Queenstown, New Zealand 2015 (part 1)

As a frequent traveller, I've tried many types of accommodation options; budget hotel, boutique hotel, guest house, private house rental, apartment, luxurious 5* hotel, even hostel (ugh, once is enough). I can’t always choose a luxury hotel but don’t want to stay in an ugly budget hotel. I'm not that type of person who prefer to suffer while sleeping and showering, as long as they can see the tourist attractions and shop. Even though I were travelling on a budget, I will never ever stay in a cheap-but-hideous budget hotel. I'll go for boutique hotels or apartments or private house rentals (airbnb) that offer something different. 

Talking about accommodation, my Queenstown's was more-than-awesome. Some people might say, for a room I will barely be in most of the day, it's a waste of money. For us, a stay in New Zealand's number one holiday destination deserves premium accommodation. My accommodation is located in an elite area with 3000 acre settlement in one of the most spectacular landscapes in the world. It combines a sustainable design approach with contemporary architecture. All day sun elevated to enjoy the absolutely awe inspiring lake & mountain views. The Remarkables mountain ranges dominate the skyline; there was still snow on the peaks when I arrived. This brand new home offers many surprises with full modern amenities. On the description, they say: expect the unexpected.

Without further due, here are pictures of the house, some of them featuring my sis in law doing her morning yoga.

open plan kitchen with modern appliances and dishwasher under the island

homemade wagyu steak by sister in law's talented  brother and a fine wine for a perfect relaxing day

room one, 1st storey that has big window with The Remarkables as the view

my room two, 2nd storey

my room has a cavity slider to living room. On the right side, I can see views of  The Remarkables 

hidden room 3, 3rd storey. Need to climb a small staircase that leads to the room

Basically, no detail has been missed. Each room is unique and offers something truly special for my holiday to Queenstown. It was very warm during winter with underfloor heating, fireplace and heat pump. Promise to self that I'm coming back! It's definitely one of the best place I've ever stayed in and worth every penny.

Melbourne Trip 2015 (part 2)

I'm dividing the Melbourne trip into two parts, assuming there'd be tons of pictures, but then I realise there's almost nothing to post as I lost my camera. YES, I LOST MY CAMERA on my last day in Queenstown with all the pictures of beautiful Melbourne and Queenstown in it. Thankfully, I went there with two kind-hearted photographers with their gigantic cameras, who're willing to take pictures of me.

Beauties at Victoria Market

The famous Max Brenner chocolate pizza

Another famous food in Melbourne, Gyutandon from Menya Ramen

Melbourne Trip 2015 (part 1)

It's been few years since the last time I visited Melbourne, so I'm so excited! The main reason of this trip is to do pre wedding photoshoot of my 4th brother and his fiancé. We stayed at a small nice house at suburb area of Melbourne, Dandenong (around 30km from the city). Anyway it's my first experience with Airbnb, and since I love to travel, I'm planning to keep on using it! If you’re unfamiliar with it, Airbnb is a place where private home owners can rent out their properties (it can be rooms, apartments, or even house) to travellers. It gives hosts a platform to earn some short term rental income and travellers the chance to enjoy the comforts of a private home. I would definitely choose Airbnb over hotel, for the sake of social benefits. It’s always good to meet new people and the host will often be able to provide you with local knowledge and information which will make your stay even more pleasant.