# Let The Real Journey Begin ## Posts - [20th Of September Santorini](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/21/20th-of-september/): This morning Jo and I booked into an art class with our new friend Allison at Aegan Designs. We had the best morning learning to paint on fabric outside in her studio listening to great music and being photographed by lots of fellow tourists! (Not to forget topping up the lippy!) We both really enjoyed it a lot and came out with 2 nice pieces and ready to do more, boys pretty impressed too! Alison was fantastic to meet in Santorini, she has a beautiful Gallery, she is a talented lady and thank her for all her spot on recommendations, Kamari […] - [19th of September Santorini](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/21/19th-of-september-santorini/): Santorini – this morning Peter and I went for a walk towards Oia and checked out a few of the other hotels to stay at next time! Mid morning the five of us went for a walk into Fira, as the shopping is full on hectic here we found a lovely little Aussie bar overlooking the sea to sit the boys in!, the TROPICAL bar- inside joke, happy boys footy on, hot bar girl what more could they ask for.Kirstie and Peter needed some work done on their feet so_ Shopping unsuccessful walked back to our Villa- few shots on the […] - [18th September Santorini](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/21/18th-september-santorini/): Santorini Jo and Ged found the local bakery yesterday found the local bakery which was not good for us as it was way too good! The best custard filo pastry on the planet, so lucky we can’t eat these more often, so that was breakfast for three days, as we knew we couldn’t find these again! So today was our beach day, off by local bus to Kamari beach, easier said than done! This trip by bus was an experience in the local way! I wish we had a spy cam, they completely fill the bus to maximum capacity, then the […] - [17th of September Santorini](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/18/17th-of-september/): We had a bit of a sleep in and woke up to an amazing view from our bed. , before we all walked down to Fira for breakfast overlooking the sea.Just a couple of this mornings photos before breakfast- We wandered around the little shops and came across the dress up photo place behind the “Women’s Paradise ” shop .Kirstie thought there must be something wrong with the four of us, as we where crying laughing so much dressing up together.   We stopped and had a drink of the local Rose at a roof top bar my new friend Niko […] - [16th September welcome to Santorini!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/16/16th-september-welcome-to-santorini/): After leaving our apartment at 9am this morning we’ve just made it to Santorini flying Vueling airlines from a Rome about 1 and a half hour flight but takes nearly all day to get here and WOW! Died and gone to heaven. Ged and Jo where delayed so got to Santorini just after sunset, we celebrated with a Sangria and lots of stories before they went out for dinner and we retired early due to a big day! – - [15th of September Rome](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/15/15thseptember-rome/): On our way to St Peters- Today we got up and walked to see St Peters Basilica by 9-30, the que was pretty long but didn’t take that long to get through luckily. We bought tickets to the top 500 odd steps later, and it was magical. Also great to so after a few days in Rome as you know what your looking at. Then onto the actual Basilica, this is where I totally had a blonde day, I was so concerned about what I was wearing I forgot to look at what Kirstie was wearing, der no shorts, so she […] - [14th of September Rome](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/15/14th-of-september-rome/): A few more snaps along the way to the Colosseum by 9am- Rookie Mistake! Do Not Ever Have Photo Taken with men in Strange Suits- Particularly these P—–! First stop the Colosseum on a skip the line tour, which was very entertaining with a crazy old bloke explaining the colosseum with a children’s book, and it worked well! Yes it’s huge and incredible to think when it was built, it would of been stunning in its day. Then onto the next tour guide David for a tour of the Forum, he was young and put a completely different spin on things […] - [13 September Rome](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/15/13-september-rome/): Rome – This morning se had a sleep in due to everyone’s hectic past few days. Peter cooked breakfast before we headed out to explore Rome with Kirstie. First just around where we are staying, my first top spot to visit what else but the Trevi fountain, but guess what just for a change it’s fully under repair. Hopes and dreams of visiting the Trevi fountain with my daughter dashed, but by this stage it just gets too funny. In Europe every where we have been every major site is under repair, 2014 is not the year to see these things, […] - [12th of September Rome](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/15/12th-of-september-rome/): This morning we had breakfast on the back deck of the ship before leaving  the cruise for Rome. Sad end to a fantastic 12 day cruise on the Celebrity Silhoutte, we’ve had a great time met lots of interesting people, lots of laughs and stories to tell. So we left the ship for our transfer to Rome at 9am, super excited to meet up with Kirstie, finally  after her plane was delayed, she arrived at the apartment. We had a good catch up going over what she’s been up to for the past four months, and her go pro video amazing! […] - [11 September Naples](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/15/11-september-naples/): This morning we met our driver from Ap Tours Antonio at Naples for a tour to Pompeii , Portofino and Sorrento at 8am. We spent the day with two other couples Chris and Shelley from Canada and Hannah and JD from the USA, both nice people. We where so lucky to get to Pompeii early before the crowds. Fill in later as my photos aren’t uploading. And dad asked me about Rome. - [10th September Sicily Catania](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/12/10th-september-sicily-catania/): This morning we had a tour booked to see  Toaramina which again turned out to be another beautiful place to visit, views to die for! Yet another wedding, as every tour day we have spotted a wedding going on every day of the week!  Simon was our driver for the day, he won us all over instantly with his wifi in the mini van on the way to see the sites! Simon drove along the beach way to Toaramina first stop Naxos- Then onto the top of Toaramina for some amazing views back towards the town and the amphitheater with a […] - [9th of September Valletta Malta](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/12/9th-of-september-valletta-malta/): Today the ship didn’t arrive into Malta until 1.00pm so it was great to have a slow morning. A bit of  a sun bake before coming into Valletta, which was absolutely amazing coming into by ship   .    Today Fiona organised a brilliant tour guide, (thank you Fiona!) he had just got married two days before, and every stop we made other tour guides where congratulating him. Our first stop was the Blue grotto tour, it was spectacular, loved it! This church I will try and remember the name- After the church we went to a beautiful medieval town called […] - [8th of September Katakolon Greece](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/12/8th-of-september-katakolon-greece/): We arrived in Katakolon early in the morning and as the ships internet is very slow and expensive, most of the ships occupants hit the free wifi cafés before exploring. So once we had caught up we found a taxi and ran into Jane and Rowan, and headed off to 2 local beaches, I will fill the names in later. We had a great day first at a local beach the local pharmacist told us about it defiantly was a better swimming beach than the next. A little like Shoreham beach, then with our taxi waiting we headed off to the […] - [7th of September At Sea Day!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/12/7th-of-september-at-sea-day/): Today was the at sea day, in which everyone needed to recharge as we all have been going at full pace. This morning Peter signed up for the ship tour which he enjoyed very much. While the others started the Bocce tournament that went into the night, a lot of fun this night at the Sunset bar at the back of the ship. - [6th of September Kotor Montenegro](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/06/6th-of-september-koper-montenegro/):   Up this morning at 5/30am not to miss the sail into the fiords of Montenegro, only one of 3 of us for the first hour, our new Pompey friend was happy to have new friends as he’s been getting up every morning this early! Could of been great but not so with now the theme of the tour overcast, cloudy, but ok still beautiful, that much so the ship woke the whole of Montenegro with the fog horn, once was fun but no once every two minutes for at least half an hour. Our new friend Katie from our yacht […] - [5th of September Dubrovnik](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/05/5th-of-september-dubrovnick/):   We arrived into Dubrovnik and  found a taxi to fit the six of us, which didn’t take too long. The driver took us up to where the cable car goes for the beautiful views over the town. Then he dropped us off back down by where the cable car takes off, to get into the walled town of Dubrovnik. First stop into Dubrovnik our daily wifi hit, we found a cute coffee shop, where here we sat for half an hour in silence, tapping on our iphones, once all up to date we all  climbed the city walls. The morning […] - [4th of September Split Croatia](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/05/4th-of-september-split-croatia/): We’re coming back here, fantastic day to Krka National park. We arrived in Split with no plans, so after breakfast Peter and I walked off the ship and bumped into a tour guide that offered us a trip to Krka National Park and enough time after to look around Split at the end of the day. We went off to have a coffee and free wifi to decide if we wanted to go on the tour. We tried to contact Jane, Rowan, Fiona and Pete to no avail, so we thought let’s go anyway. So we went back to our new […] - [3rd of September Ravenna back to Italy](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/05/ravenna-september-3rd-back-to-italy/): This morning we had a slow one, all the travelling catching up, so what to do ? But hit the day spa on the ship, best ever, hot beds overlooking the yacht club! Raining just for a change. l - [2nd of September Koper, Slovenia](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/02/2nd-of-september-koper-slovenia/): This morning we are up early just for a change, to meet our very Charming  guide for our day Ervin Crnovic, here’s a photo of Ervin waiting at the dock for us, it gave everyone the first laugh for the day, as Jane has nicknamed me Agent Barnes!   Unfortunately the weather is not playing the game today, after a year in the planning dreaming of the most beautiful Lake Bled, wasn’t to be! Ervin was very informative and managed to give us a fantastic tour of the most beautiful town in Slovenia. We arrived in Bled at around 10 to […] - [1st September Venice](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/02/1st-september-venice/):     Not not much wi fi fill you in later! - [31st of August Happy Birthday Kirstie!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/31/31st-of-august-happy-birthday-kirstie/): This morning I dragged Peter out of bed 5/30am for the Venice photo shoot, it was so good to walk around with hardly anyone around. We did the Typical Venice lost tour of the maze, to find the Rialto bridge, eventually found it! We both have some great photos for the effort. Arrived back at the bnb in time for a lovely breakfast beside one of the gonadal lane ways, then back to bed for a rest before boarding the ship later today. After the beauty of Lake Como, Venice is a bit of a contrast as it’s busy, dirty but […] - [30th August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/30/30th-august/): After our last breakfast sitting beside Lake Como, we caught the 9/20am local bus to  Como station for our train to Milan, then changed to train to Venice. It has been a stress free way to travel along with Lindt chocolates given out, what more could I ask for!   Arrived in Venice to beautiful weather, unbelievable crowds, and we caught the Vaparetto to St Marks Square where our hotel was not far from. It is called Locanda Orseolo, really cute, smallest bathroom you have ever seen! We got the right room here’s a photo of what’s on our wall! More […] - [29th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/29/29th-of-august/):   The office Last day here in Lake Como, sitting here listening to the sound of the waves, swans out the front so we think we are going to just chill out here at the bnb. Peter is sitting on the balcony working out a quote, waiting for the sun to come out. We walked down to the Aurora Hotel for one more wake surf before we leave Lake Como and bumped into a few of the local lads! Our chill out day before the cruise, lazing around til 3 ish then the Lake is just to flat not to hire […] - [28th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/29/28th-of-august/): This morning we started off early with our breakfast right beside the lake, before walking to the Aurora Hotel in Lezzano for Peter to tick off something else on the Bucket List! TICK, we had another absolutely fantastic day today, we booked a tour yesterday on the Bellagio water limousine service, off the Charts! Picture perfect day, beautiful boat, great tour guide, scenery plus to the most spectacular Villa del Balbianello! Cannot get any better than this , we are moving, trying to find some one who needs a care taker?sorry I can’t load any photos I’m out of room, I […] - [27th of August Part 2!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/29/27th-of-august-part-2/): Sorry I had so much trouble trying to put today together, can’t work out sometimes, so I will start again. We took the ferry over to Varenna, which from the moment you arrive there, it’s an absolutely gorgeous village. We had a walk through the village, it has lots of little shops selling local art and local produce. After that we went back to our Europe boot camp tour and climbed up the mountain to the Vezio Castle. So worth the hike up the views back to the lake are stunning, as was the castle to complete with draw bridge! Hers […] - [27th August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/29/27th-august/): This morning after a late breakfast we walked into Lezzano to find the bank and have a look around, it’s a really quiet little village one before Bellagio.   Then we caught the bus onto Bellagio and had a look around the shops and town.We had lunch at –    , then came across Janine, who owns a boat company here, she is Australian and been living here for twenty years. She gave us some great advice, to spend the afternoon across the lake at a town called Varenna. Fantastic advice we seriously loved it. It’s a really pretty old fishing […] - [26th of August Lake Como](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/26/26th-of-august-lake-como-in-search-of-george/): Our last morning in Monterosso, it’s raining which means we can’t have breakfast in the garden so Elijah set up in our room. Ultra sad to leave Monterosso as we have both really enjoyed it here. We checked out of the bnb at 11am and had to wait for the direct train to Milan at 3pm, so we had our last walk around the town and found more special places. As we where waiting at the station Jane, Rowan, Fiona and Peter arrived in Monterosso a quick catch up and our train arrived. See you in 4 days in Venice, and […] - [25th August Porto Venere](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/26/25th-august-porto-venerra/): Today lucky with the weather as we had our breakfast in the garden, Elijah has been serving us daily and he is super great! Today the sea is super rough, so the ferry cant stop at the five villages only Monterosso and Porto Venere, which turned out to be an unexpected surprise. We loved it, climbed the castle, looked around the shops, swam, sun baked and hired a boat ! A  few more snaps of just a few little yachts hanging around Port Venere We left Porto Venere on the 4pm ferry / death ride , think Wall Street movie, when […] - [24 August The Walk](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/26/24-august-the-walk/): This morning we had breakfast served in the beautiful secret garden, before heading out for the day. Today we started the walk at —– We walked to Vernazza it took about 1 and a half hours of many stairs and beautiful scenery.These photos are coming into Vernazza —- That poor old bloke was pushing a cart full of tiles up a massive hill! Had a wander through this little village and thought we had found Jo and Ged’s lunch tip, think yours was the one up the very top, which we thought we where in and later saw the other one! […] - [23rd of August day trip to Lucca](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/25/23rd-of-august-day-trip-to-lucca/): This morning we slept in a bit and it was raining, so instead of  having our breakfast in the beautiful garden, they set it up in our room- After a late start, we decided to go for a day trip to Lucca by train, as the walks where to slippery today. Big effort to get there as there was a couple of changing stations. It was a really interesting train ride, as we saw a lot of the country side, Italian homes and their veggie patches also we now know where carra marble comes from! We arrived in Lucca around 2 […] - [22 August off to Monterosso](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/24/22-august-off-to-monterosso/): This morning we left our apartment early for our train trip, I had booked tickets a few months ago, so I was nervous as to if I had allowed enough time between changing trains and getting the right towns to change to, all good and also an experience! We arrived in Monterosso at around 3pm ish, was a little blown away at how many people where here, all good! We found our apartment, could not of found a more special place!       This bnb exudes class, attention to detail is incredible, the garden, rooms, linen, cleanliness ect ect ! […] - [21 August Nice](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/24/21-august-nice/): This morning we got up early for France and went for a walk along the promenade up to castle hill, the views back to Nice and the other side stunning. Then we walked through the flower market in the old town, as they where setting up. Peter said it was his best market he has ever been to! Not only flowers, veggies, spices and home made everything, not long enough as Emmanuel serves breakfast at 9/30am. Super nice morning walk, lots of things to see through the old town! – Hows this for a work vehicle, it’s a knife sharpening door […] - [Back to the 20th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/23/back-to-the-20th-of-august/): After Monaco which was amazing place to visit for a day, we headed off to Eze OMG stunning medieval cliff town, absolutely not enough time here beautiful beyond, if I could every stay here it would be amazing! That is Eze, after a whirl around the village we where taken to Fragonard perfume factory, as 2 girls on our tour wanted to go there, and a little translation in the way, we ended up there rather than more time in Eze, here’s a photo of Peter suffering through the speal, which the girl taking it quote of the day “Men Smell […] - [19th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/21/19th-of-august/): This morning before we caught the taxi to Gare De Lyon, we had a walk back to the Eiffel Tower and along the seine for our last time in Paris, this morning only 9ish the que is out of control. Arrived at the station half an hour early, it is huge, found our train. This is the speed it got to- Its so smooth, just feels like your about to take off! It’s a pretty nice way to travel, we saw beautiful country side, rivers with the big long cruise boats, wineries ect. We arrived in nice a bit later than […] - [20th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/21/20th-of-august/): You have to see this, sorry if some are not into food photos, this is breakfast served bnb style! Not much really? Emmanuel makes all home made cakes ect, and made this early for us, as she usually serves this at 9/30 as she said French don’t do early!  Which they don’t shops don’t open til like lunch time. Today I booked a tour of the French Riviera, so ok this is where the trip gets totally out of eye sore control, especially for Peter, ridiculous cars, boats, sea scenery fest! We headed to Monaco first to beat the your buses […] - [18th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/20/18th-of-august/): This morning we started a bit late as yesterday was so huge, we walked down to the Eiffel Tower and bought tickets for the hop on off bus. It is a fantastic thing to do in Paris as it covers a huge area and every 2 seconds something else to see. On the bus they supply earplugs and give a running commentary along with French music when they are not speaking, it’s really cool! A few sites along the way – So our first stop for the day is the Notra Dame, as we didn’t have breakfast we went to try […] - [17th of August 2014](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/20/17th-of-august/): Spice stall at the market Versailles Day Another shocking day as we met our guide at a train station in the middle of Paris (forgotten the name) at 8am this morning, to train ride to Versailles where we first wandered around another sorry beautiful market, to buy our picnic lunch, before picking up the push bikes for our tour. We had such a lovely day, the weather wasn’t great, bit cool but who cares when there’s this much to see- Our picnic spot at the end of the lake, looking back at the palace You could say we loved Versailles, amazing […] - [16th of August](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/18/16th-of-august/): This morning we had our first Crepe in Paris right beside our hotel, not the best one ever, then we walked down the road, to our meeting point at Duplex rail station, to meet our guide for our 1st bike riding tour. We met our guide Pat, from Ireland along with the group of Australians for the tour. The weather today was beautiful about 25degs. The tour started bike riding around the Eiffel Tower then onto lots of sites, around every corner, it was awesome and scary. As we where riding on the road, through the traffic, but so much fun!- mAfter […] - [15th August 2014](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/16/15th-august-2014/): We had an early morning wake up call at 5am this morning, for our pick up at 6am this morning leaving Dubai for Paris.  Our flight was delayed  for nearly 3 hours, which gave us a bit of time to look around the Massive airport, and can confirm Dad your travelling days through this airport are officially over here. Trains to gates, lifts, miles  apart, we could only think of you. Finally boarded the Emirates flight  and this time we are in the first row, which  is not half as good as the back row, right near toilets, and  was entertained […] - [Continuing on-](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/16/continuing-on/): Peter has found it and this is how happy to find it he was-   So to sum the night up was fun, we’ll worth doing, probably felt the hottest in our lives, not that I’m complaining.  - [Day 2 Dubai 14th August 2014](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/15/day-2-dubai-14th-august-2014/): After a huge day yesterday we had a bit of a sleep in, late breakfast and chill by the pool in the heat! Walked over the road to yet another huge shopping centre for lunch, before our Desert Safari!  The Queen of the Mocktails in Dubai. You can almost see the whites of his eyes, a couple more days here and I think his liver would be fixed! We where then picked up by Arabian Adventures at 4/30pm, by our driver Lucus. Then we where taken about an hour out of Dubai, passing huge developments everywhere you look, not to forget […] - [13 August 2014 Day One Dubai](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/14/13-august-2014-day-one-dubai/): So it’s in the 40s outside, we grab a taxi and start our day at the Atlantis Waterpark, which turned out to be a good thing after a long flight arriving in this heat! As in we grabbed a floaty thing and headed on the circuit, before getting into the bigger slides.   Not  long till Mr 54 year old joined the line up for The Drop, the dutiful wifee was told to get in position for the photo shoot, so I stand in the full sun waiting waiting for the moment, take photos of random others, heat stroke setting in, […] - [12 August 2014](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/14/12-august-2014/): We left Melbourne freezing cold miserable day, flying Emirates flight no. EK407 to Dubai at 9-30pm. It was a really good flight, as in good to fly at night and have a sleep then wake to nearly landing. The Emirates airline staff where all really lovely, happy which is pretty rare these days! Oh real cutlery too! Future emirates tips, we got seated in the very back row,ended up being a good thing. No. 1 Babies and kids all at the front of the plane, back wall behind us so the back rest doesn’t annoy any one. Also the room behind […] - [10 Days to go!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/08/02/10-days-to-go/): 10 days til we leave and I’m trying to work out this blog thing. After  months of reading various blogs, tripadvisor, Fodors forums, books ect ect, our holiday starts on the 12th of August. We are flying from Melbourne to Dubai, flying Emirates on a A380. We are arriving in Dubai at 5-30am, and staying at the Novotel Diera for 2 nights, before flying on to Paris.   - [The Itinerary and Map of the cruise](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/06/14/the-map-of-the-cruise/): This is the Itinerary of our Cruise on the Celebrity Silhouette boarding at Venice on the 31st of August 2014. - [Our dogs!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/06/14/our-dogs/) - [EUROPE 2014 PLAN](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/06/14/europe-2014-plan/): Dubai 2 nights staying at The Novotel Diera City Centre Paris  4 nights staying at The Hotel Eiffel Siene Nice. 3 nights staying at a b & b behind the Hotel Negressco Monterosso 4 night s staying at a b & b Lezzano 4 nights at Nest on the lake at Lezzano b&b Venice 1 night before the cruise b&b Cruise   12 nights  Santorini 5 nights staying at Hara’s Villas Mykonos 2 nights staying at Anroikos Athens fly home Dubai stop over for 1 night. Home! - [Unlocking The Secrets of Dhipirri Sport Fishing Lodge, Arnhemland](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2023/06/08/dhipirri-barra-sportfishing-lodge-arnhemland/): Our experience on a 3 day/4 night Fishing Safari, June 2023 In the remote reaches of Arnhem Land, lies Dhipirri a haven for avid anglers seeking an unforgettable fishing adventure. Accessible only by a two-hour private plane ride from Darwin, this secluded paradise boasts exceptional fishing opportunities amidst breathtaking natural beauty. During our three-day fishing expedition, our group of spirited individuals experienced moments of triumph, camaraderie, and unexpected surprises. From Jim’s remarkable Cobia catch to Trevor’s quiet achievements as the “Cod Man,”our journey in Dhipirri became an extraordinary tale of fish, friendship, and adventure. Day One – A Cobia Catch and […] - [Our Road Trip from Melbourne to Darwin 2023](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2023/05/18/bound-for-darwin-2023/): Our new Crusader Excalibur Serenity Caravan set up - [A couple of days in The King Valley 2023](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2023/02/22/a-couple-of-days-in-the-king-valley/): Peter surprised me for Christmas with a night booked at 3BlackSHEDS in Whitfield, Victoria. But after a big night the night before with friends, it was a very slow start to this mornings drive via Yea, to Whitfield. Craving a stop in Yarck at Bucks Country Bakehouse for one of their delicious chicken pies, only to find when we got to Yarck the bakery is closed on Wednesdays! Oh well, lucky for us Dindi Naturals Cafe, over the road was open for a quick bite to eat and back on the road, passing a very full Lake Eildon at Boonie Doon. […] - ["Bali Bliss: Unveiling the Ultimate Travel Guide for your Dream Trip"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2022/09/11/bali-with-kirstie-2022/): This trip was with my daughter, in search of purchasing a Villa in Bali, with a lot to learn along the way! 9th of September 2022 After a Jetstar flight cancellation the day before, luckily I got another the next day which left Melbourne at 8.00am. So the night before Peter and I stayed at a hotel near the airport, so I could be there three hours before the flight left. The check in line up was at least an hour wait, so lucky to get to the airport early with the wait times. The flight was quite comical, I had […] - ["Island Escapades: The ultimate Girl's Getaway Guide to Magnetic Island"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2022/03/24/girls-trip-to-magnetic-island-march-2022/): March 2022 23rd of March 2022 It didn’t take much persuasion when Cheryl mentioned a girls trip to Donna’s holiday unit at Magnetic Island, I was on board straight away! So lovely Chez picked Jo and I up at 12:30pm on Wednesday the 23rd of March. First stop a rendezvous at The Gladstone Park hotel, for lunch with the three other girls, Becky, Donna and Maree. First cocktail for the trip Cosmopolitans for all, and lunch. Onwards to the airport as Cheryl had prepaid car parking, what could possibly go wrong with three girls in the car chatting away? Yep the […] - ["Home for the holidays: Reliving the Magic of Tweed Heads Christmas 2021!"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2022/01/04/part-13-tweed-heads-christmas-2021-to-home/): Part 13 19th of December 2021 We arrived at the Tweed Holiday Park, in Tweed Heads around midday, to score a lovely site at the end of a row beside the river. So we quickly got perfectly set up and ready for a great time here! 20th of December 2021 Up early for the Covid testing crazy line up. To get into Queensland for a border pass we had to get a test, and wait two days for the results. I’ve put this on here as hopefully this will all be a distant memory. They put these Covid testing places in […] - [Top Things to see and do on Kangaroo Island](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/12/22/6816/): Kangaroo Island is a ferry ride away from the mainland, SeaLink operates the ferry service between mainland South Australia and Kangaroo Island. Each crossing takes approximately 45 minutes and departs from Cape Jervis which is a 1.5 hour drive south of Adelaide, through the picturesque Fleurieu Peninsula. The top things to do on our list are in order, The Remarkable Rocks in the Flinders Chase National Park, is a definite No 1 attraction for Nature lovers! The Remarkable Rocks Who doesn’t love an old Light house? The historic pretty Cape du Couedic Lighthouse is one not to miss on Kangaroo Island, picture perfect with […] - ["From Coast to Coast: Exploring Adelaide to Tweed Heads"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/12/01/part-12-adelaide-to-tweed-heads/): Part 12 We are staying at The West Beach Caravan Park, as it’s in a perfect position to the airport, between Henley beach and Glenelg. Also not far from my Aunt & Uncles in Fulham. Our set up here was perfect at the end of the street, so not really near anyone! Or Toilets! 1st of December 2021 This morning we went off for a bike ride in the Glenelg direction. It was such a nice, sunshiny day today. Kirsties mini me, so she had a plan to ride to Seacliff, as we had never been that far. Summer definitely was […] - ["Discovering Down Under: Walpole to Adelaide"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/11/07/part-11-walpole-to-adelaide/): Part 11 1st of November 2021 Recovery Day! Taking it slowly today as again the weather is not that great. Peter went off for a bike ride, while I again got caught up with the washing. As we always get a little cabin fever, we took off for a drive around town. And checking out the old jetty’s around the town. Peter went and checked out the Old Sawpit and was impressed. 2nd of November 2021 This morning we arranged to meet Belinda, a lady we met on the whale shark tour out of Exmouth, at The Valley of the Giants […] - [Western Adventure: Exploring Geraldton to Boyup Brook with the Spotlight on The Harvey Dickson Rodeo!"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/10/18/part-10-geraldton-to-boyup-brook-the-harvey-dickson-rodeo-2021/): Part 10 27th of September 2021 Today was a public holiday over here, so we got our bikes out and had a really fun ride around Geraldton. Our first stop of the day, right near our caravan park, was Point Moore Lighthouse. This spectacular Red and White stripped lighthouse was first lit in 1878 and is 34 Metres high! Our next stop on our own bike tour was St Francis Xavier Cathedral, designed by Monsignor John Hawes. It took 25 years to build, one very talented priest come architect! He also designed many other beautiful churches. Next stop on top of […] - ["Coastal Adventure: Our Ultimate Guide from Quobba Station to Geraldton"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/09/19/part-9-quobba-station-to/): Part 9 12th of September 2021 We left Carnarvon early for the drive to Quobba Station. Our first stop for the day way, the obligatory photo at the famous King Waves Kill sign. Then over to the Point Quobba blowholes, for a bit of action before onwards to Quobba station to get set up. Today we got lucky, as we scored a beautiful Caravan sight on the cliff looking right out to sea. As we just set up and made a cup of tea, Peter looked up to see the best whale action, not that far out! It was amazing, as […] - [Coral Bay to Carnavon: Exploring the Stunning Beaches of the Western Australian Coastline"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/08/17/part-8-coral-bay-to-warroora-station-and-back-to-coral-bay/): Coral Bay to Warroora Station and back to Coral Bay, Yardie Creek then Carnarvon. Part 8 After Bullara Station stay, we stayed one night in Coral Bay at the Bayview caravan park. Coral Bay is a very small beach town, splitting at the seams with the Caravan community battling for a site. As I think that may off been part of the road rage incident. As caravans line up daily in the hope of a site, becoming available. So we where lucky to get a site, as I booked a week ago. So off we went straight down to Bills, beautiful […] - ["Australia's Beautiful West Coast: Cable Beach to Coral Bay"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/07/23/part-7-cable-beach-to-coral-bay/): Part 7 17th of July 2021 Sadly time to leave the warmth up here, in Cable Beach 🏖. Our first stop of the day was Sandfire Roadhouse, for a break. Good grief, the line up for fuel here today was out of control, every Grey nomad on the road today had stopped! This actually made the ABC news today on how busy the line up for fuel here was! We arrived early in the afternoon at Eighty Mile Beach Caravan Park, and lucky to get a site here! This is a quirky little caravan park, is a fisherman’s paradise! On the […] - ["The Adventure from Fitzroy Crossing Bound for the Magic of Broome"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/07/05/part-6-fitzroy-crossing-to-broome-western-australia/): Part 6 1st of July 2021 Up early this morning for the 8am Geiki Gorge river cruise, ran by the National parks. This was a complete surprise, as I was not looking forward to Fitzroy Crossing, this was well worth not driving past. We had a spectacular morning on the cruise, no wind. Gorge was absolutely picturesque and lots of bird life and crocodile’s sunbaking. Five star ⭐️ cruise, thanks to Anne Holst for the must do tip! Our next stop for lunch was the Wallare Bridge Roadhouse for lunch, and to organise our next move. We organised to store our […] - ["Bound for Beautiful Western Australia"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/06/18/part-5-western-australia/): Part 5 18th of June 2021 To Lake Argyle We left East Baines free camp around 7am Northern Territory time to get into the line up at the caravan park at Lake Argyle early. After a very nervous couple of days (due to being a Victorian and the covid situation) filling out the G2 form to get into Western Australia, within minutes we where checked into WA! Yay 😀 Onwards to the Lake Argyle lucky site draw! We arrived in WA time at 7:30am, got our name on the list for a site at the caravan park. We where told they […] - [Exploring the highlights: of Darwin and Litchfield National Park, NT](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/06/18/part-4-northern-territory-darwin-chapter/): Part 4 6th June 2021 This morning started slowly, bit of housework to be done before we went off exploring Darwin. Our first stop in Darwin was the waterfront, and wow 😳 it’s impressive! We parked the car at the end of Darwin’s version of Geoff’s Shed,the Exhibition centre and walked over to the beach area along the water. It’s kind of like Docklands, with restaurants under apartments, overlooking a beachfront lagoon. There’s a kids jumping park, and grassed area with really cool 😎 banana lounges, beanbags and chairs for everyone to use. It really is super clean and a really […] - ["Untamed Beauty: Exploring the Amazing Kakadu and Berry Springs"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/06/05/new-title-part-3-northern-territory/): Part 3 1st of June 2021 New title as we really do not fit into the Grey Nomad Club! This morning up early to enjoy the Bitter Springs to ourselves, was it worth it? So so nice, pure meditational, as we floated down stream to nothing but the birds chatting away, highlight so far! Back to the van for a cooked breakfast, sort the washing out, domestic day. Chilling and back for another float in the afternoon. We’ve become surrogate grandparents to Toby and Louis, whom we met with their parents along the way in Kings Creek Station, Georgie and Darren […] - [" Surprise Beauty of: Alice Springs to Bitter Springs"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/05/31/grey-nomad-trip-part-2/): Part 2 26th of May 2012 Evening Suzies daughter, Emillie living in Alice Springs called over with Shane her partner, to take us out for dinner in town. On our way to the charming very authentic Italian restaurant in town Casa Nostra, they showed us the sites of Alice Springs, the places not to go or park ect! Very interesting evening for sure, many many stories later, not sure this is a town I’m to keen to explore! Shane showed us his amazing photos he takes, super talented, the photos of the Alice springs airport in covid times are ridiculous, many […] - ["The Dream Aussie Odyssey Begins"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/05/26/grey-nomad-trip-2021-part-1/): Part 1 After the disappointment last year having to cancel all travel plans due to Covid, we are finally on our way to the Northern Territory! 12 May 2021 Two years in the planning we finally left a day late after 12pm, with an easy drive through the city. Our first stop was the pretty town of Beaufort for a quick coffee and walk up the street. Back on the road perfect driving conditions, no wind and sunshine. As Peter put a couple of pies in his Travel Buddy cooker we had the next quick stop in Nhil, for tea. Many […] - ["The Perfect Weekend Spent at Wilsons Promontory National Park"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2021/01/11/the-prom-weekend/): January 2021 Wilsons Promontory 9th of January 2021 As Peter had been Waiting for two days for his Covid test results, going crazy stuck at home as emergency work was coming in he could not do. He received a text from peninsula health to say the result was negative, at 6:45am Saturday morning. So I woke at 7am to Peter planning our random drive down Gippsland way, in the new car! A quick shower and threw a few things in a bag just in case we stayed a night somewhere and off we went. Our first stop in one of our […] - [From Victoria's Vineyards to New South Wales' Coastal Charms from Fingal Head NSW 2020](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2020/07/04/the-60th-celebration-holiday-nsw-2020/): Kingvalley Winery Weekend - ["Sun-Kissed Christmas: Celebrating the Holidays on the Gold Coast"](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2019/12/27/christmas-2019/): 21 December 2019 After a huge couple of months renovating, gardening and working on our home we flew to the Gold Coast with Sam. Arriving around five Ana picked us up from the airport to our apartment Le Beach Apartments at Burleigh heads, to a nice surprise waiting Kirstie and Ollie after a year not seeing her! A quick catch up and off to Miami Marketta for dinner. Surprise Surprise the show The Briefs (drag) do Christmas is not sold out! Yay for me not the others as I haven’t laughed so much in ages! The others didn’t really see the […] - [There Racing at Manangatang 2019](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2019/12/02/manangatang-races/): 11th October 2019 We left home at 5:30am to get through the city easily again! First stop one of my favourite country towns Kyneton, not much open luckily for Peter. Coffee and pastry from the Griss Bakery. A quick window shop as it was freezing, before heading off back on the road. As my fomo kicks in and I’ve watched the backroads episode on Victoria’s best vanilla slice, we pop into this year’s winner The Bridgewater Bakery for a couple of the winning slices. Back on the road and a surprise silo in Nullawil was the first of many for the […] - [Millie Our Beautiful Golden Retriever](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2019/07/12/millie/): Today I read my introduction on my blog, as I mentioned my love for my dog Millie,I thought I would write about my best friend Millie came into our family’s life’s ten years ago, a puppy from our friends the Sutton’s dog “Summers”pup. Millie was chosen and named by Kirstie and named as it was supposed to be her dog, she soon became the family’s dog. Our friends, the Holst family also got one of the puppies Hamish who was Millie’s brother- friend and spent many walks together. Millie was a crazy puppy, she chewed everything in sight, if she was […] - [King Valley Queens birthday weekend June 2019](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2019/06/11/king-valley-queens-birthday-weekend-2019/): Left home Friday the 7th of June at 5:15am, picked up the van and had an easy drive through the city just missing full peak hour traffic. Arrived at Milawa around 10am, coffee at the bakery cafe. A quick look around at the shops, then a stop at Milawa cheese factory- milawacheese.com.au for a tasting. After a look around Milwala we headed to Whitfield to set up the caravan at the Valley view caravan park for the weekend. We made the very most of the day, first off drove up to Power’s lookout as the sky was perfectly blue! Followed by […] - [Cobram Weekend March 2019](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2019/06/11/cobram-weekend-march-2019/): The weekend wad free,  so off we headed to Cobram for the weekend, to stay at the RACV resort with our van. As we left early our first stop off the highway was Broadford for a coffee and sandwiches at a cafe. Back on the road via Benalla and a random sign to Silo art we followed. We stopped by the Goorambat pub for a quick drink and chatted with the publicans son for more information around the area. He turned out to be such a nice young guy, so on his recommendation we went to church! Following the Silo trail […] - [Tasmania Bay of Fires walk 2019](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2019/04/02/tasmania-bay-of-fires-walk/): Thursday the 17th of January 2019 Myself, Jo Byrnes, Denise Mc Masters and Ange Wilson Left Mt Martha at 8am for another bucket list item to be ticked off! Ian our driver picked us up and our first stop for coffee Before the drive to the airport for our 11:15am Jetstar flight to Launceston. Security then our first sip for the day! Bottle no 1 Chandon pink Bubbles $78 bucks airport prices! Arrived in Launceston around 12:30 and found a shuttle bus to drop us off at the Penny Royal inn our hotel for the night. As the room wasn’t quite […] - [24th of September The way home via Jugiong](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/26/monday-the-24th-of-september/): Monday the 24th of September 2018 We left Morisset Showgrounds at 6am on the dot, ready to tackle the Sydney traffic yay 😁 which went pretty well. Our breakfast stop a little favorite of mine, as Kirstie and I stopped here in May, Bowral. Out of the car and Omg it’s cold around here, and we look completely ridiculous in our shorts and thongs while everyone else is rigged up! A tulip 🌷 festival in town and the church beside was holding a craft show, which we where dragged off the street by an old bloke, very keen to show us […] - [23rd September 2018 Scotts Head to South West Rocks](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/26/sunday-23rd-of-september/): Sunday the 23rd of September Woke this morning in Scott’s Head early, to nice a morning not to go for a walk before leaving. Love this mosaic picnic table, thinking of Sally Walked up to the lookout for our last whale watch for this trip, then picked up a take away coffee from our new little favourite cafe. Scott’s Head set up just before we packed up by 9am. Left Scott’s Head and stopped into South West Rocks for a quick look for another time. Very pretty town, Mum called and told us to check out Trial Bay Goal, so off […] - [22nd of September 2018 Scotts Head and Valla Beach](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/23/saturday-22nd-of-september/): Saturday the 22nd of September 2018 Peter had a morning swim at Scott’s Head before cooking breakfast at the camp kitchen. Not long after breakfast Pete Lawson picked us up for firstly a drive along the beach, as it was such a beautiful morning very 🍀 lucky. Next a trip out to see Pete’s farm at Valla, and to fix the new Hotwater unit for his first camping guests. As Pete L had what must of been a very big hangover, all he went out to go was put batteries in the new unit. He took size D batteries out, felt […] - [21st of September 2018 Coffs Harbour to Scotts Head](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/21/friday-21st-of-september/): We left Byron Bay this morning by 7am, take away coffee’s from Beaches cafe beside the caravan park. Drive by Broken Head First stop Lennox Head, up the top and a bit of a walk to the view spot. Back in the car as we have taken the scenic route, the first of the big random things, a big prawn 🍤 outside Bunnings Ballinga. Next stop Yamba, parked outside the caravan park we stayed at 23years ago! Breakfast at Beachwood a cute little Turkish cafe Then the ol Big Banana! Back on the road after a little look around the shops […] - [20th of September 2018 Byron Bay](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/20/thursday-the-20th-of-september/): Up early, breakfast in the Van before packing up early due to rain on the forecast later in the day. Take away coffee from the cafe Beaches next door to the Caravan Park. This little 🦎 Lizard checking out the surf Walked along the beach into Byron for a look around the shops while Peter waited on the beach until the pub on the corner was to much of a temptation. 🍺 Peter had a quick drink here while I shopped next door Peter getting a few tips for another time! Girls Byron club house Love ❤️ this front yard dreamy! […] - [19th of September 2018 Byron Hinterland](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/20/wednesday-19th-of-september/): As it was pretty windy today we had breakfast in the van and had a coffee at Beach Cafe beside the park, then headed out for a drive. Arrived in Bangalow just after 9am, had a look around the town shops and lovely old buildings. Didn’t spend any money here as it’s pretty over the top around here, much to Peters delight😜 Next stop Newbry by 12pm for our lunch booking at Harvest, recommended by Lisa and Roger. Beautiful lunch the restaurant is very lay back cool, food absolutely top class, best of all the Devine spritz of ever had, made […] - [18th of September 2018 Byron Bay- Reflections Caravan Park](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/18/tuesday-18th-of-september/): Onwards and Upwards Todays a Better Day, the sun is shining and look where we are! Much improved mood today, got up and went for the most beautiful walk as the Whales and dolphins where in full force today. We left around 8am and didn’t get back to the van until around 1pm. The walk along the beach and track to the lighthouse passing Wategos Beach was just glorious this morning. Up at the lighthouse we watched so many groups of whales and dolphins, defiantly in need of some binoculars next time. Met a super nice local lady that lives on […] - [17th of September 2018 Byron Bay](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/18/monday-17th-of-september/): Not all Days go to plan! Gold Coast to Byron Bay, left Nobby Beach Caravan Park right on 10am for Reflections Caravan Park in Byron Bay. Due to the fing Sat Nav Biatch who sent us up SHit creek, Actually she Friken sent us up to the Byron Bay lighthouse, slightly tricky with a 21 foot Caravan also highly embarrassing as we missed the Caravan Park turnoff. Then to top it off when we got to the Caravan Park, bad news the lovely view site I had booked months before, ah sorry putting units on it do suffer another more tricky […] - [14th of September 2018 Childers, Mooloolaba](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/14/friday-the-14th-of-september/): Packed up the night before and left Agnes Water at 6:30am, for our first stop at Childers again as it such a lovely old town. Breakfast at the same cafe beside the post office and then a quick look around the town. Peter did the museum tour of the back packers that burnt down several years ago, while I did a bit of shopping and called into the old pharmacy museum. Arrived at Mooloolaba around 2pm at the caravan park on the beach near the life saving club. Set up and went down the beach and look at a few shops […] - [12th of September 2018 Agnes Water](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/13/wednesday-the-12th-of-september/): Cooked breakfast in the van this morning, as Peters phone was going off with work calls I went off for a walk down the beach. Ended up walking though another estate off the beach then up the street. Browsed the shops and back to the caravan park. Coffee ☕️ with Lisa Rog and Peter at the park cafe. Had a few laughs with the girls from the coffee shop, Milly and Heidi over Instagram learning. Peter and I went back to 1770 to do the Round Hill Head Walk. We left the car near the caravan park and headed up the […] - [10th of September 2018 Agnes Water Sunset at 1770](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/10/agnes-water-10th-of-september/): Peter had a morning swim before breakfast, at the caravan park cafe, which is so nice to sit and watch the surf.The Cabins at the Caravan Park, Phyllis wants to build up here. Walked up the beach with hardly anyone on it, Peter had a dip on the way back. We found Shutters,a beautiful property on the market. More dreaming! As my thong died yesterday, we walked up the street to replace them and pick up a few groceries,for our picnic tonight. An hour or so on the beach with Lisa, Roger and Chock. Then packed our picnic and headed to […] - [8th of September 2018 Agnes Water & Bustard Bay 4x4 Track,1770](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/08/agnes-water-saturday-the-8th-of-september/): Slow morning as we cooked breakfast on the Weber, before heading out on our morning walk today. We walked through the Caravan park to the discovery trail along the coast. The first beach we walked down to was Workman’s Beach Tried to walk to the next beach via the rocks, a little to risky and bumped into a not so friendly snake which totally put me off going any further. Back on the track up the hill to Chinamans Beach headland – viewsSo after a fairly decent walk we where hanging for our long awaited coffee ☕️ at the Garden Cafe […] - [4th of September 2018 Tin Can Bay to Agnes Water](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/09/05/4th-september-2018/): We left Tin Can Bay around 9:30am, stopped along the way at Childers a lovely old Queensland farming town on the Bruce Hwy. Totally geared up the the pasting Grey Nomad parade, as a great car park for Caravans. Called into a really cute cafe for a coffee, shopped at the IGA and local butcher then back on the road to Agnes Water. Arrived in Agnes around 3ish, and set up with a few waiting for a stuff up, backing a van is entertainment for the Grey Nomads! Caught up with Lisa and Roger then an old friend Chock popped over […] - [30th August 2018 Up the Newell Hwy to Parkes, Moree, Tin Can Bay](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/08/31/mission-agnes-water/): 30th August 2018 We left home 5:30am to leave before city peak hour. We had a great run through the city, with news of the massive fire in Footscray Made it to our old stomping ground Tocumwal for morning tea at the bakery😞nothing stays the same! It used to be a treat to go there, new owners and now not nearly as good. A quick hello to Peters ol mate Mick at the butcher, he or his great shop has remained the same! So a buy up for the trip ahead and a quick photo of the river we spent many […] - [Victoria to Vancouver -Home](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/25/victoria-to-vancouver-home/): 25th of July 2018 We woke up early to pack our bags ,ready for the long journey home. Of course the Fomo, me a quick last minute walk around the Historic Harbour before our last Canadian breakfast at the hotel. Peter is very very shabbie this morning, laying flat on his back to the very last second before checking out of The Union Club. Checked out at 11:30am had a walk around Victoria before a quick bite to eat at the famous Red Fish Blue 🐟 Fish on the pier. Again massive Que, so Peter went for a walk while I waited […] - [Victoria, The Most Fun Memory of our time in Victoria!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/24/victoria/): 24th of July 2018Breakfast at the Fairmont Empress, and then by chance out the front was a Hop on off Bus tour about to start. So on we went as we’ve found them to be great to see everything in a short amount of time and get your bearings in a city. We did a loop on the bus and then got off at Fisherman’s Warf a walk around, then caught the water taxi to Red Fish Blue Fish. Only the que was a mile long, so went and found the Tapa’s place a young girl told us about in Ucluelet. […] - [Ucluelet to Victoria ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/24/ucluelet-to-victoria/): 23rd of July 2018 This morning we left our Airbnb early passing a baby deer crossing the road.We headed back to Zoe’s for the chia pudding and morning coffee, and a last look at a couple of shops, before heading off from Ucluelet. On the road by 9am to our first stop The Butchart Gardens, where we arrived on a very hot day, and reasonably quiet afternoon. 2:30pm – And it is absolutely incredible, the most spectacular garden’s we have both ever seen. An abandoned limestone quarry was transformed into the dramatic Sunken Garden. The historic gardens where laid out by […] - [Ucluelet and Tofino](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/23/ucluelet-and-tofino/): 22nd of July 2018 Beautiful sun shining day, so off first thing to walk the Wild Pacific Trail in Ucluelet. Definitely not disappointed, as this is a really beautiful trail along the coast and we cracked a perfect morning for it.There are benches in every viewing place possible on this trail, all dedicated to people. They are specifically to sit and spot the whales go by, so peaceful! As it is a summer weekend here in Ucluelet, it’s very busy. All the cafes are full, but we lucked up on finding “Zoe’s” bakery with a funny Moto Suzie could relate to, […] - [Nanaimo to Ucluelet](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/23/nanaimo-to-ucluelet/): 21st of July 2018 We left the Inn on the Lake at Nanaimo after a quick breakfast before 8am, and on the road to Ucluelet for a two and a half hour drive. Many stops along the way, as the scenery was magnificent, trees and lakes to see. First stop Coombes for the “Goats on the Roof” general store, and wow what a store it was, packed full of delicious produce. We stopped here for Morning tea and a wander around the area, as next door had a garage sale, which was interesting. The cheeses above looked so pretty, couldn’t not […] - [Whistler to Naniamo](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/21/whistler-to-naniamo/): 20th July 2018 Too 😞 Sad, time to leave Whistler today! Said our goodbyes to Ana, Ivana and Nes last night, today Sam. As we had a late check out and really don’t want you leave this beautiful Nita Lake Lodge in a hurry, Peter had an early last Stand up paddle board around the lake. Then another pretty breakfast by by the lake at the lodge. And our last Canoe 🛶 around the lake before checking out. On our way out of town we called in to Sam’s job, met his work mates and the owner of the home he […] - [Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/19/whistler-6/): 19th of July 2018 Slow one this morning as it’s going to be a long day. We are going on a special night hike tonight, so we have had a bit of a sleep in today. Peter went and got some breakfast from the cafe at the hotel to have in our room. After we went for a walk along the bike tracks to explore a new lake Alpha and another side to the Alta Lake. Overcast and a little cooler today but still nice, a few pics from along the walk this morning-Above some of the smaller homes around here, […] - [Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/19/whistler-5/): 18th of July 2018 This morning we had a quick bite to eat at the Hotel cafe, before catching the shuttle into Whistler to hire electric bikes (specialised – brand name, I want one!) from bike place OC near the Fairmont. We had a unreal ride in all the amazing bike paths around here, joining one lake to another. The ride we did today would of taken hours on a normal bike, can’t tell you how much fun we had. We stopped for lunch at the Nickalaus North Golf course, hello! Stunning, the course, homes around it and the restaurant overlooking […] - [Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/19/whistler-4/): 17th of July 2018 This morning we had breakfast at the nearby Southside Diner, and it was a True Diner experience too, nice n cheap! Following breakfast we got two complimentary bikes and rode into Whistler main town. It’s actually a lovely ride in as the bike paths around here are fabulous as is the scenery. The lakes are gorgeous as is the homes beside the lakes, lots of people out enjoying all the activities around here and there are a lot! A bit of shopping in town then met Sam at the bakery we went to on the first day. […] - [Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/17/whistler-3/): 16th of July 2018 One of my top days ever! We definitely can see why Sam and Ana love it so much, it has so much to do and a relaxed place to live. We started the morning with a good sleep in and then Sam came to the hotel so Peter and him had a quick stand up paddle board in the lake out the front of the hotel. Followed by breakfast again at the hotel. Called into Sams to get changed for our day. A lovely morning that got even better as the three of us took the gondola […] - [Kelowna to Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/15/kelowna-to-whistler/): 15th of July 2018 Woke with a bad head, and phones and alcohol 🍷 reminder of Dan! The hotel and Kelowna water front is just too good to leave early, so a bit of a lie in and then a kayak 🛶 around the water way. More fantasizing of a life here living in a water front apartment with our Malibu parked out the street. After our kayak we walked the waterfront absolutely in awe of the amount of good ski boats, Peter and Sam are in heaven. Sam and Ana had a jet ski around the lake again loving every […] - [Canmore to Kelowna](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/15/canmore-to-kelowna/): 14th of July 2018 Today was a bit of a sleep in before hitting the road to Kelowna, in the Okangan area, wine country! So after breakfast a late start and as it is Ana’s 25th birthday today, our first stop was Field again. Though Golden, much to Peters disappointment as there was Wake boats everywhere, he tried! Then onto Revelstoke for Ana’s birthday lunch at The Village idiot pub. So much scenery to look at along the way spectacular mountains, waterfalls, glaciers,green green trees, lakes and rivers. You could spend days on this part of the road trip. Back on […] - [Lake Louise](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/14/lake-louise/): 13th of July 2018 Today was AMAZING 😉 we had a very early start, on the road to Lake Louise by 6:30am to beat the CRAZY crowds and boy was it worth it! We have been staying at Canmore which is an hour away from Lake Louise, as this time of the year the accommodation prices are off the charts. We arrived at Lake Louise by 7:30 got a perfect park and off to the Lake for our first beautiful Photos for the day. Soon after we all took off on the walk to Lake Agnes and The Little Beehive,which was […] - [Peyton Lake, Moraine Lake, and Johnston Canyon ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/13/peyton-lake-moraine-lake-and-johnston-canyon/): 12th of July 2018 Wow 😮 wow and wow!! What an amazing day! After a late start to the day due to our huge day yesterday, Nes made a lovely breakfast and quickly got on with the day. First stop for the day was Peyto Lake , we had our challenges getting there as we are finding the road not signed to well. As we made a wrong turn and found ourselves in Field, luckily there was an information centre to get a better map 🗺 Back in the right track and found Peyto Lake- thank god! Off for a hike […] - [Ice fields Parkway Drive](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/12/ice-fields-parkway-drive/): 11th of July 2018 Wow! What a huge day photos do not do justice to the amazing scenery we saw all day, from Clearwater to Jasper. We left the caravan park at Clearwater just before 7am and drove for over an hour to Blue —-. Then stopped at a true dinner for breakfast, complete with a classic waitress. It turned out to be a really traditional good breakfast, with everybody happy and back on the road to Jasper. The lead into the Rocky Mountains was jaw dropping all the way, too many photo opportunities we all enjoyed the drive for a […] - [Whistler to Clearwater](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/11/whistler-to-clearwater/): 10th of July 2018 Big day! – on the road leaving Whistler at 7:30am, first stop for coffee and fuel at Pemberton. A few more hours on the road with absolute gorgeousness scenery overload high up in dehm hills! Lunch stop in Kamloops, before checking out the must see no. 1 on TripAdvisor the historical train station, why, I cannot tell you! Find no. 2 restaurant as no. 1 full for lunch again why ?? But it had the soccer on and that made Nes happy, kind of until France won. Kamloops well is a big town,we all did not find […] - [Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/10/whistler-2/): 9th of July 2018 This morning we all met in the hotel lobby to have breakfast at Crepe Montagne, which was really nice. Back in the car to find the Train Wreck hiking track, which starts at the industrial area. We walked on the train tracks for a while then into a track along a river no one else around. Our first water fall for the day then back into the woods before we reached the train carriages left in the forest from the fifties, now covered in graffiti and used by bike riders as jumps. Beside the train wreck is […] - [Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/09/whistler/): 8th of July 2018 This morning a little sleep in before Ana texted us with this mornings activities. Met everyone around 8:30am out the front of the hotel for coffee followed by breakfast at a crazy bakery? I’ll find out the name- Off after a quick bite to eat to the Lost Lake scenery overdrive, simply stunning hike full of photo moments – loving life all of us, and so great to see where our kids hang out with there friends. Followed up by a walk via a golf course renowned for bear hang out and then a market in the […] - [Sechelt to Whistler](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/09/sechelt-to-whistler/): 7th of July 2018 Woke early today to leave Sechelt for Whistler, and to pick up Ana’s parents Ivana and Nes from Vancouver airport. A few minor issues along the way, first missed the first ferry from Longmore so a bit of a wait. Wifi on checked the arrival times for the flight, next delay another two hours. Plan b, check out Grandville Island market, easier said than done! With a wrong turn , work it out and next to score a Park also easier said than done, but we got it just took a few more moments. Checked out the […] - [Canada Sunshine Coast drive](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/08/canada-sunshine-coast-drive/): 6th of July Friday 2018 Today we decided to drive to the top of the island to Egmont, to walk the trail to the Skookumchuck Rapids. First stop for coffee was at Halfmoon Bay cafe, a cute little stop surrounded by beautiful beaches and cliff top homes. Arrived an hour before the high tide to Egmont. Walked the rainforest track, with background music by the birds, stunning hike for an hour til the rapids. The rapids where not in full force today still a truly lovely forest walk though well worth the drive. After the walk we found the local pub […] - [Sechelt](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/06/sechelt/): 5th of July 2018 Recovery day – woke late to a windy day so decided to have a total chill out day at our accomodation as it’s so peaceful. Spent the day reading trashy magazines and book on not giving a f, on the lounges by the sea. When the wind dies down we took the kayak for a ride around the islands and another sea lion, it really is beautiful here a lot like Eildon. - [Vancouver to Sechelt](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/06/vancouver-to-sechelt/): 4th of July 2018 This morning my usual FOMO kicked in waking at 6am to a blue sky morning ready to get out there! So early check out and on the road by 7:30am to have a quick wonder around Stanley Park for some last minute photos. Then a bit of a challenge to get on to the Lions Gate bridge to the Capilano Suspension bridge before the crowds, which is amazing and well worth getting there early too. Back on the road to Horseshoe bay car ferry line up, really pretty crossing as the weather was perfect, scenery special as […] - [Vancouver](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/04/vancouver/): 3rd of July again! Arrived later than expected in Vancouver, due to the delayed flight at around 11:30am. Flew with Air Canada on a direct 15hour so called new Dream Liner, who’s dream was to make seats smaller and more squashed in was some skinning Pppp rrrr k! Here to say the economy class on all planes are truly stuffed, but all good made it to Vancouver on a beautiful day. Customs baggage collection done then find the Dollar rental cars, then off we go on pure jet lagged in our dodge people mover! Found our beautiful hotel Sylvia beside English […] - [Canada 🇨🇦 July 2018](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/07/02/canada-%f0%9f%87%a8%f0%9f%87%a6-july-2018/): As per usual the way we roll Peter works til the last minute, so left for town a little late little stressed, for the Holiday Inn at the airport to avoid the morning stress!  3/7/2018 – Booked on the courtesy bus at 6:45am to the airport drop off, man is it freezing this morning! Checked in all good only a one hour delay, which I could of had another hour in bed but on a positive note one less hour in the sky! Breakfast at Shannon Bennett’s airport Vue cafe not bad too. Massage chair and entertain myself writting this while […] - [Part 3 Easter Sunday 1st of April](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/03/31/part-3-easter-sunday-1st-of-april/): My favourite day of the year, the end of day light saving as it’s the only day for me it’s easy to jump out of bed early! So off we went nice and early for a walk down the beach on such a beautiful morning! The Tathra surf club was setting up for a church service at the front of the club at 7:30am, it looked lovely. And the Rubicon guys where all behind the surf club packing up from there mission helping around Tathra. Coffee and hot cross buns at the shop opposite the caravan park. Back to the van […] - [Part 2 Easter 2018 at Tathra](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/03/29/part-2-easter-2018-at-tathra/): Thursday evening 29th March – Tathra Hotel Headed up to the pub for pre dinner drinks and to listen to a really great band, and a not so great one too! Tonight at the Hotel was a thank you to all the people that saved the town from the bush fires. We sat with a local lady, her name was Kerry and she was very nice as she has invited us over for a cuppa!☕️ Back to the van and had dinner, Peter out like a light after his big fishing adventure in Bermagui. Good Friday 30th of March This morning […] - [Our First big Grey Nomad Adventure, excuse our 30 year Wedding Anniversary!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2018/03/02/our-first-big-grey-nomad-adventure-for-our-30-year-wedding-anniversary/): The Plan  4 Nights at the RAVC Inverloch- less one night as work got in the way! So we left early Friday morning and arrived at the RACV resort at around 10am ready for a coffee ☕️ and scones. Watched the set up of a long lunch for the Melbourne good food and wine weekend, which would of been lovely as the wind dropped off and turned into a pleasant day. After our coffee we went and set up the caravan and headed off for a walk around Screw creek via the foreshore camping grounds in Inverloch, which we had to […] - [Tuesday 12th September 2017 Rome to Home 😭😭😭😭](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/12/tuesday-12th-september-2017-rome-to-home-%f0%9f%98%ad%f0%9f%98%ad%f0%9f%98%ad%f0%9f%98%ad/): Woken to reality Nick called lots to come home to as it’s that time of the year, the great lead up to the day the world ends, Christmas. So for the next three hours going to get the most out of this wellness retreat as we are going to need it, back to cattle class this afternoon! (Spoke to soon) Stroll around this wonderful property and the most devine breakfast setting and breakfast, rates as our best on the trip. Not only that crazy good pasteries and Doggy bags yay 😊 diet starts on tomorrow as today f– that! I’m out […] - [Monday 11th September 2017 Positano to Rome](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/12/monday-11th-september-2017-positano-to-rome/): 11 September positano to Rome near the airportLast breakfast at montemare said goodbye to our breakfast waitress, packed up and had our last shop.   Carlo from Ap tours picked us up for our train at 3pm. As the traffic is horrendous in Naples we left Positano well before, s we saw others jump out of cars on the freeway, running towards the train station. Naples train station is HORRIBLE, you have to have your wits about yourself at all times, even booked premium seats and still some looser grabbed our bags getting on the train and asked for money, happy […] - [Sunday 10th of September 2017 Amalfi and Ravello day trip](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/11/sunday-10th-of-september-2017-amalfi-and-ravello-day-trip/): Pushed through the morning hang over, breakfast at our beautiful hotel. Decided today was the day to see Amalfi and Ravello, as it was very windy, no beach today. Bought our bus tickets at tabbaco shop, and lined up for the crazy scary bus trip down to Amalfi first. Quick look around this very busy town, cathedral ✅ done, panini, coffee and real gelato.  Back down to water front line up for the bus to Ravello, more stunning vistas out the window of the bus. Ravello is my favorite between the two, more laid back and pretty. Made out way to […] - [Saturday the 9th of September 2017 Positano](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/10/saturday-the-9th-of-september-2017-positano/): Easy morning, as we had breakfast a little later today, again views.  Wandered down the stairs to  the warf to try to get to Da Afaldo beach club, not an easy feat! The hotel wouldn’t ring to make a reservation for us as quote “they never answer the phone”. So my Fomo massively kicked in, we waited down on the pier for the little boat with the red fish, it came guy yells out you have reservation? Maybe ten people out of about thirty get on and he quickly takes off, we enquire to get a private boat, they say it’s […] - [Thursday the 7th of September 2017 Rome/Naples/Positano](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/10/thursday-the-7th-of-september-2017-romenaplespositano/): Up early for breakfast again on the hotel terrace overlooking the Trevi, this morning we have a wedding photo shoot amongst the selfie brigade.  Quick last photos beside the fountain, check out of Relais De Fontana and taxi to termini station, for our train to Naples on the fast train, flying over 300km per hour.  Picked up by Carlo from Ap tours at Naples train station to our hotel Montemare in Positano. The hotel was a big surprise as most reviews I had read hadn’t really rated it high. The hotel is really Italian style lovely, the view, tiles everywhere but […] - [Friday 8th September 2017 Capri day trip](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/09/friday-8th-september-2017-capri-day-trip/): As the weather forecast for the next couple of days and today was supposed to be the best day, we booked the ferry the night before to Capri. Breakfast before we left in the hotel and wow, views again down on Positano, Italian breakfast, is it ever to early for tiramisu? Walked down to the ferry leaving at 9:15am which arrived by 10am in Capri, ridiculously busy little harbour as the ferries come in and out so quickly and it’s like an airport with different departure numbers. Found the funicular up to the town center. Took a walk to Villa Java […] - [Wednesday 6th of September 2017 Rome ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/06/wednesday-6th-of-september-rome/): Starting our morning on the hotel balcony overlooking the Trevi fountain, watching this mornings selfie shots going on, lots of laughs. Then down to attempt the selfie shots of our own, unfortunately it’s not our thing!  Trevi fountain, the Pantheon Peters favourite building in the world, then the Piazza Navona, coffee and the Piazza Camao De Fiori markets. Pizza at our favourite little spot near the coffee place. Back for a quick nap before our tour of Trastevere, at 4:30pm.  Turned the wrong way outside our hotel, so we hoped in a taxi to meet at the Piazza Farnese for the […] - [Tuesday 5th of September 2017 Last day in Croatia 🇭🇷 Sad Day! Dubrovnik to Rome](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/05/tuesday-5th-of-september-2017-last-day-in-croatia-%f0%9f%87%ad%f0%9f%87%b7-sad-day-dubrovnik-to-rome/): This morning once again spectacular views on the terrace restaurant at the hotel, looking down choosing day bed of the day! Good bye to Jo and Ged. Chill by the sea and pool for the day before we leave Dubrovnik at 5pm today, it’s just sooo hard to take. As our pool boy fluffs around fixing towels and umbrellas, and looks like Tracey K’s Eric’s double! Trying to get a sneaky shot.  Quick check out at twelve and our last walk into the old town for a quick drink at our favourite little bar on the wall, the Buzza bar watching […] - [Monday 4th of September 2017 Dubrovnik Grand Argentina Hotel-Pamper me day! Darrrrling! ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/04/monday-4th-of-september-2017-dubrovnik-grand-argentina-hotel-pamper-me-day-darrrrling/): Today was our mission to totally relax and enjoy the amazing Hotel Argentina, on the water with views to die for over the Dubrovnik old town. Breakfast overlooking the sea then day beds for the day, followed by massages at 4pm for both of us, which where really good! Followed by hair blow dry for me 😜 🥂 We met jo and Ged for happy hour at our favorite balcony bar at the hotel for the sunset. Into the old town for dinner, Di Vino wine bar, jazz wine bar just closed on the last song, not happy! Then walk back […] - [Sunday 3rd of September 2017 Dubrovnik - Father's Day ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/03/sunday-3rd-of-september-2017-dubrovnik-fathers-day/): Today we had to be off the boat by nine am, so a quick breakfast, goodbyes to the crew and taxi up to the view point of Dubrovnik, with our taxi driver. . Checked into the Grand Argentina hotel for two nights, a wander around the gardens and walk into the old town. We met up with Bea and Simon, to book into a game of thrones tour. Coffee, loo stop outside the walls looking over the sea at cafe Dubravka for catch up on this blog, before our tour in an hour. Dubrovnik is crawling with tourists, triple the amount […] - [Saturday 2nd of September 2017 Mljet to Dubrovnik the Saddest day-Last Day](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/02/saturday-2nd-of-september-mljet-to-dubrovnik-the-saddest-day-last-day/): The ship 🚢 left Mljet at 7:30am bound for our last stop of the ridiculously fabulous cruise. 😭😭😭😭😭😭 A half an hour swimspot on our way back to Dubrovnik, Peter last stint at driving the boat. Watched a motorized surfboard belonging to a big private boat.  Our last lunch on the boat and onto Dubrovnik, for a delay into the port. Quick taxi trip into the old town with quite a few of us from the boat, walk around guided tour organized by sail Croatia. Then as usual the boys found the nearest bar, clean loo stop and onto the buzza […] - [Friday 1st of September 2017 Korcula to Mljet](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/09/01/friday-1st-of-september-2017-korcula-to-mljet/): Woke up as I do fearing a missed photo opportunity, jumped out of bed for a quick walk around this stunning town, before the boat takes off at 8am. Raced back to the boat and watched the boat take off from the top deck on yet another lovely day.  Breakfast and the next swim spot around the island of Mljet by 10am. Sunbake up the front and chatted with one of the Russian/American ladies, super investing life stories. Morning tea ☕️ and three course lunch again! So after that we arrived in Mljet, straight to the National park to work off […] - [Thursday 31st of August 2017 Vela Luka to Korcula ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/31/thursday-31st-of-august-2017-vela-luka-to-korcula/): Happy Birthday 🎂🎁🎈 Kirstie xx Woken up leaving Vela Luka heading to korcula, breakfast and then a sail by of the town of beautiful Korcula, to today’s swim spot out the front of a 14th century monastery, hard to take! Along side Jo’s little boat! A chat with B over her funny Italian family stories. Paddle and swim then another three course lunch, not looking forward to the scales after this week.  - [Wednesday 30th of August 2017 Vis to Vela Luka - Korcula island](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/31/wednesday-30th-of-august-vela-luica-korcula-island/): This morning we left Vis around 7am, so of course I jumped out of bed to take some photos leaving as it was such a gorgeous morning! Then onto our swim spot for the day on the western side of the island of Korcula. The boat pulled up in a little cove with a few little holiday homes on the cliffs, and much to one poor ladies personal spot as she quickly put her bather top on! We had a really fun time here getting to know one another over a few bubbles!  - [Tuesday 29th of August 2017 Hvar to Vis](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/30/tuesday-27th-of-august-hvar-to-vis/): This morning the boat left Hvar around 6am for Vis, it sailed for a few hours before stopping near enough to be picked up by a taxi boat into the Blue Cave pick up point. Luckily our boat was one of the first to arrive because you can wait for hours sometimes.  The Blue Cave tour was super organized, as you get given a ticket with a number and wait until the number comes up on a screen, line up then for a little boat to take you out to the most beautiful little cave for the amazing blue blue sea!  […] - [Monday 27th of August Bol to Hvar](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/29/monday-26th-of-august-bol-island-of-brac/): Monday morning the boat left early for Hvar, breakfast along the way before our first swim stop for the holiday. The boat stops everyday for a few hours in a lovely cove along the way.  As the boats are not allowed into Hvar until 9pm, we where picked up just out of the harbour and taken into Hvar party town. Croatia sail week, party kids everywhere!  We walked straight through the piazza, and up to the Spanjola fortress for the beautiful views over the town.  Then we walked back into the town and off to sip a cocktail at a hotel […] - [Sunday 26th August Sail Croatia Split to Bol](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/28/sunday-26th-august-sail-croatia-split-to-bol/): This morning yep Fomo girl up at 6:30 by my self  walk around taking photos of this beautiful old town before the crowds arrived, Peter sound asleep! Me in a total happy place – Happy hour on that hill the night before Cat of the day Pastel wash! Sam / I think you could be related to this bloke! The door way to our Villa Split – the best The view from our room to the breakfast courtyard Wake Peter, to climb up the bell tower before breakfast – I know I’m crazy! But hay it’s worth it! So that’s before […] - [Saturday 25th of August Plitvice to Split - Let the fun begin! 😜](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/27/saturday-25th-of-august-plitvice-to-split-let-the-fun-begin-%f0%9f%98%9c/): This morning up and breakfast to be on the road before 8am to Split to meet Jo and Ged. Pretty hairy drive for me being the passenger as Peter was flying on the amazing freeways at 170km per hr, had a few moments! First hour no Petrol stations and an indicator on the car for more coolant, finally got that sorted and Peter let loose. By the time we arrived in Split I was more than ready for a double shot of anything I could find. Steve from the Villa Split met us at the feet car hire, at the Radisson […] - [Friday 24th of August Plitvicka Jezera (lakes)](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/25/friday-24th-of-august-plitvicka-jezera-lakes/): This morning up crazy early to wash our clothes and get going by 7am, quick breakfast and onto the lakes by 8am, again to avoid the bus loads. We parked miles away as recommended by the girl from our accomodation, maybe could of killed her by the end of the day!  As we arrived nice and early to Entrance No2 and did the walking track E, and it was unbelievable! Camera’s in Overdrive, crazy  The little ferry boats early in the day before the hoards arrived, these ferry everyone between walking tracks Waterfall no – lost count The oar is half […] - [Thursday 24th August Opatija, Krk and Plitvika jezera.](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/24/thursday-24th-august-opatija-krk-and-plitvika-jezera/): We started our morning early today going for a walk along the waters edge, before breakfast. And more pinch me moments Opatija is gorgeous, beautiful views everywhere!  Yep up this early to go for the most lovely walk along the boardwalk The yacht club bistro we had a seafood platter at the night before Think I know a few VIP girls, might like to lounge around on the Moët lounges by the sea! This blokes loves a scratch! Our friend! One of the many typical hotels around here. Yes this would be very hard to take around here Had our breakfast […] - [Wednesday the 23rd of August ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/24/wednesday-the-23rd-of-august/): This morning up early and via tripadvisor a little bakery cafe for breakfast in Zagreb near our hotel. Then we walked down to the Shereton hotel to our rental car agent fleet, and collected the car early and decided to leave Zagreb one day early. Raced back to the hotel packed our bags and off we went toward the sea, not before the usual road block to anony us and the sat Nav biatch, seems to be a thing with us. As every time  we hire a car it seems we get some kind of glitch in the first few minutes […] - [22nd of August Zagreb](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/22/22nd-of-august-zagreb/): Our day started off with the full buffet breakfast at the hotel swishy Zinfeldels  restaurant,champagne to start the day, which was very nice. After breakfast we headed off for the day exploring the city on foot today, a few photos of our day- Dolac market So it’s 7:15pm Peters crashed out on the bed after our walk around town, which we caught the tram back to our hotel. No tea yet and don’t know if we will be as he is looking pretty tired out. Zagreb has a nice small city vibe to it, lovely gardens, architecture and friendly people. It […] - [The day has finally come, Sunday 20th of August 2017!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/08/19/the-day-has-finally-come-sunday-20th-of-august-2017/): Yay!  After a few weeks packing up de clattering ready to paint upstairs, finally get out of town! Maybe a tad too early as we arrived at the airport two hours before actual check in. So a glass of bubbly at Murphy’s at the airport and a couple of beers for Peter to pass the hours away before our 9:25pm flight. Behaved myself in duty free, luckily Melbourne International airport is under a refurb, so unlucky!  Thanks Nick and Jess for taking up your Sunday afternoon to drop us off.   The first of our flights Emirates Melbourne to Dubai all […] - [A Winters day in my hometown, Sorrento](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/07/15/just-a-lovely-winters-day/): Saturday the 15th of July 2017 Kirstie was home from Sydney for the weekend and wanted to go down to Sorrento to do the Millionaires Walk. So after a late night spent with Lou and Knuckels, we drove down the peninsula to a beautiful afternoon!  Stop off at Portsea General store for a quick bite to eat, before onto The Quarantine Station for a walk. - [Croatia and Italy Planning 2017](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/07/06/croatia-and-italy-planning-2017/): After Santorini with the Byrnes’s we planned our next adventure would be Croatia, so here we come in September 2017. And then off I go into the other world of researching for hours on end.  Via my bible Tripadvisor, got to love Pinterest, Fodors forums, Booking.com and loads of Blogs, I’ve come up with our plan! The plan is to fly into Zagreb via Dubai on an Emirates flight. Zagreb 3 nights at the Esplanade Zagreb Hotel. Plitvice Lakes 2 nights at the Plitvice Miric Inn. Split 1 night at the Villa Split Luxury Rooms. Sail Croatia for an Elegance tour […] - [Our first weekend in our new Jayco Silverline Outback Caravan](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/07/04/our-first-weekend-in-our-new-caravan/): 30th June 2017 For our first Caravanning adventure we left home around 2pm Friday afternoon for the Inverloch RACV club. The only hitch along the way, was the tyre warning lights on the Ranger played up, so we arrived around 4pm at Inverloch. Not a bad place to start our adventures! After we set up, we popped down the street to pick up a couple of things for dinner. Then had a quiet night in the caravan watching Game of Thrones for the first time, which was pretty huge for me, as  I’m not into such violence.  Nick had a laugh as […] - [Easter at The Northern Beaches Sydney 2017 ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/04/15/easter-2017/): Easter started 13th April Virgin airline flight at 2pm arriving in Sydney at 3:30pm quickly find the train to Wynyard station  to meet Kirstie at the Bavarian Beer Garden after work. Caught the bus to Mona Vale, for a quick look around then off to dinner at the Newport hotel. Good Friday We started  our morning off with a cup of tea out the front of kirstie and Jacks unit, With a beautiful breakfast made by Kirstie!  Then we went for a walk up to the Mona Vale point for views either sides, a perfect temperature! After Jack went for surf then […] - [Sydney to Hobart Starting Line 2016 ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/03/24/sydney-before-i-forget/): Christmas Day 2016 at the Doherty’s in Point Leo, then headed off to Melbourne Airport for Sydney to have dinner with Kirstie, Jack, Caroline, Peter, William and Hugo.   We stayed at Peter and Carolines to be ready for Boxing Day on Sydney Harbour to watch the start of the Sydney to Hobart yacht race. Getting up reasonably early Boxing Day we all took off to drop Peter at Anzac Bridge at the yacht he was sailing on “Alive” , met a few of the crew, checked the yacht out and said our good bye and good luck to Peter. We […] - [Wilsons Promontory for our 29th Wedding Anniversary ](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2017/03/24/weekend-away-for-our-29th-wedding-anniversary/): Last Saturday as the weather was looking amazing, we took off for a night down at Foster to check out some future caravan weekend trips!  Booked into the Prom Country Hotel for a night, which was a good choice nice hotel, clean and friendly people with a beautiful golden retriever named Max. After settling in we took off for a drive in the afternoon down to the Prom, first stop was Squeaky Beach Then after some one envading our personal space we headed off to Whiskey Bay for some beautiful pictures to be taken After a super good day with perfect weather […] - [23rd of September all over!](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/29/23rd-of-september-all-over/): We left Mykonos at 10-30 on Aegan Airlines for Athens for our first flight to Dubai to stopover for the night at the Airport Holiday inn. Next morning we flew home to Melbourne arriving at five thirty in the morning, just missing the 6-15 airport bus home, so big come down to wait for the next one at 8/30am, which dropped us up at the lovely Dan Murphy’s at Franganastan to our lovely driver-  Any one interested in the odd Airport pick-up, his name is Max, he drives extremely cautious nothing like the European Drivers, he comes at a great rate […] - [22nd of September Mykonos](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/22/22nd-of-september-mykonos/): We are staying at Andronikos in Mykonos it is beautiful if I haven’t already said so! So breakfast was included in the accommodation, which was really nice and different with all Greek homemade bits. After breakfast we went down the street and hired a car as Kirstie was disappointed, because she wanted us to hire quad bikes, but because she is under 21 no go, bad luck – yay for me wasn’t looking forward to that one! Anyway the quad bikes are all set on slow and slower. We had a nice drive around Mykonos Island, in our little green fiat […] - [21st of September Leaving Santorini](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/2014/09/21/21st-of-september-leaving-santorini/):   Sitting in a cafe at Athinos where the ferry was supposed to leave at 10/45am, left our Villa at 9/30am got here and was told ferry not coming, other one leaving at 12/30pm same one as Jo and Ged’s who are having a lovely stroll and breakfast over looking the Caldera, while we sit here in a very busy ferry stop, buses coming in and out by the minute, yay. Off to Mykonos for o, ur last stop before home, very sad. Just survived the ferry trip, it’s a big come down as you are herded like sheep, screamed at […] ## Pages - [Home](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/): Traveling turns you into a great storyteller Read Blog Destinations About us Nice to meet you! Hello, and welcome to our Blog/Diary. Tracey and Peter here. We both have a passion for Travel, both home in Australia and Overseas. We have recently hit the Grey Nomad Milestone, loving our Van Life, Adventures and Fellow Travellers along the way we meet. We hope you can find some inspiration in our travels! “If we wait until we are ready, we will be waiting for the rest of our life!” – Lemony Snicket Places Our Adventures Below are some of our favourite Countries.  View […] - [Caravan Plans](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/caravan-plans/) - [About Us](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/about/): About Us What’s on my bucket list? Everywhere Contact Us PO BOX MOUNT MARTHA, VIC 3934 AUSTRALIA   - [BLOG](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/blog/): Blog - [Contact](https://lettherealjourneybegin.com/contact/): Contact Us ## Optional - [Agent (MCP protocol)](websites-agents.hostinger.com/lettherealjourneybegin.com/mcp) [comment]: # (Generated by Hostinger Tools Plugin)