Welcome to Auckland – The City of Sails
Auckland, home to approximately 1.5 million Kiwis, lies in the pacific Ocean’s far south-west. It’s New Zealand’s biggest city and provides an excellent base to explore the North Island’s hidden coves and scenic coast...
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...
Exploring Karni Mata Rat Temple
Introduction
India is well-known for its numerous religions, countless gods and goddesses, rituals, and many myths. Would it surprise you that it has a rat temple? No, I’m not kidding. It has!
It’s estimated more than...
Day 14 – 19 April 2011 – Sleep Deprived
Updated October 2021
Arrived just after 06:30 this morning from the overnight train from Jaipur and felt a tad groggy. This perhaps had something to do with trying to sleep on a noisy train in...
The Crown of Palaces – The Taj Mahal
Famous globally for its breathtaking beauty and mirror-like symmetry, the Taj Mahal is India’s most famous landmark. Located in Agra, it reportedly attracts more than 6 million visitors each year.
The Crown of Palaces
The Taj...
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...
The Algarve – Portugal’s Winter-less Region
Ever considered Portugal’s Algarve for a winter break from Northern Europe’s chilly winters?
So what makes The Algarve an ideal winter destination? For a start, temperatures consistently reach the high teens during daylight hours. And...
Upper Navua River Rafting: Beyond Fiji’s Beaches
Originally published 18 November 2024 · Updated 3 November 2026
We’d rafted the gentle Tongariro and survived the Shotover’s Grade IV and V rapids. Yet somehow, Fiji’s Upper Navua kept slipping to next time.
Rivers Fiji...
Maori History, Dolphins & Breath Taking Scenery in Paihia
Updated: November 2018
The Bay of Islands has been a favourite holiday spot for generations of Kiwi families. At its heart, lies the picturesque seaside village of Paihia, which offers a relaxed pace for locals...
10 Of My Favourite Bars and Restaurants With Stunning Views
Updated: September 2021
What could be more elegant than sipping cocktails on a roof-top bar? Or dining in a restaurant that has the most amazing killer views?
Whether you're perched, eagle like, above a neon-lit city;...
