Homecoming
The exchange itself brought me many advantages. It gave me a chance to look at the world through interaction with students from around the globe. I experienced independence (although not completely economically independent). Through this exchange, I really understand what it means by having 'hard wings, you can now fly anywhere'. I no longer want to set my home in Singapore anymore. With an accent-less English, I am set on being a global citizen. I still can remember the day where I stepped through the gates of freedom. I didn't know anyone in Australia, but still chose to come here knowing that I will come here with no friends. It will be a social challenge, away from the comfort zone, face the racism. I went into my hall in ANU, B&G alone. Now, so much have changed. I now have global friends. I would say this is the greatest takeaway from my exchange. The multitude of close friends I manage to make in this short 5 month exchange is simply incomprehensible. As much as all my newly made close friends would like to keep in close contact and remain as close friends, deep inside, I know that this is no longer possible. The friction of distance really gets people. All of us will move on and make new friends (and forget some old ones) at different stages of our life. It is regretful for people who still look back and cling onto it. I shall be mentally prepared. What I will leave behind are treasure experiences and memories. As for some few friends who I will see them again in Singapore... I wish that day comes soon.
Monday, July 14, 2014
Melbourne
Melbourne is an amazing city where arts, culture and
business meets.
Probably the most unplanned trip and most shaky of all, the ultimate independence with nobody to rely on (except a small meeting with Raad) and no planning done before hand. This trip was inspired because I want to meet my old JC friend Cheryl Tan, who was 'too tired' to meet up with me. People who actually helped me plan (while I was already in the trip!) were Lauren de Waal (met from ENGN4420, told me everything nice!), Karen (basic information, public transport), Andy (basic information), Anna (shopping streets) and Aman (food!). Through this trip, I also realized that the white stuff in the sea I always see were actually wavefronts, not sails. It is just wonderful that I stopped here before flying back to Singapore and ending my exchange.
7 July 2014 Clear, Sydney > Melbourne CBD, Planning Day
Woke up early to catch the flight to Melbourne Avalon. It
delayed half an hour due to fog in Avalon... Seems to me that flight
delays is a rather common thing, haha. Landed safely afterwhich I arranged the
only (expensive) transport into Melbourne CBD. I have a really hard time trying
to figure out the public transport in Melbourne, when many people say their
public transport is good. I think I am just stupid, or it was just because I
relied on Google Maps too much. After very long, I finally figured out a path
to get to my accommodation, but that took me 40 minutes of walking with all my
luggage! When I reach the place, I wasn't very happy with the place. Its
location is very bad. I guess it was a mistake to book here, Pint on Punt
doesn't suit me. I quickly cancelled the booking for the next 3 days and
changed accommodation to one in the CBD. Used computer for the entire
afternoon. Dinner was at a Punjab cafe, was a disappointment as well.
Determined to improve the trip for the next few days, I went ahead and planned
for the next few days before sleeping.
8 July 2014 Clear, Shop/Eat Day
Woke up to the free breakfast. Really making my money worth
it even when I made a bad decision to stay away from Melbourne CBD. Met a new
friend called Mark Duffield, who travelled the world. I'll listen to his advise
and go China for my next destination. Went to the post office to send a parcel
to my dear friend. Saw Melbourne outside of the CBD. Pretty unique. Grabbed my
luggage and went off to CBD! This time, I knew exactly how to move around and
got to the CBD cheap and fast. Had KFC for lunch, wanted to see how it is here.
It is amazing, it improved so much! Wandered around Melbourne CBD without
worrying about getting lost, free and easy. I found the legendary large H&M
outlet and it was super crowded. Ended up in Queen Victoria Markets, walked
around and bought souvenirs for my dear friends. To my horror, they close at 2
PM, when I am not even done! I decided I was tired and went to check into
United Backpackers. I kinda like this hostel better. The feeling is great, how
you can shop till you're tired, then just walk back to your hostel and rest. I
met up with Raad for dinner, but have to wait 2 more hours for dinner. What's
more, I have to say no to him asking me to go to a strip club. Was rather
awkward and bad. I live by my own rights and rules. There is only so much I can
do for my friend. So, I went back and rested for the night.
9 July 2014, Cloudy, Eat Day
Slept in till 9 AM to recover my strength and alertness
but to no avail. After breakfast, I visited the post office to send out
postcards and a letter. On the way, I actually ran into John Zhang, like, what
a coincidence! Took a picture and went ahead on our way. Lunch was at Don Don,
pretty awesome for its price. I then went to Max Brenner chocolate bar for
chocolate brownie sundae. It made me very happy! Well, it was super sinful too.
I really wonder how they can make liquid milk chocolate taste so good! Bought
more souvenirs, concluding all the gifts that I will buy back. Still yet to buy
are more chocolates and alcohol, which I should be able to find at the airport.
In the afternoon, I visited Fitzroy Gardens. No regrets. They have an amazing
conservatory.
I sunk into complete relaxation as I stepped into a paradise of plants, flowers, soothing music(!) and marble statues. I guess I am a sucker to beautiful soothing music. I then moved on towards Royal Botanic gardens, where my phone died, and hence no more pictures, and navigation was done using only a map. It relives the old days without proper technology. I am glad I was still able to do it without getting lost, since it is foreign ground. While getting there, I also discovered many major landmarks such as William Darak Bridge, King's Domain, Sidney Myer Music Bowl (no spelling error). On the way back, I saw the Shrine of Rememberance, Queen Victoria Gardens, Victoria Barracks, and many other statues in between. It was another great solo walk, but no pictures to remember it by. Did the walk in the rain. On the way back, I sheltered a random stranger going to a conference. Poor her to get wet before a conference. I actually helped her find directions even when I am a tourist myself! Dinner was at The Meat and Wine Co. I was after Kangaroo meat. It feels strange going to a posh restaurant to eat alone. I am sure I got some weird judgement from the waitresses there. The meat tasted really unique. Kangaroo meat haha, nowhere else in the world. The chef did a really good job with the spices and flavouring.
10 July 2014, Rain, Travel Day
It started off with a cloudy morning. According to the tour
guide and driver however, the Great Ocean Road is a road of four seasons. Sure
enough, the clouds cleared as we passed by Geelong. The Great Ocean Road
started its construction in 1919, took more than 30 years, and extends about
200 km.The tour is a small group tour in a van. I soon realized that most
people in the group were Chinese, with one korean and two Ukrainians. We stopped
by a cafe in Torquay. I had my last Flat White in Australia. Saw a rainbow
along the way when we start the Great Ocean Road. It is also amazing how in
each wave, a mist is made, and it has the colours of the rainbow. We made
another random stop where we fed very colourful birds and saw a koala sleeping
on the tree. They are all wild! Lunch was pretty little. The 12 apostles are
not exactly 12. 4 are already missing, some have collapsed. This was caused by
the strong waves which toppled them over. On the world map, the south side of
Australia is bent in (Great Australian Bight). This is due to constant erosion
from the strong large waves from the Southern Ocean.
When I was there, there was a storm going on, raging wind and rain. That did not stop me and other tourists from going in and getting beautiful pictures. I wore my 4th layer, the raincoat windbreaker and went into the storm to take pictures! It would have been nicer if it is a clear sunny day though, but I would settle for this. Totally worth the trip. Next stop is the Loch Ard Gorge, named after the shipwreck here. It is stunning as well. Foam bubbles get blown up the cliffs, creating a dreamy effect. On the way back, we stopped by Colac. Reached Melbourne CBD and went to Shanghai Street Dumplings for dinner. The waitress warned me about me ordering too much haha! The meal was great, the xiao long bao actually had soup inside. At the end, she asked me if I was full. I replied, yep, I am quite full. Satisfied with my last meal in Australia, I went back to my hostel and rested early for tomorrow's flight. Talked to some people in the backpacker hostel.
11 July 2014, Clear, Homecoming
All good byes said are instant messaging, reducing the
impact of actually feeling sad that I am about to leave Australia and not come
back for a long time. However, I still appreciate every little of them. Flight
delayed for an hour and a half, again.
Sunday, July 13, 2014
New Zealand
Admittedly, much planning was done in a rush. I planned the route of advance for South Island and left for Fiji after that, so all North Island is planned by Edmund. Impromptu planning help was given by Andy. New Zealand is full of mountains and lakes, beautiful, but grew sick of it fast too. It is amazing how New Zealand can develop while keeping the lakes and mountains so natural. The people you travel with matters a lot to the trip. Learn to see the good in everyone. I did so much driving in this trip I definitely improved a lot.
28 June 2014, Clear, Christchurch
Landed nicely in New Zealand and started planning in the airport. Did not have a good rest and it accumulated from last night, but went to Jucy and collected the car. Driving mountain road when you are sleepy is just not advised. Checked in at Point Break Backpackers, visited New Brighton pier and did groceries. Went to take Christchurch's gondola up crater rim for some scenic views. We then drove 40 km to Akaroa but it was late and we cannot do any lake activities. Dinner was shared Fish and chips, really well worth it. Had an early night since today was spent zombie-like. We sang songs along the way to keep ourselves awake along the road trips. Seems so far that New Zealand is all mountains and lakes so far.
29 June 2014, Cloudy, Christchurch > Lake Tekapo
After breakfast and final grocery shopping, we left Christchurch and went to Lake Tekapo. Was a sleepy three hour drive. Seafood basket at Doughboys for lunch. We then walked around the lake for scenic views and played stone skipping and throwing. It was actually fun. The winds here are very strong. Saw the Church of Good Hope too. Dinner was at Thai Tekapo, was not good. Planned for Dunedin.
30 June 2014, Clear, Lake Tekapo > Dunedin
I did not rest well because the room is not very well ventilated. We had to keep the windows closed for the heater to work efficiently. We woke up early and drove to Dunedin, stopped halfway at a cafe along the way. I got my regular flat white. We went into University of Otago to meet with Edmund's friend Li Kee, and she took us around the campus. We then tried to go for the train rides in Dunedin, but none suit us. We then went to Larnach Castle. It was beautiful, got some nice pictures. LiKee commented on how my pictures are always very nice. Dinner was at a very nice steak house. We then went up Signal Hill to get a glimpse of the night scenery of entire Dunedin. It was impressive indeed. Turned in for the night.
1 July 2014, Cloudy, Dunedin > Te Anau > Queenstown
Woke up late and left Dunedin for the long drive to Te Anau. We reached Te Anau and cooked our own lunch. Explored Lake Te Anau, looked at the fjord at ground level while exploring the area. Te Anau is beautiful, however, Edmund did not really appreciate the beauty. We then decided to forgo the rent and went straight to Queenstown for the night. It seems that Queenstown is beautiful too, but it was already nightfall and we can't see the surrounding and the lookouts. Dinner was Fergburger, awesome meal. We went into an Ice Bar, -8C, to have cocktail and be around ice sculptures. So, it was heard that it is going to snow, at -4C. We were really excited about the snow! Having budget constraints, we plan to luge tomorrow.
2 July 2014, Snow, Queenstown
Woke up slightly late and watched world cup over breakfast. It dragged a little. Don't you think it is a waste of time watching world cup on a trip? It started to snow slightly in Queenstown itself. We went up the gondola in Skyline Queenstown, to go up to take the luge. It snowed very heavily up in the mountains!
You can really see each crystal with the naked eye, provided they don't melt too quickly, how amazing is that! Made snowman. Seeing snow in my exchange is finally off the bucket list! . Tried the luge without gloves, and my hands felt like they don't belong to me anymore. Kept them safe from chill bane, fortunately. Lunch was at a mexican restaurant, okay prices, but small servings. We then drove out of Queenstown to Paradise, one of the scenes of Lord of the Rings. It was a scenic drive. It was paradise. Pictures cannot do it justice. Snowy mountains in the backdrop, horses, sheep and cows grazing around the grass. Serene peace. We drive back, in tired mood. We cooked our own dinner and then turned in for the night. I decided to check on my good friend Andy, who helped me a lot in this travel.
3 July 2014, Foggy, Queenstown > Auckland > Rotorua
We woke up rather early to return the car and catch our flight to realise that... it has been delayed! It was due to fog/snow/ice on runway. After wasting five hours in the airport, we are finally set to take off. North Island is very green from the sky. Landed and ate MacDonald's in the airport because we were too hungry, and while finding Jucy car rental, we found a rainbow. Jucy Auckland moved to Aintree Avenue, which caused us quite some trouble finding and ultimately getting the car! I realized the fuel isn't full, but I thought they are pretty lenient on that. Drove to Rotorua and was greeted by the sulphur smell. Did some groceries and cooked an awesome meal. The backpacker accommodation that we have in Rotorua is cheap, but yet the best one. We had the whole room to ourselves. There was only bath tub. Used it and enjoyed it, although it wasn't clean. A whole day of just waiting and travelling.
4 July 2014, Clear, Rotorua
We decided that we would split up today due to differing interests. After breakfast, we dropped Cheryl off at Agrodome, them went to Wai-o-Tapu thermal park. Although the smell is strong, the unique geothermal activities got me very excited. Got a lot of nice smoky pictures, craters, sulphur lakes, sulphur rock deposits and the famous Champagne pool!
This place was really a beautiful and curious place. I think the gases in the smoke caused us headaches. Bought oven mittens for Joyce here as an encouragement for her, a budding baker. We also visited the mud pools to see exploding mud. A very eye opening experience. Made a huge delicious lunch. Walked around Rotorua for a bit and found a parade happening in city centre. There was a ski rink, bumper car, and a large screen showing Frozen. What a find in the night! Made our own large late dinner again, then turned in for the night.
5 July 2014, Rain, Rotorua > Auckland
After eating own breakfast, we set off to see an important scene from Lord of the Rings: Hobbiton! The entire place was very nicely built. It was dreamy, and the whole place is like straight out from a game with good graphics. It was a pity it was a rather rainy day. Took a lot of beautiful game-like pictures.
Had a fast drink at Green Dragon Inn. The afternoon was spent in Hamilton, had a rather bad lunch, walked into Hamilton Gardens. It probably was not a good idea to visit the gardens in winter. I was not disappointed though, beautiful gardens. Drove back to Auckland after sun down, the drive reminds me of Singapore roads. Had a cheap, awesome, unhealthy dinner of chicken and chips, then rested for the night.
6 July 2014 Clear, Auckland > Sydney
The day is spent in Auckland. It did not go as well as we wanted it to be. Started the day by visiting Mount Eden, a non-active volcano. It sure has a large crater. We then visited One-tree Hill. It is amazing that there are a whole lot of sheeps (and shit) at the hill. I then drove to Auckland Skytower, went for a bit of looking, then ate lunch at a 'hawker centre'. We came back to find that our car has been booked for exceeding the parking time. We drove to return our car. The Jucy staff told me that the fuel isn't full. I argued that it wasn't even full in the first place, in fact, it was less than three quarters! Stupid Jucy Auckland, I'll remember you for that. First you move out of the airport and made yourself difficult to find, next you gave me a car that doesn't have full tank and expect it back full. We then arrived at the airport and hour and a half early before flight to find out that there is only one check-in counter for Jetstar, and the queue is very long. We made it about 2 minutes before check-in closes. Landed in Sydney slightly early and met up with Cherry, Andy and her parents for a last dinner together. The meal itself was very nice. However, many different things are going on for my two friends' minds. I had some hopes that I could at least meet Cherry alone, but that didn't happen. I did not manage to say a 'proper goodbye', if you know what I mean, because whenever the two of them are together, I can't do anything and Cherry becomes super passive. I would like to believe, in our minds, Cherry and I knows. Note to self not to let this happen on myself. Leaving Eastwood with regrets on the train. Had a slight rest for the next and last trip: Melbourne.
Admittedly, much planning was done in a rush. I planned the route of advance for South Island and left for Fiji after that, so all North Island is planned by Edmund. Impromptu planning help was given by Andy. New Zealand is full of mountains and lakes, beautiful, but grew sick of it fast too. It is amazing how New Zealand can develop while keeping the lakes and mountains so natural. The people you travel with matters a lot to the trip. Learn to see the good in everyone. I did so much driving in this trip I definitely improved a lot.
28 June 2014, Clear, Christchurch
Landed nicely in New Zealand and started planning in the airport. Did not have a good rest and it accumulated from last night, but went to Jucy and collected the car. Driving mountain road when you are sleepy is just not advised. Checked in at Point Break Backpackers, visited New Brighton pier and did groceries. Went to take Christchurch's gondola up crater rim for some scenic views. We then drove 40 km to Akaroa but it was late and we cannot do any lake activities. Dinner was shared Fish and chips, really well worth it. Had an early night since today was spent zombie-like. We sang songs along the way to keep ourselves awake along the road trips. Seems so far that New Zealand is all mountains and lakes so far.
29 June 2014, Cloudy, Christchurch > Lake Tekapo
After breakfast and final grocery shopping, we left Christchurch and went to Lake Tekapo. Was a sleepy three hour drive. Seafood basket at Doughboys for lunch. We then walked around the lake for scenic views and played stone skipping and throwing. It was actually fun. The winds here are very strong. Saw the Church of Good Hope too. Dinner was at Thai Tekapo, was not good. Planned for Dunedin.
30 June 2014, Clear, Lake Tekapo > Dunedin
I did not rest well because the room is not very well ventilated. We had to keep the windows closed for the heater to work efficiently. We woke up early and drove to Dunedin, stopped halfway at a cafe along the way. I got my regular flat white. We went into University of Otago to meet with Edmund's friend Li Kee, and she took us around the campus. We then tried to go for the train rides in Dunedin, but none suit us. We then went to Larnach Castle. It was beautiful, got some nice pictures. LiKee commented on how my pictures are always very nice. Dinner was at a very nice steak house. We then went up Signal Hill to get a glimpse of the night scenery of entire Dunedin. It was impressive indeed. Turned in for the night.
1 July 2014, Cloudy, Dunedin > Te Anau > Queenstown
Woke up late and left Dunedin for the long drive to Te Anau. We reached Te Anau and cooked our own lunch. Explored Lake Te Anau, looked at the fjord at ground level while exploring the area. Te Anau is beautiful, however, Edmund did not really appreciate the beauty. We then decided to forgo the rent and went straight to Queenstown for the night. It seems that Queenstown is beautiful too, but it was already nightfall and we can't see the surrounding and the lookouts. Dinner was Fergburger, awesome meal. We went into an Ice Bar, -8C, to have cocktail and be around ice sculptures. So, it was heard that it is going to snow, at -4C. We were really excited about the snow! Having budget constraints, we plan to luge tomorrow.
2 July 2014, Snow, Queenstown
Woke up slightly late and watched world cup over breakfast. It dragged a little. Don't you think it is a waste of time watching world cup on a trip? It started to snow slightly in Queenstown itself. We went up the gondola in Skyline Queenstown, to go up to take the luge. It snowed very heavily up in the mountains!
You can really see each crystal with the naked eye, provided they don't melt too quickly, how amazing is that! Made snowman. Seeing snow in my exchange is finally off the bucket list! . Tried the luge without gloves, and my hands felt like they don't belong to me anymore. Kept them safe from chill bane, fortunately. Lunch was at a mexican restaurant, okay prices, but small servings. We then drove out of Queenstown to Paradise, one of the scenes of Lord of the Rings. It was a scenic drive. It was paradise. Pictures cannot do it justice. Snowy mountains in the backdrop, horses, sheep and cows grazing around the grass. Serene peace. We drive back, in tired mood. We cooked our own dinner and then turned in for the night. I decided to check on my good friend Andy, who helped me a lot in this travel.
3 July 2014, Foggy, Queenstown > Auckland > Rotorua
We woke up rather early to return the car and catch our flight to realise that... it has been delayed! It was due to fog/snow/ice on runway. After wasting five hours in the airport, we are finally set to take off. North Island is very green from the sky. Landed and ate MacDonald's in the airport because we were too hungry, and while finding Jucy car rental, we found a rainbow. Jucy Auckland moved to Aintree Avenue, which caused us quite some trouble finding and ultimately getting the car! I realized the fuel isn't full, but I thought they are pretty lenient on that. Drove to Rotorua and was greeted by the sulphur smell. Did some groceries and cooked an awesome meal. The backpacker accommodation that we have in Rotorua is cheap, but yet the best one. We had the whole room to ourselves. There was only bath tub. Used it and enjoyed it, although it wasn't clean. A whole day of just waiting and travelling.
4 July 2014, Clear, Rotorua
We decided that we would split up today due to differing interests. After breakfast, we dropped Cheryl off at Agrodome, them went to Wai-o-Tapu thermal park. Although the smell is strong, the unique geothermal activities got me very excited. Got a lot of nice smoky pictures, craters, sulphur lakes, sulphur rock deposits and the famous Champagne pool!
This place was really a beautiful and curious place. I think the gases in the smoke caused us headaches. Bought oven mittens for Joyce here as an encouragement for her, a budding baker. We also visited the mud pools to see exploding mud. A very eye opening experience. Made a huge delicious lunch. Walked around Rotorua for a bit and found a parade happening in city centre. There was a ski rink, bumper car, and a large screen showing Frozen. What a find in the night! Made our own large late dinner again, then turned in for the night.
5 July 2014, Rain, Rotorua > Auckland
After eating own breakfast, we set off to see an important scene from Lord of the Rings: Hobbiton! The entire place was very nicely built. It was dreamy, and the whole place is like straight out from a game with good graphics. It was a pity it was a rather rainy day. Took a lot of beautiful game-like pictures.
Had a fast drink at Green Dragon Inn. The afternoon was spent in Hamilton, had a rather bad lunch, walked into Hamilton Gardens. It probably was not a good idea to visit the gardens in winter. I was not disappointed though, beautiful gardens. Drove back to Auckland after sun down, the drive reminds me of Singapore roads. Had a cheap, awesome, unhealthy dinner of chicken and chips, then rested for the night.
6 July 2014 Clear, Auckland > Sydney
The day is spent in Auckland. It did not go as well as we wanted it to be. Started the day by visiting Mount Eden, a non-active volcano. It sure has a large crater. We then visited One-tree Hill. It is amazing that there are a whole lot of sheeps (and shit) at the hill. I then drove to Auckland Skytower, went for a bit of looking, then ate lunch at a 'hawker centre'. We came back to find that our car has been booked for exceeding the parking time. We drove to return our car. The Jucy staff told me that the fuel isn't full. I argued that it wasn't even full in the first place, in fact, it was less than three quarters! Stupid Jucy Auckland, I'll remember you for that. First you move out of the airport and made yourself difficult to find, next you gave me a car that doesn't have full tank and expect it back full. We then arrived at the airport and hour and a half early before flight to find out that there is only one check-in counter for Jetstar, and the queue is very long. We made it about 2 minutes before check-in closes. Landed in Sydney slightly early and met up with Cherry, Andy and her parents for a last dinner together. The meal itself was very nice. However, many different things are going on for my two friends' minds. I had some hopes that I could at least meet Cherry alone, but that didn't happen. I did not manage to say a 'proper goodbye', if you know what I mean, because whenever the two of them are together, I can't do anything and Cherry becomes super passive. I would like to believe, in our minds, Cherry and I knows. Note to self not to let this happen on myself. Leaving Eastwood with regrets on the train. Had a slight rest for the next and last trip: Melbourne.
Saturday, July 12, 2014
Fiji
Much credit for the success for this trip goes into the rash decision of booking the flight tickets! Of course, the event detail planning was done by Cherry's parents. This tour is unique in the sense that I travelled like an adult, not a backpacker. Money is spent mostly on food and accommodation rather than activities. A trip that will leave great and unforgettable memories with Cherry. We took many really cool pictures and I really liked them.
22 June 2014, Clear, Canberra > Sydney
It was difficult to say good bye to B & G. I was really sad and I hid all my emotions as I hugged people good bye. Deep inside though, it hurts knowing that I might not see many of the people here again. Good bye for now. Set off for Sydney for a night in 790 on George. The staff is very nice! Random dunner from the streets of Sydney Central Station.
23 June 2014, Cloudy, Sydney > Nadi
Woke up early to catch the flight to Fiji. The checking in at Fiji airport took 1.5 hours of waiting. I met Cherry's parents for the first time. The locals are very nice indeed, I have a feeling that I might just come back here in the future. Dinner was a seafood feast in a local canton restaurant: Sentai Seafood Restaurant. I really liked the fresh scallops. Along the way, nearly every Fijian assumed that Cherry and I are on a honeymoon, how funny, the hotel staff even gave us a basket of fruits! Too bad though, we are clearly just very good friends, always have to clear the misunderstandings. Had an early night since the past few nights were all short.
24 June 2014, Cloudy, Nadi > Mana Island
After waking up from a good sleep, we set off from Nadi to go to Mana Island. Had buffet lunch. We went scuba diving at the north side of Mana Island. The corals are really pretty and there are fishes here as well! It really is a tropical paradise. Time seems to past so fast. Before dinner, Cherry and I lied down on beach chairs and had a nice long chat. It seems that I will really miss times like this when we are away from each other. The sun gradually went down to reveal the stars and star dust. It really was a sight to behold, so Cherry and I got carried away again. It was a huge pity though, that my presence was wrong. Someone should have been here with her instead. Dinner was Ala carte at south beach restaurant. (Small) crab racing was on at night. There was just some magic watching how bids are taken and then the race itself. There is just so much beauty on the island, you can literally recharge your mana here. Enjoying it so much.
25 June 2014, Cloudy, Mana Island
Woke up with a good stretch at the beach. From the land, you can actually see how the corals break the large pacific waves and how they become small waves as they reach the island. In the morning, we first played at the slides. It was really fun! I got carried away and forgot to remove my spectacles before a jump, losing it to the depths. Fortunately, Cherry got the help of a local diver to retrieved. I was soooo relieved and grateful. We then went to look at the corals of the south side. I think corals on the south side are prettier, with many fishes as well. All of us were so obsessed with getting good pictures that we suffered many cuts and abrasions on our legs and arms. Well worth it for the beautiful pictures. Lunch was at north beach buffet again. Sent postcards. After a slight rest, we went kayaking. Cherry was a tad too confident and wanted to try a solo kayak. After a few fails at trying to control her kayak, she decided she have to do a 2-player kayak with me. Not as easy as it seems eh? We then went to catch sunset at sunset beach. People are hyped up at the view, however, I was not.
Okay so, it was quite nice after all. Dinner was at the same place. It was the first time I almost got angry with the Fijians. There were many people, but there was no sense of urgency from the staff at all. They served bun without water. They took so long to come take our order. I almost wanted to go scold their staff, but the atmosphere makes it difficult to do so. This is definitely going into the feedback. One of the staff tried t be nice to us though. On a side note, I made a conclusion from all the small talk over dinner. There is no one good parenting system. While Singapore taught me to be polite and considerate, China's parenting has taught Cherry ti be caring and have initiative to serve. After dinner, we went to watch traditional dance, followed by the Australian tradition: 'anyhow dance'. Be like an Australian and dance in the anyhow dance: achievement unlocked! Stars were crazily beautiful, star dust so visible.
26 June 2014, Clear, Mana Island > Nadi
While Cherry's family friends are still curious about the beauty of the corals, Cherry and I found it not worth the swimming and cuts anymore. Did some administrative stuff, accounts, then went to see the Chapel that caught Cherry's attention on the way to sunset beach yesterday. Weather was hot, but the clear sky actually helped us take great pictures along the way. More quality chatting time with Cherry, was enlightening from my viewpoint. I never knew I came this far in one year of opening up to the other half. Upon reaching the chapel, my recce skills were activated! We creeped into private property and took some very beautiful pictures with the chapel.
Went back to find the whole gang interested in the chapel, so we went back again in the hot sun. Took a full tour group picture. It really makes for a good family photo... Lunch was the buffet again. Took ferry back to Nadi island, Raffles Gateway Hotel. We taxi'ed out for time to buy souvenirs. Dinner was at the same place. Both Cherry and I agreed that we should not keep eating at the same seafood restaurant and should try some local Fijian food, but the more 'adult' adults made the decision. Cherry and I bought a local popsicle, which made her really happy. This dinner was great! The fish is really good and the lobster was really tasty!Being really nice, Cherry's parents let me eat the entire lobster head. They think I was too courteous. On the taxi back, I learnt that not all Fijians were nice after all. The taxi driver wanted to charge me $3 more for extra waiting. Had an early night.
27 June 2014, Clear, Nadi > Sydney
Woke up early in the morning to go fishing after a brief breakfast. Tried my hands at hand-line fishing for the first time. It is very exciting! Our boat was greeted by the beautiful rainbow sunrise. It was the brightest rainbow I have seen yet, with a triple rainbow. We had no luck with big fishes using trawl fishing, but we got many smaller ones using hand-line fishing. It is funny. You only need a fishing line, hook, and bait. All you need to do is to hook the bait, lower the line, and feel the line for a tug. The excitement when you feel the tug in the line! I caught a grouper, a very tasty fish! We all caught a total of 20 fish and released 1 because it was juvenile. I salute Cherry's dad for releasing that small fish for it to grow.We went back to Sentai to have the fish cooked. It was the first time I experienced eating fresh fish that we just caught, very fresh and tasty indeed. After the great fish meal, we headed back to the airport. There, I got Cherry some Fijian souvenirs. Time to do the crazy thing, hop on two international flights with 55 minute interval. I managed to do it, mainly because the plane I am taking from Fiji to Sydney is also the same plane that is flying from Sydney to Christchurch, one delay just led to another. It was a huge success and I am very lucky indeed. The awkward moment when the air stewardess recognized me in the second flight as the guy who dropped the boarding pass straight through the gap between the boarding gate and the plane. Onward to the next trip with my Singapore exchange friends in New Zealand!
Woke up early to catch the flight to Fiji. The checking in at Fiji airport took 1.5 hours of waiting. I met Cherry's parents for the first time. The locals are very nice indeed, I have a feeling that I might just come back here in the future. Dinner was a seafood feast in a local canton restaurant: Sentai Seafood Restaurant. I really liked the fresh scallops. Along the way, nearly every Fijian assumed that Cherry and I are on a honeymoon, how funny, the hotel staff even gave us a basket of fruits! Too bad though, we are clearly just very good friends, always have to clear the misunderstandings. Had an early night since the past few nights were all short.
24 June 2014, Cloudy, Nadi > Mana Island
After waking up from a good sleep, we set off from Nadi to go to Mana Island. Had buffet lunch. We went scuba diving at the north side of Mana Island. The corals are really pretty and there are fishes here as well! It really is a tropical paradise. Time seems to past so fast. Before dinner, Cherry and I lied down on beach chairs and had a nice long chat. It seems that I will really miss times like this when we are away from each other. The sun gradually went down to reveal the stars and star dust. It really was a sight to behold, so Cherry and I got carried away again. It was a huge pity though, that my presence was wrong. Someone should have been here with her instead. Dinner was Ala carte at south beach restaurant. (Small) crab racing was on at night. There was just some magic watching how bids are taken and then the race itself. There is just so much beauty on the island, you can literally recharge your mana here. Enjoying it so much.
25 June 2014, Cloudy, Mana Island
Woke up with a good stretch at the beach. From the land, you can actually see how the corals break the large pacific waves and how they become small waves as they reach the island. In the morning, we first played at the slides. It was really fun! I got carried away and forgot to remove my spectacles before a jump, losing it to the depths. Fortunately, Cherry got the help of a local diver to retrieved. I was soooo relieved and grateful. We then went to look at the corals of the south side. I think corals on the south side are prettier, with many fishes as well. All of us were so obsessed with getting good pictures that we suffered many cuts and abrasions on our legs and arms. Well worth it for the beautiful pictures. Lunch was at north beach buffet again. Sent postcards. After a slight rest, we went kayaking. Cherry was a tad too confident and wanted to try a solo kayak. After a few fails at trying to control her kayak, she decided she have to do a 2-player kayak with me. Not as easy as it seems eh? We then went to catch sunset at sunset beach. People are hyped up at the view, however, I was not.
Okay so, it was quite nice after all. Dinner was at the same place. It was the first time I almost got angry with the Fijians. There were many people, but there was no sense of urgency from the staff at all. They served bun without water. They took so long to come take our order. I almost wanted to go scold their staff, but the atmosphere makes it difficult to do so. This is definitely going into the feedback. One of the staff tried t be nice to us though. On a side note, I made a conclusion from all the small talk over dinner. There is no one good parenting system. While Singapore taught me to be polite and considerate, China's parenting has taught Cherry ti be caring and have initiative to serve. After dinner, we went to watch traditional dance, followed by the Australian tradition: 'anyhow dance'. Be like an Australian and dance in the anyhow dance: achievement unlocked! Stars were crazily beautiful, star dust so visible.
26 June 2014, Clear, Mana Island > Nadi
While Cherry's family friends are still curious about the beauty of the corals, Cherry and I found it not worth the swimming and cuts anymore. Did some administrative stuff, accounts, then went to see the Chapel that caught Cherry's attention on the way to sunset beach yesterday. Weather was hot, but the clear sky actually helped us take great pictures along the way. More quality chatting time with Cherry, was enlightening from my viewpoint. I never knew I came this far in one year of opening up to the other half. Upon reaching the chapel, my recce skills were activated! We creeped into private property and took some very beautiful pictures with the chapel.
Went back to find the whole gang interested in the chapel, so we went back again in the hot sun. Took a full tour group picture. It really makes for a good family photo... Lunch was the buffet again. Took ferry back to Nadi island, Raffles Gateway Hotel. We taxi'ed out for time to buy souvenirs. Dinner was at the same place. Both Cherry and I agreed that we should not keep eating at the same seafood restaurant and should try some local Fijian food, but the more 'adult' adults made the decision. Cherry and I bought a local popsicle, which made her really happy. This dinner was great! The fish is really good and the lobster was really tasty!Being really nice, Cherry's parents let me eat the entire lobster head. They think I was too courteous. On the taxi back, I learnt that not all Fijians were nice after all. The taxi driver wanted to charge me $3 more for extra waiting. Had an early night.
27 June 2014, Clear, Nadi > Sydney
Woke up early in the morning to go fishing after a brief breakfast. Tried my hands at hand-line fishing for the first time. It is very exciting! Our boat was greeted by the beautiful rainbow sunrise. It was the brightest rainbow I have seen yet, with a triple rainbow. We had no luck with big fishes using trawl fishing, but we got many smaller ones using hand-line fishing. It is funny. You only need a fishing line, hook, and bait. All you need to do is to hook the bait, lower the line, and feel the line for a tug. The excitement when you feel the tug in the line! I caught a grouper, a very tasty fish! We all caught a total of 20 fish and released 1 because it was juvenile. I salute Cherry's dad for releasing that small fish for it to grow.We went back to Sentai to have the fish cooked. It was the first time I experienced eating fresh fish that we just caught, very fresh and tasty indeed. After the great fish meal, we headed back to the airport. There, I got Cherry some Fijian souvenirs. Time to do the crazy thing, hop on two international flights with 55 minute interval. I managed to do it, mainly because the plane I am taking from Fiji to Sydney is also the same plane that is flying from Sydney to Christchurch, one delay just led to another. It was a huge success and I am very lucky indeed. The awkward moment when the air stewardess recognized me in the second flight as the guy who dropped the boarding pass straight through the gap between the boarding gate and the plane. Onward to the next trip with my Singapore exchange friends in New Zealand!
24th Birthday
This year's 24th birthday was a really special one. It was the first time I have two home-made cakes from two sweet girls. I was really touched that I had both cakes. On 17th June, I cut a blueberry cheesecake made by Xinran, followed by a dinner at Nandos with 4 girls. We really make a gang, haha! On 21st June, some of us went to Golden Drum dimsum buffet. At night, I was asked to go to Andy's place. We drank rum, and ate the chocolate that Cherry (main baker) and Andy made. Some of the most interesting presents include a 'Happy Package' from Karen, and a Chinese fan from John Zhang. I was really touched. I was really lucky to celebrate my 24th on an exchange.
By the way, the post dragged so late because I went travelling and had no time to do it. Look for the next posts!
This year's 24th birthday was a really special one. It was the first time I have two home-made cakes from two sweet girls. I was really touched that I had both cakes. On 17th June, I cut a blueberry cheesecake made by Xinran, followed by a dinner at Nandos with 4 girls. We really make a gang, haha! On 21st June, some of us went to Golden Drum dimsum buffet. At night, I was asked to go to Andy's place. We drank rum, and ate the chocolate that Cherry (main baker) and Andy made. Some of the most interesting presents include a 'Happy Package' from Karen, and a Chinese fan from John Zhang. I was really touched. I was really lucky to celebrate my 24th on an exchange.
By the way, the post dragged so late because I went travelling and had no time to do it. Look for the next posts!
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