Be one of the first in the world to see this exclusive video content of The Hobbit, from Air New Zealand, featuring the Cast and Sir Peter Jackson.
Guest Post: Forget Fuzzy FM, Meet DAB Radio
With its first channel broadcasting in 1995, DAB (Digital Audio Broadcasting) radio seems to be a late comer to the game in terms of broadcast radio. With FM as the looming giant of the broadcast industry, and satellite radio being the main alternative, it is unfortunate that people have overlooked this cheap and excellent alternative to the established trends. People just aren’t getting rid of their analogue radios as quickly as they should, but with the digital switchover on the TV front here in the UK, is it time to switch over to a portable DAB radio too?
UK readers will be the most familiar with this option though it has made little headway anywhere else. This is unusual, however, as the many boons to using DAB very quickly outweigh the benefits of FM. Firstly, Digital Broadcast Radio allows for more station density; in layman’s terms: close frequencies no longer interfere with eachother with this technology – meaning more stations and less interference. Secondly, users of DAB radios will no longer be forced to listen to the whining hiss that plagues many FM receivers. Among many other sound quality enhancements, this particular feature of DAB makes radio sound just like playing off a CD.
Last, and most importantly, it is important to point out the many features that digital broadcasting can supply to listeners beyond the music. Digital broadcasting allows information about the song, such as artist, genre, and recommended titles to be streamed directly with the music. Information can be given beyond the music as well, giving you traffic updates on your current route. Most impressively, The DAB radio can also be used, similar to TIVO, to pause and record broadcasts as they happen. Ended your trip just as your favourite song came on? Simply hit pause, and listen to it as soon as you return to your car. DAB radios are like DVRs for the good old wireless, it really is a revolution.
With these many features, it is a wonder that the DAB radio has not become a more widely used technology than the aging FM in the twenty years since its invention. As new advancements in the world of technology come to light, DAB has become a cheaper alternative as well, suggesting the FM’s days may be numbered. The digital switchover in radio has begun, get on board!
Air New Zealand unveils a Hobbit-inspired plane
Air New Zealand have unveiled a plane decked out with a huge The Hobbit: An Unexpected Journey graphic. Report by Laurie Blake.
Article: Wellington without Bilbo: hobbit-free New Zealand haunts
New Zealand’s capital city has hotels, bars, coffee shops and galleries to enjoy without any sign of orcs, elves or the Shire
Article: The ultimate Middle Earth self drive
To celebrate the release of new film The Hobbit, why not take a tour around its stunning New Zealand filming locations?
This 13 day New Zealand self drive literally takes you through Middle Earth – or where Lord of the Rings was filmed – and to all the spectacular Hobbit filming locations. Beginning in Auckland, you’ll drive through farmland used for The Shire, see thermal Rotorua and visit Mount Ruapehu which is Mordor in the movie. From Wellington, take an extended ‘Middle Earth Filming Locations’ tour and admire scenery you’re bound to recognise. Then, hop over to South Island by ferry, see Nelson, where the ring was made, Franz Josef, and safari around gorges, fjords and historic mining towns on an exhilarating off-road tour.
Royal tour: what to see and do in Auckland
The Telegraph in London has a great summary of what to see and do in Auckland, New Zealand.
Video: Exploring Kiwi Culture in Culture Kaboom
Griffin, Christian, David and Graeme are old high school friends. They traded everything from clothes to hockey gear for some cultural kaboom in New Zealand.
Epic landscapes, hanging with the friendly locals, and hot pools is just half of the adventure. So was the stuff worth the story? Read the blog and decide for yourself: http://www.newzealand.com/int/campaign/stories-beat-stuff/blog/nzculturalkaboom
Guest Post: How to Survive the Long Flight to America from New Zealand
A flight to America can vary from 12 to 18 hours, depending on the departing and arriving cities. If the thought of spending this much time on a plane makes you uneasy, do not worry – this is natural! That is a long time to spend in a confined space. However, you can learn how to survive the long flight to America. Fortunately, many airlines have become aware of how fatiguing this flight can be. Some airlines have started upgrading their cabins to be more conducive to over-seas flights. Some airlines feature complete sleeper units, while others have added TVs with a selection of games and movies.
Minimize Discomfort by Planning Ahead
Before you even arrive at the airport, begin to adjust your eating and sleeping schedules for your destination time. According to Victoria Ross, writer for USA Today and travel enthusiast, many airlines help with this process by closing shades and dimming lights while in the departure city. By beginning to adjust your sleep schedule ahead of time, you will greatly minimize jetlag and adjust to the new destination’s schedule with ease. Sleeping on the plane during the flight is ideal; however sleep may evade you. Prepare a contingency plan for the long flight, such as a book or game. Also bring a light meal to eat around the same time that people at your destination will be eating their meals.
Ross suggests that you can further prepare for this long flight by dressing appropriately. Dress in the most comfortable pair of clothes you own. Business clothes and high heels will not assist you in finding comfort during this flight. Wear comfortable clothes and thick, warm socks during the flight. Below is a brief list of other items that will aid in creating a comfortable environment on the plane:
- Lip Balm
- Unscented hand lotion
- Earplugs
- Earphones
- Eye mask
- Neck pillow
- Any other comfortable, relaxing item
Stay Limber and Active
One of the most difficult parts of this long flight is the discomfort that comes from staying seated for so long. The solution to this problem is simple – move around! Airline staff expects that passengers will walk the aisles on long flights. Feel free to get up, when appropriately designated by the pilot and walk around the cabin. Make sure you avoid restricted areas and do not disturb other travelers.
You can also stay limber without leaving your seat. Stretching in your seat can be possible. Below are several simple stretches and activities you can do in your seat to ward off body pain:
- Roll your neck slowly from side to side. Take deep breaths to help relieve any knots.
- Look left and right repeatedly, this stretches different neck muscles than neck rolls.
- Lift your legs in an alternating fashion, holding for however long you wish.
- Twist around in your seat. Place your left hand on your right knee, and twist towards the back of your seat. Perform the same stretch on the opposite side.
- Shrug your shoulders as high as you can, and then as low as you can. Coordinate this with your breath for greater relaxation.
Perform this stretching routine as many times as you wish, as long as it does not disturb other passengers. Additionally, meditation is a great way to aid relaxation and can even guide you into a restful nap.
Disembarking From Your Plane
Prior to landing, most airlines will provide you with the necessary immigration forms. It will ask for the flight information and any other countries you have recently visited. Prepare to go through customs before being released to your American city of choice. Throw away any food items you may still be holding from your home country – customs does not allow food items to enter the country.
You Can Survive Your Flight
Surviving your flight is dependent on remaining relaxed and comfortable. Prepare by dressing in your most comfortable clothes and regularly taking breaks to walk around and stretch. Do not let the prospect of a long flight deter you from visiting such an exciting and beautiful country. After you step off the plane, get through customs and start enjoying your vacation – the flight will fade into your memory.
About the Author: Jason Camacho is a contributing writer and a long-time international traveler. He regularly flies over the Atlantic and Pacific to reach exciting new destinations for both business and pleasure.
Guest Post: What to Pack for Any Cruise
Cruising is one of the most luxurious ways to spend a holiday. Whether your idea of the ultimate getaway is to engage in energizing sport related activities, partake of exciting nightlife, embark on intriguing excursions into faraway lands or just relax and be pampered, cruising is for you. Here are some tips on what to bring aboard any cruise.
Luggage
Each guest has a maximum luggage allowance to bring aboard, depending on the length of stay. This allowance is usually in excess of what airlines consider excessive or oversized baggage. A good rule of thumb is to contact your airline for its specific baggage policies. Whether flying or driving to the embarkation point, utilize a carry-on bag for all your essentials. Your hand baggage should contain any valuables such as money, jewellery, medication, keys, sunglasses, photography equipment and laptop computers. If you are flying, pack an extra set of casual wear in your carry-on bag in the event your checked bags are delayed. Also, be sure to carry identification documents on your person.
Necessary Documentation To Have On Hand
• Full passport
• Boarding pass
• Any required visas
• The credit card used to purchase your holiday
• Any required inoculation records
• Family legal documents
These items need to be presented before boarding the ship. Keep in mind that a passport presently takes approximately four to six weeks to obtain. Allow longer at busy times of the year. Passport and visa requirements may change and vary by destination.
Excursions
Before packing your luggage, check on average temperature and weather conditions at the ports-of-call listed on your itinerary. Be sure to base your queries on conditions relevant to the time of year you will be arriving at the destination. Every port that your ship docks at will offer a wealth of opportunity for shopping, dining and touring local attractions. Check your land excursion itinerary for complete details and tips regarding special clothing.
Suggested Evening Attire Guidelines
Every cruise ship is unique. Day and night time activities vary according to the programmes available on board. However, when considering evening attire, take into account that there are three distinct dining experiences awaiting you in the main dining hall, so pack accordingly.
Casual
• Men – a polo shirt and trousers
• Women – a sundress or trousers
Smart casual
• Men – a jacket and shirt with trousers
• Women – a dress or trouser suit
Formal
• Men – a suit and tie or a tuxedo
• Women – a short cocktail dress or a gown
There are one to three formal nights during your stay aboard Voyager of the Seas cruises, as well as most other ships, depending on how many evenings your holiday accommodates. Children are required to adhere to the evening attire dress code as well. If you prefer casual dining, every ship offers at least one informal restaurant with a relaxed atmosphere for your evening dining pleasure. Whether your destination takes you to New Zealand, the South Pacific or Asia, enjoy exciting land tour programmes, spectacular entertainment, first-rate service and fun on-board activities. Just don’t forget to save room in your luggage for souvenirs.
Guest Post: Popular Extreme Sports in New Zealand
New Zealand is a small country with a big reputation for great natural beauty and adventure tourism. Some sports are thrilling and take skill and courage and then there is the next level. New Zealand holidays that include extreme sports are not for everyone.
Paragliding
The closest humans come to flying, is paragliding or parapenting. A paraglider is a combination of a hang glider and a parachute. The modified parachute has wings that keep their shape through air pressure because of the inflation of many cells. It is lightweight and can be steered. Beginners fly tandem strapped to an experienced pilot who teaches them how to steer with the toggles and how to make a soft stand-up landing.
Jet Boating
Jet boating was invented in New Zealand in 1957 by a man who needed to navigate shallow water to view his property. The inboard engine sucks water into a tube where it is blown out a stern nozzle by an impeller. This creates a high-speed jet stream. It can run in less than three centimetres of water. Rivers on both the North and South islands are navigated by jet boats. It is a fast, thrilling ride unlike anything else.
Bungee Jumping
Commercial bungee jumping was invented in New Zealand as an extreme sport after seeing Vanuatu islanders jump from a tower 35 metres high with vines tied to their ankles. A. J. Hackett exchanged the vines for latex rubber cords and introduced jumping from bridges, cranes or towers built for the purpose. The jump is controlled for complete safety. There are bungee jumping sites all over New Zealand.
Black Water Rafting
Black water rafting is done in caves in the dark and was first attempted in 1987 in the Ruakuri Cave on an inflatable tube. Also called cave tubing, it begins when participants jump two metres into the black, dark water with an inner tube around their waist. Black water rafting is mainly in Waitomo, but there are other limestone caves in New Zealand where black water rafting has yet to catch on. One highlight in Waitomo is the glow-worm studded walls and ceilings.
Canyoning
Canyoning takes place in deep river gorges in the wilderness with rushing rivers below. Canyoning begins with a walk along a stream bed. When the sheer walls begin to rise, participants need abseiling gear, a wetsuit, harness, helmet and boots. They descend into the abyss accompanied by the sound of rushing water. There are steep chutes, waterfalls, deep sumps to swim across, and ledges from which participants jump into pools. It is a wild, wet sport and a real thrill in the untouched natural environment.
River Sledging
River sledging is the next step after white water rafting. With only a swimsuit and a polystyrene sled or boogie board, flippers, helmet and wetsuit, participants travel face down towards the water, and are one with the rapid current. The sled moves sideways through whirlpools and eddies and sometimes an abrupt stop by a contrary wave. Turbulent rivers are the most fun, and river sledging New Zealand holidays are mainly in Queenstown and Wanaka.