Kia Ora! I'm back after spending 3 months in an amazing, safe, clean and beautiful New Zealand. WOW! What a country! I can't wait to go back.
What is your favorite country to travel to and what kind of travel advice would you give for that country?
My advice to traveling New Zealand is, don't talk loud. Americans are VERY loud believe it or not. Plan for spending a shit load of money on gas (about $5.50 U.S dollars a gallon). Paaaay attention to staying the correct side of the road when you are driving. Rent a camper van! And if your going to certain small surfing towns, book your place to stay in advance. The weekends are always full. Check out airbnb. You can always find a yard to pitch a tent or park your camper van in for about $10.00 U.S dollars a night. Kiwi's are super laid back for if you're really on a budget, you can hitch hike around the country. Just have a small gift like chocolate for the driver that picks you up. But most of all, DON'T litter. Respect the local Maori culture. DON'T stare at a man with a Moko (very rude) and have tons and tons of fun! Don't forget to use sunscreen. The whole hole in the ozone layer thing..... the sun will cook you alive there.
Oh and in tiny surfing towns, no shirt, no shoes and you will still get service. It's New Zealand...they're cool like that. :-)