Barbara's travels continue 2018

After decades of neglecting this phenomenal part of NZ, I was back. Why had I left it so long to visit an area of NZ which has so many superlatives describing its total area, depth and volume of lakes, waterfalls, rainfall, plus much more? As, thanks to dire weather forecasts, I was expecting rain for most of my stay, I was pleasantly surprised to arrive to a cloudy, but dry Te Anau. To be honest, the clouds really enhance the mood and atmosphere of Fiordland I chose two tours for my 3-night stay, and I was thrilled with my choice.  First day was Doubtful Sound, a trip I did about thirty years ago in perfect weather, this time really enjoying seeing how it normally looks 200 days a year! It was fantastic. I loved the silhouettes of the mountains overlooking Lake Manapouri, cloaked in cloud, the different shades of grey  stunning. Lush vegetation filled every available space along the shoreline and clung to the bare rock and sheer slopes of the cliffs.   After a short bus trip over the

Mike is starting to enjoy the cooler days, and seems to spend more time indoors! " Autumn has been fantastic, with warm, wind-free days, perfect for tennis and walking by the beach. The Gardens are a joy to walk through, with ever-changing colours which dazzle the passers-by! It has been a busy month, but so much fun. Birthday celebrations started early and culminated in a great party with family and close friends. We ate, drank and danced the night away. I hope I will never forget it. It was  fabulous to be together with Mark and David for such a special milestone. Then, it was off to Wanaka with David.  Wow, the colours were just incredible, possibly the best I have ever seen. Opening the curtains at Edgewater, I was met with this breathtaking sight. Golden poplars lit up the clear blue skies and cast their reflections into the clear water of the Clutha. What a perfect spot to stop and admire such beautiful surroundings. Lunch stops were simply spectacular. At Dublin Bay we fou

How wonderful to open your eyes to such a surreal view. How I appreciate Bruce and Alison's beautiful home in its idyllic location. After years of not travelling together, Alison and I set off for the much loved Golden Bay. My first visit, and hopefully not the last! First stop Takaka, a small arty town with a main street of quirky shops and a multitude of very good and interestingly-named cafes, like The Dangerous Kitchen! Great humour and a fabulous introduction to this very special part of New Zealand right up in the north of the South Island. Only minutes away, the traveller can enjoy magnificent, long, sandy beaches, endless cycle and walking tracks and lush native forest. The easy 30- minute walk to Wainui Falls is well worth it, particularly on a warm sunny day.      One of Golden Bay's most famous tourist spots is undoubtedly Pupu Springs, where you can see the springs bubbling up through crystal clear, sometimes turquoise waters. Personally, I preferred our  gorgeous w