The van is up and running, but we can’t hit the road just yet. So, with some time to waste, and a passport to fill, we had decided Australia was a great destination. Add in the fact that we know people in the country and the US dollar is strong—how could we resist spending a month in the Aussie summertime.
After arriving in Sydney in a late afternoon and getting a good nights rest to shake of the jet lag, we awoke ready to go! Packing and hit the road with our new Aussie family was fantastic.
We left for a drive along the bays and overlooks of the East coast of Australia. The scenery did not disappoint. Huge gum trees, thick bush and green/blue mountains filled the windows.
The stop at the Nan Tien Buddhist temple was amazing. It was a place of great beauty and opulence. The gardens are immaculate and vast. There are several different buildings with temples, classrooms a gift shop and a museum as well as a teahouse. No photos were allowed in the temples, but each one included information signs which helped us to understand the offerings and symbols.
Our first scenic overlook set the tone for the white sand beaches and blue seas to come.
The home at Jervis Bay was incredible. It was a modern style beach house with decks, patios and lots of glass. What a perfect way to rekindle the relationships and unwind from the travel days. We lazed around the house, played and walked along the beach and enjoyed meals together.
As the weekend wrapped up, we prepared to strike out on our own. We would drive down the East coast of Australia (through the states of New South Wales and Victoria) bound for Tasmania. We were either going to ferry or fly over to the island for a visit.
Off we go, with Mike driving on the left side of the road and shifting gears with his left hand. Here comes the adventure.
Great pictures and a terrific travelogue.
The beginning of your trip looks beautiful and your right nice house. what are you driving in?
I was there and it was awesome!