DAY 19 Horizontal Falls Locals call them the (Horries) and the falls are described by David Attenborough as a great natural wonder of the world. Located on the coast of the Kimberley region in Western Australia. The falls form when seawater rushes through two short and narrow gorges which are about three hundred metres (1,000 ft) apart. The falls are located in the coastal Mclarty Ranges within Talbot Bay and within the Buccaneer Archipelago. The seaward gap is about twenty metres (70 ft) wide. The landward one is about ten metres wide (30 ft). The natural wonder is caused by the sea level change due to tides of up to ten metres (33 ft). Water builds up on one side or the other of the gaps faster than it can flow through. Creating a wall of water up to four metres (13 ft) high. With the change of the tide, the direction of the falls reverses from inflow to outflow and back again. Cruise Kimberley Islands Captain Steve, dropped ships anchor in Talbot Bay. Tendercraft took those who decided on a helicopter flight to a pontoon floating in the bay. Helicopter doors removed and flown by a barefoot pilot. Best for the heat or a water ditch, I guess. The flight does several passes over the falls and back along the ranges. Quite often, rising air thermals buffer the helicopter on banking. Just the secure seatbelt to hold you in place stopping a fall to the water far below. Flight commentary is via passenger headsets. A few seaplanes bring people out of Broome. These flights were landing and taking off from Talbot Bay. Allowing passengers to disembark and go jet boating through the narrow gap of Horizontal Falls. Most of my ship mates and myself did the jet boat experience as an excursion extra. It is too dangerous for anything other than multi-engine jet boats to pass through the Horizontal Falls entrance. It can be likened to a high-speed thrill similar to jet boating in river canyons. But on steroids. All can expect a wet ride. Our ship MV Oceanic safely anchored alone in Talbot Bay for the night surrounded by rugged mountain ranges. There is no land access to Horizontal Falls by road or track. Seaplane or ship only. There are calls for a complete ban on travel to Horizontal Falls by the traditional landowners for the reason given below and cultural obligations. Access through the narrowest gap by tourist jet boat are discontinued as of 2023. Talks are ongoing between Dambeemangarddee Aboriginal Corporation and the Western Australian state government. Traveldriven Tuesday, May 30, 2023, Media Release Charges were laid last Friday 26 May 2023, against the master and company that owns the high-speed vessel Falls Express , which collided with rocks at Horizontal Falls on 27 May 2022 while carrying 25 passengers and 2 crew on an eco-tour of Talbot Bay in Western Australia. Dozens of people onboard Falls Express were seriously injured as a result of the domestic commercial vessel’s operation at high-speed through the narrow 7.5m gap at Horizontal Falls. The response effort, by emergency services and other domestic commercial vessels operating in the area at the time, was rapid and commendable. The Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) has meticulously investigated the incident, gathering, and analysing evidence over the past year. With support from the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions, charges have now been laid under the Marine Safety (Domestic Commercial Vessel) National Law Act 2012 (the “National Law”). The master, Edward James Whisson, has been charged with two safety-related offences— failing to take reasonable care, and not implementing and complying with the safety management system for the vessel and its operations. The owner, Journey Beyond Adventures Pty Ltd (trading as Horizontal Falls Seaplane Adventures), has been charged with two offences for failing to, so far as reasonably practicable, ensure the safety of the vessel, its equipment and the operation of the vessel; and failing to implement and maintain a safety management system that could ensure Falls Express, and its operations, were safe. As this matter will now proceed to the Magistrates Court of Western Australia, it would be inappropriate for AMSA to comment further. Australian Maritime Safety Authority CLICK/TAP TO ENTER HORIZONTAL FALLS GOOGLE MAPS ISLAND CAMPFIRE ON A HOT KIMBERLEY DAY MV OCEANIC & BROOME SEAPLANE HORIZONTAL FALLS BY HELICOPTER HORIZONTAL FALLS THROUGH THE GAP HORIZONTAL FALLS BY DAVID ATTENBOROUGH HORIZONTAL FALLS BY SEAPLANE HORIZONTAL FALLS JET BOAT CRASH 2022 A REST BETWEEN EXPEDITIONS CREW GETTING THE CRAFT READY TO EXPLORE HIGH TIDE MARK ISLAND SNACK OR DRYING WET HAT? NEST HIGH ON ROCKS EAGLE'S NEST GOING UP RIVER CROC SPOTTING COCKATOO ISLAND UNLOADING IRON ORE TRUCK OUT THE HATCH STEPS TO THE GALLEY INSIDE SHIP WALKWAY THE BOAT ENGINE ACTIVITIES FOR TODAY & SUE THE COOK ROLLED UP SWAGS PREV KIMBERLEY ISLANDS NEXT PREV WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

DAY 3 What it feels like to be nowhere? Then, drive Cocklebiddy to Balladonia 220km. -A no man's land. Outback Driving Although the one and only East\West road between the southern Australian states and Western Australia is fully sealed it's very remote and isolated country. The Eyre Highway skirts the fringe of the Nullarbor Plain and the highway has the longest stretch of straight road in Australia. Perhaps is one of the longest in the world. Needless to say, there is no road side fencing. No roadside train tracks, no power lines, few trees and no signs of civilisation for hours of driving, just the never ending road. NASA FIRST SPACE STATION 'SKYLAB' 1974 Cocklebiddy Western Australia The area is basically a roadhouse. The name of the roadhouse is the Wedgetail Inn and has a caravan park, and hotel motel facilities. Balladonia Beyond the Nullarbor Is a small roadhouse settlement across the border on the Eyre Highway in Western Australia. The Balladonia roadhouse has a display of Skylab debris and newspaper clippings, as well as hotel and motel rooms. In July 1979, the area gained global attention with the re-entry of Skylab. An orbiting NASA space station. A long trail of small debris was scattered across the nearby countryside. Traveldriven SKYLAB RE-ENTRY ON BALLADONIA BALLADONIA WESTERN AUSTRALIA TOURIST BOARD INTERESTING LONG & STRAIGHT DRIVE LONG DRIVE FOR A NULLARBOR STICKER SEDAN DRIVING OUTBACK HIGHWAYS DISPLAY SIGN 1,234,567 KANGAROO'S ONLY OUTNUMBERED BY THE FLIES KANGAROO NUMBER ON SIGN IS WAY TOO LOW lol PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT PREV WESTERN AUSTRALIA NEXT HOMEPAGE

LOCH NESS CRUISE ON THE LAKE Loch Ness deepest point is two hundred and thirty metres. (126 fathoms; 755 ft). Full day bus tours are available to Loch Ness leaving from Edinburgh. Tours take tourists through the Scottish Highlands and countryside. Views are of roadside highland cattle and farms dotted around the countryside. The tour bus driver with a thick Scottish accent added a unique charm to our journey. Despite the initial challenge of deciphering his words, we soon found ourselves captivated by the melodic cadence of his speech. His accent painted a vivid picture of his homeland, transporting us to the rugged landscapes and historic castles of Scotland with each word he spoke. As we traversed the winding roads and rolling hills, his stories of local folklore and traditions enriched our experience, providing us with a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry of the region. Though there were moments of confusion, we embraced the opportunity to learn more about his heritage and appreciated the authenticity he brought to our tour. In the end, the bus driver's Scottish accent became an integral part of our adventure, leaving us with lasting memories of a truly immersive and unforgettable journey. There is much friendly rivalry between east and west Scottish cities according to the driver. Particularly Edinburgh and Glasgow. On Loch Ness & Nessie The tour boat experience on Loch Ness was truly exceptional, thanks to the highly knowledgeable and engaging guides on board. These guides not only provided valuable information about the history and geography of the area but also delved into the intriguing legend of Nessie, the mythical creature said to inhabit the depths of the loch. Their insights and expertise added a fascinating layer to the tour, sparking discussions and debates among the passengers. One of the most compelling aspects of the tour was the guide's opinion on the legend of Nessie. With a blend of facts, folklore, and personal anecdotes, the guide presented a compelling case that resonated with many on the boat. Their perspective shed new light on the mystery surrounding Nessie, offering a plausible explanation that seemed to strike a chord with those seeking to unravel the truth behind the myth. As the boat glided across the serene waters of Loch Ness, passengers were not only treated to breathtaking views of the Scottish Highlands but also to a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of the legendary creature said to lurk below. The guides' passion for their subject was palpable, and their ability to weave together history, science, and local lore created a truly immersive and enlightening experience for all on board. By the end of the tour, many passengers found themselves pondering the guide's words and reflecting on the age-old mystery of Nessie. Whether a believer or a skeptic, everyone aboard the tour boat on Loch Ness departed with a newfound appreciation for the enduring legend that continues to capture the imagination of people around the world. The only Nessie sighting on the day was the sticker on the window of the boat. Traveldriven CLICK TO ENTER LOCH NESS https://www.google.com/maps /place/Loch+Ness LOCH NESS LAKE CRUISE NESSIE THROUGH THE WINDOW NESSIE SPOTTED ON THE LOCH? PAUSIBLE EXPLANATION OF LOCH NESS MONSTER PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy (CIDP) A rare neurological disorder. Targets your body's nerves all of which interact with the muscles within the body. Symptoms vary widely among individuals. Characterised by progressive weakness and impaired sensory function in both legs, feet, arms and hands. Weakened respiratory muscles are a common symptom. CIDP prevalence is approximately 600 people in any one year in Australia of a population of 25 million. Not hereditary nor infectious. Not a psychiatric or nervous disorder. Causes inflammation of nerves and nerve damage primarily to the insulating myelin sheaths around nerve fibres. Classified as an autoimmune disease. The disease may occur at any age. No known causes of why the immune system attacks the nerves of otherwise healthy people. A positive diagnosis of CIDP is possible with evidence of damage to peripheral nerve myelin from nerve conduction tests and a lumber puncture. Quadriplegia and or respiratory failure causing death has been cited in rare instances. Gullain-Barre Syndrome (GBS) is regarded as the acute form of the condition. Traveldriven BACKYARD BREAK SMOKO IN THE BACKYARD CIDP MOBILITY ASSISTS NOT REQUIRED TWO YEARS OF CIDP (23 months from hospitalisation) Four years living with CIDP & IVIG Five years living with CIDP & IVIG Otherwise in good health, no other issues INFLAMMATORY NEUROPATHY SUPPORT GROUP of VICTORIA Melbourne Christmas Luncheon 2023 LUNCHEON FUND RAISING AUCTION NEXT, CIDP WRITTEN STORY FIVE YEARS PREV CIDP NEXT HOMEPAGE

Finishing the meal and seeing the Mad Max vehicles drive past, I also needed to hurry on to Mundi Mundi Lookout behind them before sunset. - Traveldriven Silverton, Mad Max in Outback Australia The town has a population of about fifty. Located in the far west of New South Wales in Outback Australia. Twenty-six kilometres north-west of Broken Hill along a sealed road. Surrounding Silverton are the locations of Mad Max 2 movie sites. Accommodation is available within the Silverton Hotel. Rear of the hotel there are units for guests. There are also Penrose Park edge of town camp sites. Lamb Meat Pie and onto Mundi Mundi Lookout Eating a tasty lamb pie from the Silverton bakery for lunch a Mad Max interceptor arrived out the front. A local Broken Hill police patrol car had just left the bakery. Good timing. During dinner, seated at a table and chairs outside the swinging doors of the Silverton Hotel, I enjoyed a hamburger and a cold light beer. All of a sudden, I noticed vehicles and motorbikes with a Mad Max theme from Wasteland driving past the hotel at the very end of the street, on their way to Mundi Mundi Lookout for a sunset gathering. For a brief moment I thought of Goose the MFP motorbike rider from the original Mad Max film. Eating his meal at a roadside diner with a chase going past. Goose jumped on his bike and joined the chase. Finishing the meal and seeing the Mad Max vehicles drive past, I also needed to hurry on to Mundi Mundi Lookout behind them before sunset. Traveldriven SILVERTON GOOGLE MAPS SILVERTOWN Mad Max and driving the interceptor Parking in front of the Silvertown Bakery. Apparently, the driver of the interceptor drove from Cobar NSW to Outback Silvertown a distance of about 460 km for the Mad Max 2 40th anniversary gathering. 'Kick it in the guts Barry' supercharger. Mad Max movie scene, bridge incident Mad Max Ford Falcon MAD MAX 1 SCENE GOOSE JOINS THE CHASE AT DINER EAT A MEAL OUT THE FRONT HAMBURGER WITH THE LOT $22 Eating a hamburger and Mad Max vehicles driving past to Mundi Mundi Lookout THE INTERCEPTOR LOVE CHILD BROKEN HILL PROPRIETARY COMPANY SILVERTON 'ORIGINAL OUTBACK' HOTEL BACKYARD ABANDONED HOUSE AND SCOOTER OFF THE MAIN STREET, SILVERTON SHOP FRONT 1987 MUSTANG & MAD MAX MUSEUM SILVERTON PARKED IN THE MAIN STREET ART STORE & ARTIST WORK SHED SILVERTON JAIL CELL HOMETOWN OF MAD MAX? SILVERTON & SILVER CITY HIGHWAY 2007 PREV NSW NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

The lone barman broke a wooden bar stool for self-protection. -Timber Creek Hotel Timber Creek Timber Creek is an isolated small town a short distance from the Victoria River in the Northern Territory. The Victoria Highway, part of the National Australia Highway Network, passes through the town. Timber Creek is the only significant town and settlement between Kununurra in Western Australia 225 km west and Katherine 290 km to the east in the Northern Territory. Timber Creek is a town of two hundred and fifty residents. The one and only Caravan Park is next to the Timber Creek Hotel. I was directed by park management to erect my tent on a grassed area near a small creek to the rear of the park. My tent was the only one within the park. With the benefit of hindsight, I should have stayed in a very reasonably priced onsite unit. Sleepless Night I was unable to sleep because of the many thousands of flying foxes roosting in the nearby billabong overnight. So, I tried to gain uninterrupted sleep in my car. The wildlife commotion was too great, so I returned to the tent gaining virtually no sleep. The billabong is frequented by fresh water crocs. In fact, a large freshwater croc (two to three metres in length) is often seen sunning itself within the caravan park on the near side of the creekbank. I was told; Park management regularly feed the croc. Freshwater crocs are regarded as harmless if not approached. Saltwater crocodiles are in the Victoria River a few km away. Upon check-in the park owner joked I should be ok overnight as no dogs have gone missing in a while from saltwater crocodile attacks. The next morning a fellow park resident in a caravan commented to me he and his wife were wondering if I would possibly still be here. Perhaps taken by a crocodile overnight. During the morning conversation they mentioned the previous day a large python was sighted wrapped around a tree trunk across the otherside of the small walk bridge connecting the Billabong and caravan park. Less than one hundred metres from unpowered camping sites. My site the closest and lone tent. Maybe the caravan park wasn't one hundred percent as safe as I thought. Wouldn't do it again in a tent. Although the river is several km away the creek is open to the Victoria River and its large population of saltwater crocodiles. Troublesome Ruckus Years ago, on a solo road trip I stopped overnight at the same Timber Creek Campground next to the hotel. I had not long finished a Hotel meal in the bar when visiting workers of a road maintenance gang caused a night ruckus in the pub with local indigenous people. The indigenous promptly left the premises. Immediately a chorus of baiting chants were heard emulating from outside the hotel. Pool table cue's were gathered and bar stools. The lone barman broke a wooden bar stool for self-protection. After a good while things calmed down. Baiting chants fading. No local police. Nearest authorities many hours' drive away. Perhaps as far as Katherine NT or Kununurra in Western Australia over two and a half hours drive away? As far as I was concerned the local indigenous people kept to themselves and caused no trouble. But would you endeavour to leave the hotel on the fall of darkness with the ruckus created by others putting yourself at risk in the immediate vicinity? Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP TIMBER CREEK GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE TIMBER CREEK - VICTORIA RIVER ROADHOUSE - KATHERINE VICTORIA RIVER SALTWATER CROCODILE FADED SIGN WITHIN CARAVAN PARK TIMBER CREEK TENT SITE & WALKWAY TO THE WILD SIDE TRAVELDRIVEN TENT SITE RESTLESS NIGHT BESIDE CREEK VERY NOISY BATS PAST THE FOOTBRIDGE CARAVAN PARK AND CAMPING GROUND TIMBER CREEK BOAB TREE & ROADSIDE GRAVE VICTORIA RIVER HIGHWAY WA/NT BORDER ROAD TRAIN TYRE SMOKE? PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

QUEENSTOWN A resort town, or rather a regional city, in Otago in the south-west of New Zealand's South Island. Resident population of about sixteen thousand. Tourists swell this number by the thousands. Queenstown is built around an inlet called Queenstown Bay on Lake Wakatipu, a long, thin, Z-shaped lake. Spectacular views are of nearby mountains such as The Remarkables, Cecil Peak and Walter Peak. All are often snowcapped and the area is well known for its snow skiing. Glenorchy Is a small settlement at the northern end of Lake Wakatipu in the South Island region of Otago, New Zealand. It is forty-five km (28 mi) by road or about the same by boat from Queenstown. There are two pubs, a café and a number of small shops in the town catering mainly to tourists but also to the small-town population. Driving in Queenstown  is fairly easy. Some streets are narrow and one way. Many tourist activities are in the town and surrounds. On Lake Wakatipu foreshore there is a larger than life statue of a Kiwi  bird. This flightless bird is only found in New Zealand and is a nickname for all people born in New Zealand. Almost becoming endangered from predatory introduced animals, they now number about seventy thousand and individuals can live longer than twenty years. They are a nocturnal bird and are found in ground burrows. The Kiwi's claws are sharp and dangerous. Glenorchy is mainly on flat terrain tucked up to extensive mountainous, snowcapped areas and Lake Wakatipu. To visit Glenorchy the only option is to drive and return back to Queenstown on the same road. The entire Queenstown - Glenorchy road is driven next to scenic Lake Wakatipu with views to The Remarkables range across the water. The views are quite remarkable. Pun intended. The often snowcapped remarkable, " The Remarkables " mountain range runs the length of Lake Wakatipu. Queenstown to Glenorchy road is a well maintained very scenic sealed road hugging the foreshore. Generally, vehicle snow chains are not required. I know of two other Glenorchy namesakes. One in Victoria and one in Tasmania and have been to all three. Lake cruises depart Queenstown daily and cross Lake Wakatipu to Walter Peak High Country Farm aboard the historic steamship TSS Earnslaw. It's very relaxing gliding along the water with spectacular mountain views. Sometimes goats are seen grazing on the steep slopes beneath the Queenstown Chairlift. Lake Tekapo is just short of 300 km from Queenstown and on the road to Mount Cook National Park. During winter and spring months the Southern Lights or 'Aurora Australis' may sometimes be seen in the night sky. Traveldriven QUEENSTOWN GOOGLE MAPS GLENORCHY GOOGLE MAPS LAKE TEKAPO GOOGLE MAPS Queenstown Chairlift Queenstown the most remarkable Remarkables Range Giant Kiwi Queenstown SHOTOVER JET BOAT ON THE SHOTOVER RIVER Hit the road in a hire car Queenstown to Glenorchy Road On the road to Glenorchy WELCOME TO PARADISE Lake Wakatipu and the 45 km drive to Glenorchy GLENORCHY TIME The Church of the Good Shepherd, Lake Tekapo Lake Tekapo PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Arrowtown is a small historic gold mining town in the Otago region of the South Island of New Zealand. The town is on the banks of the Arrow River about seven km from State Highway 6. There is road access directly to Queenstown via the Shotover Gorge. Also, via Lake Hayes. Arrowtown is an easy twenty minute drive from Queenstown. Whilst in Arrowtown a vintage car display was on show. Anything from days gone by. Themed attire. Cars and other vehicles. Market stalls and a brass band played tunes. Ideal weather. Very laid-back atmosphere compared to the hustle and bustle of nearby Queenstown. A very good contrast. Everyone enjoying the outdoor entertainment. Traveldriven ENTER CLICK/TAP ARROWTOWN GOOGLE MAPS OLD TIMER? NEW ZEALAND CRACKS PEOPLE UP LAND OF THE BIG SHEEP DOG ARROWTOWN VINTAGE CARS VINTAGE PUSH BIKE VINTAGE DRESS TWO OLD TIMERS VINTAGE DRIVE LAND OF THE RABBITS? PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE POST

WYCLIFFE WELL of the NORTHERN TERRITORY The area has a claim to be the UFO centre of Australia. Wycliffe Well used to be a welcome service stop for highway traffic but now as of 2025 has fallen into ruin. Services and fuel are no longer available. The general area is deserted and trashed by vandalism. The photos below are of before the closure of the roadhouse and fuel service station. Wycliffe Well’s UFOs sightings started during World War II when servicemen living in Wycliffe Well started keeping records of nightly observed unidentified objects. Despite being observed on many occasions these objects were never satisfactorily explained. Lights are still seen to this day. Very remote and isolated area. Desert country. Roaming roadside wildlife or even livestock are more of a concern than UFO encounters. No livestock is fenced and there is always the chance of native wildlife such as kangaroo bolting across the highway where there is very little in the way of vehicle repair in these remote areas of the Northern Territory of Australia. Traveldriven DRIVE DEVILS MARBLES - WYCLIFFE WELL - AILERON - ONTO ALICE SPRINGS A NEW FRIEND IN WYCLIFFE WELL OUTBACK UFO's? AILERON MAN AILERON WOMAN OUTBACK ROADHOUSES ALIENS IN AN ALIEN LAND OUT OF THIS WORLD UFO'S IN THE OUTBACK WYCLFFE WELL, ALIENS INSIDE UFO NEWSPAPER CLIPPINGS ALIENS IN THE SKY, NOW ON THE ROOF TROPIC OF CAPRICORN TROPIC OF CAPRICORN MARKER OUTBACK WILDLIFE IS SCARIER THAN ALIENS PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Tiny minnow fish brush your skin in the crystal clear water. - Katherine Hot Springs Katherine In The Northern Territory Katherine is an inland town in the Northern Territory of Australia. Settled around the Katherine River three hundred and twenty kilometres southeast of Darwin. The RAAF Base Tindal is about twenty km out of town. Apparently, the base employs up to one thousand people. On enquiry, I was told there is no public observation area to watch aircraft operations. Katherine Hot Springs Located alongside Riverbank Drive next to the Katherine River. Katherine Hot Springs provide safe swimming and barbecue facilities. Amongst shady gums and paperback trees. There are paved foot traffic areas. The springs are very popular with locals and tourists alike. It's the best place to cool off in town and next to the Katherine River. Many wade and swim in the crystal-clear water. The springs are free to swim in and safe. The water is twenty-five to thirty degrees Celsius. The Springs are open in the dry season months and closed in the wet season from seasonal flooding. Katherine Gorge is also recommended and is about a thirty km drive from Katherine. Canoes can be hired in the dry season. There are freshwater crocodiles only and no saltwater crocodiles. Katherine Gorge is made up of thirteen gorges. During the dry season the gorges are often separated as the water level drops. Canoes must be carried by hand between gorges. Hire a canoe and explore the first three gorges. Tour boat cruises can go as far as the second to fifth gorge. Walking is short and requires basic fitness over dry rock between the water filled gorges. After the fifth gorge more walking and fitness is required. Katherine is 300 km south of Darwin. On this roadtrip I bypassed both Darwin and Kakadu. Traveldriven KATHERINE GOOGLE MAPS KATHERINE GORGE GOOGLE MAPS KATHERINE HOT SPRINGS GOOGLE MAPS DRIVE TIMBER CREEK - VICTORIA RIVER ROADHOUSE - KATHERINE KATHERINE ROADSIDE SIGN FIREWORKS FOR SALE LEGAL ONE DAY A YEAR FREE HOT SPRINGS SWIM & SAFE HOT SPRINGS & COOL OFF TIME COOL OFF TIME FOR MANY FREE HOT SPRINGS POPULAR WITH LOCALS ENTRY TO THE HOT SPRINGS KATHERINE GORGE Molly's roadtrip passing through Katherine's Hot Springs at the video's nine minute point. Would have to agree on comments. Very accessible, safe, warm crystal clear water with small fish. Likely to be very few people. Dry season use only. Closed in the wet season months. Thankyou to Molly Dixon Youtube channel for enabling sharing. Traveldriven PREV SA/WA/NT NEXT HOMEPAGE

Port Vila Known simply as Vila, Port Vila is the capital and largest city of Vanuatu. The city is situated on the island of Efate, a tropical paradise in the South Pacific. Despite its small population of less than fifty thousand, Port Vila is a vibrant hub of culture and commerce, blending traditional Melanesian influences with a touch of modernity. Port Vila, located approximately 2,500 km from Sydney, exudes a unique charm that sets it apart from other capital cities. The cityscape is a mix of colonial architecture and bustling markets, creating a mosaic of sights and sounds that captivate visitors. The streets are frequently bordered by numerous old and poorly maintained retail buildings, each narrating the city's rich history and recent neglect by certain landowners. The gap between the wealthy and the poor is evident to everyone. As you navigate the streets of Port Vila, you'll notice the high fenced and guarded entry to the port shipping, a reminder of the city's strategic importance as a trading hub. The availability of taxis, although plentiful, often reflects the city's infrastructure challenges, with many vehicles in poor condition. From taxis emitting cloudy exhaust smoke to suspect brake noises, the city's transportation system may seem chaotic yet strangely functional. Port Vila's tropical climate, characterised by high humidity and brief torrential rain downpours, adds to the city's allure. Despite the challenges posed by the weather, the bustling streets are filled with a mix of cars and people, especially during cruise ship visits when the city comes alive with activity. Interacting with the friendly store holders and exploring the market stalls reveals a treasure trove of wares, from local handicrafts to exotic fruits, creating a sensory experience that is truly unforgettable. While Port Vila may be reminiscent of a third world city in some respects, it is undeniably a fascinating destination that offers a glimpse into the heart of Vanuatu. The city's unique blend of cultures, vibrant markets, and welcoming locals make it an adventure for travellers seeking an authentic island experience. Traveldriven PORT VILA GOOGLE MAPS PORT OF CALL PORT VILA PORT VILA STREET MARKET GUITAR PLAYER PORT VILA STREET MARKET IN THE TROPICAL RAIN LEFT HAND DRIVE PORT VILA TAXI TORRENTIAL RAIN, TRAFFIC AND CABIN EXHAUST SMOKE DONATIONS TO PORT VILA HOSPITAL CARVINGS BY ISLAND NATIVES ON ISLE OF PINES 100 KM SOUTHEAST OF NOUMEA, VANUATU PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE

Nouméa The capital and largest city of New Caledonia is Nouméa, a bustling urban center that offers a unique blend of French influence and tropical charm. With a population of just under two hundred thousand residents in Greater Nouméa, the city boasts a vibrant atmosphere and a range of attractions to explore. Nouméa stands out for its modern infrastructure and well-maintained amenities, making it a pleasant destination for visitors seeking a mix of urban conveniences and natural beauty. The city is known for its picturesque lookouts that provide stunning elevated views of the surrounding landscapes, offering a glimpse into the diverse terrain of tropical New Caledonia. One of the highlights of Nouméa is the brightly colored Wiki Wiki tourist train, a popular mode of transportation that takes tourists on a scenic journey around the city's key sights. From the dockside to charming French style cafes, Nouméa exudes a welcoming ambiance that invites travellers to relax and soak in the tropical vibes. Despite the frequent tropical downpours and heavy humidity that characterise the region, Nouméa's friendly locals and vibrant culture create a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors. The city's proximity to Sydney, just 2,000 km away, makes it an accessible destination for those looking to escape to a tropical paradise. Whether you're sipping a coffee at a clean and well-kept cafe or exploring the city's French-inspired architecture, Nouméa offers a unique blend of modernity and natural beauty that leaves a lasting impression. With direct jet flights available from Sydney, Nouméa is a convenient and captivating destination that promises an unforgettable experience for all who visit. Just remember to bring your passport for a hassle-free journey to this tropical gem. Traveldriven NOUMEA GOOGLE MAPS BLUES BROTHERS WIKI WIKI DOCKSIDE TOURIST TRAIN NOUMEA WHARF TOURIST TRAIN One of the very few run down Noumea buildings similar to most buildings in central Port Vila SOUTH PACIFIC ISLANDS SUNSET PREV PAGE NEXT HOMEPAGE