Surfers Paradise, Gold Coast, Australia

Australia’s Gold Coast

Our first Australian destination is the Gold Coast – the region located midway up the vast east coast of the country. The popular tourist destination known as Surfer’s Paradise is our starting point.

We spent our first week just north of Surfer’s in an area called Biggera Waters, which is a labyrinth of islands, canals, waterways, and a harbor built behind a spit. We rented a room from a group of musical creative friends who really knew how to live, and we really enjoyed getting to know them.

The coast line around here reminds me a lot of the southern California coast, cities, and beaches. The big difference is its scale. Australia’s east coast is enormous and there is plenty of space between towns. Populations are small so people have lots of space to breathe with no traffic to speak of.

The Australians sure know how to eat. Coming off of Asia where we’ve been used to much more modest portions, the difference is noticeable. And everyone is rather large as well. Usually fit, but large. We’ve taken to calling the older men, tube-steaks, because they are barrel shaped and tightly packed.

We find the Australians to be so outspoken and outgoing. Their accent alone sounds so elongated and expressive, and they speak to anyone with great enthusiasm. They also abbreviate all their words and names with cute sounding endings – sunnys (sunglasses), swimmies (bathing suits), pokies (poker tables), Fishies (Fisherman’s Warf).

Our next two weeks are being spent on the Island of Capri, located just behind Surfer’s Paradise. This allows us easy five minute walks to surfing beaches and fun beachy nightlife.

Vanilla / Cinnamon / Honey / Mint / Blueberries / Strawberries
Thanks to Rachelle, our housemate, for some delicious home crafted treats.





















Roasted chicken / Pumpkin / Peas / Cheesy Baked Scalloped Potatoes























































































I give skim-boarding instructions to German tourists, so they can improve their fitness.