Perth & WA Chapter 3 (WA National Parks)
Good Morning Leederville! :D
Thanks to Wawa, we had a good night sleep. Leederville is such a subtle town. (Click here to read our story on Fremantle the day before!)
That morning of 3rd October 2016, we get ready to go back to Fremantle. Why? Because we rent our car with Avis and in our form confirmation, the pick up place is Avis Fremantle. So yes. James and Wawa send us to Fremantle from Leederville. It was around 20-30 minutes as he drove quite fast, haha. Maybe that's how Aussie drive?
kikiki. :P
Along the way, we passed by Scarborough beach. But it was closed to public due to sharks. Okay this is an important things to know. TIPS: Australia is known for shark attacks, not always but sometimes that happened especially to surfers. From what i read, the sharks sometimes think the surf board is a fish bcos of its shape. Most sharks run from their habitat due to pollution and shark-fishing by fishermen, motivated by the shark-fin industry. So, please say no to Shark Fin soup or any shark related products, it's just not worth it. So, if you are visiting Australia especially the beaches, be careful. If the authority closed the beach due to shark sightings/attack, do not go near that beach, avoid it. Until it is announced safe again.
We reached Avis Fremantle at Henderson St. around 8.05AM. We were supposed to pickup the car around 8.00-8.30AM 3rd Oct. So we were just in time. Before we go in Avis, we got our stuff from Wawa's car. We did
left a few things in her house because we plan to go back there before we fly back to KL. Thank you again Wawawon, rindu kat dia tau! bahagia naw.
We got into Avis and the guy checked my license and confirmation form. He said my birth date out loud 'Oh 3rd Nov 19XX, what a great number!' . Meh, u hv to say it out loud is it. Now everyone know my age, hihi.
He asked us whether we want the LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) insurance for around 30AUD per day, which will cover the cost even for major damage, which limits us to pay only around 300 AUD should we involved in an accident. We agreed to take it. It was actually with insurance, this is like the add ons to limit the cost. So, with the insurance and GPS rent (Yes u need this unless u have mobile data, u can use waze), total cost for our car rental for 3rd & 4th Oct (2 days) including the tax is 205 AUD. If without the LDW is 130AUD. TIPS: Avis is one of the most reliable car rent service. Driving is the easiest way to explore Western Australia. Don't forget the GPS.
Once the documents done, he took us to the car. I think all the cars in that carpark area belongs to Avis, wow. From my booking, i actually choose Hyundai 120 or similar, pretty much a compact car. But Avis gave me a big orange car! I am not sure what is the brand, but it have a lion logo. I was like 'how am is supposed to drive this, i never drive a car this big, my car is just Perodua Viva'.
He gave us the key, asked us to look around the car first to ensure no damage and said he will be waiting at the gate. I really want Sarah to drive but because it is my license, so i need to drive first. So i embrace my inner strength, got into the driver seat and be ready!. But then, idk how to start the car la wei, hahahahahaiii!. It have this weird key to unlock and push a button. Syl try this and that, after few minutes we learned how to start it. It is simple but seem so complicated cos we don't know a thing bout this car. Luckily it is an auto car, i cannot drive stick!.
I drive slowly to the gate, u have no idea how weird i feel driving it. Slowly i got out and into the road, roundbout and i got confused whether to stop or not bla bla. haish huhu, hey but at least i got that experience hoccay!
We stopped at a 7eleven near there to switch driver!. Sarah will drive. Syl can't drive cos Australia like Malaysia drive on the right hand side, where France drive on the left. Before we start our journey to explore Western Australia, we decided to buy some breakfast from 7eleven. If you guys read my last entry i did mentioned about how to get cheap coffee in Perth. Well, 7 eleven is the answer!. TIPS: U can get fresh coffee from the machine here (7E) for just 1AUD, regular cup!. Oh yes!. Black, latte anything? Everything is available for 1AUD. Comes with the coffee is a package where u can buy some selected breads with 2 AUD! . So yes, you won't have to spend so much on breakfast anymore, problem solved! :D
I bought a cup of coffee with a coconut bread. Sarah took my place as a driver, hihi and off we go to our first destination on wheels, Yanchep National Park!
The drive was via the scenic Indian Ocean road (state route 71 & 60) passing by some beautiful beaches like Leighton, Cottlesloe and Scarborough. I think Leighton is quite a high-end area, lots of big and modern houses here.
Sarah got comfy, turn on the radio, got her jam on and bam, she owned the car, hihihi! . The driving was smooth, road condition is great and we follow the speed limit, i remind her all the time. TIPS: If possible, check the road to take via google maps first, screenshot it. Don't rely on GPS 100%. While driving, follow the speed limit as you can get speed trap and you don't wanna pay extra more from what u already have.
We missed the turn at first, but we did a U-Turn and we reached Yanchep National Park, yeayy!. The drive from Fremantle is around an hour. Yanchep is a beautiful park. We also saw bunch of kids here at the entrance of the park. TIPS: At the entrance, there will be a guard. The parking fee is 12AUD per car, and the guard will give you a free map as well and trust me it is really important this map, to guide you. Keep this ticket as it can be used again to enter other Parks around Western Australia, so you won't need to pay twice.
The road leads to a swamp in the center. Purrrfect for a nature getaway u know. We start wandering around the park. TIPS: Yanchep is a perfect spot if you want to do picnic and get a chance to meet the wild kangaroos and koalas. It is also famous for it's caves.
We walk into a small path, like a scene from the Hobbit movie, lol The Shire. It was quite a walk, cos its kinda lead to nowhere. Luckily, we got a map. So remember, always bring that map cos this park is huge. U can plan your trail well. This trail we took will lead us circling around the lake, so we decided to turn back.
We start walking on the main road, easier. Syl can read the map better than both of us, so yes!. Along the way we saw a family of ducks, hiihihi. So cute. Syl said the park got a lot of eucalyptus tree, which is one of the main food for koalas.
We passed by a cafe (i think) or maybe a golf club with lots of lavenders on its garden! I love lavender!.
Further up, we saw the sign, Koalas!! . But as we were walking, we heard some sound in the bushes. Guess what, it was wild kangaroos! Yes, some were even with young joey (Joey is the term for baby kangaroo on its mum's pouch).
It was soo satisfying to see the wild kangaroo, i've no words for it. Yanchep is totally worth the walk! . You can see the video below! P/S please ignore my horrific voice.
We walked further to see the next magnificent creature, the koalas. We passed by a 'camp' named Wangi Mia. Hihi, i guess it's the aboriginal word. But in Malay, Wangi means scent and Mia is a women name. Weird huh?. Oh well, there's no one there btw.
We see the Koala entrance on our right side. They actually have a parking space here means u can drive directly to this side of the park, meh?. Never mind we enjoyed our walk. The koala trail is a boardwalk, so it is not that big. At first i don't see any koalas, all i see is branches and poles here and there.
Then, I saw this guy showing his son 'u see there, that's a koala' . And then, yes i see it! .Most of em were sleeping, as koalas always do. Btw, they are always asleep because of the eucalyptus leaves, it makes em sleepy. It slows their metabolic rate, minimizes energy requirements. Koalas also sleep somewhere between 18 and 22 hours each day in order to conserve energy. TIPS: Please be silent, respect the nature, it is not a place to jump and laugh.
They have facts and infos on koala written on boards at this park, so while watching the koala, you can learn about em too. I was happy to see them here :).
We then walked back to our car following the path on the map, oh they have toilets here. So better go before you start driving again. We wanna go to see the caves, but we don't have much time. Entrance to the caves, the Crystal cave to be exact is around 11AUD if im not mistaken. If you have time and love exploring caves , put aside some time and money for it!.
We head back on the road, Indian Ocean Drive route 60 to our next destination, where? The infamous Lancelin Sand Dunes! .
The drive to Lancelin was around 1 hour 30minutes using route 60. We passed by some very interesting views like farms and sheeps. TIPS: Driving in western Australia can really be enjoyable. so take this chance to explore it! But one thing u should know, there is lots of bugs on the road as well. As you drive it will hit the windows, so make sure u clean it!. (Sarah said on vid below, ada binatang terbang2, kiki)
We also saw some kangaroos got ran over and died on the side of the road. Road kills is real for Australian wildlife and it is really a sad thing to see :( .
Before we arrived at the sand dunes we will drive via Gingin road. Over here there is one general store called 'Have a Chat General Store' with a big Lucky 7 logo. This is one of the place you can rent the sand board, Why sand board? Oh well Lancelin Sand Dunes is known for several activities. One of it is Sandboarding! TIPS: Sandboard can be rent here or near the entrance of the dunes, but i would strongly recommend to rent here as it is easier to find and you have various choices (sizes).
We stopped at this store. I asked the store owner for the board and she happily assisted us and explained about the boards. You can choose between the boards that have foot straps or not. The one that doesn't have the straps is bigger and it is for u to sit. The rent is 20AUD for 2 hours and the deposit is 50AUD (you
will get back upon returning the board). TIPS: We choose the one with foot straps as u can also sit on it, so its pretty much like 2 in 1. Rent just 1 board for 2-3 people, save the cost.
As soon as it settled, we got back on the road. The store owner also give us a wax and a free map on how to get there from the store, yassss!. After around 10 minutes of driving and one wrong turn (hihihi) we arrived at the Lancelin Sand Dunes!.
The moment we arrived, we heard the motorbike sounds going out of there. I is also one of the thing u can try here, beside 4WD adventure and surfing!. The parking is free tho, big grin :). I bring my jacket cos i was afraid its gonna get cold, oh well it didnt.
This place is huge! sands as the eyes can see. Syl is our board carier, hihihi. He didn't wanna try the sand boarding, he said it looks not interesting. Meh, let him be, me and Sarah will have great time trying it! :D
We tried at low area first. Sarah tried first, and at first it didn't move at all. Like that board just stuck there. That is where u use the wax. So Sarah put the wax and of course the first trial is recorded, hahaha. She fell sliding down the sands like this huge ball of cactus, hiks :p.
Next, I tried, skinny me who is very lightweight. I was not ready when i step on the board, and it slide down so fast!, i fell rolling down with only 1 foot straps on the board, sigh!. TIPS: Put the wax on the bottom of the board a lil at first trial, hold the board, step on it and it will slide, do not jump directly.
We then tried at a more higher sand hill, berani tak uols?. But our 2nd and 3rd attempts was fun as we know how to control the board. One time the board didn't move, so Syl pushed me down, heyyy how dare you, hahaha. So, u gotta keep trying. But honestly, it was very tiring as u need to climb back up and control the board and also u literally eat the sands, sandwich anyone?.
Anyway, it was a good fun experience to slide down the white sands! Lancelin is not just a sand dunes, it is also a beach. We walked to the Lancelin beach, looks like its near but nope, quite a walk and the sands just got into my shoes my shawls, hmm.
The wind was quite strong, wear sunglasses to avoid the sands got into your eyes. The beach was beautiful as the color of the water is turquoise. Of course our mission was to take a good pic, well for me and Sarah. Syl was walking along the beach, just don't get ur socks wet again! :D
It was almost 2 hours, so we walked back to the car. But we stopped for few times, why? a detour cos Syl found some old coins (which turned out just crusty australian coins) . He is a coin freak hihi, so he was soo happy he found it. He said he is lucky now to have me around as he always found some coins, aww so
sweet kan, tak pasal <3 . :p
We reached the car, first thing first, get rid of the sands! . We drove back to the Lucky 7 store in Gingin Road. I gave back the board and the balance of the wax. The lady was like 'ah you still have the wax, good girl'. So i guess, most people just use it till finish maybe, hmm. I get back my deposit and we continued our journey on Western Australia.
So where to next? The Pinnacles Discovery! All the way to Nambung National Park yall. We proceed driving via route 60 Indian Ocean drive, passing by more white sands. The drive was around 1 hour to Pinnacles drive.
You will see the sigboard of Nambung National Park here. Btw, the Pinnacles discovery is located in the Nambung National Park. If you have more time, you can also visit other parts of this huge national park.
We reached the entrance, and remember the 12AUD ticket/car for other National Park can be used here within the same day. So we showed the tix, and voilla, welcome to Pinnacles. It was already late afternoon but it was still packed with people.
We starts our walk from the paved trail near the carpark and made our way according to the trail. TIPS: The desert view trail is just around 1KM, so i think for those who don't prefer to walk a lot, you can use this trail. You can also drive as there is also the drive trail, but we prefer walking, There is also a gallery here but it was already closed when we came.
We first reached the viewing area, most ppl who dont prefer to walk on the yellow sand sit here. But of course, we wont. We got down and walk to see the limestone closely. It is called 'Pinnacles discovery' because the limestone was discovered by researchers here. It was sculpted by acidic ground water beneath
the dunes, it was under water previously. Then sculpted more by wind. Impressive ay?
We headed to the bigger limestone cos the small one is like 'meh'. hihihi. As we were walking, i notice there were lots of flies around. Of course the area is well maintained and clean. Then i learned that the flies actually live here, its their habitat! huh, thats something. That's not all yall, Syl sweater attracted the flies more! TIPS: They (the flies) are attracted to dark color shirts, so avoid wearing dark blue or black to The Pinnacles!
The pictures we took is very nice, cos the sand is yellow with the limestone standing tall while the sky is blue, wow purrrfect! . Narcisistic tips - to have good pics, try to go where there is less people and also car. As there is lots of car parking inside (the drive trail i told ya, remember?). Do not destroy or
vandalize the pinnacles or try to bring it back with you. It is prohibited.
We then leave the Pinnacles and the flies that love Syl so much, hihihi :p. We continued our journey to the town of Cervantes, where we will stay a night. We booked via booking.com for Cervantes Lodge. I think if you read in most blogs, this accommodation is one of the most talked about. Cos there aint much hostels/hotels in Cervantes. It's pretty much a pit stop for people exploring Western Australia.
It was around 30 minutes drive to Cervantes town, we did got lost at a few turns in the small town itself cos we didn't see the 'Cervantes Lodge' sign. The town is so small, i think the population maybe just around 100 people, lol.
TIPS: You can also visit Lake Thetis and The Stromatolites if you have time in the morning as it will be visible. It is estimated the lake became isolated from the sea about 4800 years ago when sea levels dropped and coastal dunes formed around the Lake. The lake is one of only a few places in the world with living marine stromatolites, or 'Living fossils'. Our schedule was already pack, so we had to skipped this place, sad.
We got in, the car park is free btw. The owner will come when u ring the bell at the counter. What weird was, the booking is under my name, but he showed me the confirmation with Syl name on it. I guess maybe he only know how to spell that name, hahaha lol.
We checked in and get some rest. This time we got our 4 beds room, yeay!. TIPS: The downside is Cervantes Lodge doesnt provide free wifi, mmhmm yes this area is 1950's. U have to pay for wifi, 3AUD per hour i think. Of course we didnt take it.
The room and surrounding is clean. The owner showed us the kitchen and bathroom, it was good, well maintained. He said 'i advise you to use the kitchen now if u want cos there is a large group of ppl checking in as well tonight'. Is it gonna be Pirates again? Hakkh!
We decided to go out to have some dinner first. Sarah was like 'it looks like ghost town, mengusik ke uol, hihi'. We drove to the 'center', about 5 min from the lodge. There is some shops and convenient stores here.
We stopped at Tavern. We got in and look at the menu, my oh my it was expensive. I mean, for a town this small, the price is so over the top. So nope, we walked out and drive to another place opposite it, a Burger place. The price is a bit okay, expensive still, but still affordable. Fish burgers is my choice. But if u want ketchup, gotta add on another 50cent, like whattt. ayooo lah! teruk naw.
While we were eating, there was this drunk guy keep on smiling viciously at us, oh dear. But he didn't do anything, maybe cos Syl is with us. We were talking about details like age and all, i prefer to not say too much and Syl was like 'but i have the right to know'. hihi yes yessssss i know Sayang. :)
Before we go back to the lodge, we stopped at a convenient store. I wanna buy some coffee for tomorrow as all of u know i need it, its like my battery, hiks. But there were no one at the counter, maybe they expect us to just walk out without paying, idk.
I went to a lil pastry shop there and the cashier was actually there. She was working with both counters, pastry and store. Wow this town really need more people!. TIPS: Better buy something to eat as there is nothing here. More better to bring something you can cook to save some money!
While we were paying, there were 2 guys looked at me and Sarah weirdly. Making me feel a bit uncomfortable and unsafe. Maybe they never saw asian before? or any person with color? or just some Australian rednecks.who knows?.
We left the place and get back to Cervantes Lodge. The road was soo dark at night here. We got in and there was lots of people in the kitchen, as the owner said before. They were Japanese backpackers. Not like Pirates, they were calm and not loud, phew!.
First thing first, i need a shower. The shower just have curtains, mmhmm. Luckily we were with mostly Japanese group, so they have manners. Imagine if drunk ppl just opened the shower curtains like that while you are in the shower, scary.
Our housemate was a Japanese guy named Sasa, from the group. We talked a lot with Sasa that night. He was surprised with our English level, although for me ours is just average. But i guess compared to the Japanese, maybe yes, we are a bit better. But i wanna speak Nippon too!. He did went to Malaysia before and love our multiracial-cultural community. Well yes, but the politicians is trying to destroy that, grrr.
He also told us that he teach at Papua New Guinea for the sake of experience and to help people. Basically he is a good guy, and also i can see that he is interested in Sarah as he wanted to stay connected with her on fb, mmmhmm. We were tired and he got back to his group in the kitchen to drink some Sake. Sleep time! (luckily the bed is comfy enough).
So see ya tomorrow as we're gonna meet some Roos!
Thanks to Wawa, we had a good night sleep. Leederville is such a subtle town. (Click here to read our story on Fremantle the day before!)
That morning of 3rd October 2016, we get ready to go back to Fremantle. Why? Because we rent our car with Avis and in our form confirmation, the pick up place is Avis Fremantle. So yes. James and Wawa send us to Fremantle from Leederville. It was around 20-30 minutes as he drove quite fast, haha. Maybe that's how Aussie drive?
kikiki. :P
 |
| Our wefie in front of Avis! |
Along the way, we passed by Scarborough beach. But it was closed to public due to sharks. Okay this is an important things to know. TIPS: Australia is known for shark attacks, not always but sometimes that happened especially to surfers. From what i read, the sharks sometimes think the surf board is a fish bcos of its shape. Most sharks run from their habitat due to pollution and shark-fishing by fishermen, motivated by the shark-fin industry. So, please say no to Shark Fin soup or any shark related products, it's just not worth it. So, if you are visiting Australia especially the beaches, be careful. If the authority closed the beach due to shark sightings/attack, do not go near that beach, avoid it. Until it is announced safe again.
We reached Avis Fremantle at Henderson St. around 8.05AM. We were supposed to pickup the car around 8.00-8.30AM 3rd Oct. So we were just in time. Before we go in Avis, we got our stuff from Wawa's car. We did
left a few things in her house because we plan to go back there before we fly back to KL. Thank you again Wawawon, rindu kat dia tau! bahagia naw.
 |
| Avis Fremantle, you can book from https://www.vroomvroomvroom.com.au/ |
We got into Avis and the guy checked my license and confirmation form. He said my birth date out loud 'Oh 3rd Nov 19XX, what a great number!' . Meh, u hv to say it out loud is it. Now everyone know my age, hihi.
He asked us whether we want the LDW (Loss Damage Waiver) insurance for around 30AUD per day, which will cover the cost even for major damage, which limits us to pay only around 300 AUD should we involved in an accident. We agreed to take it. It was actually with insurance, this is like the add ons to limit the cost. So, with the insurance and GPS rent (Yes u need this unless u have mobile data, u can use waze), total cost for our car rental for 3rd & 4th Oct (2 days) including the tax is 205 AUD. If without the LDW is 130AUD. TIPS: Avis is one of the most reliable car rent service. Driving is the easiest way to explore Western Australia. Don't forget the GPS.
Once the documents done, he took us to the car. I think all the cars in that carpark area belongs to Avis, wow. From my booking, i actually choose Hyundai 120 or similar, pretty much a compact car. But Avis gave me a big orange car! I am not sure what is the brand, but it have a lion logo. I was like 'how am is supposed to drive this, i never drive a car this big, my car is just Perodua Viva'.
He gave us the key, asked us to look around the car first to ensure no damage and said he will be waiting at the gate. I really want Sarah to drive but because it is my license, so i need to drive first. So i embrace my inner strength, got into the driver seat and be ready!. But then, idk how to start the car la wei, hahahahahaiii!. It have this weird key to unlock and push a button. Syl try this and that, after few minutes we learned how to start it. It is simple but seem so complicated cos we don't know a thing bout this car. Luckily it is an auto car, i cannot drive stick!.
I drive slowly to the gate, u have no idea how weird i feel driving it. Slowly i got out and into the road, roundbout and i got confused whether to stop or not bla bla. haish huhu, hey but at least i got that experience hoccay!
 |
| Coffee!! |
We stopped at a 7eleven near there to switch driver!. Sarah will drive. Syl can't drive cos Australia like Malaysia drive on the right hand side, where France drive on the left. Before we start our journey to explore Western Australia, we decided to buy some breakfast from 7eleven. If you guys read my last entry i did mentioned about how to get cheap coffee in Perth. Well, 7 eleven is the answer!. TIPS: U can get fresh coffee from the machine here (7E) for just 1AUD, regular cup!. Oh yes!. Black, latte anything? Everything is available for 1AUD. Comes with the coffee is a package where u can buy some selected breads with 2 AUD! . So yes, you won't have to spend so much on breakfast anymore, problem solved! :D
 |
| in the car! On the way |
I bought a cup of coffee with a coconut bread. Sarah took my place as a driver, hihi and off we go to our first destination on wheels, Yanchep National Park!
 |
| to Yanchep! |
The drive was via the scenic Indian Ocean road (state route 71 & 60) passing by some beautiful beaches like Leighton, Cottlesloe and Scarborough. I think Leighton is quite a high-end area, lots of big and modern houses here.
Sarah got comfy, turn on the radio, got her jam on and bam, she owned the car, hihihi! . The driving was smooth, road condition is great and we follow the speed limit, i remind her all the time. TIPS: If possible, check the road to take via google maps first, screenshot it. Don't rely on GPS 100%. While driving, follow the speed limit as you can get speed trap and you don't wanna pay extra more from what u already have.
 |
| 16'c that morning! |
We missed the turn at first, but we did a U-Turn and we reached Yanchep National Park, yeayy!. The drive from Fremantle is around an hour. Yanchep is a beautiful park. We also saw bunch of kids here at the entrance of the park. TIPS: At the entrance, there will be a guard. The parking fee is 12AUD per car, and the guard will give you a free map as well and trust me it is really important this map, to guide you. Keep this ticket as it can be used again to enter other Parks around Western Australia, so you won't need to pay twice.
 |
| Surprise! This is our car yall! |
 |
| Walking in Yanchep National Park |
The road leads to a swamp in the center. Purrrfect for a nature getaway u know. We start wandering around the park. TIPS: Yanchep is a perfect spot if you want to do picnic and get a chance to meet the wild kangaroos and koalas. It is also famous for it's caves.
 |
| the lake, and us studying the Yanchep map! |
We walk into a small path, like a scene from the Hobbit movie, lol The Shire. It was quite a walk, cos its kinda lead to nowhere. Luckily, we got a map. So remember, always bring that map cos this park is huge. U can plan your trail well. This trail we took will lead us circling around the lake, so we decided to turn back.
 |
| into the woods! |
We start walking on the main road, easier. Syl can read the map better than both of us, so yes!. Along the way we saw a family of ducks, hiihihi. So cute. Syl said the park got a lot of eucalyptus tree, which is one of the main food for koalas.
 |
| who are you talking to Syl, Eucalyptus? |
We passed by a cafe (i think) or maybe a golf club with lots of lavenders on its garden! I love lavender!.
 |
| Lavenders! |
Further up, we saw the sign, Koalas!! . But as we were walking, we heard some sound in the bushes. Guess what, it was wild kangaroos! Yes, some were even with young joey (Joey is the term for baby kangaroo on its mum's pouch).
 |
| To Koalas! |
It was soo satisfying to see the wild kangaroo, i've no words for it. Yanchep is totally worth the walk! . You can see the video below! P/S please ignore my horrific voice.
 |
| wild kangaroos! |
We walked further to see the next magnificent creature, the koalas. We passed by a 'camp' named Wangi Mia. Hihi, i guess it's the aboriginal word. But in Malay, Wangi means scent and Mia is a women name. Weird huh?. Oh well, there's no one there btw.
 |
| The entrance to the Koalas |
We see the Koala entrance on our right side. They actually have a parking space here means u can drive directly to this side of the park, meh?. Never mind we enjoyed our walk. The koala trail is a boardwalk, so it is not that big. At first i don't see any koalas, all i see is branches and poles here and there.
 |
| Can you see it? |
Then, I saw this guy showing his son 'u see there, that's a koala' . And then, yes i see it! .Most of em were sleeping, as koalas always do. Btw, they are always asleep because of the eucalyptus leaves, it makes em sleepy. It slows their metabolic rate, minimizes energy requirements. Koalas also sleep somewhere between 18 and 22 hours each day in order to conserve energy. TIPS: Please be silent, respect the nature, it is not a place to jump and laugh.
They have facts and infos on koala written on boards at this park, so while watching the koala, you can learn about em too. I was happy to see them here :).
 |
| hey duckies, see ya later! |
We then walked back to our car following the path on the map, oh they have toilets here. So better go before you start driving again. We wanna go to see the caves, but we don't have much time. Entrance to the caves, the Crystal cave to be exact is around 11AUD if im not mistaken. If you have time and love exploring caves , put aside some time and money for it!.
We head back on the road, Indian Ocean Drive route 60 to our next destination, where? The infamous Lancelin Sand Dunes! .
 |
| Lancelin, here we come |
The drive to Lancelin was around 1 hour 30minutes using route 60. We passed by some very interesting views like farms and sheeps. TIPS: Driving in western Australia can really be enjoyable. so take this chance to explore it! But one thing u should know, there is lots of bugs on the road as well. As you drive it will hit the windows, so make sure u clean it!. (Sarah said on vid below, ada binatang terbang2, kiki)
We also saw some kangaroos got ran over and died on the side of the road. Road kills is real for Australian wildlife and it is really a sad thing to see :( .
 |
| See this sign, u stop here. |
Before we arrived at the sand dunes we will drive via Gingin road. Over here there is one general store called 'Have a Chat General Store' with a big Lucky 7 logo. This is one of the place you can rent the sand board, Why sand board? Oh well Lancelin Sand Dunes is known for several activities. One of it is Sandboarding! TIPS: Sandboard can be rent here or near the entrance of the dunes, but i would strongly recommend to rent here as it is easier to find and you have various choices (sizes).
 |
| The Sandboards, straps and no straps |
We stopped at this store. I asked the store owner for the board and she happily assisted us and explained about the boards. You can choose between the boards that have foot straps or not. The one that doesn't have the straps is bigger and it is for u to sit. The rent is 20AUD for 2 hours and the deposit is 50AUD (you
will get back upon returning the board). TIPS: We choose the one with foot straps as u can also sit on it, so its pretty much like 2 in 1. Rent just 1 board for 2-3 people, save the cost.
 |
| we got our map! |
As soon as it settled, we got back on the road. The store owner also give us a wax and a free map on how to get there from the store, yassss!. After around 10 minutes of driving and one wrong turn (hihihi) we arrived at the Lancelin Sand Dunes!.
 |
| welcome to Lancelin! |
The moment we arrived, we heard the motorbike sounds going out of there. I is also one of the thing u can try here, beside 4WD adventure and surfing!. The parking is free tho, big grin :). I bring my jacket cos i was afraid its gonna get cold, oh well it didnt.
 |
| Into the sand dunes! |
This place is huge! sands as the eyes can see. Syl is our board carier, hihihi. He didn't wanna try the sand boarding, he said it looks not interesting. Meh, let him be, me and Sarah will have great time trying it! :D
 |
| our board carier :P |
 |
| Hey yall! |
We tried at low area first. Sarah tried first, and at first it didn't move at all. Like that board just stuck there. That is where u use the wax. So Sarah put the wax and of course the first trial is recorded, hahaha. She fell sliding down the sands like this huge ball of cactus, hiks :p.
 |
| Big cactus ball ;) |
Next, I tried, skinny me who is very lightweight. I was not ready when i step on the board, and it slide down so fast!, i fell rolling down with only 1 foot straps on the board, sigh!. TIPS: Put the wax on the bottom of the board a lil at first trial, hold the board, step on it and it will slide, do not jump directly.
We then tried at a more higher sand hill, berani tak uols?. But our 2nd and 3rd attempts was fun as we know how to control the board. One time the board didn't move, so Syl pushed me down, heyyy how dare you, hahaha. So, u gotta keep trying. But honestly, it was very tiring as u need to climb back up and control the board and also u literally eat the sands, sandwich anyone?.
 |
| cak! |
Anyway, it was a good fun experience to slide down the white sands! Lancelin is not just a sand dunes, it is also a beach. We walked to the Lancelin beach, looks like its near but nope, quite a walk and the sands just got into my shoes my shawls, hmm.
 |
| to the beach! |
The wind was quite strong, wear sunglasses to avoid the sands got into your eyes. The beach was beautiful as the color of the water is turquoise. Of course our mission was to take a good pic, well for me and Sarah. Syl was walking along the beach, just don't get ur socks wet again! :D
 |
| lovely Lancelin Beach |
 |
| Turquoise! |
It was almost 2 hours, so we walked back to the car. But we stopped for few times, why? a detour cos Syl found some old coins (which turned out just crusty australian coins) . He is a coin freak hihi, so he was soo happy he found it. He said he is lucky now to have me around as he always found some coins, aww so
sweet kan, tak pasal <3 . :p
 |
| do i look like a shadow cos im so dark? hahahahahahah |
We reached the car, first thing first, get rid of the sands! . We drove back to the Lucky 7 store in Gingin Road. I gave back the board and the balance of the wax. The lady was like 'ah you still have the wax, good girl'. So i guess, most people just use it till finish maybe, hmm. I get back my deposit and we continued our journey on Western Australia.
So where to next? The Pinnacles Discovery! All the way to Nambung National Park yall. We proceed driving via route 60 Indian Ocean drive, passing by more white sands. The drive was around 1 hour to Pinnacles drive.
You will see the sigboard of Nambung National Park here. Btw, the Pinnacles discovery is located in the Nambung National Park. If you have more time, you can also visit other parts of this huge national park.
We reached the entrance, and remember the 12AUD ticket/car for other National Park can be used here within the same day. So we showed the tix, and voilla, welcome to Pinnacles. It was already late afternoon but it was still packed with people.
 |
| discover Pinnacles |
We starts our walk from the paved trail near the carpark and made our way according to the trail. TIPS: The desert view trail is just around 1KM, so i think for those who don't prefer to walk a lot, you can use this trail. You can also drive as there is also the drive trail, but we prefer walking, There is also a gallery here but it was already closed when we came.
 |
| see ur trails here |
 |
| The cars parked here, drive trail |
We first reached the viewing area, most ppl who dont prefer to walk on the yellow sand sit here. But of course, we wont. We got down and walk to see the limestone closely. It is called 'Pinnacles discovery' because the limestone was discovered by researchers here. It was sculpted by acidic ground water beneath
the dunes, it was under water previously. Then sculpted more by wind. Impressive ay?
 |
| The flies! |
We headed to the bigger limestone cos the small one is like 'meh'. hihihi. As we were walking, i notice there were lots of flies around. Of course the area is well maintained and clean. Then i learned that the flies actually live here, its their habitat! huh, thats something. That's not all yall, Syl sweater attracted the flies more! TIPS: They (the flies) are attracted to dark color shirts, so avoid wearing dark blue or black to The Pinnacles!
 |
| Where flies? where where |
The pictures we took is very nice, cos the sand is yellow with the limestone standing tall while the sky is blue, wow purrrfect! . Narcisistic tips - to have good pics, try to go where there is less people and also car. As there is lots of car parking inside (the drive trail i told ya, remember?). Do not destroy or
vandalize the pinnacles or try to bring it back with you. It is prohibited.
 |
| Pinnacles Version 1 |
 |
| Pinnacles Version 2 :P |
We then leave the Pinnacles and the flies that love Syl so much, hihihi :p. We continued our journey to the town of Cervantes, where we will stay a night. We booked via booking.com for Cervantes Lodge. I think if you read in most blogs, this accommodation is one of the most talked about. Cos there aint much hostels/hotels in Cervantes. It's pretty much a pit stop for people exploring Western Australia.
 |
| To Cervantes! |
It was around 30 minutes drive to Cervantes town, we did got lost at a few turns in the small town itself cos we didn't see the 'Cervantes Lodge' sign. The town is so small, i think the population maybe just around 100 people, lol.
TIPS: You can also visit Lake Thetis and The Stromatolites if you have time in the morning as it will be visible. It is estimated the lake became isolated from the sea about 4800 years ago when sea levels dropped and coastal dunes formed around the Lake. The lake is one of only a few places in the world with living marine stromatolites, or 'Living fossils'. Our schedule was already pack, so we had to skipped this place, sad.
 |
| arrive Cervantes Lodge |
We got in, the car park is free btw. The owner will come when u ring the bell at the counter. What weird was, the booking is under my name, but he showed me the confirmation with Syl name on it. I guess maybe he only know how to spell that name, hahaha lol.
 |
| Cervantes Map |
We checked in and get some rest. This time we got our 4 beds room, yeay!. TIPS: The downside is Cervantes Lodge doesnt provide free wifi, mmhmm yes this area is 1950's. U have to pay for wifi, 3AUD per hour i think. Of course we didnt take it.
 |
| Our room |
The room and surrounding is clean. The owner showed us the kitchen and bathroom, it was good, well maintained. He said 'i advise you to use the kitchen now if u want cos there is a large group of ppl checking in as well tonight'. Is it gonna be Pirates again? Hakkh!
We decided to go out to have some dinner first. Sarah was like 'it looks like ghost town, mengusik ke uol, hihi'. We drove to the 'center', about 5 min from the lodge. There is some shops and convenient stores here.
 |
| The Tavern at Cervantes |
We stopped at Tavern. We got in and look at the menu, my oh my it was expensive. I mean, for a town this small, the price is so over the top. So nope, we walked out and drive to another place opposite it, a Burger place. The price is a bit okay, expensive still, but still affordable. Fish burgers is my choice. But if u want ketchup, gotta add on another 50cent, like whattt. ayooo lah! teruk naw.
While we were eating, there was this drunk guy keep on smiling viciously at us, oh dear. But he didn't do anything, maybe cos Syl is with us. We were talking about details like age and all, i prefer to not say too much and Syl was like 'but i have the right to know'. hihi yes yessssss i know Sayang. :)
 |
| where we stop next |
Before we go back to the lodge, we stopped at a convenient store. I wanna buy some coffee for tomorrow as all of u know i need it, its like my battery, hiks. But there were no one at the counter, maybe they expect us to just walk out without paying, idk.
I went to a lil pastry shop there and the cashier was actually there. She was working with both counters, pastry and store. Wow this town really need more people!. TIPS: Better buy something to eat as there is nothing here. More better to bring something you can cook to save some money!
While we were paying, there were 2 guys looked at me and Sarah weirdly. Making me feel a bit uncomfortable and unsafe. Maybe they never saw asian before? or any person with color? or just some Australian rednecks.who knows?.
We left the place and get back to Cervantes Lodge. The road was soo dark at night here. We got in and there was lots of people in the kitchen, as the owner said before. They were Japanese backpackers. Not like Pirates, they were calm and not loud, phew!.
First thing first, i need a shower. The shower just have curtains, mmhmm. Luckily we were with mostly Japanese group, so they have manners. Imagine if drunk ppl just opened the shower curtains like that while you are in the shower, scary.
 |
| the rooms in the Lodge |
Our housemate was a Japanese guy named Sasa, from the group. We talked a lot with Sasa that night. He was surprised with our English level, although for me ours is just average. But i guess compared to the Japanese, maybe yes, we are a bit better. But i wanna speak Nippon too!. He did went to Malaysia before and love our multiracial-cultural community. Well yes, but the politicians is trying to destroy that, grrr.
He also told us that he teach at Papua New Guinea for the sake of experience and to help people. Basically he is a good guy, and also i can see that he is interested in Sarah as he wanted to stay connected with her on fb, mmmhmm. We were tired and he got back to his group in the kitchen to drink some Sake. Sleep time! (luckily the bed is comfy enough).
So see ya tomorrow as we're gonna meet some Roos!
Comments
Post a Comment