TRIP | 2019-2020 Philippines, New Zealand, Australia

Updated: Aug 8, 2021

A 6-week trip to Oceania and Asia.

Six weeks spent soaking in the sights and sounds of the Philippines, New Zealand, Australia, and some places in between.

Philippines

It all started in the Philippines - but after short stop-overs in Taiwan and then Thailand. The week was spent with stays in Lucena and Manila with visits to Laguna (Cavinti and Pagsanjan), Tagaytay where we dined at Josephine's while enjoying the view of Taal Volcano. We missed the volcano's eruption nearly a month later.

New Zealand

Then off we went to New Zealand - via Singapore. To make the most of the long lay-over in Singapore, we availed of a tour around the city and that was definitely worthwhile.

Then off to Auckland - via Sydney (a short stop-over). Then on to Wellington via rail. And then by way of Interislander Ferry to Picton and rail to Christchurch.

Fantastic scenery and food! And if you're a Lord of the Rings fan - a visit to Hobbiton is a must while in Auckland. And visiting location sites in Wellington should not be missed.

Australia

At the tail-end of 2019 and the start of the new decade, Australia was reeling from the unprecedented scale of bush fires in the states of New South Wales, Victoria and parts of Queensland. Damages to wildlife and property were devastating.

The cities we visited - Sydney, Melbourne, and Brisbane - though largely unaffected by the wildfires, were not entirely spared. Air quality was poor and smog and the smell of smoke was fairly evident.

Most days however were clear and we were able to enjoy what these cities have to offer. Tours further afield - Great Ocean Road, Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary - were spectacular experiences that will be cherished for a lifetime.

GALLERY