prairie girl musings

Category: Travel

Rest & Relaxation in Rarotonga

I stayed up until 2am the morning we were due to leave for the Cook Islands, which seems to be a trend whenever I take more than a day off work. Our weeklong excursion to Rarotonga couldn’t have come at a worse time: work was manic, dishes were piling up, and we had just decided to change not only the date but the country of our wedding. Needless to say, relaxing wasn’t at the top of my to-do list.

Upon arrival, it was obvious that relaxation was on the agenda as I soon eased in island time…

Where to stay
Given that we were travelling as a group of six, we decided against staying at a resort. Instead we opted to stay at a beautiful house called Anchors Aweigh across from the beach, which you can find here. The photos on the listing don’t do it justice, and we were 100% impressed. We actually stayed slightly away from Muri, which is the tourist hub of Rarotonga and didn’t regret it! We rented motorcycles and scooters, which was our main way of getting around the island every day.

Activities
The one thing everyone told me about Rarotonga was how great the snorkelling is… and they’re right. The calm, clear lagoon makes for optimal snorkelling conditions and I couldn’t get over the warm water temperature. After visiting Great Barrier Reef last August, I’ve come to appreciate the fragility of coral and sea life in general. Much of the coral I’ve come across in the past few years is bleached and dead, which breaks my heart and makes me realise our environmental impact. Don’t get me wrong, we still saw some beautiful sea life during our excursions including some sea turtles, giant clams and rainbow fish of all sizes. When swimming, I urge you to pay close attention to where you’re stepping because the island is covered in coral and it’s sharp!

Speaking of sea turtles, we heard the place to see them was in one of the southern inlets to the reef not too far from where we were staying. However these passages are treacherous and can be extremely dangerous places to swim in the wrong conditions. We took extra care to ensure the tides were right and had a friend spotting in a kayak to make sure no one got into trouble.

Nick is a keen sailor and was a member of the community yacht club in Toronto, so he took us out sailing for a couple hours. He hired the boat from Ken Kingsbusy at Muri Beach Club Hotel, who also offers instruction and lessons if you’re wanting to try sailing for the first time! The boats fit five adults comfortably and I highly recommend it as a morning excursion.

Eating and drinking
I find it so fascinating that you can pack your own food in a ice box when travelling to the Cook Islands. This helped save us a lot of money because groceries are quite expensive in Rarotonga. Buying fresh fruit was surprisingly difficult given we were on a tropical island, which was one thing I struggled with quite a bit. Regardless, we found a few yummy restaurants and cafés (most are situated around Muri Beach) that I’d recommend checking out if you’re venturing to Raro:

Vaima: This was by far our favourite meal of the trip. The restaurant overlooks the beach, making it the perfect spot for a sunset meal. Given that we were a group of six, we tried almost everything on the menu. The beef wellington, seafood curry and chicken seemed to be the crowd favourites.

The Mooring Fish Café: Everyone who visits Rarotonga tells you to grab a F.O.B. (fresh off the boat) fish sandwich. Listen to them, these are some of the freshest and tastiest fish sandwiches you’ll ever taste!

LBV (Le Bon Vivant): I loved the name of this café, which means someone who enjoys luxuries like good food and drink and their ice coffees were absolutely divine. I was eyeing up their pastry selection as well…

Another great spot for iced coffee is Le Rendez-Vous, which is located near the airport. Owned by the loveliest French family, they serve traditional crêpes in a gorgeous café. If you’re after a flat white (I was the only one who was craving hot coffee in 30-degree heat), I suggest visiting Salt Café and Gallery. I was swooning over the mint exterior…

Vili’s Burger Joint: If you’re a burger fiend like me, be sure to hit up Vili’s for the most scrumptious burgers on the island. I don’t know how they do it, but the patties are INCREDIBLE!

Charlie’s Beach Bar: Well-priced drinks on the beach and tasty fries set Charlie’s apart from other local Raro bars. I loved going for a snorkel, grabbing a piña colada and then heading back out for another snorkel. What a dream!

Relaxing
I had my heart set on getting a massage while we were on holiday. After all, I was pretty run down from the past few weeks. After a bit of research, my friend, Bridget and I decided to get massages at Muri Beach Club Hotel. Little did we know, they’d put us in the same room (maybe they thought we were a couple?) The massage turned out to be very relaxing and just what we needed before heading back to Christchurch.

This was my most relaxing holiday yet. We did a few walks, ventured to the waterfall and visited the abandoned Sheraton resort, which was super eery. But other than that, our days were extremely low-key. I’d recommend this destination for anyone who needs to recharge their batteries. With an almost non-existent wifi connection, it’s the perfect little island to disconnect and spend quality time with your loved ones.

Have you ever been to the Pacific Islands before? Tell me about what you got up to!

April 1, 2018
In-Flight Entertainment

The next few months involve a lot of travel and my head is spinning just thinking about it. As much as I love travelling, flying can take its toll when I’m not adequately prepared. And while I wouldn’t say I’m a bad flyer, I do find it more and more exhausting as I get older. In my experience, the best way to enjoy flying is to plan ahead and pack the night before. I like to lay everything out on my bed to help me visualise what my days will look like. Along with planning my outfits and setting aside toiletries, I take great care in packing my hand luggage. When flying domestically, whether I’m away for a day or a week, I always pack a water bottle to stay hydrated, extra moisturiser (both hand and face cream) and a blanket/scarf. Oh, and comfy socks are essential.

Flight food is non-existent on domestic flights, which is difficult when you’re a chronic snacker like me. I’m flying to a few different New Zealand locations over the next few months and I’ve started thinking about what treats to bring. I typically like to have some fresh fruit and cut up veggies as well as a bit of protein. My new favourite are Nice & Natural Protein Nut Bars, which are full of super seeds (think sunflower, pumpkin and chia). They’ve just launched two new flavours: Arabica Coffee & Dark Chocolate or Coconut, Dark Chocolate with Raspberries… The Arabica Coffee & Dark Chocolate is my go-to because I’m addicted to coffee in any shape or form… I often have muesli and yoghurt for breakfast, so the bars are a good grab and go option for early morning flights.

I rarely fly without my laptop (unless it’s a 100% personal trip) and 3-4 hour flights are ideal for getting blog posts and work presentations written. I never leave home without a book because delays and fewer distractions mean I can usually get through a few chapters. I’ve heard a few people say this, but deleting photos off my phone is one of my favourite activities while up in the air.

Do you enjoy flying? And do you pack your own snacks? If you’d like to win your own box of Nice & Natural Protein Nut Bars, check out my Instagram post.

This post was sponsored by Nice & Natural, but all opinions are my own.

February 23, 2018
How to spend a day in Byron Bay

Byron Bay is a popular surf town a short drive (about 1.5 hours southwest) of the Gold Coast. Known for its excellent surf, beautiful walks, and laid back locals, it’s also full of world class cafés and bohemian boutiques. On a recent trip to Queensland to visit my Canadian cousins, I managed to sneak in a day trip to Byron Bay. Armed with a long list of shops and eateries, we certainly made the most of the 24 hours. While you can accomplish a lot in a day in Byron, I would highly recommend a weekend trip so you can properly relax and fully immerse yourself in the beachy vibes offered up by this picture-perfect destination.

Eat/

Start the day at Folk or their little sister café, Woods Bangalow. It’s all in the name – the caravan café serves up an all-organic, vegetarian menu in beautiful outdoor setting. Try the breakfast burrito, muesli or poached eggs and avocado and wash it down with a rainbow assortment of lattes (turmeric, beetroot, spiced pepper, the list goes on…) or opt for something stronger (their espresso is also excellent). You’ll feel like this bustling spot is the place to be, surrounded by fashionable bohemians and hipsters who look like they’ve just left The Falls festival.

If you’re after margaritas and quality Mexican fare, look no further than Miss Margarita We were slightly unimpressed by the service here, but the food was yummy. Try the mango margaritas and fruity Pimm’s punch. Their fish tacos (snapper and squid) are fresh and filling, but the true standout is the mushroom and spinach quesadilla.

Other highly recommended eateries and cafes:

Top Shop: great coffee and scrumptious breakfast. If you’re here for a few days, add this one to your hit list.
Treehouse on Belongil: tapas and shared plates with an Italian theme, this is another Byron hot spot
Balcony Bar & Oyster Co: the place for a sunny afternoon tipple and people watching in Byron, Balcony Bar overlooks one of the busiest parts of the town.
Combi: excellent coffee in the cutest café, I could have easily spent all afternoon here…
Leaf and Grain: another café for another time, the breakfast burgers look out of this world and their white tiles are oh so instagrammable!
Finn Poke: Look for the pink neon sign and white interior, this poke spot has received its fair share of praise.

Shop/
Spell & The Gyspy Collective: If you need the wardrobe to match your new Byron way of life, the 10-minute walk (from the Main Street) is a must. The light-filled shop caters to the gypset crowd, stocking embroidered dresses, beautiful bikinis and lovely homewares and curiosities. There’s even an outdoor area that plays host to weekly (in the summer) and fortnightly (year-round) workshops and events. Sustainability and conscious consumption is a focus here, and the shop girls are on hand to educate and answer any questions you might have.

Miss Brown Vintage Byron Bay: Speaking of sustainable fashion – Miss Brown’s is Byron’s go-to vintage store, carrying a large assortment of denim shirts, shorts and skirts as well as beautiful dresses and leather goods. I ran out of time whilst rummaging through the racks upon racks of impeccable second-hand threads, but immediately found a handful of gems.

Tigani Lux: Everything you’ll need for a week on the beach, Tigani Lux is full of quality staples. Think gorgeous basket bags, linens staples and beautiful jewellery that you’ll want to wear every day.

Ahoy Trader: Find homewares, exclusive Australian brands and plenty of beach necessities at this cute shop off the main drag. I wanted to transport everything home with me, but unfortunately didn’t have checked luggage.

Girl Overboard: Of course, you’ll want to check out swimwear shops while you’re in Byron Bay – … has all the latest Seafolly and Maje as well as stunning cover-ups and dresses that will take you from lunch to the beach and back

These are only a small selection of many fantastic shops in Byron, wander off the main drag, to the side streets and you’ll find plenty of unique boutiques.

STAY/

We were staying in the Gold Coast, but I have my eye on the following hotels and accommodations for next time…

28 Degrees: luxury guesthouses in the heart of Byron Bay – I dream of staying here with Nick.

Atlantic Byron: four original Byron Bay cottages that have been lovingly restored. Take a look at their website and swoon…

Do/
Whatever you do, make sure you make the trek to the famous Byron lighthouse. Even better if you visit during sunrise or sunset, when the sky takes on a pink and purple hue.

If you’ve ever wanted to take up surfing but haven’t yet had the chance… Byron’s a great spot to catch a wave. We went with Let’s Go Surfing because they offered 1.5 hour courses (rather than the typical 4 hours) and the instruction was friendly and hands on. I would definitely recommend going in a small group (no more than six) especially if you’re new to surfing. Although the waves were quite huge (and can intimidate beginners)…the instructors here will make sure you’re safe.

I had really built Byron up in my mind, envisioning a small, unrushed destination filled with well-dressed hippies, gorgeous surfers and organic cafés. What I wasn’t expecting was to fall for the town’s friendliness and quiet charm. I anticipated a place that was a little too cool, but experienced quite the contrary. Every local I interacted with was friendly and welcoming, happy to have visitors invade their little slice of heaven.

January 29, 2018
2018 Blog & Business Goals

I say this EVERY year, but where has the time gone?! I can’t believe we’re already a week into 2018.

As much as I love the clean slate of a new year, I’m all about setting goals year-round. While my goals usually include a personal component, I wanted to focus a bit more on business goals this year. Since leaving my full-time job and dedicating more time to my side hustles, I’ve been thinking a lot more about where I want to be 2018, so here it goes…

Work with a photographer
I’m lucky to have a few photographer friends, who I’ve been able to work with (quite sporadically) over the past year. Nick’s also a pretty good Instagram boyfriend, (or should I say, fiancé?) but I think it’s important to separate our personal and professional lives. This year I’d like to work with a photographer more regularly to take my content to the next-level.

Travel content
One of the reasons I started blogging was to share city guides and travel tips with you all. Living in New Zealand has been an incredible experience in itself (one I’m super grateful for…) but it’s isolated from the rest of the world and limits the number of places I can reasonably travel to. In 2017, I travelled to Japan, three Australian states, and all over NZ, but my city guides were few and far between… In 2018, there’s no excuse, I’ll be sharing all the best spots right here.

Collaborate, collaborate, collaborate
Christchurch is full of incredibly talented individuals. When Mooch Style and I hosted our bloggers meet-up, we were blown away by the number of people who attended and shared their blogging stories with us. I’d like to host another Bloggers Collective this year because well, last year was so much fun! Another goal is to collaborate with other creatives – photographers, writers and stylists because it’s such a great way to learn and stay inspired. I’ve already got a few partnerships in the works, so stay tuned.

Sponsored content
As a creative, it’s hard to resist opportunities that come knocking, especially those with desirable budgets. After all, we need to get paid. As hard as it can be to turn down opportunities that aren’t a good fit, that’s what I intend to do this year. I want to be as transparent and honest with you guys as possible because that’s what this is all built upon.

Always sign a contract
I’ve been burned a few times in the past by clients who’ve refused to sign contracts or commit to a payment schedule. I’ve talked to other friends in the blogging world and they’ve all experienced similar issues. As unregulated as our work can be, I’ll always handle myself professionally and only work with those who do, too.

Improve my blog’s SEO
This one is definitely a long-term game, but I need to focus on search engine optimisation. Despite working as a digital marketer for more than two years, my blog’s SEO ranking is abysmal, so I’ve got to dedicate some serious time to improving it or look to hire someone to help!

Blog rebrand & refresh
As much as I love my blog, this layout needs work and is overdue for a refresh. The navigation is non-existent and there’s no search function… I created this blog 5.5 years ago, and while I still love it, there’s lots I’ve outgrown. I am considering working with a designer and developer to create something a bit sleeker and user-friendly. Who have you worked with in the past?

2017 was a great year and I figured a lot out, here’s hoping 2018 is just as good!

Have you thought about your goals for the year ahead?

January 6, 2018
Morocco Moments
Before booking my trip to Morocco, I heard lots of comments and concerns from my parents, friends and boyfriend. So, I researched and read over 20 blog posts and watched several vlogs on different people’s experiences to learn more about the people and culture. Overall, it was 50/50 on whether people enjoyed their time and if they recommended the trip. It took me almost a month before I finally made a decision, took the plunge, booked my flights and a tour. I knew that if I was with a group of people and a local guide, my family would feel more comfortable with my vacation choice.

When preparing for my travels, I knew I wanted to be covered up and dress appropriately. I felt this was a simple way to avoid negative attention and respect local culture and etiquette. I read a lot about the importance of covering up, but also saw several photos of people wearing revealing outfits according to Morocco standards. When I was in the more touristy areas, I encountered plenty of people who wore what they would in their home countries. Personally, I feel like this was a big reason why I had a positive experience.

I enjoyed Morocco was more than I could have ever imagined. The interior design was out of this world. Art is such a big part of the culture. Everywhere I looked, I wanted to take a photo. In Fez, for example, the traffic lights were a beautiful chrome design. I’ve never been anywhere else where they put that much artistic consideration into traffic lights. If it wasn’t for my phone not having any more space I probably could have taken double the amount of pictures.

Trip Highlights:

In Fez, visit the medina and explore all the shops. It’s less overwhelming than the one in Marrakech. Make sure to stop at Bous Inania Medersa, which is quite hidden and can easily be missed if you don’t know where to look. The entrance fee is 10 DH, which is equivalent to $1 CDN and totally worth it! Fez is also home to the oldest (operating) university in the world, University of Karueein. (It was founded by a woman! Cool, right?)

In Marrakech, stay at the various beautiful resorts or riads. The accommodation is seriously incredible! Also, be sure to spend a night in the main square. Be prepared, while this is quite overwhelming, it’s also completely worth it!

In the Sahara Desert, we rode camels and stayed at this really cool hotel. If you want to go glamping in the desert, make sure to go during their warmer months. We met a group that went in November, and they were FREEZING – shocking, I know since it’s the desert and Morocco!

Ifrane – Morocco’s “Switzerland” – We briefly stopped here, but I would love to spend a few more days here. Ifrane is where the rich people have their vacation homes and it’s fun to admire the mansions and architecture. It’s also completely unique to the rest of the country and is also home to a world-class university (if anyone’s considering studying abroad…)

Overall, I wish I didn’t have such a fear before arriving in Morocco. I think my skepticism was probably apparent to my local guide during the first few days, and it was completely unfounded. Thankfully, I was able to see a lot of the country and appreciate its beauty.

In summary, these are my four main takeaways when travelling to Morocco:
1. Make sure to visit more than Marrakech. I highly recommend Fez and the Sahara Desert.
2. Remember cultural etiquette by dressing modestly; that means long skirts or pants and sweaters or cardigans.
3. Have ample storage on your camera or phone – you’ll want to take photos at every turn!
4. Save room in your luggage for purchases. I only brought a carry on, which now being home, I regret.
This guest post was written by Natalie Ortynsky. For more Morocco photos, follow her on Instagram.
December 4, 2017
A Short Guide To Ponsonby

Nowhere in Auckland has as many excellent eateries, quality cafés and beautiful boutiques as Ponsonby. The affluent suburb is synonymous with style and one would be remiss to visit the City of Sails without spending some time here. When I was studying in Auckland, I dreamt of renting a small villa in Ponsonby amongst the trendy bars and restaurants and often visited between lectures.

On a recent trip up for New Zealand Fashion Week, we cycled from our Britomart base up the (very steep) hill to Ponsonby Road. Here, we spent the day eating, shopping and drinking. Shayden (of Mooch Style) was especially fond of all the homeware shops, whereas Robyn (Anywhere I Roam Photography) and I loved exploring all the fashion boutiques. This quick guide covers my favourite spots for eating, drinking and shopping in this well-heeled suburb.

Eat

I’ve talked (and Instagrammed) about Orphans Kitchen in the past, but it’s an unbeatable spot for coffee, crumpets and other bites. The café is influenced by Oceania and New Zealand’s national identity. The menu changes regularly, but is always absolutely spectacular.

Dizengoff is a well-known café that does fantastic breakfast and coffee. Eighthirty and AllPress are top picks options for excellent coffee. Otherwise, venture to Little Bird Unbakery for something plant-based and healthy.

For lunch, I can’t go past Burger Burger, which has Auckland’s best burgers in a relaxed laneway off the main drag. Their Ponsonby location was their first, but have since opened outposts in Newmarket and Takapuna. Another favourite is Blue Breeze Inn, a spacious eatery and bar that serves an array of Modern Pacific Chinese cuisine. Their baos are, hands down, the best I’ve had in New Zealand and the steamed dumplings are also worth mentioning. Robyn and I couldn’t resist fresh coconuts to ease our hangovers from the previous night.

Shop

You really can’t go wrong with any of the shopping in Ponsonby – all the established designers (Karen Walker, Juliette Hogan, Kate Sylvester, Deadly Ponies, Lonely, Miss Crabb, the list goes on) have set up shop here. You’ll also find one-off boutiques and excellent homewares shops. Mooch Style will be sharing a homeware guide in the coming days, so stay tuned for that!

My personal favourite is The Shelter, which features a curated yet eclectic mix of New Zealand and international designers and an in-house café. If you’re in need of a hair cut or colour, Stephen Marr and D&M Hair Design are your best bets. Both have won an array of hairdressing awards and you’ll leave feeling amazing. I’m super neurotic about my haircuts and rarely trust anyone other than Mary who has been doing my hair (in Winnipeg, Canada) for years! I can book into either of these two salons and feel completely at ease knowing my hair is in good hands.

Thanks for the bikes, Grand Mercure!

Drink

Start your evening at Mea Culpa, one of Ponsonby Road’s most established and respected cocktail bars. According to manager, Ifan, Mea attracts a mixed, often older crowd. It’s the place for awkward first dates and secret meet ups. The menu changes weekly, which allows the bar staff to hone their craft. They’ve won more awards to count yet the small establishment lacks pretension often associated with the area. We start off with two weekly cocktails, Hemingway’s Daiquiri (sugar-free because he was diabetic) and a Pamplemousse which consisted of gin, Aperol, grapefruit liqueur and cordial, lemon and rhubarb bitters. It was delicious! Afterwards, Shayden tries his first-ever negroni and loves it (three sips in…) The bar is known for the boozy cocktail and it’s easy to see why.

Venture up the road to Fhlotson Paradise, which is a nineties-themed bar with a pink neon sign, lush greenery and an extensive cocktail menu. My third drink in, I’ve fallen head over heels for the Vanilla Ice… Tea. It’s perfectly balanced, boozy and sweet. Far more spacious than Mea, it’s a great spot for catching up with mates and the music here ranges from Hanson to T.L.C. On weeknights, they have karaoke. Count me in.

Keen on a boogie? Revelry is a fun option for those looking for a dance floor but don’t want to compromise on impeccably poured drinks.

If you’re after some day drinking, I’m a fan of Bedford Road Soda & Liquor for their outlandish cocktails served in quirky vessels.

This will take you to the end of your day of shopping, eating and drinking in Ponsonby. What are your favourite spots for all the above? Let me know if you’d like more of these types of guides.

September 3, 2017
24 Hours In Brisbane

With only one day in Brisbane on my way back from the Whitsunday Islands, I still was eager to get a good sense of the city. If you’re looking for ideas to explore this sunny Queensland city on a tight timeframe, read on.

After flying into the Brisbane Airport, catching the train is super straightforward. I headed to Central Station, located 200 metres from my hotel. Speaking of hotels, I checked into the New Inchcolm Hotel, the most beautiful boutique accommodation I’ve ever experienced. The small property has 50 rooms, all elegantly designed in relation to the neighbourhood’s rich heritage. My suite featured a bookcase, a spacious workstation and a gorgeous table overlooking the city. Ordering room service is done via an iPad, so I didn’t have to leave the comfort of my bed. The New Inchcolm is home to an intimate restaurant, Thomson Reserve and Socialites Bar. If you’d like to venture further afield, downtown Brisbane is only a short walk away or they have bikes available for hire. Nothing is too hard for the team and they went out on a limb to accommodate my requests (including a late checkout, so I could shower before my evening flight!)

After a restful night’s sleep, I was ready to take on the day. First off, I walked along the bridge to New Farm, a trendy neighbourhood full of cafés and shops. I was excited to try breakfast at newly-opened Miss Jones. The minimal interior features pastel pink furnishings accentuated by lush greenery and an eye-catching neon sign. The menu is quite extensive. I tossed up the eggs benedict on potato waffles, but ultimately decided on the green option – poached eggs, halloumi and sweet potato on a bed of legumes and leaves. It was the best way to begin my day of exploration (and walking!)

There are so many cool shops in the New Farm neighbourhood. Wander along James Street and you’ll discover plenty of Australian and international designers, Calexico, Wolf & Ordnance, Zimmermann, Mecca Cosmetica, Aesop and Dinosaur Designs, to name a few!

After breakfast, I was ready for a coffee and ventured to Greenhaus Coffee. The takeaway coffee shop of dreams, I swear the tiled floor, pink door and pink espressomachine were designed for Instagramming purposes.

After a bit more shopping and walking, I stopped in for a light lunch at Nodo Donuts. Along with baked (not fried) treats, they have some of the best smoothie bowls. I opted for their winter specialty, a dragonfruit variety and it did not disappoint! The corner café issurprisingly spacious with lots of outdoor seating. I lingered here for a while in a sunny spot on the terrace.

After lunch, I was determined to cover a few more kilometres and decided to walk along the river to Eagle Street Pier. Recently revamped by the city council, the boardwalk is a great place for people and boat watching. It offers the best views of the Story Bridge and access to a plethora of other neighbourhoods. Ferries run throughout the day to South Bank or the West End. Dozens of restaurants line the walkway, if you’re looking for a meal with a view. Short on time, I decided to carry on walking to the botanic gardens to explore the native flora and fauna. The expansive gardens are a lovely space for lounging or a leisurely stroll. I found myself getting lost among the greenery and almost forgot I was in the middle of a major metropolis. They also play host to concerts and events throughout the year (the weather is always good in Brisbane!)

Afterwards, I popped into a store I had heard a lot about, Showroom Brisbane. The independent boutique aims to showcase and sell the work of local and Australian designers. It’s a curated event space that’s always changing, so no visit is ever the same!

Nosying around the CBD, I wanted to venture to one more neighbourhood before my flight back home. I decided on Chinatown, which is one of Brisbane’s oldest neighbourhoods. Lined with Chinese restaurants and shops, the vibrant, centrally-located district is a hive of activity. The architecture and traditional Chinese gates are worth seeing. Sweltering from the heat, I decided to pop in for an ice cream Mister Fitz. Desperate for a break from the heat, I was also keen to see the traditional ice cream parlour in person. The massive pink storefront (are we sensing a theme here?) lends itself to a gorgeous, old school ice creamery. Known for their ice cream sandwiches, I opted for a single scoop instead.

Sadly, my time in Brisbane was nearly up and I had to pack my bags and catch the train to the airport. I know I’ll be back to visit the other great neighbourhoods that comprise this sunny city.

Have you ever been to Brisbane? Tell me, what are your favourite spots?

August 20, 2017
36 Hours in New Plymouth

The last time I was in New Plymouth was to see Tegan and Sara open for Jack Johnson in 2010. Evidently Jack Johnson chose Taranaki as the destination for one of his two New Zealand shows because of its reputation for having some of the country’s best surf.

Taranaki is known for much more than surf breaks these days. Last year, it was named the second best region in the world by Lonely Planet. There’s plenty to love about New Plymouth: stunning coastlines, friendly inhabitants and a thriving arts and cultural scene. Despite its small size, it feels decidedly cosmopolitan and avant-garde, due in part to design-led eateries and the experimental Len Lye Centre.

Armed with less than 36 hours in New Plymouth, I checked into boutique hotel King & Queen Hotel Suites, located centrally on the corner of King and Queen Streets. The property overlooks the coast, so you can’t ask for a better location. Moroccan furnishings add a pop of colour to the otherwise minimal and sleek interiors. Balconies overlook the city below, offering views of the crashing waves. Next door is Ozone Coffee Roasters, a spacious local roastery and café serving up NP’s best cuppa. I could’ve easily spent the entire afternoon cozied up here with a book. I settled for a flat white and some beans to take home with me.

For breakfast, pop into Monica’s Eatery, a sleek café named after Monica Brewster (and attached to the Govett-Brewster Art Gallery). The buzzing restaurant is open from morning till night. Bask in the sun whilst enjoying eggs benedict or decadent pancakes. Later on, return for an aperol spritz or negroni.

Other notable eateries line the courtyard of the White Hart building. Ms. White serves up pizzas and craft beer whereas The Public Catering Company is known for its doughnuts and pastries, including bacon and egg tarts. Snug Lounge is a Japanese restaurant and cocktail bar. Dining options in the West End Precinct are seemingly unlimited and I find myself wanting to try everything.

In addition to dining, there are a few notable shopping spots. Et Vous is a women’s boutique that highlights both local and international designers and Plantation is a design and homewares shop that will give you serious interior inspiration. Urban Beauty Spa is the ultimate place to get pampered in New Plymouth. I not only judge a spa based on its tranquil interior, but also the products it uses. At Urban, Dermalogica is used for all facial treatments and St. Tropez for spray tans. They also offer massages, gel manicures, pedicures and hair removal.

After exploring the retail options, I was ready for a sunny stroll along the Coastal Walkway. On weekend mornings, you’ll see families out for bike rides and locals enjoying a morning jog. There are plenty of nearby beaches as well. Fitzroy is a lovely local spot known for its great surf. Along the Surf Highway, be sure to stop by Oakura Beach. The drive itself is glorious, roll your windows and enjoy the 15-minute cruise. The beach is empty when I visit, on an unseasonably warm August afternoon.

Before departing, be sure to venture across Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, where you’ll take in views of Mt. Taranaki (also known as Mt. Egmont). New Plymouth strikes the perfect balance between culture and nature. There’s plenty to enjoy whether you consider yourself an outdoorsy type, a culture seeker or both. While some visitors feel it lacks the excitement and infrastructure of world-class cities, I disagree. New Plymouth is small but mighty and much easier on the wallet than bigger centres. It’s easy to see why this region was named one of the best in the world.

August 6, 2017
Akaroa Adventures

Access to some of the country’s most spectacular regions is one of the reasons Nick and I moved to Christchurch. With Banks Peninsula on our doorstep, the drive to Akaroa is a winding wonderland of sights. Stop at Hilltop Tavern for a coffee or quick bite before carrying on down the road. The views are as breathtaking as they come!

To describe the French and British settlement as quaint wouldn’t do it justice. The seaside village is known for its colonial charm and heritage buildings. Home to some of the region’s best restaurants (Little Bistro is absolutely worth a visit!), Akaroa is the perfect place for a weekend getaway.

For our girls weekend, we had plenty on the agenda. Upon arrival, we drove up to the harbour to begin our first adventure of the day: an excursion with Black Cat Cruises. The weather wasn’t on our side and those prone to seasickness (myself included) were advised to remain on land. After a few frightening experiences, I’ve developed a phobia of small boats on choppy waters. However, I was determined to swim with the majestic Hector dolphins. Endemic to New Zealand, the Hector bread is the smallest in the world and as severely endangered as the Bengal tiger. After several bouts of seasickness (I’ll spare you the details), I was relieved to see the wild dolphins jumping and diving right beside the boat. The skies even cleared as we safely made our way to shore.

After our dolphin excursion, we stopped for lunch at Sweet As on the main street. The french patisserie serves up everything from croque monsieurs to petit choux.

Next up, we headed out of town to French Farm for an alpaca farm tour. Home to alpacas of all sizes and colours, Shamarra Alpacas has panoramic views of the Akaroa Heads all the way to Barry’s Bar. The tour allowed us to get up close and personal with these cuddly creatures in their natural environment.

We checked into the spacious Akaroa Waterfront Motel for the evening. Our room featured a large lounge, a kitchenette and three beds, ideal for the three of us. We settled in for some wine and cheese before heading out for the evening. With gorgeous views of the harbour, we couldn’t stop staring out the massive windows. The location is also super convenient, right in the heart of Akaroa.

The next morning, we wandered around the village before tucking into breakfast at The Brasserie. The expansive garden is marvellous on a sunny day and the coffee is AllPress.

Before heading back to the city, we had the pleasure of visit the magnificent Giant’s House. Reminiscent of Gaudí’s Park Güell in Barcelona, the historic house features original artworks, terraced gardens with sculptures and mosaics. Secluded and quiet, the house on the hill is full of surprises. We found ourselves losing track of time in the magical surrounds. Make time to see The Giant’s House on your next visit to Akaroa.

Akaroa has its fair share of delicious cuisine and fine dining, but nothing compares to the delectable creations by Rachel of Sweet & Savage. Rachel started making fresh and downright delicious doughnuts after she and her family moved from the city to Akaroa. Operating out of a 1959 Airstream caravan during the summer months, Sweet & Savage visits music and food festivals throughout Canterbury. I’m absolutely hooked on the rose, vanilla, pistachio and strawberry variety. You can now find Sweet & Savage at all Christchurch’s best cafés, Uncommon, Park Ranger, Laneway Espresso and Lux Espresso on Fridays and Saturdays!

July 14, 2017
How to holiday in Hanmer Springs

The scenic drive to Hanmer Springs is a mere 90 minutes north of Christchurch. Perfect for a weekend away, the resort town is popular amongst Cantabrians and international visitors.

I had yet to visit Hanmer despite having resided in Christchurch for almost two years. Nick’s birthday weekend was a great excuse to treat ourselves to a mini getaway. I was immediately reminded of family ski trips to the Canadian Rockies, on a much smaller scale (as is customary in New Zealand).

After exploring the main drag of Hanmer and poking our noses into a few boutique shops (Nick needed some new bathers), we had a coffee at MK Restaurant. The sleek, minimalist interior appealed to me on every level and the flat whites were served in bowls.

We checked into Braemar Lodge & Spa, a gorgeous alpine resort with views of the snow-speckled mountains. The lodge is 10-minutes out of Hanmer on a winding gravel road up the hill. The rooms are massive and even have their own soaking tubs and fireplace. Here, you’ll be treated to floor-to-ceiling windows of the Southern Alps, not a bad sight. We cozied up in our robes for the evening with takeaways and a bottle of pinot noir from nearby Waipara Hills winery.

Having spent Saturday night lounging, we decided to venture out of our room for Sunday brunch. Just when I thought the views couldn’t get any better, we were treated to panoramic views at Braemar’s in-house restaurant, Altitude. Of course, the food was also incredible – we opted for the eggs benedict with plenty of cold breakfast options on the side.

If you’re looking for accommodation slightly removed from the busy main street, I’d highligh recommend checking out Braemar. Ideal for a romantic getaway, the secluded lodge is tucked away from the touristy Hanmer Springs.

Needing to walk off our breakfast, we decided to venture to Hanmer Forest. We opted for the Conical Hill walkway, which is a leisurely stroll through the forest. Surrounded by coniferous trees, we took in the fresh alpine air as we made our way up the hill. Rewarded with a beautiful yet misty view, we slowly made our way back, thankful we had rugged up in our beanies, mittens and layers.

Next up, we headed to the acclaimed thermal pools and spa. Hanmer is most commonly known for its hot springs and there’s plenty to explore. From the relaxing rock pools to the waterfalls, aqua therapy and sulphur pools, we could’ve spent an entire day pool hopping. The pools all vary in temperature, but winter is the ideal time for a soak. If you’re looking to amplify your relaxation levels, stop by Artisan Spa in Hanmer Village for a facial or massage.

On our drive back to Christchurch, we stopped at the historic Hurunui Hotel. The 1861 hotel and pub was badly damaged during the earthquakes, but the adjacent restaurant is open for business. Fuelling up for the remainder of the drive, we had some of the best coffee in the Hurunui District and deliciously hearty burgers. Be sure to look out for Frog Rock, the rock formations are amazing – I couldn’t help gawking as we drove past.

July 9, 2017