TOURIST TUESDAY: SYDNEY HEAD ON PHOTO FESTIVAL 2017

At the end of May we jumped on a plane, and headed down to Sydney for a couple of days. The main reason being Justin was exhibiting in the Head On Photo Festival. (Note One) But, lets face it, it does not take much for me to go on a holiday/mini getaway.

Justin flew down earlier in the week to set up his exhibition, normally flying solo with Jarvis doesn't bother me at all...however, a few days before we were to leave Jarvis was diagnosed as having pneumonia. And I was starting to feel like something the cat spat out, so knew I was heading down the same path.

But, my baby flew like the experienced traveller he is, and travelled like a angel, on the plane and on the two trains to our Airbnb location.

Our first day in Sydney, Justin organised to go to Taronga Zoo. (Note Two) Zoos always give me mixed emotions, I love seeing the animals, but hate seeing them trapped into artificial spaces.

That night, we all caught the train to Justin's exhibition. I was so proud of Justin and his amazing work on display. Plus, it was also good to discover other artists.

The following morning, all we had time for was a scrumptious mid-morning snack, and a play in the park, and then it was time to do the reverse trip home. 

As you can tell by the portrait Justin took of me, at the train station on the way to the airport, the flu had well and truly smacked me around. Also because I was sick, I made Justin feel sorry for me and forced him to do a couples selfie, which he hates with a passion.

Holly Molly, I have never struggled on a flight so much. With high temps and a face that felt so compacted, I am surprised the airport security did not stop me and drug test me.

Lucky for me, Tamika always does the airport runs, and picked us up and transited me home and to the comfort of my bed.

Sydney, it was short and sweet, next time lets make it longer.

Note One: The Head On Photo Awards represent a global selection of the best work from emerging and established photographers across four categories; Portrait, Landscape, Mobile and Student.

Head On Photo Festival, one of the world's most prestigious photo festivals is calling for photographers to submit work to the Head On Photo Awards 2017.

Note Two: Taronga Zoo is the city zoo of Sydney, New South Wales, Australia and is located on the shores of Sydney Harbour in the suburb of Mosman. It was officially opened on 7 October 1916.

TOURIST TUESDAY: FINGAL HEADS, ESCAPE THE MADNESS

I had booked a couple of nights at the caravan park at Fingal Heads, back at Easter. But then it rained.  A LOT. The caravan park got flooded, and cancelled all bookings. Plus, the storms damaged my van. So we delayed, and delayed our weekend away. Then it came to the point I knew our little family needed a break. On a whim I called and asked if one of there Luxury Safari tents were available. Because, we wanted to go mid-week we got lucky.

One night. Two days. It was never going to be enough. But, wow! It was still amazing to get away. Plus the beauty of going mid-week is that we had the beach to ourselves, for most of the time we were there.

Long days on the beach. Fish and chips for dinner. Night walks on the beach. All things needed to nourish the soul.

One day, I will live near the ocean again...

Side Note: Relax in total seclusion at Tweed Coast Holiday Parks Fingal, an idyllic beachfront getaway with the Pacific Ocean and kilometres of white sandy beaches at your doorstep. With mild winters, warm waters and beaches that are patrolled all summer long, every day is a beach day at Fingal. Located just 10 minutes from central Tweed Heads, the quaint township is famous for its brilliant surf breaks and fishing locations, all within proximity to the park. Accommodation ranges from large well-grassed tent and tourist sites to Surfari tents, luxury cabins and villas overlooking the beach.