DESTINATION: SCOTLAND
If you dont add Scotland to your must-visit list this summer youll miss out on hammer throwing with the burliest of highland lads, haggis, malt whiskey, kilt dances over swords, highland strolls and an amazing range of summer festivals. So what are you waiting for?
 Scotlands summer boasts a smorgasbord of festivals that will keep even the most jaded traveler entertained. See our calendar of events for the festive feast. However if you miss the festivities theres more than enough to keep you occupied touring through the diverse cultures in Scottish cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow and the incredible natural beauty in regions such as the Highlands, Shetlands and Grampians. Theres plenty here to amaze with historic castles, sparkling Lochs and soaring mountains.
Edinburgh is the place to start. The capital is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Europe thanks to some fine architecture and popular attractions including Edinburgh Castle, where the Military Tattoo takes place. Other great places to visit include the Palace of Holyroodhouse (a Royal residence for Queen Mary), the natural landscape of Holyrood Park, the ski fields at Hillend, an impressive zoo, fine theatre, golf courses and restaurants where you can wine and dine on haggis and malt whiskey.
The Scottish Highlands are some of the most rugged and beautiful parts of Scotland and should definitely be on your destination list. Some 250,000 people live here but are so spread out it can seem quite desolate. The culture here is distinct from other parts of Scotland and many still speak Gaelic language. And there is plenty to do - explore castles, visit museums, take a boat trip, a train ride, follow the whiskey trail, go to the famed Loch Ness, do some walking or cycling or get out and see the wildlife.
If you still have time on your hands go even more remote to the Shetlands, a group of 100 islands on the northeast coast. While only 29 are populated all have a lot to offer. The islands are home to stunning beaches, tall cliffs, wildlife, gorgeous scenery and friendly people. Visit the enormous seabird colonies, sight Killer Whales, enjoy ancient archaeological remains and a rugged landscape carved from ice glaciers.
Theres still plenty more to see. We havent even touched on the Castle or Malt Whiskey Trails in Grampian (a region in the north east), Loch Lomonds pristine natural surrounds or the Orkney islands wildlife tours and archaeological sites. We guarantee you wont be disappointed visiting Scotland!
VIP has plenty of accommodation choices to keep you happy and theres plenty of options if you use the VIP card for savings on accommodation, tours and services. | NZ TRAVEL NEWS
5 TOP AUTUMN DESTINATIONS
The cooler temperatures make Autumn an ideal time to visit and travel in New Zealand with gorgeous autumn colours and the perfect climate for enjoying the great outdoors.
1. Bay of Islands
Escape the onset of winter with a last minute visit to this island beach region north of Auckland.
2. Coromandel Peninsula
Autumn is the time to visit here while the seas are still warm for diving, snorkeling, fishing and visibility. Or head ashore for bush walking tracks with little traffic. Theres also fabulous bird watching before they head off for winter.
3. Rotorua
The misty mornings, falling leaves and drop in average temperatures around Rotorua is a great excuse to turn on the thermal heating and indulge in long relaxing hot baths.
4. Hawkes Bay
Enjoy the late harvest on the wine trail as the vineyards change colour. There are quaint art shops and local produce to indulge in particularly at the April (26-27) gourmet festival in Napier.
5. Arrowtown Autumn Festival (April 24 - May 4)
Enjoy the autumn scenery in this small town just outside of Queenstown. If you come for the community festival you can enjoy any of the 65 different events that pack the 11-day program. Markets, vintage cars, celtic music and cooking classes are just some of the fun.
UPCOMING NZ EVENTS
> New Zealand International Jazz and Blues Festival, Christchurch (March 25 - April 5)
> Auckland Wine & Food Festival (April 5 - 6)
> Balloons over Waikato hot air balloon festival (April 9 - 13)
> Napier Gourmet Festival, Hawkes Bay (April 26-27)
> Arrowtown Autumn festival (April 24 - May 4)
> Food Show, Wellington ( May 16-18)
> Winter Solstice Fire Festival, Hawkes Bay (June 21)
> Bay Of Islands Jazz & Blues Festival, Paihia, Waitangi and Haruru Falls (Aug 8 - 10) |
