Next stop down the coast is Airlie beach. It's a lovely little beach town but definitely backpacker town.

We met up with Suzy from our Asia tour. Felt like reuniting with family because we spent so much time with her. Had a couple of days to do the usual, lagoon in the day and bar at night routine. All towns by the beach in Oz have barbeques set up for the public to use. Such a good idea. So a group of us chipped in and had a barbie one evening.

The must-do activity in Airlie is a sailing trip to the Whitsundays, so we booked up and set sail on 'New Horizon' for a couple of nights.

Was a bit concerned about the whole sleeping on a boat with 30 other people situation but ended up having a great time. Went to Whitehaven beach which has the purest whitest sand in the world.

I was very brave and went snorkelling on the reef! Probably one of the most horrific moments of my life but I'm glad I did it. The coral is HUGE and looks like creepy fingers.... And there's fish. Only one panic attack which was an achievement.

Back at Airlie we had a farewell party with our fellow sailors and unfortunately got home at 3am..... Our bus is at 6. Ouch.