stories about specific experiences. May be cultural, visual or adventures
Point to point hiking is easy in this country of outdoorsmen and women. Tramping is an activity it seems everyone participates. An industry catering to trampers was inevitable and provides easy access to the wilderness to tourists and backpackers.
Abel Tasman, Queen Charlotte and Kune Kune Read More »
Usually in my year end postcard I brag about the number of countries we have visited (and there are a lot); and I count up the miles traveled (and there are a lot). The number of hotels we have slept in (again, a lot). This year is going to be different, although we have never felt luckier. We covered two countries in 2020: Australia and New Zealand. We were not on even one train (our preferred mode of travel). There were a lot of hotels, and holiday rentals. We rented one car, and we are still in it; we should have brought the thing.
Happy New Year’s from the Southern Hemisphere Read More »
One of the secrets to our travel is a blend of tourist activities, all the must-do’s, and getting off the beaten track. Lots of tourists think they get off the beaten track: they walk a street parallel to the main tourist drag and think they have “gone native”. True the street over will be less touristy, less ambiance, and probably cheaper, while often better food. Good on you. But to get way off the tourist track, our formula is house sitting.
Kia Ora from the most Southerly Civilization Read More »
Our extended vacation in New Zealand has allowed us to witness many changes. But nothing better than the emergence of Spring.
Spring has Sprung in New Zealand Read More »
We were advised that this trail is not for the faint of heart. That it is for experienced riders only; expect narrow trails, steep long inclines, hazards and shear drop offs. OK, so we expected a cliff, some narrow trails and some rocks, but probably not at the same time, and probably not all of the time. Noooo. This trail was definitely not oversold.
We have a new winner Read More »
For the past six months we have described our situation as “Stuck in New Zealand”. But to be honest, we have been more than happy to be here; and we really thought we could leave if we wanted to do so. Well… we can’t. What?? Seems as though when every country on earth says “No US citizens”, they mean it.
We were only joking! Read More »
Traveling during the pandemic is tricky. Flights are scarce, and expensive. Think about it, fewer planes, and less seats on those planes because of the social distancing. Each country posts entry requirements (that change rapidly). And each airline interprets those rules a little differently. Some countries will not accept travelers from some other countries. Like almost nowhere in the world are Americans able to travel right now unless they are essential.
Travel in Covid-Times Read More »
A couple good New Zealand hikes worth a mention. Mt Cook National Park, hiking under glaciers and nearby. Hooker Valley Track – our favorite.
Tramping Mt Cook National Park and Environs Read More »
We have tasted our way through the Otago wine region. And mountain biked some of New Zealand’s most famed trails.
Wine Tasting and Biking Otago Read More »
We are out of the campervan. Enjoyed it, but we were happy to give it back. We are traveling the south of the South island. We are starting to count our days left in NZ and plan some fun. Only about 6 weeks to go. It is going to be sad to leave here; this country has taken our hearts. We are really lucky to be here: no covid (knock on wood) and no other tourists to compete with, and lots of deals.
Wandering Wannabe Kiwis Check-in from Akaroa, New Zealand Read More »
