Idul Fitri, the end of Ramadan, fell in early May this year so everyone had another week of holidays. Australia had recently opened their borders to tourists and we decided it was the perfect time to head down under again!
Unfortunately, the direct flight from Jakarta to Perth hasn't started up again, but there were flights from Bali. The kids had always wanted to see the international terminal there and with only 6 flights a day, it was pretty quiet. Almost everything was still closed but it was fun for a change.
Ben found a great ipad holder on the Jetstar flight. Another bonus of flying Jetstar - we had vouchers from a trip that cancelled two years ago and didn't think we would ever get the chance to use them!
Welcome to Australia!! I don't think any place in the world has bluer skies.
We landed in Perth, loaded up our rental car, and drove 3 1/2 hours south to Margaret River. It was well past dark when we arrived so we didn't get any idea of what things looked like around our house, but Alex was thrilled to be in the first world again and drink straight from the tap.
We were all pretty excited for this weather! I love summer but it's nice to get a change now and then.
When we woke up and opened the curtains, there was no doubt that we'd chosen a pretty awesome house in Prevelly.
The porch upstairs was awesome. Views straight out onto the main surf break at Margaret River, so Matt was more than happy.
I had no complaints about my morning coffee view or the fact that I needed to wear fuzzy socks.
We made 3 trips to the grocery store to enjoy all the fresh food and delicious choices. I was happy to have my Aussie avocado toast, as I was recently introduced to the combination of vegemite and avocados.
The gardens around the house were really beautiful. The family that owns this place had put so much thought and work into everything and it was a really perfect vacation home.
Even the bird bath was entertaining. A ringneck parrot took a long and noisy bath first thing.
Sadly, there was a pretty massive bush fire last year that burned a significant portion of national forest and the cave we were hoping to visit was closed. The entire entrance was burned. We chose Giants cave instead and found a great adventure.
We didn't realize that self-guided meant you get a headlamp and a path, and you're entirely on your own in the dark cave. These two guys had a blast.
The fire came through the mouth of this cave but didn't destroy everything.
Inside, we had the cave entirely to ourselves and spent plenty of time exploring and admiring the scenery.
It was definitely the most physically challenging cave we've ever visited. There were tight ladders and places we had to squeeze past one another.
We had to climb one section with just a rope for support.
There was even some bouldering at the end. Alex didn't want to be done!
Next stop was Cape Mentelle winery. One of the best things about Margaret River is just driving around and sampling wines, cheese, chocolate, yogurt, and jerky. And enjoying the wildlife outdoors at each stop.
The boys enjoyed the fresh air and sunshine!
It was wonderful being walking distance to the beach as well. The sunrises and sunsets are magical.
My first flat white was a real treat as well.
This was my favorite sunset. Everything about the evening was just perfect!
The best part about our trip was celebrating our 20th anniversary! It's amazing how quickly the years have gone and it was special having the kids there with us to celebrate, too. Matt found a 2002 Cabernet that was likely harvested right around the time we were making our vows. We couldn't have picked a better place to enjoy it.
We spent our last night in Perth and went to a nice dinner at C restaurant downtown.
We had coached the boys on how to behave at a nice dinner and they were such gentlemen!
This was a really memorable dinner. We couldn't be more thankful for one another and the two boys we've been given the privilege to raise.
20 years!
7 addresses in 4 countries. Can't wait to see where the next 20 years take us....
