Day 9 June 17th 2011

Top 15



1. Rangitoto College- I had probably one of the best experiences of my life. I never expected the kids from New Zealand to be so similar to those from America. I met a lot of new friends and I doubt I will ever forget them. It is #1 because not many people get a chance to do something like this. It is something that should happen more often because it is life changing.

1. Great Barrier Reef- One of the most known places in Australia and it is obvious why. The fish and coral is impossible to copy and many people never get a chance to see it. This place made me rethink my life goals, and not man times have I been forced to do such a thing.
2. New Zealand Food- This includes BurgerFuel, L&P, and Hanghi dinners. We are on the other side of the world and had a burger place the first night. New Zealand has its own twist on how they make their burgers; they put an egg in it. It might sound disgusting, but it was one of the best burgers of my life. L&P is a carbonated beverage that is hard to live without. I feel as if I am going through withdrawal still. The hanghi dinner is unique because of the way it is prepared.
3. The Rocks, Sydney- There were so many stalls that it had an essence of Australia in every way. There were food and souvenirs in the same place. Some of the most unique items are sold here and they cannot be seen anywhere else.
4. Whaka Village- A great view into the Maori culture and lifestyle. I had no idea they had isolated villages and I can understand their culture better. Also, the views there are breathtaking.
5. Aquarium and Wildlife Preserve- many people travel to Australia because of the animals that live there: crocs, sharks, kangaroos, wallabies, and koalas. There is a walkway under the shark exhibit where you can walk and practically touch the sharks. Also you can take a picture with a koala for a low price!
6. Sunset in Rotorua- one of the most beautiful scenery I have ever seen in my life. The steam rising in the dark sky is very contrasting and one of a kind.
7. Cairns- the beach, the restaurants, and the night markets. The beach scene is really relaxing and I want to come backpacking here in college. I loved all the free time with the restaurants and I got a good outlook of Cairns.
8. Patty’s Market- a great place to go if you want souvenirs, purses, or even clothes! I was able to get everything I needed for a great price and little hassle. Even if I didn’t want to haggle, I could just head up the stairs and shop at outlets.
9. Sticky Candy- The best candy I have ever experienced in my life. My mind was literally blown when I tried this candy. The workers were interactive and friendly while they showed us how they made DIVINE lollies.
10. Duck Tour- a great way to see the sights of Rotorua while having some fun. The duck bill toys showed us how lively their city can be. The water tripe was a beautiful way to see the sights and houses in New Zealand. I was able to learn a large amount of Maori/New Zealand history.
11. Alec- The best part of a trip is a tour guide. The guide can make or break the whole time. You need a great tour guide to understand the history of the area without boring you. Alec did this perfectly, and that’s a feat for a group of teenagers from America.
12. Louging- the top of the mountain gave a great view of Rotorua, especially because it was our first time on top of a mountain this trip. Aslo, the louging was a great experience, even though I was afraid at first. I would definitely do it again.
13. Sydney Harbor- the prettiest view of the most important sights in Sydney. The sights were even better during the light show. It was amazing that we were able be in Sydney at the same time and have time in our schedule to see it.
14. Sydney Mall Area- the best place to go for any avid shopper. Heck, even people that don’t like shopping would like this place. Stores of every variety and prices of every range are available. I wish we had more time there because I saw a lot of cute stores that I probably never will be able to go back to. I did get to go by for 1 minutes and even in that time I was able to get a full outfit!