Coastal Adventure

By Johanna Torres // 27 October 2010 // Comments: 0 // Related Categories: Surfers Paradise, Traveller blog

Knowing I was soon to be heading to the Gold Coast, I awoke excitedly and arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare before I was due to depart.

Knowing I was soon to be heading to the Gold Coast, I awoke excitedly and arrived at the airport with plenty of time to spare before I was due to depart. When I finally arrived I instantly understood why this part of the world is referred to as Surfers Paradise with the beach and its abundance of restaurants, designer clothing and nightclubs I eagerly headed out to explore the city and see what it was willing to offer this first time visitor. Hungry from the journey I decided my first stop would be the Hard Rock Cafe. The familiar decor and delicious food provided the perfect beginnings for a day of exploration.

After being told that the Gold Coast is home to some of Australia's best tattoo parlors I found myself drawn inside a store. Anxiety and hesitation were swept aside when I decided to get a very permanent souvenir!

Despite the unexpected rain, nothing was going to stunt my enthusiasm for my second day and a visit to Sea World, home to the worlds largest man made lagoon system. While there I came face to face with sharks and sting rays and was able to view the exotic fish from above and below water view.

Swimming with the dolphins was one of the best experiences I have ever had. As soon as I put on my wetsuit and entered the water I knew that it was well worth waiting in the rain! While touching the dolphins as they swam around me I was amazed by the softness of their skin and the friendly curiosity with which they approached me. After extending my arm, a dolphin eagerly placed its head against my hand, a moment I was lucky enough to have captured on film.

The twenty minute swim was truly magical and I was astounded by the intelligence and obedience of these creatures as they swam, danced and ate from my hand. The weather on Wednesday was beautiful as I stepped out onto my balcony and watched the waves break against the beach. I wasn't entirely sure of my itinery for the day so I was more than a little unprepared when I was informed that I was just about to have my first bungee jumping experience!

Entering the building I was intrigued by a wall that contained a long list of names. The "wall of shame", a testament to those not brave enough to make the final leap. After assuring my instructor how determined I was not to join the list, I was told one simply rule, All you have to remember is when I say 1,2,3 bungee you better jump. The longer you stay up there, the harder it will get.

As the elevator rose I was feeling confident, but as soon as the light turned green and the door opened I froze with fear. My instructor encouraged me and I realised that the time was now, either jump or regret it for the rest of my life. I threw my arms open and just did it. Screaming all the way to the bottom I remember thinking I was going to die and doubting the security of the rope tied around my ankle. The rush was incredible.

After finally being disentangled from the ropes I was still shaking. Still scared and still not believing what I had just done, I was speechless from the adrenalin.

After getting a feel for the extreme appeal of the Gold Coast, I was ready to explore the natural surroundings of the area, and despite assumptions that the Gold Coast is just for those who love to party, I can assure you there is a much calmer side. Binna Burry is located on the border between Queensland and New South Wales and is home to Lamington National Park. The park has a significant cultural history, once used by Aboriginal groups for the vast resources it provided.

Active volcanoes over 23 million years ago formed the site from different lava forms and created a unique array of plant species. I was inspired by the view from the rainforest which stretches to the city, making a spectacular site in the evening.

Next on my list of adventures was the Zorb. A zorb is basically a large, plump, inflatable ball. You then step inside the plastic contraption and roll down a long, steep hill. The hilarity of what followed while rattling inside a plastic ball was escalated when water was added making it impossible not to slip and slide all over the place. What a fun experience!

Dream World was the next stop I was scheduled to make, and I was excited about visiting somewhere with an array of rides, a water park and animals. Being a lover of reptiles, I was thrilled when I had the opportunity to have my photo taken holding a snake in my arms (a non-venomous snake that is.)

The most entertaining part was definitely watching the big cats. A performance that had the crowd astonished as the huge tigers leapt and jumped.

After viewing the animals, I decided to hit the rides! They were extreme. One in particular that I will never forget. The Tower of Terror. One of the fastest rides in the world, accelerating those aboard up 38 stories at speeds of over 150 kph. After the Tower of Terror and then The Giant Drop, the tallest free falling ride in the world, I was well and truly ready to head back to the hotel.

My week in the Gold Coast was an unforgettable adventure full of new experiences I had never even thought of having. I know now that when I look at my tattoo I will always remember an amazing trip.