Greeting Bowral, Australia with Wide-Eyed Wonder
With my vintage compass in hand and DSLR camera slung over my shoulder, I stepped off the train into the quaint town of Bowral, nestled in the Southern Highlands of New South Wales, Australia.
My very first impression? It was a smorgasbord of visual delight. Gorgeous colonial style buildings accented by verdant landscapes and stunning gardens. I couldn’t help but feel that Bowral was going to be a charmer, a place that echoed my love for the whimsical and the off-beat.
A Tourist Scam, A Tough Lesson Learned
My initial enthusiasm for Bowral soured slightly just a few hours into my exploration. A local ‘guide’ approached me, offering an exclusive tour of some hidden gems for a fee. With my disdain for tourist traps notched up a few levels, I hesitated but my adventurous spirit got the better of me. Long story short, the ‘tour’ was a scam. I paid a pretty penny for a brief walk around common landmarks that even the most clueless tourist could stumble upon themselves. It served as a valuable reminder: Not everyone you meet on the road has your best interests at heart. Sometimes, trusting your instincts and doing a bit of independent research pays off better than any guidebook tip!
Finding Joy at The Courtyard Bowral
Part of the joy of travelling is letting go of expectations, and in Bowral, I reignited a sense of wonder at The Courtyard Bowral. This enchanting boutique offered an array of antique furniture, home décor and art pieces. It was like meandering through a vivid watercolour painting. I reveled in the chance to explore each unique piece, my mind already spinning tales of their origins and journeys. Owning a piece from The Courtyard Bowral isn’t just buying an item; it’s investing in a story.
The Inhouse Chef: A Gastronomical Adventure
I’m no stranger to culinary adventures. From devouring sushi in Kyoto to relishing Irish stew in Dublin, food is a big piece of my travel puzzle. So, when locals pointed me towards the Inhouse Chef, I knew I was in for a treat.
Walking in, I was met with a homely atmosphere and the delicious aroma of freshly baked pastries. Suffice to say, it was love at first bite. The pastries were as soft as clouds, melting in my mouth with a burst of flavour. The highlight of my gastronomical adventure, though, was the chef’s specialty salmon. Perfectly seared, paired with a zesty salad – it was a delightful symphony of flavours and texture.
Departing Bowral with a Spring in my Step
Leaving Bowral, I was richer in experience, carrying a heartful of memories, a quirky coffee mug, and an unexpected (but valuable) lesson about mindfulness in my travels.
Did my journey to Bowral go exactly as planned? Not quite. Was I disenchanted by that one negative incident? Temporarily. But if travelling has taught me anything, it’s that the journey is just as important, if not more, than the destination. If ever you find yourself in Bowral, don’t shy away from the local experiences but always remember to trust your instincts and immerse yourself in the true pulse of the town.
There is beauty in every corner of the world, sometimes in the most surprising of ways. And through this colourful tapestry of experiences, I hope to inspire you to seek out the lesser-known, culturally rich destinations like Bowral, with its charm and character that’s just waiting to be discovered.