Day 13: On board getting closer to Cairns

Weather Update: Light rain, Sunny Intervals, Cloudy in the evening High 24c

The Long Journey North

Covering 1696.10 km in just over 25 hours, our journey was slightly delayed, arriving an hour and ten minutes late. I finally reached my hostel at 7:35 pm. On the train journey, we were all eager to get to our destination. The previous day, I managed to change my seat since the TV and headset connection was faulty in my original spot. I wasn’t about to sit there twiddling my thumbs for 25 hours!

Scenic Observations

Looking out of the window, I noticed the vast sugar cane industry and, as we got closer to Cairns, the banana plantations became more prominent. Along the tracks, many areas were visibly scarred by fires, but it was heartening to see the regrowth beginning. It’s a reminder of Mother Nature’s resilience, despite the damage caused by climate change and rising temperatures. Throughout history, the climate has always changed, but human activities are accelerating these changes at an unprecedented rate.

Dining on the Train

The food on the train was akin to airline meals but better than my experience with Qantas after leaving Auckland. The highlight was definitely the wine—$8 for a two-glass bottle of Shiraz. You didn’t have to twist my arm for that one!

Arriving in Cairns

We arrived in Cairns just after 6:15 pm. The warm temperatures and cloudy skies greeted me as I settled into my hostel by 7:45 pm. This hostel is the best I’ve ever stayed in, with excellent amenities and a prime location right in the city. And guess what? I scored a bottom bunk—hoorah!

Reflections

Travelling is always full of unexpected encounters and lessons. For those of you following my journey, I hope these updates provide an authentic glimpse into the realities of life on the road.

I had my first phone number on the Train that's all you get ladies from Housie lol

1 Train: 1695.10kms

Walking Today: 2.28km

Overall 2 Flights: 2403.27 km, 5 Trains: 2680.1km, 2 Buses: 217.75 km, 1 Car: 234 km,

Walking: 82.01m

Overall Total: 5665.68.30km, Average daily travel: [435.76 kms]

Cheers to the adventures ahead and the stories yet to unfold! 🌏✨🚆📷

Stay tuned for more updates as I continue my travels. Next stop: Exploring Cairns! 🌞✨

Feel free to share your thoughts and tips on making this blog more engaging. Let’s keep this journey interesting together! 🚀📖