Townsville City, Willie Wagtails, and Boatyard Blues: Our Unexpected Stop in Australia

Did we plan on being in Australia now? No.

Are we enjoying it? Yes. 

Well, for the most part… 

Right now, Rhapsody is hauled out at Rosshaven Marina in Townsville City —yes, Townsville City , because apparently naming a place “Town” and “Village” wasn't enough—waiting for some repairs. Being at the whim of other people's schedules under the unrelenting tropical sun is… let's just say character-building (and yes, sun hats are essential survival gear ). Yesterday, a breeze finally stirred, and for two glorious minutes, it felt like victory. Then it died again.

Welcome to boat life: patience, repairs, repeat.

Four Months on Land: Reflections from a Long-Term Traveler

For the past eight years, Bob and I have been long-term travelers, calling our sailboat, Rhapsody, home as we explored the world. But now, for the first time in nearly a decade, we’ve stepped away from the water for an extended land-based journey. And let me tell you—traveling on land as a long-term traveler feels very different from both life aboard and the short, whirlwind experiences of vacationers.

A Slow Boat Down the Mekong: Faster than Rhapsody, But Who’s Counting?

When you hear "slow boat down the Mekong," you might imagine a leisurely, tranquil journey, gently drifting along one of Southeast Asia's most famous rivers. "Slow Boat" is not just a descriptor, it is what these boats are called. And sure, it's all of that—unless you're comparing it to our sailboat, Rhapsody. Then it’s more of a brisk jog. For two days, Bob and I embraced the role of passengers, a rare treat for sailors, who are used to being the captains of our own chaos.