Holidays in Australia

“Just like the song goes, ‘I still call Australia home.’ And truly, being home with my family for the festive season always holds a special charm. There’s something about this time of year that makes every moment spent with loved ones even more precious. This year, it felt even more poignant as my dad celebrated his 91st birthday. Each year I get to spend with him feels like a priceless gift, a bonus that I cherish deeply.

The past six months had me living and journeying across Asia, an experience filled with adventure and new culinary explorations. However, this meant a significant shift in my diet – I had practically eliminated red meat, bread, and processed foods. So, returning to the familiar comforts of Western cuisine was a refreshing change. I found myself craving the very things I had left behind.

Our family reunion happened in Mandurah, a cozy and lively seaside town about an hour’s drive from Perth. It’s a special place for us because my sister lives and works there. We rented a little villa, which was just right for our Christmas get-together. My dad loves fishing, and Mandurah was perfect for that. Fishing there is something we both enjoy a lot. It was great just throwing our lines into the calm water as the sun went down. Mandurah, with its pretty sights and relaxed feel, had everything we needed. We spent seven days there, just chilling out and having a good time with the family. The town has lots of things to do on the water, like easy-going boat trips and fun dolphin watching.

But, as they say, all good things must come to an end. The reality of life beckoned, and we left the sandy beaches of Mandurah to return to Perth. I found myself setting up camp once again on my dad’s front lawn, borrowing my friend’s camper. It felt strangely comforting to be back in this familiar setting, surrounded by the usual chores and routines of being home, even if it was just for a short while.

Catching up with old friends was undoubtedly the highlight of my stay. There’s something about reconnecting with people who’ve known you for ages – it’s like slipping into a comfortable pair of shoes. We shared meals and laughs, reminiscing about old times and making new memories. These moments were special to me, a reminder of the enduring bonds of friendship.

Then came the whirlwind of appointments – the doctor, the dentist, the mechanic, and so on. It was a race against time to tick off everything on my to-do list before my stay in Perth came to an end. Each task, mundane as it might have seemed, was tinged with a sense of nostalgia. It’s interesting how even the most routine activities can feel different, almost novel when you’ve been away for a while.

In retrospect, this holiday season was a blend of the old and the new, of familiar comforts and fresh experiences. As I look back, I realize how these moments with family and friends, set against the backdrop of a sunny Australian summer, are what I’ll carry with me as I continue my travels. It’s these snapshots of life – fishing with dad, laughing with friends, and relishing the comfort of home-cooked meals – that remind me no matter where I go, Australia will always be home.” Love MyLifestyle

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