Category: Review

In a word: Pause

Yes, when you are going at it like a bat out of hell, it might be an idea to take a pause and regroup.

That being a pause as an interruption to an activity.

In music, it’s a mark over a note.

Perhaps it’s a good idea to pause recording a TV show while the ads are on.  Networks don’t like it, but it makes the show make more sense without the distractions of advertisements, sometimes quite inane, or annoying.

What I just said, might give pause to my opposite number in this debate.

Have you been in a conversation, someone says something quite odd, and there’s a pregnant pause?

How did the word pregnant get into the conversation?  That, of course, usually means something significant will follow, but rarely does.  But it can also be a conversation killer where no one says anything.

Is that a wide eye in awe moment?  You did WHAT?

Then there is the word pours, sounds the same but is completely different.

In this case, the man pours water from the bucket on the plants.

Or my brother pours cold water on my plans.  Not literally, but figuratively, making me think twice about whether it would work or not.  Usually not.

Or a confession pours out of a man with a guilty conscience.  AKA sings like a bird.  Don’t you just love these quaint expressions?  It reminded me of a gangster film back in Humphrey Bogart’s day.

It never rains but it pours?  Another expression, when everything goes wrong.  A bit like home renovations really.

Really, it means to flow quickly and in large quantities, ie. rain pours down.

And if that isn’t bad enough, what about paws?

Sounds the same again, but, yes it’s what an animal has as feet, especially cats, dogs, and bears.

One use of it, out of context, of course, is ‘get your paws off me!’

And one rabbit paw might be good luck, but having two rabbit pows, I might win the lottery.

If only….

In a word: Over

It’s over!  What is?  Well, almost anything.

A relationship, a bad day, a friendship, a long, monotonous lecture, and dinner.

It’s basically the light at the end of the tunnel, when it’s not the 6:32 express from Clapton, entering the other end of that same tunnel.

You could go over the top, which means, in one sense, over and above the expected, or way beyond the expected but not in a good way.

You could go over the waterfall in a leaky boat.  Not advisable, but sometimes a possibility, if someone fails to tell you at the end of the rapids there is a waterfall.  Just make sure it’s not the same as Niagara falls.

Still, someone has gone over Niagara in a barrel.

Then we could say that my lodging is over the garage, which simply means someone built it on top of the garage.

Branches of trees quite ofter grow over the roofs of houses, until a severe storm brings them down and suddenly they are in your house, no longer over it.

You can have editorial control over a newspaper

In a fight, the combatants are equally trying to shout over the top of each other

And sometimes, when trying to paint a different picture to what is real, you could say the temperature is sometimes over 40 degrees centigrade when you know for a fact it is usually 56 degrees centigrade.  No need for the literal truth here or no one will come.

Then you could say I came over land, assuming that you took a car, or walked when in actual fact you came by plane.  And yes, the whole flight was, truthfully, over land.

I don’t accept my lot in fife, nor do I want a small lot on which to build my mansion!

But the oddest use of the word over is when we describe, in cricket, the delivery of 6 balls.

I’ve listened to cricket commentary, and aside from trying to pronounce the names of the players, if you were unfamiliar with the game, being told this ball was outside leg stump, one of  several deliveries, the last of which was the end of the over.  If the delivery hit the stumps, it is then a wicket, and the batsman is out.

Wow!

In a word: Light

Yes, I see the lighthouse, what’s it doing all the way out there?  The thing is, these places are sometimes so remote, I start thinking I should rent one for 6 months and then, without any distractions, I’ll get the blasted book finished.

Until there’s a shipwreck, of course!

Light is of course light, duh.  Turn on the switch and let there be light.

Hang on, didn’t someone else say that, millennia ago?  Someone famous?  It’s on the tip of my tongue.

No! It’s not cyanide…

So, whilst we need it to see everything, it has another meaning…

My, that’s a light load your carrying today, which means not very heavy.

Or, that’s a light-coloured jumper, which means pale.

Oh, and did you light the fire?

And, after you light the fire, do you light out to a safe haven in light traffic because really it was arson, and you got a light sentence the last time enabling you to do it again.

If you are trying to rob someone, then it was a kilo light.

And after a long hard struggle, did you light upon the correct answer?

This is not to be confused with another similar word, lite.

It seems this is only used for describing low-calorie drinks and food, such as lite beer, which seems to me to be a lazy way of not using light

Still, there’s not much other use of the word except as a suffix -lite, but then you’d have to mention -lyte as well.

The message here – just use the damn word light and be done with it.

 

Searching for locations: Port Macquarie – Day 1 – Part 2

The resort had all the bungalows nestled in a tropical garden setting

And a number of the bungalows border on the lagoon, which looks great first thing in the morning.

There is also a clubhouse and indoor swimming pool.

And surprise, surprise, there are fish in the lagoon

Of course, a resort wouldn’t be the same without some friendly birds

Searching for locations: Port Macquarie – Day 1 – Part 2

The resort had all the bungalows nestled in a tropical garden setting

And a number of the bungalows border on the lagoon, which looks great first thing in the morning.

There is also a clubhouse and indoor swimming pool.

And surprise, surprise, there are fish in the lagoon

Of course, a resort wouldn’t be the same without some friendly birds

Searching for locations: Port Macquarie – Day 1 – Part 1

In keeping with the new travel plan, we are picking places in Australia, where we can exchange our timeshare week.

Some people consider timeshares as a waste of time and money, and the process of getting one is very painful, which it can be. 

Certainly, in some of the places we have gone, they tried hard to sell you another which can be a downside to staying, but the fact we get to stay in a three-bedroom fully kitted apartment of bungalow for $200 for the week far outweighs the small inconveniences.

Previously, we stayed at Coffs Harbour, but this time, we decided to stay at Port Macquarie.

Our bungalow, as they are called, is on the edge of the lagoon, which has an island and has been stocked with fish, though I doubt we would be allowed to go fishing in it.

For the more adventurous, there are canoes.  I think I would prefer the BBQ, and watch the planes taking off and landing at the airport just on the other side of the tree line on the other side of the lagoon.

At least they are only smaller planes like the De Havilland Dash 8.

And, knowing the airport was only minutes away, we dropped in for a quick photo op and got the following

Searching for locations: Port Macquarie – Day 1 – Part 1

In keeping with the new travel plan, we are picking places in Australia, where we can exchange our timeshare week.

Some people consider timeshares as a waste of time and money, and the process of getting one is very painful, which it can be. 

Certainly, in some of the places we have gone, they tried hard to sell you another which can be a downside to staying, but the fact we get to stay in a three-bedroom fully kitted apartment of bungalow for $200 for the week far outweighs the small inconveniences.

Previously, we stayed at Coffs Harbour, but this time, we decided to stay at Port Macquarie.

Our bungalow, as they are called, is on the edge of the lagoon, which has an island and has been stocked with fish, though I doubt we would be allowed to go fishing in it.

For the more adventurous, there are canoes.  I think I would prefer the BBQ, and watch the planes taking off and landing at the airport just on the other side of the tree line on the other side of the lagoon.

At least they are only smaller planes like the De Havilland Dash 8.

And, knowing the airport was only minutes away, we dropped in for a quick photo op and got the following

If I only had one day to stop over in – Canberra, Australia – what would I do?

One Day in Canberra? Make It Unforgettable With a Visit to the Australian War Memorial

You’ve just landed in Australia’s capital for a brief stop‑over. You’ve got 24 hours, a suitcase that’s still half‑packed, and a craving for a slice of “real” Aussie culture. Where do you go?

There are a dozen museums, a couple of formal gardens, and a parliamentary building that looks like it was lifted straight out of a 1970s postcard. But if you have only one place to squeeze into a single day, the Australian War Memorial (AWM) is the only answer that truly captures the spirit, history, and soul of Canberra—all in one unforgettable experience.

Why the Australian War Memorial Beats All the Rest

FeatureWhat It Gives YouWhy It Matters on a One‑Day Stopover
Iconic LocationSet on a hill with panoramic views over Lake Burley Griffin and the city skyline.Perfect backdrop for that Instagram‑ready shot you’ll be bragging about later.
History Meets ArtOver 100,000 artifacts, 1.5 million photographs, and a stunning collection of war‑time paintings and sculpture.You can walk through three centuries of Australian stories in just a couple of hours.
The Last Post CeremonyA nightly 10‑minute tribute with the haunting “Last Post” bugle call and a candle‑lit procession.A moving, free‑of‑charge experience that leaves an emotional imprint you’ll carry home.
Free EntryNo ticket price, just a suggested donation.Travel budgets love it—save your cash for an Aussie meat pie!
AccessibilityWheelchair‑friendly, audio guides in 12 languages, and plenty of signage.No matter your pace or travel style, you’ll be able to enjoy it fully.

In short: the Memorial is a micro‑cosm of Canberra. It merges the city’s design‑forward layout, its national identity, and its deep respect for service—all within a compact, easily navigable campus.

How to Turn a Few Hours at the AWM into a Full‑Day Adventure

1. Arrive Early – 9:00 am is Ideal

  • How to Get There: From Canberra Airport, hop on the ACTION bus Route 29 (≈ 15 min, $3.20) or grab a rideshare to the Memorial. Parking is plentiful if you’re driving.
  • First Stop: The Sculpture Garden. Stroll among pieces like “The Digger” and “Pacific Dancers” while the morning light hits the lake. It’s a tranquil introduction that eases you into the day.

2. Dive Into the Galleries (≈ 2 hours)

  • The Hall of Memory: Begin with the solemn Hall of Memory, where the Roll of Honour lists every Australian who has died in war. Take a moment—silence here is powerful.
  • The Galleries: Follow the chronological path: The First World War Gallery, The Second World War Gallery, and The Contemporary Conflicts Gallery. Look for:
    • The “Anzac” Diorama that recreates Gallipoli’s rough terrain.
    • The 1945 B-24 Liberator—a massive aircraft that fills an entire hall.
    • Personal letters and diaries displayed in glass cases; they bring the global conflicts down to intimate human stories.

3. Lunch With a View

  • Lunch Spot: Head to the Café Terrace on the Memorial grounds. Order the “Warrior’s Plate”—a hearty Aussie beef pie, side salad, and a glass of locally brewed coffee.
  • Alternative: Walk a few minutes to Lake Burley Griffin and picnic on the grassy knoll overlooking the water. Pack a sandwich from Café Italia at the nearby Old Bus Depot Markets (if it’s a Saturday).

4. The Memorial’s “Hidden Gem” – The Underground Chapel

  • Why Go? Tucked beneath the Hall of Memory, the Underground Chapel is a quiet, candle‑lit space where families leave poppies and notes. It’s the most contemplative spot in the whole complex—perfect for a reflective pause before you head out.

5. Catch the Last Post Ceremony (10 pm, or 5 pm on Sundays)

  • Insider Tip: Arrive about 15 minutes early to snag a good spot on the lawn. Bring a light jacket; evenings can be chilly even in summer.
  • What Happens: A lone bugler sounds the Last Post, followed by a 30‑second silence, the sounding of the Reveille, and the lighting of a wreath of candles. The ceremony ends with the national anthem—no better way to feel the heartbeat of Australia.

Quick Practical Checklist

✅Item
TransportACTION bus 29 or rideshare from the airport.
Timing9 am – 6 pm for galleries + 10 pm ceremony (or 5 pm on Sunday).
What to WearComfortable shoes, layers (the Memorial’s indoor climate can be cool).
FoodCafé Terrace for lunch; bring water and a snack for the ceremony.
Photo GearWide‑angle lens for the hilltop panorama; respectful etiquette inside galleries (no flash).
AccessibilityFree wheelchair hire at the information desk; audio guide in English & Mandarin (others on request).
BudgetFree entry; optional donation $10–$20 for the museum; café meal $15–$20.

The Takeaway

If you have one day in Canberra, you can’t go wrong with the Australian War Memorial. It’s not just a museum; it’s a narrative tapestry that weaves together the nation’s past, present, and future—all while offering stunning vistas, moving ceremonies, and a deep sense of humility that many travelers never experience elsewhere.

So, when your layover clock starts ticking, set your compass for AWM. Walk its halls, listen to the distant echo of the Last Post, and leave Canberra carrying not just a postcard, but an indelible story of a country that honors its past and looks forward with resolve.

Ready to make the most of that fleeting stop? Pack a camera, bring an open heart, and let the Australian War Memorial turn a single day into a lifetime memory.

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 55
365 Days of writing, 2026 – 55

If I only had one day to stop over in – Canberra, Australia – what would I do?

One Day in Canberra? Make It Unforgettable With a Visit to the Australian War Memorial

You’ve just landed in Australia’s capital for a brief stop‑over. You’ve got 24 hours, a suitcase that’s still half‑packed, and a craving for a slice of “real” Aussie culture. Where do you go?

There are a dozen museums, a couple of formal gardens, and a parliamentary building that looks like it was lifted straight out of a 1970s postcard. But if you have only one place to squeeze into a single day, the Australian War Memorial (AWM) is the only answer that truly captures the spirit, history, and soul of Canberra—all in one unforgettable experience.

Why the Australian War Memorial Beats All the Rest

FeatureWhat It Gives YouWhy It Matters on a One‑Day Stopover
Iconic LocationSet on a hill with panoramic views over Lake Burley Griffin and the city skyline.Perfect backdrop for that Instagram‑ready shot you’ll be bragging about later.
History Meets ArtOver 100,000 artifacts, 1.5 million photographs, and a stunning collection of war‑time paintings and sculpture.You can walk through three centuries of Australian stories in just a couple of hours.
The Last Post CeremonyA nightly 10‑minute tribute with the haunting “Last Post” bugle call and a candle‑lit procession.A moving, free‑of‑charge experience that leaves an emotional imprint you’ll carry home.
Free EntryNo ticket price, just a suggested donation.Travel budgets love it—save your cash for an Aussie meat pie!
AccessibilityWheelchair‑friendly, audio guides in 12 languages, and plenty of signage.No matter your pace or travel style, you’ll be able to enjoy it fully.

In short: the Memorial is a micro‑cosm of Canberra. It merges the city’s design‑forward layout, its national identity, and its deep respect for service—all within a compact, easily navigable campus.

How to Turn a Few Hours at the AWM into a Full‑Day Adventure

1. Arrive Early – 9:00 am is Ideal

  • How to Get There: From Canberra Airport, hop on the ACTION bus Route 29 (≈ 15 min, $3.20) or grab a rideshare to the Memorial. Parking is plentiful if you’re driving.
  • First Stop: The Sculpture Garden. Stroll among pieces like “The Digger” and “Pacific Dancers” while the morning light hits the lake. It’s a tranquil introduction that eases you into the day.

2. Dive Into the Galleries (≈ 2 hours)

  • The Hall of Memory: Begin with the solemn Hall of Memory, where the Roll of Honour lists every Australian who has died in war. Take a moment—silence here is powerful.
  • The Galleries: Follow the chronological path: The First World War Gallery, The Second World War Gallery, and The Contemporary Conflicts Gallery. Look for:
    • The “Anzac” Diorama that recreates Gallipoli’s rough terrain.
    • The 1945 B-24 Liberator—a massive aircraft that fills an entire hall.
    • Personal letters and diaries displayed in glass cases; they bring the global conflicts down to intimate human stories.

3. Lunch With a View

  • Lunch Spot: Head to the Café Terrace on the Memorial grounds. Order the “Warrior’s Plate”—a hearty Aussie beef pie, side salad, and a glass of locally brewed coffee.
  • Alternative: Walk a few minutes to Lake Burley Griffin and picnic on the grassy knoll overlooking the water. Pack a sandwich from Café Italia at the nearby Old Bus Depot Markets (if it’s a Saturday).

4. The Memorial’s “Hidden Gem” – The Underground Chapel

  • Why Go? Tucked beneath the Hall of Memory, the Underground Chapel is a quiet, candle‑lit space where families leave poppies and notes. It’s the most contemplative spot in the whole complex—perfect for a reflective pause before you head out.

5. Catch the Last Post Ceremony (10 pm, or 5 pm on Sundays)

  • Insider Tip: Arrive about 15 minutes early to snag a good spot on the lawn. Bring a light jacket; evenings can be chilly even in summer.
  • What Happens: A lone bugler sounds the Last Post, followed by a 30‑second silence, the sounding of the Reveille, and the lighting of a wreath of candles. The ceremony ends with the national anthem—no better way to feel the heartbeat of Australia.

Quick Practical Checklist

✅Item
TransportACTION bus 29 or rideshare from the airport.
Timing9 am – 6 pm for galleries + 10 pm ceremony (or 5 pm on Sunday).
What to WearComfortable shoes, layers (the Memorial’s indoor climate can be cool).
FoodCafé Terrace for lunch; bring water and a snack for the ceremony.
Photo GearWide‑angle lens for the hilltop panorama; respectful etiquette inside galleries (no flash).
AccessibilityFree wheelchair hire at the information desk; audio guide in English & Mandarin (others on request).
BudgetFree entry; optional donation $10–$20 for the museum; café meal $15–$20.

The Takeaway

If you have one day in Canberra, you can’t go wrong with the Australian War Memorial. It’s not just a museum; it’s a narrative tapestry that weaves together the nation’s past, present, and future—all while offering stunning vistas, moving ceremonies, and a deep sense of humility that many travelers never experience elsewhere.

So, when your layover clock starts ticking, set your compass for AWM. Walk its halls, listen to the distant echo of the Last Post, and leave Canberra carrying not just a postcard, but an indelible story of a country that honors its past and looks forward with resolve.

Ready to make the most of that fleeting stop? Pack a camera, bring an open heart, and let the Australian War Memorial turn a single day into a lifetime memory.

365 Days of writing, 2026 – 55
365 Days of writing, 2026 – 55

If I only had one day to stop over in – Brisbane, Australia – what would I do?

One‑Day Brisbane Stop‑Over: The One Spot That Turns a Quick Layover into a Memorable Adventure

You’ve just landed in Brisbane, the sun‑kissed capital of Queensland, and your flight schedule gives you just one day to soak up the city before you’re back on a plane. The clock is ticking, the luggage is already on the carousel, and you’re wondering: What single place can I visit that will make this 24‑hour lay‑over feel like a mini‑vacation rather than a rushed transit stop?

The answer: South Bank Parklands – Brisbane’s vibrant, riverside playground.

It’s not just a park; it’s a compact, walkable micro‑city that bundles everything a first‑time visitor craves—stunning river views, iconic attractions, a taste of local cuisine, and a splash of Australian wildlife—all within a 30‑minute train ride from the airport.

Below is my insider’s itinerary, plus practical tips so you can maximise every minute without breaking a sweat.

Why South Bank Beats All the Other “Must‑See” Options

FeatureSouth Bank ParklandsLone Pine Koala SanctuaryMount Coot‑tha LookoutBrisbane River Cruise
Proximity to Airport20 min via Airtrain (Civic to South Bank)30 min + bus transfer35 min + shuttle20 min + ferry
Time Required3–4 hrs (full experience)2–3 hrs (animal‑focused)1 hr (view only)1 hr (scenic)
What You GetCity skyline, beach, restaurants, museums, art, playgrounds, free Wi‑FiKoalas, kangaroos, farm‑style demosPanoramic city & Moreton BayNarrative history + photo ops
All‑Weather?Yes (covered cafés, indoor museums, heated “Streets Beach”)Mostly outdoorOutdoor (best on clear days)Dependent on rain

South Bank delivers the most diverse, self‑contained experience in the shortest amount of time, making it the perfect single‑spot highlight for a whirlwind lay‑over.

The 4‑Hour South Bank Sprint

Quick note: All times below assume you’ve already cleared customs and stored your luggage in an airport locker (or are traveling light).

1️⃣ Arrive & Orient – 20 min

  • From the airport: Grab the Airtrain from Brisbane Airport to South Bank (stop “South Bank”). Trains run every 10 minutes; the journey is 18 minutes.
  • Ticket tip: Use the TransLink go card (or the “QR‑code & go” option on your phone) – it’s cheaper than buying a paper ticket, and you’ll need it later for a quick ferry ride if you’re feeling adventurous.

2️⃣ Stroll the Parklands – 40 min

  • Enter via the Civic Centre gateway and follow the riverside promenade.
  • Snap your first photo at the Mural Wall—a massive, ever‑changing street‑art canvas that instantly feels “Brisbane”.
  • Head toward the iconic Streets Beach, a man‑made lagoon with a gentle wave‑pool and sandy shoreline. Even if you don’t dip in, the beach‑side loungers make for a perfect Instagram moment.

3️⃣ Lunch with a View – 60 min

  • Choose a waterfront eatery:
    • River Quay (modern Aussie, great seafood)
    • Mosaic on the Park (Asian‑fusion, vegetarian‑friendly)
    • The Milk Bar (classic Aussie café fare, perfect for a quick bite).
    All have outdoor seating that overlooks the Brisbane River—so you can watch the ferries glide by while you refuel.
  • Dish recommendation: Try the Moreton Bay bug (a type of flat lobster) on a herb butter or the locally sourced beetroot & feta salad for a fresh, Queensland twist.

4️⃣ Iconic Experiences – 80 min

ActivityTimeWhy It’s Worth It
Wheel of Brisbane15 min (ride)Offers a 360° view of the skyline and the river—great for a quick “I’m on a Ferris wheel in Brisbane!” selfie.
Queensland Museum & Sciencentre30 minA compact, free‑entry museum that showcases Aboriginal culture, natural history, and interactive science exhibits—perfect for a quick cultural deep‑dive.
GOMA (Gallery of Modern Art)20 min (quick wander)If you love contemporary art, GOMA’s rotating exhibitions are always provocative and photogenic.
Picnic at the Arboretum15 minGrab a takeaway coffee, find a shady spot under the native eucalypts, and watch the river’s gentle current—this is Brisbane’s version of “slow living”.

Tip: If the weather turns rainy, head straight to the Queensland Museum and GOMA, which are both indoor and free, ensuring your day stays memorable regardless of the sky.

5️⃣ Depart – 20 min

  • Walk back to South Bank Station, hop on the Airtrain, and you’ll be back at the airport in under 25 minutes—plenty of time for security and a final coffee at the terminal.

Pro‑Tips for Making the Most of Your One‑Day Stop‑Over

TipDetails
Luggage LockersUse the secure lockers at Airport Domestic Terminal – Level 1 (AU$7 for 24 hrs). This frees you up to roam unburdened.
CurrencyAustralian dollars are the norm, but most venues accept major credit cards. Have a small amount of cash for food stalls or the occasional tip.
Dress CodeBrisbane’s climate in summer (Dec‑Feb) is hot and humid (30‑35 °C). Light, breathable clothing + a hat + sunscreen. If you’re visiting in winter (Jun‑Aug), a light jacket is enough; temperatures sit around 12‑20 °C.
Sun ProtectionThe UV index can be “extreme”. Reapply sunscreen every two hours, even on cloudy days.
Wi‑FiFree public Wi‑Fi is available throughout South Bank (look for “South Bank Free Wi‑Fi”). Great for checking flight updates on the go.
Time ManagementSet a timer for each activity (e.g., “30 min at the museum”) to avoid getting stuck and missing your train.
Emergency ContactDial 000 for police, fire, or ambulance. For non‑emergencies, call 131 444 (Queensland Police Assistance).

A Quick Recap: The South Bank Blueprint

TimeActivity
00:00–00:20Airtrain to South Bank
00:20–01:00Stroll the parklands & snap the mural wall
01:00–02:00Lunch with river views
02:00–03:20Wheel of Brisbane → Queensland Museum → GOMA → Arboretum picnic
03:20–03:40Return to Airtrain, head back to airport
03:40–04:00Clear security, grab a final coffee, board your next flight

Final Thought

A stopover can feel like a logistical hurdle, but when you zero in on South Bank Parklands, you’re essentially plugging into Brisbane’s heart in a single, seamless stretch. From dazzling river panoramas to world‑class art, from a beach‑side lounge to a bite of fresh seafood, South Bank delivers a compact, unforgettable taste of Queensland—all without the need for a rental car or a marathon of bus transfers.

So the next time your itinerary gives you a 24‑hour window in Brisbane, skip the checklist of “must‑see” spots and let South Bank be your single, unforgettable destination. Trust me: you’ll step back onto that plane with a grin, a handful of great photos, and a story that says, “I only had a day, but I made it count.”

Happy travels, and may your lay‑over be anything but ordinary! 🌞🚉📸