From Sunshine Coast to Surfer's Paradise

Trust me, had I been a twenty year old blushing bride being asked for my opinion on the perfect honeymoon destination by an adoring , well heeled groom, I would have coyly said, "Why not the Gold Coast in Australia, ji?" Truly, it is a one stop destination for those who have time, money and romance on their minds. Adventure, too. Surfer's Paradise is fantastic even for people who don't surf. After a hot , muggy day at the Australian Zoo which could as easily be renamed the Steve Irwin 'shrine' ( don't know what else to call it... though Crickey sounds good), I thought the heat would get me, and get me good. I had said hello to DJ,the great big rhino, and patted several koalas, fed a couple of kangaroos, met the Bengal tigers, stroked the Indian elephants and generally bonded with assorted beasts and birds, I was ready to attack something more human. But not before appreciating the animal hospital which lovingly takes care of sick giraffes and dying owls. The zoo, will soon see an expansion with nearly 200 additional acres to accommodate new arrivals. Meanwhile, Steve Irwin's friendly ghost oversees all operations,along with wife Terry and with Bindi , his daughter, as the star performer in all promotional videos.

 Oh well... here I am on the 41st floor of Q1, which is the Gold Coast's latest showpiece. The bar on the 77th floor can be reached in 43 seconds, and my ears were popping by the time we reached it to catch the spectacular sunset. I saw quite a few Japanese honeymooners and once again thought of Bunty and Babli having a great time here. The smart manager told me this was the place to be in on New Year's eve - on top of the world, with fireworks lighting up the magnificent coast line and a live band playing to the local champagne set. Sure. At $90 it is a far cheaper option to any comparable place in Mumbai\Delhi.

 The long , hot day ended at a restaurant on the Marina Mirage complex, called Omeros Bros  - old fashioned, classy and honest with customers. Forget the prawns tonight, said our attentive waiter, stick to the snapper. Good decision. More tomorrow...