NZ Herald - Plus Feature November 2023

A New Zealand Herald Comme ercial Publication | Thursday 23 November, 2023

THE TRAVEL ISSUE What’s your travel style? | Cruise holidays Safety and travel hacks | DIY vs agency

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inside Explore the world your way

4

Rivers to oceans: discovering cruises

7

Safety and travel tips for every adventurer

11

Nailing the perfect holiday

13

Exploring New Zealand: A road trip adventure

14

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Explore the world your way: solo, couple, or group tour Travelling alone, as a couple or in a group all have their pros and cons. Some people enjoy being lone wolves, whereas others are social butterflies and need people around them.

B

etween travelling solo and as a duo there may not be a choice. If you don’t have a partner, have one that doesn’t like to travel, or you can’t find a friend to team up with, you may need to travel alone.

In that situation some people will choose to join a tour. They prefer the company of a bigger group and not having to hustle every day to get places and book accommodation. But others would rather stay home than stick to an itinerary and be shepherded by tour guides.

Travelling alone has advantages and disadvantages Each travel style comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Travelling independently gives you: • Complete control over your itinerary. You can choose exactly what you want to do when you want to do it.

• The ability to meet and interact with locals and fellow travellers.

• Cost effectiveness. Overall self-booked travel can be cheaper than group travel where the operator.

• On the downside, travelling alone can be more difficult than waking up and going wherever the tour takes you. Some of those cons include: • Loneliness can be a real challenge for solo travellers, especially on longer journeys. It’s essential to be comfortable with your own company.

• Safety can be a concern, especially for solo female travellers. You must be cautious and aware of your surroundings.

• If something goes wrong, you don’t have anyone to rely on for immediate help or support.

Two people: more fun Travelling as a couple or with a friend can be easier. You get to share memories with someone else, have the security of a second person with you and can share costs. Hotel rooms are usually the same cost for one or two people. The ability to share decisions is a real bonus as well.

But the downside is that travelling with another person always means compromise.

Arguing with your significant other or friend can also be a problem. Sometimes we’re not used to being with the same person 24/7.

Travelling in a group also has pros and cons.

There is safety in numbers, much less planning to do, and a ready-made group to socialise with.

On the downside, group travel can be inflexible, and you may not get on with the other people.

A tour for everyone Heidi Walker, general manager of Flight Centre New Zealand says there are tours to suit a wide range of demographics and budgets and the different ways in which people like to travel.

“There really is a tour for everyone,” says Walker.

“A tour is a great option for those that want to cover a lot of ground and optimise their time in a destination. The advantage of going on a tour is that you have experts designing an itinerary for you where you get to see a large number of sights for great value for money.

There are tours more suited to certain age groups, ways Walker. For example, Contiki and TopDeck for younger travellers.

Walker says there are themed tours such as foodie tours, as well as even more niche tours.

“We had one customer go on a tour for the TV show Outlander,” she says.

When choosing the right tour for you, consider your interests, budget, and weigh up how much you want to book in advance or decide on the

ground, says Walker. “For those that don’t want a set itinerary or want more flexibility, they should choose a smaller tour with fewer people, as there’s more opportunity for movement. “ Tips from an experienced traveller Walker has a number of tips for people weighing up travelling independently versus taking a tour.

“Have an open mind, travelling with strangers can be daunting for some, especially as a solo traveller,” says Walker. “On the other hand, you will more than likely develop friendships with your tour group as you share magical travel experiences together.”

On a tour you will be on the go. It’s more of an adventure than a sit back and relax holiday at the beach. “Because of this a lot of people can finish a tour needing a holiday,” says Walker.

“So, booking a few nights after the tour at a location where you can rest and relax is a very good idea, maybe as a stopover on the way home.”

A big pro for going on a tour is the safety net.

“When visiting a region for the first time where English is not the first language and it’s a cultural experience, having a local guide who knows the safe spaces, hidden gems and what places to avoid can be extremely helpful,” she says. “Also having local drivers that know the local roads and road rules takes a lot of pressure off you.” Being on a tour also means you can avoid running the gauntlet of taxis and Ubers.

Tours often appeal to solo travellers, who don’t really want to be alone. But usually there is a single supplement charge if you want a room on your own. This can add a lot of cost to the trip.

But there are ways around the single supplement.

“If travelling solo, a lot of tour companies have the option of bunking with someone else,” says Walker. “This means you don’t have to pay extra to have a room to yourself, and it is also a good opportunity to make friends. A lot of the adventure tours have single people so you’re travelling with like-minded people who will be looking to make connections as well.”

Taking away the headaches Globus brands head of marketing Australasia, Chris Fundell says group travel is becoming

ABOVE: Heidi Walker. Photo/Supplied

ABOVE: Chris Fundell. Photo/Supplied increasingly popular with solo travellers. It takes some of the headaches away.

But he says being solo does make planning the holiday a little more difficult as well as the extra cost of paying single supplements to have your own room. Some tours are designed for solo travellers, Fundell says. And some have sales from time to time where the single supplement is reduced.

For example, says Fundell, one of the Globus brands Avalon has waived the single supplement on a first-come, first-served basis on a selection of 2024 Europe and Asia river cruises.

Another of its brands Cosmos is waiving the single supplement, on a first-come, first-served basis, on select North America and Europe tours, with five “no single supplement” spaces set aside for each departure. That would save around $580 per person.

“Among the benefits of group touring include having the hassle taken out of the planning, ensuring local experiences are front of mind to make it easier for every type of traveller, whoever they are travelling with.”

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| 7

Rivers to oceans: discovering cruises

Photo/GettyImages

Cruises are floating playgrounds for adults and children alike, offering a unique blend of relaxation, adventure, and entertainment.

C

ruises aren’t all the same. They come in a wide variety of styles and prices. And they’re convenient because you keep your cabin for the entirety of the journey and many cruises are all inclusive so you don’t have to pay extra for meals, drinks, and onboat entertainment.

“First time cruisers love the fact that they unpack once, travel in luxury and visit bucket list destinations all in one trip, ticking off multiple countries but also seeking out hidden gems along some of the world’s most mesmerising waterways,” says Chris Fundell, head of marketing Australasia, for the Globus travel brands,

Choosing a very first cruise is both exciting and daunting. That’s because there is so much choice. Those on offer include: • Luxury cruises with high-end dining, lavish accommodation, and white-glove service.

These are favoured by honeymooners and those looking to splurge.

• Family cruises packed with activities and offering child-friendly amenities such as water parks and supervised programmes.

• Adventure cruises that offer excursions such as rock climbing, ziplining, hiking, diving and more.

• Cultural cruises, which emphasise local culture and history, with stops at ports

known for heritage and traditions.

• River cruises for exploring smaller, picturesque towns and cities along the world’s waterways. The pace is slower, but the experience is rich in charm.

• Budget cruises for maximising value without breaking the bank. They have more basic accommodation and fewer frills.

Beyond choosing a cruise style, there is a wide array of vessels and companies to choose between. There are big vessels, small vessels and different cruise companies.

Researching for a cruise holiday can be daunting, says Michael Middleton, general manager at My Cruises. If you’ve never booked a cruise , it can be a good idea to use an experienced booking agency to help choose the most appropriate cruise line and destination.

“There are so many cruise lines and itineraries to choose from that it can be hard

to know where to start,” says Middleton. “ Rather than overwhelming yourself, reach out to a travel agent who specialises in cruise holidays. Not only can they help you choose the right destination and cruise line for your holiday needs, but also the specific ship and cabin type,” says Middleton.

Cruise holidays aren’t all expensive.

In fact they can be the perfect choice for those wanting to travel on a budget, with accommodation, meals, transport and entertainment all included in the upfront price, says Middleton. “Plus, some cruise lines also include add-ons, such as tips, beverages and shore excursions.”

Although popular destinations for cruising are often on the ocean and include the Mediterranean, North America, and even Antarctica, river cruising is becoming increasingly popular. Globus brands head of marketing Australasia, Chris Fundell says bookings for 2024 show that river cruising is

8|

becoming more popular than ever. Avalon Waterways, one of the Globus brands, has above target bookings for the next cruise season.

Fundell recommends river cruising as a great way to start cruising, in an intimate, relaxed, luxury environment. Avalon’s modern and best-in-class fleet of Suite Ships averages just 150 guests, some much less,

he says.

“Avalon Waterways offers as many as 28 included excursions on cruising itineraries and guests can choose from active, discovery and classic excursions to enjoy everything from hiking up to a castle one day, a painting class the next or a guided tour of the many beautiful towns we visit. For Avalon guests, we like to say it’s

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Fundell says Avalon’s taster cruises are also perfect for those short on time or looking to dip their toes into the world of solo travel for the first time, with all itineraries eight days or less that still tick off bucket list experiences and offer an elevated cruising experience along the way.

INSET TOP: Chris Fundell. INSET BOTTOM: Michael Middleton. Photo/Supplied

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| 11

Safety and travel tips for every adventurer

T

ravel tips abound. No matter what type of trip you’re planning, others have been there before you, and sometimes their advice is incredibly clever. It’s also worth digging deep into safety advice before going virtually anywhere.

Start by researching your destination.

Sometimes a good old-fashioned travel guide can be a great place to start. Get one from your local library or even Op Shop. The general advice will be very helpful, even if prices and accommodation are out of date.

You can always research accommodation options online or ask your travel agent for advice.

Once you have a general idea of your travel plans, it’s worth checking out relevant videos on YouTube. You can find everything on YouTube from packing hacks to the best itineraries for virtually every destination known to man, and woman. It’s true that people can waste a lot of time doing this, but YouTube is the source of some very good travel tips as well.

Also join social media groups where people congregate to discuss certain destinations or styles of travel. For example, groups such as Discover Italy and Vietnam Travelers [sic] on

Facebook are packed full of tips. Likewise, there are groups for backpacking, cycle touring, campervan holidays, and cruises.

Consider going to a travel agent for more tips and ideas. Most agents have travelled extensively and have a lot of knowledge.

Their tips can be invaluable.

Some general travel and safety tips include: • Stay aware: be vigilant and aware of your surroundings. Keep an eye on your belongings, and be cautious in crowded or touristy areas.

• Save emergency contacts: carry a list of emergency contacts, including the phone number for the New Zealand embassy or consulate, your insurance company, and a trusted friend or family member.

• Take health precautions: check if vaccinations or prophylaxis are required for your destination. Carry essential medications, sun lotion, insect repellant, and a basic first-aid kit.

• Travel light: Pack only what you need, as carrying excessive luggage can be a safety hazard and a hassle.

• Be careful when withdrawing cash. Try to use ATMs inside bank buildings. If someone

tells you an ATM isn’t working and directs you to another one, avoid using it, in case it is compromised.

• Be alert in taxis. Ensure that the meter is working or agree on a price. Sometimes ride-share apps such as Uber can be safer because it’s harder for the drivers to rip you off.

• Download offline maps. Both Google and Apple maps can be downloaded before you go. That means you can access them whether or not you have internet access.

• Beware of overly friendly locals.

Unfortunately, while most people are genuine and honest, those that want to rip you off may try to befriend you.

• Research common scams. Google the common scams in the destination you’re travelling to so that you can steer clear of them.

• Beware of using Wi-Fi, especially to do banking. It’s best to buy a travel SIM card for the location you’re visiting because data is more secure than Wi-Fi. It is also a good idea to use a virtual private network [VPN] while travelling for additional security.

• Set up Find My Phone on Google or Apple

so that you can track down your phone should you lose it on holiday.

• Trust your gut. If you’re feeling uncomfortable, walk away from whatever the problem is.

Always take out travel insurance, even for Australia and the United Kingdom. Don’t just take it out. Read the policy wording carefully.

Some policies, for example, won’t cover you for riding a moped overseas, which is common in South East Asia. Or they may not cover adventure sports. It’s best to know in advance what you’re covered for and what’s excluded.

If you’re using credit card insurance, make sure you’ve activated the cover. Usually this means you’ve bought your tickets using your credit card.

More and more domestic travel insurance policies are available in New Zealand from AA Insurance, TOWER and others. They’re relatively cheap and cover the cost of lost flight and accommodation bookings.

If you’re travelling overseas, always check the government’s SafeTravel.govt.nz website.

If you don’t, and you travel to a country listed as unsafe, your insurance is unlikely to pay out in the event of a claim.

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| 13

Photo/GettyImages

Nailing the perfect holiday: travel agency or DIY booking? years highlighted the benefits of using a travel agent. “As we have learnt over these past three years with travel restrictions and no-fly zones, travel can be complex and ever-changing. Travel agents can be a vital lifeline in situations where things change or go awry while you are on your trip. As the saying goes: ‘Without a travel agent, you’re on your own’.”

Planning your next big holiday? Is it best to entrust the task to a travel agent, or take the DIY route?

I

ncreasingly New Zealanders are happy to book their own travel via local and international travel websites. That can save money. But it can also be risky.

Sometimes flights and holidays booked through big travel websites can save money. But in the post-Covid world DIY booking sometimes comes with risks that many don’t think about.

People are human and make mistakes such as booking the wrong day or even the wrong destination. Overseas websites are often not covered by New Zealand law, and more than a few travellers have lost their money with no recourse.

With the big international travel booking websites such as Expedia and others it can be almost impossible to contact a human being when something goes wrong. Some travellers have even had to resort to going on Fair Go to attempt to get a refund.

On the other hand, if a local agent has been involved in the booking, they can go into bat for you if things go wrong.

Benefits of using a human travel agent There are other benefits of using a human travel agent. They are trained and have indepth knowledge of destinations, airlines, accommodation, and tours, says Victoria Courtney, managing director of Flight Centre

Travel Group New Zealand.

Courtney says 70 percent of Flight Centre’s customers still opt to book in person, rather than through the company’s website. “Many still crave personalisation when it comes to booking travel.

Our travel experts are passionate about travel and enjoy being part of the booking experience.”

Courtney compares the creation of a holiday to designing a new kitchen. Anyone can create a kitchen design, but many will do it badly and cost overruns are rife. “We take into account individual budgets and preferences, and we can mix and match different add-ons and experiences to make your holiday perfect.”

It’s a prerequisite for travel agents to be welltravelled themselves. “We can teach our people how to book travel, but we can’t teach them how to love travel. So, you have to arrive with that already under your belt,” says Courtney. “Our team is passionate about travel and provides advice based on lived experiences.”

Agents also have relationships with travel providers in New Zealand and overseas. “These relationships are key to ensuring we’re across the latest and greatest in tours, accommodation, airline offerings and more,” she adds.

“Our people regularly enhance their travel expertise by attending conferences, training sessions and travelling first hand to learn about

ABOVE: Victoria Courtney. Photo/Supplied each experience. So, when a customer describes what they are looking for from their holiday, they will always have a great recommendation.”

A real live travel agent can advise on whether it’s best to book now, or wait for lower prices.

They can also identify peak times such as school holidays in other countries and help clients work an itinerary around that.

Beyond the booking process, travel agents are there to hold their customer’s hand throughout the entire journey. In the unpredictable world of travel, having a reliable safety net of a travel agency is priceless.

Michael Middleton, general manager at My Cruises, a cruise booking agency, says the Covid

When to book online There are times when booking online can be the smarter option, says Courtney. “When booking a simple holiday package or flight, our website is a great place to start.”

Even if booking online, Kiwis should choose websites that are covered by New Zealand law.

That includes Flightcentre.co.nz and others such as Helloworld, House of Travel (Mixandmatch. co.nz), Flight Centre, Jettzy, or Webjet that specifically mention that their terms and conditions are governed by New Zealand law. Or book directly with the airline.

That’s not always the case with overseas websites such as Expedia, Kiwi.com [which is based in the Czech Republic despite its name] and Trip.com.

The other downside of the international websites is that some of the cheaper comparison sites offer flights that involve separate ticketing for each leg of the journey. If you miss a connecting flight, you could be in trouble because the next airline is not required to accommodate you if you miss the connection.

14 |

Photo/GettyImages

Exploring New Zealand: A Road Trip Adventure

By Kelly Spice

N

ew Zealand is a dream destination for travellers worldwide. Often it can take Kiwis many years and many overseas trips before we start really exploring our own beautiful backyard.

For those seeking a more leisurely pace and the freedom to explore at their own rhythm, a road trip through the Kiwi countryside in a motorhome or caravan is an ideal way to experience the magic of Aotearoa. Both the North and South islands offer a journey that promises both tranquillity and adventure for the mature traveller.

The Comforts of a Home on Wheels Embarking on a road trip combines comfort and exploration when you opt for a motorhome or caravan adventure. The convenience of having your accommodation on wheels means you can tailor your itinerary to suit your pace, allowing for spontaneous detours and extended stops in places that you love. Providing the creature comforts of home, with fully

equipped kitchens, cosy bedrooms, and the convenience of on-the-go bathrooms makes a motorhome or caravan journey one to envy.

North Island Wonders If you begin your road trip adventure in the North Island, you’ll discover geothermal wonders and cultural treasures. No visit to Auckland, would be complete without ascending the iconic Sky Tower. From there, take your time to meander through the lush landscapes of the Waikato region, stopping in Hobbiton for a dose of Middle-earth magic.

As you head towards Rotorua, be prepared to be mesmerised by the geothermal wonders, from bubbling mud pools to erupting geysers. The thermal baths provide a perfect opportunity to relax and rejuvenate, a welcome respite from the road.

Continuing south, Wellington beckons with its artsy vibe and picturesque harbour.

Take a stroll through Te Papa Tongarewa Museum and relish the diverse culinary scene before boarding the car ferry to cross Cook Strait and head to the South Island.

South Island Spectacles The South Island unfolds like a living canvas, with each turn of the road revealing jawdropping landscapes. Picton, your gateway to the South Island, welcomes you with its stunning Marlborough Sounds. Cruise through the fjord-like waterways, where the interplay of sea and land creates a serene backdrop.

As you wind your way down the coast, make sure to traverse the spectacular Abel Tasman National Park. With its golden beaches and lush forests, this coastal gem is a haven for nature lovers. Consider a leisurely hike or a scenic boat cruise to fully appreciate the park’s natural beauty.

Continue your journey south to the West Coast, where the Franz Josef and Fox Glaciers await. For the more adventurous, a helicopter ride over the glaciers offers a bird’s-eye view of the icy expanse.

Alternatively, ground-based explorers can take a guided walk to witness the glaciers’ majesty up close.

Queenstown, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, is an idyllic spot to rest and recharge. Engage in a bit of thrill-seeking

with a bungee jump or jet boat ride, or simply revel in the beauty of the stunning surroundings.

Road Trip Tips For those embracing the road trip spirit, a few practical tips can enhance the overall experience.

• Plan your driving routes with breaks in mind, allowing ample time to rest and appreciate the scenery.

• Caravan parks and campgrounds are scattered throughout both islands, offering a range of facilities from basic amenities to fully equipped sites. Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your ideal spots.

• Pack light. You’ll find laundromat services in most places you stop, so you don’t need to cart your entire wardrobe on tour!

With the freedom to travel at your own pace and the comfort of a home on wheels, you can savour every moment of this enchanting adventure in Aotearoa. So, pack your bags, hit the open road, and let the beauty of New Zealand unfold before you, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Matamata

There’s only one chance to secure a first release home, and it’s right now!

Sanderson Group is excited to announce the very first luxury retirement homes at Matamata Country Club are officially available for the fortunate few to make their own. This initial release includes arguably the village’s most prestigious and centrally located homes, and presents the first opportunity for future residents to reserve one of the village’s most premium sites.

To secure your pick from the ‘cream of the crop’ we highly recommend you make contact immediately - interest in Matamata Country Club has been overwhelming and these first sites won’t last long.

Book your appointment with Sandy Turner 027 301 3126 | sales@matamatacountryclub.co.nz Sales office open Monday–Friday, 10am–2pm | 102 Peria Road, Matamata, Waikato matamatacountryclub.co.nz

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