The Magic of Hobbiton – Exploring Middle Earth

Nestled in New Zealand's North Island’s rolling hills, lies the magic of Hobbiton.  It has captured the hearts of J.R.R Tolkien's "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film and book fans all...

Auckland’s Whale & Dolphin Safari Promises To “Make Dreams Come True”

I will admit that, since I was a freckle faced child, I’ve been fascinated with the grace and beauty of dolphins.  Ancient Greeks recognised their beauty and killing one was considered sacrilegious and punishable...

Dunedin – Chocolate, Hops and Albatrosses

Update: Cadbury World closed permanently in May 2018 We only had two days and chose to focus on Cadbury World’s Tasting Tour, Speights’ Brewery Tour and a guided tour at the Royal Albatross Centre. Yet, Dunedin...

Discover the Hidden Gems of Fiordland

Nestled in the western corner of New Zealand’s South Island, Fiordland National Park is a World Heritage site and is the renowned home of breath-taking Milford Sound and Doubtful Sound. This region of New Zealand...
Jet boat performing 360-degree spins in the turquoise waters of Surfers Paradise on Australia’s Gold Coast

Experience the Ultimate Jet Boating Adventure on the Gold Coast

. Just a few minutes into our thrilling, 25-kilometre jet boating journey, I felt like James Bond racing down the Thames in The World Is Not Enough.  But we weren't in London.  We were speeding...

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...
Rafting group navigating through a narrow volcanic gorge on the Upper Navua River, surrounded by rugged rock formations and lush greenery in Fiji.

Upper Navua River Rafting: A Fijian Adventure

After years of apprehension, my wife and I finally plucked up the courage to tackle an Upper Navua River Rafting adventure. Several years ago, we tackled New Zealand's Tongariro River and Queenstown’s legendary Shotover...

The Gold Coast: A mecca for adrenalin rush & super-heroes

Australia’s Gold Coast boasts an endless playground for families and has become a mecca for theme-park addicts.  If you’re looking to brave some of the world’s tallest & fastest rides, interact with nature’s finest...

All’s fair in love and war on King Tutt’s Putt Putt mini-golf courses

“Mine’s the orange one” Cerys demands with a mischievous cheeky smile.“I’ll have the lilac one” adds Cerys’ friend Laura. The remaining choice hangs in the balance and my wife Karen saves me some embarrassment...

Australia’s Sunshine Coast – Sun, sea and koalas

It’s easy to understand why Australia’s “Sunshine Coast” is awarded its name. It has great weather all year round. Daily average temperature between 21 to 29 degrees. Swimming in the ocean is an all...