WHITEHAVEN MAGIC

They say that when you are sea, time sits still. Fortunately for me, this was not the case as I celebrated my 25th birthday for the third time while in Australian waters.

The stage was set. The location was Witsunday's Islands just off of Airlie Beach. We begin by boarding a tall sailing ship that was over 100 years old. This would be our home for the next 3 days. When we set sail, we didn't know what lied ahead. Fortunately we were with a strong crew led by an experienced captain. It was as if Captain Cook himself was with us on our journey and was showing us the way through the islands.

This trip was by far the top highlight! Not only were we able to help sail into the open sea's, we snorkeled with the most colorful fish one can imagine, bushwacked through tropical rainforests, encountered wildlife no where else to be found and of course jumped off the bow of the ship into shark infested waters. The peak of the journey had to have been spending the afternoon on a place called Whitehaven Beach.

The sand was the finest I have ever seen. Because it was considered a national park, the island could only be reached by day and no one could stay there overnight. The water was so clear, you could see for several meters into the bottom of the ocean. Not a bad way to spend a birthday. A special thanks to Island Rice as well as she was able to notify the chef of this day and he made me a cake from scratch. Definately a birthday that will not be forgotten.
When you read about the top ten things to do in Australia, this set of islands is often in the top 3. For me, this would be number 1. Definately do not miss out on this opportunity if presented to you.

- lone asian