Mellow and Beautiful

The South Island of New Zealand may appear insignificant on a globe for those who can find it at all,” Karen Baker writes for Oregon Live. “But the island boasts natural grandeur that leaves indelible memories — and affords plentiful opportunities for outdoor adventure. We saw misty rainbows fading in and out of view as clouds lifted and fell like curtains, incandescent rain forests painted in shades of green, seals cavorting with kayaks in pristine bays; swing bridges, sparkling beaches and intensely blue rivers of ice. Our trip commemorated a friend’s 6th birthday. He chose New Zealand because of what he described as its ‘mellowness and beauty’ and potential for physical activity, good food and wine, and lessons in native culture and history.”