The word ‘shipwreck’ invites all kinds of dramatic visions – of raging storms and castaways, deserted tropical islands, and romantic rescues by courageous strapping young sailors. But at Greenpoint Reserve it’s another story. Here you’ll find a ship graveyard – boats were intentionally scuttled here and left to rot. It’s a short, easy walk with lots of birds to see too!
The girl emerged out of the darkness, clad in a bright orange 80’s style evening gown complete with puffy sleeves and long white gloves. She looked around nervously, and I gasped as I heard the opening piano notes. No, it couldn’t be. She raised the microphone and began to sing in a strong Spanish accent. “At first I was afraid, I was petrified….” It was, and I couldn’t stop laughing. This was Cienfuegos, and this was not what I had expected.
Transportation in Cuba can be complicated. There are lots of different options with pros and cons in terms of cost, speed, comfort, and convenience, and it can be mind-boggling to think about! I’m going to give you a breakdown of each method of independent travel in Cuba so you can decide for yourself!
I huffed and puffed up the last few metres of the steep hill, turning my feet slightly sideways and tugging on tufts of grass to stabilize myself. Upon reaching the top I didn’t even pause to catch my breath. I stood in one spot, slowly turning in a circle, admiring the spectacular view of the countryside all around me.
As I stood on the edge of the canyon I knew: I could not leave yet. I wasn’t finished. This country had gotten under my skin and into my heart like few others, and I needed to stay longer. Even though it meant sacrificing a week in Russia, I had to stay. Because let’s face it, any country that can make me get up for sunrise must be pretty amazing! Click to see the pictures!
For most people, the Waiau Falls and Kauri Grove walks would be a quick pit stop on their way over the 309 road to the bigger attractions on the far side of the peninsula. But for me and my friends the beautiful waterfall and giant trees were more than a stop along the way; they were the destination.
It was a hot, sweaty affair, full of loud, throbbing rhythms and gyrating and twirling couples moving in perfect sync to the music. I was mesmerized by the seemingly choreographed maneuvers on the dance floor, marveling that they didn’t all bump into each other. I watched with my mouth wide open, stunned at the rhythm, coordination and beauty of what I was seeing.
About 18km from Wanaka, Otago, is the Diamond Lake and Rocky Mountain track, which, despite its spectacular views over Lake Wanaka and stunning mountain surroundings, is remarkably un-trampled! Here’s everything you need to know.
The first few days I was in Cuba I spent not just sightseeing, but also just learning the ropes, the basic knowledge needed for traveling in this country. The things that are normally quite easy when we’re abroad, like simply getting money or connecting to wifi, are just not that simple in Cuba. So here’s your ultimate guide to the practicalities in Cuba.
Want a nice day hike on New Zealand’s South Island? How about panoramic views of jagged mountain peaks and surrounding valleys, mirror-like lakes, stunning beech forests, high alpine vegetation, and a 174m high waterfall? Sound ok? Yeah, I thought so. So try this one!