Day 13 – 18 April 2011 – “Blob Out” Day
Updated October 2021
We officially declared today a “blob out” day – government buildings and monuments were still closed and we had some packing to do.
Feeling a bit under the weather today, I had breakfast...
Rafting New Zealand serve up a white-water knuckle ride on Tongariro River
Updated: November 2018
"Any final tips?" Vladimir nervously asks our guide, Lee - not entirely sure that he really expects an honest answer. With a smile the width of the Tongariro River, the response is...
Hot and Spicy in India!
The colours and flavours of spices conjure up images of exotic lands and ancient times. Today, many of our favourite global cuisines use spices unique in texture, aroma, and taste.
India is the birthplace of...
Discover Majorca’s Blue Flag Beach Retreats
Majorca, one of Spain's Mediterranean Balearic Islands, is well known for beach resorts and sheltered coves, and its Roman and Moorish buildings.
When it comes to European holidays, you’re spoilt for choice. You might decide...
Encounter whales gorging on Auckland’s Hauraki Gulf’s seafood buffet
Many whale-watching excursions result in nothing more than sunburn, disappointment and a wasted day. My recent whale-watching trip with Auckland's Whale & Dolphin Safari certainly dispelled that myth.
With 6 weeks of Rugby World Cup...
Day 5 – 10 April 2011 – New Delhi and Match Day
Updated October 2021
I wasn’t sure what to expect today as it was a Sunday and I know from previous trips to India how busy Sundays are in India.
With my body screaming “give me a...
Madrid: A Harmonious Marriage of Classical and Contemporary Beauty
What's the Allure?
Although considered to be a fairly young capital city by European standards, Madrid has proudly held its prestigious position in Spain since the mid 16th century.
Since its inception in 1561, this classic...
72 Hours in Taupō, New Zealand
There’s so much to see and do in and around Taupō. Where do you begin? How much time do you need to visit Taupō?
To really experience Taupō you should plan for a minimum of...
An Unforgettable Afternoon with Sampa at Elefantastic
I’ll confess that I am neither overly fond of domestic pets or an animal activist. But that doesn’t mean that I’ll support animal cruelty or suffering.
Quite the opposite. I’ll further admit that I went...
Chasing Rainbows – Holi in Jaipur
Ah, Holi 2024 in Jaipur. A kaleidoscopic carnival of colours that I've danced through umpteen times! Picture this: me, a seasoned Holi enthusiast, diving headfirst into the riotous sea of hues that wash over...
















