Friday, January 13, 2012

Tasmania

Long time getting to this final blog.  Waited because of the holidays and such, but certainly not because Tasmania wasn't interesting and beautiful.  I took slide pictures that I did not print, so the pictures are not as personal.  Even my notes were sketchy so here I go.

The trip was wonderful and we docked at Devenport, Tasmania.  I "hopped" on a shuttle and went to a bus company for a seven day pass (ten days to complete)  I immediately got on a bus to the Cradle Mountains and then on to Launceston for the night.  I stayed at a good B&B and left again for more bus travel around Tasmania.  The rides were so short compared to the trips I made on the mainland.  I was dropped of at great motels/hotels almost all on the water.




One stop was in Bicheno for a penguin tour.  The guide told us they are "Little Penguins or "Fairy Penguins."  You can view them at night at their rookery or colony.  It's a guided tour; flash photography prohibited and you see them returning home from feeding in the ocean.  You see them making their way to their respective burrows.  Interesting experience.



Tasmania is very different.  There are more than 1,000 mountain peaks, four mild seasons and more than 40 percent of the island is protected as national parks and reserves.  Some of the world's rarest animals are found there.  The one I wanted to see was the Tasmanian Devil; I did and here's my photo...





The air in Tasmania is scientifically proven to be just about the world's cleanest.  The soils are rich and fertile and produce, seafood and wines are some of the best.




Tasmania was a great way to complete my greatest trip and adventure.  From there it was just getting back to Sidney to fly back in October 1998.  I have enjoyed reading the emails, going through pictures and enjoying the trip all over again.  Thanks for your time and interest.

Sincerely,
Lydia