Location photographer. Getting behind the scenes. Showing off the secret, and not so secret, treasures of the world.
Kualoa Ranch, Hawaii
A day at Kualoa Ranch. Beach hideaways, movie sets, famous sites…
With many tours to choose from, we spent the morning at the beach on Secret Island (a very tough gig).
Our Secret Island Beach Adventure is like the ultimate chill spot for a day—I seriously could have spent longer here. Think sandy shores, cool water sports, and beach games galore.
From kayaking and stand-up paddle-boarding and dominating table tennis to kicking back with a book in a hammock, swaying under those chill palm trees. Trust me. We were all happy.
We then headed back to the ranch for the afternoon.
The 2.5-hour JURASSIC ADVENTURE TOUR is worth considering if you're into movie history and adventure. The North Shore's good looks are also part of the package, with all the lush green mountains and views out to the ocean. Exactly like we see in the movies.
The tour takes you to iconic film spots in Kualoa, Hakipu’u, and Ka’a’awa Valleys, where they shot scenes from Jurassic Park and the newer Jurassic World films. It's pretty cool to see these locations up close, especially if you're a fan of the movies. But these aren’t the only movies filmed here - there have been so many!
First time cruising... hmm.
I didn’t think I’d like cruising. But gave it a go anyway. See what I think…
In my early twenties, I worked on an Italian cruise ship sailing from Venice through the Greek Islands. It was an experience I'm glad I had, but it didn't leave me wanting to go on cruise holidays. You see, when I travel, I like to feel like I'm discovering it on my own. I don't like feeling like a tourist. Unfortunately, when you are cruising, it can be hard to escape the people.
Fifteen years later I find myself booking a cruise holiday for my children and me to go on with friends. Clearly, cruising hasn't been on my radar. I was worried about the 'being stuck around lots of people' thing but wanted to give it a go.
And I was right. Stopping at tropical islands, I kept finding myself saying "Wow, look at this place. Imagine how beautiful it could be without all these people."
I always thought cruising could be a nice (and convenient) way to get a taster of a place, but I didn't feel this way. Eight hours wasn't long enough for me to explore and 'feel' the place, and having lots of people around that aren't usually there changes the vibe also.
Negatives of cruising:
Waiting and lining up for tables, getting on/off the ship.
If you try and eat healthily, food can become monotonous.
Plastic cups and melamine in main buffet dining room.
Lots of kids (on our ship at least).
Have to share your experience on an island with lots of other people swarming around.
Positives of cruising:
Kids have lots to do and if old enough can roam the ship by themselves
Seminars, massages, bingo, dancing, movies - lots of activities.
Adults only area at the back of the ship.
The balcony rooms are great for an escape - tranquil and beautiful watching the sunset as you cruise out of port each day.
Experience a few different places without having to pack/unpack.
Theatre performances each night.
The kids had a great time. They loved hanging out with friends, eating whatever they wanted (which stressed me out) and experiencing lots of things they don't do every day at home. Movies by the pool, mini-golf on the roof, waterslides, theatre shows and spending their money on arcade games and lollies without me knowing.
Would they like to cruise again? Of course. But would I book again? No. Cruising isn't for everyone. Some people love it; some people don't. But I'm glad I had the experience (for myself and the kids).
TigerAir, Airbnb, Uber... where is Qantas, Hilton and the taxis?
Travelling with new options. Taxi V Uber. Hotel V Airbnb. My experience.
The communal pool in the first Airbnb property in Southbank, Brisbane. A great area with BBQs, pool, spa, sauna and gym
Today I saw a post on Facebook, it went along the lines of... 20 years ago we were saying 'don't talk to strangers', 10 years ago we were saying 'don't meet someone from online alone' and now we are saying 'go find some random online and pay them to take you somewhere in their private car'.
It made me think about my recent trip.
I took my Mum and kids away. We went to Brisbane and Moreton Island. And I completely blew my Mum away with the use of Uber and Air BnB. Even TigerAir. Being more of a road trip and caravan traveller, she'd never heard of them.
Going to sleep with this view from FV by Peppers in Fortitude Valley
It used to be travel agents, hotel bookings, Qantas and taxi services. How things have changed. Now we can stay in peoples homes - whether it is a full-time holiday rental or a room in their home, use our phone to book a ride with someone who is using their own car to make money and book flights without the frills of yummy aeroplane food (haha) to cut costs.
It was the first trip where I have relied on mostly Airbnb and Uber. How did it go?
Well...
Uber works great. All the drivers I rode with were helpful, drove safely and got us where we needed to go on time. I like seeing where they are (even though that in itself can prove frustrating when they show up just around the corner but still take 5 minutes or longer to get to me), I can see a photo and find out about the driver before they arrive and at the end of the trip I can say thank you, goodbye and get out. No need to wait around for credit card payments.
Airbnb. It's hit and miss. I've had some great experiences with them - staying in some very cool Melbourne pads on previous trips. On this trip, I booked two apartments. The first was great - very good communication prior, during and after the stay, neat and clean and a nice vibe. The second wasn't so good - a lovely apartment but too dirty to stay in. I contacted the owner but her response was not to come clean (it seriously looked like it hadn't been cleaned for a few weeks with dust, mould, food bits, sticky stuff on the floor, soap on the shower floor) but to say that with what we paid she could not present the home 'impeccably clean'.
FV by Peppers, Fortitude Valley
Air BnB was very helpful. They communicated between myself and her and ended up giving me a refund. So, although I ended up having to book another apartment for that night at a higher cost - we had clean beds to sleep in and felt comfortable.
Would I use Air BnB again? Yes, I would. But I'd check reviews and communicate my standards a bit better before arrival. Booking through a hotel gives me more assuredness of some sort of cleanliness standards.
TigerAir performed well for us too. On time, friendly and, unlike previous trips, I was prepped for the bag weight checks at the gate (no more frantically layering of clothes). If only I had realised before standing in the boarding lineup in Brisbane that I had to go get my bags weighed and stickered first. After waiting for about 5 minutes another passenger told me. Oh well, we are all going to arrive in Adelaide at the same time, it doesn't matter what order we board.
Do I like the new way of travel? Yes, I like the options it gives. More choice. More convenience. And with more cost options, it opens up travel for more people. Or for people to travel more.
And I do believe that travel is the worlds best classroom. For all ages.
A little note from the world that never goes astray
Summer holidays...
Summer holidays. Where I expect sun and warm weather, but get rain and grey skies. Moreton Island and Tangalooma Resort is still fun.
When I booked an island holiday in Queensland, I just presumed it would be sunny and warm. After all, it was going to be October. And coming from Adelaide, even mid-twenties would be a treat.
So, grey skies, rain and 18 degrees was a bit of a shock. So much for the summer holiday to Tangalooma Resort on Moreton Island. Where are my relaxing afternoons lazing on the beach after touring around? Instead, we are scrambling around for umbrellas and ponchos and venturing about the resort when the rain subsides a little. We don't even get to see outside of the resort. Something that annoys me - I love to know where I am and go discovering when somewhere new.
But, we adapt. We grab the umbrellas and ponchos and wander. Ashton wades through puddles. Belle cartwheels across the lawn. They both build a fort with their umbrellas on the beach. They even get me in the pool once. Brr.
Reception has board games, we play a few games of pool, and visit the marine centre where we learn about marine life. I am shocked at how dolphins and sharks have been slaughtered. I never knew that sharks were caught for their fin and then chucked back in the sea to die.
I'd definitely like to re-visit with the sun and warm weather. Moreton Island looks magical, and the resort itself is a little haven of relaxation and chill.
Exploring close to home...
Exploring close to home - casual but fun.
Explore your backyard. We have all heard it. But I seem always to find more interest in exploring far away places. Wrong, isn't it? Especially since I love my backyard and champion its beauty whenever I can.
Well, this years October long weekend marked the fourth year in a row of holidaying at Port Elliot Caravan Park. After spending many summers there as a child and living in the neighbouring town of Victor Harbor for my teenage years - I finally decided to discover some new things.
Here are some of my fave places...
Beaches...
Instead of heading to Horseshoe Bay, we veered left and wandered along the Coast path to find ourselves on an untouched, semi-deserted beach. We spot a little (4-5ft) shark playing in the shallows. Watching for five minutes, we saw it twisting and turning before disappearing, only to reappear in another spot and repeat. Swim? Not today, thanks.
There are rocks to the right of the beach, at the headland, where a man is shark fishing. And there is a surf break called chicken run right there - which I'm told only breaks in a large swell. I do see some surfers, and the wave is nice. I wonder why it's called Chicken Run? Playing chicken with the sharks is my guess.
I continued walking up towards Middleton, on my left, is Bashams Beach, or as my dad likes to say, Lewis beach. He's re-named it after the land he owns just back from the shore - just not sure if anyone else knows. A man can dream.
Go further, and you hit Middleton, my fave surf spot. This long stretch of beach is popular for surfing but beware of rocks under the water level while swimming, bodyboarding or surfing.
Retro Vibe Cafe - a casual cafe decked out in, you guessed it, retro furniture and furnishings. It's near the train line and quieter than the main Victor Harbor to Goolwa drag. There's a kids corner too to keep the little ones entertained while you enjoy your coffee. A trip down memory lane is inevitable.
Too much indulgence? Bike ride through the backstreets and headland near the caravan park for a bit of exercise. Or if you are feeling more energetic, cycle the Encounter Bikeway that runs from Encounter Bay to Goolwa. It's 30km long, reasonably flat and well made. Do as much, or as little, as you like.
Of course, there is much more to do, but that is the beauty of the Fleurieu. You can do as little or as much as you like.
CLIENT SHOWCASE: King River Rafting
Kayaking on the Franklin River with King River Rafting - and the promo pics.
I hadn't thought of taking the kids kayaking before. I love adventures but presumed they would get bored after, hmm, 10 minutes.
They proved me wrong. This time I was happy to be wrong. And that doesn't happen often. :)
We were in Queenstown with King River Rafting. Paul normally takes people out white water rafting, but for kids aged five and seven, as you know, rafting is not really that appropriate. So he suggested a kayak up the Franklin River. He also liked the idea of getting some kids pics to promote that area of his biz.
Leaving Strahan early, I'd forgotten to pack spare clothes so was hoping we wouldn't get too wet. Oh well, I thought to myself, it's just kayaking (and worse case scenario, we can blast the heaters in the car when we get back). When Paul brought out wetsuits, booties and thermal layers for all of us I realised I had completely underestimated the experience and how cold we could get. Oops.
The kids looked ridiculously cute in the smallest adult gear we could find. Wetsuit legs rolled up like big cream puffs. Booties that flopped about like flippers. They stomped about with giggles.
The next clue to our adventure not being as leisurely as I thought hit me when we arrived at the river. I hauled a kayak over my head and plodded for ten minutes down the forest path to the river. Of course Paul asked if I was ok, but of course I answered, 'yep, no problems'. The kids had to carry a paddle each while I stepped one foot in front of the other, blinded by the kayak, hoping I wouldn't fall in the leech-infested ferns.
While Paul climbed in his and slid down the rock face to the water, I was a little more cautious. I shouldn't have worried, the blow-up kayaks are very stable and can handle just about anything, as I was soon to discover. Ashton jumped in and was paddling before I could push off the rocks.
We paddled for about five minutes. I'm sure I looked ridiculous... learning how to paddle straight using the paddle out one side only (not switching sides). The kayak nosing left then right up river, Paul had to come back and check in on me a few times. It was definitely a slow start.
Then we hit a rapid - with no water. Slimy rocks and branches lay strewn across the river. Hmm. Paul was all over it. He hopped out, hitched his canoe above his head and ran over the rocks to the next section of the river. Then he returned and did the same with our kayaks.
Meanwhile, I was desperate to find a non-slippery rock or branch to step on, and make sure the kids do the same (I don't think I found one). They loved it. I worried about them falling. Nothing unusual. But after doing this about five times up river, I was getting used to it. Then we had to do it all again on the way back. Workout? You bet. Fun? Definitely. Scenic? Given. It's truly stunning.
And... did the kids enjoy it? Absolutely. We took a risk, but because it was just us and Paul, and knew we could turn back at any time. But the kids just kept on going. They loved to 'help' paddle, lay down and watch the water float by, and grab hold of Paul's canoe to get a pull.
Their favourite bit? Clambering all over the wet rocks. Ashton also loved skimming rocks over the river surface - well, trying to.
My favourite part? Getting the hang of keeping the kayak straight while moving forward, using only one paddle. Winning!
Here are the pics I took...
NOTE: Definitely make sure you have a wet bag or housing for your camera - it will get wet.
Tasmania. Natural, wild, hypnotic, peaceful...
Tasmania. It really is a photographers paradise. I have taken 1000's of photos in under two weeks. And video. Argh. How am I going to get through editing all of them?
I've been in Tasmania for nearly two weeks now. Time has flown. We have done so much. I kinda feel rushed. Four weeks is nowhere near long enough to discover the surface of Tassie. But hey, we are having fun.
Here are some piccies so far... story behind them to come when I get some good internet (and time).
:)
Tasmania - here I come!
It's D Day! Tasmania, here I come. It's going to be full, it's going to be fun, it's going to be adventurous. New clients, new sights, new experiences. Yay.
Part of the Overland Track, Cradle Mountain, Tasmania
I'm heading south. Today I'm setting off for Tasmania. A three-day road-trip to Spirit of Tasmania. It's very exciting. I wonder how long that excitement will last? I mean, really, man and wife, two children aged five and seven, and a caravan? For nearly five weeks. I chuckle, and then try and get my breath again.
We haven't planned much. But do think we will go via Mount Gambier and Warnambool. We've booked the overnight sail on the Spirit of Tasmania, then... rambles. Rambles until Ben starts the Overland Track hike with my Dad. I think I'm okay with that. I have done it. But gee, I love hiking and being surrounded by just nature. And hey, I'll get to spend the week with the kids. Eek. There are wineries around, yes?
You know, when we planned to be in Tasmania for a month, I thought that would be plenty of time. Appears not. I'm already upset that we are only going to have two days around Bruny Island and Huon Valley. I feel like I'm missing towns I want to stay in. I want more. I'm already thinking we have to go back for Tamar Valley and Huon Valley - two places with not much scheduled time. Argh.
Anyway, stay tuned. I'll be writing and posting pics to Instagram as we go. Tasmania - you are gorgeous. Can't wait!
All Inclusive Resorts - my Bali trial.
I'm a boutique, quirky, cultural, local loving traveller. So why do I book an All Inclusive resort stay?
Would I go back? Hmm.
The kids, especially Ashton, loved looking at the huge fish in the pond that creeps around the garden centre of the resort.
I love the decor, and casual 'surf' feel. It is old, but nice.
Breakfast included freshly squeezed juices - even green ones!
We tried something new on our trip to Bali recently. We booked an All Inclusive Resort. I have always had a little voice saying 'give it a go,' the same voice that tells me to do a cruise holiday and maybe, just maybe, book a tour group holiday with the kids. I've never been one to do these sorts of holidays, so it leaves me questioning my thoughts and why they are rising.
Well, when we found a resort, Sol Beach House Benoa, for what ended up costing us just $500 more than the typical resort (that we were looking at) which included only breakfast, I decided to jump.
Sol Beach House included all meals, all drinks including non-imported alcoholic, daily activities including yoga, shows at night and bike hire. It sounded too good to be true. I love yoga, Belle and Ashton would love the shows at night, and we'd love not having to pay for food that only gets half eaten at times. We could eat whenever we want without needing to find a good restaurant we all like. Ben and I could do yoga every day without paying the usual $10-20 per session. Yes!
The pool is where the action is - aquarobics, pool bar, floating pillows.
Well, it wasn't exactly like that.
Blue Package. I nice room, but with two extra beds, would have been a sea of sheets for the kids to jump over.
On arrival, I found a room with only three beds - two singles and a rollaway. But there are four of us. I ask housekeeping about another bed, and they were going to bring in another, but then all floor space would be filled. It'd be a room of mattresses. Not ideal. I head to reception and ask what can be done. After a little 'strong' discussion, we arrange for the sofa bed to be made up as another bed. I mention that perhaps their website shouldn't allow for me to book this room for four people if they don't allow four people in it.
Resort or nightclub?
The activities were occasional. Yoga once during our stay. The Shows late for the kids (9 pm) and at times B-grade. Think scantily clad girls on sticks covered in glow sticks bopping to club music for four songs.
Tai chi in the garden, in between the pool and beach walkway.
Balinese Cultural Show in the garden. Didn't keep my attention like other shows, but I think Belle liked it (well, at least 15 minutes of it anyway!)
The food was fresh and salads were yummy - but it was all very similar every day. I missed going out and discovering new places to eat but didn't want to 'waste' our money by not utilising what we had paid for with the resorts all inclusive rate.
Fish in the restaurant.
Pizza with your cheese anyone? They were tasty when ordered with less cheese.
I loved the fresh and tasty salads. Nearly made me vego.
Fish and Chips. I think the look of the fish put the kids off. Shame.
The resort was not horrible - it was nice. A lovely reception area with swing chairs that the kids loved. They also loved playing darts and pool in the games room - but couldn't access the kids play room as it was always shut.
The games room.
Setting up for Balinese Cultural Show and Dinner in the garden.
The kids loved feeding the animals. And these little guys loved being fed.
The staff was friendly. The pool towel guy especially kind - helping me look around the resort, and get the word out to other staff and guests when Ashton run away from me one day.
These guys knew their music.
The kids loved going to the restaurant - any time of day.
Sidenote: Ashton ended up running back to the room with Ben, but meanwhile I left Belle in the pool with a new friend's Grandma watching over her, and was running all over the resort in my bikini calling for him. The new friends Dad run in the opposite direction and asked everyone if they had seen a little boy. It was a very scary 10 minutes for me.
Ashton playing with the fish in the ponds. Normally, if he wasn't in the pool - he'd be here.
I missed the chat and friendships from the small resort and didn't want to interrupt anyone from their sunbathing over a book. Eventually, we did find people to strike up a conversation with. They mentioned they had been to better all inclusive resorts in the area - in the sense of more atmosphere and greater food selection. Perhaps you do get what you pay for - funny that.
These were a bit of fun for a few minutes. If only we knew how to play...
I'm not saying this resort is bad, or that my decision was wrong - I guess I had to do it to realise that this concept is completely not my scene. Especially after coming from a small, friendship focused surf camp in the 'jungle' of Padang Padang. Culture shock.
Should I try a cruise ship holiday or squash the thought?
When things go wrong while travelling #2
A quick trip to the supermarket unfolds into an evening at the hospital.
The playground at the caravan park the kids wanted to play on when we got back from the supermarket. Unfortunately it was getting dark, so they had to wait until morning to have a play again.
Picture this. You are going to the Great Ocean Road, a spectacular driving holiday. A bucket list item for many. You are towing a camper trailer and have two small children. At the end of the first day of travelling, all the kids want to do is play on the playground. But you need supplies. Fresh bread, milk, etc. A pit-stop at the local supermarket should be quick and easy, yes?
Of course. Except for when your toddler falls over the front of your shopping trolley, onto his head, and passes out. Locals freeze. You scream while frantically blowing into his face, trying to get him to 'wake up'. This is what happened to us.
Ben runs around, asking locals where the hospital is, while Ashton rolls his eyes around, in and out of consciousness. Hearts are beating super speed. Bread and milk don't seem so important now.
Five minutes later, after trying to prop Ashton up in the baby seat while he 'dreams', we are running into the hospital with him in our arms. The running seems to awaken Ashton and before long he is trying to figure out what all the new toys are, pulling at hoses, trying to turn gadgets on - all while a nurse tries to get his stats. Phew. At least he is conscious and aware. I presume all is ok, and we will be sent home within a few minutes.
But no, 'luckily' for us, we get to spend five hours in the hospital with Ashton being monitored. Nurses check on him constantly, making sure he is stable and not suffering from any internal damage.
We had the huge kids room to ourselves and allowed to bring in fish and chips for tea. It's not where I want to be; I'm getting bored, but I want to make sure Ashton is okay. Finally, after final checks, the nurse discharges us. Yay. Not the playground the kids wanted to play in, but an adventure none the less.
Guess we didn't need supplies after all - not for dinner anyway.
What's wrong? Confused with all the attention he gets after being in hospital.
