Two
weeks in New South Wales, Australia, wasn’t just a student exchange trip. It was a whirlwind of adventure with the warmest of welcomes. Living alongside the Reeves family in Kingscliff and Byron Bay felt less like a homestay and more like having a second home for those short but sweet fourteen days. James, Nicole, and Ben Reeves, along with their furry friend Polo, became like family, opening their hearts and their home to us. Our days were filled with incredible experiences. One unforgettable highlight was the trip to SeaWorld with my classmates. We marveled at the amazing marine life shows, watching in awe the agility of the dolphins and the playful antics of the seals. But the real thrill came on the rides. The Leviathan, a leviathan in name and nature, stole the show. This uncomfortably creaky and wooden behemoth, one of Australia’s fastest and tallest coasters, launched us from 0 to 70 kilometres per hour in a blink, sending us hurtling through twists, inversions, and stomach-dropping plunges. It was a white-knuckled, exhilarating experience that left us 3 weak-kneed and grinning from ear to ear. We of course tried out other coasters too, each offering its own brand of thrills, but the Leviathan remained the undisputed champion. Another unforgettable memory was our adventure to Killin Falls with the Reeves family. The trek itself was a mini-adventure, weaving through lush forest, and navigating down the muddy path. Reaching the base of the falls, the power of nature was jaw dropping. The cascading water roared, sending a cool mist that tickled our skin. With a deep breath and a shared look of excitement, we plunged into the icy-cold pool at the base of the waterfall. The shock was immediate, but it was quickly replaced by exhilaration. Laughing and grunting, we splashed and played. We slowly adapted to the cold and managed to capture a memory that I’ll hold close for the rest of my life. Leaving Australia was bittersweet, but the memories I made with the Reeves family and my classmates will forever hold a special place in my heart. This trip wasn’t just about exploring a new country; it was about the wonderful people who made it feel like home, and the incredible adventures we shared together.
