3 Ways You Can Save Money Travelling

BY  Sibashree Dec 28, 2023

New Zealand, an enchanting realm of natural wonders and cultural richness, beckons discerning travelers to experience luxury like never before. For those seeking a truly personalized journey, Custom Luxury Travel of New Zealand by Into the Vineyard offers the opportunity to tailor every aspect of your experience to match your unique preferences. Nestled in the southwestern Pacific Ocean, New Zealand is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, from snow-capped mountains to pristine beaches.  In this article, we embark on a journey through the epitome of opulence in New Zealand, exploring exclusive resorts, fine dining experiences, and bespoke adventures that elevate luxury travel to new heights. 1. Exquisite Accommodations and Resorts: 1.1 Huka Lodge – Taupo's Riverside Retreat Located along the banks of the Waikato River, Huka Lodge offers a retreat into nature, where the soothing sounds of the river complement the tranquility of the surroundings. Private cottages, each a haven of elegance, provide a seamless blend of comfort and luxury. With spacious interiors, outdoor hot tubs, and bespoke furnishings, guests find solace in opulent seclusion. The culinary experience at Huka Lodge is a testament to New Zealand's gastronomic prowess. Locally sourced ingredients take center stage, paired with an extensive selection of fine wines, creating an unforgettable dining journey. Duration: Flexible depending on stay Price Range: $1,500 — $3,000 per night 1.2 Eichardt's Private Hotel – Queenstown's Lakeside Gem Eichardt's Private Hotel, an embodiment of Queenstown's charm, seamlessly blends historic charm with contemporary luxury. Situated on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, it offers unparalleled views of the lake and surrounding mountains. Exclusive suites, meticulously designed for comfort and sophistication, feature lakefront balconies, plush furnishings, and personalized concierge services, ensuring a stay tailored to the individual needs of each guest. Indulge in a private chef's table experience at Eichardt's, where culinary artistry meets the freshest local produce. The menu is a celebration of New Zealand's diverse flavors, complemented by a curated selection of wines. Duration: Flexible depending on stay Price Range: $1,800 — $4,000 per night 1.3 The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs – A Golf Retreat in Northland Set amidst 6,000 acres of pristine landscapes, The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs is a sanctuary for those seeking both golfing excellence and luxurious accommodations. Lavish suites, each offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the Cavalli Islands, provide an idyllic setting for relaxation. The interiors exude sophistication, with attention to detail in every element. Helicopter excursions from the lodge allow guests to explore the nearby Bay of Islands and visit renowned wineries, creating bespoke adventures that complement the exclusive offerings of The Lodge at Kauri Cliffs. Duration: Flexible depending on activities Price Range: $2,000 — $5,000 per night 2. Gastronomic Delights: 2.1 Amisfield Winery – Queenstown's Culinary Haven Amisfield Winery, perched on the shores of Lake Hayes with the Remarkables as a backdrop, offers an immersive culinary experience amidst breathtaking scenery. Exclusive wine and dining experiences include private tastings guided by knowledgeable sommeliers. The degustation menus showcase the best of New Zealand's seasonal produce, ensuring a sensory journey through the region's flavors. The emphasis on farm-to-table dining at Amisfield underscores the commitment to sustainability, providing guests with not only a luxurious experience but also a connection to the region's culinary heritage. Duration: 2–3 hours for a dining experience Price Range: $200 — $500 per person 2.2 The French Café – Auckland's Michelin-Worthy Cuisine The French Café in Auckland stands as a culinary beacon, offering an intimate and sophisticated atmosphere for those seeking exquisite French-inspired cuisine. The curated menu is a testament to the chef's artistry, featuring locally sourced ingredients transformed into culinary masterpieces. The extensive wine list complements the flavors, with a focus on New Zealand's finest vintages. Impeccable service and an ambiance of understated elegance make The French Café a destination for discerning gourmands, where each dish is a symphony of taste and presentation. Duration: 2–3 hours for a dining experience Price Range: $250 — $600 per person 2.3 Hippopotamus – Wellington's Fusion of Art and Cuisine Nestled within the Museum Art Hotel, Hippopotamus in Wellington is a culinary gem that seamlessly blends artistry with gastronomy. The French-inspired cuisine at Hippopotamus takes on a Kiwi twist, featuring locally sourced ingredients. The result is a menu that reflects the diversity and richness of New Zealand's culinary landscape. The panoramic views of Wellington's harbor and city skyline provide a picturesque backdrop to the dining experience, making Hippopotamus a unique destination where art, ambiance, and cuisine converge. Duration: 2–3 hours for a dining experience Price Range: $220 — $550 per person 3. Bespoke Adventures: 3.1 Fiordland Helicopters – Milford Sound Aerial Escapade Fiordland Helicopters offers an unparalleled aerial escapade over the majestic landscapes of Fiordland National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Soar over cascading waterfalls, rugged cliffs, and the iconic Milford Sound, immersing yourself in the grandeur of nature. Personalized itineraries include alpine landings and gourmet picnics in remote, picturesque locations. The helicopter experience transforms a journey into an adventure, providing an exclusive perspective of New Zealand's natural wonders that few have the privilege to witness. Duration: 2–3 hours for the helicopter tour Price Range: $1,200 — $2,500 per person 3.2 Wharekauhau Country Estate – Wairarapa's Countryside Retreat Wharekauhau Country Estate, set against the backdrop of the Wairarapa region, invites guests to immerse themselves in a luxurious countryside retreat. The estate offers bespoke experiences, from horseback riding through the expansive grounds to private farm tours. Helicopter excursions unveil the rugged Wairarapa coastline and provide access to nearby wineries. Activities such as fishing, archery, and bird watching are tailored to individual preferences, ensuring that each guest can curate their own adventure in the picturesque landscapes surrounding Wharekauhau. Duration: Flexible depending on activities Price Range: $1,500 — $4,000 per night 3.3 White Island Volcano Adventure – Rotorua's Geological Marvel Embark on a private helicopter journey to White Island, an active marine volcano off the coast of Rotorua. Guided tours on the island explore the otherworldly landscapes of sulfur vents and volcanic craters, providing a unique blend of geological marvels and luxury travel. A gourmet picnic on the island's shores adds an element of indulgence to this adventurous experience, making the White Island Volcano Adventure a harmonious fusion of luxury and the raw beauty of nature. Duration: 4–6 hours for the helicopter tour and island exploration Price Range: $1,800 — $3,500 per person FAQs  Here are a few questions and queries on the topic of luxury travel in New Zealand that others find help and so would you as well. 1. What makes New Zealand a top destination for luxury travel?  New Zealand offers a rare blend of untouched natural beauty, exclusivity, and world-class hospitality.From private island retreats and alpine lodges to helicopter-accessed vineyards and bespoke adventure tours, luxury travelers can enjoy privacy, personalization, and breathtaking landscapes all in one destination. 2. Which regions in New Zealand are best for luxury experiences?  Some of the most sought-after luxury destinations include: • Queenstown – Known for luxury lodges, lakefront villas, and adventure experiences with premium services. • Auckland – Offers upscale waterfront hotels, fine dining, and yacht charters. • Rotorua – Famous for geothermal spa resorts and cultural immersion experiences. • Marlborough – Ideal for luxury wine tours and private vineyard stays. Each region offers distinct landscapes and premium travel experiences.  3. What types of luxury accommodations are available in New Zealand?  Luxury accommodation options range from: • Private luxury lodges with panoramic mountain views • Boutique waterfront villas • Five-star urban hotels • Exclusive-use estates and private island retreats Many properties offer personalized butler services, private chefs, and curated local experiences. 4. What exclusive experiences can luxury travelers enjoy in New Zealand?  Luxury travelers can indulge in: • Private helicopter tours over Milford Sound • Glacier landings near Franz Josef Glacier • Yacht charters around the Bay of Islands • Private wine tastings in premium vineyards • Custom Māori cultural experiences These curated experiences combine adventure with exclusivity. 5. When is the best time to plan a luxury trip to New Zealand?  The best time depends on your interests: • Summer (December–February): Ideal for beaches, sailing, and outdoor luxury experiences. • Autumn (March–May): Perfect for wine tours and scenic drives. • Winter (June–August): Best for luxury ski experiences in Queenstown. • Spring (September–November): Great for fewer crowds and blooming landscapes.  6. Is New Zealand suitable for honeymooners seeking luxury?  Absolutely. New Zealand is a premier honeymoon destination offering private lodges, romantic vineyard stays, secluded beaches, and spa retreats. Couples can combine relaxation with unforgettable scenic adventures.  7. How can travelers ensure a truly personalized luxury experience?  To maximize luxury travel in New Zealand: • Work with a high-end travel concierge or bespoke tour operator • Opt for private transfers and charter flights • Choose exclusive-use accommodations • Plan custom itineraries tailored to personal interests Advance booking is recommended, especially during peak seasons. 8. Is luxury travel in New Zealand family-friendly?  Yes. Many luxury lodges and resorts offer tailored family experiences, including private guides, adventure activities, and educational nature tours designed for children.  9. How accessible are remote luxury destinations in New Zealand?  Many high-end properties are accessible via scenic helicopter transfers, private jets, or chauffeur-driven vehicles. The journey itself often becomes part of the luxury experience.  Conclusion New Zealand, with its diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, has firmly established itself as a haven for luxury travelers seeking unparalleled experiences. From secluded riverside lodges to culinary masterpieces and bespoke adventures, the country provides a tapestry of opulence that harmonizes with its natural beauty.  Whether soaring over majestic fiords or indulging in fine dining overlooking pristine lakes, luxury in New Zealand transcends expectations, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in a world where every moment is a masterpiece of refinement and beauty.

BY  Sibashree Mar 5, 2026

Kandy has been in the news recently for the last-over clincher between Pakistan and Sri Lanka in the last ICC T-20 World Cup tournament.  It is also good to see Kandy slowly getting its rhythm back after the major disruption in the beautiful Colombo-Kandy-Ella-Badulla railway due to the impact of Cyclone Ditwah in the latter part of 2025.  With a man-made lake at the epicenter, Kandy, in a bowl of mountains, was home to the last rulers from the Kandyan empire.  Today, it continues to play an important role in the politics, economy, and culture of Sri Lanka as the capital of the Central Province.  Sri Lanka is full of contradictions. From the rich Tamil Culture in Jaffna and the abandoned Buddhist ruins at the Ritigala Forest Monastery, to the bustling city of Kandy, it’s like visiting different countries with a few miles of traveling.  Moreover, Kandy is just 20 km away from Gampola, the home to the famous Ambuluwawa Tower, the symbol of natural diversity and religious inclusivity in Sri Lanka.  Hi, in today’s blog, I will talk about how to reach Kandy, the things to do in Kandy, where to stay, where to eat, and more.  How To Reach Kandy?  Kandy, one of the major cities of Sri Lanka, is easily accessible. If you are a budget traveler and a believer of the LowDownUnder Travel philosophy, you can take a local bus or train for the journey.  1. The Kandy Railway Station: The Major Gateway The Kandy Railway Station is the main gateway to the city if you are traveling from other parts of the island.  Also, this railway station on the beautiful Kandy to Ella line still exudes a colonial charm and shows Victorian influences in its architecture.  A train ride from Colombo to Kandy takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes, and based on the class, the ticket prices cost between LKR 300 and 1200.  You can even take a train on the Kandy to Ella route to explore the tea plantations, mountains, and the highland region.  However, being one of the most scenic railway routes in the world, tickets for these trains are always in high demand.  You can check out the available tickets at the official website of the Sri Lankan Railways. Tickets for a date get sold out even 1 month before.  2. Colombo To Kandy Bus  If you cannot book trains to reach Kandy. Don’t get disheartened, as buses are available from the Bastian Mawatha Bus Station in Colombo.  You can take an ordinary or AC intercity bus to reach Kandy from Colombo. The distance is around 120 km and the travel time is approximately 3-4 hours.  Also, the ticket prices start from LKR 360.  What Are The Things To Do In Kandy?  Kandy is the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. So, no wonder that it offers a good mix of colonial history, spiritual experience, and the serenity of the Kandy Lake.  Also, Kandy is home to the quintessential Singhalese food. I found the delicacies in Kandy to be way creamier and milder than the fiery food in Jaffna.  Nevertheless, I will talk about what to eat in Kandy a little later, and for now, let’s explore the things to do in Kandy and enjoy a mixed bag of experiences.  1. Visiting The Royal Botanic Gardens Hours Open: 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM Entry Fee: LKR 200 for Locals, LKR 3540 for Foreign Visitors From Kandy City, you can take a short tuk-tuk ride to reach the Royal Botanic Gardens. It is home to more than 4000 plants and covers an area of 147 acres.  A green oasis in the overwhelming city landscape, it also has an arboretum and decorative flower beds.  My favorite, however, was the majestic palm tree avenues. However, as the day grew, it got crowded by social media content creators.  Furthermore, there are giant bamboo trees. Another popular photography spot in the national park is the Mahaweli Ganga River suspension bridge. However, more than five people cannot get on the bridge at a time.  So, you may have to wait in a queue if you desperately want a photo for your socials.  Moreover, you will see bats hanging from trees, chipmunks, and monkeys in the botanical gardens. And don’t miss the Spice Garden here.  Also, if you feel hungry, you can buy drinks and snacks from the stalls inside and the local vendors outside the park. 2. Exploring The Udawattakele Forest Reserve Hours Open: 6 AM to 6 PM Entry Fee for Foreigners, LKR 830, For Locals: LKR 70  I walked for around 30 minutes to reach the Udawattakele Forest Reserve. You can even take a tuk-tuk ride from the Centre of Kandy.  It has some of the most famous caves in Candy and diverse fauna.  However, I did not expect that mother macaque monkeys would welcome me with their babies clinging to them.  After the grand entry, I chose the circular route around the park as I wanted to see the religious caves, the bathing pond, and the city viewpoint.  The Route  The green canopy stands in humility as you advance on the route, and now you are transported to a different world.  The birds were chirping, and I could hear the squeal of monkeys.  However, the highlight on that route was the Liana’s. These tree-sized vines created coils along the oath.  I followed the route upward and reached the City View Point.  The City View Point  From the City View Point, I loved the perspective of Kandy City and Lake. Then, walked further to come across the Cittavisuddhi Lena cave and othe two religious caves.  The cave had beautiful sculptures, paintings, and offerings by pilgrims. These are sacred to the Buddhist people.  However, overgrown trees and the fear of insects and bats deterred me from entering the cave and exploring the two other Buddhist caves.  Despite all the cautions, destiny had something different in store for me. There were leeches all over my legs, and luckily, I was carrying adequate salt to get rid of them.  The fellow tourists also helped to remove the leeches.  3. Visiting The Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue The Bahirawakanda Vihara Buddha Statue at the top of a hill is the guardian angel of Kandy. You need to take a short and steep walk to reach the Buddha Statue from the town.  You can even take a tuk-tuk.  Once you reach the statue, you can find the steps behind the magnificent statue and climb to higher vantage points looking over the other side of the city of Kandy.  Moreover, there is a small shop from where you can take trinkets and religious texts. The entry fee was 600 LKR when I visited last.  4. Exploring The Kandy Market I mentioned how an old lady in the Jaffna Public Market was the icebreaker during my trip to Jaffna.  In Kandy, it was the Kandy Market, which made me acquainted with the hilly region of Sri Lanka.  The market was near the Kandy Station. I visited it early in the morning and found vendors selling dried fish, bananas, fresh vegetables, and souvenirs.  5. Spending Moments By The Kandy Lake The Kandy Lake, or Lake Kandy, is at the heart of the city and is very close to the Temple of the Tooth.  It is a magnificent man-made lake around which you can take a walk of 2.1 miles. The pathway is called the Cloud Wall, and the highlight of my walk was finding out about the Queen’s bathing pavilion.  This ivory excellence reminded me of the regal past of the Kandy Lake.  I also spotted the ducks, busy schools of fish, and water monitor lizards.  Moreover, there is a well-groomed garden in the center of the lake. When I visited, it was in full bloom.  6. Walking To The Kandy Viewpoint After stretching my legs at the Kandy Lake, I took a short walk to reach the Kandy Viewpoint.  Hiking to the Kandy Viewpoint is one of the most delightful free things to do in Kandy. You can capture panoramic shots of the city from this viewpoint and interact with local hawkers for a meaningful cultural exchange.  7. Visiting The Asgiri Maha Vihara Pirivena - Buddhist Stupa And Temple If you are a Buddhist or someone eager to learn about the religion, visiting the Asgiri Maha Vihara Pirivena is one of the best things to do in Kandy.  This stupa is very close to the city, and I took the stairs across the train tracks to reach the stupa.  For me, the highlight of the stupa was the meditation room on the central floor. The iconographies were grand and meaningful.  Furthermore, the walls there depicted the three stages of decay a body has to undergo after death.  However, I did not yet know what was awaiting me, the dome of the stupa.  Filled with Buddhist artwork, an enormous lotus carving, and eight statues of Lord Buddha, it defined enormity.  The military guide finally took me to the balcony that surrounds the stupa. I found many monks clad in orange robes busy in their rituals, and I also loved the view.  8. Visiting The Temple Of The Tooth A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of the Tooth or Dalada Mandira preserves the canine tooth of Lord Buddha.  It has the Udawaththa Kelaya to the east and the Lake Kandy to the south.  After several invasions and destructions, the temple was finally rebuilt by King Keerthi Sri Rajasinghe, and it is in its current form that we see today.  The temple has beautiful works of ivory, gold, and silver.  More Things To Do In Kandy  Along with being a primary tourist attraction in Sri Lanka, Kandy is also the gateway to many iconic landmarks showing the richness of Sri Lanka in nature and wildlife.  You can take a train ride or a bus ride from Kandy to the Royal Cave Temples of Dambulla. Or, you can attend a wildlife safari in Kaudulla National Park and other national parks of Sri Lanka.  Where To Stay In Kandy? Know The Accommodations I stayed at a hostel near the hillside surrounding the city. It was modest, but the views I got from the room and balcony were amazing.  However, if you are not willing to walk so much, you can choose places such as the Ceyloni City Hotel.  The tariff of this city hotel is around 7500 LKR.  What To Eat In Kandy?  You can choose between vegetarian and non-vegetarian options in Kandy. Balaji Dosai is a nice spot to try vegetarian food, especially dosa.  The Siri Ramya Hotel is the place to try Kottu Roti in Kandy. You can have it as spicy as you want. Also, you can combine them with different types of veggies, eggs, chicken, or mutton.  Another thing you must not miss in Kandy is the snacks available on the bus or train. The fried chips and snacks have a lot of salt and chilli.  However, they are great for the taste buds.  Also, do not forget to try the rice and curry combination at the “famous hole in the wall rice and curry joints” in Kandy.  These offer a nice and filling lunch at the best price.  The Nightlife In Candy: Where To Drink?  Kandy is not a place famous for its nightlife. However, if you want to cherish some drink after a busy day, you can visit places such as The Stag’s Head Pub and the Royal Bar and Hotel.  Enjoy the beers, cocktails, and your favorite drinks with spicy local snacks, and enjoy the view of the city and lake at night.  Drinking at any of these places will cost you around 790 LKR.

BY  Abdul Aziz Apr 28, 2023

Spring is the perfect time to embark on a journey with your loved ones to explore new and exciting summer destinations that cater to your preferences and needs. While traveling can be an exciting and enriching experience, it is important to take proper care of your eyes to ensure a stress-free trip. Your eyes may be exposed to a variety of stressors, including different environments, climates, and long flights, which can affect your vision and ruin your vacation. To ensure that you have an enjoyable trip without worrying about your eye health, read below! Tips To Take Care Of Your Eyes During Vacation! We have got the best tips for you in order to have a healthy vision on your trips and have the best time of your life! Pre-trip eye exam Prior to traveling, it's important to schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist. They can examine your eye health and provide recommendations on how to protect your eyes from any potential risks you may encounter while traveling. They can also ensure that your glasses or contact lenses prescription is up-to-date to avoid any discomfort or vision issues during your trip. So, add to your calendar this appointment with your optician and you are not going to regret it at all. Polarized sunglasses Moreover, sunglasses are a must-have accessory for anyone traveling to sunny destinations. However, not all sunglasses provide the same level of protection. It's important to invest in polarized sunglasses that are designed to block harmful UV rays. Polarized sunglasses are known to reduce glare as well as improve the clarity of vision. This makes them an excellent choice for anyone who loves outdoor activities. Rest your eyes Of course, long flights or road trips can be exhausting, and staring at a screen or reading a book for an extended period of time can cause eye strain and headaches. To prevent this, take a break every hour or so and close your eyes or look at something in the distance. This will give your eyes a chance to rest and reduce the risk of developing eye strain. Stay hydrated As you might already know about eye health, the fact is that dehydration can cause dry eyes, and being on a long flight or train ride can exacerbate this issue. To prevent this, make sure to drink plenty of water throughout your trip. Drinking enough water can also help to reduce the risk of developing eye infections, especially if you wear contact lenses. Eye drops Last but not least, dry eyes can also be caused by environmental factors, such as air conditioning, heating, or pollution. In these situations, artificial tears or lubricating eye drops can help to keep your eyes moist and comfortable. It's important to pack these drops in your carry-on luggage, especially if you're traveling to a dry or polluted area. This way you will not feel your eyes to be itchy or hurting, you will feel ready to embark on this new adventure! Keep Contact Lenses Handy It is very important that you are able to take care of your prescribed contact lenses if you have any, when you are on your trip. Ensure that you are taking them off in regular intervals and keeping them in the safe and prescribed space with the solution. While it is true that you may not get everything at hand all the time, ensure that you are carrying the lens solution with you all the time. Avoid using other substitutes like water in this case. Carry extra pair It is important that you are carrying an extra pair of eye care all the time when you are on your trip. Have you ever considered what might happen if you lose your prescription medicine or your medicated sunglasses when you are on vacation? Well, if that is something that you want to avoid it is important that you always carry an extra set of lenses, glasses, and your eye medicines with you. Avoid or use minimal eye-makeup Last but not least on this list is the fact that it is important you are not using a lot of eye makeup when you are on your trip. These things attract and trap or retain a lot of dust and dirt. This might make it difficult for you to have an enjoyable trip at the end of the day. It is also best to avoid using too much eye makeup as this may cause a risk of an eye infection. Bottom Line If you found the answer that you were searching for I hope that this article has been of help to you. If there are any other queries related to the same, feel free to let me know. All that you need to do is scroll down till you reach the end of this article and drop your doubts and queries in the comment box below. And I will be there to answer them all for you! Read Also: Hopper Flights Review- Login, Services, And Travel Experiences Myenvoyair Review – Registration, Login And Benefits In 2023 Using Google Flights To Find Cheap Flights In 2023? All That You Need To Know!