Showing posts with label adventure. Show all posts
Showing posts with label adventure. Show all posts
Wednesday, July 25, 2018
Flight around Australia's coastline 19th anniversary
On the 3rd July 1999 I set off to fly around the coast of Australia in a Cessna 172P, so this month I'm celebrating the 19th anniversary of that flight. Read more about it at http://franwest.com/adventurer. I'm planning a few things for my 20th anniversary next year so stay tuned.
Saturday, February 8, 2014
Australia's Coast from the Air Detour to the Argyle Diamond Mine, Western Australia
During the "Australia's Coast from the Air" flight, a detour was made to the Argyle Diamond Mine, Western Australia. This blog post adds to the first post of "Diamond Adventure".
The Argyle Diamond Mine, located in the East Kimberley area of Western Australia, near Kununurra, is the world's largest single producer of natural coloured diamonds and is famous for its rare pink diamonds.
A commercial joyflight was taken from Kununurra to the diamond mine airstrip and then a bus tour followed. The bus trip was hot and dusty but FIFOs (people who Fly In and Fly Out) enjoy the work and the big money from mining in the Outback. A great lifestyle for people who want to work away from home and save their money. Western Australia really is the "State of Adventure and Excitement" with loads of opportunities for people who want to work hard and reap the monetary rewards.
The mine area is quite extensive with several buildings around the place (like those above and below).
However, the most impressive sight is that of the open pit mine (below) which is huge.
You can read more about the Argyle Diamond Mine and Rio Tinto's operations by clicking here.
The Argyle Diamond Mine, located in the East Kimberley area of Western Australia, near Kununurra, is the world's largest single producer of natural coloured diamonds and is famous for its rare pink diamonds.
A commercial joyflight was taken from Kununurra to the diamond mine airstrip and then a bus tour followed. The bus trip was hot and dusty but FIFOs (people who Fly In and Fly Out) enjoy the work and the big money from mining in the Outback. A great lifestyle for people who want to work away from home and save their money. Western Australia really is the "State of Adventure and Excitement" with loads of opportunities for people who want to work hard and reap the monetary rewards.
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| Argyle Diamond Mine, Kimberleys, Western Australia - Fran West |
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| Argyle Diamond Mine, Kimberleys, Western Australia - Fran West |
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| Argyle Diamond Mine, Kimberleys, Western Australia - Fran West |
As with any marathon flight or holiday, you need to take a break and let someone else do the flying (or driving) and just enjoy.
It was worth the effort of researching side trips for my flight and having time off every now and then.
By visiting the mine I learnt something special about my own country and I learnt more about diamonds. As far as I'm concerned diamonds aren't always a girl's best friend. Give me a beautiful blue Australian sapphire any day!
Tuesday, January 8, 2013
Flyabout Adventure Around Australia's Coast - Broome, Western Australia
Australia's coast from the air is quite fascinating because it varies so much. People tend to think of Australia as only having beautiful white sandy beaches stretching for kilometres.
However, some parts of the coast are loaded with colour. One such area is in Western Australia, near Broome. Really orange red sand and rock.
To appreciate the rugged beauty fully, there's no better way than from the air.
During my flight around Australia's coast I had the best seat in the house, flying over the sea and taking photos from the pilot's seat on the left hand side of the plane.
As you can see from the photo of Cape Gantheaume, the coast is even more spectacular framed by the brilliant blue of the sea.
Broome is located in the northwest of Western Australia not far from Derby and the Buccaneer Archipelago, the crinkly bits on the map of Australia.
It was quite a relief to land at Broome because my flight was over the ocean, the home of saltwater crocodiles from north Queensland to north of Broome. Thankfully I didn't have an engine failure and I was flying within gliding distance of the land.
The thought of crocodile infested waters was in the back of my mind during the flight. However, I didn't let it stop me even though it was one of my fears. I don't like flying over water either but to take photos from this unique perspective I had to do it.
To achieve your goals in life, sometimes you have to confront your fears. It's a matter of getting over it and getting on with it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. I digress, so back to the coast of Broome.
This Outback town is also famous for its pearls and as I was flying around the coast, several of the pearl farms were visible from the air.
As far as I'm concerned, Broome is the Pearl of Western Australia because it has a real mix of culture and natural beauty.
As you can see from this photo there's white sand interspersed amongst the orange red areas. Broome is famous too for its Cable Beach and spectacular sunsets.
Sun setting over colourful sand on a much quieter beach is quite something again.
I guess you can take away two things from this post:
However, some parts of the coast are loaded with colour. One such area is in Western Australia, near Broome. Really orange red sand and rock.
 |
| Cape Gantheaume, Broome, Western Australia |
During my flight around Australia's coast I had the best seat in the house, flying over the sea and taking photos from the pilot's seat on the left hand side of the plane.
As you can see from the photo of Cape Gantheaume, the coast is even more spectacular framed by the brilliant blue of the sea.
Broome is located in the northwest of Western Australia not far from Derby and the Buccaneer Archipelago, the crinkly bits on the map of Australia.
It was quite a relief to land at Broome because my flight was over the ocean, the home of saltwater crocodiles from north Queensland to north of Broome. Thankfully I didn't have an engine failure and I was flying within gliding distance of the land.
The thought of crocodile infested waters was in the back of my mind during the flight. However, I didn't let it stop me even though it was one of my fears. I don't like flying over water either but to take photos from this unique perspective I had to do it.
To achieve your goals in life, sometimes you have to confront your fears. It's a matter of getting over it and getting on with it. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. I digress, so back to the coast of Broome.
 |
| Port of Broome, Western Australia |
As far as I'm concerned, Broome is the Pearl of Western Australia because it has a real mix of culture and natural beauty.
As you can see from this photo there's white sand interspersed amongst the orange red areas. Broome is famous too for its Cable Beach and spectacular sunsets.
Sun setting over colourful sand on a much quieter beach is quite something again.
 |
| Broome beach, Western Australia, at sunset |
I guess you can take away two things from this post:
- go visit Broome (you won't be sorry) and
- confront your fears if you want to achieve your goals badly enough.
Sunday, December 4, 2011
"Float Planes of Alaska" DVD: a Great Christmas Gift
For people who live in North America, especially mainland USA and Canada, I've produced a DVD devoted entirely to float planes in Alaska.
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place.
It's great to watch for relaxation and armchair travel by people of all ages. No commentary or captions, just look, listen and enjoy. It runs for about 26 minutes.
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
The planes are colourful and the background shows the beauty of the mountains, the lakes and their surroundings. Reflections in the water abound. There's nothing quite like float planes. You have to be a sailor and a pilot at the same time. You need a life jacket, rope and a paddle and in some cases a rifle case attached to the wing strut.
I've also done an "Alfred Hitchcock" in this DVD. Two of the planes I flew in are well represented. And by the way, you'll never guess what my favourite colour is!
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. The soundtrack is also the same. As usual this is available in NTSC and PAL format and the price is the same at $25.00 plus postage.
In future videos you may also see the scenery which I photographed from the plane but buy this one first.
View Larger Map
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place.
It's great to watch for relaxation and armchair travel by people of all ages. No commentary or captions, just look, listen and enjoy. It runs for about 26 minutes.
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
The planes are colourful and the background shows the beauty of the mountains, the lakes and their surroundings. Reflections in the water abound. There's nothing quite like float planes. You have to be a sailor and a pilot at the same time. You need a life jacket, rope and a paddle and in some cases a rifle case attached to the wing strut.
I've also done an "Alfred Hitchcock" in this DVD. Two of the planes I flew in are well represented. And by the way, you'll never guess what my favourite colour is!
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. The soundtrack is also the same. As usual this is available in NTSC and PAL format and the price is the same at $25.00 plus postage.
In future videos you may also see the scenery which I photographed from the plane but buy this one first.
View Larger Map
Sunday, July 3, 2011
Flyabout around Australia's Coast - 12th Anniversary, 3rd July
It's hard to believe that it's 12 years since I set off from Naracoorte, in South Australia's South East, to fly around the coast of Australia. I was two days behind schedule because of the dreadful wintry weather. Even one of the flight briefing officers said the weather was so bad that I should go back to bed and not bother flying in the Cessna 172!
Nevertheless, I did set off around Australia's coast, flying over the ocean about a mile out to sea and at about 1,000 to 1,500 feet above the water. This provided an excellent oblique angle for the photographs and the Cessna 172 was the right speed aircraft for photographing under the high wing.
Reflecting back on the flight and the past 12 years has been good for my own reminiscence therapy. Life certainly has changed for me.
Even though I had no team, partner, manager or thousands of dollars of sponsorship behind me, I still achieved my goal. However, I did receive help from people along the way. Members of the Australian Women Pilots' Association and members of Soroptimist International Service Organisation, in particular, provided me with accommodation and local knowledge when possible. I'd also like to thank again the series of friends and strangers who flew with me on different parts of my journey. From them I learnt a lot about flying, myself and life in general.
I had a dream to fly around Australia's coast and photograph while I was flying and I actually did it. The best advice I can give to people is that if you have a burning desire to do something, no matter how big or small, then just do it! Stop stuffing around and get on with it! You'll regret it for the rest of your life if you don't at least have a go.
Because I had a dream and did something about it, I set in motion a sequence of events which has led me to where I am now. On the return from my flight, I started speaking to people about my experiences. People then wanted me to write a book, which I did, Plane Reflections, and that led to collaboration in several academic publications. After that, I put my photos on CD and then progressed to movie presentations of the photos on DVDs. That in turn led me to producing DVDs for aged care and dementia patients as reminiscence therapy.
It hasn't been an easy path. In between times I suffered injuries in a head on collision in a car which further forced me in the direction that I'm now heading. Strange how my dream has now turned from me doing something solely for myself to me helping others.
Life is an adventure, so make the most of it.
If you want to hear or read more about my philosophy of life and business you can contact me at fran@franwest.com.
My websites are www.franwest.com and www.alzheimersproducts.blogspot.com.
Nevertheless, I did set off around Australia's coast, flying over the ocean about a mile out to sea and at about 1,000 to 1,500 feet above the water. This provided an excellent oblique angle for the photographs and the Cessna 172 was the right speed aircraft for photographing under the high wing.
Reflecting back on the flight and the past 12 years has been good for my own reminiscence therapy. Life certainly has changed for me.
Even though I had no team, partner, manager or thousands of dollars of sponsorship behind me, I still achieved my goal. However, I did receive help from people along the way. Members of the Australian Women Pilots' Association and members of Soroptimist International Service Organisation, in particular, provided me with accommodation and local knowledge when possible. I'd also like to thank again the series of friends and strangers who flew with me on different parts of my journey. From them I learnt a lot about flying, myself and life in general.
I had a dream to fly around Australia's coast and photograph while I was flying and I actually did it. The best advice I can give to people is that if you have a burning desire to do something, no matter how big or small, then just do it! Stop stuffing around and get on with it! You'll regret it for the rest of your life if you don't at least have a go.
Because I had a dream and did something about it, I set in motion a sequence of events which has led me to where I am now. On the return from my flight, I started speaking to people about my experiences. People then wanted me to write a book, which I did, Plane Reflections, and that led to collaboration in several academic publications. After that, I put my photos on CD and then progressed to movie presentations of the photos on DVDs. That in turn led me to producing DVDs for aged care and dementia patients as reminiscence therapy.
It hasn't been an easy path. In between times I suffered injuries in a head on collision in a car which further forced me in the direction that I'm now heading. Strange how my dream has now turned from me doing something solely for myself to me helping others.
Life is an adventure, so make the most of it.
If you want to hear or read more about my philosophy of life and business you can contact me at fran@franwest.com.
My websites are www.franwest.com and www.alzheimersproducts.blogspot.com.
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Amazing Arches is Absolutely Awesome
Arches National Park, in southern Utah, USA, is absolutely awe inspiring. So much so that the state has actually put an image of Delicate Arch, located in the park, on vehicle number plates. I'm obviously not the only one gobsmacked by this national park!
It's easy to get to being not that far out of Moab, action capital of Utah. Just take US 191 and travel for about 5 miles north of Moab - a national park situated so close to a major town. How good is that?
After you've picked up your information at the Arches Visitor Center, you then head up the winding road to really enter the park.
Obviously there are many arches in the park to give it its name. You may think a dozen or so but you'd be wrong. Apparently there are over 2,000 arches and they vary considerably in size from something a few feet across to the largest, which is Landscape Arch. This one is 306 feet wide and so skinny too!
Check out the Arches National Park website for further information.
It's easy to get to being not that far out of Moab, action capital of Utah. Just take US 191 and travel for about 5 miles north of Moab - a national park situated so close to a major town. How good is that?
After you've picked up your information at the Arches Visitor Center, you then head up the winding road to really enter the park.
Obviously there are many arches in the park to give it its name. You may think a dozen or so but you'd be wrong. Apparently there are over 2,000 arches and they vary considerably in size from something a few feet across to the largest, which is Landscape Arch. This one is 306 feet wide and so skinny too!
Check out the Arches National Park website for further information.
Monday, April 18, 2011
Flyabout in Alaska - "Float Planes of Alaska" DVD Out Now!
For people who live in North America, especially mainland USA and Canada, I've produced a DVD devoted entirely to float planes in Alaska.
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place.
Although my videos are mostly designed for aged care, they're still great to watch for relaxation and armchair travel by people of all ages.
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
The planes are colourful and the background shows the beauty of the mountains, the lakes and their surroundings. Reflections in the water abound. There's nothing quite like float planes. You have to be a sailor and a pilot at the same time. You need a life jacket, rope and a paddle and in some cases a rifle case attached to the wing strut.
I've also done an "Alfred Hitchcock" in this DVD. Two of the planes I flew in are well represented. And by the way, you'll never guess what my favourite colour is!
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. The soundtrack is also the same. As usual this is available in NTSC and PAL format and the price is the same at $25.00 plus postage.
In future videos you may also see the scenery which I photographed from the plane but buy this one first.
View Larger Map
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
"Float Planes of Alaska" DVD coming soon
For people who live in North America especially, I've decided to produce a DVD devoted entirely to float planes in Alaska.
This would certainly bring back memories for so many who have flown as a part of life and an easy way to travel from place to place. There are over 200 float planes in this DVD but as you'll see red is my favourite colour!
While I was in Alaska a couple of years ago, I spent a day and a half walking around Lake Hood, near the main Anchorage Airport. I also did some float plane training from Lake Hood and Trail Lake at Moose Pass, south of Anchorage.
Many of the photos have appeared in "Awesome Aviation" but there are quite a lot which are new. As usual I'll be producing in NTSC and PAL format and the price will be the same at $25.00 plus postage.
If you'd like to reserve a copy, email me at fran@franwest.com.
Monday, March 21, 2011
Fran's Backpack - Reader's Digest - Great Wonders & Splendors of the World DVD Set
Fran's Backpack brings to you various products on travel, adventure, flying and photography.
They could be books, ebooks, videos, or gear. Check each one out as it's highlighted on the day.
Today's item in the Backpack is Reader's Digest - Great Wonders & Splendors of the World DVD Set.
This set reminds me of my bucket list because I've been to 11 of the places listed but I obviously have to keep going to visit the rest. These DVDs just whet the appetite for more travel.
Click on the ad for more information.
Product Description
Explore the world’s greatest creations, from the natural to the man-made, that have left indelible impressions on countless generations with their beauty, scale and style. From Australia’s Great Barrier Reef to China’s Forbidden City, the Great Pyramids of Giza to the Grand Canyon of the United States–travel to the world’s most breathtaking sights, monuments, palaces and natural wonders.
Disc 1: Wonders of Nature - Although nature’s many miracles evoke a sense of wonder, specific examples of magnificence are revealed to us in many different and special ways. The Grand Canyon, The Serengeti, The Sahara Desert, Iguazi Falls, The Amazon River, Ayers Rock, and The Himalayas.
Disc 2: Wonders Sacred & Mysterious - Experience six supreme examples of man’s attempt to honor the mysteries of life by creating monuments of astonishing beauty. Stonehenge, The Great Pyramids, Hagia Sophia, Borobudur, St. Peter’s Basilica, and The Taj Mahal.
Disc 3: Wonders of Man’s Creation - When the urge to build is combined with a vision of beauty, man leaves behind an enduring mark on an ever-changing world. The Colosseum, Machu Picchu, The Great Wall, The Kremlin, Versailles, The Statue of Liberty, The Eiffel Tower, and Mount Rushmore.
Disc 4: Splendors of Nature - Travel the world to experience splendors unknown to past generations. Witness the incomparable beauty of the natural world: Bengal Tigers of Autumn, Snow Monkeys of Winter, The Great Barrier Reef in Spring, Caribou of Summer, and Victoria Falls.
Disc 5: Ancient Splendors - Take a world tour of the wonders, mysteries and achievements wrought by long-ago civilizations. Temples of Egypt, Lost City of the Maya, Acropolis of Ancient Greece, and Angkor Wat.
Disc 6: Imperial Splendors - See rare and beautiful monuments of powerful empires and splendid courts. Ponder the bittersweet reminders of those who once conquered, ruled and flourished. Xanadu, The Forbidden City, Alhambra, Summer Palace, and Neuschwanstein.
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Flyabout to Rainbow Bridge over Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona
Rainbow Bridge National Monument, Utah, can be reached by boat, on foot or on horseback but my preferred method of viewing is from the air.
I got up very early to go on a scenic flight at 6am while the sun was rising. We took off from Page Airport and headed over Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreational Area. It's better to go flying early in the morning when it's cooler and generally calmer. The light is quite intriguing as well.
Rainbow Bridge is the largest natural bridge in the world at 290 feet tall and 270 feet across (about 90 metres) and is considered sacred by the Navajo Indians.
When viewed from the ground Rainbow Bridge looks as though it's in the open but from the air you can see that it's tucked away amongst the rocks. Zoom in on the photo so you can see the top part of the bridge in the bottom right foreground.
Fortunately there's no visitor centre on the ground to degrade the spirituality of the place.
After my flight I headed back to Wahweap to catch a day cruise which took us over the large expanse of the lake, into some of the canyons, and to Rainbow Bridge itself. It was a short hike from the jetty but on such a hot day a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water were essential.
This is one place to put on your bucket list but see it from both the ground and the air like I did.
For further information check out Rainbow Bridge National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreational Area.
I got up very early to go on a scenic flight at 6am while the sun was rising. We took off from Page Airport and headed over Lake Powell and Glen Canyon National Recreational Area. It's better to go flying early in the morning when it's cooler and generally calmer. The light is quite intriguing as well.
Rainbow Bridge is the largest natural bridge in the world at 290 feet tall and 270 feet across (about 90 metres) and is considered sacred by the Navajo Indians.
When viewed from the ground Rainbow Bridge looks as though it's in the open but from the air you can see that it's tucked away amongst the rocks. Zoom in on the photo so you can see the top part of the bridge in the bottom right foreground.
Fortunately there's no visitor centre on the ground to degrade the spirituality of the place.
After my flight I headed back to Wahweap to catch a day cruise which took us over the large expanse of the lake, into some of the canyons, and to Rainbow Bridge itself. It was a short hike from the jetty but on such a hot day a hat, sunscreen and plenty of water were essential.
This is one place to put on your bucket list but see it from both the ground and the air like I did.
For further information check out Rainbow Bridge National Monument and Glen Canyon National Recreational Area.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
Flyabout around Australia's Coast - Buccaneer Archipelago, Western Australia
The Buccaneer Archipelago, Western Australia, is one of the best stretches of coast around the Australian mainland.
As the name suggests, it's a sea of islands, with the most incredible shaped coastal landforms. It's situated northeast of Derby in the northern part of Western Australia, stretching from about Collier Bay to King Sound. This is outback Outback with the easiest access by water and air rather than by road.
William Dampier, the English buccaneer, visited the area on the "Cygnet" in 1688, but the archipelago was named after his buccaneering ways much later on. Phillip Parker King was charting the area in 1821 and named it in his honour.
This is one of Australia's remotest areas and I'm glad I had all the survival gear in the plane just in case something went wrong on my flight around Australia's coast.
If you want to see the area by plane, then take a scenic flight from Derby or Broome. You won't be sorry that you did. Spectacular with a capital "S"!
As the name suggests, it's a sea of islands, with the most incredible shaped coastal landforms. It's situated northeast of Derby in the northern part of Western Australia, stretching from about Collier Bay to King Sound. This is outback Outback with the easiest access by water and air rather than by road.
William Dampier, the English buccaneer, visited the area on the "Cygnet" in 1688, but the archipelago was named after his buccaneering ways much later on. Phillip Parker King was charting the area in 1821 and named it in his honour.
This is one of Australia's remotest areas and I'm glad I had all the survival gear in the plane just in case something went wrong on my flight around Australia's coast.
If you want to see the area by plane, then take a scenic flight from Derby or Broome. You won't be sorry that you did. Spectacular with a capital "S"!
Monday, February 21, 2011
Sensational Sailing from City's Sands
When some people think of Australia's sandy beaches, they immediately think of Queensland, our northern most state.
However, Adelaide's white sandy beaches, in South Australia , are just superb, and they're not that far from the CBD.
As you can see from the photo, it's an ideal day for the sailing club to get out on the water. These craft are for one person and offer young sailors the opportunity to enjoy flying through the water.
On a weekend, the beach is teeming with life.
There are people in the water swimming, sailing or kayaking. People are walking their dogs, or their families, and generally soaking up the seaside atmosphere.
Close to the jetty there's the local pub and the cafe has the smell of fish and chips wafting down to the shore enticing walkers to stop and take a break.
Sometimes there are even kite surfers out on the water adding colour to the mix of sail boats and speed boats. It's so relaxing to sit on one of the benches and munch on fish and chips while watching the little flotilla in the distance.
Just South Australia being sensational again!
Check out "Maritime Mix" DVD for more snippets of South Australian waters.
However, Adelaide's white sandy beaches, in South Australia , are just superb, and they're not that far from the CBD.
As you can see from the photo, it's an ideal day for the sailing club to get out on the water. These craft are for one person and offer young sailors the opportunity to enjoy flying through the water.
On a weekend, the beach is teeming with life.
There are people in the water swimming, sailing or kayaking. People are walking their dogs, or their families, and generally soaking up the seaside atmosphere.
Close to the jetty there's the local pub and the cafe has the smell of fish and chips wafting down to the shore enticing walkers to stop and take a break.
Sometimes there are even kite surfers out on the water adding colour to the mix of sail boats and speed boats. It's so relaxing to sit on one of the benches and munch on fish and chips while watching the little flotilla in the distance.
Just South Australia being sensational again!
Check out "Maritime Mix" DVD for more snippets of South Australian waters.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Fran's Backpack - Flying South: A Pilot's Inner Journey [Paperback]
Fran's Backpack brings to you various products on travel, adventure, flying and photography.
They could be books, ebooks, videos, or gear. Check each one out as it's highlighted on the day.
Today's item in the Backpack is Flying South: A Pilot's Inner Journey [Bargain Price] [Paperback].
This combines both flying and travel. What a combination!
Click on the ad for more information.
Product Description
Flying South A Pilot’s Inner Journey by Barbara Cushman Rowell Photographs by Barbara and Galen Rowell
Call it love at first flight. Barbara Cushman Rowell was already a powerhouse by anyone’s measure, but it wasn’t until she tried flying that she found the inner fulfillment and sense of self she’d longed for all her life. As the driving force behind husband Galen Rowell’s business success, Barbara’s adventures and accomplishments had always been the byproduct of her husband’s career. Until, that is, she took off and sailed into a strata all her own. FLYING SOUTH is the hair-raising, reflective, and ultimately inspiring story of Barbara’s trip of a lifetime—a 25,000-mile, 57-leg journey through Latin America and the recesses of her soul, discovering unrealized self-confidence, irrepressible resourcefulness, and vast reserves of emotional and physical strength she never knew she had. And what a journey it was. She recounts landing in the middle of a coup in Panama, narrowly escaping disaster when key flight instruments failed over Peru, flying herself to an oral surgeon after a mouth-smashing rafting accident on the Bio Bio River in Chile, fighting plane-shredding winds over the Andes, and surviving a life-threatening and disorienting tropical storm off the coast of Brazil—all while navigating the pervasive and demoralizing chauvinism of the aviation world. But much more than a harrowing page-turner, Barbara’s tale of finding herself through flight inspires us all to go after the experiences we long for, and to live the lives we only wish for. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
From the Publisher
•Includes over 100 stunning photographs, principally by GalenRowell.
•Adventure travel doubles as inspirational manifesto for women trying to find their own direction in life.
•Rowell is a role model for every woman who longs to nurture her own aspirations. --This text refers to the Hardcover edition.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Awesome Alaskan Sunset Stirs the Soul
Sunsets in Alaska are awesome (as is just about everything else about the place). However, this one was at the end of a superb day for me.
In the morning I left Anchorage and headed down to Trail Lake and Moose Pass to do some refresher float plane flying. I'd gained a float plane rating in Seattle years ago and wanted to try some more float flying in a mountainous region that had lakes, rivers, glaciers and ice fields.
Spectacular is an understatement for the scenery. The flying wasn't bad either. You can see some of the photos on my main website www.franwest.com.
Just a wonderful day with the long drive back to Anchorage accompanied by a setting sun.
The sunset seemed to seep into my soul and remind me just how fortunate I've been to live my dreams of travel, flying and photography.
Enjoy the photo.
In the morning I left Anchorage and headed down to Trail Lake and Moose Pass to do some refresher float plane flying. I'd gained a float plane rating in Seattle years ago and wanted to try some more float flying in a mountainous region that had lakes, rivers, glaciers and ice fields.
Spectacular is an understatement for the scenery. The flying wasn't bad either. You can see some of the photos on my main website www.franwest.com.
Just a wonderful day with the long drive back to Anchorage accompanied by a setting sun.
The sunset seemed to seep into my soul and remind me just how fortunate I've been to live my dreams of travel, flying and photography.
Enjoy the photo.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
I'm Just a Total Wreck!
The Port Adelaide Ships' Graveyards, near Adelaide, South Australia, are the setting for a good adventure on the water.
There are five abandonment sites within the Port Adelaide area but the largest is at Garden Island, in the North Arm of the Port River, with other sites located at Jervois Basin, Mutton Cove, Broad Creek and Angas Inlet.
I've been exploring around the Garden Island area twice. Once in my nephew's boat and another time in a kayaking group (kayaking enables people to go into the mangroves but the mosquitoes can be very annoying).
There are heaps of vessel remains in the area and their maritime history covers more than a century. One thing that makes this area unique is the fact that these shipwrecks are accessible to people on the top of the water, not just divers.
You can get right amongst the wrecks but be safety conscious at the same time. Because of this ability to get up close in a boat or kayak, it's apparently the largest and most diverse shipwreck site in Australia that can be explored by people who aren't necessarily divers.
The added bonus, if you're lucky, is to have the Port River dolphins swimming beside you. Another recommended adventure in sensational South Australia!
Check out the Ships' Graveyards site.
Photos of the shipwrecks and other vessels on the water here appear in my DVD, "Maritime Mix".
There are five abandonment sites within the Port Adelaide area but the largest is at Garden Island, in the North Arm of the Port River, with other sites located at Jervois Basin, Mutton Cove, Broad Creek and Angas Inlet.
I've been exploring around the Garden Island area twice. Once in my nephew's boat and another time in a kayaking group (kayaking enables people to go into the mangroves but the mosquitoes can be very annoying).
There are heaps of vessel remains in the area and their maritime history covers more than a century. One thing that makes this area unique is the fact that these shipwrecks are accessible to people on the top of the water, not just divers.
You can get right amongst the wrecks but be safety conscious at the same time. Because of this ability to get up close in a boat or kayak, it's apparently the largest and most diverse shipwreck site in Australia that can be explored by people who aren't necessarily divers.
The added bonus, if you're lucky, is to have the Port River dolphins swimming beside you. Another recommended adventure in sensational South Australia!
Check out the Ships' Graveyards site.
Photos of the shipwrecks and other vessels on the water here appear in my DVD, "Maritime Mix".
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Flyabout around Australia's Coast - Nhulunbuy, Northern Territory or "There are No Accidents"
Nhulunbuy (or Gove) in Arnhemland, Northern Territory, is one of the places I had to spend some time on the ground during my flight around Australia's coast.
The weather was extremely windy and not good for flying and successfully photographing. Sometimes it's better to stay on the ground and rest or do other things.
I caught up on writing my diary, did my laundry and a bit more planning and rescheduling.
I was also put in contact with a local military historian.
Apart from the tremendous hospitality (especially the meals at the canteen) from Nabalco (now Alcan Gove) this was a highlight of my stay.
According to a character in "Kung Fu Panda", "There are no accidents" and I believe this to be the case here. My father was stationed at Gove during the Second World War. He was in the Royal Australian Air Force in signals, not as pilot crew, and he never liked to talk much about his war time experiences.
Phil, the military historian, told me a little bit about Gove during the war and even showed me an old map. Everything has changed and the building where my father would have been stationed is now under the bauxite mine (the bright orange/yellow colour).
So, I had to do my flight around the coast of Australia to discover something about my own father. No accident indeed!
Check out Nhulunbuy http://www.theterritory.com.au/index.php?menuID=140
I caught up on writing my diary, did my laundry and a bit more planning and rescheduling.
I was also put in contact with a local military historian.
Apart from the tremendous hospitality (especially the meals at the canteen) from Nabalco (now Alcan Gove) this was a highlight of my stay.
According to a character in "Kung Fu Panda", "There are no accidents" and I believe this to be the case here. My father was stationed at Gove during the Second World War. He was in the Royal Australian Air Force in signals, not as pilot crew, and he never liked to talk much about his war time experiences.
Phil, the military historian, told me a little bit about Gove during the war and even showed me an old map. Everything has changed and the building where my father would have been stationed is now under the bauxite mine (the bright orange/yellow colour).
So, I had to do my flight around the coast of Australia to discover something about my own father. No accident indeed!
Check out Nhulunbuy http://www.theterritory.com.au/index.php?menuID=140
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Cruising the Canyons, Lake Powell, Utah/Arizona
One of the many activities to do at Lake Powell, in Glen Canyon National Recreation Area, is to take a cruise around the lake and into the canyons.
Usually there are half day and full day cruises, with lunch provided on the full day ventures. On a hot day, if you choose to be on the top deck, drink plenty of water (provided) and take a hat and sunscreen. Just make sure that the hat ties on because someone on our cruise had to wave his hat goodbye as it blew off into the lake.
As you can see from the photo, the boat is right in the canyon.
Before we boarded for our cruise I was eyeing off the nice big boats moored at the jetty and was disappointed when we embarked on our smaller vessel.
However, as we proceeded through the canyons, I soon understood that a smaller vessel was more manoeuvrable. Even so, on one of the cruises, the boat was so close to the canyon wall that one of the loud speakers was smashed. The cruise captains were just so skilled, they were fantastic.
Usually there are half day and full day cruises, with lunch provided on the full day ventures. On a hot day, if you choose to be on the top deck, drink plenty of water (provided) and take a hat and sunscreen. Just make sure that the hat ties on because someone on our cruise had to wave his hat goodbye as it blew off into the lake.
Before we boarded for our cruise I was eyeing off the nice big boats moored at the jetty and was disappointed when we embarked on our smaller vessel.
However, as we proceeded through the canyons, I soon understood that a smaller vessel was more manoeuvrable. Even so, on one of the cruises, the boat was so close to the canyon wall that one of the loud speakers was smashed. The cruise captains were just so skilled, they were fantastic.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Flyabout to Rawnsley Park, Flinders Ranges Video Clip 2
Another clip of a plane taxiing along the runway after landing at Rawnsley Park, Flinders Ranges, South Australia.
The strip is good and is located within view of the dominating Rawnsley Bluff, part of the famous Wilpena Pound. Just watch out for eagles in the air when coming in to land.
Because there's plenty of accommodation, this is a great place for a fly-in.
The strip is good and is located within view of the dominating Rawnsley Bluff, part of the famous Wilpena Pound. Just watch out for eagles in the air when coming in to land.
Because there's plenty of accommodation, this is a great place for a fly-in.
Friday, October 29, 2010
Feathered Fathers Coddle Cute Chicks - Exceptional Emus! Video Clip
During Off the Beaten Track, we did a day trip from Rawnsley Park to the Great Wall of China (a range of hills) in the Flinders Ranges, South Australia.
On the way, we saw several adult emus and about 14 chicks. The great thing about emus is that the fathers are the ones that usually babysit the young.
Just enjoy this short clip - the chicks are so cute.
Travel tips Australia Click Here!
Your guide to travelling Australia Click Here!
On the way, we saw several adult emus and about 14 chicks. The great thing about emus is that the fathers are the ones that usually babysit the young.
Just enjoy this short clip - the chicks are so cute.
Travel tips Australia Click Here!
Your guide to travelling Australia Click Here!
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Car Wash Country Style Video Clip
On the way home from Off the Beaten Track, I stopped to photograph some sheep in a paddock not far from Melrose, in the Southern Flinders Ranges.
Above the chorus of bleating lambs I could hear the sound of running water and went to investigate.
The side road crossed the creek and there in the middle of the crossing was a man cleaning his car.
Just goes to show how resourceful country people are. Not a "loo with a view" this time, but a "car wash with a view"!
Travel tips Australia Click Here!
Your guide to travelling Australia Click Here!
Above the chorus of bleating lambs I could hear the sound of running water and went to investigate.
The side road crossed the creek and there in the middle of the crossing was a man cleaning his car.
Just goes to show how resourceful country people are. Not a "loo with a view" this time, but a "car wash with a view"!
Travel tips Australia Click Here!
Your guide to travelling Australia Click Here!
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