TOURING THE CONTINENT OF OCEANIA
Bruce and I have been blessed with a shared “Love of Travel.” Over our twenty years together, we have explored six continents and recently toured Oceania, which includes Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, and other South Pacific islands. Antarctica remains the only continent we’ve yet to visit, though we came close during a trip to Patagonia, Argentina.
Our Oceania adventure took us from the “Land Down Under” to New Zealand’s “Land of the Long White Cloud” and concluded in Fiji. It was a journey through breathtaking natural wonders, vibrant cities, and unique cultural experiences.
We began with two days of travel—three flights from Pittsburgh to Melbourne— arriving on October 21 after crossing the International Date Line. Our Melbourne hotel, the Vibe, offered a dramatic first impression with its skyline views. In Melbourne, we toured landmarks such as the Royal Exhibition Building, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and the Shrine of Remembrance, and enjoyed a historic tram ride. That evening, we visited Philip Island for the Penguin Parade, watching tiny penguins return to shore to feed their young. Along the way, we also spotted wallabies and echidnas.
Next, we flew to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. A sunny day on a catamaran cruise took us to Michaelmas Cay, where we explored the reef via snorkeling and a glass-bottom boat. The marine biology presentation onboard deepened our appreciation for this natural wonder. Dinner that night featured Australian Pinot Noir and lasagna by the harbor.
In Sydney, we explored iconic sights like the Sydney Opera House and Bondi Beach. A highlight was the Sydney Harbor Dinner Cruise, where we sailed under the Sydney Harbor Bridge and enjoyed the city’s twinkling lights. Another day included a relaxing visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, followed by whale watching, where we saw a humpback mother and her calves.
Leaving Australia, we flew to Queenstown, New Zealand, where our guide Tim Reed provided a city orientation. Despite rainy weather on arrival, the next day brightened as we ventured into Fiordland National Park. Milford Sound’s sheer cliffs and waterfalls were stunning, and we enjoyed a cruise with a buffet lunch onboard. Returning to Queenstown, we dined at Ferg Burger, a perfect end to the day.
Arrowtown’s historic charm and a gondola ride to Bob’s Peak offered scenic views of Lake Whakatipu. Dinner at Walter’s Peak included a barbecue feast, a sheep-shearing demonstration, and a sheepdog herding show—a quintessential New Zealand experience. In Auckland, we toured Mission Bay, dined on Indian cuisine, and admired the illuminated Sky Tower. A ferry ride to Waiheke Island featured wine tastings, an olive oil mill visit, and tales of the island’s history.
Our trip ended in Fiji, where we stayed at the Radisson Blu Resort on Denarau Island. Tivua Island provided a day of snorkeling, cabana relaxation, and cultural experiences, including a traditional Kava ceremony. The farewell dinner featured a Fijian luau with fire dancing.
Returning home on November 5 required multiple flights, including a rebooking due to a missed connection. Despite 22 hours in the air, we reflected on the amazing sights, great weather, and wonderful friends we’d made on this unforgettable journey. Until we travel again!
