Fun for Free: Snorkeling in the Merri Marine Sanctuary

I have always been told that the Merri Marine Sanctuary in Warrnambool has some pretty nice snorkeling spots, but I have never experienced them for myself until yesterday. The Merri Marine Sanctuary boasts some amazing ocean views, especially along the walkway that runs from Stingray Bay to Thunder Point. And that is just above sea level. Under the water, there are even more amazing sights to see, and you can even swim to the outskirts of Merri Island–just not Middle Island, as it is off limits to the public–and see things from a totally new perspective!

Now that I have gotten a taste of snorkeling outside of the swimming pool–yeah, that’s what land-locked Americans do–I am hooked! One of these days, I am going to go spearfishing, though I have to find somewhere outside of the Merri Marine Sanctuary, as it is a no-take zone. But fear not, there are plenty of aquatic adventures yet to be had, and I will keep you posted on the best of them.

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Heating Up

You never would have guessed based on the chilly, rainy weather that welcomed me to Australia nearly two weeks ago, but Victoria can actually be quite a nice place in the summer. In the last week or so, the sun has decided to come out, and the temperature has been rising gradually from around 23˚C (73˚F) to a scorching 40˚C (104˚F). It is only about 10:00AM as I am sitting here writing this, but I am already beginning to think that having a cup of hot tea this morning was not my brightest idea.

With this gorgeous weather, I am making the most of what Warrnambool has to offer in the way of outdoor activities. This past Friday, I headed down to the Lake Pertobe night markets with a friend. Heaps of local vendors had set up stalls by the lake, and the place was filled with locals and holidaymakers alike. There were all sorts of foods, jewellery, and clothing, not unlike the flea market that I once visited in Frankfurt, Germany. With chai latte and fairy floss (cotton candy) in hand, I soaked up the great atmosphere.

And then of course there is the beach. Maybe it is my passion for marine biology, but I can never seem to get enough of the ocean. From walking along the Merri Marine Sanctuary and looking out at the breathtaking ocean views, to relaxing on the beach with more sunscreen than I would care to admit, to working on my surfing and bruising practically every part of my body, there is always something to do! I have heard that Warrnambool beaches pale in comparison to those in other parts of Australia, but I am thoroughly enjoying them while I am here. People may laugh at my astonishment when I can see my feet in several feet of water, but this is definitely a step up from the beaches back home!

Looking outside right now, there is not a cloud in the clear blue sky, and I cannot wait to go to the beach for the sixth day in a row! Like most days, I do not know exactly what today will bring, but I am looking forward to taking on whatever adventure comes my way. I think the laid-back, less stressed out Australian lifestyle is doing me some good.