If you ask your neighbors what places are on their bucket list, you’ll probably find that Australia and New Zealand top the list if they haven’t already visited these South Pacific countries. No matter what your style of travel, these nations have something for you.
For those who love the outdoors, the natural beauty can be seen as you backpack round either country. Water lovers can scuba dive or snorkel in amazing locales or surf the waves off Australia’s coasts. Wine lovers can sample local wines in one of Australia’s five wine regions. Photographers can take breathtakingly beautiful pictures in New Zealand. For those who are brave of heart, bungee jumping was invented in New Zealand and there are some great spots to try it for the first time!
You’ll also see unique wildlife in these two island nations. Where else can you see kangaroo, koalas, and kiwis in their native habitat. From the outback of Australia to the lush tropical forests to the mountainous peaks in New Zealand, you’ll see natural diversity that you may not find anywhere else on the planet. So, what is the best way to see these nations?
Cruise Vacations
If you don’t have a lot of time and want to see as much as possible, a cruise vacation may be right for you. You can circumvent both islands on longer cruises or just explore parts of each island. Best of all, your food and entertainment are included! Here is a sampling of cruise itineraries and cruise lines that serve Australia and New Zealand.
Luxury Cruises
Regent Viking
Crystal cruises also has Australia/New Zealand itineraries that you may enjoy as well.
Premium Cruises
Azamara Celebrity
Standard Cruises
Norwegian Cruise Lines and Royal Caribbean Cruise lines offer Australia/New Zealand options as well. You can check them out on our website!
Escorted Tours
A great way to see more of either nation in depth is to take an escorted tour. These tours usually include exclusive activities that you might not be able to do on your own and you get to hear all about the history and culture of the area you are visiting. I have listed four companies that do a great job and offer different options so you can take a look.
Collette Tauck
Globus Trafalgar
Independent Tours
If you like to customize your trip, you can take an independent tour. This may be a self-drive, chauffeured drive, or rail journey that will allow you to see just want you want in Australia and New Zealand. Several vendors can help with independent tours and we can help you select the right one for your journey and budget.
Swain Destinations Goway
Down Under Answers
