Khao Lak... a quiet alternative to Phuket.

For the longest time (since I was there in 2012), I thought I didn’t like the Phuket area of Thailand. The crowded beaches and tourist-heavy areas never appealed to me. However, my recent trip to Khao Lak proved me wrong. Nestled on the Andaman Sea, just over an hour’s drive north of Phuket International Airport, Khao Lak is a peaceful haven that offered me the perfect blend of reflection and adventure. Two places that changed my mind: the Tsunami Memorial on the beach (and the massages right next to it) and staying at Pakarang Surf Beach.

A Tribute to Resilience: The Tsunami Memorial

Khao Lak's beautiful coastline holds a sobering history. On December 26, 2004, the region was one of the hardest hit by the devastating Indian Ocean tsunami. The natural disaster left an indelible mark on the area and its people. Today, visitors can pay their respects at the Tsunami Memorial on the beach, a poignant tribute to those who lost their lives.

The memorial features a police boat, Boat 813, that was washed over a kilometre inland by the force of the tsunami waves. This boat has been preserved as a stark reminder of nature's power and the resilience of the human spirit. Walking around the memorial, I felt a profound respect for the community’s strength and their ability to rebuild from such tragedy. There’s something very sobering about hearing the sound of waves crashing just metres away as I look at all the names on the wall of people who lost their lives.

Side Note: The massage huts right next to the memorial are perfect for a pre-visit. I had one of the best massages this visit here.

Riding the Waves: Pakarang Surf Beach

Pakarang Surf Beach provided the salty Vitamin Sea adventure I had been craving. This beach is a favourite among local surfers. Another reason I love it - the local feel. Windy sand paths between the trees that border the beach, a river you have to wade (as tide comes in) to get to the beach, local fishermen that leave their nets and baskets on the beach, local surfers having beers at Memories each night… it all makes me feel like I’m in the right spot.

The surf season in Khao Lak typically runs from April to November, so I was unsure I’d get waves. I did - they were small. But I got my daily salty surf fix. I hired a board each day at the laid back Memories Beach Bar, and only on the last day I was bitten by a jellyfish. The signs had been up for days at the resort, and nobody seemed to care. And to be honest, I hadn’t paid any attention either. I was bitten when I first got in, but didn’t know what the sting was about, so kept surfing, splashing water and holding it to stop the sting. It was only when I got out of the water that the sting intensified. It stayed with me until I was on the plane, half way home to Adelaide, that evening. Ouch.

If you love the local, surfy vibe, then I’d recommend you go to Pakarang, but slightly later - for bigger and more waves. Staying at Apsara Beachfront Resort was the perfect spot, being able to check for waves from my window or from the beachfront pool lounger.

I went to Khao Lak thinking I didn’t like the Phuket area, but I left with a new appreciation for this part of Thailand. The poignant and reflective atmosphere of the Tsunami Memorial and the adventurous yet relaxed vibe of Pakarang Surf Beach completely changed my perspective. If, like me, you’ve been hesitant about visiting Phuket, consider taking a trip to Khao Lak. It’s a testament to the beauty and resilience of nature and humanity, and it promises an enriching and unforgettable experience.

Hands Across the Water charity bike ride 2024 with a crappy camera...

I did it! I’m ‘adventurous’ enough to brave Thailand’s hot, humid 40-degree days for five consecutive days. On a bicycle.

But do you know why? It’s for the incredible kids we support. Kids who need our help for shelter, school, and food – a life of choice, not chance.

And you know what keeps me going? The amazing people I ride with. This year, it was a lively group of nearly 70 (described by one rider as "bat-shit crazy") business owners from Business Blueprint.

The hardest part? The training. I don’t like riding bikes. It’s boring, especially on my own.

The best part? Riding through Thailand with a bunch of fantastic people. And especially the last day, riding in to meet the kids at the home. Those are happy tears.

Every year, I take my GoPro and a snap camera. They’re easy to hold in one hand and tuck away in my handlebar bag. Am I thrilled with the quality? Not really. But do I have fun with it? Absolutely.

Here are the pics…

Feel like being adventurous while doing a damn good thing? Check out a future ride here - https://www.handsacrossthewater.org.au/

Beachcomber, Honolulu HAWAII

After five nights on the North Shore, I thought we had better find out what Waikiki was about. This hotel is located in a great location on Kalākaua Avenue, surrounded by luxury stores, a street market, hotels, and the beach just a building away.

My favourite way to get to the beach? Through Surfboard Alley! It is just across the road, and seeing all the surfboards locked up along the wall is always intriguing.

Surfs up!

From the Hawaiian art and photographs decking the walls to the artisan eats and locally made beer, Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel will immerse you in the spirit of Waikiki. Inspired by local influencers and artists, the Beachcomber Originals, this craft hotel was created with an island vibe and is the perfect place to sip a Mai Tai and soak in the energy of aloha. - Outrigger Waikiki Beachcomber Hotel

Kualoa Ranch, Hawaii

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!

Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu HAWAII

The most expensive hotel I have ever booked. But would I do it again? YES.

I love this place - the area, the surf, the views, the people, the turtles, the laid back nature. Take me back anytime. Please.

https://www.turtlebayresort.com/

New Orleans

‘Want to go to Jazz Fest with me?’

Of course, my answer was ‘sure!’ even though I didn’t know anything about jazz, or New Orleans, or the festival itself. I’m always up for an adventure - especially with my cousin. And this sure was one of those.

“The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is an annual celebration of local music and culture held at the Fair Grounds Race Course in New Orleans, Louisiana.”

And to my surprise, it’s not just jazz. 2023 was a celebration of Puerto Rico - and I was in my element.

“New Orleans is a Louisiana city on the Mississippi River, near the Gulf of Mexico. Nicknamed the "Big Easy," it's known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene and spicy, singular cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African and American cultures.”

It was my first introduction to mainland USA and I loved it. Perhaps not the food or smells so much, but everything else.

Here is my version of a week in New Orleans.

Coober Pedy: opal capital of the world.

An interesting wander around the backstreets of Coober Pedy while there for a shoot recently.

Wild South Coast Way

“The creation of the Wild South Coast Way on the Heysen Trail will connect the parks that run along our breathtaking southern coastline and become a beacon for locals and tourists alike, driving sustainable economic growth in the region and promoting accessibility for all.

Upgrade sections of the iconic Heysen Trail from Cape Jervis to Victor Harbor to create a five day, four-night hike and other high-quality trail-based experiences.

The visitor experience at Deep Creek Conservation Park will be enhanced and expanded with a new day visitor facility, a universally accessible walking trail, and upgrades to existing campgrounds and amenities. The project will also support new, and enhance existing, nature-based experiences in the tourism sector.”

CLIENT: National Parks and Wildlife Service South Australia, Department of Environment and Water

SHOOT: One day on sections of Wild South Coast Way. heidi who photos organised talent (to be photographed with staff) and photographed.

The Vineyard Retreat

“The Vineyard Mclaren Vale is a peaceful and stylish vineyard retreat with distinctive guest houses and cadole’s; each commanding views over South Australia’s most idyllic wine and food region.

An unpretentious wine country escape, ensconced in a working vineyard, the contemporary and well-appointed guest houses are elegant and sophisticated.”

Two shoots for The Vineyard Retreat - each accommodation is unique, and full of elegance and sophistication indeed.

Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail pre fires

SHOOT: Kangaroo Island Wilderness Trail, Kangaroo Island 2019

CLIENT: National Parks and Wildlife, Department for Environment and Water

BRIEF: Capture the different vegetation, views and feels of the trail: the experience, the landscape, the feeling, the camps.

Three day shoot with four talent during winter. Images to show different seasons.

Talent organised through 'heidi who street casting' Facebook page.

Images used by the client, and a variety of media, to promote the trail.

Fifty final images delivered to the client.