Mid-Winter Escape, for a Very Special Reason

“There is time for everything.”

– Thomas A. Edison

In the middle of July we ran away from Sydney, into the tropics of North Queensland, to escape the cold, to have a quiet break, and… to get married. It’s time to share the pictures from those blissful, warm days. This trip was something we are not very used to – our holidays normally include driving around like crazy, sleeping in a different place every night, hiking, and wearing multiple layers of clothing. But all we kept ourselves busy with in Palm Cove was slow beach walks, hours at the pool, and figuring out where to eat next. And I liked it.

We woke up before sunrise every morning, and walked a couple of hundred metres to witness scenes like this:

This spot below is where our ceremony was held. Sweet memories:

Spending some quality time on the balcony, waiting for the rain to stop:

A day trip to Port Douglas and Mossman Gorge:

I am wondering if any unlucky tourist has ever been hit by one of these?

Serene and beautiful Mossman Gorge. Lush, green, and cool.

As we drove back to Palm Cove, we found a pebble beach. Which, to us, is rather exotic.

And then we visited Hartley’s Crocodile Adventures. To be completely honest, I could not watch the crocodile show – I was too scared to witness people entering the tiny puddle where this enormous croc was trying to relax, but was instead teased by dead chicken for people’s amusement. So I just sat next to the friendly koala instead and waited for the show to finish. The sandy croc below was found on the beach in Palm Cove the night before. Whoever made it – respect. It was life-size and accurate.

Another day, another beautiful sunrise above Coral Sea:

The big day arrived, and it could not have been more perfect:

The official start of the honeymoon. Our view every morning, while enjoying eggs, toast, and coffee. Peppers, we love you.

 Having our breakfast underneath the most beautiful gum trees:

After ten years together, it is now official:

Spent a day on the reef, snorkelling:

I even managed to get back to one of my passions – seascapes. Nothing as magical as watching the horizon getting brighter and brighter while waiting for the three-minute exposure to finish. The results are something that never fails to mesmerize me:

The time after day ends is so very beautiful too:

Where we spent our days:

See you next time, Palm Cove. You were wonderful to us.

Sonia - August 21, 2013 - 8:51 pm

I know I’m very boring in my comments but I just have to say again that also these pictures are magical! Well done to my favourite photographer!

Mel Riddell - August 21, 2013 - 9:14 pm

This is one of the most gorgeous blog posts I’ve seen ever. I love every image, just magical. You are truly an incredible photographer and your trip looks divine! Congratulations!!! Love the photo of your hands together. Stunning. Makes me want to go back to Palm Cove so much. Love xx

Belinda - August 22, 2013 - 4:07 pm

Like Mel, I can honestly say this is one of the most beautiful blog posts I’ve ever laid witness too. I really don’t know if I can find the words Anastasia. Breathtaking! If you ever tire of wedding photography there is surely a place for you at National Geographic magazine. And if you ever want to run a photography workshop, I’d be there in a flash! Congratulations again on your wedding and may your life together be filled with many, many more magical holidays like Palm Cove xoxo

Anastasia - August 22, 2013 - 7:56 pm

Ladies, I am completely blown away by your comments. Thank you so much for your words, they mean the world to me! Hugs xxx

Cindy Habel - October 30, 2013 - 12:47 pm

Anastasia…Congratulations to you and your new husband!!! What a very special holiday, honeymoon and wedding…and every image tells the magical story. Stunning work! xo

Anastasia - October 31, 2013 - 7:06 am

Thank you so much Cindy! xxx

CV Love - November 29, 2013 - 4:10 am

Hello!
First of all thanks for the sympathetic comments to my blog because fezchegar here.
Loved the pictures, I went back to 4 days trip from Australia and loved my journey I hope one day to return.
xoxo
CV Love