tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29547981347781391272024-03-12T19:03:32.687-07:00Sara MüllerSara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comBlogger39125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-68983440151631452592018-08-15T23:44:00.006-07:002018-08-16T06:50:04.630-07:00Cambodia - Where to Go, What to Do<div class="MsoNoSpacing">
<span lang="EN-AU"><b>The reality </b><o:p></o:p></span><br />
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I had a concise time in Cambodia but was enough presence the painful history. Until nowadays, Cambodians don’t feel comfortable to talk about their past for fear from the government which still remains. Until 1979 (Khmer Rouge) the population had their property and homes confiscated, they were relocated to forced labor camps, watched family members die of exhaustion and murder, children were abandoned, education, healthcare, and economy stopped. Teachers, doctors, "thinkers person" and all “elite” were tortured and executed, counted as 2 million people murdered. The consequence is a poverty country in which the income is less than U$3 per day.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angkor Wat</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thumb painted from 1 week to show who has voted from the Country</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>The Dream – Big Empire</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">It is ironic to think that Angkor was the capital city of the Khmer Empire, a megacity supporting at least 0,1% of the global population during 1010-1220. This makes it the largest urban agglomeration in recorded history before the Industrial Revolution, and its buildings use far more stone than all of the Egyptian structures combined. There are more than a thousand temples, and the major temples are around 1,000km2. Angkor Wat which means “city of temples” is the most massive religious monument ever built in the world. It is the UNESCO World Heritage site and considering the 7th Wonder of the World. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angkor Wat </td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">The highlight of this short trip it was:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Ta Prohm – Nature strength over the man labor</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Apart from the main temple, I was wondered to see the force of nature over the human building. Ta Prohm is famous for the large vines that strangle the ruins which makes that place magic and almost unreal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta Phrom - Siem Riep</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ta Phrom - Siem Riep</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Old Market – Where the fishes meet the clothe</b>s<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">I have been to many markets in my life, however, I have never seen staff sell everywhere from the top to the floor. What fishes were jumping into clothes stores is just one example. Another one is the different types of cheap protein selling everywhere (bugs and insects). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Óld Market, where the fishes meet the clothes</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Amok - Traditional Fish Soup</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Tonle Sap Lake<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">This place reminds me of Amazon, in Brazil which thousands of families were living on the floating houses which move everywhere. They make their lives fishing. I had a remarkable sunset view of this lake.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tonle Sap Lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tonle Sap Lake - Crocodile Farm</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>A driver to recommend – Mr Lucky</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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To go from one temple to another, the best is to go with a taxi driver. We had a fantastic experience with Mr. Heng (Lucky), which make the most of our short period. His website you can book in advance. </div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">http://www.angkordailydriver.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">An excellent option to stay in Siem Reap: </span><a href="http://www.tankangangkorhotel.com/" target="_blank">Tan Kang</a></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">A clean place with excellent air-conditioning, breakfast, swimming pool and reasonable price. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Convenient location, close to the pub street, Night Market and Old Market.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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If only I had more time to visit the great country but it was enough to be in contact with the beautiful people I found there and definitely, I will go back and more things to be written here.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Angkor Wat</td></tr>
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Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-39429966036894033932018-08-15T16:26:00.002-07:002018-08-16T06:56:59.823-07:00Vietnam - Where to Go, What to Do<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ninh Binh - Kong Skull Island - View Point</td></tr>
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This post is dedicated to who made this trip extraordinary and unforgettable experience in Vietnam: Katie and Kathie (Di La Va).<br />
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The desire to visit Vietnam came after telling my Vietnamese friend that I was going to Thailand and she provoked me saying that I should go to Vietnam instead and I will not regret it. What a stunning landscape, history, relaxing and friendly people I met, from the urban city like Hanoi and Ho Chi Min to rural countrysides like Ninh Bin and Sapa. Many cultures influenced these people such as the native Dong Son, China, India, and French colonialism. </div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">My itinerary was 12 days from Hanoi, Sapa, Halong Bay, Ninh Binh, Hoi An and Ho Chi Minh. Below, I will describe the main cities and some tips, starting with Sapa. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Sapa</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span> <span lang="EN-AU">Close to the Chinese border, it is known for its hill tribes and trekking. The hill tribe make up the majority of trekking guides in Sapa, showing you their backyard. The trek through the vibrantly green rice terraces cascade down rugged mountains in Sapa is unforgettable and spectacular. And very surprising is to see young lady guide carrying her baby with pure plastic flipflops all the way down and up while I was struggling with my boots. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sapa - Ta Van - Rice Fields</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sapa - Ta Van - Rice Fields</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The girl and her pet. Poor pet or a poor girl?</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Homestay in Sapa, messing up the kitchen</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild strawberries in Sapa, the real one, without genetic modifications</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Indigo to color the clothes... and my hand</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Tips: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">-Take an overnight bus to Sapa and organize the trekking with the guides in Sapa.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">-Stay in a homestay where you can experience a bit of their life, cooking and knowing a bit more about them.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Hanoi</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hanoi</td></tr>
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Hanoi was the city where I could have a fantastic introduction to Vietnamese culture in this places my local friend recommended me:<br />
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<span lang="EN-AU">Dong Xuan Market: local market. It was the cheapest place to buy everything in Vietnam, in the Old Quarter. Not many tourists are found there indeed.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Buncha: Buncha is a rice noodle with grilled pork, and this place sells it in Old Quarter<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">The address: 43 Hang Buom<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span> <span lang="EN-AU">Lotus Water Puppet Show: I was amazed by the music and show and an excellent opportunity to learn about their instruments, music, and culture. It takes place over a waist-deep pool of water telling the history of Vietnam, planting rice, fishing and village folklore. The secret of how puppeteers control the puppets from beneath the water has been closely guarded for centuries. The skills include passing objects from puppet to puppet. But for me, the best part was the music and musicians. Voice, traditional instruments were a must see.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lotus Water Puppet Show</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Old Quarter - Hanoi<br />
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<span style="font-size: small; text-align: start;">Hoan Kiem Lake which means “Lake of the Returned Sword” is a graceful, red-painted wooden bridge which leads to Son Temple in the middle of the lake.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoan Kiem Lake - Turtle Tower - Old Quarter - Hanoi</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><a href="http://quananngon.com.vn/" target="_blank">Quan An Ngon</a>: the authentic Vietnamese street cuisine cooked at stalls in the garden courtyard, offering dishes from South, Central, and North of Vietnam. The place itself is worth a visit, located in a beautiful garden. It was the best restaurant experience I have been in the last years. One more thanks to the Kathy which introduced me to this a genuine place.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Quan An Ngon</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Old Quarter offers cheap shopping, plenty of backpacks, and delicious food to try.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To stay: definitely in the Old Quarter.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">One cozy, fun and affordable suggestion which I stayed is Cocooninn Hostel www.cocooninn.com<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Tips: you must try in Hanoi the egg coffee where egg yolk and condensed milk are whipped together to make a sweet and airy head.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The entrance of the best egg coffee with the best view from Old Quarter and the Lake</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Egg Coffee</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span> <span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span> <span lang="EN-AU">Temple of Literature is a 1000-year-old temple to education which was almost destroyed by war in the 20th Century. What I like most was the number of old and beautiful bonsais which reminded my daddy.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Temple of Literature - Hanoi</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum: The first president of the Democratic Republic of Vietnam lies embalmed there, “Uncle Ho”. Visitors are allowed to pay their respect under strict rules: no photography, no shorts, and silence.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bibh Minh Jazz Club</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><a href="http://minhjazzvietnam.com/" target="_blank">Binh Minh Jazz Club</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Mr. Minh, the owner, an excellent saxophonist, give a very sophisticated show every night. I loved listening very much and seeing the improvisation and connection the band has between them, and I felt delighted to realize that a musician is running a bar for ages to foreign listeners. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Crossing the street: seriously, this is part of the tourism in Vietnam. No traffic signal is respected. The only rule I could learn is to make eye contact with the drivers and go confident crossing in the middle of thousands of motorbikes and cars. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Halong Bay</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Halong Bay means “where the dragon descends to the sea” is one of the world heritage sites. This region is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Vietnam. There are many boats which explore the giant emerald green pond. I would recommend staying overnight, and you can see the sunset and sunrise.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">These companies do tours in Halong Bay: <a href="http://www.oasisbaypartycruises.com/" target="_blank">Oasis Bay</a> and <a href="http://www.halongpartycruises.com/" target="_blank">Halong Party Cruises</a>.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halong Bay - Sunset</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halong Bay</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Halong Bay - Canoying</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freedom Island - Halong Bay</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Ninh Binh</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rice Field - Ninh Bin</td></tr>
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Ninh Binh is also known as the Ha Long Bay on land instead of water. As of Halong Bay, there are hundreds of limestone monoliths with green rice field on the bottom with rivers flowing through them and caves. This place is getting more famous because the latest movie King Kong filmed there. It is an excellent opportunity to see the rural way of living in Vietnam.<br />
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<span lang="EN-AU">Tam Coc is the most populous site in Ninh Binh where you can see mountains, rivers, caves, rice fields. The boat peddler takes you through the river. The peddlers have learned to peddle with their feet to avoid getting injured.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Tips: this there are so many tourists, and they pester tourists by selling food and drinks along the river.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Trang An: “The Green Sea” is a complex of mountains and caves to which you can only get to by water.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Van Long Nature Reserve: same as Tam Coc or Trang An but less touristic.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Dragon Mountain Viewpoint/Hang Mua Peak: it was the best hike ever in Vietnam. It is only 500 </span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">stair climb but entirely worth with a panoramic 360-degree view of the countryside.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kong Skull Island - View Point - Ninh Binh</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To stay: <a href="http://www.ninhbinhvalleyhomestay.com/en" target="_blank">Ninhbinhvalley homestay</a>. If you love nature, this place will be perfect. One large lake in the middle of milestones and a bungalow house where you can wake up with the fantastic view of the song of nature. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ninh Binh Valley Homestay</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ninh Binh Valley - Homestay - What a view for a toilet</td></tr>
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<b>Hoi An</b></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoi An - Night Market</td></tr>
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Hoi An was served as a major port for Japanese, Chinese, Indian and Dutch traders up until the 17th century. With the narrow brick streets, tailor shops and electric lights at night was made into a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of cheap tailor shops to order clothes, bags, shoes, and boots. I felt so happy to have my first jackboot close to the knees. There are no boots which fit my calf in this world, so, it needs to be customized. And everything ready in 1 day.<br />
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<a href="http://baymaucooking.com/" target="_blank">Eco Cooking Tour</a>: it is an excellent tour where you can ride on the Thu Bon River through the Coconut Forest, which is an ecological zone and then have some cooking lessons.<br />
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vI24JNyRl48/W3UiWs_1n6I/AAAAAAAANvU/YvEWVkCKpKoNTziHLWmoZcoDb-eszLBmwCLcBGAs/s1600/20170521_120413.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vI24JNyRl48/W3UiWs_1n6I/AAAAAAAANvU/YvEWVkCKpKoNTziHLWmoZcoDb-eszLBmwCLcBGAs/s320/20170521_120413.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span> <span lang="EN-AU">Cloth Shop: Mr. Xê – 71 Nguyen Thai Hoc St<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Shoe Shop: 351 Nguyen Duy Hieu St<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Email: thuhuong5687@gmail.com</span></div>
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Avana: if you like unique clothes, this is a store from an Italian woman who has been living there for ages and had an incredible creativity (57 Le Loi). </div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To stay: <a href="http://www.thanhbinhhotel.com.vn/" target="_blank">Thanh Binh II – Serene Hotel</a> </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hoi An</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Ho Chi Minh City</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ho Chi Minh Tunnels</td></tr>
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-Cuchi tunnels are a massive network of underground tunnels that once served as a command post for Vietnamese forces including hospitals, entertainment facilities, kitchen, weapons factories, etc. It is more than 200km, 9 meters under the soil and it is amused to see the creativity of them building it. There are three levels underground; however, visitors can have a small experience until the second level down. The third one which is a scape of the river is not allowed.<br />
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<span lang="EN-AU">Tip: try to cross the tunnel is you can.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">If you are into shooting, you can try shooting a Kalashnikov or an AK 47 for a small fee.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Ben Thanh Market Saigon: a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Thai Binh Market: the second cheapest place to buy bags, shoes, clothes, souvenirs, etc.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To eat:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">-Corner Restaurant – Buivien: a cozy and pleasant place to be and view the atmosphere of the city. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Corner Restaurant - Ho Chi Minh City</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To stay: <a href="http://www.ailengardenhotel.com/" target="_blank">Ailen Garden Hotel</a> (2 stars Hotel close to Vien Street which is the center of backpackers´ tourism. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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If you are looking for a different place to visit, you should not miss Vietnam. From North to South, beautiful sceneries to be seeing and experiences to be lived. Have a safe trip and write your tips. </div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-33817460800279734242018-08-12T03:27:00.002-07:002018-09-09T05:45:17.147-07:00Thailand - Where to Go, What to Do<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I dedicated this post to my close friend who traveled all the way from Brazil to explore this country with me and made this trip very special, Gisele Paiva.</div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To start with before you go to Thailand, it is crucial to know that:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">-You cannot insult the Thai royal family; otherwise, you may go to the prison.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">-You must cover yourself to see the temples, which means shoulders and long skirts, no pants!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">-If you have any food intoxication, treat yourself over there as they know their medicines to cure it. Don´t come back sick to your country! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Bangkok</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Palace - Wat Pharakareo - Bangkok</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">One of the craziest cities I have been, mainly the small street Khao San Road, full of shows, backpackers, and cheap accommodation. Capital of Thailand, Bangkok is the largest and most developed city surrounded by grand palaces, temples, weird museums and cheap protein knowing as bugs and insects. Some places to visit in Bangkok include:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Wat Pho: it is famous for its reclining Buddha measuring 46 meters long and 15 meters high.</div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">The Grand Palace: the most glorified and world-renowned landmark in the capital.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Grand Palace - Wat Phrakareo - Bangkok</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: left;">Wat Arun: the temple is covered from top to bottom with tiny pieces of colorful glass and Chinese porcelain.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wat Arun - Bangkok</td></tr>
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Sky Bar: the tallest building in Thailand is a fancy place for a drink and a viewpoint of the Bangkok.</div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Ayutthaya: it can be done one day trip from Bangkok, the World Heritage protected ruins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">It is famous for the iconic Buddha head entwined within the roots of a banyan tree at War Maharat.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ayutthaya</td></tr>
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One option of 3 stars Hotel is <a href="https://dangdermpark.dangderm.com/" target="_blank">Dang Derm Hotel</a> on the heart of Khao San Road, where everything happens. The swimming pool, on the top of the hotel, is delightful.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Erawan National Park - Natural Spa Treatment</b></td></tr>
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<b>Erawan Falls – close to Bangkok:</b><br />
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Located in Kanchanaburi, it is five hours away from Bangkok, and it is a complex of waterfalls with seven levels with an incredibly blue and emerald colored waters. It is a place for local people as you don’t see too many tourists. The particular waterfall in my opinion was the first one on the button with fishes eating your dead skin and doing a free spa treatment; I must agree that it was the gratifying moment to feed them.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erawan Falls</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Erawan Falls</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Tip: if you make one day trip with any company you book on Khao San Road, chose for going straight as the waterfall is quite big and you need proper time to explore it. There are other packages including this waterfall plus additional places, but then you will not see properly. Don´t forget that the trip is already 5 hours from Bangkok. However, if you are really into waterfalls, the best idea is to book a hotel close to it.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Khao San Road - Food options</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Krabi – Railay Bay</b><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phranang Cave Beach - Krabi - Railay - Thailand</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Railay Bay is a peninsula with dense jungle, cliffs for climbing, and a relaxed spot to be. Railay Bay is not a party destination but a place to relax and have amazing experiences. I had a few memorable highlights from this bay starting from when I arrived there. We saw many people full of mud from the bottom to the top, and I was wondering which party or tribe they were coming from. When we were exploring the island, we could see a steep hill with some shoes on the floor and from that moment I decided that it was a place to go.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">How to arrive in Railay Bay: fly to Krabi, get a shuttle bus from the airport to Ao Nang (45 min) go to Ao Nang by bus and get a long tail boat to Railay (15 min). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phranang Cave Beach - Long Tail Boat - Railay - Krabi</td></tr>
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Phranang Cave Beach: the east side of the Railay Bay is surrounded by limestone cliffs, stalactites, and stalagmites where many people come mainly for that, as it is one of the top places for rock climbing in Thailand which fits beginners and advances. You can also walk and swim around this cave which makes an exceptional place to be. Also, the sunset was out of this world. You really must stay there to have the full experience of this place. A small cave is also very famous there, Princess Cave, which an extensive collection of carved wooden phallic symbols, close to 100 phalluses.<br />
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<span lang="EN-AU">Railay Viewpoint: for the best view in Railay, a hike up is a must. The hike itself isn´t particularly long in the distance but is difficult where requires scaling and incredibly cliff using nothing but your strength and your bare feet digging the mud; otherwise, your shoes will be stuck there. I confess that it was terrifying and exhausting, manly if you look down.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beginning of the hiking for the Secret Lagoon. After that, I was too busy to think of any picture</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Secret lagoon: If you made the hike to the viewpoint and feel like getting more from it, follow the mud to the “Secret Lagoon”. The hill down into the lagoon can test your limits, especially if it has rained recently and the trail was full of mud, which was my case.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Railay Bay - Secret Lagon - Krabi, arriving in the late afternoon. </td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">I confess I was shaking, not sure if for the exhaustion, fear or excitement to reach the lagoon and to ask everybody which were coming back from there if there was still someone. I didn´t want to be 100% alone in this hiking, even if I was apparently alone. Finally, I saw the lagoon, and there were still three people! All sides enclose the pool except for a wide opening at the top. As I went in the late afternoon, my view was the moon in the middle of the lagoon, feel like a small grain of sand in the button of a cup surrounded by night insect’s noises like cricket and birds around the caves. The best period to go is in the high tide when the ocean fills the lagoon deep enough, which was my case. Yes, I put my tongue to check if it was salty to guarantee that was coming from the ocean. After this personal conquest, I made my way back alone but not alone. My goal is with the other 3 and arrives while I still could see something and not hurt myself because it could be a big deal, but my desire was stronger than my sense of judgment about conditions.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The lagoon and the moon on the top</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poda Island - Long Tail Boat - Krabi<br />
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<span lang="EN-AU">Day trip: there are some packages to see the islands around from Railay Beach: Chicken Island, Poda Island, Tupi Island, etc.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Tips: Watch out your things. Monkeys are everywhere, and I saw an organized attack on tourists where they came together along the beach and stole in the same time bags, wallets, food, a bottle of soft drinks and cigarettes. After that, they run on the top of the trees and opening every pocket to check if there was any food, while coins, cards, cash and the mobile phone, all of them fell all over the place.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">To stay: Avatar Railay Resort, a friendly, and affordable 3 Stars Hotel on the west side of the Island, with the mangrove view.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">http://www.avatarrailay.com/</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Maya Bay - The Beach - Phi Phi Island</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><b>Phuket – Phi Phi Island</b></span> <span lang="EN-AU">The deadly 2004 tsunami destroyed the island, and the entire coast was devastated. They rebuilt it and now is even more touristic than before. The main reason for people visiting Phuket is Phi Phi Island where the main attraction is Maya Bay, famous by the movie The Beach, with clear crystal water, white sand powder and lush tropical vegetation. The other strong reason is the night parties where you see a lot of shows with fire around the beach. I need to assume that it wasn´t my favorite place comparing with others I have been on the same trip, Railay Bay, for example, my favorite beach. However, I was surprised by the marvelous sunset from the viewpoint, and for this reason, I didn´t regret.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Phi Phi View Point - Phuket</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Phi Phi View Point: the most stunning sunset in Thailand you can reach the top in 20 minutes and wait for the show. This mountain was the place where many animals run all the way up to save from the Tsunami, and we can see the pictures before and after this fatal disaster on the top. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Islands around: there are other islands to see, apart from Maya Bay, such as Bamboo Island, Mosquito Island, Koh Phi Phi Leh, for example, where they sell a day trip package. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Phuket City/Patong Beach: I don’t have anything exited to tell about the city. The only thing is that I was impressed by the parasailing activity at Patong Beach, the main beach at Phuket. However, a couple of weeks after my trip there was news that an Australian fell to death parasailing in Phuket. <span style="background: yellow; mso-highlight: yellow;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Parasailing - Phuket</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Chiang Mai<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">As Chiang Mai sits at a higher altitude, the temperature was less hot than other cities, but it still a boiling city. However, if you visit the highest peak which we did, it was freezing! A laid-back town, Chiang Mai is the most affordable place I have been on this trip to Thailand, from accommodation, Thai massages, food, and market in general. Furthermore, if you want to have teeth treatment, it is also a place to go. The city is quite small, and with a bicycle or a motorbike, you can smoothly go around.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><a href="https://chiangmaimountainsanctuary.com/" target="_blank">Chiangmai mountain sanctuary – Elephant Park</a> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DTQUuJGIahw/W3AM1H_8y8I/AAAAAAAANog/gt-m9GFgCUkHAG4KfS8Oc1wBWDgRXVbHgCLcBGAs/s1600/18699895_10155004099554760_6046069413852935090_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="960" data-original-width="960" height="320" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DTQUuJGIahw/W3AM1H_8y8I/AAAAAAAANog/gt-m9GFgCUkHAG4KfS8Oc1wBWDgRXVbHgCLcBGAs/s320/18699895_10155004099554760_6046069413852935090_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-AU">The way they sell it is a sanctuary where you can feed, observe, bath and walk with elephants. I am not here to judge if this is an indeed “sanctuary” of elephants or not. I intended to go to a place where I believe they didn´t mistreat them as a circus. However, this experience made me question a lot about this tourist activity in Thailand where animal cruelty is prevalent but well-hiden.. Elephants are huge animals, brilliant and hard to control them. If they want to break trees, cars, motorbikes or even kill people they do it. Also, mahouts “need to control them” not to hit tourists, to behave themselves and probably the way to “teach” elephants are not the nicer we think. I heard that if an elephant kills or hit a person, which happens quite often, they sell to “another” sanctuary to “retreat” the elephant. But they also say that a bad elephant will always be a bad one, and they cannot keep it as they are not good enough for the “sanctuary”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Chiang Rai - White Temple - Wat Rong Khun </td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Chiang Rai White Temple (Wat Rong Khun): A day tour from Chiang May, the temple is a contemporary, unconventional, privately-owned art exhibit in the style of a Buddhist temple in Chiang Rai Province. The main temple is reached by crossing a bridge over a small lake with hundreds of outreaching hands that symbolize unrestrained desire. After crossing the bridge is the “gate of heaven”. It is a shocked place to be actually. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Gold Triangle Day Tour: it is not worth it. The trip stops at hot springs but nothing that you can enjoy it and continue to the border between Thailand and Burma. They took us to a market which was supposed to be cheaper in Burma as there is no tax charge, but no difference in the price and I ended up buying nothing so far. The only thing that was cheap was pear but when the van stopped before going to Burma.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Long Neck Hill Tribe Village (Karen Tribe): they are world famous for their women, who wear golden rings around their necks, from the time they are 5 to their 21st birthday, each year one ring is added to their collection. They take them off only once a year for 3-4 yours as their necks could break if the rings weren´t worn for longer than that. The tradition started to protect the tribe from the tiger attack as the neck is the first part of the body to be attacked. Nowadays, according to them, the longer the neck, the more beautiful the woman who wears them is. It looks like a human zoo where you can take pictures of women dressed in colorful outfits with a neck so long which looks like a giraffe. They are not allowed to leave their villages. If they want to stay in Thailand, they must remain in the land they were given. They are Burmese refugees who are not recognized as a citizen by the Thai government, and they are denied education, healthcare, geographically confined and often exploited for the tourism economy. Poor ladies who maintain these rings for money and surviving from humans who want to take selfies of the human zoo. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Chiang Mai Night Market: the best place to buy stuff in Thailand from the places I have been, definitely, if you want to buy anything, better here than Ko Phi Phi, for example. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Night Market in Chiang Mai - What a leg!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Doi Inthanon - Doiangkha - Agkha Nature Trail</td></tr>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Doi Inthanon National Park: It is famous for its number of waterfalls, rice fields, viewpoints and cold weather. It is the highest place in Thailand, especially the Summit, the highest Point in Thailand with a short walk from the parking in the middle of the humid forest which reminded me amazingly Tasmania.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "calibri" , sans-serif; font-size: 11pt;">The Twin Royal Pagodas of Phra Mahathat Naphamethanidon: the two pagodas were built to commemorate the King and Queen´s 60th birthdays. When we went there it was raining, so, the fog made a place a mystical and beautiful garden</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naphamethanidon</td></tr>
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And to finalize it, one more picture with cheap protein. From north to south, bugs are everywhere, it means that you should try it because, trust me, it is not too bad.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Warms, bugs, cockroaches, scorpions and so on</td></tr>
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Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-80845000901855990382018-06-01T00:21:00.002-07:002018-08-12T01:36:50.533-07:00Philippines itinerary, prices, accommodation and what to doThis post is some tips for accommodation, places to go, reference of cost from a personal experience to the Philippines with the objective of helping people who like planning and traveling by themselves.<br />
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Before start with the tips, a big thanks to Rosana Palla who makes this trip unforgettable, proposing the trip, planning and being an amazing company, Luke Faulkner for his awesome hospitality, the unforgettable Gaspar family from Apo Island and all Philippines who showed their main values: fraternity, friendship, justice, and happiness all the time.<br />
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<b>I would say that the Oscar from the Philippines goes:</b><br />
1. Best waterfall: Kawasan (Moalboal)<br />
2. Best sunset at the beach: Las Cabanas (El Nido)<br />
3. Most strange but delicious food in the Philippines: Balut<br />
4. Best snorkeling from all my life: Siete Pecados (Coron)<br />
5. Best Island: I owe you one. I have never seen a place with so many beautiful Island/beaches in life. Seriously, one more beautiful than other<br />
6. Big and friendly turtles: Apo Island<br />
7. Coolest beach: Cloud 9 (Siargao)<br />
8. Best nuts: pili. You must try it! I simply loved it very much.<br />
9. Best encounter: whale shark in Oslob<br />
10: Best airport: Siargao<br />
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<b>Now, let’s go to the details. The itinerary summary we made in 17 days, by the order were: </b><br />
1. Cebu (big city)<br />
2. Moalboal (close to Kawasan Waterfalls and turtles/tune shoal) - 2 days<br />
3. Oslob (Whale Shark encounter) - 1 day<br />
4. Dauin (Apo Island - big sea turtle encounter) - 1 day<br />
5. Siargao (caves, surfing, snorkeling, ecotourism, etc) - 4 days<br />
6. Coron: islands trip, snorkeling, rock formation, hot spring water - 2 days<br />
7. El Nido: snorkeling, hopping island - 4 days<br />
8. Manila: destination to Sydney<br />
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<b>General tips:</b><br />
-1AUD = 38PHP (pesos)<br />
-The best month for traveling in the Philippines is in April.<br />
- Bring your snorkel mask. Many places are not included, and every time should be paid PHP150.<br />
-Buy a waterproof bag (20liters - PHP350)<br />
-Get water shoes over there, mainly for El Nido or Coron. There are a lot of rock formations and they rent for PHP100, however, you can buy for PHP300 the simple one.<br />
-Buy a SIM card (don't buy in the airport but in the city = PHP40, 2GB internet for two weeks = PHP100<br />
-Bring cash, it is not easy to find an ATM<br />
-The best exchange rate was in Siargao - 38.5pesos = 1AUD<br />
- Rent a motorbike to see more and be free.<br />
-It is worth to download the map because the internet is horrible in general.<br />
-Use Uber or Taximeter if you get a Taxi. Always anticipated negotiation is expensive.<br />
-You can find accommodation for less than PHP1000 for the double room with a toilet.<br />
-Airline companies: Cebu Pacific, Scoot, Qantas, Airasia, Air-swift<br />
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Now, breaking down by place, you can see prices for transport, accommodation as a reference and also some local contacts that can help you.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kawasan Waterfall</td></tr>
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<b>From Cebu to Moalboal:</b><br />
-PHP1800 taxi but using taximeter is cheaper than that.<br />
-Moalboal is very close to the Kawasan Falls - 30 min by tuk-tuk (PHP150) or you can rent a motorbike.<br />
-Beautiful sunset at the beach. Don’t lose it!<br />
-Local contact: Jacquie - His Facebook is Rolly Gwaps. He works in on of the restaurants and organized everything for us on the island.<br />
-Kawasan Falls is worth to spend a full day if you like waterfalls. It is very crystal-clear water and full of jumps. They offer canoeing which they show where are the best places to jump and do some water activity. Arrive before 8am to avoid many tourists.<br />
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-Fish Island in Moalboal: it is not worth (wait... when I say it is not worth means comparing with all the places we have been in the Philippines). It's a standard island close to the main beach - Moalboal Beach, and we must pay the island fee and the boat will take it around the main Island where you are probably staying. The best is to pay a native to help you find the turtles, tune shoal in front of the Moalboal Beach.<br />
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<b>From Moabal to Oslob:</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sulimao Island</td></tr>
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-Taxi from Moalboal to Oslob after long negotiation = PHP1400. Or the local bus for 65 per person.<br />
-Swim with whale sharks for 30 min. It opens at 5 am for registration, and 6 am for whale watching. It costs 1000 for the project.<br />
-We stayed in Sharkly Hostel, very close to the project which helped us to be the first group. I strongly recommended it.<br />
-Sumilao Island (PHP2000 per boat negotiated in front of the beach - boat with 11 people). Sumilao is a piece of white sand in the middle of the turquoise water. It is not a place for snorkeling, but it is a beautiful island.<br />
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<b>Oslob to Apo Island (Dauin City):</b><br />
-Boat to Dumaguete = PHP60, after that a local bus (Easy Rider Company = PHP20 until bus station. Local bus to Apo island = PHP50.<br />
-The boat costs PHP2500 for four people, and it is not negotiable. If you have more people, you can reduce the price. It was worth to go as it was the best place to see huge turtles in the Philippines.<br />
-Accommodation in Dauin: Contact a beautiful Garcia family on Facebook: Garcia Jeanz Baylon or Vandz Garcia or <a href="https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100004956247231" target="_blank">Welmar Garcia</a>. They helped us with everything, local events, food, transportation, etc.<br />
-We stayed in a double room for PHP600. It's close to the place to go to Apo Island, in front of the bus stop on the main road - National Highway, “Apo Island Stop”.<br />
-Tumagong Falls: it will be for the next trip.<br />
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<b>From Apo Island (Dauin) to Siargao:</b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tuk Tuk in Surigao</td></tr>
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It was quite tough. We need to go to Dumaguete, Cebu, Surigao e Siargao via the local bus, local ferry, aeroplane Company. There is a boat limitation, and it is better to organise in advanced. We spent two days to get there because of the departure' boat time.<br />
From Dauin to Dumaguete: via bus/tricycle<br />
From Dumaguete to Cebu: there is a boat, bus and aeroplane<br />
From Cebu to Siargao: there is a direct flight, but it was full as it is just once per day. We went to Surigao by flight, close to Siargao and then from there; we took a local ferry. Surigao to Siargao the ship is only 5 am to 11 am. If you need to buy the ferry boat from Surigao to Siargao, You can buy directly from the company for PHP50. The hotel will charge PHP200. Another option is going by night boat from Cebu to Siargao, but it is only 7 p.m.<br />
-If it is needed to stay in Surigao because of the time boat departure, there is an excellent hotel with a reasonable price: The Grande Suites Hotel (PHP1350 double room including breakfast, dinner and transfer from and to the airport or port). However, there is no much to do in this city, filthy and miserable city.<br />
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<b>Siargao:</b><br />
-It will be the new promising tourism attraction in the Philippines due to topography and geology: caves, mangroves, marine ecosystems, ecotourism, game fishing, etc.<br />
-It's better to stay at General Lune as most of the hostels, markets, stores and surfers are there. But other cities from this Island have their own tourism as well.<br />
-Siargao Airport in Dallas City to General Luna Suburb: local bus (tricycle) to share with local people PHP20 each. Ask for that! It is very close to the airport. If not, you can pay PHP200 for the private tricycle.<br />
-We stayed 4 days but wishing to stay longer and explore better all island.<br />
-Magpupungko pool in Pilar: walk on the left side of the beach to see the lagoons. Better to go in the low tide. PHP70 fee each.<br />
-Tayangban Cave in Pilar: PHP70 each. You cross the cave under the water for 20 min walking.<br />
-Pacifico Beach in San Isidro: It's a beautiful resort and you can use fresh water for showering in front of the beach/resort (it was the only shower I found in the Philippines). The food is fantastic with a beautiful view of the ocean. The highlight of this restaurant is the dessert, hot chocolate cake with homemade ice cream It was the best ice cream I ate in Philippine.<br />
All these three attractions can be done in 1 day: Magpupungko, Tayangban and Pacifico Beach.<br />
-Cloud 9: surfing destination - it is the top five breaks in the World. Stunning sunset and a beautiful beach.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sugba Lagoon in Del Carmen</td></tr>
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-Sugba Lagoon in Del Carmen, very green lagoon = 1600 boat for six people. Wait to achieve the big number of people, and it is worth as everybody is going there. Check to go in a high tide, if you can. Kayak/paddle for renting = PHP300. Very green lagoon to be explored.<br />
-Island hopping at General Luna: Naked Island + Daku Island + Guyam Island: go in front and rent a private boat straight with the locals - PHP1500 boat.<br />
-Sohoton Cave: we didn't go as it was a bit far.<br />
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<b>Siargao to Coron:</b><br />
- It needs to go to Cebu first. From Siargao city to the airport by van = PHP150 per person. From Cebu to Coron: by plane = PHP7500<br />
-Two Kids Accommodation in the downtown. Very clean and organised (Double room PHP800 after negotiation - expect for a PHP1000 double room)<br />
-Mount Tapyas: all city and Coron mountains can be seeing from the top of the hill, escalating only 800 steps. Go for sunset view.<br />
-Daily Island Tour: Rainy Day Company (09777181782). Try to get the company which you can see Siete Pecados and Twins Lagoons. One of them is called “ Coron super ultimate tour” which costs PHP1600 per person (this tour was the most completed package considering the most famous spots).<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Twin Lagoon</td></tr>
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-Siete Pecados+coral garden: This was the best snorkelling I have seen all my life. It is surrounded by corals in all levels from the top of the water to the deep bottom of the ocean. There are plenty of shoals from different fish sizes, colours and shapes. How deep you can go, more things to be seeing in the ocean. I feel like a little grain of sand in the big aquarium.<br />
-Barracuda Lake and Kayangan Lake: both are very similar, with rock formations, mostly freshwater and crystal clear turquoise fresh water, it can be seeing shrimps, fishes and shelves.<br />
-Skeleton wreck can be skipped as it is just a wreck under the ocean<br />
-Twin lagoon: it is composed by 2 lagoons separated by stones. Beautiful blue and green water.<br />
-Maquinit Hot Spring: it's one of the few hot salt springs water in the world as most of them are with fresh water. You can clean all your body just staying there.<br />
-Bali Beach: close beach from Coron. One day trip covers this spot for eating. The view from Coron Mountains is stunning. Fee entry = PHP50.<br />
-Cabo Beach: second close beach from Coron.<br />
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<b>Coron to El Nido </b><br />
PHP1750 by ferry. Timetable 8 am or 12 pm from Monte Negro Company<br />
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<b>El Nido </b><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Las Cabanas - El Nido</td></tr>
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Once arrived in the port, walk to the town which takes 2 minutes. There is no need for the tricycle.<br />
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Famous boat trips PHP Best spots<br />
Boat Trip A: 1200 - 7th Commando Beach, Big Lagoon, Small Lagoon, Shimizu Island, Secret Lagoon (plus kayak rent = PHP400)<br />
Boat Trip C: 1400 - Secret Beach, Helicopter Island, Hidden Beach<br />
Boat trip D: Cadlao Lagoon, etc<br />
Best trips are A and C.<br />
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El Nido Tips:<br />
-Las Cabanas: best sunset I have ever seen! Must do it! 15 min from the city by motorbike. Zipline to Maremegmeg Island. PHP700<br />
-Every trip must pay an environmental fee = PHP200. Keep the number/paper and get a discount of 200 for the next trip. If not, you have to pay again.<br />
-If you need to rent snorkeling or water shoes, go to the diving stores which is PHP50 each. At the beach, it will cost PHP100.<br />
-The best deal is to rent a private boat at the beach with locals, negotiate with someone else and go earlier, for example, 7:30 am, to avoid tourists in the main touristic sites. It is packed and worth to see the paradise without so many boats and people to dispute the view with you.<br />
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4TdqVaqdsu0/W2_s6_pXHKI/AAAAAAAANlY/6cFfMfifoZcjxiugUXeGqpH2Bgav7RMYACLcBGAs/s1600/31081490_10155901150814760_1257165428942176256_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="540" data-original-width="960" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4TdqVaqdsu0/W2_s6_pXHKI/AAAAAAAANlY/6cFfMfifoZcjxiugUXeGqpH2Bgav7RMYACLcBGAs/s320/31081490_10155901150814760_1257165428942176256_n.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
-Rent a motorbike to go to the beaches around El Nido: PHP400/day.<br />
<br />
Northern Beaches:<br />
Duli Beach: the road was terrible and wasn't worth though.<br />
Nacpan Beach: this is the famous beach in El Nido with a lovely sunset. The water is crystal clear and turquoise.<br />
Duli Beach (close to the airport): the sand is a bit dark, but there are many trees for lying down and resting under the shade.<br />
Nagkalit-kalit Waterfall: Minimal, not too much water. What I don’t think is worth.<br />
Southern beach:<br />
<br />
-Taraw Cliff: we didn't make it, but there is a beautiful view from El Nido. PHP500.<br />
-Accommodation: Og Inn Hostel - in front of the beach = PHP1000 double room with toilet. Cheap, perfect location, breakfast included. Best deal ever.<br />
Local tourist guide: Bensor Pendon - he can negotiate cheaper than agencies as he talks directly with the boats - Bensor Pendon on Facebook - El Nido -09365527823<br />
Agency: in case you prefer an agency, Infinity Tour El Nido - 0955-5013164. Facebook: infinitytourelnido. They are honest and have a reasonable price comparing with others. The motorbike we rented with them with discount = PHP400.<br />
El Nido to Manila:<br />
-Lio Airport: very organised, free coffee and snacks. Ticket = PHP7000/person. Air-swift Airline or AirAsia Airline<br />
<br />
<b>To finalize the tips, if you are keen to have an unforgetful taste, below are some local food you must try it, especially the balut, which is a special delicacy very appreciated from the Philippines people. </b><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li>Balut (developing bird embryo) – food street</li>
<li>Fry peanuts with chilli – food street</li>
<li>Pili Nut – delicious nut from the volcano area in Philippines</li>
<li>Halo Halo – dessert</li>
<li>Ube Ice Cream – dessert</li>
<li>Taho – dessert</li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-6570721925850010982016-01-24T05:34:00.001-08:002016-01-24T05:34:12.513-08:00Figure 8 Pool can be a nightmare instead of a breathtaking view<div class="MsoNormal">
Today I´m
glad to be still alive by the mercy of God. With a couple of friends, our goal
is to find the Figure 8 Pool in the Royal National Park, the new spot that has
dramatic increase the visitation in the last month after social media
@figure8pools. What we were looking is something like <a href="http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au/things-to-do/Lookouts/figure-eight-pools" target="_blank">this</a> but what we´ve found
was a huge wave that we couldn´t run away from it winched us from the rocks. Four
people was rescued by helicopter (today in the <a href="http://www.smh.com.au/nsw/rescue-op-at-sydneys-figure-eight-pools-20160124-gmd23u.htm" target="_blank">News</a>) and the major hurts
themselves with cuts and lacerations.</div>
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<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6TxjO26JrV4/VqTSRyNsHxI/AAAAAAAAEd0/r7VKQKl6x1E/s1600/IMG_3052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6TxjO26JrV4/VqTSRyNsHxI/AAAAAAAAEd0/r7VKQKl6x1E/s640/IMG_3052.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">What I felt
more surprised is the number of Lifesavers whom were there after that accident,
offering help to everybody even if it was a small cut. They were also showing
us where the ambulance would be, a really impressive service for the Australian society
that embarrassed me for sure. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">My objective
with this post is to warn and alert people about the other side of Figure 8
Pool for everyone to make their own decision about what they want to see on
their own risk. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">To start
with who is writing this post.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comRoyal National Park, Audley Rd, Audley NSW 2232, Australia-34.0833333 151.08333330000005-59.605367799999996 109.77473930000005 -8.5612988 -167.60807269999998tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-52316387718618550072016-01-18T05:11:00.001-08:002016-01-18T05:25:41.045-08:00Chapada Diamantina – O que fazer na região<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Chapada Diamantina –
O que fazer na região<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Faz literalmente 2 anos que fui pra Chapada Diamantina e só
agora, motivado pela minha amiga Gisele que está indo pra lá, resolvi escrever
sobre este lugar mágico que está entre os meus Top 5. Top 5 por ser o
superlativo brasileiro e ter tudo em um só local: cachoeiras, deserto, cavernas,
cidades fantasma, cemitério bizantino, pedra preciosa, caatinga, serrado, mata
atlântica, frio, calor... e a cada hora uma nova descoberta na região. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
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Bem... começando pelo cartão postal da Chapada, a Cachoeira
da Fumaça.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Cachoeira da Fumaça,
Cachoeira do Riachinho (12km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pb3br9lLHT0/VpynsZy92cI/AAAAAAAAEXg/yGVmhYopzgM/s1600/1257.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pb3br9lLHT0/VpynsZy92cI/AAAAAAAAEXg/yGVmhYopzgM/s200/1257.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Vista da Cachoeira da Fumaça</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sem dúvidas o melhor mirante do local. O cânion de 400m de
altura tem a maior cachoeira do Brasil em queda livre. E essa é a razão da água
virar fumacinha que sobe em direção ao céu.
Depois da trilha, parada para banho na Cachoeira do Riachinho. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tips: Comer o pastel de jaca na volta da trilha no Vale do
Capão (parece palmito pois é feita com a casca da jaca e não a parte gosmenta) <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Capão <o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Se existe algum lugar zen é o Capão. A moda local é hippie (mas
não é barato, viu?) e a proposta é vender água de coco ou correntinha na rua
(brincadeira). Lá rola uns mega papo cabeça que não é conversa pra boi dormir,
mas não vou nem entrar em discussão aqui, pois não é a proposta. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tips:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TQCsuiemmKE/VpyoBLWe57I/AAAAAAAAEXs/6kGDJ6Rj9uI/s1600/IMG_6801.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-TQCsuiemmKE/VpyoBLWe57I/AAAAAAAAEXs/6kGDJ6Rj9uI/s320/IMG_6801.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pizzaria Integral Capão Grande</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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-Pizzaria Integral Capão Grande do Suíço. Restaurante mega
sustentável, tem apenas 2 opções de pizza sendo ambas integral e vegetariana: uma
doce e a outra salgada e não se fala mais nisso. O único açúcar por lá é o mel
e tudo é orgânico, até a parede haha. O lugar é super descolado: teto de palha,
mesa de pedra, garrafas de cerveja usados como tijolo, água no filtro São João,
trinco da porta de cano PVC, etc. Não tem talheres (pra quê, né gente?) e tem
um mel delicioso com pimenta pra colocar na pizza ao invés de catchup. Adooooorei.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Vale do Capão ao Vale
do Pati (14km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-St4YK8pqpDc/VpyoY0rdrgI/AAAAAAAAEX4/26YdUDkzn1M/s1600/IMG_6831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-St4YK8pqpDc/VpyoY0rdrgI/AAAAAAAAEX4/26YdUDkzn1M/s200/IMG_6831.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Casa dos Nativos</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Essa é a trilha. O Vale do Pati é a maratona do esportista
que tinha como meta percorrer e foi quase isso que encarei o percurso com minha
cunhada corredora. A vista do Vale do
Capão, Serra da Lapinha, morro do Pati, planalto gerais do Vieira, do Rio Preto
e afins é algo fenomenal. O Pati tem desníveis íngremes sobre pedras soltas,
leito do rio, exposição a altura e o único meio de transporte é a mula. Não
pega celular, telefone, hotel, hospital, não tem água quente, e mal e mal um
pouquinho de energia vinda de poucas placas de luz solar. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
O lance é ficar na casa dos nativos, últimas famílias
remanescentes da plantação de café, antes do Parque Nacional. A comida é
maravilhosa, super caseira e com uma pitada de Chapada - mamão verde, cactos,
aipim, etc. O que não tem lá tem que ser trazido pela coitada da mula. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tips: Largar tudo e sair gritando e cantando no planalto
geral do Vieira, igual a Noviça Rebelde.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Vale do Pati: Gruta
do Castelo e Cachoeira dos Funis (12km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAmVsRf55VU/Vpyo8yGJz7I/AAAAAAAAEYE/HZ47rBeXP-0/s1600/IMG_1534.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MAmVsRf55VU/Vpyo8yGJz7I/AAAAAAAAEYE/HZ47rBeXP-0/s320/IMG_1534.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entrada da Gruta do Castelo</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Subida em uma baita serra da Lapinha com destino a Gruta
enorme de quartzito. Nessa trilha o exercício não é apenas squat mas os membros
superiores se agarrando nas árvores tipo Koala. A trilha me lembrou o Morro do
Baú em Gaspar/SC, a mais difícil em toda a mi há vida, feita com meu pai e o
Quintani. Não sei se os dois se lembram mas tiveram que me empurrar pra cima em
grande parte desta trilha. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Foi muito esforço pra nem ver a casa de kryptonita do Super
Homem. O quartzito é um pó branco que brilha um pouquinho mas sem um “wow
factor”. Final da trilha, um mergulho rejuvenescedor na Cachoeira dos Funis.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Tips: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Deitar na pedra no Final da Gruta do Castelo e olhar pra
cima vendo os pingos de água caírem de forma desorganizada por causa do vento e
voarem como mosquitos pelo ar pelo Vale do Rio Pati. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Mentalizar de que não existe cobra pois se bobear, pegará
nela achando que é mais um galho de árvore. By the way, bota é super
recomendado, pois 90% das tentativas de mordidas de cobras são até a canela das
pernas. E se for picado, só uma mula pra te tirar de lá literalmente. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Cachoeirão por Cima
(18km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDq9KWVcPAM/VpypfdxTqiI/AAAAAAAAEYQ/cpEY2AhEXJ0/s1600/1309.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KDq9KWVcPAM/VpypfdxTqiI/AAAAAAAAEYQ/cpEY2AhEXJ0/s200/1309.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O nosso guia - em direção ao Vale do Pati</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Vista de cima do Cachoeirão, foi o meu trecho preferido do
Pati (acho que porque era plano haha). É uma cachoeira num cânion com várias
quedas (quase 20) sendo a maior de 300m. Recomendo pra quem quer vencer o me do
de altura (é verdade que quem tem medo de altura é porque quando vê altura quer
se jogar?). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Do Vale do Pati ao
Guiné (15km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3haZ6igDoU/VpzdKu5NYUI/AAAAAAAAEbI/8eLXfYfgNLM/s1600/1316.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Y3haZ6igDoU/VpzdKu5NYUI/AAAAAAAAEbI/8eLXfYfgNLM/s200/1316.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cemitério Gótico Bizantino - Igatu</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Caminhada atravessando os Gerais do Rio Preto terminando a
expedição com uma vista da Serra do Esbarrancado no povoado do Guiné. Dormimos
em Mucugê, uma das cidades mais antigas da Chapada, têm uns casarões antigos de
estilo Português e um cemitério Santa Isabel, estilo gótico bizantino,
encravado no pé de serra que merece e muito a visita. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Cachoeira do Buracão
– Igatu (6km)</b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G8BKpTDqM_I/VpzU4ogn_3I/AAAAAAAAEZQ/sLiDb4VerJs/s1600/DSCN1218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-G8BKpTDqM_I/VpzU4ogn_3I/AAAAAAAAEZQ/sLiDb4VerJs/s320/DSCN1218.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">O nado até o Buracão</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Meu Deus o que é essa cachoeira. Não sei se algum dia vou
ver algo que se compare com essa, e olha que já estou meio rodada, viu? Não
falo da cachoeira em si, mas o jeito que se chega e o desconhecido se
aproximando a cada metro. Pra começar, se atravessa a mata atlântica, cerrado,
caatinga, o escambau, pula-se a ponte e nada-se em um rio estreito cercado por
uma parede de pedras em camadas. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jTdFD41pXVU/VpzVv1VRfJI/AAAAAAAAEZc/ls5t97kAX34/s1600/DSCN1248.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jTdFD41pXVU/VpzVv1VRfJI/AAAAAAAAEZc/ls5t97kAX34/s200/DSCN1248.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Em direção ao arco-íris 360 graus</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mas no
final como recompensa, realizei vários desejos neste lugar: descobri que arco-íris
pode ser de 360 graus e eu ainda posso estar no meio! (fique em baixo da
cachoeira às 12h e vc tb o verá), pulei daquelas pedras igual canguru, fiz massagem no dedão do pé até o cabelo (na Cachoeira
das Orquídeas e também hidromassagem na super
banheira natural. Gente, pra que eu preciso de mais? Comer um boi inteiro
depois do passeio, lógico.</div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jq4lYKO2VcM/VpyqBnzvrlI/AAAAAAAAEZA/2zVKV5LW_GU/s1600/DSCN1312.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Jq4lYKO2VcM/VpyqBnzvrlI/AAAAAAAAEZA/2zVKV5LW_GU/s320/DSCN1312.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Massagem relaxante na Cachoeira das Orquídeas</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cmg07mkbUTA/VpzZrKj_ilI/AAAAAAAAEak/pDOTE94fon4/s1600/DSCN1317.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Cmg07mkbUTA/VpzZrKj_ilI/AAAAAAAAEak/pDOTE94fon4/s320/DSCN1317.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hidromassagem natural</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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</div>
<div>
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<b>Igatu, Poço Encantado
e Poço Azul</b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zpEm8500rBA/VpzW31j7PCI/AAAAAAAAEaM/7XAgYdWYdIE/s1600/DSCN1388.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zpEm8500rBA/VpzW31j7PCI/AAAAAAAAEaM/7XAgYdWYdIE/s200/DSCN1388.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poço Encantado</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Igatu: vila com menos de 400 habitantes, com as casas feitas
de blocos de rocha do garimpo de diamante. Alguns chamam inclusive de Machu
Pichu baiano. A vila também foi tombada pelo patrimônio histórico e artístico
brasileiro, dando um ar bucólico e pacato na a região.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Tips: se hospedar na pousada em Igatu – <a href="http://www.pousadaflordeacucena.com/">Flor de Açucena</a>. É
quase como uma programação a parte de tão integrada com a natureza e
aconchegante aquele lugar. Tirei foto de cada quina do lugar.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Poço Encantado: um grande espelho mágico é a imensa piscina
natural de água azul turquesa com 60 metros de profundidade, dentro de uma
gruta de calcário. Dá medo só de ver de tão cristalino e inacreditável, pois
não dá pra saber onde começa a água e onde termina sendo que é possível ver até
a pedrinha que fica a 60m de profundidade. Um raio de sol cruza o poço até o
fundo através de uma entrada de luz criando um espectro maravilhoso
principalmente entre os meses de abril e setembro. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mFgn5VTnQfM/VpzXlDioxuI/AAAAAAAAEaY/JtAZC8TW5MU/s1600/DSCN1445.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mFgn5VTnQfM/VpzXlDioxuI/AAAAAAAAEaY/JtAZC8TW5MU/s200/DSCN1445.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Poço Azul</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Poço Azul: um luxo só onde ainda se pode fazer flutuação no
interior da gruta. Também de águas cristalinas, a profundidade é de 20 metros e
dá pra observar as formações rochosas e alguns seres vivos, tipo camarão. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Tips: <o:p></o:p></div>
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-Ir depois das 14h pra ver a incidência da luz solar no poço
azul. <o:p></o:p></div>
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-Não fazer xixi no poço haha.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Gruta da Lapa Doce,
Gruta Azul, Gruta da Pratinha, Rio Pratinho, Pai Inácio (5km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Iraquara é famosa por seu subsolo de rochas calcárias que
permitiram a formação de grutas e cavernas com formações rochosas raríssimas. O
passeio deste dia foi 5 em um.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Gruta da Lapa Doce: complexo de caverna com 20km mapeados
mas apenas 850m pra visitação. Pra quem gosta de caverna irá adorar esse lugar.
<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Gruta Azul: logo translucido que ganha tons azulados entre
14h e 15h (abril a setembro). Ela é fechada pra mergulho mas a gruta da pratinha
é aberta, que fica no mesmo complexo. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vsunjC3qUM/VpzcVyUvAjI/AAAAAAAAEa8/RTAvYBl61mU/s1600/1482.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0vsunjC3qUM/VpzcVyUvAjI/AAAAAAAAEa8/RTAvYBl61mU/s200/1482.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gruta da Pratinha</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Gruta da Pratinha: dá pra fazer flutuação na parte interna
da gruta, em um túnel escuro com saída
para um lago com águas cristalinas mais parecido com praia. Tem uma tirolesa de
85m no local e passeios de caiaque pra quem estiver afim.</div>
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<o:p><br /></o:p></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6jjZtbew71g/VpzcAq3LQGI/AAAAAAAAEaw/YBpiPzNywck/s1600/1508.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-6jjZtbew71g/VpzcAq3LQGI/AAAAAAAAEaw/YBpiPzNywck/s200/1508.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Morro do Pai Inácio</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Pai Inácio: Atrativo mais clássico da chapada e garantia de
likes no Facebook. São mais de 1000 metros de altura, com 360 graus de uma vista
surreal. E a trilha nem é difícil, viu? Não faz nem cócegas na trilha do Pati. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Lençóis - Parque de
Muritiba – Cachoeirinha da Primavera</b></div>
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<br /></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7fAehFngno/VpzggzolIKI/AAAAAAAAEcc/YvHP_gQm8QU/s1600/IMG_7175.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Q7fAehFngno/VpzggzolIKI/AAAAAAAAEcc/YvHP_gQm8QU/s200/IMG_7175.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Eu e a Jaca</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Lençóis é uma cidade turística, tombada pelo Instituto do
Patrimonio Artistico Nacional, já reinou e muito o coronelismo na época do
garimpo de diamantes no século 19. <b><o:p></o:p></b></div>
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Tip: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
-Jantar a luz de velas na rua de paralelepípedo. Um charme. <o:p></o:p></div>
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-Em Lençóis fiquei no <a href="https://www.facebook.com/EspacoLuzDiamantina/?fref=ts">Espaço Luz Diamantina</a>, uma pousada onde
o casal também faz guia pararapel e escalagem.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Parque de Muritiba – Cachoeira da Primaveira: uma opção
perto da cidade pra fazer em 3 horinhas de passeio. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b>Cachoeira do Sossego
(14km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FqVKTB8DxNk/VpzenHUnWvI/AAAAAAAAEbU/B4MzgU26Yfk/s1600/1550.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FqVKTB8DxNk/VpzenHUnWvI/AAAAAAAAEbU/B4MzgU26Yfk/s200/1550.JPG" width="155" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cachoeira do Sossego</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Caminhada seguindo o leito do Rio Ribeirão até a Cachoeira
do Sossego. Na volta, parada pra banho no Ribeirão de cima e do meio, conhecido
pelo escorrega natural que termina no poço. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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<b>Cachoeira do Mosquito
e Poço do Diabo (6km)<o:p></o:p></b></div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h-Can4Wsdcg/VpzfG-TAoDI/AAAAAAAAEbg/IbR2_PumL4c/s1600/IMG_7470.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-h-Can4Wsdcg/VpzfG-TAoDI/AAAAAAAAEbg/IbR2_PumL4c/s200/IMG_7470.JPG" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cachoeira do Mosquito</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Mais uma cachoeira linda com piscinas ao redor e banhos em
cima e embaixo da cachoeira.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Última tip da Chapada Diamantina: todos os passeios que fiz
foi através de uma agência local, Nas Alturas. Recomendo pela organização, tranquilidade,
economia de tempo e pelo conforto já que muitos locais não são tão habitáveis
assim.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Ao total foram mais de 100km bem caminhados nos 12 dias que
passei por lá. Vi bastante coisa mas também faltou muita coisa pra ver como: Mini
pantanal do Marimbus, Cachoeira do Calixto, Poço da Prefeitura, Cachoeirão por
Baixo, Andaraí, Cozinha Aberta (2 irmãos), Poço do Diabo, Estrada do Garimpo
(bike), Cachoeira Encantada e o que forem descobrindo durante a vida e quiserem
compartilhar conosco. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
. E se eu tivesse que eleger o Oscar da Chapada seria:<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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-Melhor cachoeira: Buracão</div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAifgVAJ9n0/VpzkG8n9xuI/AAAAAAAAEdY/zC4ee0cr2S4/s1600/DSCN1222.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-xAifgVAJ9n0/VpzkG8n9xuI/AAAAAAAAEdY/zC4ee0cr2S4/s200/DSCN1222.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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-Melhor sobremesa: geladinho de mangaba em Lençóis <o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-erZeLfqpiHM/VpzfcCMmvsI/AAAAAAAAEbs/8ix42TSg48k/s1600/1575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-erZeLfqpiHM/VpzfcCMmvsI/AAAAAAAAEbs/8ix42TSg48k/s200/1575.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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-Pousada mais criativa e sustentável: Flor de Açucena –
Igatú</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bGlEpvTuSV8/VpzgQLR7gzI/AAAAAAAAEb4/TQjvAwfIv7U/s1600/IMG_7305.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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-Melhor restaurante: Pizzaria Integral Capão Grande</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iUrkd6G1_vo/VpzhL3A2HEI/AAAAAAAAEco/Bxz0sdwAeFA/s1600/IMG_6792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-iUrkd6G1_vo/VpzhL3A2HEI/AAAAAAAAEco/Bxz0sdwAeFA/s200/IMG_6792.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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-Melhor mirante: Morro do Pai Inácio empatado com Cachoeira da Fumaça (sorry, fiquei indecisa)</div>
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-Banho mais louco: poço encantado<o:p></o:p></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNck37EnODE/Vpzi_NANT3I/AAAAAAAAEdM/EvYnnPTTzME/s1600/DSCN1474.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNck37EnODE/Vpzi_NANT3I/AAAAAAAAEdM/EvYnnPTTzME/s200/DSCN1474.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
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-Maior quebra de paradigma: estar dentro de um arco-iris 360 graus.</div>
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-Obs: baseado estritamente na opinião pessoal de quem viu
apenas parte da região. <o:p></o:p></div>
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.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>Dedico este post a Wanessa, minha cunhada, que fez a viagem
ser mais rápida, intensa e divertida, compartilhando a dor e as alegrias, e a Gisele, amiga querida que acompanhou
este processo de aventuranças pela vida. Gisele, você vai chapar na Chapada!</i></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-38547429967828495592015-12-07T15:33:00.004-08:002015-12-09T14:27:57.379-08:00Bush Tucker – the ancient plants that need to be discovered by the young people and Australians<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AxMXVI_WUWI/VmYWjdTHX4I/AAAAAAAAEWo/qxVKveDukF4/s1600/IMG_1168.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AxMXVI_WUWI/VmYWjdTHX4I/AAAAAAAAEWo/qxVKveDukF4/s320/IMG_1168.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Bush tucker
can be from animals (kangaroo, emus, turkey, wallaby, snakes, lizards, etc),
plants and fruits (wild orange, bush passionfruit, bush fig, bush tomato, bush
banana, bush coconut, lemon myrtle, bush plums, bush onion-yalke, native
lemongrass, bush yam-sweet potato, seeds and spices (wattle seeds, mulga seeds,
ruby saltbush), insects (witchetty grub, caterpillars) or honey and nectars
(honey ant).</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">However,
be</span>cause of the climate, some wild food/animals, which are not originally from
the region have thrived in Central Australia’s desert, such as camel, dates, quandong,
feral cat and bush honey.</div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7M5jwJfVw60/VmYWeBguvMI/AAAAAAAAEWg/H4eBYu5yLXA/s1600/IMG_1165.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-7M5jwJfVw60/VmYWeBguvMI/AAAAAAAAEWg/H4eBYu5yLXA/s320/IMG_1165.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Being there
I could try some bush tucker and learn a bit about them with <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kungkas-Can-Cook-269576373079275/" target="_blank">Kungkas Can Cook</a>. Bush tomato, for
example, is considered a treat, which is given to children, however, rarely are
they found in the arid parts of Australia. Interestingly their growth is stimulated
by fire to break the dormancy and germinate</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="background: rgb(255, 255, 204); font-family: "comic sans ms";">.</span><span lang="EN-AU"> As they don't
grow in abundance the aborigines made a fruit ball to be hidden and stored for
several years gave in little portions for their children (maybe it was the
beginning of the protein balls! Haha). But it is not every bush tomato is
edible and even for the edible ones a particular technique is used to eat them
because most of them need to remove the poisonous part (or maybe this is the
secret to keep us far from this delicatessen). For my taste buds it was bitter
and reminded me of Vegemite (now I understand why Australians love this!). Bush
tomato was the only “chocolate” some children got from the desert and they couldn´t
keep away from this treat. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Another indulgence
which is very difficult to find in the wild world is sugar bag - the honey made
by </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Australian native stingless bees from the Western Desert. I got one from the
Warlpiri tribesman who hunted it from wild nests. It’s real bush tucker. Even
though sugar bar is a natural sweet substance originating from the nectar of
flower like honey, it has its own special flavour, totally different. It tastes like burned caramel with honey and
propolis (it is also a little bit bitter, but enough to mix well with the sweet
caramel). The flavour is out of this word and it’s a highly prized food for
Aborigines who hunt it from wild nests.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span lang="EN-AU">I also
tried quandong the wild peach, saltbush dukkah, native salty herb, and wattle
seed, which only germinates after bushfires and is a rich source of protein and
carbohydrate in times of drought. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">Next time I’m
keen to try honey ants and a witchetty grub.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Honey ant
is an ant that stores honey in their stomachs to share it with other ants when food
is scarce. Because of their size, honey ants cannot move. Who tasted it say
that is a very strong honey with lemon. Aboriginal women grab them from the
nest into the ground.</div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Witchetty
grub is a delicacy found in the roots of the witchetty bush. Women dig for
them. Some people say that they taste like scrambled eggs and almonds.</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="background: white; color: #777777; font-family: "tahoma" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">I wish I
could share this experience with every friend I have and this is the reason I
am writing this post. If you have the opportunity to go there, do it and try as
much as bush food you can. You will not regret it </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="EN-AU">. (more experience to be made in outback on this <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/outback-more-than-20-new-experiences-to.html" target="_blank">post</a>). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">I’m happy
to have Rayleen Brown from <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kungkas-Can-Cook-269576373079275/" target="_blank">Kungkas Can Cook</a> to share her culture and yummy bush food with me. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">More information: </span><a href="http://www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au/living/plants"><span lang="EN-AU">http://www.alicesprings.nt.gov.au/living/plants</span></a></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-11310632489211908522015-12-07T15:29:00.000-08:002015-12-09T14:27:43.102-08:0015 Things to Do in Alice Springs and Region<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw-_pvmRNg0/VmYUFl8mN8I/AAAAAAAAEV8/HSfEky4WMaE/s1600/IMG_1218.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Uw-_pvmRNg0/VmYUFl8mN8I/AAAAAAAAEV8/HSfEky4WMaE/s320/IMG_1218.JPG" width="320" /></a>Today,
Alice Springs is the main town in central Australia. There are heaps of things
to do there and I couldn’t do everything I was planning to experience.
Surrounded by a sea of red sand the size of Europe, Alice Springs attracted
many famous pioneering characters. Alice Springs began its modern history as
Stuart, a telegraph station on the Adelaide to Darwin line. Before that, the
region was inhabited by Aboriginal people believing in an important figure
there, the caterpillar (MacDonnell Ranges), amazing view from the airplane. I
spent there only 2,5 days that wasn´t enough for me but and I can suggest some
activities, such as:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaBVpwoM1cI/VmYRyHzdkEI/AAAAAAAAEVU/CLOuclwtMqQ/s1600/IMG_1126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aaBVpwoM1cI/VmYRyHzdkEI/AAAAAAAAEVU/CLOuclwtMqQ/s200/IMG_1126.JPG" width="150" /></a><b><span lang="EN-AU">1. <a href="http://www.alicespringsdesertpark.com.au/" target="_blank">Alice Springs Desert Park</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Great for
the nature lovers! It’s a huge area introducing to Central Australia - plants,
animals, landscapes and people of the desert. There are more than 10 shows per
day! Every half hour you can learn more
about the animals, aboriginal survival in the desert, kangaroo, dingo, etc. My
favorite was the free flying bird show. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sdPzQEq9BPc/VmYRIocMu9I/AAAAAAAAEVM/q5UKI2uMzf4/s1600/IMG_1036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-sdPzQEq9BPc/VmYRIocMu9I/AAAAAAAAEVM/q5UKI2uMzf4/s200/IMG_1036.JPG" width="150" /></a><b>2. <a href="http://www.reptilecentre.com.au/" target="_blank">Reptile Centre</a><o:p></o:p></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">There are
shows with the pet snakes, lizards, crocodile where you can give it a go to
touch and work on your phobia. This park enables visitors to get up close and
personal with these creatures. Due to the fact I am freaky about snakes, I
could at least try to not die in front of one of them and it reduced my fear of
them just a little bit. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">3. <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Kungkas-Can-Cook-269576373079275/" target="_blank">Kungkas Can Cook</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkq1w6pGvRU/VmYSPH9WC-I/AAAAAAAAEVc/4MH-SUG_-O4/s1600/IMG_1171.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fkq1w6pGvRU/VmYSPH9WC-I/AAAAAAAAEVc/4MH-SUG_-O4/s200/IMG_1171.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">Since I
arrived in Northern Territory I was keen to eat bush food and I asked everyone
how I could make it until I found Kungkas Can Cook cafe. OMG it makes me
crazy!!! I tried fruits, bush honey, seed and heard the history how to get
them, etc. It was so much new that I wrote in <u>another post</u> about bush
tucker. I wish I could share this food with every friend I have.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">4. The Didgeridoo Workshop</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">The
workshop occurs every day in the city and explains how to play in one of the
world’s oldest instruments. I’ve been playing wind instrument since I was a
child and I confess that didgeridoo is not as easy to pick up as I was
thinking. Trying to make different
sounds, vocalizing, harmony and taking in the tips on the rhythm, it is definitely
something that you really need to practice much more. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dS4sPdomF5Y/VmYSqPdTwpI/AAAAAAAAEVk/L9e64eZfC7c/s1600/IMG_1187.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-dS4sPdomF5Y/VmYSqPdTwpI/AAAAAAAAEVk/L9e64eZfC7c/s200/IMG_1187.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span lang="EN-AU"></span></b><br />
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">5. <a href="http://www.starshowaustralia.com/" target="_blank">Earth Sanctuary</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">It’s an
amazing experience to learn about the stars over our heads. I had the
opportunity to see the moon, Saturn, Antares in a stethoscope and ask as many
questions as I could about our space.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">6. <a href="http://www.artsandmuseums.nt.gov.au/araluen-cultural-precinct" target="_blank">Araluen Cultural Precint</a><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">20 minutes
walking from the city, there’s a huge area to experience the Art & Culture
of Central Australia. The Museum of Central Australia, Aviation Museum,
Theatre, Expositions, Sculptures are held in this area that provides an integrated
visitor experience. You can spend all day if you want, how many things you have
in just one area. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">7. West Macdonnel Ranger National Park<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">I didn’t go
there but sounds like an amazing spot to see. The ranges stretch over 640km
running east-west through Alice Springs. It is 250km west of town with many
spots to climb and swim. In the desert there are not too many areas where you
can find waterfalls, natural swimming holes and lakes so it is worth it. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">8. Trail<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">It is a
challenging 242km trek from Alice Springs towards the West, along the spine of
the range, immerse in chasms and gorges. It is one of Australia’s most
spectacular bushwalking and trekking experiences. No public transport runs to
this area. I didn’t do it, maybe next time. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">9. Olive Pink Botanic Garden<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">This
itinerary you can do by yourself with a guided book showing you every wild
plant from the desert (now boast over 600 plants). Don’t expect to see a huge
rose garden but a lot of desert bush that maybe you’ve never paid attention to.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">10. Anzac Hill Lookout<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">I don’t
know what makes the sunset in the outback look like the moon so I
wholeheartedly recommend you to see it in every opportunity you have there. One
spot in Alice Springs is the Anzac Hill Lookout where you will have a great
view of the town and the surrounding landscape.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">11. Gem Cave Jewellery<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">This store
in the city specialises in Australian Opal. It is so beautiful that I recommend
10 minutes to see the colourful and shiny Opal and the different types such as
black opal, white opal, etc., which a little stone can cost more than AU$20,000
(Opal is one of the 10 most expensive stone in the World). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Apart from
this, there are plenty of activities that I didn’t have time to do. Alice
Springs is a modern town rich in history, attractions and offers different
tourism. Each place has its own story to tell, for example, a doctor who had saved
the lives of those living in remote areas with his airplane. There is also an innovative project, which makes
it possible for children living in remote central Australia to participate in
school classes called the School of the Air.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">What do do near Alice Springs<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">When people
decide to go to the Red Centre, the most common place to visit is Uluru and the
rest is plus, including the city Alice Springs. But there are too many things
to do there that you can save more time to exploring the region. Ok, let’s
start with the most famous icon of Central Australia. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZmkyP8uvJI/VmYTaHDEIHI/AAAAAAAAEVs/5abipooEu3Q/s1600/IMG_0775.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-LZmkyP8uvJI/VmYTaHDEIHI/AAAAAAAAEVs/5abipooEu3Q/s200/IMG_0775.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">12. Uluru <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">One of
Australia’s most true blue Aussie icons of the outback is World Heritage-listed
Uluru. You cannot miss seeing the sunrise and sunset on “the rock”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Before the
journey to Uluru, all visitors are invited to visit the Cultural Centre where
you can understand about the importance of this region for the local
environment and aborigines. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Uluru/Ayers
Rock rises 348 metres from the desert (higher than The Eiffel Tower), 3,6km in
length with a circumference of 9,4km and it is believed that Uluru extends for
5 km below the surface (Uluru is like an iceberg where most of it is under the
soil). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">At
different times of the day the colours shift constantly, from pink to blood red
to mauve, and the sky reflects also an indescribable colours composing with the
rock. Looking how one big rock is in the middle of nothing make me astonished
of the powerful God who put something so special there.</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #777777; font-family: "tahoma" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-waNE7lUNyQM/VmYUj9THOvI/AAAAAAAAEWE/hT3z39bWznQ/s1600/IMG_1196.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-waNE7lUNyQM/VmYUj9THOvI/AAAAAAAAEWE/hT3z39bWznQ/s200/IMG_1196.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uluru from the airplane</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-AU">In Uluru
you can find a hollow and the very scarce permanent water hole where animals
and aboriginal people can survive in the desert and this is one reason that
this location is so important. The rock also has plenty of symbology and signal;
the aborigines don’t allow you to take picture to not “discover” their secrets.
The rock count a big story about that woman should look after their children
and have the right to defend them if necessary. Also there are sites with draws
that means that is one area used to teach and spread their culture. You have
some spots where only women are allowed or only men can visit (private area). Also
you cannot climb the rock as well, in spite of this some companies continue to give
tours to climb and people take their own risks.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Uluru is so
far the World’s most famous monolith and this is the reason of thousands of
people from all over the World go there every day. Everyone has a spot that is
not in front of the others where you are be able to peacefully enjoy every
moment. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">13. Kata Tjuta – Valley of the Winds <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KfnvV6EnLfY/VmYVMKXRTKI/AAAAAAAAEWM/8xoTpqCGK-M/s1600/IMG_0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="69" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KfnvV6EnLfY/VmYVMKXRTKI/AAAAAAAAEWM/8xoTpqCGK-M/s320/IMG_0818.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Uluru and Kata Tjuta - separated by 30km</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-AU">Kata
Tjuta/The Olgas, literary means “many heads”. There are 36 rock domes of
various sizes and the tallest dome is around 546 metres high. I don’t need to
say there is a current of wind, do I? There are strong winds whip around the
boulders and through the gorges. I spent there 4 hours doing the 7,4km hiking
through creek beds, feeling the wind, domes and beautiful wilderness. I think
walk between Kata Tjuta is more surprising than walk around the Uluru rock
(both are separated by 30 km. In the middle and around them, nothing, ops, red
sand. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Both of the
complexes of rocks have water pool where animals come at night to drink it,
which makes these areas sacred for aboriginals. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LtQ3sZUFHeE/VmYTmlvxSWI/AAAAAAAAEV0/--psro10SvQ/s1600/IMG_0942.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LtQ3sZUFHeE/VmYTmlvxSWI/AAAAAAAAEV0/--psro10SvQ/s200/IMG_0942.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">14. Kings Canyon <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">The
Australia’s Grand Canyon in the Watarrka National Park reminds me again Chapada
Diamantina – BA (Brazil). Walk around the rim of the canyon allows you to gaze
down in awe at the sandstone chasm plunging 270 metres to the canyon floor.
Into the depths of the chasm, there are luxuriant cycads around the permanent
waterhole in the Garden of Eden with a tropical climate (only in this oasis, by
the way). The Lost City is a breathtaking spot that looks like a huge beehive.
The amphitheatre is also spectacular. Kings Canyon is my favourite track in
Australia for sure.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j-gGIle_Ssw/VmYWDTmtcsI/AAAAAAAAEWY/9UHG2J2mWKc/s1600/IMG_0948.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j-gGIle_Ssw/VmYWDTmtcsI/AAAAAAAAEWY/9UHG2J2mWKc/s200/IMG_0948.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">I was
impressed about the facilities in this remote area. You see stairs, bridge, signs,
easy access into the valley of water holes and pool and smoking bins. The
Garden of Eden is also a sacred place because of the pure water and people are
not allowed to swim there.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">15. Mount Connor/Atila<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">An imposing
mesa located on a flat salt pan. The tourism bus stops there and I really
wanted to walk in the salt dry lake but I couldn’t (no time for it). It’s look
really nice and shiny in the distance. Some people commit mistake thinking that
this pan is Uluru because is also something enormous in the middle of a big
desert.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">So, I
described the famous spots and something I’ve learned there but if you know
anything else, I’ll be glad if you share with me. </span>I hope my
purpose was achieved – share my experience in an inhospitable area in Northern
Territory and learned a little about aborigines, history and ways to survive in
the desert. I’m sure you will be surprised as I was after seeing it with my own
eyes.<br />
<br />
Ps: If you want to know 25 things to do in Darwin, see in this <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/25-things-to-do-in-darwin-and-region.html">post.</a><br />
And experiences in outback, click <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/outback-more-than-20-new-experiences-to.html">here. </a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">More
information:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.travelnt.com/"><span lang="EN-AU">http://www.travelnt.com/</span></a><span lang="EN-AU"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.tourismnt.com.au/"><span lang="EN-AU">http://www.tourismnt.com.au/</span></a><span lang="EN-AU"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.parksaustralia.gov.au/uluru/index.html"><span lang="EN-AU">http://www.parksaustralia.gov.au/uluru/index.html</span></a><span lang="EN-AU"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><a href="http://www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport/">http://www.ntlis.nt.gov.au/roadreport/</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/"><span lang="EN-AU">http://www.parksandwildlife.nt.gov.au/</span></a><span lang="EN-AU"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-60541672438067288122015-12-07T15:01:00.002-08:002015-12-09T14:28:19.956-08:00Termite Mound – the tallest non-human constructions on Earth<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DLu39nL_img/VmYNSRNB_0I/AAAAAAAAEUk/NnIq4fFkHxY/s1600/IMG_0600.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-DLu39nL_img/VmYNSRNB_0I/AAAAAAAAEUk/NnIq4fFkHxY/s200/IMG_0600.JPG" width="150" /></a>When I
first saw a termite mound (more than 5 metres) I was confused with ants. People
normally think this as they try to make a connection with something they have
seen before. After a while I realized that termites are what I know as a
“cupim” in Brazil.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Because
I’ve never seen such a tall non-human construction on earth, I felt really
impressed by them. The “castle” is really hard to break as they build the
termite mound using grains of sand and saliva. They are amazing architectural
feats complete with arches, tunnels, chimneys, insulation and nursery chambers.
People in the region make bricks from termite mounds to build their houses or
pubs since it is so robust. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">It is easy
to see termites when they came with winds in the summer burning them in the
light. Termites don’t have eyes like ants; they are transparent and very
sensitive when exposed to sun and light. Actually the queen of a termite colony
has wings to fly and find a new place to create her castle. The secondary
reproductive members don’t have wings. If you tried to kill the termite colony,
it is only possible after killing the queen. It doesn’t matter how many
termites you are going to kill, the colony will survive as
the queen is capable of producing over 30.000 termite eggs per day! Over her
lifetime, a termite queen can produce upwards of 165 million eggs. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span lang="EN-AU">The incredible
little queen reigns for 50-60 years until she dies. She has the power of the throne.
The queen is so big (almost the side of a human hand) and cannot move. So, the
workers surrounding the queen take care of her basic needs. When she dies, the colony
dies and the mound becomes a free house for ants or bricks for humans’ house.<br />
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NRo_icwMLdM/VmYNhDp_hNI/AAAAAAAAEUs/i0W8ruNFQKI/s1600/IMG_0612.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NRo_icwMLdM/VmYNhDp_hNI/AAAAAAAAEUs/i0W8ruNFQKI/s200/IMG_0612.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Termite bricks for human´s house</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KqgTxp2BwU/VmYNwettZiI/AAAAAAAAEU0/ig0a6_BTUSU/s1600/IMG_0613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-0KqgTxp2BwU/VmYNwettZiI/AAAAAAAAEU0/ig0a6_BTUSU/s200/IMG_0613.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In this pub, the bricks is from termites</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MwCGii0JckI/VmYNIE3NEyI/AAAAAAAAEUc/XmTrDyAetNY/s1600/IMG_0483.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MwCGii0JckI/VmYNIE3NEyI/AAAAAAAAEUc/XmTrDyAetNY/s200/IMG_0483.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Litchfield National Park</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-AU">Another
impressive building is the magnetic termite mounds that look like gravestones
on the grass (big cemetery). The mounds are flat and huge. Every mound is
cleverly aligned north to south to minimize the exposure to the sun and keeping
the mounds cold for the termites. It is possible to see the termite mounds all
over the Northern Territory, but the “official” place is in Litchfield National
Park. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
You can’t believe
your eyes as you survey hundreds of two-meter-high termite mounds standing
upright in the same direction, like enormous magnetic compasses.<br />
<br />
I couldn’t kick the bucket without seeing it.Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-24218937969533114602015-12-07T14:48:00.001-08:002015-12-09T14:28:59.752-08:00Outback – more than 20 new experiences to be made, impressed and seen there<div class="MsoNormal">
Starting at
the end, I can assure that it was for sure my best trip in Australia so far. I
am not telling you that I didn’t like the others, but I really loved the new
experience I had there and also I wasn’t expecting so much beauty. My objective
of this post is to encourage people to go there and see the marvellous treasure
Australia has with your own eyes.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Before
travelling to Outback, the first thing came to my mind when I heard the word “Outback”
was the amazing international restaurant I used to go in Brazil (by the way it
is not from Australia). The second thing was the big rock and red sand. Every
tourism agency I went to I could see packages selling attractions to the big
rock and one day without thinking too much, I decided to give it ago. When I
researched what to do there, I was impressed by the number of things the
Northern Territory has to offer. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTLgvlpm--E/VmYMVrMt_aI/AAAAAAAAEUU/8JMoQoBcPO0/s1600/IMG_0818.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="86" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-MTLgvlpm--E/VmYMVrMt_aI/AAAAAAAAEUU/8JMoQoBcPO0/s400/IMG_0818.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Sunrise - Uluru (left) and Kata Tjuta (right) - separated by 30km</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span lang="EN-AU">Outback is
the colloquial name for the vast desert region that comprises most of
Australia’s interior (the arid Red Centre in the Northern Territory) and some
of the most iconic landmarks in the world including Uluru (Ayers Rock), Kata
Tjuta (the Olgas), Watarrka (Kings Canyon), Karlu Karlu (Devils Marbles), the
ancient Aboriginal rock paintings at Kakadu National Park and south of Tennant
Creek. You will see hundreds of waterbirds and wildlife, the sandy red desert
and lush parks and waterholes, vastness in land and diverse in culture.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">The
population is only 230,200 spread all over the Northern Territory, which means
too much land for too few people. The number of males to females is the highest
of any state or territory and the median age is the lowest in Australia (31,2
years). The proportion of aborigines is 30% (the highest proportion of all the
states and territories). Some research I
did after the trip ;).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Northern
Territory can be divided into 4 regions from North to South: Darwin Region,
Katherine Region (Katherine Park), Barkly Region (Tennant Creek) and Central
Australia Region (Alice Springs). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">I did 10-day
tour from Darwin to Alice Springs with <u>Wayoutback Company</u>. You can camp,
track, cruise, spot wildlife with someone experienced. I also stayed 2 more days
in Alice Springs and 1 more day in Darwin, but if I could do it all again I’d
separate at least 3 extra days in Darwin and 4 extra days in Alice Springs not
a part of the tour. During these “free days” you can get to know better the
local culture, try the local food, visit aboriginal sites, explore the region
according to your curiosities and I assure you (100% guaranteed) that you will
be surprised by this experience. I confess that this region also reminds me a
lot of my Country, Brazil. </span>For example, places like Chapada Diamantina
(BA), Bonito (MS), Mato Grosso (MS), Manaus (AM), Piratuba, (SC), etc.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">It was in
the Northern Territory where I had the opportunity to do and try many things
that I’d never experienced before or at least it had been a long time since I
had done them, such as:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">1. Some of
the most well-known and spectacular <b>sights</b>
in Australia including Uluru, Kakadu National Park and Katherine Gorge and some
of the sixty national parks and reserves in NT.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">2. Spectacular
breathtaking <b>sunset</b> and sunrise. OMG!
I was on holiday, sure, but watching the sunrise and sunset was “a must do”
every day. The colourful of the sky was indescribable. Every day, every minute,
one unique show. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-33rAV-tJKQw/VmYJkXwiZTI/AAAAAAAAETQ/bBOxv7urQpI/s1600/IMG_0960.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-33rAV-tJKQw/VmYJkXwiZTI/AAAAAAAAETQ/bBOxv7urQpI/s200/IMG_0960.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">3. <b>Signs</b> were everywhere. Seriously… even
if I wanted to hide from them I couldn’t because I was surrounded by arrows. There
were signs for lifts, stars, bridges, cigarettes bins, drinkable water,
ecological toilets etc. This really
surprises me as I’d never seen such a good organization in such a remote area.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N74XwU-rjVs/VmYJz08IgkI/AAAAAAAAETY/sk3ZTrPBnxo/s1600/IMG_0599.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-N74XwU-rjVs/VmYJz08IgkI/AAAAAAAAETY/sk3ZTrPBnxo/s200/IMG_0599.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-AU"></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></span>
<span lang="EN-AU">4. Eat <b>green ants </b>alive or if you are very
lucky, the honey ants (I’ll be really envious of you if you could do it haha).
For who wants to know the taste of green ants is a superpower citric which is impossible
not to make a face while eating them. And the honey ants, people told me about,
as I didn’t get a chance to try them, taste like honey with lemon, like a
strong Chinese tea (Honey Lemon Tea). The aborigines eat honey ants as the
honey ants stock honey in their bodies which is normally to be shared with the
other ants if they don’t have enough food to eat. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t_TLQs1An4Y/VmYKRajhr2I/AAAAAAAAETg/Ao_2EQImNxU/s1600/IMG_0481.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-t_TLQs1An4Y/VmYKRajhr2I/AAAAAAAAETg/Ao_2EQImNxU/s200/IMG_0481.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">5. Be
shocked by the biggest castle of <b>termites</b>.
I was so impressed that I wrote another <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/termite-mound-tallest-non-human.html" target="_blank">post</a> just telling a little bit
what I learned about termites there. You will see thousands of them when you
visit the Northern Territory and it is impossible not to ask questions about
the tallest non-human constructions on earth. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">6. Be
surprised with the poorest and driest <b>soils</b>
in Australia where plants, animals and people have created clever ways of
surviving in such a harsh environment. Look outside the airplane how the desert
looks like a big red ocean, which it once was in the past. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ikS_rHxawvI/VmYKdLwfrRI/AAAAAAAAETo/1W7HhLKSB5Q/s1600/IMG_0785.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ikS_rHxawvI/VmYKdLwfrRI/AAAAAAAAETo/1W7HhLKSB5Q/s200/IMG_0785.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-AU">7. Sleep in
the <b>swag </b>and wake up every hour to
contemplate what my eyes couldn’t believe – the stars. I also couldn’t believe
looking at people sleeping with ear plugs and eye patches!!! Waking up with a
kangaroo near you in the middle of the night is amazing. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">8. Get a
chance to know a little bit more about the <b>stars</b>,
as you are in one of the amazing spots to look up the stars. Another point to
make here is that the moon is different from my country. While Brazilian moon
is a letter “C”, Australian moon is a smile </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="EN-AU">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">9. Ride a <b>camel</b> and learn the importance of this
animal for this region, how people domesticate the wild camel. On this topic I
can suggest the documentary “Track” about a girl that spent 10 months with 2
camels crossing the red centre. And there is also my favourite documentary called
“Whipping Camels”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U8qb13zMxos/VmYKuqlLggI/AAAAAAAAETw/VGAnOyh1MD4/s1600/IMG_0703.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-U8qb13zMxos/VmYKuqlLggI/AAAAAAAAETw/VGAnOyh1MD4/s200/IMG_0703.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">10. See
wild, pet, tiny and huge <b>snakes</b> all
over the northern territory and witness the aborigines happiness when they find
one to eat or show to the tourists.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">11. See
plenty of others <b>animals</b> in the wild
or in the captive. See them in a way you’ve never seen before, kangaroos,
wallabies, emus (the largest bird of arid Australia and well adapted to life in
the desert), dingos, frogs that look like plastic or are fluorescent, touch
lizards like blue tongue or the bizarre Thorny Devil, thousands of colourful
parrots, visit a croc by taking a cruise along the Mary River or at night near
your camp (their eyes are red with the flashlight). See the cane toad, a big
pest that was introduced to Australia from Hawaii that spread all over the territory
and neighbouring states killing native animals.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b2fVxatrMh0/VmYK94Kl5qI/AAAAAAAAET4/cLnerGBk_98/s1600/IMG_0893.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b2fVxatrMh0/VmYK94Kl5qI/AAAAAAAAET4/cLnerGBk_98/s200/IMG_0893.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">12. Cook
food on the fire and try the yummy bread (called “damper”) in a pot on the
fire. <b>Eat</b> fresh nuts from the Lily
Water (aquatic plant looks like “Vitoria Regia” from Brazil) while you are
doing the crocodile tour. Try bush tucker (bush tomatoes, quandongs, bush
banana, etc. Learn more about <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/bush-tucker-ancient-plants-that-need-to.html" target="_blank">bushtucker</a> (another post) and how aborigines survive in the desert. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">13. Be
testimony to the numerous intentionally <b>bushfires</b>
in order to manage bush and don’t feel bad about that. See many birds waiting
to eat smoked BBQ.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">14. <b>Camp</b>, find the best wood to make the
campfire and assure that you are not going to be freezing at night.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-RcYnaayw0/VmYXx6VkHKI/AAAAAAAAEW8/a3M0CkgU_Xc/s1600/IMG_1058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l-RcYnaayw0/VmYXx6VkHKI/AAAAAAAAEW8/a3M0CkgU_Xc/s200/IMG_1058.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">15. Learn
about <b>aboriginal culture</b>. Be
reminded that you cannot explore all over the country as there are many areas
that belong to Aborigines. Learn traditional dot painting and the symbology of
the drawings. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">16. Try to
play or listen the enchanting <b>didgeridoo</b>.
In this region one can do a workshop and realize that it is not as easy as you
thought that it could be. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">17. Learn
how to throw a <b>boomerang</b>, the
instrument used to kill animals to be eaten.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEZd2GTjRes/VmYLLsbj8HI/AAAAAAAAEUA/9mXtlO-oglk/s1600/IMG_0721.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-SEZd2GTjRes/VmYLLsbj8HI/AAAAAAAAEUA/9mXtlO-oglk/s200/IMG_0721.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">18. Stop
and have a seat in the fascinating bush <b>pubs</b>
and historic stock routes, talk with the owner, learn a little bit about the
place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">19. Climb
the gorgeous red earth bizarre <b>rock formations</b>
as you are in a natural playground<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nE4A8Io2OaM/VmYLlb-8pVI/AAAAAAAAEUI/3bzDFittt6M/s1600/IMG_0722.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nE4A8Io2OaM/VmYLlb-8pVI/AAAAAAAAEUI/3bzDFittt6M/s200/IMG_0722.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">20. Feel <b>homesick</b>. As I told you before, many
areas reminded me of my country, Brazil. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">21. <b>Soak</b> in the spectacular waterfalls or hot
spring water. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">22. Learn
that <b>Opal</b> is not only a card to
travel on transport services in Sydney but one of the 10 most expensive stones and
from Australia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">I really
encourage people to go there instead of focusing only on the coast. It is a
true blue fair dinkum aussie experience for who wants to know more about
Australia. The outback is unforgettable. And if you want some tips and keen on
to give Outback a go, I wrote more a little bit (<a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/25-things-to-do-in-darwin-and-region.html" target="_blank">Darwin</a> and <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/15-things-to-do-in-alice-springs-and.html" target="_blank">Alice Springs</a>) to be done and seen
there.</span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Hope I
could encourage you to visit Australia’s amazing red centre. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-61514633830817511992015-12-07T14:32:00.001-08:002015-12-09T14:29:33.264-08:0025 Things to do in Darwin and Region<div class="MsoNormal">
Darwin is
known as “Top End” of Australia, being the most northern capital city The top
things to witness or go to there include the temperature (between 30 and 33◦C),
the sunset (the name “top end” makes sense at that time because the colourful sun
set over the ocean and the markets. The worst part is that despite it being so
hot you cannot swim at the beaches because of 2 reasons: salty croc and
jellyfish also love the area, but they have created an artificial beach to give
it a go and also a park with waves near the harbour.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Darwin suffered
some cyclones and was attacked by Japanese during WW2, so, many buildings you
can see the destruction. The last cyclone was in a Christmas day in 1974 and
they have the sound recorded in the museum. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">My first
suggestion when you arrive in the city is to ask about the local market. It
will be the first place where you can see a little bit of everything. The
famous is in Mindil Beach but there are also other options depending on the day
of the week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">1. The Mindil Beach Market<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFh0asGBkL0/VmYEftOX7ZI/AAAAAAAAER4/4b-Kz6OBTTQ/s1600/IMG_0476.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LFh0asGBkL0/VmYEftOX7ZI/AAAAAAAAER4/4b-Kz6OBTTQ/s200/IMG_0476.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">To start,
OMG! The view of the sunset from the beach is stunning! The market in front of the
beach is held every Thursday and Sunday and I was lucky to have an opportunity
to visit this enchanting place – sunset, music, art, food… There are plenty of different options to eat,
crafts to see, live bands, street performers, didgeridoo show, jewellery,
fashion & artistic creations and many products made by croc and cane toads
leather. There is a huge local commerce there.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">2. Deckchair cinema<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">An open-air
waterfront cinema that screens Australian, foreign and classic films during the
Dry. Looks really cool and also has a good selections of movies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">3. Darwin’s Wave Lagoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">The lagoon
is like a beach with no sand, where man-made waves of up to 1.7 metres are
generated regularly. You pay to get into and you can use boogie boards and
water tubes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">4. Waterfront Swimming Lagoon<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">This is a
free saltwater recreation lagoon with a man-made beach and shady lawn beyond.
This beach reminds me Airlie Beach in Whitsundays also man-made. The best part
is to sunbake the grass but the water is not my favourite taste. I really
prefer ocean current.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">5. George Brown Darwin Botanic Gardens<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">This garden
established 130 years ago has survived numerous cyclones and the direct effects
of WW2. It is one of a few botanic gardens in the world, which has a marine and
estuarine plants grown naturally in its grounds (the site extends inland from
the sea to a plateau providing a range of planting environments). If you don’t
expect to see a garden of roses, you will be fine there </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="EN-AU">
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">6. Other things to do in Darwin<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Because I
only spend 1 day free, I couldn’t get to know the city properly, but you can
visit the new Defence of Darwin Experience, the WW2 Oil Storage Tunnels,
Crocosauros Cove called “cage of death” crocodile dive, Crocodylus Park to see
crocodile feeding, Jenny’s Orchid Garden (my father loves orchids and it makes
me like orchid a little bit by osmosis. It’s a shame I didn’t see the largest
variety of tropical tree orchids in the Northern Territory. In Darwin Harbour
you can also take a ferry at Cullen Bay Marina and take a trip to Mandorah
(20min) or Tiwi Islands (2h), join a tour to turtle nesting sites on bare Sand
Island.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">What to do near Darwin<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">In Darwin you
can buy packages to visit all region or a guide tour from Darwin to Alice
Springs stopping in some of the best parks and touristic tours. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">7. Mary River Wetlands<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mfpC0_39AJ0/VmYFbhUUWTI/AAAAAAAAESA/8GpgFNznhE0/s1600/IMG_0521.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-mfpC0_39AJ0/VmYFbhUUWTI/AAAAAAAAESA/8GpgFNznhE0/s320/IMG_0521.JPG" width="320" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">The Mary
River Wetlands remind me of the Pantanal River in Brazil. It is possible to do
a cruise searching for Crocodiles all along Mary as it has the highest concentration
of saltwater crocs, but I did a tour with Mary River Wetlands. On this cruise
you can see crocs in their own habitat going about life as normal and you don’t
feed them different from a crocodile show. Consequently you also can’t see
crocs jumping from one side to the other waiting for the food that someone is
going to feed them. Just to take note that saltwater crocs are very dangerous
and totally different from fresh water crocodiles. One week before I went
there, one crocodile grab a man from the boat and ate him. There are a lot of
signs all over the territory to advise people where it is possible or not to
swim. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">This region
is also home to over 250 bird species. So, you will see birds, parrots with
different colours in along the river. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">8. Kakadu National Park<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">World
Heritage-listed Kakadu is Australia’s largest national park filled with
waterfalls, rugged gorges, wetlands and massive crocs. It also has one of the
highest concentrations areas of ancient Aboriginal rock art sites. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">My wish
when I visited Kakadu was to stay for longer and see more. There’s so much to uncover. Bowali Kakadu Visitor
Centre is one stop to know a little more what all park have to offer and to
dream to come back next time.</span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">9. Twin Falls<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">To see Twin
Falls you need to take a ferry to cross the river. Unfortunately you cannot
swim there which is a pity as it is a spectacular view but not enjoyable as a
whole. Before it was possible but due to
too many accidents and it being a remote area which is only reachable via helicopter
(there aren't any streets there) they don’t allow anyone to swim in this pure
water. </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">L</span><span lang="EN-AU">
Thank God that after Twin Falls we could go for a dip at Jim Jim Falls </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="EN-AU">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">10. Jim Jim Falls<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SLKjdXjO6Rw/VmYFvzVqlSI/AAAAAAAAESI/zo10i4rMFjI/s1600/IMG_0557.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SLKjdXjO6Rw/VmYFvzVqlSI/AAAAAAAAESI/zo10i4rMFjI/s200/IMG_0557.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">Jim Jim
Falls is considered the most beautiful waterfall in Australia. It’s really
amazing and there is also “a fresh water beach” near the waterfall. My suggestion
is not to stay only at the beach but try to reach the waterfall, which is
really awesome. Many people from my trip didn’t go there because they were a
little bit exhausted. It is literally just a few more steps and you will see an
spectacular view where you can cool off. There is also a trip where you can
take a helicopter to see Jim Jim Falls over the sky, which seems to be really
nice as well.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">11. Ubirr/Nadab Lookout<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw_ILsmTYSs/VmYF_PspOxI/AAAAAAAAESQ/CQy-ByZyP98/s1600/IMG_0575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Kw_ILsmTYSs/VmYF_PspOxI/AAAAAAAAESQ/CQy-ByZyP98/s200/IMG_0575.JPG" width="200" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">This place
also reminds me “Pai Inácio” from Chapada Diamantina (BA – Brazil). There is a
panoramic view over the floodplain and beyond into Arnhem Land. To see it, you
need to climb to the top of Ubirr (it’s a stunning spot for a sunset). There
you can also see many Aboriginal rock art teaching the abundant food to be
found in the area.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">12. Other spots in Kakadu</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">I didn’t go
to the Gunlom Falls in Kakadu National Park (this option is given in the tour when
it is not possible to go to Jim Jim and Twin Falls). The pictures of this waterfall
looks also amazing. It’s a large plunge pool with a postcard backdrop of the
Arnhem Land escarpment. It looks like you are swimming in the precipice.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">13. Litchfield National Park<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">90 minutes
drive from Darwin is Litchfield Park featuring a myriad of diverse environments
including rugged sandstone escarpments, monsoon rainforest, magnetic termite
mounds and stunning waterfalls. There was the centre of tin and copper mine
until it was designated as a national park. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">14. Florence Falls <o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ciIVZGNwFgU/VmYGgo5rlbI/AAAAAAAAESg/0mWBgiz3PJ4/s1600/IMG_0598.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ciIVZGNwFgU/VmYGgo5rlbI/AAAAAAAAESg/0mWBgiz3PJ4/s200/IMG_0598.JPG" width="150" /></a><span lang="EN-AU">It’s a
waterfall set amidst monsoon rainforest (approximately 120 steps to get to the
bottom). It was the place where I was introduced to the green ant and gave it a
go eating it for my first time (it’s not too bad. If you want a citric juice,
maybe you can use just one ant and mix with a cup of water and you will be
fine. 100% of citric guaranteed!).</span><br />
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">15. Wangi Falls</span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Very easy
to reach this falls and an enjoyable swim with a big pool and a picturesque natural
playground to be reached – the waterfall </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-family: "wingdings"; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span lang="EN-AU">.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">16. Magnetic Termite Mounds<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">A major
attraction seen on driving into the park are the many Magnetic Termite Mounds
found on the floodplains, standing up to two metres in height in a north-south
orientation and also the huge termite castle mounds (more than 5 metres). It
was so incredible that I wrote <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/termite-mound-tallest-non-human.html">another post</a> just about termites. I
went bananas after saw the mounds! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">17. Adelaide River Inn<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU">An
accommodation and also an iconic pub which is home to “Charlie the Buffalo”
from Crocodile Dundee is a good spot to get to know local culture.</span><br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">18. Other spots in Litchfield<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">As every
park, there are plenty of attractions to be seen (The Lost City, Surprise Creek
Falls, Tandy Creek Falls, etc) and also 39 kilometre circuit bushwalking. To see
all spots it will take at least 4 days with a four-wheel drive only. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">19. Nitmiluk/Katherine Gorge National Park<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vb-heZMxWpM/VmYHpZbIYCI/AAAAAAAAESo/ApEw59oFd_w/s1600/IMG_0694.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Vb-heZMxWpM/VmYHpZbIYCI/AAAAAAAAESo/ApEw59oFd_w/s200/IMG_0694.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-AU">Katherine
and Nitmiluk National Park is where the tropics meets the outback. The gorge is
full of freshwater crocs (not as dangerous as salt water). It is a deep and
picturesque gorge where you can take a boat cruise or paddle a canoe through
the peaceful water. The Katherine River flows through 13 separate gorges that
carve their way through the Arnhem Land Plateau. Waterfalls and rock pools are
found along over 100 kilometres of walking tracks, beginning at the park’s
visitor centre.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU">20. Edith Falls</span></b><span lang="EN-AU"> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">Edith falls
is another spot to be seen. Cool off, do
a picknick and have a break in Nitmiluk. Edith Falls is the finishing point of
the 66km Jatbula Trail walking track. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU">21. Mataranka Camp</span></b><br />
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jVbuKlj480/VmYH1tIGqAI/AAAAAAAAESw/na-i5Iitl5U/s1600/IMG_0657.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-0jVbuKlj480/VmYH1tIGqAI/AAAAAAAAESw/na-i5Iitl5U/s200/IMG_0657.JPG" width="200" /></a></span></b></div>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">A camp
where you have a structure to sleep, eat and take a shower. But don’t stay more than 5 meters near the
water as there are plenty of crocodiles in this river. We here slept in the
swag surrounded by wallabies. Easily you can see crocs at night if you go near
the river (no worries, they are too lazy to jump from the river up to 5 meters.
But less than 5 you will be killed). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">22. Mataranka Thermal Pool<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ArsfzyvRk8/VmYICej24WI/AAAAAAAAES4/VmtXt98P5rY/s1600/IMG_0629.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_ArsfzyvRk8/VmYICej24WI/AAAAAAAAES4/VmtXt98P5rY/s200/IMG_0629.JPG" width="200" /></a></div>
<span lang="EN-AU">Soaking in
the Mataranka Thermal Pools is something unforgettable. It is a lush oasis
fringed by paperbark trees. The best ever gift after days of walking, and the perfect
way to soothe away those aches and pains after a hard day are travelling. I
wish I could stay there longer. Crystal clear turquoise water reminds me
Piratuba (SC) and Bonito (MS) from Brazil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
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<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b>
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtcXRv7eIwQ/VmYIYm2bksI/AAAAAAAAETA/DR6Fk4XlrjA/s1600/IMG_0643.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-NtcXRv7eIwQ/VmYIYm2bksI/AAAAAAAAETA/DR6Fk4XlrjA/s200/IMG_0643.JPG" width="200" /></a><b><span lang="EN-AU">23. Daly Waters Pub<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">The
quintessential outback watering hole famous for its bush hospitality and a
great spot for a bit of history and a fair dinkum outback experience. It is
famous for the memorabilia adorning the walls. It’s difficult to find “human
live” in the desert, so, in this place is a chance to connect with the locals,
aborigines, fuel the car, buy something to eat and relax. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">24. Tennant Creek<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">It is
biggest town with 3000 people builded when the telegraph line was opened in the
region linking Australia to the rest of the world. People started to go there
more after finding gold. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H23TxFx-LI0/VmYIt3vxHsI/AAAAAAAAETI/nOUHx9Wu3N8/s1600/IMG_0723.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-H23TxFx-LI0/VmYIt3vxHsI/AAAAAAAAETI/nOUHx9Wu3N8/s200/IMG_0723.JPG" width="149" /></a><b><span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<b><span lang="EN-AU">25. Karlu Karlu/Devils Marbles<o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">An
outstanding geological feature, which is a collection of gigantic granite
boulders magically balanced on top of one another. You can spend hours taking pictures
playing around with your creativity. I felt like a child climbing in every
stone I could, it’s a huge nature playground to be explored and have fun. Also the
sunset is incredible there. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span lang="EN-AU">After
looking all the main parks and famous local spots, I was in direction of the
Red Centre, Alice Springs, Uluru, Kings Canyon, etc. So, if you want to
continue reading more tips from the Red Centre, I divided in <u>another post (Alice Springs).</u> </span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-AU">And
please, if you know another amazing spot to be seen, let me know maybe to give
it a go in the future.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-AU"><br /></span>
Ps: If you want to know 15 things to do in Alice Springs, see in this <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/15-things-to-do-in-alice-springs-and.html">post.</a><br />
<span lang="EN-AU"></span><br />
And experiences in outback, click <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2015/12/outback-more-than-20-new-experiences-to.html">here. </a></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-91035113006884218782015-09-30T10:03:00.000-07:002018-08-12T01:56:20.550-07:0014 dicas do que levar de lembrança da Austrália para o Brasil<div class="MsoNormal">
Na minha primeira
viagem da Austrália ao Brasil fiquei ensaiando por um bom de um tempo o que
poderia levar de souvenir e compartilho a minha lista para quem também como eu
precisou de inspiração. Talvez o primeiro item tenha controvérsias mas sobre
fatos australianos não há o que discutir.</div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUPkzzCFaYk/VgwUPXAE-cI/AAAAAAAAEQ8/4amXz2KjSX4/s1600/souvenir.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iUPkzzCFaYk/VgwUPXAE-cI/AAAAAAAAEQ8/4amXz2KjSX4/s320/souvenir.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>1. Vegemite</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Sim, o vegemite. A pasta
escura, fonte de Vitamina B, salgada e amarga feita com o extrato de levedura
usada para passar no pão. A maioria dos brasileiros tem aversão ao gosto,
entretanto <span style="font-family: inherit;">nenhum australiano nega que é um símbolo nacional e super popular
nos cafés da manhã. <span lang="EN-AU">Os australianinhos desde cedo já
ouviam a jingle que diz que quem come Vegemite cresce forte e deixa a bochecha
rosinha: <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-AU">“</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="background: white; font-size: 10pt;">We're
happy little <a href="https://youtu.be/Aix0cEp0N_0" target="_blank">Vegemites</a> as bright as bright can be,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><span lang="EN-AU" style="font-size: 10pt;"><br />
<span style="background: white;">We all enjoy our Vegemite for breakfast, lunch
and tea,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;">Our mummy says we're growing stronger every
single week,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;">Because we love our Vegemite,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;">We all adore our Vegemite,<span class="apple-converted-space"> </span></span><br />
<span style="background: white;">It puts a rose in every cheek!”</span></span></span></div>
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<b>2. Peanut Butter </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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O que a gente tem no
Brasil é o Amendocrem que nada se compara com a pasta pura de amendoim dos
Aussies que não vai nem sal ou açúcar e é uma delícia. Fonte de proteína,
excelente substituto saudável para a manteiga, já adotei na minha dieta aussie
de ser. Melhor que Vegemite, eu garanto.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>3. Blu Tack </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Sabe aqueles produtos
que quando a gente descobre que existem não sabe como viveu a vida inteira sem
eles? Me apaixonei desde a primeira vista. É uma massa adesiva reutilizável
parecida com um chiclete azul. Serve pra colar qualquer coisa em qualquer
lugar. Cartazes, quadros na parede, caneta, etc... Quantas vezes pensei em
fazer um furo na parede mas desisti por ser ultra inconveniente. </div>
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O <a href="http://www.blutack.com/" target="_blank">Blu Tack</a> resolve tudo isso e torna a vida de
estudante muito mais fácil e prática. </div>
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<span style="color: red; font-size: 10.5pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<b>4. Heg peg </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Power prendedor de
roupas que customiza espaço através dos dois ganchos em cada lado, dá para
pendurar tudo junto ao mesmo tempo: camiseta, calcinha, sutiã, etc. Super
prático, o produto tem ganho alguns prêmios com o posicionamento “<a href="http://www.hegpeg.com.au/" target="_blank">Heg Peg</a>. No more peg
marks, no more line marks, no more sun marks”.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>5. Lucas Papaw</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Creme com mais de 100
anos que resolve tudo é o substituto da
nossa Minâncora, Hipoglós, Bepantol e afins que também servem até para cara
feia. Os australianos carregam este creme no bolso a tira colo e usam hidratar
os lábios, cutícula, pele descamada, picada de mosquito, feridas, queimadura,
rachadura, alergia... qualquer coisa que está estranha na pele é motivo pra
usar <a href="http://lucaspapaw.com.au/" target="_blank">Lucas Papaw</a> que é feita da árvore do mamão, um excelente antisséptico.</div>
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<b>6. Bumerangue </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Objeto que os
aborígenes usavam para caçar, cortar carne, cavar buraco, arrancar frutos das
árvores e afins. De madeira curva, é arremessada com o objetivo de voltar ao
ponto de origem quando não atingir o alvo. É divertido se considerar brincar
naqueles campões abertos e não correr o risco de machucar a si próprio ou
alguém. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>7. AFL Football</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Antes dos ingleses
chegarem na Austrália os aborígenes já jogavam essa bola meio deformada e de
couro. As primeiras bolas comerciais eram bexigas de porco enchidas de barro
com a boca ou um canudo. O futebol é para o Brasil o que o AFL é para os
australianos. No início é difícil jogar a bola no chão e fazer com que ela
volte para a sua mão e não vá para uma direção totalmente oposta, mas
australiano que é australiano sabe brincar com ela e a gente vê muitos
australianos saírem para caminhar com a bola na mão pra jogar um pouquinho no
parque.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>8. Tim-Tam </b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Chocolate/biscoito popular
tipo bizz, culpado por fazer a maioria das brasileiras engordarem na Australia.
E sim, aprendi a técnica de se comer <a href="http://www.arnotts.com.au/products/tim-tam/" target="_blank">Tim-Tam</a> derretendo o chocolate por dentro:
morder as duas pontas transversais e usar o tim-tam como canudo com leite
quente. É um dos sete pecados capitais da Australia, fato. </div>
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<b>9. Vitaminas</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Aqui entra uma questão
de oportunidade. Mal cheguei no Brasil dá pra ver anúncio de vitamina espalhado
em tudo quanto é revista e loja. Tem poucos produtos que são mais baratos na
Austrália do que no Brasil e a vitamina é uma delas. Então vale levar, pois tem
pra tudo quanto é gosto: cabelo, unha, pele, Ômega 3, etc... Inclusive é super
comum <a href="http://www.chemistryharhouse.com.au/" target="_blank">exportar vitamina</a> também para outros países, não só no Brasil. Minhas
amigas asiáticas comercializam direto.</div>
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<b>10. Cangurus e Coalas</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Acho que esse é o
primeiro item que todo mundo pensa em levar quando o assunto é criança. E aí
tem tudo o que é produto com os animaizinhos cute australianos: ursinhos de
pelúcia, mochilas e penais de cangurus, etc. Não tem como não escapar de uma
loja de souvenir australiana em qualquer esquina. E nessas mesmas lojas tem a
camiseta australiana com cara de Brasil. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>11. Camiseta</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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A camiseta de malha
com bordado também de malha escrito Australia é super clássica e até confunde
com as nossas camisetas brasileiras, pois elas também são verdes e amarelas. E
as camisetas com as cores da bandeira australiana vermelha, branca e azul são
usados secundariamente nos jogos, pode? <o:p></o:p></div>
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<b>12. Perfumes</b><o:p></o:p></div>
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Foi um dos itens que
levei pois perfume importado também tem diferença de preço e compensa comprar
na Austrália. Bem... não é australiano mas quem não gosta de um bom perfurme?<o:p></o:p></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfkR8RGnbW4/VgwUXCKucHI/AAAAAAAAERE/U92IehA35Dk/s1600/opal.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qfkR8RGnbW4/VgwUXCKucHI/AAAAAAAAERE/U92IehA35Dk/s200/opal.jpg" width="165" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Opal Stone</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<b>13. Opal</b><o:p></o:p></div>
<o:p></o:p><br />
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Termino a lista de sugestão de presentes com a pedra australiana Opal que está entre as 10 mais preciosas/caras do mundo. Nunca tinha ouvido falar até vê-la reluzindo na minha frente pela primeira vez aqui na Austrália. Vira objeto de desejo só de olhar!<span> </span><a href="http://www.mundogump.com.br/opala-o-mineral-que-nao-e-um-cristal/" target="_blank">Opal</a><span> </span>possui um jogo de cores único e pode variar entre preta, branca, incolor, azul, cinza, vermelha, amarela, verde e marrom. Às vezes essas cores podem ser vistas simultaneamente e o preço varia de acordo com a cor e difração da luz que passa entre as aberturas da pedra. E como curiosidade, 98% do Opal é produzido na Austrália mas também temos produção em Piauí!!! </div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lhQI2ezLVlg/W2_1ywqleVI/AAAAAAAANmE/BwGXVw35dm0c2GsIeTeKyZk9eG8n7W5kACLcBGAs/s1600/download.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="225" data-original-width="225" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lhQI2ezLVlg/W2_1ywqleVI/AAAAAAAANmE/BwGXVw35dm0c2GsIeTeKyZk9eG8n7W5kACLcBGAs/s1600/download.jpg" /></a></div>
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<o:p><b>14. Aromatizador de ambientes feito de Banksia e óleo de eucalipto</b></o:p><br />
<o:p><b><br /></b></o:p>
Banksia é uma flor australiana muito encontrada nas matas australianas. O cone da flor absorve o óleo que você escolhe a fragrancia que preferir. Minha favorita é o eucalipto por ser a árvore natina e ícone da Australia, perfeito como souvenir, além de ser uma obra de arte natural.Bem... se você tiver
alguma outra sugestão de souvenir aussies que esqueci de enumerar, por favor
compartilhe comigo para a minha próxima viagem. Obrigada! <o:p></o:p></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-12287877285718232782015-05-03T03:43:00.001-07:002015-12-09T14:30:25.969-08:00Anzac Day 2015 – A vision of a foreigner about the event<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 15pt;">Since I
arrived in Australia I’d heard about Anzac Day (Australian and New Zealand Army
Corps), one of the most important holidays for Australians. </span><span style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 15pt;">And my
question was why every city in Australia celebrates Anzac Day with so much
passion, intensity and love? What makes them stand up in the freezing weather
at dawn without seating? Why do they celebrate in smaller places across the
country or travel to another city for the big event? And also what is the real
meaning of this sentence that is written everywhere “lest we forget”? I went
there to check.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 15pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><a href="https://youtu.be/Ze9jXBSchFo" target="_blank">25thApril, 2015, 3:30am</a>. I was in the capital of Australia, Canberra, trying to get
to the “Australian War Memorial” to commemorate with them the 100th anniversary
of the landing of Anzac troops on Gallipoli in 1915. Dawn, in the morning
darkness, was the time of the original landing and nowadays is when the first
Service takes place. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">It was
freezing, packed, difficult to park. Everybody was walking to try to find a
spot to stand. There were some chairs, not enough for a huge mass of people
that was coming. There were families, young people, children, babies and
elderly people waiting for the Australian Dawn Service to start. </span><span style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 15pt;">The Service
began punctually at 4:30. A selection of images was projected onto the front
façade. I couldn’t believe how thousands of people could suddenly become so
silent. Seriously, it was really quiet and </span><br />
<span style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt; line-height: 15pt;">the only noise was a baby crying or some birds. </span></div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mRZ_IrQKvRE/VUX6QyFWUfI/AAAAAAAAEGw/o-TVTm_nc5Q/s1600/IMG_0346.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-mRZ_IrQKvRE/VUX6QyFWUfI/AAAAAAAAEGw/o-TVTm_nc5Q/s1600/IMG_0346.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">Letters and
diaries of Australians who experienced war were read aloud by a member of each of
the Australian armed forces for one hour. It was impressionable, but I was
exhausted, almost sleeping, frozen and hungry. Elderly people beside me fainted
on the ground. Doctors came instantly with care and some lollies. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">In the cold
darkness, the sunrise was opening in the sky while the ceremony was being held.
Trumpet, didgeridoo (a typical Australian aboriginal instrument), hymn, prayer,
the laying of wreaths, a recitation, Anzac dedication, the playing of either
the Rouse or the Roveille, the national anthem, the last post and finally one
minute’s silence followed by “lest we forget”. And all of the people repeated:
“Lest we forget”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">Because of
the darkness I didn’t realize how many people were there until the service
finished. After I walked around I could see the big parade suggested almost 130
thousand people. It surprised me how the people come out without comfort and
entertainment (only to compare, Canberra has 360 thousand inhabitants). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PEdYaGWK9Pk/VUX6yJiFEdI/AAAAAAAAEG4/lvQKydd2tBc/s1600/anzacday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PEdYaGWK9Pk/VUX6yJiFEdI/AAAAAAAAEG4/lvQKydd2tBc/s1600/anzacday.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">After the
ceremony, people gathered in the Memorial’s Commemorative Area where they
honour more than 102,700 servicemen and servicewomen whose names appear on the
Roll of Honour. People place red poppies at the Tomb of the Unknown Australian
Soldier or beside the names of relatives on the Memorial’s Roll of Honour
creating an impressive curtain of flowers. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M1tOQTtf7A8/VUX7RQcYoQI/AAAAAAAAEHA/P0CYDNpG_X4/s1600/IMG_0341.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-M1tOQTtf7A8/VUX7RQcYoQI/AAAAAAAAEHA/P0CYDNpG_X4/s1600/IMG_0341.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">To understand
a little bit about <a href="https://www.awm.gov.au/commemoration/anzac/anzac-tradition/#what" target="_blank">the origin of Anzac Day</a>, 100 years ago, on 25<sup>th</sup>
April of 1915, Australian and New Zealand men who were volunteers, were in
Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey to help British soldiers defeat the German Army
(only to contextualize, when the war broke out in 1914, Australia had been a
federated nation for only 13 years and the new federal government was eager to
establish its reputation among the nations of the world).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">In Gallipoli
the Anzacs headed ashore after jumping out of their boats and quickly find
shelter under the steep hills confronting them. They were on the wrong beach.
Soon the Turks had rushed up and the fighting in the hills became wild and
bloody. At the end of the day the order came – “dig, dig, dig, until you are
safe”. A line was made, and there the Anzacs held on. Troops were constantly
digging trenches and tunnelling for the rest of the desperate eight-month
campaign. They suffered many types of
injuries, sicknesses and also orders to run from the trenches uphill in the direction
of the enemies. A huge homicide and a failed campaign, from the beginning:
difficulty in navigation, wrong beach, beach landing in darkness, combined
obstacles, towering cliffs, dead-end gullies, dense low scrub on land,
vulnerability to enemy fire and terrible command from the monarchy. A truly
disaster. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #333333; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.5pt;">Although the Gallipoli campaign failed in its military objectives, the
Australian and New Zealand actions during the campaign left them all a powerful
legacy. </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">Anzac infuses their sense of who they are, how they
relate to one another, and how they see their place in the world. The national
spirit revealed in the courage, doggedness, and sacrifice of the troops on
Gallipoli, and in their egalitarianism and support for each other. These men
had given their young nation a story to be proud of. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">In other
words, Anzac Day is a time at which Australians reflect on the many different
meanings of war. Is was touching to see people taking part in the dawn service,
giving respect and acknowledgement to all soldiers and those who have served,
suffered and died in all wars and conflicts.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">To finalize,
when a mortally wounded Australian asked: “Will they remember me in Australia?”
The answer was: “Yes, Australia has been remembering since that day”. Lest we
forget. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #3a343a; font-family: "arial" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.5pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: PT-BR;">https://www.flickr.com/photos/australianwarmemorial/sets/72157651746619249/</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 15.0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<br /></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-78153092784412358912014-12-24T00:12:00.000-08:002015-12-09T14:39:15.062-08:00O visto está vencendo: renovo ou volto para o Brasil? / My visa is expiring: renew it or come back to Brazil?<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; line-height: 13.65pt;">Tudo
passa nessa vida, inclusive o visto e chega uma hora que você precisa novamente
decidir o que você quer e avaliar os ganhos e as perdas de voltar ou ficar.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Os
últimos três meses de visto é agoniante para todos. É quando você se pergunta
se atingiu o objetivo, se a rota ou prioridade mudou. É quando você sonha com muitas malas indo e
voltando para o Brasil. Você pergunta aos seus amigos qual
escola eles estão estudando, qual curso vocacional escolheram, se estudaram
IELTS ou Cambridge, pergunta quando o visto está vencendo e próximos
planos na Australia e tudo isso para trocar experiência e chegar a uma
conclusão pessoal. Isto falando apenas da opção de visto de estudante, sem
considerar outras como sponsorship, working visa, partner visa. O que mais me
motiva a ficar é não estar satisfeita com o nível de inglês que gostaria de
estar e que me propus quando cheguei aqui.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Antes
eu só tinha uma vida. Agora, parece que tenho duas. E eu realmente acredito que independente do
caminho a ser trilhado Deus estará comigo em ambos. É uma decisão que cabe a
cada um encontrar paz e ir em frente. Vi muitas pessoas falarem que ficariam
aqui por muito tempo e que de uma semana para outra mudaram de ideia e voltaram
para seus países. Enquanto outros que estavam com vistos curtos e com a ideia
de voltar ficaram aqui por mais tempo. A cada dia sou surpreendida com uma nova
história e os motivos que fizeram cada um tomar as suas decisões. E aqui não
existe o certo e o errado. Mas a decisão onde você tem que encarar as
consequências, pois ambas as escolhas têm as suas perdas. E não adianta
dizer que não se arrepende por nada que fez no passado, pois você vai se
arrepender quando se lembrar da perda. Fato.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">A perda
maior em ficar aqui é viver longe da família e amigos. Esta é o suficiente pra fazer com que muitos
voltem. Por mais que passamos aniversário, comemorações e natal com novos
amigos e que elas são muito prazerosas, não tem como não se lembrar do valor da
família nessas horas e de quanto sentimos falta (aqui vale um parêntese que nós
que somos brasileiros parece que sofremos mais que os gringos. As outras
culturas parecem que lidam melhor com isso, que não é o meu caso). <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Citando
as vantagens de morar aqui, acredito que seja a forma diferente de pensar e ver
as pessoas. Os instintos ficam aguçadíssimos, a astúcia, auto-defesa, tolerância, mudança de paradigmas e flexibilidade.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">E a
gente se acostuma com esta nova vida. Com a educação, regras, com o transito
fluente, com a ciclovia e a esperar na fila pra atravessar a rua. A gente se
acostuma a andar na rua com o celular. A largar a bolsa na festa. A deixar tudo
na canga e ir caminhar na praia tranquilamente. A não ver lixo e sujeira na rua
e nem buracos. A pagar a própria conta no supermercado. A gente se acostuma a andar de patinete ao
invés do carro. A andar de havaianas quase 100% do tempo e colocar a sandália
apenas quando chega ao lugar. Acostuma a andar de mochila. A não pintar a unha
toda semana. Acostuma a ver gente muito diferente da gente a toda hora. Acostuma
a diferenciar os asiáticos. Acostuma com os cheiros das comidas asiáticas e se
acostuma a comer Vegemite. A gente se acostuma com relacionamentos passageiros
(não sabemos por quanto tempo cada amigo ficará por aqui, pois sempre tem
alguém se despedindo e outro chegando). A gente se acostuma a se adaptar toda semana. Acostuma a receber pelas horas
trabalhadas, a se perguntar antes de comprar algo quantas horas precisa se
trabalhar para adquirir aquilo. A gente
se acostuma a viver com muito pouco.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">E a
gente também se acostuma com aquilo que jamais acharia que acostumaria. A
dividir a casa e o quarto com um milhão de meninas. A conviver com 2 milhões de
baratas (agora a minha casa que está limpinha mas ao fato de morar no centro da
cidade dificultam o extermínio delas pois nós é que estamos vivendo em suas
casas). A gente aprende a diferenciar a barata estrangeira voadora (que entra
pela janela no 7. andar (ela é maior e com coloração preta amarronzada) e a
barata que faz parte da família (pequena, marrom claro, tem asas cheias
parecidas com mariposa e fazem festa todos os dias as 3am da manhã). Até nem mato mais as coitadinhas! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Sim,
sinto que é muito cedo para voltar e minha decisão por hora (apenas por hora) é
ficar aqui por mais um tempo e isso me faz feliz, apesar de ter consciência
daquilo que estou perdendo. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Agora
o próximo passo é aguardar a aprovação do novo visto e continuar vivendo um dia
de cada vez. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Feliz
natal e abençoado 2015. Que seja a paz de Cristo o árbitro dos vossos corações.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i>---</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>My visa is expiring: renew it or come
back to Brazil?<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Everything ends in this life, including
visa and you have to decide again and evaluate pros and cons of staying and
going back.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>The last three months of visa are
stressful for everybody. It´s the time you ask yourself if you have reached
your goal and if any priorities changed. We dreamed with many bags going to and
from Brazil. You ask everybody about which school, course they chose and their
plans to stay here and the reasons. Here I am only talking about student visa
but there are also others as sponsorship, working visa, partner visa. The best
reason to stay here is to continue improving my English because it is not as good
as I would like it to be.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Before that I only had one life and one
option. But now, looks like I have two. I believe that it doesn’t matter which
way I travel - God will stay with me. This decision belongs to everybody to
find in ourselves the peace to continue walking. I heard many people speaking
that they will stay here longer but suddenly changed their mind and returned
home. On the other hand I saw many people who wanted to study just for a short
period of time but after living here decided to stay longer. And there is no
right and wrong choice. But you have to assume the consequences of your
decision because there will be cons either way. And don’t say you regret
anything you did in the past because again our choices have losses. This is a
fact. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>The main loss to stay here is living away
from family and old friends. However you spend a good time together in special
dates with new friends, it is impossible not to remember your family and you’re
missing (one parenthesis I think our Brazilian culture suffer a bit more
because we are more emotional than rational).<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Telling about the advantages to living
here, I believe is the new way to think and see the people and the world. Our
instinct is more accurate, our cunning, self-defence, tolerance, change of paradigms.
<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>We get used to the new life. With the
education, rules, fluent traffic, bike lane, to wait in the queue to cross the
street, to walk on the street with mobile. Drop the bag in the party. To let
your stuff on the sand with everything and walk on the beach. We get used to
see the street cleaned. We get used to pay the bill in the supermarket by
ourselves. Drive scooter instead of a car. Walking with Havaianas and backpack
almost hundred percent of the time. We get used to not have the nails done every
week. We get used to see different people all the time, learn to differentiate
Asians. We get used to different smells and to eat Vegemite. We get used with
passenger relationships because every day there is someone saying goodbye and
the other arriving. We adapt every week. To pay the bills weekly and to ask how
many hours I have to work to get the needed money. We get used to live with
less. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>We also get used with things we never believe
we are getting used to, as to share the house and the room with many people and
live together with cockroach (now my house is cleaning but the fact is we live
in their area). We get used to differentiate the cockroach (there are one that
is foreign flying, brownish black and go into the window in the seventh floor
and there are the cockroach that belongs to the family, little and light brown
with big back and every night they used to do a party. I even stop kill the
poor insects!<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Yes, it is very early to come back to my
country and my decision right now is to stay here a little more and this is
makes me feel happy despite the consciousness what I am losing. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>The next step is to wait for the
approval for the new visa and continue living one day after the other. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Merry Christmas and blessed 2015. “That
is the Christ of peace the arbiter of your hearts”.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-8966544928328159892014-10-30T07:42:00.000-07:002015-12-09T14:38:06.262-08:00Vivendo uma noite de mendiga na Austrália / Living one night like a homeless in Australia<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 13.65pt;">Esta
semana, depois de ir para a escola e emendar no trabalho até as 3 horas da
manhã, dei por conta que tinha perdido a chave de casa. Na hora entrei em desespero,
pois tinha trabalhado 10 horas seguidas sem sentar, andado de patinete pela
Sydney, e chegado ao meu limite de força (meu chefe perguntou se poderia
trabalhar até as 4:30 e recusei pois estava imprestável). Minhas pernas estavam
queimando, estava morrendo de sono, tinha aula no outro dia cedo que não podia
faltar, e no outro dia também trabalharia até de madrugada.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">Depois
de muita raiva que sobreveio sobre a minha pessoa por estar nesta situação
ridícula e simplesmente por causa de uma chave, decidi apertar algumas vezes a
campainha e usar o telefone com o conector de tomada exclusivamente brasileiro
e prático no</span><span style="color: #474b4e;">s minutos finais de carga. Nada adiantou. Quando a gente divide o
quarto com um monte de gente aprende a anular barulhos e é óbvio que ninguém
ouviu, acordou etc... E elas também não eram minha família que poderia fazer um</span><span style="color: #474b4e;">
escândalo até que me salvassem do meu erro.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">Para
contextualizar, aqui na</span><span style="color: #474b4e;"> Austrália não tem porteiro nos prédios, mas a segurança
funciona. Você não tem permissão para ir a nenhum andar a não ser o seu. É uma
chave com código que você escaneia antes de entrar no prédio e dentro do
elevador.<br /><o:p></o:p></span></span><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">Pensei
se valia a pena chamar chaveiro, gritar igual uma louca, ir para um bar e beber
como nunca, procurar um hotel, chorar, mas por outro lado tive um dia exausto, já
eram 4 da manhã, não aguentava caminhar mais um centímetro e uma hora já tinha
acabado de se passar (apenas para procurar a chave da mochila acho que demorei
meia hora de tanto que tirei e revirei tudo). </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">O cansaço venceu e decidi sentar
no chão... Depois, quando me dei conta, já estava deitada no chão... Igual um
vira-lata todo encolhido com um rabo no meio das pernas. E lá estava eu,
minha mochila, meu celular sem bateria, meu patinete, minha vontade de ir ao
banheiro, e a falta de um cobertor e travesseiro. Confesso que não foi o melhor lugar para estar
às 5 horas da manhã, mas era o que tinha para o momento e na hora eu precisava
apenas aceitar, pois a força eu já não tinha mais. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">Pensei
em tudo, na minha mãe vendo eu deitada no chão gelado depois de ter pegado uma
gripe, pensei na situação política Brasileira e no resultado das eleições, nos mendigos
que dormem no chão diariamente, e também na vergonha de encarar os moradores no
outro dia por me verem deitada feito Zé ninguém... Misto de raiva, tristeza,
indignação, injustiça, vergonha... Entretanto eu estava tão cansada que não
queria saber de mais nada, a não ser do chão. O chão sujo e gelado era melhor
que as minhas pernas queimando. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">Psicologicamente
e para me sentir mais perto de “casa”, todos que entravam no prédio eu perguntava
se morava no sétimo andar e pelo menos pegar “carona” e permissão para chegar
perto da porta de casa.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">Depois
de um tempo um anjo chamado Boat que mora no meu voltou para o térreo com um
casaco, um cachecol bem quentinho e uma lata de Coca-Cola. Odeio Coca-Cola, mas
naquele momento foi o terceiro melhor presente que havia recebido! Meu Deus do
céu como aquele casaco e o cachecol fez diferença na minha vida e tudo foi mais
possível de suportar!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">E
depois de algumas horas mais uma vitória.
Apareceu alguém que morava no meu andar e mudei minha estadia do térreo para
deitar em frente da porta de meu apartamento. Lá estava mais quente e agora eu
já estava equipada. No lado de fora de
casa, procurei com todo afinco e esperança alguém que levantasse do quarto e
fosse para o banheiro, levantasse para tomar água, mas nenhuma movimentação.
Até bati na porta, entretanto não foi tipo arrombando pois pensei: esse é o meu
problema e não das meninas que moram comigo. E eu também consigo aguentar mais
um pouco, pois agora já tenho uma lata de Coca-Cola, um casaco e um cachecol!</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
<span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e;">No
sétimo andar outra barreira foi vencida. Enquanto “dormia” apareceram das
trevas um milhão de baratas se mudando de apartamento e encontrando a minha
pessoa como um obstáculo no caminho delas. Descobri qual era o tão horário de
encontro e de mudança das baratas. E eu vou confessar que estava nem aí pra
elas!!! Elas podiam fazer o que quisessem, até entrar no meu apartamento, pois naquela
hora o que importava é que eu tinha um casaco, um cachecol e uma lata de Coca-Cola.</span><span style="color: #474b4e;">Como
tudo nessa vida passa, a noite também passou e entrei em casa tão logo as
meninas acordaram para trabalhar e um novo dia se raiou. Agradeci a Deus pela
minha vida, minha saúde, minha família, minha casa, minha cama, minha rou</span><span style="color: #474b4e;">pa,
meu trabalho, minha comida, pelo casaco, pelo cachecol e pela lata de Coca-Cola.</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span style="color: #474b4e;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 18.2000007629395px;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">Ps: Dedico este post ao anjo que apareceu em minha noite, Boat.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><br /></span>
<i><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">--</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><b>Living one night like a homeless in Australia</b></span></i></span><br />
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">In this week I worked until 3 am and
when </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">I arrived at home, I realized I’d lost my key. In that time I was desperate
because I’ve been worked for 10 hours without sitting down, my legs were
burning and I was exhausted.</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">After sometime, I decided to ring the
bell and called my share mates but my battery died. Nobody answered
unfortunately. When we share the apartment with many people, we learn not to
pay attention to the noises around us. </span></i></span><br />
<i><span style="color: #444444;"><span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><br /></span>
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">Furthermore, they are not my family and
I couldn’t bothered them with my personal problem and ask them to save me for
my mistake.</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">I thought if I should look for a hotel,
but it was 4am and I could wait a little bit more. So, I was so exhausted and I
seat on the floor. After that, I lied on the floor. And on the floor was me, my
backpack, my scooter, my wish for a blanket and the toilet. </span></span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">I confess that it
was not the best place to stay at 5 am, but in that moment I could only to accept
this situation and I wasn’t strong enough to walk one more centimetre.</span></span></i><br />
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span>
<i><span style="color: #444444;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">I thought about my mom, she would be sad
to look at me in that situation after had a flu, I thought about the politic
situation in Brazil, the result of the election, the homeless, my shame to see
the people that live in the same building like me in the next day but I was absolutely
tired and nothing mattered, I only wanted the floor. The floor was better than
my legs burning. </span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">Psychologically and to feel near my
home, everybody that entry I asked if they lived in 7 Floor to get into there.</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">An angel called Boat come back on the
floor with a jacket, scarf, and a can of coke. I hate coke but was the third
best gift I received in that night. I was so happy to have this things and
everything got easier to manage.</span></span></i><br />
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>After few more hours, one more victory. I’ve
found one person that live in the same floor and I could stay near my home and
lied down in front of my door. It was hotter and I was equipped. I decided to
knock the door and looking for some noise in my apartment but was so quiet and
nobody answered. And I thought that this was my problem and I could manage some
more time because now I had a jacked, scarf and a can of coke.</i></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><i><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;">In the 7 floor I saw many cockroaches
moving for the apartments and some of them going to my apartment and I was an
obstacle for them. But I didn’t care and they could do whatever they wanted
because at that time I was happy that I had a jacked, scarf and a can of coke. </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">Like everything goes away, the night
ended and I could enter in my apartment as soon as the girls waked up. I
thanked God for my life, my health, my family, my home, my room, my bed, my
clothes, my work, my food, the jacked, the scarf and the can of coke.</span></i></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span></span>
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #444444; font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: xx-small; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Ps: I dedicate this post to the angel that appeared to me in that night - Boat.</i></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: "arial" , "helvetica" , sans-serif;">
</span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-57607776349663571882014-10-22T19:06:00.001-07:002015-12-09T14:31:48.875-08:00Como restituir seu imposto na Australia<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit; line-height: 13.65pt;">ATENÇÃO!!!</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;">Você
que tirou seu TFN antes de julho de 2014 e não cadastrou o seu ATO, precisa
declarar imposto mesmo que não tenha trabalhado. O ano fiscal aqui é de 01/07/13 a 30/06/14.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;">O prazo
é até 31/10 e dá para fazer sozinho na internet. Depois desta data apenas com
contador. E o risco de não fazer é ganhar uma multa do governo e ter que
resolver a questão mais para frente. Vale a pena gastar 10 minutos e fazer
hoje. Super simples e acabei de fazer o meu ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;">Primeiro
de tudo, se trabalhou, peça para seu patrão o “Group Certificate” que nada mais
é do que o demonstrativo do seu salário e o quanto ele pagou de taxas. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit; line-height: 13.65pt;">Com este
papel em mãos:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 13.65pt;">1. A</span><span style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;">cesse:
</span><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="PT-BR"><a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/">https://www.ato.gov.au/</a></span></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;">2. No
lado direito superior tem a opção “register” no “My Gov”.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/general/online-services/register/">https://www.ato.gov.au/general/online-services/register/</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: 0px;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;">3. Clique em: </span><a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/general/online-services/register/individuals---mygov-and-linking-to-the-ato" style="line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;"><span lang="EN-AU" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; color: #990099;">Individuals – myGov and linking to
the ATO</span></a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.ato.gov.au/general/online-services/register/">https://www.ato.gov.au/general/online-services/register/</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;">Este
vídeo explica como criar a conta My Gov: <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZ2RRhVc7mY">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NZ2RRhVc7mY</a></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #474b4e;">4. </span><span style="color: #474b4e; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;">Depois
de criar a conta, linkar com o ATO (Australian Taxation Office)</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://my.gov.au/mygov/myaccount/services/">https://my.gov.au/mygov/myaccount/services/</a>
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Na tela virá a pergunta se você já tem o ATO. Se não tiver,
preencher o TFN (9 números)<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">No meu caso, o site não conseguiu identificar minha
identidade e eu tive que ligar para o número de telefone que apareceu na tela:
13 28 61.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="line-height: 13.65pt;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">5. Recebi
um número para preencher e rapidamente pude linkar com o ATO.</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="line-height: 13.65pt;"><span style="color: #444444;">6. </span></span><span style="color: #444444; line-height: 13.65pt; text-indent: -18pt;">No
site e já linkado, “online services”, clicar no “Lodge”, “Lodge my tax”</span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Preencher
as perguntas pessoais que aparecem<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Ex:
Você é um residente australiano? Sim!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Teve
gastos com uniforme? Sim!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Etc...
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Resumo:
em 10 dias serei restituída pelas taxas que a empresa debitou de meu salário ;)<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">E
nada se compara com o monte de arquivos que temos que baixar no Brasil para
fazer a nossa restituição de imposto e o tempo que demoramos. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #444444; font-family: inherit;">Welcome
to Australia!</span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-76203415844291824612014-09-12T19:25:00.000-07:002015-12-09T14:37:37.399-08:00Seis meses de Austrália e o trabalho físico<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Seis
meses de Austrália e o trabalho físico: aguento algumas horas, não uma vida
inteira.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Six months in Australia and the physical
work: I withstand some hour but not all live.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Meus
planos sempre foram ficar um ano na Austrália e esta semana completei metade do
percurso traçado. Sim, já se passaram seis meses e chego à conclusão que este
tempo não é nada para emergir uma nova cultura e língua. E o quanto é árduo e
extenuante o trabalho físico (a maioria dos trabalhos disponíveis a
estrangeiros são físicos).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Sonhei
que estava escalando. Quando percebi, me vi agarrada, abraçada e sustentada
apenas pelos meus braços em uma pedra da montanha. Abaixo, o precipício. A
pedra estava suspensa e presa por outras pedras menores ao lado. Abaixo de mim
e dos meus pés, apenas o céu. Fiquei com receio de fazer força e desestabilizar
as pedras muito bem encaixadas e cairmos todos juntos, eu e as pedras. Mas ao
mesmo tempo o meu consolo vinha de que se eu morresse estaria ao lado do Pai.
Mas eu não queria morrer e tentava com todas as forças jogar meus pés para cima,
sem sucesso. Sabia que poderia aguentar por mais algumas horas, não por uma
vida toda. Não naquela posição. Decidi esperar e depois de um tempo, chamei
minha mãe e foi quando eu acordei.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Fazendo
um paralelo com o que estou vivendo aqui, me sinto fisicamente sem forças para
fazer o que estou fazendo. Aqui o meu trabalho é mais físico, no Brasil é mais
mental. Ainda não sei o que é mais árduo e isto daria um novo post (o que fatiga
mais: trabalho mental ou físico?), mas por hora quero falar sobre o meu cansaço
físico. Sinto dores físicas, musculares por todo o meu corpo. Eu não imaginava
o que era trabalhar mais de 8 horas sem sentar, não imaginava o quanto uma
garrafa de água poderia ser tão pesada, não imaginava que sentiria que as minhas
pernas são fracas, pelo menos até hoje. Mas agora me sinto destruída fisicamente.
Desde o dedão dos pés até o meu cabelo. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">De
duas uma: ou eu vou adquirir força para sustentar o que hoje eu não consigo ou
eu vou ter que mudar de vida. Por hora eu preciso trabalhar, mas não
conseguirei por muito tempo, apenas por mais algumas horas.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">...........................................</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Six months in Australia and the physical
work: I withstand some hour but not all live.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>My plans always to spend one year in
Australia and in this week I’ve already completed six months. This time is
nothing to emerge in a new culture and language. And the same way how strenuous
is the physical work (most of the jobs available to foreigns are physical).<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>I dreamed I was climbing when I realized
I was only suspended with my arms in a big rock. Below me, there is only the
sky. I was afraid to do any movement that could destabilize the rock and fell down
with all rocks. My solace was that if this happened, at least I’ll be with my
Father. But I didn’t want to die and I was trying with all my strength to put
my feet on the rock, without success. I only know I could withstand for more
some hours, but not one live in that position. I decided to wait and call to my
mom and then I woke up. <o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>If I compare this dream with my current
life, I’m feeling exhausted to do what I’m doing. Here in Australia my job is more
physical. In Brazil is mental. I already don’t know which is more arduous but
at the moment I want to write about my physical fatigue. I’m felling physical
and muscle aches for all my body. I’ve never could imagine how difficult is to
work more than 8 hours without sitting. I’ve never imagine how a bottle of
water could be so heavy. I never could
imagine how weak my legs are. I’m
felling physically destroyed from my toes to my hair.<o:p></o:p></i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i><br /></i></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt; tab-stops: 326.95pt;">
<span lang="EN-AU" style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-AU;"><i>Or I’ll obtain force to sustain what I can’t
actually support, or I need to change my life. I feel as though I am working
these hours only to survive in my current situation and to get me by but not
really for a long term purpose.</i><o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-82737250910548657812014-08-27T20:02:00.001-07:002015-12-09T14:32:26.460-08:00Porque não?<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Esta
semana estou prestes a realizar dois grandes e novos desafios em minha vida:
participar de um concurso de dança (amadora, só para deixar claro) e tocar
zabumba (e não flauta) em uma banda de forró e sopro!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Não
me sinto preparada e o sentimento é de incapacidade e prestes a realizar um
desastre internacional. Mas a incapacidade entra em confronto com a vontade de
ao menos tentar, pois se não for assim, nunca saberei se consigo ou não fazer. Para
tentar eu preciso abrir mão do ideal, da perfeição, do meu conforto e dos meus
medos. Dar a cara pra bater, me doar e acreditar pelo menos um pouquinho que
pode dar certo.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Tenho
aprendido que grande parte de nossa baixa autoestima é simplesmente pelo fato
de nunca tentar. E se eu colocar horas e um pouco de dedicação mudo a escala do
“não sei e tenho medo” para “agora ao menos já sei e consigo me virar”. Ainda não estou segura quanto esta segunda afirmação,
mas é o que estou buscando esta semana desesperadamente com pausa apenas para o
post (até trabalho estou recusando!).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
participação no concurso amador de dança começou quando conheci o mais novo
parceiro de dança que nunca tinha visto na vida (ou não me lembro). Depois de
termos dançado ele perguntou se por algum acaso eu estaria disposta a
participar de uma competição de bachata na próxima semana e a resposta foi: porque não? Nunca fiz aula de bachata, tive que aprender este ritmo para dançar com os gringos aqui na Australia. E quanto a dança de modo geral comecei a experimentar um ano e dois meses antes de vir para cá.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Não
suficiente com este novo desafio, estava eu voltando do trabalho quando
encontrei meus amigos músicos e gritei: “Eu estou desesperada para tocar!!! Me põe
na roda!”. A resposta que eu não estava esperando: “vamos tocar com a gente na
semana que vem. O ensaio é amanhã e temos cinco dias para treinar”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Quando
a gente deseja uma coisa e aparece assim de supetão escancarado na sua frente dá
até medo. Na hora nem pensei e confirmei presença! Não sabia ao certo o que eu
tocaria só sabia que na banda já tinha um excelente flautista e eu tocaria um
instrumento de percussão. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Fui
então introduzida à zabumba. Jamais em toda a minha vida imaginei tocando algum
instrumento de percussão e inclusive tinha um pouco de preconceito. E cá estou
eu novamente mordendo a minha língua e tentando fazer o milagre e tirar a
batida nas duas mãos do xote e baião. Estou andando pelas ruas batendo com as
mãos no corpo para ao mínimo conseguir soar a batida básica. . <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">O
final da semana está chegando e estou tentando manter à calma que é praticamente
inexistente. Não sei quem é mais louco se sou ou os meus amigos que acreditaram
em quem muitas vezes não acredita em si mesmo, mas tem a cara de pau tamanho
monstro. Prometo que vou tentar o melhor que puder, e obrigada por já me
perdoarem se eu não conseguir. Pois afinal de contas, <b>porque não tentar</b>?<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Convido
meus amigos que estão na Austrália para participarem deste momento comigo e
serem pacientes. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<i><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></i></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<i><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Dedico este post ao novo parceiro de
dança que conheci a uma semana, Jay, ao excelente flautista que invejo mil de tão magnificamente ele toca, Oswaldo, e ao Fernando, meu novo
professor de percussão fast food em dez segundos. Vocês três são demais! <o:p></o:p></span></i></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-8954814424678375592014-07-22T02:09:00.000-07:002015-12-09T14:32:47.636-08:00Morar com brasileiros ou gringos, eis a questão.<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">Por
causa de nossas conexões brasileiras, quando cheguei em Sydney fui morar em uma
casa com mais outras 5 brasileiras em Manly em um quarto que era quase
privativo. Tudo era incrível: a casa limpa e organizada, o quarto enorme, uma
flatroom divertidíssima, a localização, a praia, o ferry, etc, mas o tempo foi
passando e comecei a me incomodar pela quantidade de tempo perdido em</span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;"> </span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">trânsito e por não falar inglês como gostaria,
e o incrível lugar dos sonhos me conectava diariamente com</span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;"> </span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">a cultura do meu país que não era a razão de
eu estar aqui na Australia, por certo. Algo precisava ser feito urgentemente.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Após
4 meses busquei um apartamento no coração de Sydney com 7 estrangeiras, sendo
cada uma de uma parte do mundo: França, Inglaterra, Taiwan, Japão, Korea, China
e Burma (minha ignorância é tão grande que nem sabia o que era Burma – para quem
também não conhece, Burma é um país localizado abaixo da China, #ficadica ;).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Além
da multiculturalidade da casa, a localização não poderia ser melhor. Moro a 15
minutos a pé da vida. Vida entende-se todos os lugares que costumo frequentar
durante a minha semana em Sydney, então novamente estou tendo um tempo que
estava perdido em algum canto do meu pequeno paraíso em Manly.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Entretanto todos os ganhos tem as suas perdas. Além das outras 7 meninas, estou dividindo
o apartamento com outras trocentas baratas que não pagam aluguel. Meu primeiro desafio é como irei administrar um lugar extremamente sujo sem dar a impressão
que sou a housekeeper do momento e causar grandes confrontos culturais
porque pelo jeito a única pessoa que está incomodada aqui sou eu. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">O
apego também continua sendo algo que me incomoda um bocado. Todas as 7 meninas
conseguem viver com uma mochila e a brasileira tem uma vida inteira para
carregar nas costas com muito mais do que 4 malas, necessitando de praticamente uma mansão. Sinto-me envergonhada com a
quantidade de coisas que trouxe para cá e que coletei neste curto espaço
de 4 meses. Vim do Brasil com 2 malas até a tampa e tripliquei a quantidade neste ridículo período. Não tinha como não perceber as meninas
chocadas com as bolsas e malas que chegavam e todas perguntando por
que eu tinha tantas coisas. Que vergonha que deu de minha pessoa, meu Deus do
céu. E novamente comecei o processo de
desapego que é a parte que quero morrer, doando roupas, sapatos,
edredons, roupa de cama para as meninas fazendo "a boa ação para mim" e diminuir a imagem negativa
que tinha acabado de causar. </span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Bem... nunca
em minha vida imaginei sair do meu conforto e viver onde estou vivendo, mas não
trocaria por nada esta experiência que estou começando esta semana. É aqui neste apartamento que escolhi viver as próximas mudanças em minha vida, onde não incluem
apenas o foco no inglês, mas o confronto com os meus defeitos, imersão em
diversas culturas, paciência, flexibilidade, desapego e tolerância. Se eu vou
conseguir ainda não sei, mas novamente estou disposta a tentar. </span><br />
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">E que morram as
baratas. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-53087324762287032252014-05-16T19:08:00.000-07:002015-12-09T14:33:10.636-08:00Cheguei até as nuvens, mas não sei como descer<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">Há
algum tempo tenho sonhado que estou em um lugar muito, mas muito alto, porém instável.
Pensa num banco com uma base pequena e pés maiores do que se possa imaginar. E
em cima deste banco, outro do mesmo tamanho, e assim sucessivamente, formando
uma única coluna. No sonho vou “escalando” as cadeiras sobrepostas – com cuidado,
pois a cada minuto tudo pode desmoronar – em direção as nuvens. Três perguntas
me veem no sonho:</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">1:
como cheguei até a última cadeira empilhada.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">2:
como permanecerei aqui pois qualquer respiração feita sinto que as cadeiras
se movem e se desestabilizam e que por
um triz tudo irá desabar.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">3:
como irei descer, pois já não me recordo como subi.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Quando
eu escalei as cadeiras, não pensei nas consequências. Apenas agi. E agora tenho
que lidar com a insegurança que atingiu o meu ser de que a qualquer momento
tudo pode cair por terra. Estou nas nuvens e nessa hora olho para a o chão que
está muito, mas muito distante, e as cadeiras se mexem como se eu estivesse em
um slackline.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Lembro-me
de quando tinha 17 anos e meu pai me levando para prestar a prova de vestibular.
Reparando no meu nervosismo fala “Não tenha medo de escalar. Todo mundo pode
cair, mas se cair, do chão não passa”. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Não
entendo de sonhos mas se eu olhar a vida que estou levando hoje, uma grande
mudança ocorreu e não estou na minha zona de conforto. Novamente me reinventei.
Realizei um desejo adolescente vindo para a Australia, que parecia ser inalcançável
e “cheguei até a minha nuvem particular”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Estou
muito feliz por estar aqui mas me sentindo extremamente insegura, limitada e
com nada palpável. Vivendo a vida na corda bamba e com um monte de dúvidas
sobre o meu futuro, pois não sei o que será de mim nos próximos meses ou anos. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Mas
esta é a graça da vida. E o meu exercício diário tem sido viver um dia de cada
vez: “Portanto, não se preocupem com o amanhã, pois o amanhã trará as suas
próprias preocupações. Basta a cada dia o seu próprio mal”. (Mateus 6:34).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-9697494789246909742014-04-25T17:57:00.001-07:002015-12-09T14:33:25.666-08:00Manly – sons e cheiros<div class="MsoNormal">
Aqui vale um post para falar apenas dos sons e dos cheiros
pois eu estou impressionada! Não sei se é a época, ou se é a Australia ou o
bairro, mas andar nas ruas de Manly é uma experiência divina! Cada casa tem um
jardim lindíssimo cheio de árvores e flores que exalam perfumes que nunca havia
sentido recheado de pássaros de diversos tamanhos, cores e barulhos. Me
surpreendi com o papagaio branco de crista lindíssimo e curioso, com outro
periquito 7 cores gracioso e barulhento, por morcegos e por outros tantos
enormes que quando pousam na árvore chegam até a pesar os galhos. Me surpreendi
com os sons do amanhecer e entardecer. A frequência dos sons dos grilos, sapos,
passarinhos é algo surreal. Para explicar, eu tive que mudar de lugar para
conversar de tanto barulho que eles faziam. De repente pousaram do nada 2 dúzias
de passarinhos que me deixaram quase surda! E eles nem se importaram que eu
estava lá, pois afinal de contas, lá é a casa deles e não a minha.<o:p></o:p></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-78705396382607862572014-04-25T17:39:00.005-07:002015-12-09T14:34:34.643-08:0025 diferenças das praias Australianas e Brasileiras<span style="background-color: white; color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">1. Tem
piscina em todas as praias movimentadas, lava-pé, chuveiro, bebedouro, churrasqueiras
públicas e banheiro com papel higiênico.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">2. Não há cachorro andando solto. Nada contra cachorros, mas lugar de cachorro não é na praia. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">3. Não se encontra pilhas de lixo no final do dia como garrafas pet, latinhas de cerveja, copos plasticos, palitos de picolé, pitucas de cigarro e afins.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">4. O
gramado na beira da praia é muito bem cuidado e utilizado pelos australianos
que fazem piquenique com vinho, queijo e afins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">5. Há
alguns campings públicos com água, chuveiro e banheiro ecológico. Você pode
acampar sem gastar um tostão ou no máximo pagar uma taxa mínima de administração. Os campistas levam suas placas solares, banheiros privados e outros equipamentos de camping que só aqui na Australia pude encontrar. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">6. Existe
bastante motor home perto das praias, atividade extremamente insegura de se
realizar no Brasil, infelizmente.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">7. Não tem ninguém vendendo algo na beira da praia. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">8. Não
tem esgoto na praia. Ele passa por um tratamento e depois de muita pressão e
peneira para diminuir o tamanho e quantidade do lixo, o detrito é encapsulado
em mini partículas levadas por tubos subterrâneos a uma grande distancia da
praia, servindo de alimento para alguns peixes.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">9. Não
tem problema deixar celular, chave do carro, prancha e afins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">10. O frescobol
é diferente. A raquete é de pano com uma bolinha pequena que não faz barulho
como uma raquete de madeira. A velocidade também é mais lenta que o nosso
frescobol.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Não
tem futebol nas praias australianas e nem taco. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">11. Os
australianos não correm e andam na areia como os brasileiros. Até tem um ou
outro, mas nada que se compare ao tráfego de pedestres caminhando nas praias
brasileiras.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">12. Os
australianos madrugam para nadar na água congelante sem roupa especial. É
impressionante a quantidade de australiano nas piscinas construídas ao lado da
praia entre 6h30 e 7h30 todos os dias, faça chuva ou faça sol.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">13. No
costão de pedra entre uma praia e outra há boias salva-vidas em diversos pontos
e placas sinalizando a direção e qual distancia as boias estão caso precisar. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">14.Não
há tanta diversidade de animais a olho nu na areia ou nas pedras como no
Brasil. Isso significa menos siri, barata do mar, conchas, tatuíras, pepinos do
mar e afins.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">15. Os
mais venenosos e mortíferos animas do planeta se encontram nas praias australianas
como o polvo de anéis azuis (o veneno mata uma pessoa em 30 minutos e não tem
antídoto), o peixe pedra (peixe mais venenoso do mundo), vespa do mar - água
viva (o corpo é do tamanho de uma bola de basquete, mas os tentáculos podem
chegar até 5m, e carrega veneno para matar até 60 homens), tubarões e outros
mais.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">16. Os
peixes são mais coloridos que no Brasil.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">17. Crianças
pequenas não usam biquínis/sungas, mas uma roupa de lycra que cobre
praticamente o corpo inteiro.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">18. Não
existe gente andando de biquíni na orla ou nas ruas próximas a praia como no
Brasil. O único lugar que se usa roupa de banho é na areia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">19. As
pessoas trocam de roupa embrulhadas em uma toalha/roupão. </span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">Não se volta para casa com roupa molhada.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">20. Não se vê guarda-sol nas praias como no Brasil, apesar da taxa de câncer ser altíssima.</span><br />
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">21. As
mulheres usam biquíni cobrindo o bumbum por inteiro e fazem topless como na
Europa. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">22. As
mulheres não são devoradas pelos olhares dos homens que no Brasil são vistas
como objeto sexual. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">23. Não se ouve pagode e nenhum outro som que não seja as ondas do mar na beira da praia.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">24. Os brasileiros amam as praias australianas e geralmente escolhem
estes lugares para morar, como é o meu caso, por exemplo.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span>
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">25. Dizem que os australianos não fazem xixi no mar, mas sobre este fato, não há como descobrir a verdade :)</span><br />
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-26305238402421538732014-04-12T17:53:00.000-07:002015-12-09T14:35:02.141-08:00Primeiro mês na Australia<div class="MsoNormal" style="background-color: white; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 18.200000762939453px;"><i>Um pouco sobre saudades, escola, trabalho, amizades, brasileiros, turismo, moradia, locomoção e a praia.</i></span></span><br />
<br />
<div style="line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">Já faz
um mês que estou na Australia e passei por muitos sentimentos neste curto
período. O maior é o psicológico da distância que potencializa os sentimentos.</span></div>
</div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Parece
que a <b>saudade</b> fica maior. A frequência
que visitava minha família era mensal, mas este mês aqui parece que foi muito
maior só pela distancia. Chego a sonhar com minha família, amigos, sobrinha... Esta
parte é a que todos reclamam e faz com que a grande maioria volte para o Brasil.
<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Sobre
a <b>escola</b>, agora já não quero mais
matar o professor, mas apenas quebrar a perna dele. Brincadeiras a parte, já
passou a fase do estranhamento e as coisas estão se encaixando.<a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2014/03/hoje-eu-chorei.html" target="_blank"> Não chorei mais na classe</a> e parei de olhar com a cara feia para o professor. Teve um dia que
precisava levar comida e música de seu país e eu toquei Carinhoso na flauta e
não é que eu fiz as pazes com o professor? Ele até pediu para eu tocar depois
para a turma que estava se formando. Nada que a música não se incuba de resolver </span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "wingdings"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Helvetica; mso-bidi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Helvetica; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Quanto
ao <b><a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2014/03/como-eu-consegui-trabalho-na-australia.html" target="_blank">trabalho</a></b>, e cada dia tem sido
desafiador e um pouco melhor. No início entendia apenas 30% do que era dito no
escritório. Agora já entendo 40%! Hehehe. Ainda sinto frio na barriga e o
trabalho mais difícil que eu tenho que realizar não é fechar contratos,
negociar mídia ou analisar propostas, fazer invoices e organizar documentos,
mas é simplesmente atender cliente no telefone! Eu quero morrer quando preciso
ajudar a telefonista nos minutos de pico a agendar shuttle do hotel para o
aeroporto. É muito difícil entender o sotaque de cada um e para mim este é o
ponto que quero desenvolver nesta empresa: atender telefone! Simples quanto
isso. Cheguei inclusive a perder uma cliente que desligou o telefone na minha
cara pois eu não entendia o que ela falava! Um desastre para mim e para a
companhia.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Outro
dia o dono da empresa pediu que não falasse mais ao telefone e gritou: “You
need to improve your English! You need to improve your English!!!” Mas o
gerente me requisita e eu faço mesmo assim só de vez em quando, pois eu quero “improve
my English”.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Quanto
as <b>amizades</b>... é muito difícil não
conviver com brasileiro. O conselho de praticamente 100% das pessoas é: não
fique com brasileiros, mas eu digo para atirar a primeira pedra quem consegue esta
proeza. Eu encontro brasileiros na praia, na dança, no bairro, no supermercado,
na escola, nos cursos de trabalho, lojas, em tudo quanto é lugar, e a gente se
reconhece. O que tenho feito é buscar inserir amigos australianos, europeus, asiáticos no
meu convívio para que a conversa obrigue a ser em inglês. Algo que também tenho
feito é falar em inglês com brasileiros, mas não é sempre e exige muita
disciplina. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Sobre
<b>turismo</b>, minha expectativa quando
cheguei aqui era conhecer este pedaço por inteiro mas se passou um mês e só
consegui conhecer o meu quadrado e este já está bem difícil explorar pois agora
só tenho o final de semana e este também é bastante corrido. Mas estou com uma pulga enorme de curiosidade
para desbravar este país.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Falando
sobre a <b>moradia</b>, dei sorte em
encontrar algo bacana logo de cara. Normalmente as pessoas se mudam bastante no
início. Divido o apartamento com mais 5
pessoas (sim, brasileiros!) e temos escala para tudo. Por mais que esteja
trabalhando e estudando longe, estou adorando morar em Manly. É um privilégio
estar do lado do paraíso.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Quanto
a <b>locomoção</b>, para mim está sendo um
pouco desgastante pois chego a gastar quase 4 horas por dia me locomovendo da
minha casa para a escola e trabalho. Isso quando não resolvo ir para outro
lugar depois do trabalho. Mas fazendo o balanço, ainda compensa morar no
paraíso e para minimizar o tempo de locomoção, tenho aproveitado para ler,
estudar inglês, falar ao telefone, ler e-mails e acessar rede social. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Agora
falando do <b>paraíso na terra</b>, procuro sempre dar uma passada de manhã e a tarde para
correr, caminhar, fazer exercício ou nadar. Comprei uma máscara e um snorkel e
tenho visto coisas incríveis em Sherly Beach: peixe branco, transparente, garoupa
maior que 30 cm, corais, plantas, etc. É um mundo a parte e com um eco-sistema
totalmente desconhecido por mim. Meu espírito de Felícia de apertar e tocar em
tudo o que eu vejo fica contido pois afinal de contas não esqueço que estou no
lugar com os bichos mais perigosos do planeta e até um peixe (stone fish) ou um
coral podem ser fatal. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Também
tenho me provocado a entrar na água, mesmo ela sendo congelante para o meu
gosto. Se todo mundo entra aqui com a maior naturalidade, porque é que eu não
irei entrar??? Neste quesito eu nem penso muito para não desistir e fico na
água o quanto aguento. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">E o
balanço deste primeiro mês é que se eu tivesse que voltar hoje para o Brasil,
já terá valido a pena. E o que vier a mais é puro lucro. Que venham os próximos meses...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-61362857404661127132014-03-22T23:12:00.000-07:002015-12-09T14:37:06.847-08:00Como eu consegui trabalho na Australia<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">O
trabalho estava ao meu lado no vôo para a Australia mas não pude enxergar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Cheguei
aqui num domingo a noite e no outro dia de manhã já estava na agencia de
turismo perguntando como poderia fazer para encontrar um trabalho, quais eram
as opções e o que se adequava melhor ao meu perfil (aqui estou falando
de trabalho físico normalmente realizados por estrangeiros, como cleanner,
waitress, counterhands, barista, kitchen hand, driver, nanny).<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Para
cada trabalho existe alguma certificação e como eu tinha focado em waitress e
nanny, fiz os cursos de RSA e First Aid na primeira semana.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Mas
o trabalho que Deus me deu já no terceiro dia através de uma indicação foi o de
removal, ou seja, empacotar caixas para mudança e carregá-las até a garagem.
Também estavam inclusos no trabalho lavar o carro, caixas, mesa e cadeira que
estava no jardim. Posso dizer que foi uma bela sessão de ginástica com direito
a agachamento, bíceps, tríceps e afins e voltei para a casa pingando. Mas o que
eu não contava é que já de cara, na primeira semana, ganhei um monte de coisas
que estava precisando comprar e outras que inclusive tinha acabado de dar no
Brasil, panela, roupa de cama, louça, além de terra, potes para plantar. Foi tanta coisa que precisei de carona para a casa e ajuda para carregar a nova mudança! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Nas
duas semanas que havia chegado, conversei com muita gente para entender o
mercado de trabalho, as experiências de cada um e ouvir conselhos. Fiz flyer, currículos
de nanny e waitress, além de uns contatos com o Brasil para intermediar
agências de publicidade aqui em Sydney. Enviei meu cv para algumas vagas, me
cadastrei em sites de emprego, participei de
workshop de nanny, brinquei com crianças
na rua e depois falei para os pais que estava a disposição para cuidar do filho
delas, me ofereci para trabalhar um dia de graça para ter experiência, pedi
trabalho para todo mundo que conhecia na Australia, li jornal, incluí meu email
em newsletter de vagas. Teve um cara que me ligou e eu não consegui falar nada
ao telefone - ele disse que não era hábil para a posição pois precisava do inglês.
Acho que praticamente todos os dias devo ter feito algum movimento para encontrar
uma forma de me manter na Aussie, como o povo fala.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">E
eu tinha esquecido que o trabalho estava ao meu lado no vôo para a Australia...<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">A
segunda semana estava terminando e lembrei do senhor que sentou ao ao meu lado
no avião. Ele estava com sua esposa e me perguntou várias coisas, como por
exemplo, o que tinha feito eu vir para a Australia, porque eu escolhi a
Australia, porque Sydney, onde iria morar, porque escolhi Manly, o que eu fazia
no Brasil, quais tipos de clientes eu atendia, qual a minha rotina de trabalho,
etc. <u>Meu sentimento era que eu estava sendo entrevistada por mim!</u> As
perguntas não sessavam nunca! Mas por
outro lado eu estava treinando o meu inglês e a imersão com a língua tinha
acabado de começar ali dentro do avião. Quando pousamos, ele deixou seu cartão
e pediu para eu ligar na segunda semana e conversar sobre trabalho. E eu
havia esquecido! Estava pensando em trabalhos que exigem grande força física
quando Deus tinha separado outra coisa que pela minha mente limitada ou pela
baixa auto-estima de chegar num lugar desconhecido e não entender o sotaque tinha me sucumbido. E de
repente eu havia perdido o foco do que eu sabia fazer, pois afinal de contas,
quem iria me contratar se nem no telefone eu conseguia falar! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Bem,
apenas para “ticar” mais um item da minha lista de “find a job”, liguei para o
senhor que pediu para eu ir em seu escritório. Depois da aula de inglês compareci mas ele não estava lá. Voltei com raiva para a City pois queria
participar de um workshop que ensinava a carregar pratos para a vaga de
waitress. No caminho ele me ligou e falou para encontrar ele na City. Ainda
pensei: “-caramba, fui até lá para falar com ele e justamente agora que irá começar o workshop ele quer falar comigo? Que perda de tempo!” Enfim... eu fui falar com ele. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">O
senhor fez mais um tantão de perguntas e para a minha grande surpresa, ele pediu
para que eu começasse no outro dia a trabalhar com ele na área de marketing, em
um período de experiência. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Quando
saí da entrevista eram 4 horas da tarde em Sydney e 3 horas da manhã no Brasil
(14 horas de diferença)! Eu queria ligar para todo mundo do Brasil para contar
esta felicidade mas todos estavam dormindo!!! Nesta hora o fuso pesa e não
posso falar com quem eu quero na hora que eu quero! Preciso me programar para falar com a família e
amigos e alguém precisa abnegar para ficar até tarde ou acordar de madrugada. Passei
a tarde com isso entalado e fui na agencia para contar para alguém, pois eu
mesma não estava acreditando!<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Estou
feliz mas confesso que também estou um com medo danado ao mesmo tempo de não
ser capaz de realizar alguma tarefa por conta da língua. Mas o medo é algo que
me move e faz ser dependente de Deus.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Posso
dizer com todas as letras que não fui responsável por sentar ao lado do diretor da
empresa e de ele estar precisando de alguém na área de marketing e em 2 semanas já ter encontrado um trabalho na área.. </span><span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , sans-serif; font-size: 10pt; line-height: 13.65pt;">O trabalho
não só bateu a minha porta como caiu do céu enquanto estava no avião. Não é um
mérito meu e sim do Pai que tem olhado por mim desde o dia que nasci. E o que Ele dá é perfeito e sempre muito mais do que imaginamos ou merecemos.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; line-height: 13.65pt;">
<span style="color: #474b4e; font-family: "helvetica" , "sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt;">Então,
não fui eu que consegui o trabalho na Australia, mas Deus, o pai amoroso que a
todos atende, providenciou em meu lugar.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.comtag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2954798134778139127.post-71077401944379215682014-03-19T04:34:00.003-07:002015-12-09T14:36:40.055-08:00Hoje eu Chorei<div class="MsoNormal">
Hoje eu chorei. De raiva, e muita. Entrei na sala de aula toda orgulhosa por ter feito o teste de
inglês e ser selecionada para a turma do Upper Intermediate, mas quando o
professor começou a misturar todas as conjugações do passado ao mesmo tempo (past
simple, past continuous, past perfect simple e past perfect continuous) comecei
até a esquecer o que era a conjugação mais básica e travei. Errei todos os
exercícios passados em sala. Quanto mais ele falava mais confusa a minha mente
ficava e de repente parecia que ele tinha mudado de língua e estava falando
Tailandês! Simplesmente meu cérebro deu PT.</div>
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<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A única coisa que passava pela minha mente era sair
correndo, chorando e gritando bem alto por toda a Sydney e arrancar os fios de
cabelo que restam nesta careca. E o mínimo que consegui fazer para conter todo
esse impulso animal que nem sabia de onde estava vindo foi abaixar a cabeça e
deixar uma lágrima escorrer pelo meu rosto e cair sobre o livro. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Esta lágrima foi o símbolo do quão difícil poderia ser esta experiência
aqui na Australia e que a onda estava só levantando a crista.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A lágrima me mostrou o quanto sou frágil apesar dos 35 anos
na cara e não conseguir controlar um sentimento de raiva.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
A lágrima me lembrou quantas vezes já chorei por não
compreender o que estava sendo explicado numa aula de flauta, harmonia, matemática
ou outra qualquer.<o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
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Mostrou o quanto estou suscetível ao sentimento de me sentir
impotente, pois lá no âmago da minha alma corrupta, eu quero a potência de viver
o ideal que não existe, a perfeição divina almejada inclusive pelo mais
terrível dos seres. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostrou que aqui em Manly não são tudo <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2014/03/manly-primeira-impressao.html" target="_blank">flores e cores</a>, mas que terei que enfrentar dificuldades como qualquer
outra pessoa e não é porque eu tenha esperança que tudo dará certo que
realmente as coisas darão certo, pois eu realmente não tenho como prever o meu
futuro.<o:p></o:p><br />
<br />
Mostrou que muita gente ao meu redor pode estar passando por algum momento muito pior e precisando de um ombro amigo.<br />
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostrou que apesar de eu não ter o domínio sobre as coisas e
saber que um Ser maior rege todo o universo, eu possa ser negligente e cruzar
os meus braços esperando o milagre cair do céu. E que talvez eu tenha que parar
de tirar foto no Ferry e estudar nos 30 minutos de ida e vinda para a City,
pois isso poderá me ajudar a transformar o Tailandês no Inglês. <o:p></o:p></div>
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Mostrou que preciso depender mais deste Ser superior que
tudo vê, pois só Ele irá me acalmar e trazer o conforto que minha alma precisa.
Mostrou que uma lágrima é apenas uma lágrima e não se compara com aquele mar
imenso que atravesso todos os dias. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Mostrou que o mesmo Deus que acalmou a tempestade enquanto
Jesus estava no barco com seus discípulos, é o Deus que enxugará esta pequena gota
e dirá para eu mergulhar nesta grande onda dizendo <a href="http://www.saramuller.blogspot.com.au/2014/02/sonhei-com-deus.html" target="_blank">“Vai que estou aqui pertinho”. </a><o:p></o:p></div>
Sara Müllerhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04681665890645916272noreply@blogger.com