Went on a great tour where we visited a Gorge and a World Heritage Rainforest in far northern Queensland that is rare in that the rainforest actually meets the reef. This area has the most ancient trees anywhere (saw one that the dinosaurs used to eat) and boasts the highest number of venomous snakes in the world (fortunately we didn't see ANY snakes!) - however, we did see all of the following in the WILD (maybe I'll be the next Steve Irwin): 2 saltwater crocodiles [1 mom swimming in the water towards her nest and the other sunning on a log], 1 cassowary (endangered - looks like a colorful emu), 1 "lace lizard" which is about 21/2 feet long and looks prehistoric, and 1 dragon lizard (Boyd's forest dragon]. We also saw gorgeous tropical plants, a strangling fig tree that kills trees that it surrounds, and lots of beautiful tropical flowers and cool birds. Our group was 8 and they were all from England (not traveling together - just a coincidence) - one couple is traveling around the world because they just retired at age 58 and thought that it would be great fun. Tomorrow is a snorkeling adventure on a sailboat to the Low Isles and hopefully I'll be back in time for the famous Grouper feeding (pronounced differently in England!). Amended the post from yesterday to add the picture of me kissing the toad from the races (they are actually poisionous!) Trip continues to be terrific and thanks to you all for your comments and emails!!
Kathryn, these photos are amazing! What a brilliant adventure. I can't imagine why you would ever leave (but of course we want you back in the states). You are an inspiration. XO
ReplyDeleteNancy
SO glad you didn't run into any poisonous snakes (and even more glad that you didn't post any pictures of them!)
ReplyDeletemiss you! xoxo
A tree that dinosaurs used to eat and lots of venomous snakes?! Not to mention crocodiles, other wildlife, and strangling fig trees. What an adventure! Have you cashed in your return ticket, yet?
ReplyDeleteKathy,
ReplyDeleteJust getting around to reading your blog. Sounds like you are have great fun. Let's see ... touring, 25 year olds, snorkling, beautiful scenery .... you may not return and we would surely miss you, but have fun. Remember, life is a journey. NOT a guided tour. So don't miss the ride and have a great time going around. You don't get a second shot at it.
George