(10 Reviews)

Anthony Templeman

Palm Springs, CA

Great Barrier Reef Travel Agent Expert

Embarking on a journey to the Great Barrier Reef is like opening the door to an underwater universe, one that is teeming with life and drenched in colors so vivid they appear fantastical. Stretched along the northeast coast of Australia, this natu...
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Embarking on a journey to the Great Barrier Reef is like opening the door to an underwater universe, one that is teeming with life and drenched in colors so vivid they appear fantastical. Stretched along the northeast coast of Australia, this natural wonder, visible from outer space, beckons divers, snorkelers, and marine enthusiasts to experience its kaleidoscopic beauty.Your adventure might begin from one of the many gateways to the reef, such as the tropical city of Cairns or the quaint coastal town of Port Douglas. These locations offer easy access to the reef through a variety of tours and excursions tailored to every interest and skill level.Imagine dipping below the surface, where the warm ocean envelops you, revealing swirling schools of fish, gently waving coral, and the languid movements of sea turtles. Iconic sites like the Coral Sea's Osprey Reef, the Ribbon Reefs, and the Whitsunday's Heart Reef provide settings for experiences that resonate deeply within the soul.For a stunning bird's-eye view of the reef, take to the skies in a helicopter or seaplane. From above, the reef transforms into an abstract painting, with swirls of light and dark blues, dotted with the emerald tops of islands and the occasional break of white from the surf.The Great Barrier Reef is not just a haven for divers; it's a sanctuary for thousands of marine species. Snorkeling directly off the beach on islands like Green Island or Heron Island can deliver encounters with vivacious clown fish, majestic manta rays, or even the gentle giant of the sea — the whale shark.Beyond the water's edge, delve into the islands that dot the reef. Lizard Island marries luxury with adventure, serving as both a lavish retreat and a starting point for deep-sea explorations. On Lady Elliot Island, defined by its eco-conscious approach, every step contributes to conservation and sustainability.Back on the mainland, engage with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities that hold an ancestral connection to the marine environment. Learn about the cultural significance of the sea and reef, deepening your appreciation of this extraordinary ecosystem.As the sun sets on your Great Barrier Reef adventure, let the ocean's rhythm leave a lasting imprint on your spirit. The reef’s fragile beauty is matched only by its significance; a living entity that is under threat from climate change and environmental pressures.This journey to the Great Barrier Reef isn't merely a trip; it's an enthralling and essential addition to one's life experiences, a vivid reminder of nature's precarious beauty and the vital role we play in its preservation. It's an adventure that's both thrilling in its immediacy and profound in its lasting impact, leaving you not just with memories, but with stories to share and a relationship with the planet that is forever changed. 

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Anthony Templeman

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New Zealand Destination Travel Agent Expert

Milford Sound, South Island of New Zealand

New Zealand , for me one of the most beautiful places in the world is Milford Sound at the bottom of the South Island of New Zealand, I had an amazing overnight stay on a luxury boat it has 14 cabins and a gourmet chef to cook for us while we soaked up the beautiful scenery an wildlife. I've been to New Zealand many times , on one occasion I took a school music tour of 100 students with all their music instruments and equipment , we enjoyed a travelling music tour through New Zealand playing at local theaters. Queenstown is also a beautiful town on Lake Wakatipu, Here are my other top picks of New ZealandAucklandAuckland is New Zealand's largest city, with a population of more than 1.5 million. It's also a sprawling city, encompassing the Waitakere Ranges in the west, the North Shore in the north, the Hunua Ranges in the east, and Manukau City/Manurewa in the south, as well as several islands in the Hauraki Gulf. In short, there's a lot to see and do here, whatever your tastes and interests. It's easy to get around here without a car, either by walking or taking some easy bus rides, and there's a good concentration of accommodation, dining, and sights. Many travelers to New Zealand do like to rent a car, or take a couch tour and let someone do the driving for you Auckland to everything, from sweeping views to tasty food, chilled out parks and beautiful beaches, intriguing museums, and a hike up a volcano. The Northland region of New Zealand stretches upwards from Auckland to the very top of New Zealand. Take a journey along the Twin Coast Discovery Highway to the iconic Bay of Islands, as well as the Kauri Coast, the Far North, and Whangarei. Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Be amazed by the thousands of magical glowworms above, as you glide silently by boat in the world famous Waitomo Glowworm Caves. Guided since the late 1880s I love this experience of nature. Rotorua Rotorua is known for bubbling mud pools, shooting geysers and natural hot springs, as well as showcasing our fascinating Maori culture. I can highly recommend the Tamaki Maori Village Rotorua NZ - Maori Cultural Tour and Dinner its very enjoyable interesting and fun. Lake Taupo, At the heart of New Zealand’s central volcanic plateau sits the largest freshwater lake in Australasia, Lake Taupo. This huge, shining expanse of water, moving between aquamarine blue and jade green, is crystal-clear to a depth of 13 metres. It is home to one of the best wild trout fisheries in the world, more than 30 species of water bird, several types of native fish and native koura (crayfish).Queenstown is a resort town in Otago in the south-west of New Zealand's South Island. The very picturesque town is built around an inlet called Queenstown Bay on Lake Wakatipu, a long lake formed by glacial processes, and has majestic views of nearby mountains such as The Remarkables, Cecil Peak, Walter Peakand . Queenstown is a natural playground providing an incredible backdrop for a range of sights to see and things to do for adventurers of all persuasions. Each of the seasons has its own special vibe in Queenstown, and the great thing is that most activities can be accessed all year round. World-renowned for its adventure, Queenstown is home to a huge choice of adrenaline activities including jet boating, bungy jumping, white water rafting, skydiving and even indoor thrills –  When the cooler months arrive Queenstown transforms into a world class winter resort, with four ski areas and a range of activities, bars, restaurants and ways to relax and unwind. You can even combine a round of golf at one of Queenstown’s gorgeous clubs one morning with a tour of some of our wineries and cellar doors in Gibbston and further afield to discover why Central Otago Pinot Noir is famous on the world stage. If you’re looking for a slightly slower pace there’s plenty of recreational activities including hiking and biking trails to explore, guided tours, boat cruises, scenic flights or spa and wellness options to help you get away.  Christchurch is the city of exploration and heritage thrive. The city is constantly evolving, giving locals and visitors something new to explore. Expect street art and innovative projects, a bustling hospitality scene and established green spaces. Christchurch the central city is filled with cutting-edge architecture alongside some of the oldest buildings in New Zealand. The Avon River intersects the city, bringing a natural landscape to the urban environment. Christchurch is the basecamp for South Island exploration, with the Banks Peninsula within reach, as well as the stunning Southern Alps and famed Canterbury Plains.The surrounding Canterbury region offers visitors unforgettable journeys and picturesque towns, zen-like retreats and thrill-seeking opportunities. Escape to Hanmer Springs for a thermal soak, or north to Kaikoura to encounter the local wildlife.

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