Wineglass Bay

Wineglass Bay is one of Tasmania’s most photographed places, and for good reason. The white sand forms a perfect curve, the water is incredibly clear, and the views from the lookout are hard to beat.

The walk up to the lookout is short but steep, so you definitely feel it in your legs, especially on the way back down. However, once you reach the top, it is totally worth the effort. On a clear day you can see the full sweep of the bay and just how untouched it still feels.

If you have the time (and the energy), heading down to the beach itself is even better. It’s quieter, less crowded, and a great spot to sit, swim, or just take it all in before the walk back out.

The name Wineglass Bay is believed to come from the bay’s shape, which looks like the base of a wine glass when viewed from above. Another story links the name to the whaling days of the 1800s, when whale oil and blood from processing whales in the bay supposedly tinted the water red, giving it the appearance of a glass filled with wine. Thankfully those days are long gone, and today the bay is protected as part of Freycinet National Park.

We were very fortunate to have friends take us here and act as our tour guides. Such an unbelievably stunning location and one that was on our bucket list for visiting Tasmania. Also if you have a chance, it’s worth taking a walk up to the lighthouse, where you can see Wineglass Bay from another view point.

FOTD – Penny Mac

Happy Friday everyone. Today’s flower of the day is called the Penny Mac Hydrangea, spotted in the conservatory at City Park, Launceston. I have recently learned that it is named after a real person, Penny McHenry, a well-known hydrangea enthusiast from Atlanta, Georgia. She founded the American Hydrangea Society and was influential in popularising hydrangeas in American gardens. How cool is that?!

John Hart Conservatory

Ticking off an Entire Continent

There’s something deeply satisfying about finally achieving a goal you’ve quietly carried for years. Somewhere between coastal drives, city stays, dusty inland roads and spontaneous getaways, I can now say that I have visited every state and territory in Australia. It was always something I was keen to do, and while I can now proudly say I’ve ticked them all off, I know I’ve only scratched the surface.

Each state and territory holds far more than a single visit could ever reveal, endless landscapes, hidden pockets, local stories and moments still waiting to be discovered. Completing the list feels less like an ending and more like an invitation to keep exploring.

If you’re not familiar with how Australia is set up, the country is made up of six states and two main territories. States operate with their own governments, while territories are governed a little differently under federal oversight.

From a travel point of view though, those technical differences fade away and what stands out is how wildly different each place feels, from climate and scenery to food, lifestyle and pace of life. I don’t think I ever appreciated how big Australia actually is until I started living and travelling here.

Below I have showcased a few favourite photos of mine from each state and territory to give you a glimpse of how they appear in a snapshot. However, you cannot possibly see every point of view from a single photo or even a single trip, as even within a state or territory, there can be vast differences. How you been to any of these states or territories? If so, did you have a favourite?

NEW SOUTH WALES

VICTORIA

QUEENSLAND

SOUTH AUSTRALIA

WESTERN AUSTRALIA

TASMANIA

AUSTRALIAN CAPITAL TERRITORY (ACT)

NORTHERN TERRITORY

Launceston, Tasmania

As many of you may know, I was in Launceston last week for my best friend’s wedding. It was a truly magical couple of days and we had an absolute ball, with the opportunity to also see around Launceston and taste our first bite of Tasmania, a place we had always wanted to visit.

Launceston is one of those cities that surprises you. It blends history, nature, culture and great food into a relaxed and very walkable experience. Whether you are visiting for a weekend or taking your time to explore, I have no doubt you will fall in love with this place. It is the perfect place for walking, exploring, shopping and dining.

I have compiled my top eight things to see and do in this beautiful Tasmanian city, in case you ever decide to visit and wonder what to do.

1. City Park

Right in the heart of the city, City Park is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy the surrounding nature. With its manicured gardens, historic features and open green spaces, it’s ideal for a morning stroll or a quiet coffee break. It feels like a peaceful pocket tucked into the rhythm of city life and is a lovely way to start exploring Launceston. One of the park’s most charming quirks is its Japanese macaques (monkeys) enclosure, which has been a favourite with visitors for decades. A highlight for me was the John Hart Conservatory, a heritage-listed glasshouse with a display of stunning annual flowers.

2. Cataract Gorge

Cataract Gorge is easily one of Launceston’s most breathtaking natural attractions and lucky for us was just a 5 minute walk from our hotel. Walking tracks hug the cliffs, suspension bridges stretch over the water, and the views are stunning at every turn. One of the highlights of Cataract Gorge is the Gorge Scenic Chairlift, which offers a gentle scenic ride high above the gorge. Its central span of around 308 m is thought to be the longest single‑span chairlift in the world, giving you spectacular panoramic views of the gorge, river and surrounding bushland from above. We had to experience this and I have to say, it was very enjoyable and not too scary. During our visit we spotted MANY peacocks roaming the gorge, with their striking feathers adding a splash of colour to the cliffs and walking trails, we even had one put on quite a show, displaying his fancy feathers for us. I think this was the first time I had ever heard the calls that they make, quite loud and high pitched when they communicate to each other.

3. Queen Victoria Museum and Art Gallery (QVMAG)

For art lovers and curious minds, QVMAG offers a fascinating mix of history, science and contemporary exhibitions. Spread across historic buildings, it showcases Tasmania’s stories alongside creative works that make you pause and reflect. It’s the kind of place you can casually wander and still leave feeling inspired, and it’s free! One of the standout exhibits at QVMAG was the Sam Jinks’ Mortal Reflections exhibition, a series of incredibly lifelike sculptures that explore the fragility and beauty of the human form. The attention to detail is astonishing where each piece feels almost alive, inviting quiet reflection and a deeper appreciation of art’s power to evoke emotion. The curator had warned us not to touch the sculptures, even though we would really want to, and she was absolutely right. It was easy to see the temptation, but we managed to restrain ourselves.

4. Prince’s Square and Heritage Streets

Launceston’s heritage architecture gives the city much of its charm. Prince’s Square and the surrounding streets are lined with beautiful old buildings that hint at the city’s colonial past and it’s consequently, a great area for photography, wandering, and soaking up the atmosphere of a city that respects its history. As you can probably imagine, I was in architecture and door heaven!

5. Kings Bridge Bar & Restaurant

If you’re looking for a place to unwind with great food and a drink, Kings Bridge is a standout. Set beside the Tamar River, it offers a relaxed vibe with lovely views and a menu that feels both fresh and satisfying. It’s perfect for a long lunch, sunset drinks, or a laid-back dinner after a day of exploring. I loved the English feel of this cosy pub and we had one of my favourite student dishes here, cheesy chips smothered in gravy!!! The Guinness was pretty decent too.

6. Alchemy Bar & Restaurant

Alchemy is a favourite for cocktails, atmosphere and modern dining. Stylish without feeling pretentious, it is a great spot to enjoy creative drinks and well-crafted dishes. Whether you’re catching up with friends or treating yourself to a relaxed evening out, Alchemy adds a little sparkle to the Launceston experience. I have no photos in here sadly as we were having too much fun with our friends but we frequented here on two occasions and thoroughly enjoyed the food, drinks and service.

7. Tamar Valley Wine Region

Just outside the city lies the Tamar Valley, one of Tasmania’s best-known wine regions. Rolling vineyards, cellar doors and stunning river views make it ideal for a day trip. Even if wine isn’t your main interest, the scenery alone makes the journey worthwhile. We were really fortunate to have tried four different wineries whilst staying in Launceston and each one brought its own unique and fabulous charm, we absolutely loved them all.

8. Harvest Market (Saturday Mornings)

If you are in Launceston on a Saturday, the Harvest Market, apparently, is not to be missed. Local growers, bakers and producers fill the market with fresh produce, artisan treats and friendly energy. It’s a wonderful way to taste Tasmania and connect with the local community, however, sadly we had to leave on the Friday so missed this opportunity but I’m sure it would be great to check out.

There you have it, my top eight picks for Launceston. We thoroughly enjoyed our visit here and would highly recommend to anyone wishing to visit Tasmania to make this one of your top priorities. If you are interested, we stayed in the Art Hotel on York, just a short five minute walk into town and also the Cataract Gorge in the other direction. This hotel was probably one of the cheapest to be honest, great location, extremely friendly staff, quirky decor that we loved and rooms serviced daily which we really appreciated as this isn’t always the case. We would absolutely stay here again and we look forward to returning to Tasmania in the not so distant future.

Doors of WordPress V150

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to my 150th doors post!!! This week I am delighted to feature some doors from my recent trip to Tasmania, with the focus on Launceston and I look forward to creating a blog post of our trip in the coming days. I was absolutely gobsmacked with the beautiful buildings in Launceston and the stunning doors to match. As always, please let me know if you have a favourite this week. Many thanks!

My favourite this week is number 5, who doesn’t love a yellow door? It’s so welcoming and happy looking and I love the view to the outside world.

FOTD – Orange Lily

Orange Lily – Spotted on the street in Launceston, Tasmania. Having the best few days here celebrating a special wedding. Now we head off for a couple of days to visit some friends and see somewhere new. I hope you’re all having a good start to 2026

Doors of WordPress V147

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another wonderful week of doors. The past few days I have been really hopeful to find some festive doors for the lead up to Christmas and my luck came in at the beginning of the week when I took a walk through Surry Hills in the city. Lots of beautiful doors with festive wreaths! As always, please let me know if you have a favourite this week.

I love them all but I will choose number three as my favourite this week. I absolutely love the shade of green and how the wreath matches beautifully. What do you think?

Doors of WordPress V145 / November Shadows # 27

Today’s door is another beauty from Paddington and belongs to a stunning little house, hidden in the shadows. If someone could just give me this house to live in, I would be extremely grateful! Haha wishful thinking but how stunning is this place?!

Featured as part of Becky’s November Shadows challenge

Doors of WordPress V144

It’s Thursday again already and that can only mean one thing…time to showcase some doors! I have a few more doors to display from one of my favourite suburbs for doors, Paddington. I’m sure you are all sick to death of hearing about this place but it has the most fantastic doors in the state, maybe even the country! I know that’s a bold statement but I am yet to meet another place like it. There are a few neighbouring suburbs that can give Paddington a run for its money but I feel that they are also extensions of Paddington, for example, Darlinghurst and Surry Hills, both neighbours to Paddington. As always, let me know if you have a favourite this week.

I absolutely love doors 2 and 3, how cheery and uplifting they both look. I wonder did they choose the colours together as they match perfectly. The design of these town houses is just fantastic and don’t be fooled to think these are small town houses as they are huge inside, extending backwards for quite a distance! I have been lucky to have been in a few of these and they are just as stunning on the inside! Have a great Thursday everybody!!!

Doors of WordPress V143 / November Shadows # 13

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors! This week I am combining two challenges with the one image, inspired by Brian from Bushboys World. I have a beautiful door that belongs to a house in Paddington (one of my favourite suburbs) that hides in the silent shadows. This door is the most amazing colour of green and has matching green wooden window shutters. I love how the trees surrounding the house cast big shadows over it, protecting it from the sun. The white picket fence is the icing on the cake!

Also posted as part of Becky’s November shadows challenge.

Doors of WordPress V142

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am showcasing more doors that I have left over from our trip to Perth. As always, please do let me know if you have a favourite this week.

I’m really torn between doors 2, 4 and 5 but I think I will pick 4 as my favourite simply because of how inviting it looks and I love the curtain on the inside of the door, it feels very Italian 🇮🇹.

Doors of WordPress V140

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another wonderful week of doors. This week I am showcasing some very special doors that are attached to some very special motor vehicles. You may remember I mentioned that we attended an event in Perth known as the Celebration of Motorsport at Langley Park just last month.

It is a free event that brings together car lovers and racing fans for a fun day out. It showcases everything from classic cars and hot rods to modern race vehicles, with live displays and plenty to see and do along the Swan River. It is a great day for families, enthusiasts, and anyone who enjoys the excitement of motorsport or like us if you simply appreciate looking at old cars.

We absolutely loved this event and couldn’t believe our luck to stumble across it. I want to show you all the majority of cars that we managed to see. Let me know of you have a favourite and maybe why because as much as I love the aesthetic of classic cars, I am in no way knowledgeable about them, other than if I like its appearance or not. These cars reminded me of the kind of toy cars I would have played with as a kid.

There are so, so many to choose from and these were just my favourites on the day! I absolutely love numbers 3, 13, 19, 22 and 23. How cool would it be to drive one of these???

Margaret River, WA

Our final destination on our Western Australia adventure, nestled in the southwest corner of WA, you have Margaret River, a small but world-renowned region famous for its premium wines, pristine beaches and laid-back charm. Once a quiet surf town, it has grown into one of Australia’s leading wine regions, producing exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay and Semillon Sauvignon Blanc blends.

The highlight of our trip to Margret River was a wine tour with Wine for Dudes (not that I’m saying I’m a dude!), a relaxed and entertaining day that showcased some of the region’s best vineyards, cellar doors and local producers. Basically you have a driver who takes you around the vineyards, providing information and history of the region. We had wanted to attend a wine tour here and this company ensured we had the best experience possible and it always helps when the other attendees are good fun.

Our first stop was Walsh and Sons, a boutique family-run winery where creativity and character shine through in every bottle. The wines are vibrant and expressive, perfectly reflecting the region’s coastal influence. This wasn’t a favourite of ours but not bad for our first pit stop.

Next, we visited Peacetree, a charming and welcoming spot surrounded by rolling vineyards. The wines here were beautifully balanced and elegant, a real taste of Margaret River craftsmanship.

After that came Gabriel Chocolate, where we discovered that wine and chocolate truly are the perfect match. The rich, handcrafted chocolate is made directly from cacao beans, and it was hard to leave without a little bag (or two) to take home.

Lunch was at Swings and Roundabouts, a rustic winery known for its relaxed atmosphere and incredible woodfired pizzas. We also got to try our hand at wine blending, which was both fun and surprisingly competitive, creating our own blend to have with lunch.

The next stop was Windance Estate, a family-owned, organic vineyard with a strong focus on sustainability. The wines were fresh and full of character, and the hospitality was warm and genuine.

We finished the day at Cheeky Monkey Brewing Co., swapping wine glasses for craft beers with a view over the lake. It was the perfect way to wind down after a full day of tasting and touring.

In town, The River Hotel and Bar was a favourite spot for good food, great drinks and a lively atmosphere. For dinner, The Grande Escape offered an excellent locals’ night menu, relaxed, friendly and full of flavour. The $5 glasses of house wine were the ticket and we were literally a five minute walk to our air b’n’b, winner winner, chicken dinner!

Another highlight of our trip was Cape Mentelle, one of the pioneering wineries of the region. The setting is stunning, surrounded by vineyards and native bushland, and the wines, especially their signature Cabernet Sauvignon and the 2022 Zinfandel were outstanding. It is very easy to see why Margaret River has become such a celebrated destination for wine lovers, we absolutely loved it!

On a side note, Margaret River town was very charming with its stunning cafes, restaurants and boutique stores. We also found a very cheap launderette which was great for washing our clothes (I’m easily pleased) as we were coming to the end of our trip.

That rounds up the end of our WA trip. We drove back to Perth for a final night with our friends and were able to share our experiences from our unforgettable trip. Perth you have a piece of our heart, the most amazing place, we can’t wait to return.

Doors of WordPress V139

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. The sun is shining and I’m working from home today. It’s really lovely but I’m just dying to get out in the sun for a walk. I’m settling instead for a quick coffee break and thought I would post some of my remaining Perth doors. Please let me know if you have a favourite this week. Sometimes it isn’t the door that catches my eye but the entire building! I absolutely love door number one this week but the Salvation Army building is just fantastic.

Busselton, WA

Busselton is one of those coastal towns that instantly makes you slow down and breathe a little deeper. Located in Western Australia’s beautiful South West, it’s known for its laid-back vibe, stunning beaches, and that famous landmark, the Busselton Jetty. Stretching 1.8 kilometres out to sea, it’s the longest timber-piled jetty in the Southern Hemisphere and even has an underwater observatory at the end where you can explore a living aquarium beneath the waves. You don’t have to walk the full length of the jetty as there is a heritage train that runs along it, offering an easy (and fun) way to take in the views. However, we ended up walking it not once but twice, good for stretching the legs!

The Foreshore is a highlight too, with walking paths, shady lawns, and spots to swim or just sit back with an ice cream and watch the world go by. The town itself has a quirky charm, think boutique shops, local art, and plenty of character. When it’s time for a bite, Shelter Brewing Co. serves up good food and views across the bay, while the Fire Station Café is a favourite for coffee and relaxed vibes in a converted old firehouse. I have heard that Goose restaurant is amazing but it was busy being the long weekend so we opted out.

Busselton also makes a perfect base for exploring the wider region. Dunsborough is just up the coast, with calm turquoise bays, walking trails, and great spots for a morning swim or sunset picnic. A little further on, the dramatic Sugarloaf Rock rises out of the ocean, a photographer’s dream and gives Game of Thrones vibes. This was recommended to us to see and I’m glad we took the time to drive out and see it in all its glory.

If you head inland you will find Cowaramup, affectionately known as “Cow Town,” with its playful cow sculptures, local wines, and small-town charm. Interesting fact, this place wasn’t named after cows, it gets its name from the Noongar word “Cowara,” which refers to the purple-crowned lorikeet, a small, colourful native parrot found in the area. The suffix “-mup” in Noongar means place of, so Cowaramup translates to “place of the Cowara”, or “place of the purple-crowned lorikeet.”

Furthermore, if you drive towards the coast again, Prevelly near Margaret River offers surf, sea views, and a relaxed beachside feel that sums up the South West lifestyle perfectly. This place is home to many surfing competitions, famously holding the Western Australia Margaret River Pro, a stop on the World Surf League Championship Tour.

Whether you’re after a beach break, local flavour, or a gateway to Margaret River country, Busselton has a little of everything and plenty of reasons to stay for a while. We stayed here on our way to Margaret River as we had heard great things and boy did it deliver. Next stop, Margaret River! 🍷

Fremantle, WA

Just a short drive from Perth, Fremantle (or “Freo” as the locals call it) is a vibrant port city where old-world charm meets modern creativity. Its streets are lined with heritage buildings, colourful murals, buzzing markets, charming coffee shops and the smell of the ocean. Fremantle has a relaxed, artsy energy that is perfect for wandering, exploring, and soaking up the laid-back coastal vibe. Below are some of the highlights for us and places that we had planned to visit. We absolutely loved this place for its character and charm and spent three days here but could probably have stayed longer. Great spot!

Fremantle Prison

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Fremantle Prison is one of Western Australia’s most fascinating historic landmarks. Once a high-security jail built by convicts in the 1850s, it now offers guided tours that take you deep into its eerie cells and underground tunnels, a haunting glimpse into WA’s colonial past. There are many different tours to take and we took part in the Convict Prison Tour, more so as it spoke about the Irish convicts and how they were used to build the prison.

Fremantle Markets

Since 1897, the Fremantle Markets have been a weekend institution. The heritage hall is filled with local produce, handmade crafts, street food, and live music. It’s a feast for the senses and the perfect spot to experience Freo’s lively community spirit.

Architecture

Fremantle’s streets are a showcase of beautifully preserved 19th-century architecture. From grand Victorian facades to quirky terrace buildings, the mix of colonial and maritime design gives the town its unique, nostalgic charm. I won’t show too much of this as I want to keep a few shots for my future doors posts!

Vintage Shops

Freo is a treasure trove for vintage lovers. Wander down High Street or the Cappuccino Strip and you’ll find retro clothing stores, antique shops, and hidden boutiques full of one-of-a-kind finds.

Art and Murals

The city’s creativity spills onto its walls, literally. Fremantle is covered in colourful street art and murals that celebrate its maritime roots and bohemian soul. Every corner seems to tell a story.

The Green and Red Lighthouses

Standing proudly at the entrance to Fremantle Harbour, the red and green lighthouses are local icons. They mark the port’s north and south moles and make for a stunning photo spot, especially at sunset. We took a walk out to the green lighthouse only as it’s quite a distance but I am a huge lighthouse fan so had to see at least one up close.

Ferry to Rottnest Island

From Fremantle, you can hop on a ferry to Rottnest Island, home of the famous quokka! The trip takes about 25 minutes and offers beautiful ocean views as you head toward one of WA’s most loved holiday spots. I will create a standalone post for this island as it is a real highlight when visiting WA.

Breweries – Running with Thieves & Little Creatures

Fremantle’s craft beer scene is thriving. Running with Thieves offers bold brews and a sleek coastal vibe right by the beach, while Little Creatures Brewery is a Fremantle institution, a relaxed spot for great beer, ocean views, and tasty food. We had tried these beers before so we’re super excited to sample more of their beers at their breweries. We had paddle boards to sample a few, great experience.

FOTD – Barbados lily

Happy Friday to you all. Don’t you just love when you walk along a dusty main road and find a beautiful floor somehow surviving and thriving.

Yesterday I was walking to work when I spotted these absolute beauties, Barbados Lillies (scientific name Hippeastrum puniceum), so vibrant and full of life. Have a good day everyone 🙂


Part of Cee’s flower of the day challenge

Doors of WordPress V138

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. I have collected quite a few doors from travelling around Western Australia and this week I will be showcasing my first few from Perth’s CBD. As always, let me know if you have a favourite.

I think I am drawn to number one this week. It’s a beautiful looking door set within a great brick framework. I feel like it has a very mysterious aura about it and I had absolutely no idea what to expect when I opened the door. It was a bar / restaurant but very different to what you might assume. It was almost like an airport terminal, not much character, almost like it was designed to be something else but they quickly turned it into a bar. Nonetheless, the food and drinks were lovely and it was right beside where we were staying so I was grateful to have somewhere to eat when we first arrived.

Scarborough, WA

After our trip to Perth, we continued on our way to see as much of Western Australia as possible within two weeks. Our next stop was Scarborough as I had heard it was very beautiful to see with big stretches of beach to walk along. This town is only a 20 minute drive from Perth or if you take public transport like we did, about 45 minutes.

Scarborough, on Perth’s sparkling coastline, perfectly blends beach life with urban energy. Its long stretch of white sand is a magnet for swimmers, surfers, and sunset watchers. By day, you can find locals grabbing a coffee after a dip or skating along the promenade. By night, the foreshore comes alive with buzzing bars, rooftop views, and live music. It is one of those places where you can feel the magic of Perth, relaxed, confident, and always close to the ocean.

If you fancy stretching your legs, the coastal walk from Scarborough is one of the best in Western Australia. You can wander north to Trigg Beach for a short, scenic 5 km return stroll, or keep going all the way to Hillarys for a rewarding 10 km journey. Head south instead, and you’ll reach City Beach in about 6 km, with ocean views the entire way. For the truly adventurous, the Perth Coastal Trail continues for around 45 km, a breathtaking route where golden sand, turquoise water, and salty air will be with you every step of the way. We did not opt for the longer walk due to the sheer distance, time it would take and the sun was super hot. We walked as far as Trigg Beach and then headed to the bar for a refreshing gin and tonic!

We loved this town and stayed close by in an air bnb for a couple of nights. However, I would say 2 to 3 days would be more than enough. We caught up with some friends here too so it wasn’t all sightseeing but amazing to see loved ones that we haven’t seen for a very long time. They absolutely love living here and couldn’t recommend it enough.

All in all, Scarborough was definitely worth seeing and I am so happy we had the opportunity to experience it.

FOTD – Calla Lily

Happy Friday everyone. Today’s flower is the Calla Lily. I went for a run this morning near our accommodation in Margaret River and was lucky to spot these flowers growing in the wild, never seen these growing like this before, magical.

FOTD – Coastal Groundsel


Coastal Groundsel, which is native to Western Australia and common on Rottnest Island, where we currently are! Happy Friday to you all 🙂

A little info – The flowers are classic yellow “daisy” type, growing in dense clusters and the species is widespread on dunes and open spaces on Rottnest Island. They are recognised as part of the island’s wildflower displays, very prominent in the spring season.

Doors of WordPress V136

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. I am currently travelling around Western Australia, having just left Scarborough and heading now to Fremantle, all not too far from Perth. I have spotted some cracking doors so far but will keep them for when I’m creating my WA blog posts. This week my doors are from my last Aussie adventures when we travelled to the German village of Hahndorf, near Adelaide. As always please let me know if you have a favourite.

I love the message beside number 3 – “Do more of what you love” – abso-freaking-lutely! However, number 4 is my favourite this week, it has that old school rustic charm and it looks very worn and weather beaten, lots of stories if it could speak.

Doors of WordPress V135

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am showcasing a few doors from the suburb next to us called Caringbah. We went for a walk here on Sunday looking for a popular board walk. The good news is that we went for a walk and got our steps completed, the bad news is that we took a wrong turn and totally missed the boardwalk. Ah well. We will have to try again at a later stage. It wasn’t all bad though as I was able to spot these beautiful houses with fantastic doors and we managed to stumble across a brewery that we had frequented before. It does the best creaming soda ale I have ever tasted. Ok, so it’s the only creaming soda ale I have ever tasted but it is absolutely delicious.

As always, let me know if you have a favourite this week.

We called into the Hairyman Brewery for a couple of Pop Ales! Extremely tasty and thirst quenching, it would have been rude not to take some home.

FOTD – Evergreen azalea

Happy Friday everyone! I survived my stomach churning train journey this morning into the city and then walked to my workplace. It was a lovely morning and I managed to spot these wee beauties close to my work, nestled in the surrounding foliage.

They belong to the genus Rhododendron, and most evergreen types are native to Australia and Asia, especially Japan and China.They supposedly only flower in spring, which can mean only one thing here, spring has indeed sprung!

Doors of WordPress V130

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome back to Thursday Doors! Today the weather is abysmal in Sydney, very cold, wet and gloomy. Therefore I thought I would show a few brightly coloured yellow doors that I was delighted to find a couple of weeks ago in Paddington. I love how you meander around different streets here and colourful doors appear to JUMP out at you. I was even more pleased that my yellow jumper matched the doors, as sad as that sounds but as you all know, I am easily pleased. As always, do you have a favourite this week?

1

2

3

I actually cannot decide this week as I love them all equally but for different reasons. They are all extremely quaint and I cant help but smile when I see a yellow door. Ok actually, number two does stand out for me as the outer security door is also yellow which is pretty cool and I love the yellow shutters on the window of the house. Additionally, the sunflowers are very cheery! (I know they have nothing to do with the door 😜).

FOTD – Chinese hibiscus

Happy Friday y’all. I am delighted to say I have that Friday feeling today as I am off tomorrow. It’s not often I can say that as I usually work Saturdays. Today I am showcasing the Chinese hibiscus as my flower of the day, spotted on our trip to Adelaide in the botanical gardens.

A little bit of info – Native to East Asia but now grown all over the world, this flower is more than a pretty face. In some cultures, it symbolizes delicate beauty, while in others it represents fame, glory, and even hospitality. It’s also the national flower of Malaysia, where it’s called the Bunga Raya.

Doors of WordPress V129

Happy Thursday everyone from a wet and wild Sydney today. I’m staying dry in work but it is miserable out there. There is no Thursday Doors this week but I wanted to showcase this beauty as it’s a red door and fits in with Becky’s simply red challenge for the month of July. This door is from one of my favourite suburbs in Sydney called Darlinghurst, as I am sure you have heard, as I have mentioned it too many times before haha.


Posted as part of Becky’s SimplyRed challenge for the month of July. I love the colour of red with the green surroundings from the brickwork and plants. It’s almost a shame to have the door and windows covered by railings but as mentioned before, it is to enable opening the door and window with the ability to lock the railings. It provides both security and fresh air to flow in.

1000 subscribers!

Today I hit a HUGE milestone (for me) with achieving one thousand subscribers.

That’s a thousand humans (and possibly a few bots) who clicked follow, subscribe or ‘I’m kind of curious with what Wayne is rambling about today’.

From Wayne’s Word to tray bakes, travel highlights to colourful doors, you have stuck around and I am incredibly grateful for that. Whether you have read, may it be one post or a hundred, I want to say, THANK YOU!

This is my 21st day posting in a row and I have to say this has been the key for me, posting often. With creating Wayne’s Word and joining in different blogging prompts, it has kept the fire burning within me to keep blogging. The community here is fantastic for encouraging you and making you feel extremely welcome when the world around us can seem hard and sad at times.

Here is to the next thousand followers, the next word, travel adventure or whatever wonders lie in between.

Symbio Wildlife Park

Nestled in 16 acres of lush gardens on the edge of the Illawarra escarpment, Symbio Wildlife Park in Helensburgh offers a uniquely immersive wildlife experience for families, nature lovers, and curious explorers alike. Just a 30 minute drive from our home in the Shire, this is a fantastic place to take visitors who want to see some of the famous Australian wildlife.

Reasons to visit Symbio:

– Get up close and personal with wildlife. Here you can meet and great with iconic Australian animals like kangaroos, wallabies, wombats and koalas.

– Interactive Experiences . You can hand-feed kangaroos, wallabies, alpacas and goats, engage in lively keeper talks, and dive into immersive behind-the-scenes encounters. This is such a novelty that not many other zoos can offer.

– Exotics Meet the Natives. Say hello to cheetahs, red pandas, meerkats, lemurs, small monkeys, crocodiles, alligators, and more. However, as much as I love to see different animals, I can’t help but feel sad that they are here in a foreign country against their will presumably.

– Great facilities including a fantastic playground for kids, a pretty decent outdoor cafeteria, ample toilets and a gift shop.

Doors of WordPress V125

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am showcasing a few more doors from one of my favourite suburbs in Sydney, Paddington. I have shown SO many doors from Paddington that I am truly amazed that there are still more to discover, it’s the gift that keeps on giving and I am here for it. As always, please let me know if you have a favourite this week.

My favourite this week is number three due to the unusual colour for a door, the transom window and arch above it. I also love how the security door is the same colour. How about you?

Doors of WordPress V124

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. I thought this week I would go back to basics and show case a few doors from Northern Ireland / Ireland that are still yet to be featured, as it has been a while. Let me know if you have a favourite this week.

1 – Athlone

2 – Enniskillen

3 – Newry

4 – Dundrum

5 – Finaghy

Ok, so for this week I will be picking number one as my favourite. It is highly unusual to spot a purple door and I love the design of the door as well as the surrounding archway. What about you?

Have a great day everyone and I look forward to seeing all your door entries over on Dan’s page.

Cebu

This is another very popular island in the Philippines that we were fortunate to visit. We were travelling here for my good friend’s wedding so it was extremely exciting to be here for something other than relaxation. It’s one thing to attend or be a part of a wedding but to experience it in another country / culture is right up my street. I love to be immersed in other cultures, learning their traditions, trying their food and being enveloped in their unrelenting hospitality. We spent a lot of time with my friends and their families which was really lovely, very welcoming and a lot of fun.

Suman Malagkit – a Filipino sticky rice cake made of sweetened glutinous rice steamed in banana leaves. We were encouraged to eat lots of these and we gladly did with a nice cup of coffee, made by the family.

We stayed at the Savoy Mactan Hotel Located just 15 minutes from Mactan-Cebu International Airport and nestled within The Mactan Newtown, a dynamic township featuring retail shops, office towers, and leisure facilities. The hotel boasts clean, modern rooms, friendly staff, and a convenient location, making it a great choice for both business and leisure travelers. They had a swimming pool on site and just a 10 minute walk away, you could find their infinity pool with poolside bar and cabanas. We chilled out here a lot after the wedding, the perfect spot to unwind and appreciate the hotels amenities.

Along the strip where the hotel is situated has many shops, a supermarket and plenty of stunning eateries. Our favourite place to eat and drink was a five minute walk from our hotel and just across the road from the strip. It was a little area consisting only of a food truck and a drinks van BUT the ambiance here was absolutely fantastic; the lighting, being outdoors and relatively cheap and tasty food made this the perfect place to hang out.

To conclude, we had the most amazing time in Cebu and the Philippines as a whole. It was great to see around but also to spend time with good friends and be a part of something really special. Thank you all for taking a look at our short trip and I look forward to showcasing my next holiday. Ps. take a look at the video below by Enya. You might know it, it’s called Orinoco Flow and it was the first time I had heard of Cebu (from Peru).

Boracay

This small island in the Philippines has long been a favourite for travellers seeking the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. While the island is only seven kilometres long, it packs a lot into a small space, especially along its famous White Beach, which is divided into three main areas: Station 1, Station 2, and Station 3. I have wanted to visit here for years as I have a good friend who is from this area and has always talked about how beautiful Boracay is.

Getting to Boracay involves flying into either Caticlan (Godofredo P. Ramos Airport), the closest and most convenient or Kalibo International Airport, which is about two hours away by road. From Caticlan, a short boat ride will whisk you across to the island, where paradise begins. This was the option we took and it was a real novelty to be taken to our destination by boat!

Station 1: Luxe and Laidback at The Lind

For a truly indulgent stay, Station 1 is where the upscale resorts and peaceful beachfront vibes live and The Lind Boracay is the jewel in its crown. We opted to stay here on a friend’s recommendation and boy were we glad we did. Perched right on the soft sands, The Lind blends modern luxury with tropical charm. Think of infinity pools with ocean views, breezy lounges, warm service, and stylish rooms that feel like a private hideaway. It’s the perfect base if you want a quieter, more refined slice of Boracay. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay here, the service was fantastic and the pool / gym amenities were greatly appreciated. The food was delicious too, we had breakfast included which is always a good way to start the day and they had themed nights also if you wanted something different from the standard menus.

Station 2: Buzz and Bargains at D’Mall

When you’re ready for a change of pace, a short stroll or quick e-trike ride takes you down to Station 2, the island’s lively heart. Here, you’ll find D’Mall, a bustling outdoor maze of shops, market stalls, cafés, and restaurants. It’s where flip-flops meet fashion, street food meets gelato, and beachwear meets bargain-hunting. From fresh mango shakes to island souvenirs and local eats, D’Mall is the place to dive into the energetic, colourful side of Boracay. We were lucky to have the hotel bus take us there and then we sauntered home along the beach in the evening, taking in the sunset and watching people make the most of the remaining daylight.

The beauty of Boracay is in its blend, stay in serene Station 1, play in vibrant Station 2, and if you’re curious, Station 3 offers a more rustic, backpacker-friendly scene (we didn’t venture here though). Whether you’re here for romance, relaxation, or just to roam barefoot through island life, Boracay delivers it all, with a sunset on the side, we absolutely loved it!

MANILA 🇵🇭

Exploring Manila’s Makati: A Tale of Three Neighbourhoods.

When you think of Manila’s modern heart, Makati often comes to mind, however, we picked this area as it had good reviews for tourists and it had different pockets to visit. Within this urban core lie three unique areas worth discovering: Bel-Air, Greenbelt, and Poblacion. Each brings its own energy, rhythm, and charm.

1. Bel-Air: Calm Behind the Buzz

Tucked just off the bustling avenues, Bel-Air Village offers an unexpected pocket of calm in the middle of the city. It’s a well-maintained residential enclave, home to embassies, expats, and local families. The streets are wide and leafy, and there’s a real sense of community here. It’s also just a short walk to the main roads, so you get the peace without missing out on convenience.

2. Greenbelt: Luxe and Lifestyle

A Manila icon, Greenbelt is more than just a mall – it’s a lifestyle complex that blends luxury shopping, lush gardens, fine dining, and a serene chapel at its centre. Whether you’re sipping coffee, shopping high fashion, or attending mass under the trees, Greenbelt offers an upscale escape right in the middle of Makati’s CBD. Great for business travellers or anyone looking for a polished Manila experience, just be aware, the designer shops are pretty pricey.

3. Poblacion: Manila’s Creative Pulse

Just a few blocks from the business district, Poblacion is where Manila lets its hair down. It’s gritty, colourful, and constantly evolving. With its street art, hole-in-the-wall bars, and indie eateries, Poblacion has become the city’s go-to spot for nightlife and creative culture. If Greenbelt is the polished suit, Poblacion is the leather jacket and we had really wanted to see the not so polished side of Makati.

Final Thoughts

Makati isn’t one-note, it’s a patchwork of experiences. Whether you’re after the quiet charm of Bel-Air, the refined atmosphere of Greenbelt, or the electric buzz of Poblacion, there’s something here for every mood and moment. However, Makati is just one part of Manila. There was SO much more to explore but we only had a couple of days to see the sights…which means that we will have to come back again!

Doors of WordPress V123 🇵🇭

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. In my previous doors post I had mentioned that I had only seen one door that stood out to me. I knew as soon as I said that, I would find more doors – it’s Sod’s Law! We took a walk through Makati Poblacion in Manila and I was able to spot three doors that I thought were pretty special. I am working on my Philippines blog posts and will be completed shortly but for now here is a sneak peak.

Doors of WordPress V122 🇵🇭

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. I am still on my holiday in the Philippines, currently in Manila with one more day to go. I thought I would have found an array of doors but sadly I have found only one!!! In saying that, I could still find more later today.

This door was found in D’Mall in Boracay, one of the many Filipino islands. D’Mall, Boracay is the vibrant heart of Station 2 on White Beach, an open-air “mall” blending shops, dining, entertainment, and services all within easy walking distance. Don’t be fooled like us by thinking we were going to a well air conditioned mall haha. We were in for a shock but this was ten times better. So much character and soul here with a fantastic door just waiting to be photographed. I think it leads to a store room but to me it looked like it could well lead to Aladdin’s cave, a cave full of treasures.

Doors of WordPress V120

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. This week I am featuring three doors from a lane that I discovered a couple of weeks ago in the heart of Sydney, known as Hayden Lane.

Hayden Lane in Darlinghurst has undergone a remarkable transformation from a neglected alleyway into a vibrant urban oasis, thanks to the dedicated efforts of local residents and artists.

From Neglect to Renewal

Once a dimly lit laneway plagued by illegal dumping and antisocial behavior, Hayden Lane was revitalized during the COVID-19 lockdown by a couple of long-time residents. Frustrated by the lack of action from authorities, they initiated a self-funded project to clean up the lane, removing rubbish and introducing greenery and art to the space. 

The transformation was a community-driven effort and the organisers received donations of plants, pots and other materials from local residents in the area, in addition to murals and paintings from a variety of artists.

Recognition and Impact

The revitalized Hayden Lane has become a symbol of community resilience and creativity. It has been featured on programs like Gardening Australia and recognized by local officials, including Member for Sydney Alex Greenwich, who commended the residents’ efforts in the NSW Parliament.  

I love the vibrancy of this lane and it is a real feast for the eyes. It’s somewhere to come and reflect and just appreciate the simpleness of beauty that nature can provide. It was so good that I came to visit a week later. The colourful doors are charming and you can imagine my excitement to even see some doors in this laneway. What a great place to come home to! Well done to all those involved, what an achievement!

Wayne’s Word – habibi

It’s a little nod to Wayne’s World, but instead of ‘party time, excellent’ (if you are aware of the cult nineties classic) I will be diving into one WORD each day. It could be something I learned, something bizarre that happened, a favourite word that I have rediscovered or just a thought that won’t leave me alone.

If you’re joining in on today’s word, feel free to use this tag to connect your post to the series: #WaynesWord

Today’s word is HABIBI.

Today’s word is a term of endearment from the Middle East and simply means “my love” or “my dear.”

It isn’t just for people you love, in Arabic-speaking communities, habibi is used for friends, family, kids, even the guy who makes your coffee just right every morning. It’s affection packed into a single, beautiful word and can be thought of as of the equivalent of “darling” or “sweetheart,” but with more cultural soul and musicality.

I first heard it in my nursing profession, when some Arabic patients would call me habibi for looking after them as a term of gratitude. I heard it again today and I thought, yes that’s a fantastic word.

I thought I would tie in my word today with a flower of the day, seeing as it’s Friday. Today I am showcasing the classic red rose.

In many Middle Eastern cultures, red roses often symbolize romantic love, so they’re commonly used in music, poetry, and art alongside terms like habibi. For example: in Arabic love poetry and songs, phrases like “ya habibi” are often paired with floral imagery.

Adelaide

Adelaide is the capital of South Australia, known for its vibrant arts scene, world-class wine regions, and festivals like the Adelaide Fringe. Often called the “City of Churches,” it’s also famous for its well-planned layout and proximity to stunning beaches and hills.

We had always wanted to visit Adelaide for the wineries but also to see the architecture and churches for ourselves. I love exploring new cities and while we’re living in Australia, I want to see as much of it as possible.

This city FAR exceeded our expectations! We absolutely loved it and could have stayed longer than the five days we had there. It’s such an easy city to navigate, very close to the airport, offered lots to see and had some very friendly people. I will showcase the highlights of our trip by providing the top ten things that we loved. There is so much more to do and see, therefore, we will have to return again in the not so distant future. We actually said we could see ourselves living here, it’s much quieter than Sydney and with less hustle and bustle.

1 – Adelaide Central Market

Bustling with local flavor, the Adelaide Central Market is a sensory feast of fresh produce, gourmet goods, and multicultural bites. It’s the perfect spot to sample the heart of South Australia’s food culture. Our hotel was just across the road so we were able to pop over for breakfast and lunch on a couple of occasions.

2 – Adelaide Botanic Garden

A serene oasis in the city, the Adelaide Botanic Garden features beautifully curated landscapes, historic glasshouses, and an impressive array of plant life. It’s ideal for a peaceful stroll or a quiet moment of inspiration. There was also an art installation when we were there, much to our delight. “Chihuly in the Botanic Garden” was an exclusive Australian exhibition showcasing 15 of Dale Chihuly’s monumental glass sculptures throughout Adelaide Botanic Garden.

3 – Wine Tour

South Australia’s wine country offers an unforgettable journey through rolling vineyards and cellar doors. Whether it’s Barossa, McLaren Vale, or the Adelaide Hills, each sip tells a story of the region’s rich environment. We booked a tour called ‘Adelaide Highlights, Hahndorf & McLaren Vale Wine Tasting and Sightseeing Tour’ with Viator and we couldn’t recommend it enough, too good. We stopped at Dog Ridge in McLaren Vale and The Broad Church (inside an actual church) – both offering delicious wines and a fantastic wine tasting setting.

4 – Hahndorf

Australia’s oldest surviving German settlement, Hahndorf charms with its half-timbered buildings, artisan shops, and cozy cafés. It’s a delightful blend of heritage and hospitality. We thoroughly enjoyed strolling through this historic village with its quaint little shops and historic architecture. A lot of history here and having a German background, I really loved this place.

5 – Architecture

Adelaide’s architecture is a thoughtful mix of colonial elegance and modern innovation. From grand sandstone buildings to sleek urban design, the city’s skyline tells a story of evolution and identity. Personally, the University of Adelaide was a stand out feature.

6 – Art

Art thrives in Adelaide, from its dynamic street murals to world-class galleries like the Art Gallery of South Australia. Creativity pulses through the city, making it a haven for lovers of the visual and performing arts. We didn’t have time to visit any galleries this time but the street art was exquisite.

7 – Food & Drinks

Adelaide is a foodie’s paradise, blending local ingredients with global influences. Whether it’s fine dining or a street food stall, every meal is crafted with pride and flavor. A couple of highlights were the markets and The Little Hunter for a good steak dinner and glass of red wine.

8 – Glenelg

A classic beachside escape, Glenelg offers sun, sand, and seaside charm just a tram ride from the city. It’s perfect for a sunset stroll, a swim, or fish and chips by the jetty. We only stopped here for a short time and it was raining but it looked fantastic. This is one place I would love to return to.

9 – Penfolds

One of Australia’s most iconic wineries, Penfolds offers an elegant experience rooted in tradition and craftsmanship. A tasting here is a journey through history, innovation, and world-renowned wines. This was the highlight for my partner, being a complete wine connoisseur and we were fortunate to have a private tasting that was both delicious and informative.

10 – Hotel Indigo

Stylish and contemporary, Hotel Indigo blends boutique luxury with local flair. Its design, dining, and service make it a standout stay in the heart of Adelaide. We absolutely loved staying at this boutique hotel, with its quirky charm, rooftop bar, eccentric restaurant and friendly staff. This is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike, making it a very busy spot so it was lovely to be actually staying here. The location of the hotel is great, across the road from the markets and just a stones throw away from China Town. You can also walk to the city centre in about fifteen minutes.

Thank you all for checking out my Adelaide post. I hope you all enjoyed it and maybe feel inspired to visit Adelaide one day. Ps. I will feature this in my Thursday Doors too as I have included a couple of doors 😜 . Be sure to check out some more of my Adelaide doors next week!

Doors of WordPress V118

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another wonderful week of doors. This week I am still showing some doors that I spotted a few weeks ago in Surry Hills, Sydney. This area is a door haven and I’m sure there must be some friendly competition here or the need to have a door that makes an impression. Again, let me know if you have a favourite this week.

1

2

3

4

5

I have to admit that I love ALL these doors and number 4 is a very close winner (the curtain makes it for me), however, number 5 is just something else! What a fantastic building for a police station, I love it. It reminds of something from The Flintstones!

PINK!

Thanks Sue and Gerry for this weekly prompt colour challenge! Being that it is pink today, I thought I had to participate as it is one of my favourite colours. I don’t own a lot of pink and too much can be overkill but I am partial to the odd pink flower or pink item of clothing.

I was taking a walk this morning after dropping my partner to work and I spotted numerous pink flowers on my route home, as well as a pink flower display in a shop window. It was obviously meant to be that they are shared today!

Have a great Sunday everyone! I am doing some work from home but the sun is splitting the trees so I’m hoping to get out for a bit after lunch.

Wayne

Doors of WordPress V117

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of doors. This week I’m doing something a little bit different but I am still showcasing four fabulous doors. I was in Paddington a couple of weeks ago and many of you will know that this is one of my favourite suburbs in Sydney. I used to visit here all the time for its beauty and quaintness, fortunately it also boasts a copious amount of fantastic doors.

As I was walking through I spotted two fantastic doors on a main street. They looked vaguely familiar but I couldn’t remember if I had ever photographed them before. It’s unusual and extremely fortunate if you are able to photograph them without parked cars in front, so I was delighted to catch a quick snap.

It was once I returned home and searched through my archives that I discovered that I had indeed witnessed these doors before and had also photographed them…without any cars in front again!!! I thought today it would be fun to play a little game of spot the difference. The first photo was taken in 2018 and then now again seven years later. I can spot at least eight differences in that timeframe. Let me know if you can spot them and / or any more in the comments section.

Feb 2018

April 2025

What an absolutely amazing building, so much character and fantastic doors and windows!!!

Doors of WordPress V116

Happy Thursday everyone and welcome to another week of wonderful doors. I am currently on a city break to Adelaide, South Australia so I will not be blogging too much but fear not, I am still on the lookout for great doors. I will share a fantastic door that I spotted today. Let me know your thoughts but I think it is very majestic / regal, reminding me of London. I can’t wait to share my trip of Adelaide with you all soon. All the best!

Adelaide, CBD

Happy Easter (2025)

I hope you’re all having a lovely day, whether you’re attending church, visiting family, having a lovely meal, going for a walk, eating lots of chocolate, relaxing at home or doing ALL these things, may it be filled with love, hope and happiness.

We took a drive to Kurnell (a seaside suburb in the Sutherland Shire) and packed a picnic to sit and take it the beauty of nature. We love to sit by the water and appreciate the surroundings, simple pleasures in life that we can often take for granted.

Returning home, we will cook a Sunday dinner that’s quite traditional of home, roast chicken, mashed potatoes, honey carrots and gravy, yummers!

See you all again next week.

Wayne

Doors of WordPress V115 🐣

It’s not too often you see an orange door. You can’t help but feel happy when you see it.

Happy Thursday everyone! This week I am simply showing you one amazing door and it is from Woollahra, Sydney when I was there last weekend. This door is very much in season. Firstly it is orange and really fits into the autumn season that we have just entered here in the southern hemisphere. Secondly, it has a really beautiful Easter wreath on the door that I absolutely love and it makes the door appear so festive for Easter this weekend.

On that note, I would like to wish you all a very happy Easter if you celebrate it and remember, it’s ok to indulge in a little chocolate at this time 😜.

All the best wishes,

Wayne

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