Sun, Sand & Wildlife
Costa Rica is one of the best countries I have visited, and an all-time favourite of mine! It truly has something for everyone, from vibrant cloud forests and national parks teeming with exotic wildlife, to beautiful coastal beaches and several active volcanoes that serve as the perfect base for adventure activities. Number one on my…
The ‘Lost Chimpanzees’ of Uganda
Uganda, described by Winston Churchill as “the pearl of Africa” for its beautiful scenery, moderate climate, and stunning wildlife, had long been at the top of my bucket list of countries to visit. As the plane descended into Entebbe across the waters of Lake Victoria, I could feel my sense of anticipation growing – as…
Trekking Machu Picchu
Ancient ruins perched on impossibly steep mountainsides, shrouded in dense forest and cloud. Machu Picchu is an enigma that captures our imaginations perhaps more than any other historical site in the world. At the heart of the Incan empire, this ‘Lost City’ was mysteriously abandoned for centuries until the discovery of its remarkably preserved ruins…
Zimbabwe Reborn
Many will be aware of the tumultuous political history of Zimbabwe, from colonial times to Independence in 1980, followed by President Mugabe’s 40-year reign. Despite these challenges, the country now offers an incredibly rich wildlife experience. I must admit though, from my first visit to Zimbabwe in the 1990’s to my most recent visit, Harare’s…
Out of the Blue
Sun. Sand. Turquoise waters. Barefoot luxury. This is the tropical paradise of Soneva Fushi and Soneva Jani, two luxury 5-star resorts in the Maldives. I was fortunate enough to stay at both on my honeymoon in 2017, and wow… what an experience. First up, Soneva Fushi. After a short layover in Singapore, we were greeted at…
The Wonders of Ecuador
I fell in love with South America’s kaleidoscope of cultures, colours and sights many years ago, living and travelling extensively across the continent’s diverse countries. Naturally, Ecuador had always been on my list. Amazonian jungle, Andean highlands, and the wildlife mecca of the Galapagos Islands were calling from across the Pacific and I finally answered!…
Chasing Aurora
Knowing how unpredictable Mother Nature can be, I tried hard not to get too excited about the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis in Finnish Lapland. ‘Focus on the destination’ I kept telling myself, but my inner nerd kept screaming ‘but how cool would it be to see charged particles from the sun knocking into…
On Safari in Uganda
‘Gorillas in the Mist’ anyone? Heading out on safari in Uganda will treat you to your own unforgettable primate adventure! As you hike through wild jungles, you’ll gaze in wonder at chimpanzees, various subspecies of monkey, and the world’s last remaining mountain gorillas. Bonus? Uganda also offers great wildlife viewing including elephant, buffalo, hippo, leopard, and…
An Old and Original Africa
Nothing quite prepares you for Ethiopia, amongst the most extraordinary and amazing of the 170+ countries I have visited. Breath-taking beauty, ancient history, rich culture, and the sheer diversity of people are a traveller’s dream, all set against a backdrop of rugged mountains, dramatic deserts and lush countryside. It was here the first humans roamed,…
South Africa’s Top 5
South Africa is famed for its wildlife safaris and thrilling encounters with the “Big 5” – elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino. But there are also other amazing experiences to be had in South Africa, which is now visa-free for Kiwi travellers! Here are our “Top 5” South African experiences. Boutique JohannesburgJozi to it’s locals,…