Thursday 22 May 2014

Windy Wellington




Everyone we had met on our travels so far had told us about the wonder that is Wellington, but it's not until you go there for yourself do you realise just how much this quirky city has got going on.


If you have a passion for vintage clothing and excellent food - this is definitely the city to be in. One of the main streets in Wellington, Cuba Street, is filled with vintage boutiques, op shops,unique coffee shops and bustling restaurants - all of which make a fantabulous combination.

Of all the places we have travelled through so far in New Zealand, this is the place that both of us said we would love to live. We have enjoyed living near the beach in small towns, but for us, Wellington is just everything you want out of a home. Amazing eateries, a vast range of clothing stores ( vintage and designer), lots of activities ( beaches are close by, museums etc) and a city feeling without being overwhelming.

The night life was equally as good, if not better, as what the day had to offer, with lots of cool bars and late night cafes. There seemed to be a rather 'hipster' scene going on in some places, but there are places to suit everyone - hipster or not.

 One of the highlights for us was the Friday night market which was situated on a narrow street just off Cuba Street. The smell from all of the markets was amazing - jerk chicken, pad thai, greek gyros, paella, doughnuts and crepes ( just to name a few.) All of the restaurants along the street stay open late too and have chairs outside for you to enjoy a meal whilst listening to live music. Once again, there was something to suit everyones taste buds. Other markets included handmade jewellery and soaps and second hands books.

WE LOVE WELLINGTON!





What to do: Oriental Bay - The words 'man made beach' may bring negative connotations, but Oriental Bay is a delightful place to walk or cycle along, and enjoy a light lunch and swim in the sea whilst still being just a few minutes away from the city centre. FREE

                     Te Papa Museum - Museums in the UK are hard to live up ( National History Museum in London to name just one), but Te Papa was pretty darn awesome. The highlight for us was the GIGANTIC colossal squid which they have on display - the only one in the world. FREE

                     Parliament - If you're a little geeky, or have an interest in politics, a tour of the parliament is a must do. It last one hour, and you get to walk around the parliament library, learn about the government, it's parties and it's history and you even get to go inside the actual room where they debate! Tours depart on the hour. FREE

                    Cable Car - A pleasant ride to the botanical gardens (which are beautiful) with great views of Wellington. $7pp return.

Where to eat & drink: Fidels Cafe on Cuba Street, Expressoholic on Cuba Street, Sweet Mothers Kitchen ( delicious curly fries), Havanas Bar

Where to stay: Worldwide Backpackers(BBH) ; Free wifi, free breakfast, clean rooms & facilities and just a five minute walk to Cuba Street. 

And if you're planning on getting your hair done, head to Willis York Salon. The decoration was splendid - chandeliers, copious amounts of Vogue and excellent music.

T2S
x

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