GONE FISHING

Andy Chan

Hello everyone! Today I want to share a truly memorable adventure I had this month. It wasn’t just a typical trip; it was the first time this year that my group of old friends finally managed to get together!

Our destination was Royal National Park, a stunning natural escape located just about an hour’s drive from Sydney.

A Jurassic Park-Style Atmosphere

The moment we stepped into the park, I felt like I had been transported straight into a scene from Jurassic Park! The lush green bush, the magnificent forest with its towering trees, and the vast grasslands looking out over the endless blue ocean were breathtaking. The beaches here are so unspoilt, and the coastal walking tracks offer some of the best views I’ve ever seen.

Adventure to the Figure Eight Pools

We started our journey with a one-hour trek down from the mountain top, making our way toward Burning Palms Beach and our main goal: the Figure Eight Pools.

I was quite surprised to see so many tourists at the pools! It added a lively energy to the atmosphere while we set up to do some fishing.

Fun That Comes With a Challenge

This trip definitely put our legs to the test:

The Way Down: A relatively easy and pleasant walk, enjoying the scenery all the way to our fishing spot.

The Way Home: This was the real challenge! Because we had to head back up the steep hills and stay mindful of loose rocks, it took us much longer to get back.

The Aftermath: By the end of the day, we could definitely feel the body aches and leg cramps, but comparing that to the laughter and joy we shared, it was worth every bit of effort!

The Grand Finale: “Fish Khao Poon”

Fortune was on our side because we caught several fish! We shared the catch among the group to take home. As for me, I used my share to prepare one of my absolute favorite Lao dishes: Khao Poon (ເຂົ້າປຸ້ນ).

There is something incredibly special about the aroma of Khao Poon broth made from fresh sea fish you caught yourself. It made the meal taste better than any I’ve ever had!

This trip wasn’t just about the fish we brought home; it was about reconnecting with friends and creating wonderful memories together. If you’re ever in Sydney, make sure you take the time to experience the magic of Royal National Park!