From Amanda's very early writing (1990s to early 2000s), shared as it was originally written.
Fraser Island
Well, I've found another one! A perfect getaway for a busy couple - the place to recharge your relationship batteries. Fraser Island. I'm sitting by the pool, surrounded by peace , bush, birds and sunshine, sipping on a Marguerita (with real limes) writing this article. Research is a drag but someone has to do it.
I was lucky enough to be invited to speak at a conference here (they have great facilities and staff that treat you so well , you never want to leave!) and because I had heard so much about Fraser Island, but never been there I decided to extend my stay.
Apart from being a world heritage protection area, it's been fantastic! And given me time by myself in a place that inspires renewal. No, I have not gone new age! The trees, the animals and the deep silence of nature seeps into your body here. It renewed my batteries and will make me more patient and tolerant when I return to the rat race. Imagine what it could do for a couple!
The daily four wheel tours take you to gorgeous spots like the 75 mile beach. Yep, 75 miles of white , fine sand that is dotted with fresh water streams that are wonderfully refreshing. And lakes (there are 60) that are spectacular in their beauty and isolation. We swam in one today that was crystal clear, perfect temperature , surrounded by lush green vegetation and could only be reached by a ten minute walk through peaceful forest. It's very refreshing for your soul. And amazingly romantic - especially because you could rent your own four wheel drive and be the only people frolicking in this extraordinary place!
Speaking of relationships, Dave our ranger, should have been a stand up comedian! He was full of exciting bits of information on the fauna and flora and had a wicked sense of humor that demonstrated itself frequently and led to a great sense of camaraderie between the Swiss, Italians, Aussies, Canadians and Japanese on the tour. Once again proving the amazing power of humor in relationships. Particularly groaning at awful jokes which really seems to have a bonding effect on a group!
And.. wait for this.., I heard one of the best ideas for a wedding! One of the couples enjoying the inherent romance of this place, told me they were on their honeymoon. I asked them about their wedding and they told me they made it a surprise. To everyone. They decided to marry on Australia Day so when they invited the folks and friends to a party , everyone assumed it was an Australia Day party.
Lulled into this scheme, people turned up , had drinks and were handed invitations to the marriage of these two, who had disappeared to change into the marriage 'gear'. And then they celebrated their amidst the tears of joy and excitement of their family and friends. And had a wonderful time. Isn't that great?
They wrote their own vows; had no speeches; had no fuss about wedding outfits or who to ask and who had to be there; no family squabbles; no hens or bucks parties and still had all the excitement of anticipation! Without the hassles. It's a variation on the eloping theme.
Some of you may dream of having a traditional wedding with all the trappings , but for many who are on second time around, the thought of all that fuss again is daunting; so I think this is a fantastic alternative - imaginative, fun and exciting, and with the almost unbearable pleasure of anticipation.
And they capped the whole thing off with a week in a place where they could be completely alone in magnificent surroundings. Smart couple!
So the next time you really need a break, to get away from the grime and speed of cities and work, to renew your soul and spirit, or if you are looking for a romantic weekend or honeymoon hideaway investigate this place. And think about different ideas for weddings. A combination of the two is sure to guarantee an unforgettable memory.
PS I have to go now because the margueritas are so good they slur your writing!
