9 Must See Vacation Destinations in New Zealand

When planning your trip to New Zealand, you may not know exactly where to begin. Here’s a list of 9 ‘Must-Dos’ to get you started. Don’t forget if you need help planning your dream vacation, need the best deals, looking for suggestions, contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 today!

Queenstown

Staggering beauty and heart-pumping thrills await in the resort town of Queenstown, which is also known for its Hobbits—much of the Lord of the Rings trilogy was filmed in the area. Outdoor enthusiasts flock to Queenstown for the kayaking, bungee jumping, jetboating, white-water rafting, hiking and skiing. More mild-mannered adventurers can take a quiet cruise through nearby Milford Sound, part of the Fjordland National Park World Heritage area, or sample South Island pinot noir from one of the region’s 75 wineries.

Whitianga

Whitianga is located on the North Island about 2.45 hour drive from Auckland.  Enjoy beaches, water sports, scenic flights and boat excursions of Mercury Bay. Whitianga has great seafood and forests;  is known for a forest walk or two.

Blenheim

Enjoy sampling the wines of the Marlborough Wine Region in Blenheim, an agricultural town in the heart of New Zealand’s renowned wine hub. More than 20 wineries are just a hop, skip and a corkscrew away from Blenheim, where a stream of cafes and restaurants serve up tasty, artisan fare. One of the sunniest towns in New Zealand, Blenheim is the perfect destination for foodies and wine lovers who love to soak up the sun.

Wanaka

Wanaka is on the South Island and it appeals to both adventure lovers and relaxation-minded travelers. Situated on the crystal-clear waters of New Zealand’s fourth-largest lake, just a short drive from Mount Aspiring National Park, Wanaka is an ideal spot to go fishing, hiking, skiing, wine-tasting or golfing. The city also hosts Warbirds Over Wanaka, the largest three-day air show in the Southern Hemisphere.

Waiheke Island

Artists and free-spirits mingle with the rich and famous on this blissful island, a haven of beautiful beaches, gastronomical treasures and small wineries. So much to explore, you can browse the dozens of art galleries and craft stores of the Waiheke Arts Trail, take a swim in emerald waters, soar above the landscape on a chartered scenic flight, stop for a casual beachfront café meal or an upscale, multi-course affair. Waiheke boasts several boutique vineyards, your perfect spot for savoring New Zealand’s fine wines.

Tauranga Island

Tauranga Island boasts lush parks and golden beaches, making it a popular destination for outdoorsy folks and watersports lovers. Located on New Zealand’s North Island, you’ll find a variety of opportunities for surfing, white water rafting, kiteboarding, hiking and golfing. Take a refreshing dip in the swimming holes by Kaiate Falls, visit one of Tauranga’s amusement park, take a guided nature tour or swim with dolphins in the Bay of Plenty.

Kaikoura

Kaikoura means “meal of crayfish,” a nod to the New Zealand township’s seafood-rich origins. Located on the South Island, this settlement provides an ideal base camp for observing the abundant offshore wildlife (sperm whales, dusky dolphins, orcas and fur seals) and dining on fresh local catch.

Te Anau

A gateway to Fjordland National Park, Te Anau is nestled on the edge of a lake of the same name—the perfect site for jetboating or fishing. Embark on one of many day-long or multi-day hiking or walking tracks, then enjoy a soak or massage at a spa and a delicious café meal. Nature lovers will marvel at the Te Anau glowworm caves, the Wildlife Park and Ivon Wilson Park

The Remarkables

The Remarkables are a mountain range and skifield in Otago in the South Island of New Zealand. Located on the southeastern shore of Lake Wakatipu, the range rises sharply to create an impressive backdrop for the waters. The range is clearly visible from the nearby town of Queenstown. The Remarkables are welcoming and relaxed for beginners and challenging for the more experienced.

Ready to plan your New Zealand Vacation or Australian Dream Vacation? Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 today!

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Hidden Destinations in Australia You Must Visit

Are you ready to get off the beaten path and explore something different? Looking for some hidden attractions Australia has to offer? To list truly all of the hidden gems Australia has would be impossible, rather this is just a few of some of the remarkable destinations that are worth seeing.  Do you want to get off the tourist trail and still get the most out of your time? Keep reading to discover these hidden destinations in Australia that you must visit on your next trip!

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22 Day Australia & New Zealand

Glasshouse Mountains National Park

Located about 1 hour drive North of Brisbane, and just a little inland from the Sunshine Coast, this park is a truly amazing paradise for nature lovers. There are hiking tracks, ranging in difficulty, leading through the forests to various lookouts, which offer panoramic views. These mountains are located in the Aboriginal lands of the Gubbi Gubbi people, and legend says they are part of a family.

Magnetic Island

Magnetic Island lies just off the coast next to the northern tropical town/city of Townsville in Queensland. It was given its name by Captain James Cook, who reported that the ships compass was behaving strangely when he sailed past. With an average of 320 sunny days per year, stunning beaches and walking trails, this is a destination you must visit.

The Torres Strait Islands

These islands which stretch about 120 KM North to South, are an archipelago of small islands between Cape York, the northern point of the Queensland and the south coast of Papua New Guinea. It is a unique part of Australia and unlike any other part of this vast country. You can do all sorts of fun activities like 4WD, camping, swimming and more.

Litchfield National Park

Located just south of Darwin, this national park is filled with things to do and see. Take a guided Ranger tour, go swimming in local swimming holes, hiking, camping, 4WD tours, and much more. With stunning waterfalls, gorges, and viewing platforms, this park is truly a treat for the eyes.

Broome

Located in western Australia, it isn’t really hidden, but many tourists have not heard of it. It is a remote location that is gorgeous, full of white sand beaches, rich heritage and more. It is absolutely stunning.

Esperance

Located in the southern coast of Western Australia, Esperance is a dream come true.You will find the whitest beaches here, and the area is set against a stunning backdrop.  Ideal for swimming and snorkeling, filled with great fishing spots, outdoor activities and more!

Kangaroo Island

Located south of Adelaide, Kangaroo Island is a perfect escape from city life. Take the time to explore over 509 KM of coastline. There are so many sights and activities, eco-adventures, culture tours, wildlife parks, beaches, bays and coves, you will have so much to do! If you like to swim, snorkel, go for a marine tour, surf, fish, scuba dive and more, then you must go see Kangaroo Island!

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Australia & New Zealand in 19 days

22 Day Australia & New Zealand

Looking for more amazing Australian destinations or ready to plan your dream vacation? Call a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829

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The Cheapest Days to Travel in Summer

If you are like many people, you are probably planning a vacation during the summer holiday in the months of June, July or August of 2017; did you know that generally speaking, there are certain days and dates to fly that may save you on airline tickets? Of course the number one tip to save money is one that works year round, always compare airfares and even better, ask a Travel Team Agent to look for the cheapest flights by calling 1-800-788-0829.

Travel Team Agents have been planning dream vacations and flights for over 38 years, so we have access to the best deals, and best of all, it doesn’t cost you extra.

Cheapest Days to Fly in Summer

For U.S. domestic travel

After June 15 – Fares rise: Prices tend to rise after June 15^th and you might see the most expensive vacation fares appear. If you fly before June 14^th you may be able to save a bit more.

After Aug. 30 – Fares drop: Aug. 30 is the start of the less expensive fall airfare season. If you are able to delay your trip until later in August, tickets will usually be cheaper.

For Europe/transatlantic travel

Peak-season travel begins about May 12, so be prepared for slightly higher airfares for Europe until roughly August 21.

Aug. 21 – Fares drop: After August 21, the fall season pricing begins and fares go down.

For Asia travel

June 9 – Fares rise again; if you can, begin your trip by June 8.

July 20 – Fares typically rise around this mid-summer time frame.

Aug. 7 – Summer prices tend to drop a portion after this date.

Aug. 20 – Fares drop: After August 20, you will typically see a more significant price-drop.

Tips for Finding The Cheapest Deals for Summer

You can generally save any time of year by traveling on the cheapest dates. Keep in mind, these are based off of trends, so this is general information that may vary to some degree, when in doubt, always

ask a Travel Team Agent to look for the cheapest flights by calling 1-800-788-0829.

In the U.S.: Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday.

In Europe and other international cities, traveling during midweek days will typically save you on airfare.

Always compare airfares; no one airline always has the best ticket prices. Better yet, have a Travel Team Agent compare airfare for you so you get the best deal, call 1-800-788-0829 for more information.

Connecting flights might save you as well as longer flights can cost less if you include a stop, rather than non-stop. When in doubt, always ask a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 for the best travel advice.

What to Do for Summer Travel Now

Shop for airfare now: Even if you’re only traveling locally, you can shop for June tickets now. Not sure where to go? Ask a Travel Team Agent for advice or to plan your dream vacation at 1-800-788-0829.

Ask your Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 for the best advice in planning your next vacation

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9 reasons you should Explore Europe on a River Cruise

A European River Cruise is one of the best ways to explore inland Europe, visiting cities, towns and villages that traditional big ships usually can’t access. In addition to this, there are plenty of reasons you should take a European River Cruise……

You can see a whirlwind of cities and have zero stress

As you sample several European cities in a week, you won’t have to deal with unpacking and re-packing at every stop. Not to mention the washing and ironing. Once on board a river cruise, you slide your suitcase under the bed and focus on more pressing matters, like whether to choose steak or salmon for dinner, or red wine or white.

You’ll have more freedom than you think

River Cruises offer a lot of time for exploration. You can go on shore excursions and explore cities on bikes, venture into ancient alleyways, parks and more – you won’t be herded into big groups with 30 minutes to spare, you can usually take your time.

Most Are Environmentally Friendly

In this day and age, travel has a more green side, and river cruises are no different. Boats now have reduced diesel engines or low emission powering systems to LED lights and solar panels. Many cruise ships power up on shore grids when docked and many use food only sourced from local farmers markets along the way. Good for the environment and delicious!

You Will Make Friends

As you cruise along one of Europe’s spectacular rivers, it is the perfect opportunity to get to know other passengers. There are far less people on a River Cruise than an Ocean Cruise, so you might find yourself making friends in the Jacuzzi, dining with a new group of pals, and more! The chances to socialize on a cruise are limitless.

You’ll get to know the diverse staff

River cruise ships now consist of an eclectic mix of workers whom you’ll have the chance to befriend in no time. Thanks to this melting pot of nationalities, you will get to mix and mingle with so many interesting people.

You’ll Retrace Great Journeys Of The Past

As you journey along ancient rivers, you might feel like a Lord, a Queen, as you explore historical places, sip brew at 19^th century alehouses, visit museums and more – it is an experience you cannot miss.

There are no hidden costs (on certain trips)

Choose the right cruise and what you pay is what you get. No need to bring a penny extra penny, Many cruises offer fully inclusive services, such as on-board meals, laundry, wi-fi, top shelf alcohol and more! Ask a Travel Team Agent for information at 1-800-788-0829.

You Will Save Time

Once on board, you just have to enjoy the ride. Factor in the time saved from cooking, cleaning, changing hotels, paying for anything and you’ll feel like the countries are being brought to you.

Cruises have never been so varied

Whether traveling with a partner, a sibling, or flying the flag solo, a cruise exists for you. Many companies offer special single rates as well as the twin and double rooms. There’s also the fully-inclusive, part-inclusive; the alcohol-excluded and the alcohol-fueled.

Ask your Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 for the best advice in planning your next River Cruise

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15 Things To Do Before Traveling Abroad

There are so many exciting things to consider when traveling abroad. It is never fun to forget to pack something or to do that important thing and realize it after you are away from home. Before you go on any international trip, use this handy guide to help you remember what  you need to do before your trip:

1. Make sure you have a valid passport.

If you have a passport, check the expiration date of your passport and whether there are any blank pages remaining. Make sure to check that your passport does not expire less than six months before your return date (some countries will not allow entry if your passport expiration date is less than 6 months before your departure date).  Make sure there are still blank pages left in your passport for entry and exit stamps. If you have any questions, your Travel Team Agent can help you find answers, click here to contact an agent or call 1-800-788-0829

If you don’t have a passport yet and are thinking of traveling abroad in the near future, make sure you apply for a passport as far in advance as possible.

2. Check visa requirements.

Check to see if the country you are traveling to requires a visa. Ask your Travel Team Agent for more information about travel visas, call 1-800-788-0829

3. Research whether you need vaccines or malaria pills. 

Visit your closest travel clinic to get any vaccines you need for your destination.  In addition to vaccines, you might need malaria pills or a yellow fever shot depending on where you are traveling. If you are unsure, ask a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829.

4. If you plan on driving, get an International Driving Permit.

If you plan to rent a car, you might need an International Driving Permit.

5. Purchase a travel adaptor if needed.

You may need an adaptor to use electronics in other countries; research this to find out and bring an adaptor if you find out you will need it.

6. Apply for travel credit cards and debit cards.

Check with your credit card company to see if your credit card charges foreign fees if you use your card abroad. If you don’t have a credit card for overseas travel, consider opening up one. Some have no foreign transaction fees and you might be able to earn double miles on travel purchases! Ideally you should have 2 credit and debit cards in case one is lost or stolen.

7. Let your bank know your travel plans.

Make sure to contact all banks that have issued your credit, debit and ATM cards and let them know of your travel plans and where you are going.  If you do not let your bank know you will be traveling abroad, when they see foreign charges they could put a hold on your account for suspicious activity.

8. Make sure you have travel insurance.

Check to see if your travel insurance covers you abroad.  If not, research and purchase travel insurance before leaving your country.  You can purchase medical insurance, trip cancellation insurance and more.  Ask your Travel Team Agent for more information about travel insurance, call 1-800-788-0829

9.  Research options for calling home.

Are you able to use your cell phone data and texting when traveling abroad? Before you travel, call your provider to check prices to call, text and use data from abroad.  You might be able to sign up for an international plan to lower costs.

10. Print and share itinerary and hotel, flight and other confirmations and make a copy of your passport and visa.

It is a good idea to print a hard copy of your flight and hotel e-mail confirmations, this way you are able to pull up your information in the event you don’t have wi-fi or data on your phone. Plus, it is good to have a paper version of your confirmations in case an immigration officer requests a copy of your plans.

11. Register with your embassy or consulate.

Register with your embassy or consulate – this will let your government know where you are in case of an emergency.

12.  Pay or schedule any bills due while you are abroad.

If you are planning to travel for a short time, you might want to schedule to pay any bills that are due while you are gone. This way you don’t miss a payment because you aren’t checking e-mail as often.

13. Put a hold on mail.

If you are gone for over a week, contact your post office to hold your mail.

14.  Download books, movies or apps on your phone, e-reader and computer.

You might need entertainment for the flight and travel so why not download any books, movies, reading material or apps you need on your smartphone, e-reader and computer before you leave. Some apps even allow you to read or watch your material offline so you don’t need to use data.

15. Check your packing list to make sure you have all essentials.

Put together and check your packing list, in case you need to purchase anything before your trip.  Make sure you fill your prescriptions and bring copies as well. Determine how much money you will exchange and how much to bring as well as local places to change your currency. Check your packing list to make sure you have everything and in case you need to purchase anything additional.

Not sure where to go and need help planning your next vacation? Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 today!

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8 Tips For Planning The Best Summer Vacation Ever

It’s the season of summer vacations and here are some great vacation planning tips for staying organized, finding flight deals, packing and staying healthy on the road:

Start Planning Now

Don’t wait to book until the last minute – this only results in higher pricing especially when it comes to flights and hotels during peak seasons like summer. Start planning ahead of time, like now!

Get Everyone On Board With The Destination

Sometime during planning, there might be someone who wants to go somewhere different. This can cause a headache if not everyone one the trip is having a good time. Make sure the itinerary includes something each person wants to do. If you are unsure of what to do or where to go to accommodate each person, ask your Travel Team Agent for suggestions, call 1-800-788-0829 today for advice and expert planning tips.

Find The Best Flights

Be sure to ask a Travel Team Agent for the best flights. Using a Travel Team Agent costs you nothing extra and in fact, you will save money because we have access to the best deals, prices and can get you the best deal for your flights, hotels, and more! Contact a Travel Team Agent Today at 1-800-788-0829 to start planning!

Chart Your Itinerary And Print Back-Ups

There is nothing wrong with writing out your daily to do list on paper, if that is what will help you. This way you can make changes before you import it into a digital itinerary or calendar.  Keep printed copies of airline tickets and other reservations just in case you cannot access them digitally. Also, securely scan and upload a copy of passports or other ID to a cloud for easy access anywhere in the world in case of loss.

Stay Healthy And Hydrated

It’s good idea to pack healthy snacks like granola, nuts, or fruit for each journey. Make sure you drink plenty of water to stay hydrated in the summer heat. Start filling up on the water before you get to your destination, stay hydrated at the airport, on the plane, and drink bottled water before each meal. You will have more energy to sight see! Staying hydrated also beats jet lag. Pack your multi-vitamins with you too. Carry hand sanitizers and antibacterial wipes to quickly wipe down airplane arm rests and things you might touch for long periods of time. Getting sick on vacation can ruin your trip, stay ahead of the game and stay healthy.

Make Lists And Use Packing Cubes

There is nothing worse than forgetting something important. Making a list of essentials that you keep in your pocket so you can check off each time you depart somewhere. Packing cubes can be helpful to keep organized, keeping t-shirts in one, pants in another, and organize your outfits while you travel.

Find Pac-kable Toys And Travel Games For The Kids

If you are heading to a beach, bring pack-able sand and water toys such as, inflatable pool toys and much more to keep the kiddos occupied, and it takes up less space. Make a list of travel games that the kids will enjoy such as mad libs, cards and other compact games that are great for travel.

Let (Some) Things Slide

It’s tough to keep some rules that are non-negotiable at home in force while on the road especially when kids are in tow. I let my daughter use the iPad for longer than usual while on planes and road trips. There might be a bit more dessert ordered and later bed times. Flexibility goes a long way when people are out of their normal routines. Take a deep breath, have a refreshing sip, and let (some) things slide.

Not sure where to go and need help planning your next vacation? Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829 today!

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Things To Know Before Travel To Australia

Before you travel to Australia there are some things you should know. Here is a master list of helpful things to know to help you better prepare for you trip to Australia.

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Australia & New Zealand in 19 days

22 Day Australia & New Zealand

1.  Cars drive on the left side of the road. This may seem irrelevant to your trip, but all pedestrians need to be aware that when crossing the street you have to look right first, then left.
2.  Capsicum means pepper. So, when you are using the self-checkout at grocery stores and are weighing your peppers, they will be found under the letter “c.”
3. Never listen to the weather forecast, and be prepared for anything. I think this one is self-explanatory.
4. When someone asks you what your Surname is, they mean your last name
5. If you want to sound Australian, all you have to do is shorten your words and add a “y’ to just about everything. Example: Brekky, Barby.
6. People do not always say “God bless you,” even though every Australian you ask claims that they do. But, when you are sitting in a silent lecture hall and you sneeze, don’t be expecting a response from anyone.
7. There aren’t kangaroos roaming the streets everywhere you go. Yes, you can find them if you travel inland toward what they call “the bush,” but finding one in a place like Brisbane would be like seeing a seagull in New York City.
8. You do not need to take your shoes off when you go through airport security, and it makes the process of traveling much more convenient.
9. Pies are not made with fruit. Instead, they have meat in them, and you can find them on every block at the chain cafe, “Pie Face.” Just look for the red signs with smiley faces on them.
10. Tim Tams are the new Oreo.
11. The sun is a lot stronger. Consider this your warning, and don’t think you can get away with SPF 8 like you can on the Jersey Shore. I learned the hard way.
12. Australian Rules Football and Rugby replace Football. Make sure to study up because the rules are much more complicated.
13. The Australian version of Ketchup is called “Tomato Sauce” and has a different name for a reason.
14. Koalas have pouches, along with pretty much every other well-known mammal in Australia besides dingoes. This is something everyone should know while living in the land of marsupials.
15. Coins are much more relevant because some of them (the gold ones) are worth 1 or 2 dollars. It is easy to disregard the change in your wallet or even on the ground, but make sure to be aware of its value; you could be richer than you thought.
16. The term “sweet as” is actually not as inappropriate as it sounds. In fact, it stands for “sweet as pie,” and is often used as a general expression like “OK” or “good.”
17. Uggs are cheaper and probably a better quality, but that does not mean they are more popular.
18. Worshipping Steve Irwin has not yet turned into a religion, even though it should.
19. Eggs are not refrigerated in grocery stores. Don’t worry – they are still safe to eat.

Ready to plan your dream vacation to Australia or elsewhere? Call a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for more information!

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