Home in Time for Tea

New Zealand's Northland   always feels like a second home. I've been lucky enough that my childhood has been fairly kiwi-heavy because of family, so I enjoy passing on what this has given me, to the littlest one. I know I'd be a slightly different person without a kiwi-influenced childhood.  On this trip, we spent most of our time with various combinations of family members on beaches, boats, in water, volcanic mud or beautiful gardens. Some of our trip's highlights were possible because of family, although they are still relevant to those interested in things to do on New Zealand's North Island. Our visit was an Easter one, so autumn colours peppered the otherwise green sub-tropical hilly landscape . It felt strange to leave our UK spring and have little Klowski looking for chocolate eggs in autumnal gardens without daffodils, but the autumn sunshine was still strong and the days warm . An advantage over the cold wind blustering our homeland...

For a tiny island, there is great deal of things to see and do in Barbados. With its fascinating plantation history, beautiful tropical gardens, world-class beaches and food, and great natural attractions. There's something here for literally every visitor. The island, whilst being heavily touristed, has a very tangible culture which coexists harmoniously with tourists. The island makes a great, safe and fascinating holiday destination, attracting a generally affluent and child-friendly type of tourism. Yellow Bird Hotel & St Lawrence Gap Our experience on this island of absolute paradise was made all the more perfect by our choice of hotel. As well as being right in front of the loveliest little beach, the Yellow Bird Hotel at St Lawrence Gap is immaculate, stylish, friendly, and in a convenient location. The hotel was within a few steps of some of the best restaurants around, and what a lot of choice there was (see below).  The beach outside the Yellow...