Train ride was a bit snug. Since the train was completely full I was not able to lay down the whole time. Got a little daylight during the ride to see the countryside which was nice. Overall, was not too bad since the man next to me left halfway through the trip. I listed to a little David Sedaris about hitchhiking. Seems to parallel with couchsurfing and warmshowers in a way. Except, your pool of people are different. Warmshowers especially since the pool are cyclists or people interested in cycling touring. I imagine many people are skeptical about others who open their doors to strangers. As an idealist in many respects, my experiences are a testament to how great people can be.
Rose, my host in Brisbane has been another great example. After arriving in Brisbane and setting up my bike one more time, I called Rose and soon found my way around the city at our meeting spot with her granddaughter, a cute little 3 year old. After getting settled, I enjoyed having a cup of tea and a sandwich with Rose. We talked about neighbourhood bike works and my goal to raise money for the group. We also talked about my time mentoring for PennPals. That's right Rasheed and Van, I haven't forgot about you two!
Rose has had a very interesting life, living in England, Uganda, New Zealand and Australia. She was kind enough to take me into the city for a cup of coffee alongside the river. We enjoyed our time talking about various issues. I learned much about the city and Australia. Brisbane, like Australia was set up by convicts as a penal colony. The city is very beautiful and it appears that many of the major sky scrappers have been recently built. The river cuts through the city and reminds me of a younger modern version of venice. There are still remnants of the winter flooding, but the city has certainly recovered quickly. Rose and I also got a chance to see the Endeavour a direct replica of the original ship Captain James Cook used to explore Australia and the surrounding islands.
After seeing the city lights of Brisbane, I enjoyed a dinner with Rose's husband, Ian and their friend, Rick. I discussed with Ian and Rick over dinner my plan to be a navy dentist. We talked also about life and Australia, military history, and traveling in general. Rick has done some cycling touring which I found interesting. He cycled through the U.S. and Mexico. HIs travels in mexico are especially interesting since I had not heard of many attempting a tour in Mexico. Rick made a delicious helping of sausage, potatoes, and greens. We enjoyed some desert liquors afterwards as well from Ian. Rick and Ian also have experience sailing which I enjoyed hearing about and I anticipate I will have my own experiences some day. Rick also has a summer home by Nelson along the sounds and a house in Russia! Soon I will be off out of bed...ready to tour once again!
View Sydney to Brisbane in a larger map
Ian and Rose in front of their home
Ian, Rick, and Me
City Centre
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