Once again, I am moving on. What a great pity I have to leave this lively and casual city, Cairns. Looking back, the Aboriginal Cultural Park and numerous performances and demonstrations were most interesting, worthwhile, and very complimentary to my travels. Thankfully, much is captured on video and will add much to any presentation I may make in future.
I debated long and hard whether to struggle with my broken handled suitcase, or acquire a replacement. Retail therapy won, and I visited a shop in a mall, attached to Cairns Railway Station, which had been recommended by train crew on the Spirit of Queensland, and a taxi driver, this morning. There were many special offers. The first bag, a posh Samsonite, however, came in at 900 AUD! I chose a Samsonite at almost a quarter the price which was on offer. It’s on four wheels, but has a smaller capacity than the one with the broken handle. I must pay tribute to the nice man at reception who helped me transfer all my belongings, thus saving me further postage to the UK! I have been taking myself on holiday almost all my life, but packing has never been my “strong point!”
Ever since I can remember, I have held a desire to wander, as a stranger to far flung corners of the world, (the western world, mainly!) Right now, the modern parlance “living the dream” seems an appropriate phrase relating to what I am doing right now. I will book a taxi to the Airport and at 15.10hrs, take to the skies for the two and a half hour flight to Darwin. What a pity all I shall achieve there is to see the sky over the place. I believe the clocks go back a further 30 minutes granting me an extra half hour to perhaps look around the town tonight. For, tomorrow, I embark on that bucket list of train trips “The Ghan”. This expedition journey is not only the highlight of this trip, but perhaps of any I have made. Over three nights, the journey itself spans the best part of four days. I have yet to meet anyone who has travelled the full distance.
More later from the Northern Territories.
David.
David's Cruise 