Hawaii is known for being a tropical paradise complete with palm trees, turquoise waters, and volcanic scenery. For a shock of nature unlike anywhere else in the world plan a trip to the Na Pali Coast on Kauai. Dramatic green ridges plunge into the crystal blue Pacific Ocean. Sandy beaches speckle the coast as waterfalls hide in the valleys. While there are easier ways to see the Na Pali Coast, those who dream of adventure should hike the Kalalau Trail.
Looking at a map, Fiordland National Park takes up a huge section of New Zealand. Visiting the famous, but small, Milford Sound didn’t seem to do the Fiordlands justice. I wanted to see more of the awesome beauty this national park had to offer and my guidebook recommended Doubtful Sound. Although many people skip it, it’s just as beautiful and dramatic as its sister Milford. It’s also much less touristy because only tour operators are permitted and you cant drive yourself. I wanted to do something more exciting than a boat tour and kayaking seemed like a full day of fun and exercise. Kayaking Doubtful Sound was one of my favorite experiences during my entire New Zealand trip.
I have a travel story for you. One of those stories that isn’t funny while it’s happening but gives you a good giggle after. So I would happily like to present….
My 1st travel story that is sure to make you pack your bags.
I was recently in Litchfield National Park, an hour drive from Darwin, Australia. I forgot it was a weekend and unfortunately there were people everywhere. I spent the day checking out some beautiful waterfalls like Buley Rockhole and Wangi Falls. While these spots were refreshing they were not relaxing. There were too many people. By the time I drove to The Cascades and saw the jam-packed parking lot I decided to call it a day. I didn’t want to sit in another waterfall with a hundred other people. I was going to save The Cascades for early the next morning.
After spending 4 days on a boat I was eager to stretch my legs, so I ventured up to the Atherton Tablelands. This is an area inland from Cairns known for its waterfalls, dairy, and farmlands. I was interested in exploring the area and doing the Waterfall Circuit Drive so I rented a car and took off! Well, not at the fastest speeds. This was my first time driving on the left side of the road and it took some getting used to. How hard could it be driving on some lazy country roads? Or as it turned out, some narrow, switch-back jungle roads. Thankfully the drive was only an hour and a half long. I guess that’s one way to learn.
As I gained elevation it thankfully cooled off, but it was also a rainy day. That wasn’t going to stop me! My first stop was Lake Eacham, one of the two crater lakes in the Tablelands. Originally I didn’t plan to stop here, but the sign said it was only 2 km away and I couldn’t resist. Driving up to the lake reminded me of the jeep scene in Jurassic Park. I was expecting Mr. T-Rex to come out at any second. (Must go faster!!!)
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