After an incredible journey through New Zealand, exploring vibrant Auckland, historic Dunedin, and the breathtaking beauty of Stewart Island / Rakiura, it’s time to head home. The trip has been filled with stunning landscapes, rich culture, and unforgettable experiences that will be cherished long after the suitcases are unpacked. Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate…
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Exploring Stewart Island / Rakiura: Getting Here, Staying, Eating, Playing & Discovering the Best of the Island
Stewart Island—Rakiura in te reo Māori—is one of New Zealand’s southernmost islands and is often regarded as the nation’s third main island, following the North and South Islands. It’s renowned for its natural beauty, wildlife, and remote charm. Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which help sustain this blog, support my travels, and offer…
Dundee’s on the Waterfront, Cairns.
Dundee’s on the Waterfront in Cairns offers a stunning setting with views over Trinity Inlet. The menu blends seafood with modern Australian cuisine, and the atmosphere is relaxed yet polished. It’s a great spot for a sunset meal or a laid-back drink with tropical vibes. Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which help sustain…
Stewart Island Flights – Flying between Invercargill and Stewart Island / Rakiura, New Zealand.
While travelling in New Zealand and after some time in Auckland, I flew south to visit my dear friend Colleen in Dunedin. Keen to do something a little different, Colleen suggested Stewart Island—Rakiura in te reo Māori—and I was instantly on board! (Yes, that pun was intended). Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which…
Boogies Burgers – Since 1969, Calgary, Canada.
Boogie’s Burgers, established in 1969, is a beloved Calgary institution known for its retro vibe, inventive burgers, and indulgent comfort food. There is also something fun for the kids and big kids alike, those from the 80s might remember Ms. PAC-MAN?Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which help sustain this blog, support my travels,…
Eating Fugu: The Dangerous and Daring Delicacy of Japan
Do you ever have that feeling where you suddenly think, should I really be doing this? Kind of like the first time you went skydiving, bungee jumping or zip lining (I’ve only done one of these things and probably won’t do the others…Can you guess which one I have done?). I am, however, a little…
VIP Lounge #39 – Shanghai Pudong Airport.
I had a seven hour layover at Shanghai’s Pudong Airport, and like many seasoned travellers, I opted to spend it in an airport lounge, specifically, the VIP Lounge 39. Operated by Plaza Premium, it also serves as the designated lounge for Air France, Japan Airlines, and Korean Air. Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links…
LATAM Airlines Premium Business – LA800 – Sydney to Auckland.
I was heading across the ditch—as we like to say in Australia and New Zealand when hopping between the two countries. The flight from Sydney to Auckland is a short one, blocked at just over three hours, but when I spotted a business class fare for only $200 more than economy, I was instantly sold!…
Dining at Plattesteen: A Belgian Bistro Experience
While exploring northern Belgium on our road trip, we visit the capital Brussels and my friend Brett takes me to this wonderful bistro Plattesteen. It serves an array of French cuisine and believe me the dishes we try are delicious! Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which help sustain this blog, support my travels,…
Cheese! Glorious Cheese! Gouda, The Netherlands, the City and the Cheese.
Why am I feeling so happy? Because it’s going to be a Gouda day…I’m on a day trip from The Hague to the city of Gouda in The Netherlands. Gouda is a charming city known for its historic cheese market, beautiful canals, and medieval architecture. Famous for its Gouda cheese, the city also features attractions…
Sydney to Amsterdam on Xiamen Airlines – Cheap price, but was it worth It?
I decided I wanted to visit my dear friend Brett in The Netherlands and checked online for flight options. Expecting high airfares, I was pleasantly surprised to find a return ticket on Xiamen Airlines for under AU$1100! Although the short stay of 6 days limited my options, further research revealed I could extend my trip…
Casa Di Mio Pizzeria, Halle, Belgium.
Experiencing the sinking realisation as we prepared to settle our dinner tab in Halle, Belgium, the waiter’s words hit us: “We only take cash.” Brett and I exchanged a glance, both armed only with cards, a moment of panic ensued… Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which help sustain this blog, support my travels,…
The McKroket, Vegetarian Nuggets and Fries at McDonalds in The Netherlands!
Welcome back for another Macca’s post from around the world! This time I am in The Netherlands! The usual rules apply: I’ll try a burger that is not available in Australia and I’ll have fries for comparison; if there is something else quite different on the menu, like gazpacho in Spain, or the Kaprao Crispy Chicken…
Suhumi Georgian Restaurant, Den Haag, Netherlands.
Suhumi Georgian Restaurant, located in Den Haag (The Hague), Netherlands, offers authentic Georgian cuisine. With its diverse menu featuring traditional dishes like khachapuri and khinkali, it provides a taste of Georgia in the heart of the Netherlands. Full disclosure, this post contains affiliate links which help sustain this blog, support my travels, and offer valuable…
Skylounge – Vienna International Airport
The Skylounge Vienna Airport is a luxurious lounge located in Vienna International Airport. It provides travellers with a cozy and exclusive space to relax and rejuvenate before their flights. Some airlines like Emirates, Qatar, and Korean Air offer access to their First and Business class passengers. Additionally, certain European credit cards or Amex cards may…
Oh Vienna! Schönbrunn Palace and Lunch at Figlmüller – The Home of Schnitzel since 1905!
Vienna’s grandeur is indeed unforgettable, evoking the majesty of its imperial past. From its wide boulevards to its magnificent buildings, the city resonates with the legacy of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It’s a place where history and beauty converge, leaving an indelible impression on all who visit. The whole time I am here, I have the…
Dining at the Harmony Specialty Restaurant on the Majestic Princess.
While on the beautiful Majestic Princess, I, with my group of friends, decided to dine at one of the specialty restaurant called Harmony. We actually also dined at the Crown Grill, but I have reviewed that before, you can read that here. With an additional cover charge of AU$63 to dine at Harmony, I believe…
Früh Am Dom, Cologne, Germany.
Früh am Dom is a traditional brewery and beer hall located near the Cologne Cathedral (Dom) in Cologne, Germany. It is known for its Kölsch beer, a light and crisp ale brewed in Cologne, which is served in small glasses called Stangen. The brewery and beer hall offer a lively atmosphere where locals and tourists…
Let’s be Frank about the wonderful food at Frank, Hobart, Tasmania.
Located opposite Franklin Wharf in Hobart, Tasmania’s capital, Frank provides a unique dining experience with its South American inspired cuisine made from premium Australian ingredients. It’s open ambiance and top notch service enhance the culinary journey we embarked on. I’m here with a group of friends from Sydney, enjoying a five day cruise with Hobart…
Kaprao Crispy Chicken and Rice & the Samurai Burger at McDonalds, Thailand!
It’s time for another McDonalds post, this one is from Thailand! The usual rules apply: I’ll try a burger that is not available in Australia and I’ll have fries for comparison; if there is something else quite different on the menu, like gazpacho in Spain, I’ll grab that too. Today I am trying the Samurai…
Dining on the Costa Fascinosa – The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.
The dining on Costa Fascinosa unveils a culinary journey of the good, the bad, and the ugly. Some dishes dazzle the palate with exquisite flavours, showcasing Mediterranean delights. Some dishes are not up to par and shouldn’t have been served, while others should be ashamed of themselves for their presentation. Full disclosure, this post contains…
Matty Somewhere 