Huka Falls, softly fierce
When I saw Huka Falls before the trip to New Zealand, I knew we had to go there. I have a thing for waterfalls and this one looked promising. However, it seemed like we wouldn’t have time for it. After the challenges of Tongariro Alpine Crossing, the 19.4 km long hiking trail, we head back to Taupo. I don’t give up on the hope of seeing Huka Falls – we came from the other side of the world, let’s just do it! Waikato River, the longest river in New Zealand, winds lazily in emerald green and blue until we are overwhelmed by a powerful roar. From serene, the river here…
Tongariro Alpine Crossing: a step into Mordor
Wind, fog, and volcanic ash We arrive in Taupo on a night bus from Rotorua and get 3 hours of sleep before embarking early in the morning on a self-guided hike: Tongariro Alpine Crossing in Tongariro National Park. The Maori guy at the reception is kind enough to let us stay in the lobby and wait half-asleep for the bus. Taupo is famous for trout and we ask where we can try it. The fish is protected and it’s not offered at restaurants, however, the guy says that he could have arranged something for us via local fishermen. Unfortunately, we have to skip the fish this time. Tongariro Alpine Crossing…
The curse of Tutankhamun
I arrive in London and spot Tutankhamun’s death mask at one of the London Underground stations. This is where I’m going today – Tutankhamun: Treasures of the Golden Pharaoh exhibition at Saatchi Gallery. The exhibition seems promising with more than 150 original artifacts from the Pharaoh’s tomb, some of which have never been seen outside of Egypt before. Unsurprisingly it’s popular and long lines are expected. I have all the time in the world and am unaware that I will need it today. I need a specific time slot to visit the exhibition. However, the ticket page malfunctions and it takes me an hour to buy a ticket. Not a…
