It's been a long, long winter. Though we don't have an extreme weather system and generally have mild, incredibly beautiful winters in Perth, time between boat holidays because of the lower temperatures has been a while...April was the last time we took some 'time out' to float on the high seas. So, with a long weekend upon us, we ventured over to Rottnest Island for some much-needed relaxation.
After a week of rain and cold days and of school camp for Bon in our freezing southwest, the weekend turned on sunshine, cloudless blue skies and enough warmth (34 degrees!) for the tougher members of the family to brave the chilly water that is our constant in WA.
I found my usual pleasure of photographing the bajeebas out of every moment...plus time just doing nothing. The girls spent time
readjusting to each others company bickering, whilst they remembered how to be loving sisters minus any technology... and Dudie? He has no idea how to relax and cleaned the hull of the boat to within an inch of sinking. He's now sick...a few sessions in freezing water, whilst scrubbing microbes off a boat will do that to you...funny that.
The only saving grace for getting Dudie to relax is how early we surrender to the sleep inducing effects of ocean air...bedtime is ridiculously early...toddler time early. The gentle rock and lapping of the sea on a boat is a great sedative.
With early nights come early mornings...I made the girls join me for a couple of long walks... who doesn't want to see views like this?
Walks enjoyed and a hit of tennis...it was then back to time sitting around on the
porch of the floating caravan...sorry... 'deck on the stern of the craft'.
If you are not a 'Boatie' and don't have the delight of bringing your own accommodation with you... these villas (see photo below) are typical of the places to stay on the island. 2 or 3 bedroom, self-contained, a tiny bit grotty, but quite comfortable for a weeks stay. Bring your own...just about everything!!
There is a 'General Store', a yummy Bakery, a few takeaway food shops, a couple of cafes, a pub...and one boutique that is the most ridiculously expensive bathers and kaftan shop I have ever walked into...but it's always busy. Which goes to show who can afford to stay on Rottnest these days. A weeks accommodation in a 3 star villa will set you back just under $2000. Extortion. But...We Perth peeps love it.
Our boat is now our most perfect stay. Whether you stay in a villa or on a boat, Rottnest is just soooo relaxing. It might be something to do with the forced exercise...( bicycle or foot transport only) and the feeling that you earned that glass of wine, beer or GnT at the end of the day.
Thank you Rotto for yet another gorgeous holiday. The girls and I (Dudie not so much) have been reenergized after a busy school term by your turquoise waters and fine, white sand. Much sleep was enjoyed...even on the trip home. Bon was lulled off to sleep sitting upright!
Thinking I may have a new painting idea with this photo...I bought the floaty rings specifically to see if I could work them into a painting....Hmmmm. It might just work.
Off to the Perth Royal Agricultural Show tomorrow...might need another holiday after that!!
Mia x
