Queenstown is a highlight on the world tourism map not only because of its picturesque beauty, but also because it attracts visitors from all over the world with countless interesting activities, whether you are looking for a relaxing vacation or a completely new travel experience.
Nearly 2 hours flight from Auckland - the largest city of New Zealand, Queenstown appeared before my eyes through the plane window with endless snow-capped mountains, beautiful houses nestled on the mountainside and equally magical and mysterious in the cold winter days. During the journey of only nearly 10 km from the airport to the town center, my heart skipped a beat countless times because the majestic mountain scenery gradually opened up before my eyes. Smiling with satisfaction at other tourists, I realized that Queenstown is the paradise that travelers like me are looking for.
Arriving at the town center just as it was getting dark, I took the opportunity to stroll through a few ancient streets while waiting for my travel companion. Ms. Tram, an international student living in Dunedine, a city more than 3 hours drive from Queenstown, who has had the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Queenstown in all four seasons of the year, was very willing to be my “tour guide” here.
The first place Ms. Tram took me to was Saigon Kingdom restaurant, located right in the heart of the "Queen" land. Enjoying the taste of Vietnamese food after a long time wandering around, we - young people with endless adventurous hearts, shared countless happy and sad stories in foreign lands. On the way back to the motel, we did not forget to reward ourselves with a rich ice cream at Patagonia Chocolates, famous for its recipe that blends traditional Italian ice cream with the typical flavors of South America. Enjoying my favorite Hazelnut ice cream, in the weather of a few degrees Celsius in the middle of the vast sky and earth, what I felt most clearly was the overwhelming happiness of being able to live, to travel and to experience.
With no pre-arranged itinerary, we decided to spend time wandering around the town’s streets, immersing ourselves in the romantic scenery that Queenstown has to offer everyone. From the time-stained tiled streets, to the winding mountain passes, or the small paths leading to the shores of Lake Wakatipu surrounded by snow-capped mountains. From the harbor right in the center of town, the seagulls spread their wings against the deep blue sky in the brilliant afternoon sun, painting a scene that perhaps only in Queenstown can people fully enjoy every moment like that.
It would be a mistake if you did not add games that challenge your courage to your “bucket list” when coming to Queenstown, which is known as the capital of adventure games. Queenstown satisfies all the passions of young people for challenges such as sky diving, which gives you the feeling of jumping out of a plane at a height of thousands of meters, or immersing yourself in a rushing waterfall via a super-speed jet boat. After being encouraged by my companion, I decided to bet my courage on Bungy Jump, simply because Queenstown is the first place to put this game into commercial operation. Honestly, when I stood in the middle of a deep mountain with no bottom in sight, I briefly regretted why I did this “terrible” thing. But believe me, that feeling only lasts a few seconds - right after letting yourself fall freely, the adrenaline begins to fill your veins, at that time, don’t forget to scream loudly because you have just overcome your own fear!
If the thrill rides aren’t enough to satisfy your thirst for adventure, take a flight over hundreds of towering snow-capped peaks to Milford Sound, a veritable paradise surrounded by rugged mountains, pristine forests and majestic waterfalls. No matter how you get to Milford Sound, the journey will be unforgettable, thanks to the wild, magical beauty that the Maori have preserved for those who are passionate about exploring.
If food is a burning passion in you, Fergburger is definitely a place you cannot miss. Don't be discouraged by the long line of people lining up all the way down the street, because you are about to enjoy the best burger in the world. I believe Ferburger will change the concept of a delicious burger in you. The special thing is that the shop is open from 8am to 3am the next day, certainly meeting the expectations of all diners.
One of the best things about traveling in Queenstown in particular and New Zealand in general is the hospitality and enthusiasm of the Kiwi people along with the extremely professional travel services. You can easily find all the necessary travel information provided by the official websites of the places you are planning to visit as well as on all the streets. Almost every travel agency in Queenstown is very professional, the prices are always clearly and transparently published with the same good quality. You just need to choose an agency that you feel satisfied with, they will definitely bring you wonderful experiences that you will never forget.
Queenstown may not be the most perfect tourist destination you will ever have. But I believe that once you have walked through the peaceful streets, watched the mountains rising against the deep blue sky, or the calm lake reflecting the wind-swept sails, you will always find a reason to come back, to let your soul follow the seagulls, full of freedom and happiness.
