So here I am sitting on the plane back from Cairns and I can't even begin to explain to you how great this weekend was. You probably won't even believe any of the things I am about to say.
First: We finally arrive in Cairns after a long day of anticipation. Our hostel... Well it was interesting. Though it was a room filled with great friends started off this amazing weekend.
Second: We awake at 6:15 to get ready for our 7 o'clock shuttle to the Mariana. We get our boarding passes and finally get onto the boat that was going to take us to the GREAT BARRIER REEF! And no I am not joking. It was a gorgeous hot day in Cairns. After a short briefing session about the activities for the day, we made our way outside to the front of the boat where we proceeded to lay, tan, and actually grasp the fact we were on our way to one of the most famous parts of Australia. We arrive at our first reef where we were able to scuba dive. So excited after learning all the important facts, I finally got into my wetsuit and got attached to my oxygen tank. First group to start off the day, Gia, Anthony, Brittany and I hop into the water for some breathing exercises. After smoothly completing these exercises, we made our way deeper into the water with our instructor. After about 5-7 feet, I started to panic and had to be brought to the surface. Scuba diving is a lot harder than it seems. The one thing I realized though is that it's actually not natural to breathe underwater (would you have ever known?). After feeling super disappointed in myself I was able to jump back in to snorkel for the rest of the day. I rented an underwater camera so I was able to capture all the beautiful marine life. Not only did I see a barracuda right in front of my face. I saw a shark. Yes a shark. I can't even explain how sick it was to be able to see all of this marine life.
Third: After completing a great day of snorkeling in the ocean, we headed back to the hostel to nap and get ready for our first night out. We went to this bar called the Woolshed. I had one of the best nights at this bar. We were dancing on the tables all night. We made some Australian friends as well.
Fourth: The Skydive. Yes, me and girl with the fear of heights went skydiving over the Great Barrier Reef!!! After almost missing the bus to mission beach (where my skydive took place), reality set in that I was going to be jumping out of a plane that was 14,000 feet in the air. My instructor was a lanky man named Dave who reminded me of The cartoon Doug. Strapped in and ready to go we made our way to the plane. This little plane flew us all the way up over the clouds. I started to actually shake. this was actually happening. The scariest part of the whole experience was watching everyone go before you. All you heard was a big WHOOOSH and they were gone. I put my feet over the edge. Head back. Hands on my harness. In banana position. And the next thing I know I was free falling. One of the craziest yet most amazing experiences of my life. Not only did I get to snorkel in the reefs, I was able to see them from above. Landing was awesome because we landed right on the beach in front of the water. Holy crap was that the best day of my entire life.
Fifth: We went to Gilligan's for our last night out. Everyone raves about this place and let me tell you I now understand why. It was Halloween themed... And sadly we didn't know until we entered the line to go in. Despite not being dressed in costume, we had an amazing night. We stayed out until 4 am. I don't think I've ever actually stayed at a club/ bar for that long. We made friends with a bachelor party and the funniest part about it was the bachelor was already passed out at 11 o'clock. Funny Australians.
Sixth: We had a relaxing day in Cairns. We sat outside at the pool in town which was gorgeous. Best part about this day was awkwardly seeing the bachelor party from the night prior. Oh and yeah to top it off... They were also at the airport with us... Hahahaha is all I have to say. After a great weekend full of laughs and thrills, we are finally headed home to the Gold Coast!
Thank you Cairns for a weekend I will never be able to forget.
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