I finally saw a dingo, famous wild dogs of Australia. He was casually sleeping in the middle of the road on the hot asphalt, not minding me a bit as I was slowing driving pass him. I could even have pet him maybe, but decided on not risking losing a finger or two.

I passed by the “Devil’s Marbles”, a sacred place for aborigines women.

Some old building by the road.

Beautiful bird, but sadly seemed wounded, as when he saw me, he simply limped away, slowly, looking weak.

The road near MacDonnell range, in the outskirts of Alice Springs.

A strange spiky lizard…

I was explained that kangaroos are hard to see at day, as under the sun and the heat they rather sleep in the shade of trees. But i was lucky enough to spot a pack of them a little outside Alice Spring. Now I just hope I’ll get to see some jumping around before I leave!

Two things from my driving experience so far. First, it’s initially even harder than I thought. We are so used to drive instinctively and mechanically that I had to fight every single details while driving. It’s almost like fighting against yourself. The second remark is: thankfully I got quickly used to it. I was afraid I’d need a few days, but even after an hour I was getting comfortable. Still, nothing like driving in America, my mind needs to concentrate to a certain level constantly. “Keep your left! Keep your left!” I repeat in my my head when I need to maneuver at an intersection.

So Friday was pretty much about doing nothing, relaxing at the hotel, walking around a bit, hoping to beat the jet lag. Which I did, yey! The inner court where I spent most of the day sleeping, and a few pics from around the hotel:

This morning I woke up at 6am, top shape. I jumped in my car, and started my Australian adventure toward the South! Quickly I got myself into the Bush, looking pretty and wild, the way I imagined it.

After a few hours of driving I eventually stop and get a motel room in a small town called Katherine. I spent much of this afternoon visiting around town, including the Katherine Gorge.

My favorite find today was an hot spring, where I spent a couple hours just floating in peace.

Only little problem: there’s a sign to warn that there IS crocodile going there once in a while. I felt safe because there was quite a bit of people, but let say I would NOT be the first to jump in it in the morning…

Alright, I’m done with internet, and shall return to that hot spring for more evening soaking goodness. Here’s some more random photos:

Just in time for my trip to Australia in September!