Did You Know
Nimbin is at the centre of Australia cannabis legislation movement that regularly hosts events and workshops for spreading awareness on its medical uses and implications of the government ’ s policies that are arguably counterproductive .
Noosa
A swanky little beach town 2 hours north of Brisbane , Noosa is one destination that wasn ’ t on our list , before we ended up at this swanky soirée the day before our Fraser trip and couldn ’ t help but get oh so charmed , by its niche boutique shops and cafes , turquoise waters and tropical rainforests . Noosa National Park beautifully compliments the shoreline that ’ s showcased at the Noosa lookout . Noosa River further adds to the chic vibe of this resort town with its river side sailing club and cruises . It was apparent that Noosa is a popular holiday destination among the elitist Australian crowds in the region , along with some very popular celebrities having their holiday homes here as well . We hit the exotic Noosa beach , which was lined with posh restaurants with fancy cocktails and oyster spreads .
After watching a couple fly kites along the shoreline for a while , with surfers taking digs on the waves in the backdrop , I decided to take a dip in the warm ocean waters . As soon as I walked into the sea , I felt a sudden sting on both sides of my hip bones . It was strong and wouldn ’ t go . I was certain that I had been stung , but wasn ’ t sure what to do . I made my way to a small Coast guard counter in the fear that I might just die . The coast guard said , “ ah , got stung by a bubbah ?” He gave me a pack of ice and told me “ no biggie !” His words , relieved me , however the sensation was like being constantly electrocuted , and went on for 3-4 hours . Noosa also provides a good destination for paragliding and wind surfing .
Nimbin
We arrived at a small village called Nimbin , south of Gold Coast towards the hinterland . As soon as one enters the market area , it ’ s like a throwback to the seventies with the more familiar Goa vibe which is hard to find in this part of the world . We parked our car to get some lunch at one of the cafes . While walking towards the market vivid with graffiti painted walls , intriguing shops of hemp and hemp products , and various other handicrafts and art , we see a girl with her
Special mention
The highly recommended , world famous
Australian Zoo , founded by the late Crocodile Hunter - Steve Irwin and his family is located in this region . Dedicated to wildlife conservation through research and education , the zoo provides pickup and drop facilities from Gold Coast & Brisbane via air conditioned croc express coaches into an astounding exhibit of mammals , birds and reptiles with entertaining , informative demonstrations making upto a 6 hour long itinerary for an unforgettable world-class wildlife experience .
evidently hippie , not a care in the world persona and attire , approach us . “ Would you girls like some edibles ?” She said . After a second of processing her words , we were quick to understand the cannabis culture and alternative living , life and lifestyle that thrived in his little village , flocked with people in dreadlocks and tie-dye . Selling spreads of cannabis products , sitting under trees , behind cafes , and in every other nook around the tiny market area , the site reminded me of the hilly areas of Himachal Pradesh that are home to many such settlements of Israeli influence .
Nimbin provides an interesting break from the landscapes and culture in the region , and has an infectious vibe that has visitors keep coming back for more . De
( Pictures from Tourism Australia )
february 2017 | destination exotica 21