Page 70 - Khabar Magazine (February 2020)

Travel

Tips for traveling to
New ZealanD

Don’t bargain
The Kiwis are very friendly people and
pride themselves in paying high wages to
quality guides and tour operators, and bar-
gaining will cause angry reactions. You don’t
need to pay tips, but accept that there’s a set
price for goods and services.

Be punctual
One of the things that South Asians strug-
gle with, according to Vermeulen, is leaving on
time for tours and activities. Even if you have
booked and paid for a tour, they won’t wait A field of lupins near Lake Tekapo, which is a big draw for
for you if you arrive late. Indian filmmakers.

Get away from the crowds Shredded Morel Mushroom
Recently, overcrowding at tourist loca- Curry is just one of the
tions has become a huge problem, leading to delights at Sidart, rated as
one New Zealand’s top
long lines, congested trails, and frustrating restaurants for the past
photos. To enjoy nature in all its glory, book three years.
private tours with smaller companies that of-
fer similar experiences.
Account for weather disruptions
The South Island is especially suscep-
tible to high winds and frequent rain, which
can cause interruption of helicopter and boat
tours. Be prepared for not everything going
according to plan and if time permits, stay for
a few extra days. Precautions Recommended

New Zealand offers stunning scenery, from for-
ests and glaciers to beaches and waterfalls. Being in
the Pacific Ring of Fire, it has a high frequency of vol-
canic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. A recent
eruption on White Island killed 16 people, including
Mrs. Mayuari “Mary” Singh from Atlanta. Though most
adventures are organized safely with ample warnings
and weather tracking, natural forces are unpredictable
and travelers must check multiple sources for any advi-
sories or closures, before embarking on tours to certain
at-risk areas.

A rousing traditional welcome from the Maoris, New Zealand’s
indigenous people. Sucheta Rawal is an Atlanta-based food and travel writer,
author of Beato Goes To series of children’s books, and founder of
the nonprofit Go Eat Give. Follow her on Instagram @SuchetaRawal

66 • FEBRUARY• 2020 KHABAR MAGAZINE