How to Spend a Week in Melbourne

Posted 04.05.19 by Travel Team

How to Spend a Week in Melbourne

Melbourne is one of the world’s most livable cities. With a combination of world-class dining, fashion, shopping, art galleries and sports you won’t be disappointed when you visit. Here are some tips for exploring the city and everything in between.

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1 Explore Melbourne’s Laneways

This is one of the ‘must do’s’ in Melbourne. Begin your vacation by navigating through Melbourne’s urban center which is filled with a maze of cobbled laneways. Find beautiful arcades, cafes, coffee shops, boutiques and more.

2 Take a Road Trip to the Great Ocean Road

Travel to Victoria’s scenic Great Ocean Road and take a road trip. Stretching 234 km and only an hour and a half south-west of Melbourne, this drive is filled with sights and attractions. See the Twelve Apostles, Lord Ard Gorge, London Arch and more!

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3 See the Animals at the Zoo

Melbourne has three major zoos and an aquarium. The Melbourne Zoo is Australias oldest zoo and features a range of exhibits such as the tropical butterfly house and trails of elephants.

4 Shop til You Drop

Melbourne has amazing shopping and markets filled with produce, art and fashion. Don’t miss Queen Victoria Markets which is the largest open-air market in the Southern Hemisphere. Find fresh produce, meats, seafood, clothing, shoes, jewelry and so much more. The market is open every day except for Mondays and Wednesdays.

5 Sip cocktails at a rooftop bar

Enjoy drinks at one of the rooftop bars with a view. Visit the bohemian neighborhoods of Fitzroy and Carlton and watch the sunset with a drink in your hand.

Need help planning your trip? Contact a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for more information!

6 Discover Melbourne’s Gardens and Rivers

After some busy days, try exploring at a slower pace and visit the tranquil parts of the city. The Royal Botanical Gardens spans 94 acres and is filled with 10,000 plant species, 11 lawns, a lake cafes and more. End your day with a cruise along Yarra River.

7 Taste Melbourne’s best Coffee

Melbourne is home to thousands of cafes and some of the world’s best baristas. The signature drink is a flat white, which is similar to a latte, and you will also be able to enjoy other kinds of drinks from a cold-drip, matcha tea latte, blue algae and even turmeric infused lattes!

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Top 8 Mistakes Tourists Make in New Zealand

Posted 03.29.19 by Travel Team

Top 8 Mistakes Tourists Make in New Zealand

Planning to visit New Zealand? It is a beautiful country and fairly easy to get around. You can make your trip the best by avoiding these common mistakes tourists make when they visit New Zealand.

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Planning Too Much

It is always good to plan ahead, especially for accommodations in the major cities. The thing about New Zealand is it is great for going with the flow. There are few times when hotels and attractions are completely sold out, so you can often find good availability for sites. Keep in mind that January and school holidays will be busier, but you can usually find openings for many attractions in New Zealand.

Trying to See Everything

New Zealand may seem small on a map but the variety and things to do are huge! Unlike Australia, you don’t need to cover vast distances between sights. Make sure to give yourself time to see each destination. A good rule of thumb is if you want to see both the North and South Islands, allow for 2 weeks on each island. You can see a lot of things in less time, but this way you give yourself plenty of time to enjoy your trip.

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Get your Belongings Stolen

New Zealand is a very safe country to visit. There is always a risk of theft anywhere you go, and most theft occurs in parked vehicle break ins. If you do park, hide your belongings and keep important travel documents and cash on you.

Don’t forget to Wave

People in New Zealand are very friendly. When traveling, wave to a passerby and you will almost always be greeted with a wave and smile. If you need directions, ask, most people will gladly help.

Staying on the Beaten Track

There are several places that are well known tourist spots. Many of your best experiences will be if you get off the track to the places many tourists do not usually go. Explore New Zealand and see parts that you don’t see in the guidebooks.

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Driving Over the Speed Limit

Make sure to know the speed limits and driving laws in New Zealand. Genreally the speed limit is 50km per hour in urban areas and 100 km hr on open roads. Speed limits are strictly enforced by speed cameras and police. Don’t ruin your holiday by getting a ticket.

Buying Wine in a Restaurant

You can Bring Your Own Wine into a restaurant and pay a corkage fee! This way you can take a wine of your choice instead of only tasting what a particular restaurant may serve.

Travel During High Season

The High season in New Zealand is during the summer from December to February. Weather is the warmest and many kiwis are on holiday so prices can be higher during this time. Travel out of high season and enjoy fewer crowds and save a few dollars.

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Australia’s Seasons

Posted 03.26.19 by Travel Team

Australia’s Seasons

Australia is a vast continent so before you explore you should check what time of year it is where you are going. Australia’s seasons are reversed of the seasons In the Northern hemisphere; the seasons and climates are so very different depending on where you travel to.

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Summer is from December 1 thru the end of February. Autumn is from March thru May, winter is June to August and Spring is from September to November.

Each season starts on the first day of the month.

Although there four official seasons in Australia, there is a wide variety of climate variations due to the size of Australia. The Southeast and West have a climate that is comfortable and does not get too extreme. The north of Australia is tropical and have 2 distinct climates – wet (November – April) and dry (April to November).

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During Autumn which begins March 1, Australia receives a lot of rain. Sydney for instance will see an average of 12 days rain during the month. The rest of the year is pretty dry. It is smart to travel with an umbrella during this season or pack a jacket in case of rain.

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Useful Facts & Tips for Australia Travel

Posted 03.21.19 by Travel Team

Useful Facts & Tips for Australia Travel

Planning a trip to Australia?

How long is the flight to Australia from North America?

There are several airlines that fly non-stop between Los Angeles, San Francisco and Vancouver to Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne. A non-stop flight from Los Angeles to Sydney will take about 14 hours.

What language is spoken in Australia?

The official language of Australia is English. Australia is a multi-cultural nation with a diverse population so you might hear a variety of languages spoken in cities and towns

What is the currency in Australia?

The currency is AUD, Australian dollars. It comes in denominations of $5, $10, $20, $50 and $100 notes. Coins come in 5, 10, 20 and 50 cent and one and two dollar denominations.

What is the Emergency Number in Australia?

The Emergency number is 000 for police, fire and ambulance.

How do you make an international call to Australia?

The international dialing code to call Australia is 61. Each region also has an area code. To dial internationally from within Australia is 0011.

What is the legal drinking age in Australia?

18 years old. You have to provide proof of age with a passport or driver’s license.

Is it normal to bargain with prices in Australia?

It is not customary to haggle or bargain with prices.

Can I use credit cards in Australia?

Australia accepts American Express, Diners Club, Mastercard, Visa and more. A good tip is to carry credit cards and not much cash. Check with your bank or credit institution to see if there are fees to use your card overseas.

Is it safe to go swimming in Australia’s beaches?

The most popular beaches usually are patrolled by volunteer lifesavers from the months of October – April. Red and yellow flags mark the safest swimming areas. Always check in advance with local authorities for jelly fish issues in the northern regions of Australia

Check out our most popular vacations that include both Australia & New Zealand!

Australia & New Zealand in 19 days from $3,599

22 Day Australia & New Zealand from $4,999

14 Best of Australia & New Zealand from $3,299

Ready to plan your dream vacation?

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New Zealand Highlights Middle Earth Tour from $2,149 USD

Posted 03.20.19 by Travel Team

WHAT’S INCLUDED

3 nights Hotel St Moritz, Queenstown
3 nights Wellington
2 nights Novotel Rotorua Lakeside
1 night Heritage Auckland
4 days rental car
Nomad Safaris – Half-day Lord of the Rings tour in Queenstown
Flat Earth Tours – Full-day Middle Earth tour in Wellington
Agrodome Sheep Show
Tamaki Maori Village evening cultural experience
Hobbiton Movie Set tour
Private airport transfers

New Zealand Highlights Middle Earth Tour

The ultimate trip for Lord of the Rings fans! Discover the Hobbiton Movie Set, tour the production studio behind the films, and immerse yourself in gorgeous Middle Earth scenery.

We planned this New Zealand Highlights: Middle Earth Tour for a couple who were big Lord of the Rings fans and wanted to see the Middle Earth scenery in New Zealand. They went “there and back again,” visiting both the North and South Islands to see amazing film sites, the real-life Hobbiton, and more. They loved feeling like they had stepped into Middle Earth!

They began their New Zealand Highlights: Middle Earth Tour in Queenstown, where beautiful Lake Wakatipu and the Remarkables mountain range make you feel instantly immersed in nature. In Queenstown, they took a full-day scenic tour of several Lord of the Rings filming sites, including the locations for Isengard, Lothlorien, and the Seat of Seeing. Then, they had some leisure time to spend in New Zealand’s adventure capital.

Next for their New Zealand Highlights: Middle Earth Tour, they flew to the charming town of Wellington, Peter Jackson’s hometown. The Lord Of The Rings director loves Wellington so much, he based his production company and special effects workshop there! While in Wellington, our clients toured more film locations, including the Shire, the Gardens of Isengard, and Minas Tirith. They also visited Weta Workshop, where many of the special effects and props for the movies were created, and saw the Windows into Workshop exhibition.

Their New Zealand Highlights: Middle Earth Tour continued in Rotorua, home to fascinating geothermal sites and the most accessible Maori cultural experiences. They saw a fun sheep show, complete with a sheepdog demonstration, at the Agrodome and had an immersive Maori culture tour that finished with a traditional hangi feast, where the food is cooked slowly in underground ovens. The next day, they continued their Lord Of The Rings experience with a visit to the Hobbiton Movie Set. They even had a pint at The Green Dragon Inn!

At last, it was time to say goodbye to Middle Earth and head back to reality. They spent a night in Auckland before heading to the airport to begin their journey home.

VIEW ITINERARY

Day 1
Welcome to New Zealand! Upon arrival in Queenstown, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel. Superbly positioned in a spectacular mountain lake setting within walking distance of Queenstown attractions, Hotel St Moritz is a unique place of majestic beauty and legendary experiences. The hotel embodies the spirit of its alpine surroundings.
Hotel St Moritz

Day 2
Today, embark on a fantastic journey through Lord of the Rings scenery. You will be taken on a scenic tour that offers breathtaking mountain and forest views along the shores of Lake Wakatipu towards Glenorchy and on into Paradise. See the film locations of Isengard and Ithilien Camp, plus beech forests near those used for Lothlorien. You can also visit the area used to film the Seat of Seeing/the battle of Amon Hen.
Hotel St Moritz

Day 3
Relax and explore Queenstown at your leisure today. Mountain biking, fishing, hiking, kayaking, shopping, and touring the wine country are all good ways to spend the day. Or, for an iconic New Zealand adventure, take the leap and go bungee jumping!
Hotel St Moritz

Day 4
Today, make the short flight to Wellington on the North Island, with private transfers to and from the airport. Your modern and comfortable hotel is conveniently located in the heart of Wellington, just minutes from the Cable Car, Parliament, and Lambton Quay’s shopping district and nearby to Te Papa museum and Westpac Stadium.
4-star hotel in Wellington

Day 5
Get the ultimate Lord of the Rings experience today from our mates at Flat Earth Tours. Visit the Wellington film locations used for the Shire, the Gardens of Isengard, the River Anduin, Helm’s Deep and Minas Tirith, and where the Hobbits raced to the ferry and hid from the Nazgul. Explore Rivendell and the riverside spot where Aragorn was washed ashore. Then, visit the famous Weta Cave, where you can see life-size sculptures of Lord of the Rings characters, prop replicas, and a mini museum. See the Windows into Workshop exhibition and get a unique behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of Weta Workshop, where many of the props for the movies were made.
4-star hotel in Wellington

Day 6
Today, you’re free to explore New Zealand’s capital city. Known as the world’s “coolest little capital,” Wellington is full of creativity and is known for its fabulous farm-to-table food. Visit the Te Papa National Museum, an innovative and interactive museum located on Wellington’s spectacular waterfront. If you wish, we can arrange a private tour for you. Or, take a nighttime tour of Zealandia, a nature sanctuary that has been carefully restored to the way New Zealand looked thousands of years ago.
4-star hotel in Wellington

Day 7
Enjoy a private transfer to the airport and take a short flight to Auckland, where you’ll pick up your rental car and head to Rotorua. Your hotel is in a beautiful garden setting, yet close to the city center—the perfect base for exploring Rotorua’s incredible natural attractions. Rejuvenate in the spa’s geothermal mineral pools and rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

Day 8
Did you know there are approximately 6 sheep for every person in New Zealand? Learn more about New Zealand’s agricultural traditions today at the Agrodome. See sheep shearing, sheepdog demonstrations, cow milking, lamb bottle feeding, and an exciting sheep auction at this award-winning show. Enjoy some free time in the afternoon; this evening, you’ll be treated to a fascinating Maori cultural experience in the Tamaki Maori Village. Let imagination take over as a chief is selected, a song is learnt, and the eerie cry of the welcome is heard before you enter the world of the proud warriors of the ancient Maori. Experience the Powhiri (Welcome Ceremony), then enter the village to hear traditional Maori instruments and watch the daily activities of days gone by. In the wharenui (meeting house), a Rangiatea culture group offers a powerful display of haka song and dance. Finally, dine on a traditional hangi feast, where the food is cooked slowly beneath the ground in earth ovens.
Novotel Rotorua Lakeside

Day 9
Today, drive to Matamata for a fantastic tour of the Hobbiton Movie Set. Your tour starts with a drive through the picturesque 1,250-acre sheep farm with spectacular views across to the Kaimai Ranges. Your guide will escort you through the 10-acre set of the Shire, recounting fascinating details of how the Hobbiton Movie Set was created. See how this beautiful piece of Waikato farmland was transformed into The Shire from Middle Earth, complete with unique Hobbit holes, The Green Dragon Inn, The Mill, and more. After your tour, enjoy specially brewed beverages at The Green Dragon Inn. When you’ve had your fill, drive to Auckland and spend the night in a luxury hotel, overlooking the sparkling Waitemata Harbour and the Viaduct Basin.
Heritage Auckland

Day 10
It’s time to say goodbye to New Zealand and its beautiful Middle Earth scenery. Make your way to the airport, where you’ll drop off your rental car and catch your flight back home.

Pricing & Departures

Choose your travel dates starting from $2,149 USD

This package can be modified to add additional cities and travel dates. Call a Travel Team Agent for details 1-800-788-0829

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak with one of our travel experts.

Notes:

Land only package, ask a travel team agent to add airfare
Prices in US dollars unless otherwise noted
We have limited space on this package and it is subject to availability and prior sale
All package prices are per person based on double occupancy unless otherwise noted
Prices reflect cash discount
Due to constantly changing policies to baggage restrictions, please check with your airline directly for latest updates and restrictions
Information, including prices are subject to change without notice
Restrictions and change and/or cancel penalties apply
UBI-600-307-872-WA

Similarities & Differences between Australia & New Zealand

Posted 03.13.19 by Travel Team

Similarities & Differences between Australia & New Zealand

People often ask what is the same or what is different between the two countries. There are many similarities as well as differences between Australia & New Zealand. Read on to learn more…

Similarities

Both countries were colonies of Great Britain at one time.

Both are English speaking

In both, cars are driven on the left

Both are island nations located in the South Pacific.

Many Australians live in New Zealand, and vice versa.

Both countries take a strong interest in Rugby, cricket and soccer.

Common foods for lamb and potatoes.

Both countries have a large Chinese population that migrated.

Need help planning your trip? Contact a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for more information!

Differences

Australia has endless deserts and sandy beaches,

While New Zealand is known for mountains, green landscape and lakes

. Australia was settled as a place for convicts to live (aside from the fact the indigenous people were already there for thousands of years)

. New Zealand was founded to spread the religious ideals of Britain.

New Zealand was inhabited by the Maori people who came from Eastern Polynesia.

There are more people in Australia than in New Zealand (25 million vs 5 million)

. Australia has a higher GDP than New Zealand

Weather in Australia can be more extreme than in New Zealand

. Australia is the size of the continental US and New Zealand the size of California. (7.600.000 SQ Kilometers vs 268,000 SQ Kilometers)

Check out our most popular vacations that include both Australia & New Zealand!

Australia & New Zealand in 19 days from $3,599

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Ready to plan your dream vacation?

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Biggest Travel Mistake When Booking Travel to Australia

Posted 03.11.19 by Travel Team

Biggest Travel Mistake When Booking travel to australia

The #1 biggest mistake we see often is when travelers have already booked or purchased a portion of their trip or ticket based on price, before speaking with a Travel Team Agent. Travelers may often book what they see as the cheapest fare, before speaking to a travel team specialist. Nearly every day we receive calls from passengers who have purchased the cheapest air ticket to their destination or cruise before discussing the entire trip with an agent. Travelers are often amazed when they discover the amount of money they could have saved by having a Travel Team Agent use tools such as open jaws and air passes to plan a better vacation that saves money. Travel Team Agents know ways to make your trip truly amazing!

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Australia & New Zealand in 19 days from $3,899

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sydney-outback-uluru-qantas-australia-ayers-rock-olgas

Example 1: A passenger goes online and purchases the lowest priced ticket they to Australia. They then want to add on flights to other destinations within Australia (Barrier Reef, Uluru, Ayers Rock, Alice Springs etc.) and/or New Zealand. They find that that air prices with Australia and New Zealand can be quite expensive if not purchased in conjunction with their international fights. Instead of purchasing an air pass and using some of the tricks a Travel Team agent can use, they spend hundreds, sometimes a thousand dollars more than needed. The same also applies to using mileage before talking to a Travel Team agent about their entire trip. Using mileage sometimes saves very little when compared to using a Travel Team air pass. Don’t waste your miles!

Contact a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for the best rates and to plan your dream vacation!

Example 2: A passenger purchases a cruise directly from the cruise line. (You never will get the lowest cruise price by booking directly with the cruise line. (unless you are an employee of the cruise line booking yourself)

We can always match the lowest cruise price you have found and still put it into travel package that will include your airfare, hotels and tours AND SAVE YOU MONEY!!!

A Travel Team Agent can book the cruise and also the very lowest airfare in addition to pre and post cruise tours. The entire vacation can be put into a neat package that will save you money.

***Travel Team prices are always lower than booking directly with a cruise line!***

Contact a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for the best rates and to plan your dream vacation!

That seemingly ‘cheap’ ticket can end up costing you extra money. The best way to save money and hassle is by speaking to a travel team agent before you book your flights.

Travel Team Agents can help save you money and alleviate baggage hassles. When you contact a Travel Team Agent, we explore all options to get you the best rates.

Avoid the hassle, Contact a travel team agent today at 1-800-788-0829, and let us help you plan that trip you have been talking about.

Ready to plan your dream vacation?

Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829

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10 of the Best Things to Do in Auckland

Posted 03.08.19 by Travel Team

10 of the Best Things to Do in Auckland

New Zealand is full of adventure and Auckland is one of the best cities to experience it. Full of museums, landscapes and iconic attractions, there is something for everyone.

Check out our most popular vacations that include both Australia & New Zealand!

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14 Best of Australia & New Zealand from $2,899

1 Visit Rangitoto Island

Located off the coast of Auckland, Rangitoto Island is a volcanic island that has amazing hiking trails and spectacular views. Explore the trails, hike thru lava fields and more. Take a lunch and have a picnic as you take in the stunning views.

2 Mount Eden

You can’t miss Mount Eden if you visit Auckland, it is one of the top attractions. It is a dormant volcano that is covered in grass with some of the best views in Auckland. You will see some of the best sunsets and sunrises, experience hiking and more.

Need help planning your trip? Contact a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for more information!

3 Waitareke Ranges Regional Park

Located along the North Island’s west coast, Waitakere Ranges Regional Park has over 40,000 acres of forest and beaches. Waitakere Ranges has hiking, biking, bird watching and more!

4 Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo caves are world-famous, located about 120 miles South of Auckland. You will see thousands of glowworms illuminating the cave ceiling and these glowworms are only found in New Zealand!

Need help planning your trip? Contact a Travel Team Agent today at 1-800-788-0829 for more information!

5 Waiheke Island

Waiheke Island features several vineyards, olive groves, white sand beaches, shops and restaurants. Try zip-lining for some adventure. You will find some of the best wine areas here as well.

6 Auckland Zoo

The Auckland Zoo is 4 miles southwest of downtown Auckland and is one of the best attractions to see animals. You will find the largest number of exotic and native animals in New Zealand with everything from fur seals to brown kiwis.

7 Viaduct Harbor

Viaduct Harbor has some of the best restaurants and bars. There are more than 30 eateries, plus a marina that you can visit. If you love boating you will love it here as you check out the luxury yachts and more.

8 Devonport

Devonport is a suburb of Auckland with spectacular views of the city. There are many places to dine and shop, as well as a naval base. Stroll along the peaceful beaches, take in the scenery and much more.

9 Hobbiton Movie Set

If you are Lord of The Rings Fan, you must visit Hobbiton. This is the only movie set left from the film and it is a big tourist attraction. You will feel as if you are in the movie.

10 Skytower

This is the most noticeable building in Auckland. Enjoy 360 degree views of the city, try one of the many restaurants and even bungee jump off the 53^rd floor!

Ready to plan your dream vacation?

Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829

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Custom Packages & Tours to Fiji

Posted 03.05.19 by Travel Team

WHAT’S INCLUDED

Your choice of islands
Your choice of travel dates
Your choice of resorts
No stress; we put it all together for you and save you money!
Perfectly planned and at the lowest rates!

CONCIERGE-STYLE SERVICE AT NO EXTRA CHARGE

Travel Team agents have been planning independent vacations for the past 36 Years with literally thousands of extremely satisfied customers. Tailor-made itineraries are our specialty.

Start with a few nights in a small boutique hotel on Viti Levu or go directly to a fabulous outer islands resort..
Add a couple days at another resort.
Choose transportation between the islands via helicopter, seaplane or speed boat.
All pre-arranged at the very best price.
We will build a customized package based on exactly what you’d like to experience!
Perfectly planned and at the lowest rates!

TRIP COMPONENTS

1. Getting There
The Travel Team offers very competitive airfares on Qantas, Air New Zealand, United, Fiji Air, Tahiti Nui and 11 other airlines. If you have already purchased air tickets to the South Pacific – no problem! Go to the next step…

2. Accommodations
There are many choices when it comes to accommodations in Fiji and Tahiti: standard motels to luxury resorts to bed and breakfast inns. Your Travel Team agent has access to the best rates, giving you thousands of choices. We only rely on hotel reviews from our own clients, not from third-party web sites.

3. Getting Around
Fiji and Tahiti have several different options for inter island travel. Your Travel Team agent can arrange for seaplane, helicopter or speed boat transportation between the resorts and the airports.

4. Local Tours
We have great contacts for dozens of different sightseeing and activity options from half-day sightseeing tours to multi-day treks, and from hot-air ballooning to kayaking day trips. Why travel on a 44-passenger bus tour when there is an excellent private minivan tour for the same price? Your Travel Team agent knows the best sightseeing tours as well as fun activities to fit your interests and budget for Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand, Australia and more!

Or, call 1.800.788.0829 to speak directly with one of our travel experts and start planning your dream vacation or honeymoon today.

15 Interesting Facts About New Zealand

Posted 03.01.19 by Travel Team

15 Interesting Facts About New Zealand

New Zealand is a beautiful, must-visit country. This quirky little country is full of wonder, beauty, adventure and more. Here are 15 interesting facts about New Zealand…

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14 Day Best of Australia & New Zealand from $2,899

Australia & New Zealand in 18 days from $3,599

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1 The first bungee jump took place in 1988 off the Kawarau Bridge in Queenstown.

2 People in New Zealand love cars! New Zealand has the highest car ownership rate in the world with 2.5 million cars for 4 million people!

3 New Zealand is the size of Japan and has a population of over 4 million people. It is one of the world’s least populated countries.

4 New Zealand was the first country to give women the right to vote in 1893.

5 The first person to climb Mount Everest in 1953 by Sir Edmond Hillary, who was from New Zealand.

6 The first person in the world to split an atom was a New Zealander by the name of Baron Ernest Rutherford.

Contact a Travel Team Agent for more information or to plan your trip at 1-800-788-0829

7 New Zealand has more golf courses per capita of population than any country in the world!

8 Auckland has the largest number of boats per capita than any country in the world.

9 New Zealand has won more Olympic gold medals per capita than any other country in the world.

10 The Hector’s Dolphin is the world’s smallest dolphin with a max length of 1.5 meters and is only found in New Zealand.

11 The Kakapo is the world’s only flightless parrot and who finds it home in New Zealand.

Contact a Travel Team Agent for more information or to plan your trip at 1-800-788-0829

12 For every person that lives in New Zealand, dairy farmers make a whopping 100kg of butter and 65kg of cheese is produced every year!

13 The most popular New Zealand films include ‘Once were Warriors’, ‘The Whale Rider’, ‘The Piano’ and the ‘Lord of the Rings’ trilogy.

14 There are also no nuclear power stations in New Zealand.

15 There are NO SNAKES in NEW ZEALAND!

When you book your vacation with a designer vacation planner like our travel team agents, you will save time, money and our agents do all the planning for you to make your vacation truly the trip of a lifetime!

Ready to plan your dream vacation?

Contact a Travel Team Agent at 1-800-788-0829

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Fiji General Information

Posted 03.01.19 by Travel Team

Fiji General Information

Fiji Weather and Climate Chart (Avg temps and rainfall)

NADI	Av Max C	Av Min C	Rainfall mm	Rain Days >0.1mm
January	31.6	22.6	291	18
February	31.5	23.0	302	18
March	31.1	22.6	324	19
April	30.6	21.8	163	11
May	29.8	20.1	77	7
June	29.2	19.3	62	6
July	28.5	18.3	46	5
August	28.7	18.4	59	5
September	29.4	19.3	77	6
October	30.2	20.4	102	9
November	30.9	21.5	138	11
December	31.4	22.1	159	13

What Happens When Your Plans Change Due to a Weather Event While Traveling in Australia or New Zealand?

Posted 02.26.19 by Travel Team

What Happens When Your Plans Change Due to a Weather Event While Traveling in Australia or New Zealand?

Nothing can disrupt your dream vacation like unforeseen weather events that can cause your plans to change. There have been instance when travelers on vacation in Australia or New Zealand have experienced a storm, landslide or other weather event that impacts their plans. What happens when travel plans are cancelled and/or have to be changed?

Check out our most popular vacations that include both Australia & New Zealand!

14 Day Best of Australia & New Zealand from $2,899

Australia & New Zealand in 19 days from $3,599

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If you booked your travel on your own, you may be scrambling and trying to rebook your hotels, planes and more. This can be stressful in a different country and you are left on your own to try to figure out for instance, where and how to find a different hotel, wonder if they have any rooms, or try to rebook a flight and have to pay out of pocket for extra expenses.

If you booked with Travel Team, never fear, we will always be here. If you are traveling and encounter an unforeseen weather event, your travel team agent will immediately find those travelers affected and rebook their travel plans.

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An Aussie Dictionary to Common Aussie terms

Posted 02.22.19 by Travel Team

An Aussie Dictionary to Common Aussie terms

Australian English is full of slang. Many of the slang terms are words that are derived from the languages of the Aboriginal tribes. When you visit Australia you are bound to encounter some of this slang and other words. Here is a short guide or ‘dictionary’ of sorts to help you along your stay.

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ace: Excellent

ankle–biter: a small child

apples: means everything is under control ‘it’s apples’.

arvo: Afternoon

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barbie: Barbecue

barney: argument or dispute

bell: To call someone on the telephone

billabing: a water hole in a dry river bed

bickie: a cookie

bloke: A male

brolly: An umbrella

bushed: Tired

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cactus: Broken, useless

chewy: Chewing gum

cobber: A close friend

come a cropper: To fall heavily, have an accident

crikey: An expression of surprise

dag: A nerd

dead–set: Absolute, genuine

dingo: A native dog

drongo: A moron or fool

enzed: New Zealand

esky: Brand name but used now for a genric cooler to carry food & drink to parties

fang: Drive around at high speed

flat out: Very busy

footy: Rugby Leaugue, Rugby Union or Australian Rules football

frog & toad: A rhyming slang for road

garbo: Garbage man

goodo: Good one

grouse: Very good

grog: General name for alcohol

heaps, to give: Giving someone a hard time

hooray: Goodbye or so long

iceberger: someone who swims in unheated water during winter

joey: A baby kangaroo or wallaby

jumper: A sweater

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kanga: Kangaroo, or to have some cash

knock, to: To criticize or find fault

kick in: To help out with money

lash out, to : Spend money freely

legless: Someone who is so intoxicated they can’t walk

lolly: Candy or boiled sweet

loo: toilet or bathroom

marge: Margarine

mate: Friend or buddy

missus: Wife

mozzie: Mosquito

mug: A fool

nana: Mentally deranged or to lose your temper

neck oil: Common term for beer

nick, to: Steal

nong: A silly person or fool

old man: A full grown kangaroo

onya: Congratulations

Oz: Australia

paralytic: very intoxicated

petrol: Gasoline

pokies: Slot machines, poker or can mean one-armed bandits

pollie: Politician

rager: Someone who likes to party

ratbag: A troublemaker

ratty: Mad or deranged

ripper: Someone or something really good

sanger: Sandwich

scorcher: A very hot day

sheila: A young girl or woman

smoko: A break from work

strides: Men’s trousers

ta: Thank you

Tassie: Tasmania

Tinnie: A can of beer

Toot: Toilet

uni: University

ute: Utility truck or pickup truck

walkabout: To wander the countryside.

westie: Someone who is a resident of Sydney’s western suburbs

wowser: Someone who is a bit of prude

yakka: Hard-work

yarn: To tell a tall tale, or to talk or chat

zonked: tired or exhausted

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8 Amazing things to Do in Cairns

Posted 02.19.19 by Travel Team

8 Amazing things to Do in Cairns

What to do in Cains? Or more like ‘What isn’t there to do in Cairns?’. There is more than just the Great Barrier Reef to experience here. Read on for 8 amazing things to do in Cairns…

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1 Swim at the Cairns Esplanade lagoon.

A great feature of Tropical North Queensland towns are these man-made pools by the beach.

The main beach in Cairns is more of a mud flat. So the man-made Cairns lagoon gives you crystal clear waters, beach views and life guards. The Cairns Esplanade lagoon is a cool place to laze around, read your book and meet other travelers.

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2 Visit Rusty’s Farmers Market

One of the cheapest farmer’s markets in Australia. Get there on Sundays around 2pm just before closing time when prices go down.

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3 Explore The Great Barrier Reef

Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef, which stretches a whopping 2,300km long. This is one of the main reasons to visit Cairns. The Great Barrier Reef is magnificent and magical. If you like diving or snorkeling visit the Outer Reef where the best places to dive and snorkel is.

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4 Go jungle surfing at Cape Tribulation

You’ll get to zipline through the Daintree Rainforst at heights of up to 20 metres above the ground.

5 Visit Tjapukai Aboriginal Park

Located 15 minutes from Cairns, Tjapukai (pronounced with a silent T) is an aboriginal cultural site where you can learn about a 40,000 year old culture. You’ll also get to channel your inner tribesman and throw real boomerangs and spears!

6 Cairns Botanical Gardens

The Botanical Gardens are considered to have one of Australia’s best exhibitions of tropical plants, and the plant life here is very different from what you may have seen in botanic gardens at cooler climates.

7 Visit Kuranda

Just a 35 minute drive from Cairns, Kuranda is a cool hippie town that will take a day to explore. You can see rain forests, animal sanctuaries and more.

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8 Take the Kuranda Scenic Railway

The Kuranda scenic railway is a one-of-a-kind railway experience stretching through a rainforest surrounded by waterfalls, gorges and lush vegetation. The railway is the natural choice to exit Kuranda on a 328 metre high journey over the rainforest.

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How to Spend 48 hours in Sydney

Posted 02.13.19 by Travel Team

How to Spend 48 hours in Sydney

Sydney is a city that deserves time to explore. Sometimes, travelers are visiting multiple cities in one trip, so if you only have 48 hours in Sydney, what should you do?

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Day 1:

Visit the Circular Quay in the morning. This is the main transport hub of Sydney Harbour and you will find the 2 most famous landmarks, the Sydney Opera House and the Sydney Harbour Bridge. You will also find many outdoor cafes, restaurants and don’t miss the Museum of Contemporary Art!

Next stop by the Royal Botanical Gardens, one of the most impressive gardens in the world. Have a picnic lunch in the garden, try a trendy café and enjoy the views. In the Afternoon walk across the Sydney Harbour Bridge. Explore the Rocks District where there is a story on every corner and browse the markets.

In the Evening watch the sunset over the harbor as you have dinner

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Day 2:

Rise early and head to Bondi Beach. Take the Bondi to Coogee Coastal Walk, which is free and takes about 2.5 hours. Grab some lunch before taking a ferry to Manly from Circular Quay. Experience stunning views of the Harbour. Next take a return ferry back to the Quay as you see the sunset behind the Harbour.

For dinner, visit Chinatown for family friendly and cheap eats, or try one the many restaurants.

There is so much to see & do in Sydney!

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Changes Coming to the New Zealand Border

Posted 01.29.19 by Travel Team

Changes coming to the New Zealand Border

There are two changes coming to New Zealand in 2019 that will affect visitors. Read how these new changes will affect your travel to New Zealand.

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1 Starting on October 1, 2019 travelers be required to hold an Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter New Zealand. This is a new security feature that will speed up things at the border and will cost between $9.00 and $12.50 NZD.

2 A $35.00 fee for International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy will be introduced to visitors to help conserve the natural environment. This is payable on the application for a visa or ETA from July 1, 2019.

Don’t worry because your Travel Team agent for obtain both the NZ and AU ETAs for you, call a travel team agent at 1-800-788-0829

Important questions:

Do I need to do anything if I am arriving in New Zealand before July 1, 2019?

You do not need to make any changes if you are arriving in New Zealand before July 1, 2019.

If I am arriving in New Zealand after July 1, 2019 what do I need to do?

If you apply for a visa after July 1, 2019 you might be charged the IVL fee of $35.00 along with your application fee for the visa. If you have applied for a visa before July 1, 2019 the IVL is not payable, even if you are arriving after July 1, 2019.

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What do I need to do if I do not need a visa to travel to New Zealand before October 1, 2019 (visa-waiver citizen) and I am not Australian?

There are no changes to entry requirements prior to September 30, 2019. You are able to apply for an ETA before October 1. If you apply for an ETA you may be charged the IVL alongside your application fee (the application system will automatically check if you are liable or exempt).

What do I need to do if I do not need a visa to travel to New Zealand on or after October 1, 2019 (visa-waiver citizen) and I am not Australian?

You have to hold an ETA or you will not be able to board your aircraft or cruise vessel. When you apply for an ETA you may be charged the IVL alongside your application fee (the application system will automatically check if you are liable or exempt).

Don’t worry because your Travel Team agent for obtain both the NZ and AU ETAs for you, call a travel team agent at 1-800-788-0829

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New Zealand – Frequently Asked Questions

Posted 01.25.19 by Travel Team

New Zealand – Frequently Asked Questions

We often are asked questions about and New Zealand and if you are planning a trip to New Zealand, there are some things you should know. Read these frequently asked questions about New Zealand…

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How is the Climate & Weather in New Zealand?

Since New Zealand is in the Southern Hemisphere, the seasons are reversed to the seasons in the Northern Hemisphere. Spring is September – November; Summer is December – February; Fall is March – May and Winter is June – August.

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What Documents do I need to enter New Zealand

Any visitor that is traveling to New Zealand must have a passport valid for at least 3 months after the date you plan to leave the country. If you are staying in New Zealand less than 3 months, you do not need a visa. You also need to bring a return ticket to the country you are returning to, and also enough money during your stay (about $1000 NZD per month per person).

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Customs Procedures in New Zealand?

When you enter New Zealand, remember there are laws that prohibit entering the country with any drugs, firearms, weapons and certain protected wildlife. Make sure to declare anything to Customs when you arrive in New Zealand in case you are not sure about any of your items.

What should I pack?

You want to make sure to take the following items: Passport & Visa paperwork (if applicable), Photo ID, travel insurance, credit card, copies of your itinerary, ID and passport. Don’t forget sunglasses, sunscreen, light weight jacket, camera, sandals, dress shoes, long sleeve and short sleeve shirts.

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What is the Departure tax?

You will need to pay a departure tax at the airport when you leave New Zealand. The departure tax fee is $25 NZD and not included in your air ticket price.

What language is spoken in New Zealand

English is spoken throughout New Zealand. You also may hear other languages such as Maori which is the official language in New Zealand. You will hear the phrase ‘Kia Ora’ which means hello in Maori.

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What is the currency in New Zealand?

New Zealand uses New Zealand dollars. Coins are in values of 5, 10, 20, 50 cents. There isn’t a limit on money taken in or out but if it is more than $10,000 NZD you have to fill out a Border Cash Report.

What is the time difference between the US and New Zealand?

New Zealand is one of the first places in the world to see the new day, 17 hours ahead of EST or 20 hours ahead of PST. In summer New Zealand uses ‘daylight saving’, with clocks put forward one hour. Daylight saving begins on the first Sunday in October and ends on the third Sunday of the following March, when clocks are put back.

What are the Taxes in New Zealand?

All goods and services will have a 15% Goods and Services Tax (GST) included in the displayed price. Also, if a supplier ships a major purchase to a visitor’s home address the GST will not be charged.

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Do I need to tip in New Zealand?

Tipping is not expected in New Zealand in restaurants and bars. But if you received extra special service, you can feel free to tip. There are no service charges added to Hotels and restaurant bills.

How do I drive I New Zealand?

Drive on the left side of the road. The steering wheel is on the right side of the car. You must wear a seat belt at all times.

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6 Reasons to Visit the Great Barrier Reef

Posted 01.18.19 by Travel Team

6 Reasons to Visit the Great Barrier Reef

As if you needed reasons to visit this natural wonder, we went ahead and listed 6 reasons to visit the Great Barrier Reef. Aside from being absolutely gorgeous, there are so many things to see and do here. Here are 6 great reasons you should visit the Great Barrier Reef…

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It is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World

The reef, as one of the most spectacular visions of nature, joins the list along with Mount Everest, the Grand Canyon and Victoria Falls as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The reef is massive, covering an area roughly the size of Germany. It also is one of the most biodiverse environments on Earth. There are more fish species living in a two-acre area of the Great Barrier Reef than there are bird species in all of North America.

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World Class Scuba Diving and Snorkeling

The Great Barrier Reef has waters that are warm and tropical. Whether you choose to scuba dive or snorkel, you will be amazed by the dazzling colors of yellows, blues and more of the fish. Being able to view these underwater is one of the main draws to visit.

Marine Life

The great Barrier Reef is home to six of seven species of turtles that can be found in the ocean’s and seas. You might see them drift by you while you are snorkeling, or see them on the beach hatching. You will also see Dolphins, whales, manta rays and much more!

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Whitsunday Islands

The 74 Whitsunday Islands are located at the southern end of the reef, off the coast of the seaside town Airlie Beach and 1.5 hours’ flight north of Brisbane, Queensland. They are full of beautiful resorts with secluded beaches and friendly towns.

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Outdoor Activities

From Diving and snorkeling, to exploring by kayak, finding your own beach to relax on, there are no shortage of activities here.

Stargazing

The night sky in the Great Barrier Reef is some of the least polluted in the world by noise, light or by chemicals. The Great Barrier Reef is a great place to stargaze for this reason. For a truly memorable experience take out a sleeping bag, or ‘swag-bag’, and sleep under the stars.

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