Queensland is also called The Sunshine State (it was previously called the Smart State – and I am not kidding) and from what I have seen of it, the place really is blessed with sunshine and miles of lovely beaches to soak it all in. All you need is an abundance of time to explore. I often wish I took more time off to explore and fall in love with the place. To ease into life the Aussie way and enjoy the sun on my face.

A few weeks back, we took a few days off and carted off to – the naturally refreshing Sunshine Coast (sounds like a drink doesn’t it? That is how they market the place). The region between Noosa and Cooloola has everything one would ask for. Picture perfect beaches for surfing and all kinds of water sports, gorgeous sunsets, small laid-back towns with great food, friendly locals who share their favorites, farms supplying some of the freshest produce, the Glasshouse mountains, forests, and ofcourse kangaroos and koalas.

We stayed at Maroochydore and explored the area for 3 days. I often think back and wish I had spent a few more days in the area. It is amazingly relaxing and perfect. We splashed about in the clear waters, built sand castles, heard the kookaburras and saw a pet pig on a leash out for a walk. It is one place I would go back to in a heartbeat. The Sunshine Coast beaches also made me wish I was more adventurous and into water sports.

The local markets that pop up around the area bring the best right to you. The famous Eumundi Markets was totally worth a visit. We spent a lovely fall morning there, sampling produce and just enjoying the lively atmosphere. Food tastes so good when it is fresh. Local strawberries especially were divine. Oh yes there was an abundance of “Made in Indonesia/China” products but once you sift through them you come up with treasures.

We also spent a day at Steve Irwin’s Australia Zoo. To be honest, the zoo was not very impressive. Irwin’s legacy was the only reason we went there. I have seen better zoos but kuttyma had loads of fun. She was fascinated by the cassowaries and the famous crocodile shows at the zoo.

I will leave you with some pictures for the seas and the skies. Under those blue waters are great whites and rays, turtles and reefs that need protection