So, we're in Alice Springs. Hardly got any sleep last night (one hour) cos I was making difficult decisions about what to send back home with my mum and what to keep. Luckily my backpack's quite light now but that's mainly cos it's hot here and I only need light clothes. I'm sure it will double in size when I get to cold N.Zealand.

Anyway, Alice Springs is a very odd place - I find it odd anyway. Walking around and seeing the aboriginal people around the streets (many poorly dressed and sad looking) makes me feel for them. They don't look happy to me. I walked into the huge shopping centre just now and it was full of happy westerners shopping and dining... the huge contrast between the people makes me feel a bit uncomfortable. I don't know much about the history of the aboriginal people but when I find out I will definately update you. It's very very hot here and generally a quiet, smallish town revolving around this large shopping area.

Me and Maya are starting the 3 day trip tomorrow which will take us to Kings Canyon and Ayres Rock. We will be camping out 1 night in tents which should be quite fun. We are staying in a backpackers at the moment which is actually very nice and we're sharing our kitchen with this cute Italian guy with gorgeous blue/green eyes - he's travelling around Australia for 1 month with his dad which I thought was quite sweet.

When we were catching the cab to the airport this morning everyone was crying - Maya, mum and nearly me cos we don't know when we'll see her again and it feels like we're alone in the big wide world again. Sorry, I'm starting to sound depressed now. Actually, I will be on my own for the rest of Australia after this (6 weeks) and also for New Zealand (3 weeks) so if anyone wants to keep me company you are most welcome.

Bye xxxx