ect, served in a shell dish. It looked incredible on the cocktail menu, but a little disappointed in real life!
We had a lovely last night special dinner. Fish for me and prawns for Kirstie. Funny story here, the prawns came out on a very hot dish. The waiter told us to sit back, then he poured a shot of something alcoholic on the prawns. The plate erupted in flames 🔥 which nearly caught my face on fire, I yelled SHIT! The rest of the people dinning would of certainly heard! Kirstie laughing at the way the waiter told us to get back, lost to me in the language barrier! Can’t take me anywhere! A really lovely last evening of our girls trip in Bali! Once again another Gojek driver back to our hostel at Bingin Beach, to the scary descent, a good reason not to drink to much! No monkeys 🐒
19th of September 2022
Unfortunately the time has come to go home to reality! Last night I drove Kirstie crazy with my snoring! And this morning the Monkeys have come down out of the Jungle, we have visitors we’ve been warned of!
Kirstie booked my mate Ketut (Bonchu) to pick me up for the airport at 8:30am. Trying to get a guy to carry the case up the stairs is challenging, you have to be very patient!
So Bonchu Cool picked us up up the top of the stairs on Bingin at 9am. Kirstie came with me to nearby Ullawatu for Coffee and a quick breakfast. Here we said our goodbyes, as her flight was later in the day. Onwards to the airport for me, lucky I got there early as the line up for Jetstar was very long! Through to customs more of a wait, then onto DutyFree for some last minute buys.
The flight home was kind of funny as the airline crew thought I was with the guy beside me, my age but with a very young Balinese girl. In the end after a few times we laughed and called each other my wife, husband!
In the end of the Villa saga, Kirstie made an offer on the Seseh villa, $15 grand less than asking price, the offer got accepted quickly. Big But, no planning permit, so we sort advice and pulled out of the deal! Learnt a lot along the way and will keep on looking!
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apps.apple.com/au/app/wordpress/id335703880
He turned out to be such a nice young guy, so on his recommendation we went to church! 
Another drink at stop 2 pub
Saturday weather not great so we headed off for a drive to Strathmerton Cactus Country, thanks to some instagram inspiration. We have driven past this place for years and never called in. A bit of fun walking around in a big sombrero hat acting like typical tourists.
A few friends on the way out of Cactus country to say goodbye!
The BBQ King for the night and our set up at Cobram.
On our way home we stopped off at Benalla for lunch and a Street art tour, photo comp with each other, pretty impressive too.
Kelpie one for John D, nice way to make some ugly flats look ok!
I mentioned to the girls I had read there would be peacocks at the Gorge and that I was looking forward to seeing them. So the next person walking from the opposite direction Jo asked-
Coffee and cake at the very pretty cafe, surrounded by hydrangeas, then off for a walk up to the lookout. Over the suspension bridge, 
and into the car park where Carolyn met us and took us for a tour around her home town. We checked out all the beautiful homes and picked up a few supplies, before she dropped us off to our hotel to get ready for dinner.
Morning tea and then back on the road to the blue lake for a quick photo stop
Next stop Eddystone point for our first look at The Bay of fires, Lunch then a walk up to the lighthouse and a short walk to the beach.
Morning tea as on fruit after, followed by another walk to Stumpy’s bay.
very special and a little sad as the trip was coming to an end. So many great people we have chatted to, and hopefully we will see again.
We left Morisset Showgrounds at 6am on the dot, ready to tackle the Sydney traffic yay 😁 which went pretty well. Our breakfast stop a little favorite of mine, as Kirstie and I stopped here in May, Bowral. Out of the car and Omg it’s cold around here, and we look completely ridiculous in our shorts and thongs while everyone else is rigged up! 
A tulip 🌷 festival in town and the church beside was holding a craft show, which we where dragged off the street by an old bloke. All good as we bought some home made goodies. 
Back on the road to my next favorite Hume hwy stop, Jugiong. Hanging out to have lunch at the pub and show Peter how nice it is! 
Far out! CLOSED MONDAYS WTF 😆😆😆😆 was hanging out for this, so disappointed 😢, last visit the cafe next door was closed, at least this time that was opened. Still walked around the pub gardens as I love them so much. 
The cafe was to busy, so we parked the van over on the Showgrounds beside the river and made toasted sandwiches 🥪 in the van with the best cup of tea on the trip. 
Back on the road to Albury where we stayed the car park at The Ettamogah pub and had dinner there. Early night again so we can leave early and make our way through Melbourne before peak hour traffic.
Woke this morning in Scott’s Head early, to nice a morning not to go for a walk before leaving. Love this mosaic picnic table, thinking of Sally 
Walked up to the lookout for our last whale watch for this trip, then picked up a take away coffee from our new little favourite cafe. 
Scott’s Head set up just before we packed up by 9am. Left Scott’s Head and stopped into South West Rocks for a quick look for another time. 
Very pretty town, Mum called and told us to check out Trial Bay Goal, so off we went. Defiantly would love to come back and camp here. 
Next stop for lunch in Port Macquarie at The Beach house pub, with Lou and Knuckels for a quick catch up. 
Then back on the road for a few hours til we made it to Morisset Showgrounds. Twenty five bucks to stay the night with power, dinner in the van and straight to bed for an early start tomorrow morning.
Peter had a morning swim at Scott’s Head before cooking breakfast at the camp kitchen. Not long after breakfast Pete Lawson picked us up for firstly a drive along the beach, as it was such a beautiful morning very 🍀 lucky.
Next a trip out to see Pete’s farm at Valla, and to fix the new Hotwater unit for his first camping guests. As Pete L had what must of been a very big hangover, all he went out to go was put batteries in the new unit. He took size D batteries out, felt that the whole must of only taken C size, so a 15 minute drive back out to Valla beach general store to pick some up. 
Back to the farm 15 min, then remembers he needed a gas bottle! So leaves Peter and I to fix the Hotwater unit while he goes back again to get one. Peter does everything to get the Hotwater unit working, C batteries are not working so we get down on the ground and try the D batteries, funny they fit so I’ve lost it a tad and called him a fkn idiot, we All laughed as it was just so stupid due to his hang over. Checked out the stunning glam tent ⛺️ site with a surprise 🐍! Peter told me they don’t hang around mowed grass, ah not true! Back in Scott’s Head now around 2:30pm we left at 9, time for our last beach session before leaving tomorrow. We walked up the headland and saw a few whales 🐳 right out. And a walk around the town to check out all the beautiful mosaics .
We left Byron Bay this morning by 7am, take away coffee’s from Beaches cafe beside the caravan park. Drive by Broken Head 
First stop Lennox Head, up the top and a bit of a walk to the view spot. 
Back in the car as we have taken the scenic route, 
the first of the big random things, a big prawn 🍤 outside Bunnings Ballinga.
Our Neigbour at Scott’s Head caravan park yay🤪
Up early, breakfast in the Van before packing up early due to rain on the forecast later in the day. Take away coffee from the cafe Beaches next door to the Caravan Park. 
Back to the Caravan Park and off to Watego beach for our own little happy hour, very happy place as the dolphins pass by! 🐬
Michael Doherty came by for a beer and a chat, nice to see him happy and doing well.
As it was pretty windy today we had breakfast in the van and had a coffee at Beach Cafe beside the park, then headed out for a drive. Arrived in Bangalow just after 9am, had a look around the town shops and lovely old buildings. 
Didn’t spend any money here as it’s pretty over the top around here, much to Peters delight😜 
Next stop Newbry by 12pm for our lunch booking at Harvest, recommended by Lisa and Roger. Beautiful lunch the restaurant is very lay back cool, food absolutely top class, best of all the Devine spritz of ever had, made with rosemary sugar syrup, prosecco and aperol with a slice of lemon and rosemary to die for. Peter had the Marlin, I had prawns with a cabbage,anchovie, and prosciutto side dish, yum😘
As we had arrived the girl on the reception let us know we’ve arrived right on time for a much needed Meditation class, so in we went! Both of us enjoyed the rest on the floor with ten complete strangers snoring together, well worth the rest.A blessing by the Tibetan bells on the grass, then a speedy look around the crystals and gardens pretty special, but been a tad spoilt lately with the Buchart gardens I should not compare. Determined to find Federal off we went around 4:30pm by now finally found and like wow lucky we made it here to a one general store and a closed cafe yay! 
Not so much of a Natural High for Peter! 😢
Much improved mood today, got up and went for the most beautiful walk as the Whales and dolphins where in full force today. We left around 8am and didn’t get back to the van until around 1pm. 
The walk along the beach and track to the lighthouse passing Wategos Beach was just glorious this morning. Up at the lighthouse we watched so many groups of whales and dolphins, defiantly in need of some binoculars next time. Met a super nice local lady that lives on the beach at Byron up at the lighthouse. Sat on the beach front at Wategos Beach with our takeaway coffees from the Rae’s cool music (I downloaded) cart, and watched the morning pass, more whales, surfers and family’s having fun. 
Next time!
Stunning scenery walking back to the Caravan Park. 
Check out the chooks Peters quote ( their heads are down so theirs arses don’t get the wind up them) 
This poor pig was very stuck in the mud!
Very busy eating!
Our set up here
Gold Coast to Byron Bay, left Nobby Beach Caravan Park right on 10am for Reflections Caravan Park in Byron Bay. Due to the fing Sat Nav Biatch who sent us up SHit creek, Actually she Friken sent us up to the Byron Bay lighthouse, slightly tricky with a 21 foot Caravan also highly embarrassing as we missed the Caravan Park turnoff. Then to top it off when we got to the Caravan Park, bad news the lovely view site I had booked months before, ah sorry putting units on it do suffer another more tricky challenge to get into the new site they have for us. By now I’m ready to come direct home, complete melt down until Peter did what ever he could to calm me down! I needed some retail therapy so he went along for it, luckily for him we only got one hour parking! Back at the park calmed down more with a wine or two! Not my best day🤪😂
Packed up the night before and left Agnes Water at 6:30am, for our first stop at Childers again as it such a lovely old town. Breakfast at the same cafe beside the post office and then a quick look around the town. Peter did the museum tour of the back packers that burnt down several years ago, while I did a bit of shopping and called into the old pharmacy museum. 
We walked over to a bar called Dock and met up with Kevin Brown and his lovely partner Carla. Our biggest night as we ended in a trendy bar, Peter drinking smoked whiskey 🥃 cocktails, very cool music.
Packed up the van and called into Kevin and Carla’s for breakfast, they where a tad worse for wear. Their home has just been renovated on the water in Mooloolaba and very nice. 
The view from Kevin and Carla’s.
Great new Gin bar at Marketta.
Ended up walking though another estate off the beach then up the street. Browsed the shops and back to the caravan park. Coffee ☕️ with Lisa Rog and Peter at the park cafe. Had a few laughs with the girls from the coffee shop, Milly and Heidi over Instagram learning. 
After the walk it was to late for lunch at 1770 pub, so we went back to Codie’s near the caravan park for a late lunch. 
Happy hour with Lisa and Roger, said our good byes then headed out for tea at our favourite Garden Cafe. Lights out in Agnes again 8:30🤨
The Cabins at the Caravan Park, Phyllis wants to build up here.
Read the cafe’s magazine article on my idol Nigela Lawson. 
After lunch we went to the beach Roger and Lisa had a whale show in front of them, but no luck for us.
Then popped into the Garden cafe for a coffee and cake to die for a baked custard blueberry cake, I need to hunt down the recipe as the lady would not share it. 😞 
The first beach we walked down to was Workman’s Beach 
Tried to walk to the next beach via the rocks, a little to risky and bumped into a not so friendly snake which totally put me off going any further. Back on the track up the hill to Chinamans Beach headland – views
So after a fairly decent walk we where hanging for our long awaited coffee ☕️ at the Garden Cafe 
Could not Bloody Believe it’s Closed on a Saturday WTF!!!!☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️☹️
Was so looking forward to it nearly burst into tears, maybe a little dramatic. As we are looking a little disappointed a local lady pulled up in her car, as it’s in the middle of no where, asks us if we want a lift back into town, her healer dog is beside its self looking forward to a walk. So we piled into Dominic’s new bf’s car into the local coffee shop, thank you! X
And a bit of a walk before going down to the main beach, where Peter set up the paddle board and headed off.
From there we made our way to the 1770 Marina, to collapse and soak in the views. There happens to be a lady operating her hair dresser from a shed out the back,open to the view of the sea, pretty cool so Peter had a hair cut! 
A drive back to Agnes checking out all the new estates. Fantasizing over a life up here!
then back on the road for our stop for the night at Moree. Well what can I say, looked up wiki camps and checked into the Mehi River caravan park. First impression was shit let’s just lock ourselves in the van
, but a walk to the loo via the Bullshit Corner and soon made the experience a bit of fun. 
By the fire met to old blokes and they entertained us with their travel stories. Named us the in betweeners, and the Chardonnay set drink in the camp kitchens not by the fire! 😃😃
bumping into some ol bloke who as he said as he walked out of the shower with me giving him a look “ah shit is this the ladies I’m not awake just yet” he looked so shocked! 
The doors in the Sheila’s showers!
A bit of the art work sold at the pub.
Maybe I’ll just have to move to Wooroolin! 🤔
First drink at the Marina Bar with the wizards long lost brother, complete with purple top and Grey pigtail. Next the local pub 
and followed by a drink at the RSL club, three Sav Blanc’s and a forgetful ride back to the Caravan Park.
The other boat to show how close they came to the boat.
He makes his own Rainbows!
Peter is very very shabbie this morning, laying flat on his back to the very last second before checking out of The Union Club. Checked out at 11:30am had a walk around Victoria before a quick bite to eat at the famous Red Fish Blue 🐟 Fish on the pier.
Only the que was a mile long, so went and found the Tapa’s place a young girl told us about in Ucluelet. Followed by a quick drink in a very nice Irish bar, it’s really hot here today! Tad of retail therapy before a nap back at our hotel, as know it will be a big night.
We headed back to Zoe’s for the chia pudding and morning coffee, and a last look at a couple of shops, before heading off from Ucluelet. 
On the road by 9 to our first stop The Butchart Gardens, where we arrived on a very hot day, and reasonably quiet afternoon. 2:30pm – And it is absolutely incredible, the best garden we have both ever seen.
Relaxed State
A true Gentlemen’s Club stuck in the past, Grandpop would be in his element with the no denim rule!
There are benches in every viewing place possible on this trail, all dedicated to people. They are specifically to sit and spot the whales go by, so peaceful! 
I checked out the little market. Then both found a little gallery selling hand blown glass ornaments, bought a couple of pieces to remind us of this area.
How nice are the labels on these beer bottles! Then back into Ucluelet for our 5:30pm whale watching tour.
I’m a spunk I know, look great in a big red suit and a beanie! 
Our Airbnb to the side for two nights in Ucluelet.
The cheeses above looked so pretty, couldn’t not take a photo! 
Another stop along the way-
An unexpected stop along the way with a walk in a very special place!
A fire fighting plane in the distance as around this area is in high alert at the moment.
We are both enjoying stopping and learning a bit along the way, as it’s such a gorgeous sunny day and really nice drive. No more stopping til we get to Tofino now! 
Pretty peckish by now and as everyone knows I’m pretty well read before I get to most places and of course can’t miss the original Tacofino truck for lunch! But OMG the que- so sent Peter off to look at surf shop while I wait in line for quite a while. It was worth the wait for the experience, and the young hung over guy behind me had done the line up for the second time today, Peter also liked it- thank god!pp
MacKenzie Beach 
Chesterman Beach Tofino
Cox Bay last stop before finding our Airbnb in Uceluelet and then dinner at the Floathouse patio and grill a tad of a come down after this afternoons happy hour and Whistler! But still a fun experience 
And our last Canoe 🛶 around the lake before checking out. On our way out of town we called in to Sam’s job, met his work mates and the owner of the home he was working on. Did the mother thing dropped him his lunch and sadly said goodbye 👋 til October when his visa runs out. We are really feeling happy that we’ve seen Sam and Ana’s Whistler life, and now understand the reason so many Aussie kids want to be there. Whistler lifestyle is incredibly healthy as everyone is into some kind of activity, sking, bike riding, hiking, SUP boarding, canoeing ect ect. = We Loved Whistler and wished we could have two years here! Did not realize just how busy the ferry to Naniamo would be, pd off with myself for winging this one, as we waited three hours to get on a ferry. It worked out ok as you park the car then walk into Horseshoe Bay, to fill in time while waiting. We got the 5:45pm ferry arriving in Naniamo at 8:pm. The ferry ride is very picturesque, mountains and islands in the back drop. It’s going to be a really nice weekend weather wise, so all ferries have been booked out.
Plan in the morning is quickly have breakie and get out of here to the coast of Tofino. X good night 