Hear about travel to the top half of New Zealand's South Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about his adopted country.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Trav…Hear about travel to the top half of New Zealand's South Island as the Amateur Traveler talks to Jonty Crane from Jonty Travels about his adopted country.
This week's show is supported by the new Smart Travel Podcast. Travel smarter — and spend less — with help from NerdWallet. Check out Smart Travel here.
Why should you visit the top half of New Zealand's South Island?
Jonty says that this area has "spectacular scenery, natural hot springs, beautiful beaches, world-class vineyards, and whale watching".
Jonty suggests a two-week road trip (with additional optional side trips, particularly for multi-day hikes) starting in Christchurch and looping north through North Canterbury, Nelson/Tasman, Marlborough, and Kaikōura before returning to Christchurch. The trip combines cities, hot springs, alpine passes, national parks, short walks and multi-day hikes, vineyards, wildlife, and heritage.
Suggested Itinerary
Days 1–2: Christchurch
Explore the city centre, largely rebuilt post the devastating 2010/11 earthquakes: Hagley Park, Christchurch Botanic Gardens, Avon River punting, and the Christchurch Earthquake Memorial.
Visit cultural sites: Canterbury Museum, Christ Church Cathedral ruins, Christchurch Transitional Cathedral, aka the cardboard cathedral, Christchurch Art Centre, Teece Museum of Classical Antiquities, Rutherford’s Den, and Christchurch Art Gallery.
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https://amateurtraveler.com/northern-south-island-of-new-zealand/
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Have you ever dreamed of spending six weeks exploring France? In Unforgettable Six Weeks Across France: Travel Tips and Insights, Annie Sargent talks with Liz Van Monfort from Christchurch, New Zealand, about her incredible journey through France.
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Liz planned her trip aroun…Have you ever dreamed of spending six weeks exploring France? In Unforgettable Six Weeks Across France: Travel Tips and Insights, Annie Sargent talks with Liz Van Monfort from Christchurch, New Zealand, about her incredible journey through France.
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Liz planned her trip around the Rugby World Cup but quickly turned it into a deep dive into French culture, food, and travel. From the bustling streets of Paris to the charming villages of Provence, she shares her experiences with home exchanges, navigating the metro, and road-tripping through the countryside. She also explores historic sites like the battlefields of World War I and enjoys unforgettable food and wine in different regions.
Annie and Liz discuss the pros and cons of using FlixBus, TGV trains, and rental cars. Liz shares insights on how to budget for a long trip, where to find great meals, and why the Navigo pass made getting around Paris so much easier. Plus, hear about her side trips to Reims, Dunkirk, and even a quick visit to Barcelona.
If you're planning a trip to France, this episode is packed with real-world advice and inspiration. Listen now to learn from Liz's adventures and get tips for making your own French travel dreams a reality!
Table of Contents for this Episode
• Today on the podcast
• Podcast supporters
• Bootcamp 2025
• Magazine segment
• Welcome Liz van Montfort
• Planning the Trip for the Rugby World Cup
• Traveling Across France
• Getting Around France
• The FlixBus Experience
• Driving in France
• Exploring Provence
• Home Exchange Experience in Paris
• Sightseeing and Day Trips from Paris
• Exploring the Tunnels of Arras
• Visiting World War I Memorials
• A Day in Dunkirk
• Experiencing Parisian Life
• Cooking
• Navigating Paris with Ease
• Getting around Paris
• Reflections on the French Adventure
• Wise cards for payments
• Short trip to London
• Thank you Patrons
• Orly Airport Bus Service
• Updated Voicemap Tour Ile de la Cité
• Patricia's Magic Cards or How to Get Through Security Fast
• Next week on the podcast
• Copyright more
