While traveling in Queensland, Australia, we made a stopover in Brisbane. We specifically went to Brisbane to visit the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. It is the world’s first and largest koala sanctuary. It serves as a habitat for at least 130 koalas. At the sanctuary, observing and learning about the koalas was very educational. However, I was mostly eager to cuddle a koala. This rare opportunity to hold and cuddle a koala was very special. Surprisingly, I felt very comfortable holding the koala, even though I could feel its tiny claws. Within the sanctuary, there was also a 5-acre kangaroo reserve, where over 130 kangaroos roamed around freely. It was…

The Syndey Habour Bridge, is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks. It is nicknamed “The Coathanger” due to its arch-based design. It stands 134 metres above the Syndey harbour, and is the world’s largest (but not the longest) steel arch bridge. Tourists and locals have the opportunity to climb to the top of this bridge with an organization named Bridge Climb. We had only one day left in Australia and we were still on the fence of whether we should climb the bridge. It was a rainy day, and this adventure was extremely costly. It was about $220 per person for the climb. After some contemplating, we finally decided perhaps…

I never imagined my very first scuba diving experience would be in Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, the world’s largest coral reef system! I remember, Jason and I explored the beautiful corals and aquatic life with 2 other divers and our dive master. We got a very quick introduction about how to dive. Before entering the waters, I wasn’t feeling absolutely confident about my diving abilities so I felt nervous. But yet, I was also excited because this was going to be a new adventure! The experience of seeing the underwater world for the very first time was absolutely incredible! I remember my senses being so captivated by the numerous colorful…

Situated off the central coast of Queensland, Australia lie the pristine Whitsunday Islands. These 74 islands make a stunning archipelago at the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. However, all year around, within these gorgeous waters lie numerous deadly jellyfish. The two main stingers found within this area are the Box Jellyfish and the Irukandji Jellyfish. The Box Jellyfish produces potent venom and is one of the most deadly creatures in the world. Its sting causes immediate severe pain and sometimes even death. The Irukandji jellyfish, whose body is transparent, has been known to cause serious illnesses to humans. Although an encounter with these jellyfish may be rare, it is…