When you think of Queensland Australia, typically the first thing to come to mind is the beach, Great Barrier Reef or even the Daintree Rainforest. However, did you know that you can get an authentic Aussie outback experience here too? Nestled in the shadow of Ngarrabullgan, an impressive tabletop mountain ten times the size of Read More…
Outdoor Adventure Category Archives
What is it like to travel in New Zealand now?
Hi everyone. It’s Shannon, and I have just returned from a trip to New Zealand. While travel has not returned to exactly the same as before COVID, it is easy and very safe to travel to New Zealand. The weather was stunning. Consider November for your trip. Here are some tips: Immigration/Customs. New Zealand has Read More…
Costa Rica, it should be on your bucket list
Hi everyone, it’s Shannon. Recently I had a chance to travel to Costa Rica for two weeks. Costa Rica is a newer destination for Down Under Endeavours, and it will not disappoint! Costa Rica is a wonderfully safe country with multiple ecosystems to explore. Here are some top points you should know: With a two-week Read More…
Top 5 Reasons to visit Blackberry Mountain on your next holiday
After returning from our first family holiday at Blackberry Mountain, I can say I feel totally refreshed. And here’s why: 5. Location, location, location Blackberry is well located within close proximity to the East Coast, Midwest, or South. An easy 1.5-hour Chicago to Knoxville flight plus a 40-minute drive into the mountains, and you have Read More…
Why Iceland is a great place to travel to now
I was recently reminiscing about my trip to Iceland and thought I would tell you a bit more about it. I would say that Iceland is very comparable to New Zealand in the types of activities that are available. Both are worth a visit but read below for the most important differences between the two. Read More…
Traveling to Mexico during a pandemic
Hi everyone! It’s Shannon. I am happy to report that I just returned from my first trip to Mexico. I can’t believe it took me this long to visit our neighboring country, but I am so glad that I had the chance to experience travel during the height of the pandemic. This trip was a Read More…
Traveling on Election Day
Election Day is just around the corner! Voting is your chance to have some control over what happens to your family and community. As citizens, it is our right to weigh in on the issues that affect our country and the people who lead it. Can you still register to vote? Voter registration deadlines are Read More…
What does a post-quarantine flight look like?
When you work in the travel industry, hopping on a plane, train, vehicle, or boat is a regular occurrence. So naturally, spending three months at home (and canceling a 2.5-week trip to Australia) was a rare occurrence. Albeit, I enjoyed my time with the dogs, and the house projects have come along quite nicely; it Read More…
Glacier National Park – Close to home, natural beauty
Glacier National Park is one of North America’s most beautiful protected spaces featuring glacial moraines, hanging valleys, azure blue alpine lakes, and rugged mountain peaks. Known for its awe-inspiring views and epic hiking opportunities, this incredible locale is a non-stop Instagram dream! You will also have plenty of opportunity to spot wildlife on your visit, Read More…
Badlands National Park – Close By, Stunning Landscapes
As we all search for potential travel destinations a bit closer to home over the next several months, I’m reminded of how many unique regions we have in our own country. I visited Badlands National Park last year and was blown away by a landscape that resembled the surface of the moon! Rugged and remote, Read More…
Why Amangiri is the escape you need in 2020
In a wild and rock-carved Utah landscape, Amangiri Hotel is a sandstone hideaway at the heart of Navajo country – not the place you’d expect to find an incredible spa, excellent restaurant, and total indulgence. The Location:It is worth noting that this hotel is not easy to get to; the quickest way is a 4-hour Read More…
Five Days in the Grand Canyon and Zion National Park
I set out for Zion by way of Vegas for a getaway weekend in the great outdoors with a loose itinerary. I knew what I wanted to accomplish, but I could deviate from the plan at any time. It was one of my favorite trips to date simply because I’ve grown to love being in Read More…
My favorite things in New Zealand
Arthur’s Pass Wilderness Lodge has long been a client favorite, and on my most recent trip to New Zealand, I finally was able to experience it for myself. And it didn’t disappoint! Located near the beautiful Arthur’s Pass National Park, the lodge provides a quintessential Kiwi farm experience within the stunning backdrop of New Zealand’s Read More…
How to plan an accessible dream vacation?
Travel can be about seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural insight, or just to disconnect from your daily life. No matter the reason you travel, travel should be accessible to everyone, and it is no secret that planning a trip can be an overwhelming task to handle on your own. It can be an even more daunting Read More…
What will a trip look like post COVID-19?
In the span of two months, most people’s lives have been turned topsy-turvy. It seems that with each day, we hear of new challenges that we must conquer. And yet each day, hopeful news materializes that we are advancing in the right direction and will come out on top. Albeit with time. We at Down Read More…
Where to Travel in 2020: 10 Bucket List Destinations for the New Year
As the new year approaches, so does the possibility for fresh starts, exciting goals, and new adventures. Whether you have the urge to explore a new city, relax on a white sand beach, reset from the hustle of every day, or reconnect with your true self, 2020 is your year! We’ve curated some inspiration to Read More…
Pure Pods New Zealand: Isolation on the Banks Peninsula
Pure Pods are one of New Zealand’s hot new travel trends. If you want to drop entirely off the grid for a few days and truly immerse yourself in some of New Zealand’s spectacular wilderness, the Pure Pod experience might be perfect for you! Located in remote wilderness regions, the PurePods have gorgeous views of Read More…
Milford Sound Cruise vs Helicopter: How to Explore New Zealand’s Fiordlands
Milford Sound is a must-visit in New Zealand, but there are multiple ways to see the stunning scenery of the region. The Milford Sound cruise vs. helicopter tour offers two very different experiences. On my recent trip to New Zealand, I was able to enjoy both experiences; I did the bus and nature cruise day Read More…
Adventures & Adrenaline on New Zealand’s North Island
New Zealand is an amazing country for adventurous travelers! The team at Down Under Endeavours loves to experience all that New Zealand has to offer. If you are looking for an adventure-packed vacation, New Zealand’s North Island is an amazing destination! Top adventures on New Zealand’s North Island: Active Volcanoes Heli-hiking on White Island, an Read More…
Wellington Travel Guide: The Coolest Little Capital
Wellington, New Zealand, was deemed “The Coolest Little Capital” by Lonely Planet, and it certainly lives up to the name! Located on the North Island of New Zealand, Wellington is filled with outdoor adventure, arts and culture, delicious cuisine, and quirky festivals. The city is famous for its vibrant creative culture fueled by great food, Read More…
Luxury Family Travel in New Zealand: 5 Best Resorts for Families
Beautiful New Zealand is the perfect destination for luxury family travel! Abundant with jaw-dropping natural beauty, incredible outdoor activities, and terrific wines, New Zealand is perfect for adrenaline junkies, foodies, and a wide range of travelers in between. You’ll be sure to find activities for the whole family to enjoy and have the experience of Read More…