This week I turned 23! Unlike 21 where I was legally able to drink alcohol worldwide and 22 where I could listen to Taylor Swift on repeat, at the milestone of 23 I couldn't see too much to look forward to. I'm now a proper adult and the song 'Whats my Age Again?' by Blink 182 which features the lyrics 'No one likes you when you're 23' is pretty accurate! All this didn't stop me from celebrating though, if in a more toned down and classy way than years previous. I called my parents at 9am to continue our tradition of opening presents and cards with them in bed. My friends and family were very generous and I felt very special, especially with them remembering with me being so far away! My roommates surprised me with a cake, bunting, paper hats and a cake and present from my Aussie family. It was so sweet and my cake came complete with Tim Tams, giving it that Australian touch! Friends came over and we cut the cake and opened my present, the most beautiful dress which I wore later that day. Midday we headed to Circular Quay to catch the ferry over to Manly. Of course, as everyone managed to get on the departing ferry last minute my Opal didn't have enough money and I had to wait with Katherine for the next ferry as everyone headed straight to the beach. Finally, we got to Manly and walked around to Shelly Beach, one of my favorites for its smooth waters and idyllic scenery. Having my first hot birthday was a fun experience as for the first time I sunbathed and swam in the sea. As you walk around to Shelly Beach there is a small salt water pool. Me and Sian headed over to investigate and it was gorgeous! Calm sea water with a rocky bottom, perfect for swimming and relaxing. We took some photos and I went to investigate the ice cream situation. Next to the pools there is a small shack selling ice creams, water and other small items. After confirming he didn't take card instead of turning us away he offered us both samples. After Sian mentioned it was my birthday he gave us both free ice creams, what a sweetheart! Go give this man some love if you're ever in Shelly! Some of the gang headed back after this for work, so as Katherine and Stephanie sunbathed, me and Owen went for a little adventure. From Shelly there are paths leading to North Head lookout. There's also many points to check out the view through the bush. We watched the surfers and scuba divers and found a lizard on our little walk too! After another quick swim and scramble on the rocks for a view we started heading back over to Manly and some cocktails. I chose Havana Beach for it's beach front location and happy hour $10 cocktails. There was loads of choice including unique Mojito's and Daiquiris as well as a huge section of Margaritas. We also grabbed some food and had the biggest Nacho Bowl I've ever seen! Had a great waitress and was the perfect end to the day. I definitely recommend checking out this little gem if you're in Manly. We headed back to Manly Wharf in time to catch the sunset and made our way back to the city very full and sleepy. We all headed to bed pretty soon after getting back home so we must have be pooped! My birthday was filled with sun, sea, cocktails and friends, what more can you want?!
23 was a great if very different birthday and I can't wait for the exciting times ahead this year!
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Hi! I'm Holly, a twenty something traveller from the UK. Over the years I've been lucky enough to live and travel in many countries. I've studied in America and working holidayed in Australia and New Zealand! I currently live in South Korea. Learn more about me below!
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