“Hey Emma – so where do you actually live?”
Excellent question! And one I get SO often!
Though I’ve had a permanent address of Coogee in Sydney for more than 2.5 years, I was always on the move. That’s kinda my life. But for now, I am loving the Gold Coast vibe where my lovely partner is now living and working!
I’ve also been running a pet sitting business since January this year, Lovelly Pet Sitters. We care for pets in their own homes so that has me moving around from house to house, and even pet sitting interstate. I’m in a new suburb each week – a great way to explore new areas and spend time with lovely animals.
In September, my partner Matt got a new job! He’s now a diver at Sea World Australia and he moved three and a half weeks after he got the call. It was all very quick and exciting. Just the way I like it really. So here we are! The Goldie. Though I’m always traveling, I try and spend as much time as possible with him there. Follow our adventures on Instagram using the tag #EmmaMattyGCLife. Oh and our mascot, #PhilliptheDugong.
Let’s be honest, I’m still commuting. At the drop of a hat, I could move elsewhere, so I am just making the most of this and living it up in the popular tourist destination. Gold Coast is so different when you actually spend a concentrated amount of time there.
Here are some of my favourite things I like to do whenever I am in and around The Goldie.
Broadwater Parklands
This gorgeous new development is just at the end of our road! Gold Coast Council have reconstructed the entire area in preparation for the 2018 Commonwealth Games. It’s got walking and cycle tracks, play areas for children, cafes, an Olympic pool and gym, entertainment areas, access to the water and the most gorgeous rock pool play area! It’s also filled with native wildlife and many places for birds to be free. I head there almost every day for a walk or cycle and look forward to exploring the waterways by Stand Up Paddle board in the near future.
Cycling – anywhere and everywhere
I bought a bike! It was like I was five years old again. So shiny, so new! So much room for activities! I can take a number of cycle paths from my place to explore the area. The Gold Coast is extremely bike friendly and it really shows in how many people are out enjoying cycling or using it as a way to commute. You just want to get out and be active!
Tamborine Mountain
A gorgeous scenic drive from Southport up to Tamborine takes just 40 minutes. I’ve been up there most weekends since we moved and it’s actually a great way to cool down on the hotter days. There are loads of walking trails and lookout points to see the hinterland. You’ve also got wineries, B&B’s, cafes and the gallery of shops. It’s a great half day out or even overnight get away if you need a break from the heat and the beach. Don’t miss the Fortitude Brewery, amazing vibes and fine brews.
We of course made this one of our first stops, as Matt now works there. It was really nice to be tourists though and enjoy it with fresh eyes, and a little insider info. The animals are so beautiful and I really can see myself heading here often, just chilling with the sea creatures and learning more about our marine life. We also had perfect weather, so that helps!
Pool hangs
So this one isn’t really accessible to everyone, as this is actually the pool at his apartment. But my advice is book accommodation with a pool. It’s so lovely to look out his window and see this each day and spend lunch breaks catching some sun and having a refreshing dip.
I really hope to share as much of my experience while I’m here as possible. Tips and info on the best places to go, as well as some of our personal adventures! I have no idea how long he’ll be there or what’s next in our chapter, but for now, I’m enjoying it!
Lovelly Travels 