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On Our Way
After much planning and e-mails flying back and forth, we were on our way, to Teesside Airport, on what was going to be a 'Journey of a Lifetime',to visit my son Dominic and his fiance Katherine in Australia.It was only when we were about to check in, I realised my trusty camcorder, was sitting snugly at home.My daughter Melanie, made a mad dash back up the A66 and I was reunited with it, just before we went to the gate.Who says well planned holidays go smoothly?
After a comfortable flight to Amsterdam we arrived at the ultramodern Skiepol Airport where we dashed from one terminal to another to check in for our flight to Kuala Lumpur albeit on the modern travelator.
The flight being a scheduled flight meant all meals and drinks were free but the flight time, was ten hours.Wear compression socks, move around the cabin, we were warned but if you are in a window seat, it's not that easy but we managed passing the time, watching video's, eating endless meals and numerous drinks. |  |
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Kuala Lumpur
On arriving in Kuala Lumpur (this being the first time, we have traveled so far).My partner Jess and I, were greeted at the arrivals hall, by a beautiful Malaysian girl, who welcomed us to Kuala Lumpur and hoped we enjoy our stay.Our taxi was waiting, to whisk us off to the Swiss Cottage Hotel, which was an hours drive.First impression was of a modern City of Skyscrapers.The Hotel was an ultramodern four star, on fifteen floors.The uniformed porter took our luggage, while we checked in.The staff were very friendly and welcoming.A free security locker was provided, where you could only access it with a member of staff using her key before you inserted your key.
We were reluctant to explore the City the first evening so decided to stay in the Hotel, have a meal and wander into the cabaret room where a trio were performing.We ordered drinks and sat towards the front.During the interval we chatted to the lady singer, who introduced herself as Datta
with the two lads, being Ali and Si.They were a very versatile group and asked for requests, playing all sorts from the Beatles to Harry Belafonte's Calypso style.
Next morning after breakfast, we wanted to go to the Pratonas Towers, reputedly the second highest buildings in the World, after a building in Taiwan.
We hailed a taxi outside and that was when we were introduced to Germi.He suggested we hire him all day, for one hundred Ringits(£14)and he would take us to all the sights and wait while we toured and took photo's.We agreed and our first stop, was indeed the Towers but the ticketing system was complicated, for although there is no charge, visitors need to queue at seven am, for the afternoon visit and two pm for next morning. |  |
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The Caves
| Our next port of call was the Bam Caves.These can only be accessed, by climbing about 500 steps and with it being hot and humid, the climb could only be done, at a slow pace and with drinking plenty of water, but it was worth it.The cave is a Religous Shrine, with decorative statues, placed around the cave.There was also an Altar where pilgrims could pray, which was very decorative.The top of the cave was open to the sky and natural spring water flows from the top, so you had to be careful not to get wet.Another attraction was the monkeys, who lived in the cave and were fed by the visitors. |  |
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The Shrine
 | | This shows the Shrine inside the cave |
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View Over Kuala Lumpur
 | | This photo was taken at the top of the steps, leading into the caves but there were many more steps ahead. (a lift is being installed) |
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More Statues
 | | These were in crevices in the rock face |
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Feeding Time
 | | These monkeys live in the cave and visitors feed them, but are warned they bite. |
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The Tour Continues
After a cool drink we were glad of being back in the air-conditioned taxi.
Our next stop was to watch pewtar being fashioned into all sorts of items, for the tourist trade.The workers were all women wearing their veils.In the shop attached to the factory, we were surprised how reasonable the price of the finished items were.After a great deal of browsing, we came away with a few mommento's
Next stop took us by surprise, in that Germi wanted to take his wife for lunch, so he said he would take us to his house.The house turned out to be in a shanty town and his house consisted of tin sheeting, somehow stuck together.Germi was a very proud man, because he owned the house, hired his taxi and does not owe anybody anything.The authorities, are trying to bulldoze the whole area and move the families into purpose built flats, nearby but as he said,he was reluctant to pay the high rents.These houses are situated just a few hundred yards from the ultramodern skyscrapers.
Next stop, was to the Telecommunication Tower but the queue was long and it was hot and humid.We were advised to come back when it is dark to get a better view of the city.Germi took us to a beautiful park, where we enjoyed an icecream before he dropped us back to our hotel and with a handshake, he bid us farewell.
After a meal in a Chinese Restaurant and a couple of pints of Tiger beer, we made our way to the Telecommunication Tower.At the top of the Tower were guides, wearing the traditional Malaysian costumes, which were very colourful.The city was spread out before us. The Pratonas Towers were very prominent, as were other Skyscrapers.
We returned to our hotel for a few drinks and we cought up with the trio again, who had a drink with us at the interval.Our minds however were on our next stage of our journey, that of flying to Sydney next day.
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Telecommunication Tower at Night
 | | Every fifteen minutes the top sparkles like a roman candle |
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Destination Sydney
 | | After a comfortable seven hour flight, where the hostesses wore the traditional Malaysian costume, we finely landed at Sydney Airport.After collecting our luggage, panic set in, when we could not find our entry visa.The cases were opened and franticly searched but to no avail.It was only after speaking with a friendly Custom Officer, that we were told the papers we were looking for, were only a receipt for payment and the visa was stored on computer, against our names.After a shake of the hand we were welcomed to Australia and wished a happy stay.Dominic and Kath were waiting in the arrivals hall and after hugs and kisses,(it was great to see them) we set off in their car, through the City to their home in Rushcutters Bay.We had our first glimpse of the famous Sydney Harbour Bridge, something we would become familiar with, over the next three weeks. |
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Sydney Opera House
 | | Another famous landmark is the Sydney Opera House.An ultra modern design that people living in Sydney are very proud.Here we see the Opera House at night. |
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Opera House
 | | The Opera House,a focal point for many tourists |
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Rushcutters Bay
| Sydney has many things to offer, which includes many coves, beaches and bays,one being Rushcutters Bay, where Dominic and Kath live, in a very modern three storey town house.This is situated, in a very private terrace.including a swimming pool and BBQ area.About two hundred yards away, is Rushcutters Park and beyond, is Rushcutters Bay Marina with all the yahts moored.The Yaht Club was worth a visit because after signing in as a guest, the meals and drinks were very reasonable.We were introduced to Jen and Rob their flat mates who made us welcome and were to prove very good company.Kath's sister Sarah was also visiting and as I had met her before, it was nice to see her again.Dominic and Kath had set their stall out, to give us a holiday we would not forget and on the first full day, we set off on a ten mile walk.This is the quite famous Split to Manley coastal walk.It hugs the coast and is very well organised, with steps up and down, in the right places. It is very popular with visitors.We encounted plenty of large lizards, sitting on boulders in the sunshine. |  |
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The City
| Sydney is a City of Skyscrapers, where like most City's, has it's rush hour but because of the climate, many office workers, walk or cycle into work.Their lunch break is taken in the many parks in the City.Because of the English influence some familiar street names crop up.Oxford St is a main street,Elizebeth St is another, as is the main park, being Hyde Park.The main shopping centre boasts a Harrod type shop, in David Jones, where expensive items are sold.With Sydney being a multi cultural City, snack bars and fast food outlets, sit beside Sushi bars, where uncooked fish is enjoyed, Japanese style.Famous Hotels tower over the park as in London.The ANZAC War Memorial, is a focal point in Hyde Park.As in England, they drive on the right and there are plenty of crossing points.As in most cities now, Sydney boasts a Telecommunication Tower and from the top, one can see that Sydney, is a thriving port, as well as a City, with ferry boats taking passengers to various points, sailing alongside massive car ferries, bringing in brand new cars.They also have shops where everything is sold off at rockbottom prices, which we found interesting.We would catch a bus into the City for $2.50 about £1 and wander round most days.Sydney also boasts a very fine Roman Catholic Cathedral in St Mary's where the Cardinal preaches.We would attend Solumn High Mass here on Christmas Day. |  |
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Candle Lit Carol Concert
One of the parks in Sydney is The Domain and it was here we went to a Carol Concert, hosted by Jason Donavan.This was a free concert and attracted thousands, both from Sydney and tourists.The St John's Ambulance were selling candles and it is normal there, to bring your rugs, chairs, drinks and nibbles and sit where you can squeaze in.When the show started, the lights were dimmed and candles were lit.It was an amazing sight, to see thousands of candles being waved in the air, as traditional Carols rang out over the park.It was very emotional. |
A Trip to the Theatre
Dominic and Kath, for our Christmas present, booked two seats at the Theatre, to see The Lion King.Every musical I have seen, in the West End or Manchester, have unusual special effects to draw the crowds, and Lion King is no exception.We had brilliant seats and settled down to enjoy, what turned out to be a first class show.The main artists, took centre stage and sang songs made famous by Elton John.During these songs, the aisles were filled with all sorts of jungle animals, made up with artists dressed as these animals, from enormous elephants, to giraffes and zebras, who made their way from the back of the Theatre, to the stage.The dancing and singing was superb and artists dressed as African natives, followed the animals onto the stage.A truly great night. |
Christmas Day
Christmas Day, dawned dull and cloudy and after a breakfast of cereal and toast, we set out, for ten thirty Mass at St Mary's Cathedral, in Sydney.Sceptics will say, the Catholic Religion, as we know it,is dead and buried, but on the number at Mass on this day, nothing could be further from the truth.St Mary's reminds me of York Minster, Westminster Cathedral, or Westminster Abbey, it was jammed packed, with people standing in the aisles.The choir started singing traditional Carols, before the official procession.This procession was very impressive when altarboys, led over forty Priests down the aisle, followed by the Cardinal.What followed was a Solumn High Mass, lasting the best part of two hours.The Cathedral is separated in the form of the Cross and we were in the centre section.When it came to Holy Communion ,we had two ushers in our section and at the prayer before Communion, I left my seat and stood with the ushers.A Chinese Priest walked by us, to the very back of the Cathedral then another Priest,came past and he went further back, then another Priest came and give Communion, where I was stood.The whole Mass was a revelation to me, although I have been to a Solumn Mass before, the Liteny as the choir sang it, brought back memories,of the old Cathedral in Middlesbrough.I can only hazard a guess, what my partner Jess made of it all, her being non Catholic, but I think she enjoyed the occasion,
After Mass, we made our way back to Rushcutters Bay and bacon sandwiches, which went down well.We were introduced to Dominic and Kath's friends, Janine and Morgan and Dr Rob and his wife Mary,Dr Rob was a student with Dominic at Sheffield University and is now an Anaesthetist in a Sydney Hospital.These together with Jen and Rob and Dom and Kath, were to prove fantastic hosts, for the rest of the day.We made our way in two cars, down to a nearby beach, loaded to the gills with every conceivable item required, to have a great time.As luck would have it, we managed to get a gazibo, on a lawned area, after a Chinese family, were just leaving. A portable barbeque, was set up and in no time, fresh meat and kebabs, were sizzling away.The table in the gazibo, was soon groaning with food and drink.After loads of drink and food was consumed, the nets went up, for badminton and the bats and shuttlecocks appeared, from out of someone's bag and the game was on.After a competative game, where nobody knew who won, a game of volleyball was started, with the required ball, materialising, out of someone else bag and this turned out to be very funny.Then a game of boules was started, where everyone took a turn, to see who could get nearest the jack, which, after a few drinks, proved difficult.
Katherine meanwhile, while cutting a piece of steak for the barbeque, cut her hand badly, with a sharp steak knife.It seemed very funny, with her holding her hand aloft, to stem the flow of blood but we were dashing, here there and everywhere, to find some dressing for her wound.I managed to obtain some butterfly stitches, from the lifeguards on the beach and we applied those, which seemed to do the trick.
Janine had the brilliant idea, that everyone should go to the waters edge and as one, charge into the breakers.One by one they chickened out, leaving Jess and I, Janine, Rob and Morgan to do the charge.Dom and Kath meanwhile were filming the episode.Going into the breakers, I found was nothing like a splodge in the sea at Redcar, far from it, these breakers were very powerful and could knock you off your feet, if you weren't careful but we were in stitches, when we came out and so ended a perfect day with superb company.All the parafanalia was carted to a nearby bus stop.The party was far from over as we tucked into the leftovers, but this time in the more relaxed atmosphere, of Dominic's kitchen.
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Whe weren't alone
| How people head for the beach on Christmas Day, although it is cloudy and quite chilly. |  |
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Byron Bay
Boxing Day dawned bright and sunny and after a hearty breakfast, that somehow eleviated, a thick head, we were on our way to the Airport, to catch a flight to a beautiful resort of Byron Bay, approx. 500 mile up the coast, near the Gold Coast.After an hours flight, we landed with a bump in Byron Bay.We hired a car and soon we were on our way, to a small town nearby called Bangalow.
The guest house turned out to be a beautiful single story building, where each room had it's own varranda and the breakfasts were gourmet meals in themselves.A choice of starter, plus a full English Breakfast, with tea or coffee on offer, or scrambled eggs with salmon, the list was endless and our hosts were looking after our every need.The Riverview boasted a platipus in the river, but it was very elusive.One perculiar event, took place every night, at eight o clock, this is when the tree frogs, started their ritual,high in the trees, of calling to one another.They certainly made themselves heard, but it lasted exactly one hour, then they were quiet.Dominic and Kath had a cottage in the grounds, which had everything you need to be independant, except for breakfast in the main dinning area. We would be fascinated by the large spiders, making their webs in the foliage outside the guest rooms.
Byron Bay is idealic for a restful vacation, but boasts a coastline, where surfers can enjoy the cut and thrust of the breakers.Its not without it's dangers, as we found out, when we visited the Lighthouse.
We'ed seen the Lighthouse in the distance and decided to walk to it.When we got to the Lighthouse, there were barriers, preventing a fall to the rocks below.We noticed the car park attendant,going over the barrier and talk into her mobile. Being curious, we asked what was happening.The car park attendant, pointed to three lads, who were in the water, just treading water and one young lad on the rocks below.These were surfers, who had been separated from their boards and were drifting with the tide.The Emergency services were called and they came, claxons blaring and blue lights flashing and parked up, the very steep hill, leading to the Lighthouse.These were paramedics and mountain rescue teams.As we watched, the advice given to the three in the water, was to relax and the tide would take them to the beach, around the Lighthouse Head.The lad on the rocks, was a different matter, as the rescue teams started to set up their absailing gear. As far as the surfers were concerned, this is exactly what happened and they were taken around the point and landed on the beach.Just at that, a helicopter came into view and made many passes, past the lad on the rocks.They were in communication with the rescue squad and left it to them, who hauled the lad up from the rocks embarrassed, but none the worst for his ordeal.Unfortunately, I did not bring my camcorder with me that day, because the battery was showing, as not to hold a charge, for any length of time.
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Dolphins Swimming Off Byron Bay
 | | Dolphins swimming off Byron Bay not far from surfers |
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Byron Beach
 | | The beautiful beach at Byron Bay |
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Dancers
 | | Once a week Bangalow holds a market, which is very colourful.As part of this there is a music area with dancing and music to draw the crowds.The dancers in their flowing dresses, invite the crowd to dance with them and try their hand at playing the instruments. |
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Blistered Feet
Australia in the Summer can be very hot but on our trip to Byron Bay beach,I found it comfortable rather than too hot.I was tempted to walk alongside the breakers and took my socks off, something I would regret later.Next day we went on a walk and returning to the guest house I took my socks off to reveal very large blisters all over both feet.They were so large, photo's were taken of them (you would not want to see them).I made an appointment with a local Doctor, who lanced them and had them bandaged up for $50AU dollars.I went next day after breakfast for a rebandage for another $41AU dollars and this is how it went, but it did not stop me enjoying a brilliant time in Byron Bay. |
Back To Sydney and New Yers Eve
The Australians know how to party and tonight, New Years Eve, was the biggest party of the year.After arriving back late afternoon having said fairwell to our hosts in Byron Bay, food and drink for the evening, was our priority.Soon the barbeque was up and running as Dominic and Kath's guests started to arrive at five thirty pm.At nine pm the childrens firework display started on the Harbour Bridge.We could see the rockets and hear the thunderclaps but were too far away to appreciate the spactacle.We made our way (drinks and nibbles in tow),to a park not very far from the Bridge and settled down to await the 'Magic Hour'.
As the hour approached the park became jammed packed and we had great difficulty in keeping our places.After the countdown, the ships sirens sounded out over the Harbour and the Harbour Bridge, with the illuminated Opera House in our foreground, became the focal point, where the fireworks were spectacular. This was only a taster, of what was to come.Later, a much longer display, was staged, with the Australian National Anthem being played throughout.We found it very emotional and as we were in such good company, it turned out to be very special, something you would never forget. |  |
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Sydney Wildlife
Although Sydney would not be unique, it's wildlife are something to see.In the Batonic Gardens near the Opera House, large bats rest in the trees high above your head, upside down.Some appear to be asleep but others are moving about and chattering.At dusk, the bats fly to other parks in a flock, which is a sight to see.Large stork type birds with great long beaks scrounge around in the grassed area looking for worms.Cockatoos are very common and seem at ease with the human population.
BAT HIGH IN THE TREE |  |
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The Long Beak
 | | The stork like bird searching for worms |
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Cockatoo
 | | These birds were very common |
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The Blue Mountains
The Blue Mountain Area is about a hundred mile from Sydney and the area is indeed shrouded in a blue hue because of the millions of eucalyptus trees in the forests giving off fumes.
It is a beautiful area where visitors are encouraged to walk up and around the Mountains with cable cars and railways there to help.Precarious walkways have been established on precipieces high above the valley floor (no good if you don't like heights.)Waterfalls cascade to the valley floor where a staircase will take you down to the pool hundreds of feet below.It is a walkers paradise.Various look out posts are provided and one can see for miles around across the Mountain range.Mountain Outcrops and peaks that stand out are given names.One is the Three Sisters which are very impressive.
THE THREE SISTERS |  |
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Waterfall
 | | Waterfalls cascade into the Valley below |
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Scary View
 | | Dominic and Katherine pictured admiring the view. |
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We built the Bridge
 | | Anyone from Teesside who visits Sydney must be very proud that this famous landmark, was designed and built in Middlesbrough.The people of Sydney are also very proud of this magnificent bridge.In the thirties cars were few and far between but the Bridge designers planned for the future and incorporated enough lanes to cater for the future.The bridge also boasts a railline a cycle way and a pedestrian walkway.They now have a History of the Bridge in one of the Towers.A special tour of the Bridge,called the 'Bridge Walk',is organised where the walkers are kitted out in protective clothing and fitted with a lifeline,which is attached to a runner.They then walk over the top of the Bridge, from one side to the other.The road over the Bridge is part of a toll road and on occasions,a peculiar thing happens.Five lanes of traffic lead into the City during the morning rush hour, with two lanes going out.During the evening rush hour, the roles are reversed and the main traffic go the other way.Very confusing.Sydney also has perculiar parking rules.Most parking spaces are at an angle to the road and notices are posted telling you how to park,ie-nose in or nose out and traffic wardens hand out on the spot fines for cars, parked the wrong way. |
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Made In Middlesbrough
 | | Here we see the plaque which is prominent on the side of the Bridge telling us the Bridge was designed and built by Dorman Long and Company Middlesbrough in 1934 |
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Palm Beach
 | | This Bay, not far from Sydney is a beautiful part of the Coastline.On a hilltop to the South of the Bay was a very unusual garden.This garden was set out for reflection, including headstones with quotations from the Bible.There was a table and bench with a Bible resting on the table.The view across the Bay with it's sandy beach spread out below us, was spectacular.In the far distance to the North was a lighthouse perched on top of a hill.The warm sea breeze made it an ideal spot for relaxation.Surrounding this spot were luxurious Villas with fantastic views over the Bay. |
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Another View
 | | The beautiful Palm Beach |
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Sydney Zoo
 | Like most Cities Sydney boasts a first class Zoo.Access to the Zoo is unusual because most visitors arrive by Ferry.
The Zoo is set on a hillside and the best way to see everything we found was to take a cable car to the top and walk down.All sorts of exotic animals were on show from enormous lizards to chimpazees to aligators to zebras.From wallabies and kangaroos, to giraffes where, for a small price children could feed them carrots.From lions and tigers and elephants to tiny angel fish in the Aquarium. |
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Yellow Crested Bird
 | | This beautiful bird was photographed in a free flying area of the Zoo. |
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Wild Flowers of Sydney
 | | On hillsides around Sydney wild flowers, because of the climate flourish. |
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Wild Flower
 | | Another example |
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Sunset Over Sydney
 | | From our vantage point high over the City. in a revolving restaurant the sunset was spectacular. |
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Another View
 | | High above the City streets |
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Back to Blighty
Soon it was time to bid fairwell to our hosts and Australia and after an emotional parting with Dominic and Kath, we flew to Kuala Lumpa.This unfortunately was only a refueling stop and we were soon on our way to Amsterdam.After a five hour wait in Amsterdam we boarded a flight to Teesside and it's wintery weather.We were home after a true 'Journey of a Lifetime', to share our experiences with family and friends. |
The Moody Med
The very thought of the Mediterranian conjures up thoughts of sun,sand and sangria but that unfortunately is not always the case,as we found out on a holiday to Menorca.The wind blew,the rain lashed down with thunder and lightning.In two weeks we got five days of sunshine.The views from our Hotel were spectacular and I hope you like the photo's taken from the balcony.The six little boats moored in the lagoon were completely destroyed and all the owners could do was stand and watch in horror.
In Peril |  |
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Calla'n Porter
 | | Calla'n Porter Beach |
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The Beauty of the Med
| Sunset |  |
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