Covid19 pandemic had postponed this trip. This was originally planned for year 2020. The Australian government gave me the chance to reapply for the visa and this time I was granted the multiple entry for a year.
As was originally planned, I started my journey from Melbourne and finished in Sydney. The Ayer's Rock in Uluru was formerly part of the itinerary. But after the pandemic, it is yet to reopen for tourism.
Melbourne
I started my trip on March 31st; stayed at Melbourne City for 5 nights and another 5 in Sydney City. Observed 2 international events in Melbourne, the International Flower Festival and the Formula 1 Grand Prix, and the Catholic rituals in Sydney with fellow Filipinos.
- City Walk Tours
- International Flower Fest
- Great Ocean Road
- Penguin Parade
My train ride from Melbourne's Southern Cross Station to Sydney's Central Station took 14 hours, with 2 hours delay at Harden Station.
Sydney
My best |x|perience in the country was the ease of using an electronic card for all transactions. A single credit card or bank card can be used to take transports, dine, and shop. No need of buying separate or different tickets. Digitalization is real and smart here!!!
- City Walk Tours
After spending 1 night at Big Backpackers Hostel in Sydney, I stayed in my cousin's house in St. Claire over the holidays. Manang Maryluz Boiser Stanshall, and husband Kevin, showed me around and introduced me to their closest Filipino community.
Filipinos brought with them the culture and tradition in observing the Lenten Season, from attending the Christian rituals to sharing "Cuaresma" foods especially during the Holy Week. They have wonderful Australian lives.
- Holy Week with Filipinos
- Blue Mountains
- Beach Hopping
