Travel tips in City Guide

Queenstown: A small town, a big lake, and an even bigger mouth

Queenstown is officially a town. That’s what it says on the signs, on the local council’s website and in every travel guide, which proclaims it with the same solemnity as a baker who calls his bread rolls ‘artisan’. In reality, with just under 29,000 inhabitants, Queenstown is more like a particularly noisy village that has managed to amass more worldwide fame than cities with ten times the population and a fraction of the adrenaline. You could say that Queenstown is to a proper big city what a pocket knife is to a jackhammer: smaller, noisier, and not something you should carry in your trouser pocket without caution.

Tauranga: A city that describes itself as an ‘outline’ and yet still exists

Tauranga is situated on the east coast of New Zealand’s North Island, has a population of just over 120,000 and is therefore the country’s sixth-largest city. That’s a bit like boasting that you’re the sixth-oldest piece of chewing gum stuck under a school desk. Nevertheless, being the sixth-largest city in an entire country carries a certain dignity, much like a bronze medallist who doesn’t tell anyone that there were only six competitors.

The name comes from the Māori language and roughly translates as ‘sheltered anchorage’. That’s quite apt, as the town lies at the head of a large harbour, sheltered by Matakana Island like a child hiding their younger sister from the wind without putting in too much effort.

Right at the harbour entrance stands Mount Maunganui, affectionately known as ‘The Mount’ – officially a suburb of Tauranga, but unofficially a town in its own right with a mind of its own. It is one of New Zealand’s best-known holiday destinations, famous for its beaches, and its relationship with Tauranga is much like that of an extroverted younger brother to his family of tax advisers: technically part of the same family, but in a different league when it comes to how it feels.

Rotorua: The place where the ground has a life of its own

Somewhere in the heart of New Zealand’s North Island lies a town that can’t quite make up its mind whether it’s a spa town, a volcano or a particularly grumpy administrative unit. Rotorua lies on the southern shore of a lake that gave it its name – which is a bit of a cop-out, considering that ‘Rotorua’ simply means ‘second lake’ in Māori. They could have made a bit more of an effort. They didn’t.

Around two hundred and fifty thousand years ago, the earth exploded here with a force that wouldn’t even feature in today’s travel brochures, leaving behind a crater rim that has bravely supported the tourist infrastructure ever since. The ground beneath seems to have concluded ever since that peace and quiet is overrated.

Discovering San Francisco: Must-See Museums, Parks, and Landmarks

Welcome, dear traveler, to San Francisco, a city where history, culture, and natural beauty converge in a delightful, fog-wrapped package. Whether you're here for a day, a week, or planning an extended stay, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Let’s dive into the treasures of the City by the Bay.

Navigating San Francisco: A Tourist’s Guide to the City by the Bay

Welcome to San Francisco! The city where the hills have hills, the fog has a name (Karl, if you must know), and the public transportation system seems to have been designed by an artist rather than an engineer. First things first, let’s get you oriented without too much existential dread.

Stride and Ride: Mastering the Art of Movement in Washington D.C.

Welcome to the whirlwind world of Washington D.C., where pedestrians reign supreme and vehicles often wish they were somewhere else. This guide will navigate you through the ins and outs of getting around America's capital—whether on foot, by Metro, or the daredevil's choice: by car. Prepare for a journey where comfort meets convenience, and even the sidewalks seem to whisper secrets of the city's storied past.

A Backpacker's Guide to the Unexpected, Unbelievable, and Utterly Unmissable Coffs Harbour

As a backpacker, you might have often thought to yourself, "I wish I could find a place that combines the extraordinary charm of a beachside town with the thrilling adventure of a wildlife retreat, all seasoned with a hint of absurdity that defies logic." Well, rejoice! The universe, in its infinite wisdom, has heard your plea and conjured up a place called Coffs Harbour, Australia.

Auckland: 53 volcanoes, two seas and a traffic jam that was already there before the city

Auckland is New Zealand’s largest city, but not its capital. It was the capital until 1865, when the government moved to Wellington because it was closer to the South Island. Auckland has never accepted this reasoning, but has never formally objected to it either – which in New Zealand is considered the strongest form of protest. Today, almost a third of all New Zealanders live here, mostly in their cars.

Top 10 Free Things to Do and See for Backpackers in Sydney

Sydney, Australia's gem, is a city brimming with iconic landmarks, vibrant culture, and stunning natural beauty. However, exploring this magnificent city doesn't always have to come with a hefty price tag. Welcome to our guide on the top 10 free things to do in Sydney! From basking in the glory of sun-kissed beaches, trekking stunning coastal walks, to immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of art and history, Sydney has a plethora of cost-free experiences that cater to all types of travellers.

A Backpacker's Guide to Brisbane on a Shoestring

Alrighty folks, today we're heading down under to the beautiful city of Brisbane, Australia! A vibrant hub that's often overlooked by its big sisters Sydney and Melbourne, Brisbane has a charm all its own, and we're here to explore it without breaking the bank. So, grab your sunnies and let's get started!

Perth-fect Adventures: A Penny Pincher's Guide to Backpacking in Perth

Hello, fellow wanderers of the world! Today, let's talk about a spot that’s often overlooked, but should never be underestimated. I'm talking about Perth, the capital city of Western Australia. Perth is the place where you want to park your pack! Known for its picturesque beaches, sprawling parks, and vibrant arts scene, Perth has something for everyone. And the best part? It's all achievable on a shoestring budget! So, grab your sunnies, slap on some sunscreen, and let's explore the best and most budget-friendly adventures Perth has to offer.

Adelaide Uncovered: A Backpacker's Guide to Thrifty Thrills

Today, we're heading down under to Adelaide, the vibrant capital city of South Australia. This cosmopolitan coastal city is brimming with culture, arts, food, wine, and a whole lot of adventure. And the best part? Many of its treasures are either free or won't break your budget. So, hold onto your backpacks as we journey through Adelaide's delights that won't cost you a fortune.

A Guide For the Venturesome, Hungry, and Generally Curious to Byron bay

Welcome, fellow globe-trotters, to our little corner of the internet where we explore the mesmerizing, the enchanting, and sometimes the downright weird of the world's most fascinating destinations. Today, we're pulling back the curtain on a place that's a bit like the last piece of chocolate in a mixed box – unexpected, intriguing, and undeniably delightful: Byron Bay, Australia. This gem of a coastal town nestled in the eastern corner of Australia, is the kaleidoscope of landscapes, flavors, and experiences. Imagine, if you will, a place where the ocean frolics with the shoreline, the lighthouse stands tall like a seasoned storyteller, and the food scene is as vibrant as a busker's tune on a sunny afternoon. If you've ever wanted to surf a wave, embrace your inner yogi, or just find yourself amidst nature's spectacle – all with a belly full of scrumptious food – then you've found your next dream destination in Byron Bay. So, strap on your virtual hiking boots and let's embark on this adventure to discover why Byron Bay should be the next pin on your travel map.

Canberra: A Uniquely Vibrant Adventure

Canberra, the capital city of Australia, a place where the kangaroos hang out in backyards like oversized, bouncy dogs, is often overlooked by backpackers on their way to Sydney or Melbourne. Little do they know they're missing out on a world full of gastronomical delights, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences akin to the feeling one might have when you unexpectedly discover a $20 note in your old jeans pocket.

Airlie Beach: A beach that isn’t really a beach, and other truths

Airlie Beach is a good 1,100 kilometres north of Brisbane, which, by Australian standards, is practically next door. The town is home to around 1,300 people. You might also read online that the figure is 25,000, but this refers to the wider surrounding area and has about as much to do with the town itself as a glossy brochure has to do with a hotel room.

At its core, Airlie Beach is a street with ambitions. Shute Harbour Road links hostels, pubs and travel agencies with the regularity of an assembly line. The town has exactly one purpose: it is the gateway to the Whitsunday Islands and the Great Barrier Reef. Incidentally, the Reef is the largest living structure on Earth and was built without planning permission – something that is surprisingly rare in Queensland. Airlie fulfils its purpose with the dedication of a waiting room that knows full well that nobody has come there for its sake.