Queenstown, New Zealand Travel Guide

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Queenstown is the gateway to vineyards, ski fields, glacier, and stunning fjords. It is an idyllic lakeside city that is widely known as New Zealand’s adrenaline Capital. Here are the top must-see attractions in Queenstown, New Zealand.

Lake Wakatipu

The locals call Lake Wakatipu “Hollow of the Giant” and according to legend, fearsome mountain giant resting shape formed it. It is believed this lake’s heart still beats on because of the rhythmic rise and fall of the lake’s waters.

Steamer Wharf

As the descendants of determined European settlers and fierce Polynesian warriors, the spirit of adventure runs through the Kiwis veins. Head to Steamer Wharf to learn more about Wakatipu early settlers and the Lake. While here, climb aboard the TSS Earnslaw also known as “The Lady of the Lake”. This steamship has been transporting passengers and livestock to and from the High Country for over 100 years.

Marine Parade

Head to Marine Parade when the sun gets low to enjoy the spectacle of Mother Nature. Queenstown is filled with craft breweries, cafes, bars and restaurants where travelers and locals exchange tales. With the rhythm of the seasons Queenstown contracts and expands.

The Ski Fields

Residents relax and transform this city into a top-notch ski destination after the hectic summer. There are three main ski fields in Queenstown each with its own highlights and charms. One of them is the Remarkable Ski Field which is about 45 minutes’ drive from the city. It features ruins for beginners and seasoned freestylers. Another ski field is the Cardrona Alpine Resort. The half pipes and Terrain Parks here meet Olympic standards and are one of the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere. The Coronet Peak Ski Area is the last one, and it is just 20 minutes’ drive from Queenstown. It is a spectacular resort that offers a thrilling roller coaster terrain as well as a dedicated learner area. After some hours on the slopes, you can enjoy a meal with a view.

Arrow Basin

Once the snow melts, Queenstown accommodates a new set of visitors who flock to the Arrow Basin to explore the High Country’s charming historic towns and taste its flavors. In the 19th century, Chinese prospectors established the Arrowtown community. The Kiwis struck gold a century later at Kawerau Bridge. This is the first spot of bungee jumping in the world. You can also hop on a jet boat in the Shotover River for a thrill ride through the river’s narrow canyons.

Gibbston Valley

The Kiwis have taken inspiration from the dramatic surrounding to create one of the most spectacular adventure playgrounds in the world. At the same time, the locals know the best time to slow down to unwind and enjoy the pleasures of life. There are over 75 wineries in Queenstown and the nearby Gibbston Valley. Pinot Noirs acclaimed for their vitality, freshness, and purity are produced here.

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Cairns, Australia Travel Guide

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Cairns is situated in a spectacular location with the Atherton Tablelands to the west, the Great Barrier Reef to the east, and the Daintree rainforest to the north. This small port city is the gateway to the tropical North Queensland. Cairns offer its visitors some unique ecosystems. From sparkling blue Coral Sea to lush green jungle, the rainforest meets the reef here. With classic Australian pubs, air-conditioned shopping malls, and picturesque harbor, Cairns is well set up for tourists and a friend of mine who is an Edmonton Chiropractor, recently traveled to Cairns and spoke very highly of his trip. Here are some of the must see attractions in Cairns, Australia.

Parklands
When you set out to explore this tropical region, its parklands will give you a taste of what is to come. Follow the promenade on foot or ride a bike from the mangrove forest to the marina. Swim in the man-made Lagoon to cool off or allow your kids splash around in the water playground.

Trinity Beach
This beach is a little further north of the city. Enjoy the gentle waves or board the sky rail for an impressive rainforest experience. Catch a breeze at one of the scenic lookout points or glide over the waterfalls and tree canopy of Barron Gorge. You can get some souvenirs at the daily craft markets before taking the scenic sky rail back to Cairns. With its many affordable food courts, bargain night markets, and free outdoor activities, Cairns is the perfect place for those on a budget.

Palm Cove/Port Douglas
Palm Cove and Port Douglas offers visitors a more upscale oceanfront with scenic coastal road. Not only are they laid back but they offer miles of rustic Aussie bars, unique shops, fishing piers, and palm-fringed beaches. For divers and snorkelers, Port Douglas is a dream destination. You can book a cruise to explore the world’s largest Barrier Reef. Find yourself surrounded by tropical fish and enjoy lunch while viewing the coral sea.

Crocodile Farm
This can be found in the rainforest. Here you will see some saltines and small freshwater crocodiles. Expect these creatures to circle your boat in search of food. You can also enjoy a smoked crocodile for lunch here.

Cairns Tropical Zoo
Feeding time is very relaxed here and you can cuddle a wombat or koala. You can also admire the colorful cassowary and visit the kangaroos. In the cultural center of the Tjapukai people, you can experience the tribal aboriginal lifestyle. You will learn some traditional hunter gathering skills from this local indigenous group. Witness the spectacular dancing ceremony and learn ancient survival techniques. The aboriginal traditions are still alive here and you can join in. You can end your day on the oceanfront with a moonlit dinner.

Cairns sensational cultural and natural attractions will make you want to come back here. It is your ticket to the tropics with the Daintree rainforest and the Great Barrier Reef.

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Top 5 Things to Know Before you go to Southeast Asia

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Southeast Asia is a group of geographically diverse states with equally diverse lifestyles. This region is known for its tasty cuisine, perfect beaches, good air connections, and low prices. Here are 5 things you need to know before you go to Southeast Asia.

Unlock your Cellphone
This will allow you to buy SIM cards while you are over there and use your phone like you would back home. What is good about this is that SIM cards in Southeast Asia are extremely cheap and so you don’t have to spend that much money to get a bunch of gigabytes. Also, it will depend on where you buy the SIM. So you might want to do a bit of shopping around before you buy your first SIM card just to make sure you are getting a good deal.

Bring Precautionary Medicine
If you will be gone for a long period, I recommend you go to your doctor and get prescriptions for any medications you feel you might need while you are away. If you know your body is prone to any viruses or infections, it is better to bring that medication with you. This is because it is usually is a big pain if you have to do it over there and you will spend an entire day in most likely a hospital because they don’t just have random doctors’ offices on this island and sometimes it can be a bit sketchy. So if you can avoid that it’s just going to make your life so much easier.

Leave Room in Your Suitcase for Clothes
When you are in Southeast Asia, you will be tempted to shop because the clothes over there are extremely cheap and affordable especially in certain towns or countries. You might not think you have the need to shop until you get there and you see amazing clothes. Bangkok, for example, has some really great malls with really cheap stuff. So if you don’t leave a bit of room, you might regret it especially if you weigh your bag exactly to the amount you need.

Bring a Small Bag for Day Trips
I know this might sound like common sense, but I haven’t done this on a few of my trips. When you go to a waterfall or you go hike up a mountain or even going to the beach for a day, it is really nice just to have a small backpack. So if you are going out for dinner and you don’t want to haul your huge backpack around they can come in handy.

Transportation
Transportation in every city will be a bit different. So what is really great is to look up the certain countries before you go. For example, some countries have Uber and Lyft while some countries like the Philippines have Grab which is really affordable and an easy way to get around. You can actually get one right from the airport. Just as Uber you just download an app and you tell it where you are and it will take you on its way.

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Brisbane, Australia Travel Guide

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Brisbane is located between the Gold Coast and the Sunshine Coast. The heart of this city is its River which stretches from Mount Stanley to the Coral Sea. Brisbane is Australia’s sunshine state and enjoys a subtropical climate with warm sunny winters and hot humid summers. So anytime of the year is a great time for adventurous outdoor activities. According to some of my own research, here are the top must see attractions in Brisbane, Australia.

Mount Coot-tha 
Start your tour of this beautiful city on the biggest hill in Brisbane. The name of this hill means honey, which was found in abundance here many years ago. While you are here, don’t forget to explore the Brisbane Botanical Garden and the planetarium.

Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary
See iconic Australian wildlife and feed lorikeets at the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. Meet wombats, koalas, kangaroos, and don’t miss the animal shows which show the real Australian tradition.

Queen Street Mall
Here you will find all the big retail brands in the country. Learn about the mining boom as well as other events that shaped this beautiful city in the nearby Brisbane Museum. Some exhibits will show you how the World Expo in 1988 led to the transformation of the rivers.

Southern Bank
This is Brisbane’s favorite backyard, and it even has its own beach. There are also many free facilities and activities which attract over 10 million people every year. Visit one of the several popular theaters and museums, join the locals for a beer, browse the weekend markets, or cool off in a lagoon. The cultural forecourt is a collection of Queensland’s major theaters and museums. You can also see some prehistoric creatures, admire European, and indigenous modern art, and don’t forget to see a show at the Performing Arts Center.

New Farm Park
From South Bank, take a public ferry downstream to the new farm park. This restored power house has turned to a real institution among music and art lovers. Pop off at Kangaroo Point on your way back to climb the Story Bridge. This is one of the best spots to watch the sunset over Brisbane. Ensure you book your tour for mid afternoon because nightfall comes early here.

Moreton Island
For a fun day at the beach, jump on a ferry to Moreton Island. You can also join a tour along the shore before surfing down the sandy beach. Snorkel around the tangle Umarex on a hot day or book a helicopter to fly over the Coral Sea and bay if you would rather stay high and dry.

There is a lot to do and see in Brisbane and you can indulge as much as you like but you are never far from nature while you are here.

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How To Deal With Unsupportive Friends and Family

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So, you have decided that becoming a world-traveler is something that you want to do. You are well-aware of the fact that it is not going to be easy, but you have been watching a lot of travel-related shows, reading a lot of travel-related books, and listening to a lot of travel-related podcasts. There is absolutely no doubt that you know what you want to do with your life, and you are aware of the fact that there is a little bit of risk involved. You know know that being a world-traveler is not easy, and you are not afraid of the fact that you might fail, but for some reason, you still want to do it. And since you have put a whole lot of thought into this whole process, you have finally made a decision to quit your job and start following your travel dreams.

 

However, you are now facing one major problem – almost every single person that you know thinks that you have completely lost your mind. They think that you are trying to force them to believe in something that you read in one of your travel-related books. Also, they think that it is their duty to try to talk you out of this mess, and they really hope that you will find the power to put all of this behind you and get back to your job sooner rather than later. But you know that becoming a world-traveler is something that you truly want to do, and you are trying to do everything that is in your power to do it. That being said, here are three steps for dealing with people who don’t support you on your journey to becoming a world-traveler!

 

Try To Understand Your Unsupportive Friends

Your unsupportive friends probably don’t understand what humans are capable of, and you need to understand that. The main reason why they don’t support you is because they haven’t experienced the mindset changes that you have. But in order to succeed, you have to be strong enough to ignore their advice.

 

Explain Why You Want To Become a Traveler

Do your unsupportive friends even know the main reason why you want to travel the world? If they don’t, you should tell them as soon as possible. By doing this, you are going to make the whole situation much easier for everyone.

 

Take Small Steps

One of the first things that you need to do is prove to your family and friends that you are capable of traveling alone. This way, you are going to show them that you can navigate an unfamiliar place with ease. Once you notice that your family is comfortable with you traveling domestically, head to a nearby country and spend a week or two there.

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How To Actually Get Work Done While Traveling

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Are you one of those people who are all in for unplugging from the outside world while you are on a nice vacation with your family and friends? If you have put in the hard work for your company, and your boss assures you that you are completely covered, feel free to spend your upcoming vacation doing things that actually make you happy. For example, you can spend your upcoming vacation reading your favorite book. Feel free to do whatever it is that makes you happy. It is a vacation after all, isn’t it?

However, if you are a commuter (or even a super-commuter), your work will not wait – even if you are halfway across the world. Keep in mind that if you are not well-organized, you might end up squandering your vacation completely. For example, if you don’t use your travel day well, you will arrive at your destination tired and jet-lagged, and all you’ll want to do is sleep. With this in mind, here are some tips that should help you increase your productivity on a travel day!

Book Wisely

Have you ever heard of TV commercials that are targeted at people who spend the majority of their time doing research on at least five different travel websites just to see if they can save $20 on their hotel room? If you are one of those people, then you have come to the right place! You see, it is very important for you to be very smart when it comes to booking things, especially if you are on a tight budget. That being said, what you need to do is talk to your boss about the elements of your business trip where paying a bit more money will make it easier for you to complete your task.

Pack the Right Tools

If you really want to get your work done while traveling, it is very important for you to pack all the right tools. While being able to read business emails on your phone is always a good thing, you should always bring your laptop with you as well. With that said, you should always bring your laptop with you when traveling the world – either that or try to invest in some sort of a keyboard that you can easily plug into your mobile device.

Work in Advance

If you know that you will have a travel day that won’t be good for the Internet connection, you should try to finish your job before that day actually arrives. You see, deadlines don’t evaporate just because you don’t have a stable Internet connection. That being said, it is very important to plan ahead and finish an extra project or two before you actually hit the road. It will make things so much easier for everyone involved.

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