Sydney is a fine city, but it remains a city, and cities are places that must be left behind when one wishes to enter the realm of the archetypal mythic road adventure. Don’t worry. You will arrive in Sydney at a later date in true adventure style. Right now it is important you avoid the prescribed backpacker’s Australian holiday track, which you are already dangerously close to buying into.
Good move. I knew you had it in you. So, we are getting off this northbound train at Wahroonga (of all places!). Next, we must approach a local to direct us to the highway heading north to Newcastle. Newcastle is not necessarily our destination; it is merely the next major landmark heading north!
Hope you packed wisely, because we have about a one kilometre hike to the highway and…look at this! You have been in Australia for less than two hours, and already your blood is pumping, your lungs are enjoying the fresh air after the long flight, and your stomach is a little nervous looking at this busy freeway onramp. Can I really walk down this busy onramp, turn to face these oncoming cars, hold my thumb out, and expect to experience a grand sense of adventure? You got it, doc. You have done well up to now. There’s no turning back. Trust in something bigger and ultimately benevolent, for your Australian cultural adventure begins…now.
That’s more than enough specific prescription for now, folks. As far as hotspots and must-go places in Oz, your magic carpet will find its own way to beauty. But, just in case: along the east coast you are hitching along I recommend the Bellingen/Coffs Harbour area for a stopover. Northern New South Wales (Byron Bay, Nimbin, etc…) may not be missed, for their refreshing alternative flavours – check out the Channon Markets when in the Byron area for a great day out. The Gold Coast is a write-off. No adventures there, but further north into Queensland, don’t miss Fraser Island.
Enough of this: you really will conjure you own magic. It’s just the way things work when you lay yourself upon the wings of the wind.
I realize this approach to travel will not appeal to everyone. But I never planned to write for everyone. Those of you who find a resonance here know who you are and I salute you.
Happy Trails!
