Crystelle during her internship in Sydney

New Year’s Eve in Sydney

Yesterday afternoon we headed to Strictland Park, above Milk Beach, with a big group from the house. From there, you get an amazing view of the Harbour Bridge, Opera House, skyline, and harbour. Compared to other events in the city, it wasn’t even that expensive: $35. You did have to bring your own food and drinks for the entire night and sit on a blanket on the grass, but that’s exactly what made it so cozy.

The fireworks were absolutely spectacular! I tried to film it, but it didn’t even come close to showing how beautiful it really was. Honestly, I thought the pink/purple sunset over the harbour, with all the lights and boats, was the best part. The Harbour Bridge was also lit up especially for the occasion. It’s already the perfect postcard of this city, but that night it looked extra stunning.

Everything went so fast

And there I was, already at the end of the year. Everything went by so quickly. Even though I’m staying longer, I’m sure I’ll say the exact same thing when it’s time to go home.

I even said to one of my friends yesterday that it’s kind of a shame I’m only 21 and have already experienced the best NYE of my life! It’s definitely going to be hard to top this one.

Cairns

That’s not just because the fireworks over Sydney were so incredible – which I’d only seen on TV before – but also because on the very first day of the new year, I hopped on a plane to Cairns. So that’s where I’m writing this from now – at the Giligans Hostel. I didn’t know what hit me when I walked in! The whole place is like a giant pub/club, where you just happen to sleep as well. I’m in a room with eight girls, so it was fun right from the start.

I just walked into town for a bite to eat at a terrace by the boulevard. I don’t have any plans for tomorrow, but the day after I’ll be snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef, the next day I’ll be visiting the rainforest, the day after that I’ll be skydiving – and then it’s off to the next stop: Mission Beach.