Wow, as first impressions go, I’m impressed. I was happy we finally arrived in the green season in Costa Rica. It was a nice and easy transition through the borders. As well as nice and easy-to-understand buses. Plus, we didn’t get ripped off getting the local bus. We were off to a great start. We arrived early afternoon in Playas del Coco, a nice beachside village. It did look set up for the holidaymakers but the sun was out. So no complaints.
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Straight Down to Business in the Green Season in Costa Rica
We did all the small things like sim cards, buying food, and booking activities. We were in Playas del Coco for my friend to be able to do some diving. She is an experienced diver so only she could do them but she said they were amazing!! She saw bull sharks, how awesome. I on the other hand just kicked back and worked on topping up my tan. The sea didn’t look that inviting here but the sun was out in the morning so I made the most of it. I was a little ill so had to visit a doctor for some antibiotics. Therefore, all I could do was rest to make sure I would fully recover.
The Next Stop was La Fortuna
Well, I knew there was a volcano here called Volcan Arenal but I had never seen a picture of it. To be honest, by this point, I had seen many volcanos. A volcano is a volcano, right? Wrong. This one was massive and only came out from behind the cloud as we drove into the town. I was lost for words, this volcano stood so high and wide, really commending the attention it gets from many tourists per year. What a great first impression of this town!
The green season in Costa Rica was in full swing. We got soaked by the rain each day. Locals even said this was the worst rainy season they have had for a while. However, we didn’t let that stop us from visiting the river swing. Even though as we arrived the heavens opened and the rain then didn’t let up for the rest of the day. The other attraction we did here was the sloth park. It was perfect visiting just after a rain storm and following tours around so you can find the animals without paying extra. The budget backpacker way.
The Final Stop for The Week Was Monteverde
Wow. The journey by bus around Costa Rica is long and takes a day. Why? Well, you end up getting three or four buses between each destination. There is a lack of direct buses unless you opted for the tourist shuttles. However, the local buses are fine just a bit of a wait between the connecting ones. For the price difference, the wait is worth it. Costa Rica is not the cheapest of destinations so saving a bit of money on transport helps the budget.
Typhoon Monteverde
Yep. The green season in Costa Rica really delivered. A typhoon in July. I managed to get out on a nighttime jungle walk which was fantastic even though I hate creepy crawlies. The guide was great and entertaining. The rains held up and I saw many animals including a green pit viper snake. It was a great experience.
Yet, other than that the attractions were closed throughout Monteverde due to the weather. So, I planned out our next destinations and got some life admin done from the comfort of my bed whilst the rain pounded on the window.
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The beautiful Fraser Island is listed as a World Heritage Island located off the southern region of Queensland. The largest sandbar island that stretches a total of 123 km in length and 22 km in width. A very popular tourist destination for families and young backpackers. So, after driving up from Sydney on our Australian Road Trip. We went on a Fraser Island Tour. A three-day trip across to Fraser Island, where we didn’t have to drive. What a welcome relief.
Fraser Island Tour Day 1: Lake Birrabeen – Lake Wabby
So, this day was eventful. Our first day on Fraser Island. We chose the tour with the self-driving 4×4 jeeps. There was a total of 4 jeeps with about 6/8 people in each. With the groups sorted the night before, we just had to load the jeeps and hit the road. It felt so good not having to drive. A short ferry ride over, we were ready for a new adventure.
First Stop of the Trip Lake Birrabeen…
Here, we had our lunch by the gorgeous lake. This lake has white sand lining the shores, cool crystal-clear water. However, this differs slightly as it sits above sea level. It is a collection of rainwater with no streams or rivers. A perched lake. What is amazing, is that all organic matter is filtered out. So, you won’t find any living things in the water. How crazy!!
When we were ready to move on… there was a problem. One of the jeeps wouldn’t start. So, with the guide, we raced back to the ferry to collect another jeep. The speed was faster than the drive out to Lake Birrabeen but so much more fun. As we hit the bumpy sandy road. The 4×4 driving that I am used to.
An Afternoon at Lake Wabby…
Well… after the detour put us kind of, of schedule. We still made our way to Lake Wabby. Again, a perched dune lake just like the 40 other lakes on Fraser Island. However, this is the deepest at 11.4 metres and the least acidic. Plenty of life in this lake so don’t be surprised if something swims against you. This lake is surrounded by giant sand dunes which one day will fill the emerald-colored lake. This place was fun as you can roll down the bank and go swimming… well if you are me, get pushed into the water!! The group were all getting along and were all laid back.
Due to all the commotion with the jeep. We found ourselves finishing the long walk back in the dark with minimal light sources between us. Normally, the group would be safe at camp by now. However, despite the non-optimal conditions, we made it back only with a few stumped toes.
Luckily, the camp was already set up. So, dinner, drinks, and fun before bed rounded off a great day. What a fun start to the Fraser Island Tour!
Fraser Island Tour Day 2: Shipwreck – Champagne Pools – Indian Head – Eli Creek
The second day was action-packed. Starting our day driving to the shipwreck along the famous 75-mile beach. A pure sand beach that runs for a whopping 75 miles. An old ship who couldn’t beat the unbelievable strong currents in the sea at Fraser Island lays here. This shipwreck gets buried deeper in the sand with each passing year. One day it will be completely buried if it is not already. The sea here is way too dangerous to swim in because of the waves and currents. Also, due to the likelihood of sharks swimming around. Great White Sharks to be precise.
A Relax in the Champagne Pools…
After, a long walk in the sun across an easy boardwalk you reach these awesome pools of water. They are heated nicely from the sun. As well as, a rock wall that protects you from the sea. Plus, these cool organisms live on the rocks and you press them and out squirts water… a mini water gun!
A viewpoint at Indian Head…
Indian Head is a viewpoint which looks over the sea. It was a small climb up but nothing dangerous. One part is a sacred site for the aboriginals so don’t be that person and climb all over it! However, there were some people who clearly didn’t listen. The view across the bay was insane. When I think of Australia I think about beaches like this. The golden sand between your toes. The waves in the sea. Imagining you can surf them all. I can’t surf, so my imagination is all I have here. The water is so clear that we were able to see a Minke Whale swim on through. My first ever Whale. Exciting.
Floating Down the Eli Creek…
Yep. This island even has a lazy river. Simply, walk to the start, plop yourself in the water and float on down. If you are like me, you will do it again and again. I love being in the water. It wasn’t that quick and quite shallow but still relaxing. The sun was still out. My tan was coming along nicely. Bliss.
Our Final Night…
So, we cooked dinner as our mini-group. Basically, each 4×4 was in charge of their own food and drink. You purchase it all then bring it over with you. Make sure you bring enough to drink! We ate another good dinner and the drinks were following nicely… too nicely some might say.
We are all having fun and the next minute one of the girls ran out screamed… it’s only 10 pm. Yes everyone was way past drunk including me by 10 pm. You see when on the island you really don’t have any concept of time… we weren’t glued to our phones. This was nice. It felt like a total disconnect from the world. You could almost pretend you were on a deserted island but with others, food and transport.
The night of drinking continued. But, as it got chilly, we went into the back of the 4×4 and that’s when the dingos came. Dingos can be described as wild dogs but here on Fraser Island, they aren’t scared of humans. The group who were on the beach came back and scared them all off. Phew.
Fraser Island Tour Day 3: Lake Mackenzie – Kingfisher Bay
The final day and the final lake. Lake Mackenzie. Wow! This is breath-taking. The crystal-clear freshwater was amazing. This is the most visited lake on the island. When you see it with your own eyes it’s easy to why. The picture-perfect white sand squeaking beneath your feet. The water was a nice 22 degrees and refreshing. A perfect spot to relax for the last morning on Fraser Island.
Kingfisher Bay…
At long last, we arrived at Kingfisher Bay. The ferry port to get back across the water. Hungover from the night before and about to get on the ferry… I wasn’t feeling great. Plus, I get seasick. The ferry ride back over wasn’t a bundle of laughs for me. I hung out at the back praying not to be sick.
Finally, back on land. What a fun-filled three days on the Fraser Island Tour, non-stop laughter. However, after no shower, I was happy to freshen up and sleep away the hangover. I definitely, recommend booking the tour for this one. You can just kick back and drink all day. Unless you want to drive obviously.
Australia has plenty of group tours available all over the country. I even did the Ayers rock tour.
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This was the start of our road trip through the Canadian Rockies. We drove from Vancouver. Therefore for us, we entered Glacier National Park and then drive through Yoho National Park. Before hitting Banff and Jasper National Parks. Yes, they are all close together which is convenient. Yet, they do span a vast amount of BC and Alberta.
Rodger’s Pass Highway, Glacier National Park
I was ready to take on what is one of the most dangerous roads in North America. I suspected they are speaking about the Winter Season when it’s covered in snow. However, it was summer and the sun was shining. Rodger’s Pass winds its way through a gorgeous mountain range making this scenic drive simply magnificent. In every direction, you are surrounded by mountains.
Hemlock Grove, Yoho National Park
After a fair few hours of driving, we fancied stretching our legs. So, we stopped in at Hemlock Grove. This was a quiet boardwalk through old-growth forests. The path led us up close and personal with the soaring ancient Hemlock trees. The walk beneath the canopy is a cool relief from the sun burning down.
Rodger’s Pass Discovery Centre
I would describe the Discovery Centre as a mini-museum. To be able to enter all you do is show your park pass. It is small and informative but I find learning enjoyable. Although there was not much on display I still enjoyed it. The museum detailed the history of Rodger’s Pass and what wildlife lives in Yoho National Park.
Northern Lights Wildlife Wolf Centre, Golden, BC
I kept this stop as a surprise for my friend. Google maps was used as this place was really in the middle of nowhere. She definitely was surprised as we pulled into the car park. We went to a small unique sanctuary for wolves. We even timed it to perfection arriving at the start of the talk. The host was very knowledgeable and the talk was informative. We learnt a lot and saw wolves, therefore, it was worth a detour.
Kicking Horse River
The Kicking Horse River is very powerful and loud. However, we found a picturesque free spot for the night. It was beautiful. Nice and relaxing, a real winner in free camping spots. We left early in the morning to continue the adventure. Leaving the nature spot just as we found it.
Natural Bridge Over The Kicking Horse River, Yoho National Park
As always, we enjoy stopping off at most of the viewpoints along the highway. This breaks up the drive and we get to see the awesome natural wonders of Yoho National Park. In addition, this stop was no different. The natural bridge is a naturally shaped rock formation and extends the entire width of the Kicking Horse River. Sculpted by the erosive forces of the rushing water.
Emerald Lake, Yoho National Park
This was one lake I was really excited to see; well if I’m honest I was enthusiastic about everything. So, when I saw the deep vibrant turquoise colour as the sun peaked through the morning clouds; I was beyond ecstatic. This is a glacier-fed lake like most of them in the park. The colour forms because of the slit that streams into the lake. Well worth a stop!
Takakkaw Falls, Yoho National Park
This giant waterfall stood at 260m with a waterwheel starting the flow. A waterwheel is where the water shoots upwards before rushing back down. This was impressive to watch. The short walk from the car park led us across a bridge to the waterfall. The waterfall is in view for most of the walk. The weather wasn’t great which meant the crowds were quiet. The water pounds down leaving you covered in spray.
Spiral Train Tunnels, Yoho National Park
As we drove back down from the Takakkaw Falls to Rodgers Pass we pulled into a spot for some lunch. This spot was one of the two viewing platforms for the Spinal Tunnel. We didn’t know about this until a nice guy explained it to us. We were lucky to see the train pass through the tunnel. Trains are mostly cargo in Canada and can be up to 2 miles in length. Therefore, it did take some minutes for the whole train to pass.
What a Start to The Rockies
These two National Parks kicked started the excitement for Jasper National Park and Banff National Park. The scenery was incredible and the drive was pleasant. The breathtaking views made this trip worthwhile.
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The town of Banff is a very popular place to visit for tourists. Therefore, booking hotels or tours in advance is a must. This town was founded in 1883 when the Canadian Pacific Railway ran alongside the Bow River. The town is within the Banff National Park boundaries.
Therefore, you need a pass to enter. The pass costs around $10 for a day. We were on our road trip meaning we had a year pass for around $70 per person. The year pass is more cost-effective if you are visiting different National Parks and visiting for consecutive days.
Vermilion Lakes – The Lakes that Border Banff Town
These lakes are a network of marshlands. They sit just outside of the town of Banff. These lakes are not glacier-fed like so many in Banff National Park. In the backdrop, you see Sulphur Mountain and Mount Rundle. Also, with the sun in the right direction, you can see the reflection of Mount Rundle on the water. This is home to a short boardwalk through some marshlands and a perfect place for a relaxing sunset.
The Historic Banff Town – Shopping and Restaurants
The town of Banff offers a range of restaurants, bars, and shops mixed with some art galleries. Also, many mountains surround the town giving you incredible views no matter which way you look. If you like a good keepsake, you can find these along Banff Avenue or Bear Street.
BeaverTails – Trying One of Canada’s Most Famous Foods
We had to try BeaverTails, a popular dessert or sweet snack. I opted for the Oreo flavour (I had an Oreo obsession at one point). If you Google foods to try in Canada, these pop up on your search. I am one for having a sweet tooth therefore I was in heaven. These were so tasty and a perfect afternoon treat. It was the sugar fix that I required. Yes… this fix is basically needed daily for me.
Cave and Basin National Historic Site – Banff Town
The Sulphur Mountain Cave and Basin was where the National Park began. There is a mini-museum which is very informative detailing information about the area. It doesn’t take much time to wander around. This hot spring cavern is one of nine on Sulphur Mountain yet the only one that can fit people in. It’s called Sulphur Mountain for a reason so expect a smell when entering the cave.
A Short Trail Hike to Sundance Canyon
There are many trails to do around this site. We decided on the Sundance Trail which was 4.3 km with a small elevation of 145 metres. Perfect. We didn’t want to be scaling any mountains today. The walk was causal and eventfully entered a small forest alongside the Bow River. Then you head down into the small canyon. The walk is the same way back to the car.
The walk was a good stretch of the legs. However, as we started the walk back big black clouds replaced the blue skies. We weren’t planning on going so far. So, we didn’t have our waterproofs with us. We raced back to try and beat the rain. Yep! You probably know how this ended.
We didn’t make it back to the car before the heavens opened… we got absolutely soaked. You can always count on the weather… not!
Banff Upper Hot Springs
When I think of hot springs in Canada, I am picturing a pool in the middle of nowhere. Not a ‘Spa’ facility. The Banff Upper Springs is quite small but a very popular stop with everybody. I refused to go in as it was too full but my friend did and she enjoyed the experience. The evening time was quieter and a little more relaxing (fewer people less noise). However, still, something that I wouldn’t enjoy.
Viewing the HooDoos at Tunnel Mountain
In the end, we chose to drive up Tunnel Mountain Road to take a look at The HooDoos. Although, there is a hike you can do that takes you closer to the hoodoos. HooDoos contain sedimentary rock covered by a harder rock which makes it harder to erode. Once softer sediment erodes rock needles or tower-like natural obstacles form known as Hoodoos.
Bow River – The River Runs from Bow Lake to Calgary
The Bow River is breathtaking and a marvellous bit of nature here within the National Parks. It flows for an impressive 587 km from the source at Bow Lake to Calgary, Alberta. There are many things to do along the river such as kayaking. In the town of Banff near Fairmount Hotel, there is Bow Falls.
This waterfall is short and wide yet still so powerful. From mid-summer, you can feel the mist on your face due to the high water levels. The high water level is due to all the snowmelt in the region. The undisturbed view back down the valley is breathtaking. The river winded its way into the distance. There are no words to describe the sheer beauty of the Bow River.
Summary of a Day Visit in Banff Town
Banff is well worth the visit. A day can be well spent visiting all the major spots on offer. We planned which hikes we wanted to do in advance and none of them were in Banff. There are plenty of hikes in and around Banff however you need more than one day!
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So as part of our South American trip for us, the Galapagos Islands couldn’t be missed. We saved extra money especially to experience the uniqueness of these Ecuadorian Islands. The excitement was definitely reaching fever pitch. A week in nature with wildlife unique to this area. A week of being in the sea and sand between my toes. I couldn’t be happier. I grew up by the sea and it is still my favourite place. Although, The Mountains now come a very close second.
Day 1 – Galapagos Islands: A Day Spent in Puerto Ayora on Santa Cruz Island
This is was our first full day on the island of Santa Cruz… apparently, October is the cool and dry time of the year with highs of 22 degrees. Well, being from England this still felt like summer to us. We opted for day tours to see areas as the cruises didn’t have any good last-minute deals. However, October is meant to be a good time for them. Your best bet to snag one of them is at the port by the airport not down in Santa Cruz. Or you can book a cruise in advance. These are on the pricey side but perfect if you are just taking a holiday.
A Visit to The Charles Darwin Centre on The Galapagos Islands
Our first adventure for the day was to the Charles Darwin Centre. The centre showcases all the conservation work going on to preserve the endangered species on the islands. Galapagos Giant Tortoise are impressive in size and can only be found here. These islands helped shape Darwin’s Theory of Natural Selection. And you can find all the information you need here at the Charles Darwin Centre.
An Afternoon at the Las Grietas
Las Grietas is an unknown adventure as it isn’t advertised. However, it is worth the visit. We were shockingly surprised this wasn’t spoken about more… maybe they were hoping to leave it as a local’s spot. An afternoon of fun. First, you catch the inexpensive water taxi across the water to the other side. Although, there is a little walking involved. It is simple enough as you follow the path. The walk is a little rocky but we did it in flip-flops with no problems.
On the way to the final destination, we were surprised by a mini, pink salt flat. The walk is pretty with views back across the bay. We walked past the beach to the spot we were hoping to find. Las Grietas. This was an awesome unique swimming spot. It is a small channel of water between two volcanic rocks. Also, the water is turquoise in colour making it so inviting. Snorkeling is allowed and there is plenty of small fish to spot.
Day 2: A Day Boat Trip to Island Prizon
We were more than ready to be on that boat. Our first of three trips. It was a cool, windy overcast day as we set off from the dock with the tour group. We prayed that the sun came out. Along with the tour we were lent short wetsuits and snorkels.
The First Snorkel
Our first snorkel of the day was around a shallow bay where sea lions were the entertainment. They are very playful. The visibility was good. We swam around. There was plenty of sea life such as many different varieties of fish, sea turtles, and stingrays. String-rays always give me a heart attack. I don’t like swimming near them. However, we were told these ones don’t sting. I’m not sure how true that is but I believed it at the time.
No one warned us how cold the sea was. I know we were there in October so a cooler month but it was worse than England’s sea temperature. In my eyes that is saying something. I go in the sea at home in the summer (England) in just a swimsuit. Crazy to think here the short wetsuit wasn’t enough to protect me from the freezing cold!!
A Walk Around Island Prizon
This stop was a short walk around the rocky coastline of the inhabited (well by humans) island. Island Prizon is in the middle of the sea. This island was home to the blue-footed booby. They actually get their name because they nest in the open. It was nesting season so we got to see it first-hand. Nests just lay there ready for predators to attack. Let’s hope they are good at defence.
The Second and Third Snorkel
Still freezing and no sun to warm us up yet; our guide was nice enough to combine the last two snorkels together. We opted out of the first half because around a rocky coastline to see green sea turtles. We had already seen many of them so getting warmer to enjoy the last part was our priority. With the sun breaking through we managed to warm up in time for the second part. Yes, I love it when a plan comes together. Of we jumped into the freezing sea again and caught up with the group.
This section was around a bay and the mammal we were looking for needed to be ticked off my list… White-tip Reef Sharks. Yes, that’s right… sharks. Sharks of the non-scary, non-human biting kind. I hovered still and quiet over about four or five of them. I didn’t finish counting before a member of the group who clearly lacked snorkel experience scared them all away!!
My friend who lacked speed in the water only because she was flipperless. A sore toe meant she couldn’t use them so she spent her time behind the group. This was a good thing because as she swam back to the boat. The sharks were swimming along with her. What a bonus.
Day 3: My First Ever Scuba Dive at Seymour
This nearly never happened. I went back and forth so many times. Yes, I can conquer this; actually, no I can’t. After a night of persuading me, my friend took me with her to the dive shop. Luckily, I was in luck they had a space on their beginner boat. The nerves really started to set in. I was quiet the whole boat ride out to the dive spot.
Finally, it was my turn. I don’t have a PADI so down with the instructor I went. I tried to go down once but failed. My goggles filled with water. I switched them out and down I went again. I had a session in the pool before coming but it wasn’t the same. Once under and distracted by all the awesome sea life I began to relax.
Sea lions kept me company for a couple of seconds rolling as they came past. However, the highlight was these small blue sea slugs pointing out from a rock. Only after, I discovered that these are a rare find. What a bonus to one of the most incredible experiences ever!!! I don’t know why I was so scared, to begin with. I definitely will do this again.
Day 4: Island Isabela, Galapagos Islands
Another early start like our whole trip to be fair. There was once a time when you wouldn’t have me awake so early. However, as my days are filled with new adventures and new people waking up has never been easier. I was ready and raring to go. The ferry took us to Island Isabela, more of a local island, and much less touristy than Santa Cruz. After a smooth ferry over, we found accommodation and set off to explore.
A Boardwalk Around the Mangroves
There is a nice stroll along a boardwalk that went through the mangroves and out to an open bay. Around this beach area, sea lions were high in numbers as well as marine iguanas. This is a reptile unique to just the Galapagos Islands. The marine iguana is the only lizard that forges at sea. This is incredible and a great showcase for adapting to the environment around you.
Afternoon Spent Walking Around Island Isabela
After a much-needed rest and refill, we were ready to set off and find the tortoise breeding centre. This turned out to be a much longer walk than expected but with different landscapes to keep us entertained. We found the Galapagos flamingo as we strolled around the wetlands. It was a long but easy walk as it was all flat.
We made it back in time for sunset at the beach. I do love a good sunset and this one didn’t disappoint. Well, do sunsets ever!!
Day 5: A Boat Trip to the Lava Tunnels
This was our final full day here, and of course what else would we do? That’s right, we had another snorkel planned as this is a good way to see sea life. The lava tunnels are a popular choice and it only leaves from Island Isobel. Although, you can book it from Santa Cruz. This was the best one yet as luck was on our side. We were expecting penguins so when the guide told us we would be lucky if we saw one. We got a little disappointed.
As we headed to our destination, we were greeted with manta rays swimming past. They are so magnificent and graceful as they glide through the water. Also, there is something that only happens four times a year in the Galapagos Islands. A large pod of dolphins making its way through. Yes, that’s right we saw that too.
The lava tunnels were fun to snorkel around and as well as walk around. Again, this was a blue-footed boobie nesting site. The second snorkel was through quite shallow water so easy to tear up the sediment at the bottom. It did obstruct the visibility a little. Again, there was someone who couldn’t control the flippers… how annoying. Trying to get away from him and when we did.
The Amazing Wildlife…
The biggest string rays I have ever seen. I didn’t realise they could get so big. I’m talking way over 2 metres wide how impressive is that? I was nervous to swim over the top of them. As I started to swim over him he went on his merry way with such grace. Any ray swimming is incredible to witness as they make it look so effortless. Also, among this rocky bay lived some whit-tip reef sharks, again of an impressive size. Also, something I haven’t seen before… a collection of sea horses. This was fresh and exciting.
This was a day that kept on giving. From the moment we got onto the boat till the moment we docked. As we swam back to the boat this snorkel had one last surprise. Can you guess? The moment we had hoped would happen. The reason why we chose this day tour. Minding our business tired from the long snorkel suddenly the call out from our guide. There it was all alone resting at sea.
A PENGUIN!!!!!
Just when we fought it was all over. The one animal we really wanted to see. Yes! This moment is so engrained into my memory I can picture it so clearly. We hovered in one place for what felt like ages and then suddenly the penguin dived down right in front of us. Undisturbed view of this incredible encounter. Words could not describe the happiness and excitement at that moment. WHAT A DAY!
Summary of the Best Week in the Galapagos Islands
Wow! This week left me speechless. Wildlife in its abundance. New experiences and many many vivid memories were made. This is one week I never will forget. I think you can guess what I am going to say. That’s right if you are in South America you have to make time and a budget for the Galapagos Islands. It felt like paradise every moment we were there. On every trip outside we encountered a variety of different species. What a magical week. A dream destination.