December was our third month of travelling. It marks the half way point of our 6 month tour and has brought us half way around the world!
We started the month continuing our Sri Lankan chapter from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya to Ela exploring tea plantations, hiking to waterfalls and catching trains. Craig nearly lost his phone to a bandit hiding in the bushes! From Ela we continued south to the coast and found paradise at Rekawa Beach where we combed the beaches, splashed in the waves and met the local wildlife, including dinosaur-esque monitor lizards . In Hikkaduwa we found giant turtles and Craig introduced Phoebe to his biker gang (of one).
From Sri Lanka we flew to Kuala Lumpur, switched to city life and spent our days eating our way around the metropolis, trying to avoid malls (Craig), and getting confused by Christmas trees and fake snow in the humid sunshine. Adventures included a clever monkey stealing Sophie’s drink, roller skating and eating as many rotis as possible.
Then our trip took an unexpected turn! Instead of continuing our travels in Malaysia we had a detour to Perth, thanks to a generous offer from a friend who invited us to gatecrash his Christmas. Two weeks later (and with another week to go!) we are still here and very much enjoying a break from the backpacking. January will see our return to Malaysia then we plan to travel onwards through Asia and further East.
Below are some of our December highlights…
Sarah – I loved how we changed our trip on a whim! Within a few hours we’d decided to travel to Australia (where we hadn’t planned to go) and booked a flight. This trip has helped me to appreciate living in the moment and grasping any opportunity! Perth has been a very well timed Christmas break and provided us with all the things we have been missing without even realising including a pet dog, people to socialise with the flexibility of our own car. For me Perth is a perfect opportunity to stretch my legs and go for a run as there are no stray dogs or unbearable humidity, pavements exist and it is culturally appropriate to see women’s legs in public. As per usual I also pick sunsets on the beach as an ongoing highlight.
Craig has been making the most of drinking beers with a good friend. And reminiscing about his last visit here in the 90s. I suspect he has also secretly enjoyed having a break from his girl gang and their relentless mall demands!
Phoebe – ‘I loved the convenience stores in KL as they had so many cool snacks including corn dogs, fried chicken and bubble tea. I also loved the outdoor cinema in Perth as there were comfy beanbags and it was a good movie (Paddington).’
Sophie loved Christmas in Australia! Luckily Santa found us and delivered the girls wish lists. She has also loved hanging out with Opal the pug, our surrogate Marmite.
One Response
This all looks much too comfortable and civilised. TIME TO MOVE ON 😄