Birthday 2009

I've been travelling for some time now. And I plan to do it again.

Like most travellers I've noticed how little I really need, as well as how difficult storage can be for the things I do want to hold onto at home. So this year I thought I'd offer anyone thinking of giving me a birthday present an alternative option to giving me a physical present.

Please don't think that this means you must or even should buy something from the list below. Sending me a message, giving me a call or catching up with me on the day is more than enough to give me warm fuzzies inside. And really, that's the whole point of it, isn't it?

I plan this year to jet off again and knock a few more 'must see' places off my Europe list as well as visit some dear friends. Your gift will become part of my experience, and I promise to let you know what it was like and send a postcard if you give me your address details. You can, if you like, suggest a gift of your own too if you like.

I will be setting up paypal so you can transact through there although handing it over personally will mean more of your gift goes towards my trip, rather than fees. All prices are in Australian dollars.

Cairns, Australia
A day's diving and snorkelling on the great barrier reef: $160
One way journey on the Kurana scenic railway pass: $40
Underwater camera: $20

Brittany and Normandy, France
A serving of traditional buckwheat crepes: $20

Spain
Entrance to the Guggenheim in Bilbao: $21
Ticket to a football match at Camp Nou: $60
A flamenco performance: $22

Portugal
1/2 dozen custard tarts: $10
Dinner in Alfama to hear fado being played: $30
A day cruise of port-wine country: $120

London, UK
A cricket match at Lord's or the Oval: $21

Boulder, USA
A taste of local microbrew: $11