My last week in Panama City was awesome. I barely did anything (World Cup, playing with my cousins kids, and going to the beach doesn't amount to much), which is fantastic way to recover and get ready for 3 months on the road halfway around the world.
When I booked my flights back, I was more concerned about my final destination than the amount of time it would take to get there. I wasn't quite sure how I would handle 24+ hours of travel but, overall, it was probably the most pleasant travel experience I've ever had. 4 countries and 4 airports, and each had their own adventures! As far as air travel is concerned it was the smoothest I think I've ever had. I had ample amount of time at each airport, and even though I had my bags thoroughly checked by Australian customs they were very pleasant and I was out of there in 15 minutes. Also helped that on my long haul flight from LA to Auckland there was an empty seat right beside me. Ample amounts of rest makes talking with customs agents so much easier!
I've only been overwhelmed a couple of days on this trip and my first afternoon in Cairns was one of them. They were minor things really but I was so unprepared for them it was a huge shock to my system. Being a day ahead is so hard to wrap your head around, writing in my travel diary was an interesting experience that night. Cars on the other side of the road! I just about walked around to the other side of the taxi to get in the front seat. Designated crosswalks was also a big one, I haven't seen those in 2 months, and knowing which way to look before I crossed is also a huge learning curve. I've always had to look left before taking my first step! The last thing that got me was the shopping mall and the amount of people in it! I saw a lot of people in Panama but they were always in open markets or streets. Having that many people in a closed area was the strangest feeling, there really are no words I can use to describe the feeling.
Once I had a super good sleep I was ready to take on Cairns! I spent the morning walking the Pier and Esplanade, both were so beautiful and full of people. The Esplanade reminded me a lot of Meewasin Trail back home, except flatter, less trees and right beside the ocean. It is a place where people go walking, running, biking, or just hang out in the park. I then stumpled upon a ukulele festival. I swear every person and their dog had a ukulele that day, I can honestly say I've never seen that many before in my life. The city was attempting to break the world record for the most ukuleles played at once. I can't say whether or not they did, but I can say I was there!
My last free day before I go diving (so excited!!), I decided to head to the Botanical Gardens and the Tank Museum. Instead of taking public transit I decided I would try and walk from my hostel to the site via the Esplanade. Considering it's about 5 km one way and plus all the walking I did in the gardens, my feet were more than a little tired by the end of my jaunt. That being said the walk was totally worth it! I went a bit camera crazy in the gardens as there were tons of beautiful flowers and I know my mom, being the green thumb that she is, will love to see them when I get home. Once I had my fill of plant life I went to look at the Tanks. When I was reading descriptions of The Tanks, I for some reason thought they were army tanks, which sparked my curiousity in the first place. What I found was so much cooler! They are giant water tanks that have been converted into usable space. 1 tank was converted into a banquet hall, 1 tank is an ampitheatre for shows and the last 1 is an art gallery. The art on display in there was absolutely gorgeous and consisted of Chinese Kites, watercolour paintings, and pottery. Such a unique use of space! Highlight of my day might have been seeing my very first Kookaburra! Didn't hear it sing but still monumental!
The Esplanade
Tanks Gallery
Kookaburra!!
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