Austraila or New Zealand

[Disney Hot Mama]

We are thinking of putting in for a trade to either New Zealand or Australia for summer 2006. Has anyone done this? The specific resort is not important as we have never been overseas to either of these locaitons and would find tons of stuff to do at either one. It would be me, DH(40) and DD (8 at the time) and DS (10 at the time) Comments, suggestions, help is appreciated.

I personally wanted to try Fiji but DH said no. He finally agreeded to either of these two locations.

Help please - if this is something that will not be 'approved' exchanged please let me know this too so I don't get my hopes up.

Thanks

 

[gilld]

Although I think most people would automatically say Australia, but I think New Zealand. I know loads who have been there and say it is quite magical. The scenery is breathtaking and the people are so friendly. It is apparently like the UK was around 50 years ago with everyone having time for eachother but with facilities etc all very up to date. It is also a very "outdoors" sort of place and the food is the best.

My daughter stayed there for over a month when travelling around the world a couple of years ago and plans on going there to live when she completes her Doctorate in two years. So we'll be to and fro ourselves then!

Do consider the best time to go though as it can be cold in winter.

 

[BCV23]

Our son would agree with Gill's daughter. He also visited both went he went around the world a few years ago. Although he enjoyed Australia, he raved about New Zealand.

 

[Coastie]

Keep in mind when you say summer here... its winter down under. I went to Melbourne in July last year, left Dulles International and it was 90 degress... arrived in Melbourne, it was a cool 42!!

 

[Disney Hot Mama]

Keep in mind when you say summer here... its winter down under. I went to Melbourne in July last year, left Dulles International and it was 90 degress... arrived in Melbourne, it was a cool 42!!

Wow, thanks. To be honest I never thought of that. We are limited to summer vacations as both kids are in school. I won't pull them out of school for a week simple for vacation (at least I haven't before). I may have to rethink this trip though.

Maybe I'll change it to Fiji. Anyone exchange over for Fiji? Guess I should check the weather then too.

Laurie

 

[TEK224]

for your children (visiting another country and culture; the history of booth; the climate differences, the natural wonders of each country, etc).
Somebody stop me please

I know the whole kids out of school thing can be a hot topic, so I won't say much more, but ten years ago I took my niece out of high school for a litle over 3 weeks (with her parents' and the school's permission).

We went to Hawaii (2 islands), Australia and New Zealand. It was great and she saw and learned so much that she never would have in the classroom. She still talks about that trip. She did a project for school about all 3 places, with video, photos and things she brought back with her, so her absences were considered excused.

Both countries were great. If you like active things, visit the south island of New Zealand. Queenstown was awesome. Rafting, bungee jumping, skiing are all popular things to do there.

Terri

 

[paslea_pooh]

I've taken my kids out of school plenty of times to go on family vacations. I find the work they miss (they always make up), is not a big deal in comparison to the experience they have, whether they are visiting another state or another country..... When you look at the big picture and realize how many hours, days and years they spend at school, a few days or a week or two is not substantial. You are teaching them other things, culture, respect for other countries, religion, etc..... Plus they are spending time with family which I think is the biggest lesson of all, to be able to co-exist out of your normal/comfort zone.

Our school district allows for educational trips (vacation time w/family), you should look into it or suggest it at your school district.


Good Luck in whatever you decide.

Alida

 

[Dean]

Go to TUG at www.tug2.net and ask as they will have a lot of info about timeshares there.

 

[chris1gill]

I'm pretty well versed on this topic We've been a few times and are going back for a month over Christmas break....

Anyhow, in regards to timeshares, re-think this... timeshares in Oz are nowhere near as nice as what we've come to expect here in the states, plus there is the currency conversion which means our dollars are worth more down there... for us, it is nowhere near worth it to use DVC, if anything I'll rent the points out....

Anyhow, it is true, our summer is their winter, having said that, I would not let it deter you.... If you stay North of Sydney for the majority of your trip, it will still be quite nice, Actually Brisbane North is wonderful all year long, it will not be cold. You would want to stay in Sydney for five days, so just come prepared accordingly, it can get into the 40's overnight.. Melbourne is quite South to be honest & it can be FREEZING there... I would save that for another trip.... I am not sure how the rainfall in Ayer's Rock/Alice Springs is during that timeframe.... it will be warm during the day, but quite cold at night, still a very worthwhile visit.. Additionally, if you really want to travel, fly over to Western Australia and visit Perth, it's beautiful all year as well... As for New Zealand, nice trip, but it would be too cold for my liking IMHO...

Oh, there are many places to look for discount lodging in Oz, since you are going off season, book last minute at www.wotif.com.au