Queenstown is a destination for travelers from all over the world. When you are walking in the downtown area, you hear many different languages. It is BUSY! Although there are lots of backpackers drooling at the chance to complete their "bucket list" of "adrenalin-rushing" activities like Zip-lining, Bungy Jumping, Sky Diving, Shotover Jet Boating, Lugeing down the hill, Rafting the Big River, etc. etc, there are just as many people our age too, simply enjoying the beauty of the place. It's an active place with marvelous restaurants and wonderful views. You are only minutes away from some of the best and most beautiful nature spots on earth. It's an easy stroll to get away from the shopping and people.
Our hotel/apartment in Queenstown is located right across the street from Lake Wakatipu. We have an "in your face" view of the lake and the mountains. Even better, we are away from the craziness of downtown Queenstown.
While Julie was off taking the lift to the top of the mountain and zipping down the Luge, we hiked a few min. from town and were completely unaware of anything except the exceptional views of the lake and the quietness of the forest. Having a town situated on a lake that is surrounded by drop-dead mountains such as The Remarkables is wonderful. It's no wonder that tourists travel far and wide to come here. The Southern Lakes and Fiordland, wineries and wildlife and many interesting places to tramp are close by. Let the adventure begin!
Yesterday Julie took a day trip by bus to Fiordland and visited Doubtful Sound. She has a few more days in NZ before she flies back to MI. Tomorrow we'll all get our adrenalin pumped up with a Shotover Jet boat ride on the Dart River. Bob and I have rented a car starting next week and will visit Fiordland and then go south to see some places we've never been to.
