Australia / New Zealand

Happy New Year! It has been a happy new year for me indeed. This blog has been neglected due to my sabbatical. I've spent the past three weeks in Australia and New Zealand. After recovering from jet lag and finally floating above the pile of work on my desk I'm ready to share my adventures... 

We rung in the new year in Sydney. I've never seen so many people together celebrating! An estimated 2.5 million people surrounded the harbor along with us and to watch the fireworks.

Of course we had to experience seeing a show at the Opera House. We saw the Opera - La Boheme.

We had high tea at The Tea Room in the Queen Victoria Building. It was over 100 degrees that day and I was dying in my dress which led me to think... how does Kate Middleton do it? ;)

We drove on the opposite side of the road two hours out of Sydney to Hunter Valley for some wine tasting.

We had a romantic picnic at the Botanical Garden which had an amazing view of the harbor and Opera House. Our picnic basket consisted of Laduree's macaroons and they were delish!!

We didn't see any kangaroos or koalas on our way to wine country therefore we decided to visit the zoo for a guaranteed appearance. We also sunbathed on Bondi Beach and I swear this is were they shot 'Where's Waldo?' Would you say??

Our last week was spent in Auckland. One of my favorite photos from our entire trip is this one of me swinging under a tree in the vineyards at Goldie Room - the first winery on Waiheke Island.

When I talk to family or friends about my trip, they often ask what is the one big thing that tops my list. We did so much in three weeks; however, the highlight of my trip was being able to sleep in, waking up to a nice cup of coffee with a delicious brunch and sitting across from my favorite person planning what we'll be doing that day. There's a total peace and happiness that this level of freedom brings... and for the new year I wish this for you. Happy New Year. xo