We arrived into Airlie at 5.30pm. We walked down the road to find our hostel, it wasn't too far, but carrying large backpacks, it was far enough. It was hot and sunny, yeah. We arrived at our dorm, we were apprehensive about who we would be sharing with as we booked an 8 bed dorm, our first night it was just us. The rest of the time we had a mixture and it wasnt too bad. We booked our trip to the Whitsundays, we finally agreed to do a day trip, I didn't fancy being on a boat overnight, done enough boats, and this would also keep the cost down. We opted for the Voyager 3 islands trip. So glad we did, it was fantastic day out. We visited Hook island first to do some snorkerling. I have never seen so many March flies, and they bite. Everyone was waving their arms around trying to swat them. The still attacked you when you were in the water snorkerling. Then there was the jelly fish, so many little white jellies, we were unsure if they hurt so in the end we gave up and went back to the boat. Next stop was Whitehaven beach on Whitsunday island. Absolutley spectacular, the sand is 99.89 silican, which doesn't heat up in the sun. It was so soft like icing sugar and it squeaked when you walked on it. Brilliant beach, so beautiful. Everyone had to wear stinger suits again as the jellies were out. Before going ashore we anchored and had lunch on the boat, so nice, lovely buffet, and in the morning we had cake and fruit and later in the afternoon we had more food, fruit and savoury snacks such as cheese and crackers, very good for the price. After lunch and soaking up the sun on Whitehaven Beach, we headed for Daydream Island. That was nice, we walked around the resort which is on the island, and later chilled out on the sun loungers before boarding the boat back to Airlie. Great day out, throughly enjoyed it and no sea sickness too. LOL. The rest of the time in Airlie was spent chilling by the lagoon, a man made pool area with beach and grassy area, as the beach at Airlie was a no go, because of the jellyfish again! We met up with a couple, Rob and Steph, who we met at Cairns, and spent some time with them which was good. Hopefully we are going to catch up with them again in Brisbane before they fly to the far east. Airlie was nice, although it's a party town, so there were alot of kids around just wanting to drink, no true travellers which Col and I have missed since leaving the far east. There were exceptions though, Rob and Steph. lol

Before leaving Airlie I contacted my Uncle and Aunt who I havent seen in 22 years. We planned to go to Rockhampton and I knew they lived near there, we arranged for them to pick us up from a hostel in Rocky. The nerves kicked in.

Next stop Rockhampton.