Newcastle!

Hello from Newcastle!!

Today we woke up in Sydney and got ready to go to Newcastle! But before we left, our family made sure that we tried some vegemite (the Aussie classic that no one else seems to like!) Rachel prepared it for us on some bread with butter and cheese. The secret is to just put a little bit on the piece of toast. You can still taste it but it isn’t overbearing. It’s a very salty snack with the same consistency as butter. I’ll remember to bring some home for everyone to try! (WARNING: do not smell it before you try it. It smells awful.) Rachel told us that in New Zealand they prefer Marmite, which I will have to try! It’s similar but a bit sweeter. After our vegemite experience we got dropped off at the train station near the house we were at, took a short train ride into the city, and then about a 2.5-hour ride to Newcastle! We walked about one block to the hostel called Backpackers by the Beach. Then we walked about 2 minutes to get to the beach! It was pretty overcast but there were lots of surfers in the water! Then we just walked around the area around our hostel.  We ate pizza in the lobby with the rest of the people staying here. Everyone we have met in Australia so far has been so friendly! Our host family in Sydney was so awesome. The people at the train station were extremely helpful. Kylie and I are lugging around quite a bit of luggage and every one today on the train was so helpful and understanding! The person who runs the hostel we are at is also very kind and helpful. Australia is such a warm and welcoming country; even in the middle of winter! J

Until next time,

Kimmy

Trying Vegemite with Kylie!

Our giant mass of bags on the train. Note to self: just because you are allowed to bring 4 bags each, doesn't mean you should.