August 3: It’s All Good At Alva Beach

I’ve been picking up more expressions as I travel throughout Australia and am becoming fond of “It’s all good,” an expression of hope, positivity, and kindness that seems to be applicable to almost any circumstance. You’re arriving at your hotel on time? It’s all good. You’re going to be late? All good. You need to cancel? All good. With everyone being so darn friendly, I’ve made it a point to stay two nights at the same location when I do a tour, allowing me to interact more with locals.

Arriving at Alva Beach the day before my deep dive down to the world famous Yongala Wreck, I checked in with the dive shop and got settled in the dormitory style youth hostel across the street from their office.

The accommodation turned out to be ideal as I was able to meet several of the tour staff and two other guests. With all the bunk beds, couch, and kitchen in one room and the one stall toilet and shower in the backyard, we all had plenty of opportunities to touch bases about the logistics for the dive, talk about about our travels, and share our future plans.

The honey-colored sandy beach was a short walk away in this delightful small hamlet right on the ocean. With the weather being so warm and sunny, I was able to stroll along the wet sand left in the receding tide, admiring the views of the bright blue Coral Sea and the light brown curved land mass that gives the town a sheltered feel.

Taking the time to appreciate the scenery, cook in the kitchen with the staff and guests, and enjoy conversation well into the night was wonderfully relaxing and inspirational. What a great day on the road!