After one of my first days in Queenstown, after work, my friend/coworker, Maz and I headed up to Moke Lake to take a walk. We drove alongside Lake Wakatipu and crept higher in elevation. It was so stunning. The views of the lake and the mountains behind it in every direction are stunning. Once we …

Great Coffee, Surf and Hikes: How to Spend a Weekend in New Plymouth
Published Nov 2019 A weekend in New Plymouth is the perfect weekend getaway if you’re in Auckland. When traveling, if you’re someone that’s more interested in doing your own thing, rather than heading with the throngs of other tourists to the most bustling destinations, New Plymouth is the place for you. Do you love good …
My First Impression of Queenstown: Canyons, Lakes, Mountains
What Makes Queenstown, Queenstown? Before my first impression, I knew Queenstown would be special, but I didn’t understand why. When I actually got here, I confirmed this notion pretty quickly (i.e. right when I saw Lake Wakatipu). My experience, like anyone’s, is completely unique from those who have been here before me, so what combination …

Acclimating to Living in the Adventure Capital of the World
In Acclimating to Living in the Adventure Capital of the World, I describe my experience moving to Queenstown, New Zealand, written in October 2019. Thursday, 3:00 pm We arrived in Queenstown absolutely exhausted and nursing “travel hangovers,” as a girl from our hostel called them. Our heads were booming and we felt so demoralized after …

When Plans Go Awry: Also Known As, My Attempted Homestay Experience in New Zealand
Published 2019 In when plans go awry part one, I examine and discuss the major surprise that hit my study abroad group when our homestay organization canceled our stays in Hoi An Vietnam, leaving us with no accommodation and no plan! What drama! Plans go awry for kids who are spending three months of their …