Saturday 25th April - Adelaide

Claire and I went our separate ways. I headed off first flying to Adelaide. I saw little of what was below due to the very thick and grey clouds which were ready to burst. I quickly headed into to watch the Anzac Parade.

Anzac Day is a national day of remembrance in Australia and New Zealand, and is commemorated by both countries on 25 April every year to honour members of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps (ANZAC) who fought at Gallipoli in Turkey during World War I. It now more broadly commemorates all those who died and served in military operations for the country.

Sure enough the heavens opened and everything was shut (Museums, Galleries, Cafes, Bars and Restaurants) and I was left wet and cold with little to do other than head back to the Hostel to watch a couple of movies.

Sunday 26th April - Adelaide to Alice Springs

In the morning I headed off to board the Ghan Railway my home for the next 25 hours. The Ghan is a famous train that runs straight through the middle of Australia and connects the South (Adelaide) and North (Darwin) Coasts. A train known for its waiter service, beautiful cabins, Top-Class Chefs and super comfort - unfortunately I would see none of this sophistication. Being in 'red class' I would have to do with my small seat and buffet cart. Despite my humble seat I thoroughly enjoyed watching the sun setting and rising over the changing landscapes and chatting (and drinking a few beers) with my fellow 'red class' passengers.

Monday 27th April - Alice Springs

I arrived to Blue Skies and a dry heat. After a quick freshen up I walked to town and ate rare Kangaroo fillet (yummy). Full of spring I explored the surroundings before heading back to enjoy a minestrone soup (and more beers) cooked for me by me Italian neighbours.

Tuesday 28th April - Kings Canyon / Uluru / Kata Tjuta

6am - and wishing I had only 1 beer the night before - I boarded my coach for a 2 day tour into the middle of Australia. First day was a three and a half walk around the Martian landscape of the magnificent Kings Canyon.

The next day we were treated to some fantastic commentary over our 12 hours and 1200km of driving. Did you know Australia has the largest population of wild Camels - over 750 000? What can I say? Kata Tjuta was Majestic and sipping champagne whilst watching the changing colours of Uluru as the sun set was an experience that will stay with me forever (or at least until the Alzheimers kicks in!)