Kia Ora North Island

Paradise found! Stunning scenery, amazing yet healthy food - If South Island is supposed to be even prettier than North Island, I really can't imagine what it can be like, and I certainly will go see it for myself. The 'little' road incident aside, this has been a nature lover's dream... from the 19.4km Tongariro Alpine crossing hike, our drives and cruise in the Coromandel Peninsula, my solo exploration at Rotorua and Waitomo, and most spectacular of all - 'the Shire'.... couldn't ask for more in a short 6 day trip. Believe it - NZ really lives up to the hype.

The start of the mighty Tongariro Crossing Trek

In search of Mount Doom

Spectacular Green Lakes with Snow

On the way down with Lake Taupo in the horizon

Spectacular coastal scenery in the Coromandel Peninsula

Seascape dotted with tiny little Islands

Cathedral Cove from our sea expedition

Artist's Palette at Waiotapu

Beautifully clear pools at Whakarewarewa Redwoods Park

Beautiful Hobbiton, the highlight of the trip

Fanboy's dream - the peaceful Shire

Tropical Paradise Langkawi

The Datai Langkawi - a beautiful resort nestled in a tropical rainforest with easy access to the just as pretty Datai Bay. More than just the architecture or setting, it's the magical experience that truly sets it apart. From the divine spa where relaxing massages are done accompanied by the sounds of nature, (calling birds, babbling stream, lapping waves) to the close proximity one gets to the abundant wildlife right out of our villa, (Macaque Monkeys, Dusky Leaf Monkeys, Hornbills, Squirrels) I couldn't have asked for a better place to bond over conversations around nature with my inquisitive little princess... *sigh*... I miss this place already...

Main Pool at the Datai

Lots of cute little frogs at the lily pond in their main lobby

Our rainforest villa with the balcony facing the stream 

Wide swathes of beach at Datai Bay

View out into some of the other Langkawi Islands

Magic moment captured

Third time Hawaii

Welcome to Taiwan (Part 1)

Not too much to show for this short 4D3N getaway based out of Taipei in Feb, 'less I want to make this a food post. Nevertheless, it was really enjoyable: great(and reasonably-priced) food, excellent customer service, easy to get around, and cool weather. We'll be back in Nov for part two!

Golden Waterfall near Jiufen