Mt Cook is by far one of the most impressive highlights of the South Island and New Zealand in general. A prominent peak with its jagged edges, angry looking glaciers and height, it towers above the nearby mountains. The beauty of this area is that you can experience to a small extent, what the Himalayas look like from only an elevation of about 500 meters. On clear days the panoramic vistas are absolutely stunning. Note that Mt. Cook is … [Read more...]
New Zealand, South Island – Milford Sound
Milford Sound on a clear day is among the most beautiful scenery in all of New Zealand. Unfortunately clear days are really hit and miss as Milford averages over 6 meters of rain a year. Woo! One year they had like 10 meters of rain. On a clear day, this along with Mt. Cook will be one of primary natural highlights of any trip to New Zealand. However, on a rainy foggy day, the entire mood of the region changes and often visibility is severally … [Read more...]
New Zealand, South Island – Glaciers
Franz Josef and Fox are the two primary glaciers located on the west coast of the South Island. Visitors who arrive on a rainy day won't really begin to see the beauty and extent of their coverage - both are among the fastest moving glaciers in the world and their footprint is constantly changing from year to year. Glaciers in Argentina and other parts of southern South America are similar to those in New Zealand in that these are the only places … [Read more...]
New Zealand, South Island – Pukekura
Pukekura is the smallest town on the entire west coast of New Zealand's South Island - permanent population, drum roll... two! For about 30 years this was the home of the famous and historic Puke Pub (which allowed deer to wander in and out) and the Wild Game Restaurant across the street which serves a variety of Road Kill Grills, including possum, and their famous possum pie. NOTE: Unfortunately the owners, Pete & Justine have since closed … [Read more...]
New Zealand, South Island – Other Info
This page contains general information about traveling and sightseeing in New Zealand. These items below are based upon several activities the author experienced while traveling on the South Island. Tracks - all hiking trails in New Zealand are called tracks, and people who hike these are called Tramps; the "sport" of hiking the "Tracks" is called "Tramping". In other countries this same outdoor activity would be described as simply … [Read more...]
Iquitos, Peru – More Info
There is not an overwhelming amount of information about Iquitos on the web such as there is for other major tourist destinations. Some of the more informative sites are the following: www.explorama.com major local tour companies - you can pre-book your trip with this company www.galenfrysinger.com/iquitos.htm photos of Iquitos & Iquitos attractions, short descriptions also www.iquitosnews.com a must visit site for travelers … [Read more...]
Istanbul, Turkey – Must See Attractions
Some of the primary historical attractions are only open on certain days of the week. Many are open from Tuesday through Sunday and are closed Mondays. Dave has visited the following sites within Istanbul. Blue Mosque (Sultanahmet Camii) was constructed in the early 1600's. Admission is free but donations are accepted. Because this is such a heavily visited tourist destination, tourists are only allowed to enter from one of the side doors … [Read more...]
Museo de Oro, Costa Rica – December 2004
Museo de Oro Costa Rica - The Pre-Columbian Gold Museum is located underground in downtown San Jose Costa Rica. If you only visit one museum in Costa Rica this is the museum to visit. Thousands of pre-Columbian hand made gold artifacts totaling over 20,000 troy ounces fill the tastefully designed & lighted viewing rooms. This collection started in the 1950's when the Central Bank of Costa Rica started collecting artifacts and other antiquities. … [Read more...]
Saigon, Vietnam
Ho Chi Minh City, (HCMC) or Saigon (District 1), was founded about 300 years ago. This is Vietnam's largest city with around 9 million people. For comparison, the roots of Hanoi in the north date back to the 3rd century BC and that city was founded more then 1000 ago. Ho Chi Minh City can be explored on bike or foot. However be aware that traffic conditions can be horrific at times - Ho Chi Minh City features thousands of motor bikes - they … [Read more...]
Saigon, Vietnam – Attractions
Many of Saigon's primary attractions are located in District 1 or 3 and often are within walking distance of each other. Tours outside of the city are usually reached by bus. Here are a few attractions that we have visited during multiple trips to Saigon. Ben Thanh Market is located in District 1 and houses numerous vendors selling a wide variety of handicrafts, souvenirs, fruits and vegetables. This market was first built in 1914. Large … [Read more...]
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