After 6 of the best months of my life enjoying a working
holiday down under, I came back to reality with a bump when I stepped off the
plane to 3 degrees, rain and grey skies. ‘Welcome home’ indeed. Definitely not
the best idea I’ve had coming back to the UK in the middle of winter, but
unfortunately I had to return for job interviews for the next stage of my
career. Out came the layers, hats, scarves, gloves and boots in force.
 |
| Stunning Snowdonia |
In an attempt to ease the ‘post Aussie blues’, I spent the
week embracing striking Snowdonia, whilst dog sitting the cutest golden labrador.
The mountains certainly delivered the goods, wearing glistening white coats
with the most snow I’ve ever seen on them. Despite the chill, the sky stayed
blue and sunny for a few days, meaning a romantic wander in the mountains
whilst enjoying all things British – wintery walks followed by tea and scones
in a tiny village café.
 |
| Dog Sitting in this beautiful home |
 |
| Afternoon Tea |
Back at the cottage, I had my first attempt at lighting a
wood burning fire (with success!). I spent cosy evenings snuggled up with the
dog in front of the fire; losing myself in a good book and planning my next
adventure - a 5 week leisure trip to New Zealand (not much of a travel hiatus,
I know).
 |
| Acing the log fire, so proud! |
I have cheated a little during my few weeks back in the UK.
I hopped across the water and spent a weekend in Dublin, visiting friends that
I’d made in Australia. Having previously only explored the rural South West
coast, it was great to experience a change and visit the capital.
 |
| River Taffy, Dublin |
I shamelessly
did all the tourist stuff, including the famous Guinness Brewhouse. I’d never
really liked Guinness much, but sank my pint in the famous gravity bar with surprising
ease whilst enjoying panoramic views over the city. The most delicious pint I’ve
ever drank, I’ve been converted!
 |
| Guinness Brewhouse |
The weekend flew by in a blur of delicious food, laughs with
friends and a few too many Guinness...you know you’re in trouble when you end up
hollering Justin Bieber at the top of your voice in a pub called ‘The Hairy
Lemon’.
 |
| Temple Bar, Dublin |
My time back home has certainly made me appreciate how beautiful home is. However, no sooner have I unpacked, it’s time to start packing for
New Zealand. As if Australia wasn’t South enough…
 |
| Goodbye again for now, Wales |
