As my Australia trip was approaching, I messaged my friends here to get recommendations on whether or not to go to the Great Barrier Reef. I also posted in my favorite Facebook group: Girls Love Travel. The consensus was yes, definitely go. I knew deep down that would be the answer but I needed a final nudge to book flights and accommodation because it is a pricey journey when booked last minute.

I’m currently writing this post on a beautiful back patio overlooking the Port of Airlie to my left with hillsides covered in tropical vegetation all around. There are gently chirping birds and then terribly annoying cockatoos. I hear, see and feel the gentle ocean breeze. I wish I had a guidebook to tell me about all the trees and bushes I see but I am content simply knowing they are beautiful.

There is also a bottle of Australian beer open next to me so that helps it all, too.