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If you're dreaming of wild coastlines, serene alpine lakes, and untouched forests, New Zealand might be already on your radar. Beyond the bustling hubs of Queenstown, Rotorua , and Auckland, this island nation hides treasures few travelers ever see.

Off the beaten path, you'll find the spots where the locals go and silence is only broken by birdsong or crashing waves. Let me share some of these special gems, and the best time to visit.

1. South Island:

• A short hike from where you park your car, tucked away at the northwestern tip of the South Island, near Cape Farewell, lies Whararike Beach, a rugged paradise, or as I call it "Nature's Untamed Canvas", presenting you with wind-sculpted dunes, dramatic sea arches, and curious seals basking on the rocks. Also a great place to capture sunrises and sunsets.
• On the opposite end, at the southeastern corner of South Island, you will get a glimpse at New Zealand's  rawest side, the Catlins a rugged, windswept stretch of coastline, full of surprises.  But this is a different kind of coastline. Instead of palm trees along the beach, you can explore dense ancient forests and waterfalls like Purakaunui, or spot yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions on isolated beaches.
• Only a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, South Island, but worlds away in mood, peacefully, surrounded by mountains you'll run into Moke Lake. Whether you're into stargazing, short hikes or paddle-boarding, this quiet lake offers a slower pace in an otherwise adrenaline-fueled region.
• If you feel like stepping into a postcard, visit the tranquil Alpine escape at Nelson Lakes National Park. Crystal clear lakes like Rotoroa and Rotoiti, surrounded by lush beach forests and snow-capped peaks, this is a true paradise for hikers and campers without having to deal with the Fjord-land crowds.

2. North Island:

• If you are looking for easy scenic walks with peaceful nature vibes, take a stroll down the Te Waihou Walkway near Putaruru, Waikato on North Island. This walkway will take you to the mesmerizing Blue Spring. The water here filters through volcanic rock for a century before emerging. The water is so clear, it looks unreal. The water from the Blue Spring is New Zealand's main source of bottled water.
• Far from the crowds, the East Cape of North Island is steeped in Maori culture, coastal beauty, and slow-living charm. Near Opotike, explore the epic trail that winds through native bush and along the coastline on Motu Trails, on bicycle.
• Embark on a historic road trip through time on the Forgotten World Highway SH43. From Taranaki to Taumarunui, this forgotten highway will take you on a scenic drive through ghost towns, one-lane tunnels, remote farmland, and the quirky "Republic of Whangamonmona"- a little town that declared independence in protest and to date still celebrates its 'national day' every two years.

3. Stewart Island:

• Only about 1 % of travelers make it to Stewart Island, one of the very few places where you can experience wild Kiwi birds in the open and view the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) during  clear winter nights.

4. Best Time To Visit:

New Zealand is one of the few places on earth that is beautiful to visit all year around. Depending on what you're after.....

• Spring (Sep-Nov) is perfect, if you're looking to experience, fewer crowds, blooming flowers, and baby animals
• Summer (Dec-Feb) is the busiest season, when most of the festivals happen, and also best for beach and hiking enthusiasts.
• Fall (Mar-May) is great to see New Zealand dressed in fall colors and enjoy the crisp air.
• Winter (Jun-Aug) is the perfect time to visit for skiing and watching the Southern Lights.
• Local tip: For fewer tourists and great weather, visit during late spring (Oct-Nov) or early fall (Mar-April)

  If you're dreaming of wild coastlines, serene alpine lakes, and untouched forests, New Zealand might be already on your radar. Beyond the bustling hubs of Queenstown, Rotorua , and Auckland, this island nation hides treasures few travelers ever see.

  Off the beaten path, you'll find the spots where the locals go and silence is only broken by birdsong or crashing waves. Let me share some of these special gems, and the best time to visit.

   

  1. South Island:

  • A short hike from where you park your car, tucked away at the northwestern tip of the South Island, near Cape Farewell, lies Whararike Beach, a rugged paradise, or as I call it "Nature's Untamed Canvas", presenting you with wind-sculpted dunes, dramatic sea arches, and curious seals basking on the rocks. Also a great place to capture sunrises and sunsets.
  • On the opposite end, at the southeastern corner of South Island, you will get a glimpse at New Zealand's  rawest side, the Catlins a rugged, windswept stretch of coastline, full of surprises.  But this is a different kind of coastline. Instead of palm trees along the beach, you can explore dense ancient forests and waterfalls like Purakaunui, or spot yellow-eyed penguins and sea lions on isolated beaches.
  • Only a 20-minute drive from Queenstown, South Island, but worlds away in mood, peacefully, surrounded by mountains you'll run into Moke Lake. Whether you're into stargazing, short hikes or paddle-boarding, this quiet lake offers a slower pace in an otherwise adrenaline-fueled region.
  • If you feel like stepping into a postcard, visit the tranquil Alpine escape at Nelson Lakes National Park. Crystal clear lakes like Rotoroa and Rotoiti, surrounded by lush beach forests and snow-capped peaks, this is a true paradise for hikers and campers without having to deal with the Fjord-land crowds.

   

  2. North Island:

  • If you are looking for easy scenic walks with peaceful nature vibes, take a stroll down the Te Waihou Walkway near Putaruru, Waikato on North Island. This walkway will take you to the mesmerizing Blue Spring. The water here filters through volcanic rock for a century before emerging. The water is so clear, it looks unreal. The water from the Blue Spring is New Zealand's main source of bottled water.
  • Far from the crowds, the East Cape of North Island is steeped in Maori culture, coastal beauty, and slow-living charm. Near Opotike, explore the epic trail that winds through native bush and along the coastline on Motu Trails, on bicycle.
  • Embark on a historic road trip through time on the Forgotten World Highway SH43. From Taranaki to Taumarunui, this forgotten highway will take you on a scenic drive through ghost towns, one-lane tunnels, remote farmland, and the quirky "Republic of Whangamonmona"- a little town that declared independence in protest and to date still celebrates its 'national day' every two years.

   

  3. Stewart Island:

  • Only about 1 % of travelers make it to Stewart Island, one of the very few places where you can experience wild Kiwi birds in the open and view the Aurora Australis (Southern Lights) during  clear winter nights.

   

  4. Best Time To Visit:

  New Zealand is one of the few places on earth that is beautiful to visit all year around. Depending on what you're after.....

  • Spring (Sep-Nov) is perfect, if you're looking to experience, fewer crowds, blooming flowers, and baby animals
  • Summer (Dec-Feb) is the busiest season, when most of the festivals happen, and also best for beach and hiking enthusiasts.
  • Fall (Mar-May) is great to see New Zealand dressed in fall colors and enjoy the crisp air.
  • Winter (Jun-Aug) is the perfect time to visit for skiing and watching the Southern Lights.
  • Local tip: For fewer tourists and great weather, visit during late spring (Oct-Nov) or early fall (Mar-April)

   

  It's easy to see why the fantasy trilogy Lord of the Rings picked New Zealand as their movie set. But New Zealand is more than just a movie set and bungee jumps. Beyond the tourist guide books lies a deeper version of this mesmerizing and friendly island nation filled with ancient forests, unexpected magic, and welcoming locals. Whether you are road tripping, watching seals, penguins, and kiwis or hiking, Aotearoa's hidden gems will reward you with unforgettable memories and stories to tell for years to come.

   

  Happy Travels

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

   

Planning a destination wedding is so exciting- just imagine saying your "I DO" with ocean waves or mountain peaks as your backdrop, but can also be overwhelming at times. You can either hire a wedding planner who will handle every detail for you, or bypass the wedding planner, save money you could apply to your honeymoon, instead, and work with a travel agent. With the right travel professional, you can plan a seamless, memorable wedding without the hefty price tag of a traditional wedding planner. So, when and where do we start, and why working with a travel agent may just be the perfect wedding planning solution for you?

1. Start Early: Ideally, start planning and reserving your destination and venue 12-18 months before the Big Day.

2. Why use a Travel Agent Instead of a Wedding Planner? Travel Agents specialize in logistics from booking flights, hotels, groups (your wedding party and other guests), and activities to navigating local regulations. Your travel agent may even have insights on resorts that offer a free wedding and reception, with a minimum group booking of rooms.

A travel agent will:

• Help you choose the perfect destination and venue based on your style and budget.
• Coordinate group travel and accommodations for the bride and groom, the wedding party, and all the guests. 
• Liaise with the on-site coordinators at resorts or venues.
• Offer insider tips on timing, weather, and legal marriage requirements in your destination country.

A great travel agent is your behind-the-scenes organizer, negotiator, and destination expert - often at no extra cost to you (ME)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Planning with a Travel Agent:

• Set your Budget and Guest Count before diving into choosing destinations or venues. Know your budget and headcount. Your travel agent needs this information to recommend the best locations and deals.

4. Picking a Destination and Venue: When deciding on a destination, take into consideration that destinations outside the country will require everybody to have valid passports. Also, consider the time of year and weather at the destination. Based on your preferences, whether it is tropical, mountains, beach, perhaps even a castle,  theme, adventure, or off the beaten path, your travel agent will narrow down possible resorts or venues that match your preferences, offer wedding packages, and perhaps even include free coordinators.

5. YAY, You have chosen your Dream Wedding Destination: Time to reserve your special date and travel plans. Your travel agent will block out dates, negotiate group rates, and create a custom booking portal for your guests. 

6. Work With the On-Site Wedding Coordinator: Once your travel agent has everything locked in, you will be introduced to your wedding coordinator, who will help you decide on everything, from flowers to cake, menu, photographer, and ceremony set up.

7. Plan the Extras for Before and After the Wedding:  Your travel agent will also help you plan activities, excursions, welcome dinners, and farewell brunches for your wedding guests.

8. Tips for a Smooth Experience: 

• Stay organized: Keep all of your emails, contracts, travel documents, and guest RSVPs in folders in one place.
• Communicate OFTEN: Stay in touch with both your travel agent and on-site coordinator. 
• Obtain necessary documents: Make sure your passport is up to date and valid for at least 6 months beyond completion of travel (requirement for most foreign countries). If visas or proof of vaccination documents are required, make sure to obtain these, ahead of travel as well. Your wedding coordinator will handle the wedding formalities, so make sure to follow up with your coordinator. 
• Visit if You Can: If you can, a pre-wedding trip to the destination can help finalize any loose ends and ease nerves. Your travel agent will set this up for you.

Planning a destination wedding without a wedding planner is absolutely doable - especially when you team up with a skilled travel agent. From booking your dream venue to handling your guests' travel needs, your travel agent will help bring your vision to life with less stress and more fun. With the right support, your destination wedding will be an unforgettable, magical, and beautifully orchestrated celebration. 

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HAPPY TRAVELS