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RURU TOUR

AUCKLAND

CHRISTCHURCH

20 Days

Quality dorms

5

Your adventure starts… with glowworm caves in Waitomo, geothermal vibes in Rotorua, a traditional hāngi, alpine hikes in Aoraki/Mt Cook, and a jaw-dropping Milford Sound cruise. Pack your bags. Immediately.

Travellers' Choice Award 2026

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Testimonial Block

Testimonial Block
NEW ZEALAND ODYSSEY

I couldn’t have wished for better

I had an incredible experience during my 19-day tour through New Zealand. In such a short amount of time, I was able to see so many amazing and different places - it was exactly what I wanted from this trip.

Johann U

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
FIRE & ICE

Nice experience

I had an incredible experience during my 19-day tour through New Zealand. In such a short amount of time, I was able to see so many amazing and different places - it was exactly what I wanted from this trip.

Johann U

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
ALPINE ADVENTURE

Beautiful Experience at Kaka

I booked the Kaka tour at a very short notice. The Dutch company was already very helpfull and the app with all the destinations + activities was very helpfull as well. But Whaea was our guide and she was the best! Like someone else wrote in her review: “I appreciated her expert driving, knowledge of New Zealand history and Maori culture, and her desire to ensure that we had a great experience”.

Jennifer B

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
DEEP SOUTH

Great experience with Leon

Really good itinerary in a country with wondrous scenery and a range of hikes. The tour had pleasantly balanced inclusions. Having Mount Cook included was a definite highlight, and one of the main reasons for picking the operator.

NJR 8

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
NEW ZEALAND ODYSSEY

Amazing North to South

This was my first time on a long organised tour and am happy to say that it exceeded my expectations. The tour was extremely well organised and when the itinerary had to change due to bad weather, alternative options for activities were arranged.

Henna

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
NEW ZEALAND ODYSSEY

I couldn’t have wished for better

I had an incredible experience during my 19-day tour through New Zealand. In such a short amount of time, I was able to see so many amazing and different places - it was exactly what I wanted from this trip.

Johann U

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
FIRE & ICE

Nice experience

I had an incredible experience during my 19-day tour through New Zealand. In such a short amount of time, I was able to see so many amazing and different places - it was exactly what I wanted from this trip.

Johann U

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
ALPINE ADVENTURE

Beautiful Experience at Kaka

I booked the Kaka tour at a very short notice. The Dutch company was already very helpfull and the app with all the destinations + activities was very helpfull as well. But Whaea was our guide and she was the best! Like someone else wrote in her review: “I appreciated her expert driving, knowledge of New Zealand history and Maori culture, and her desire to ensure that we had a great experience”.

Jennifer B

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
DEEP SOUTH

Great experience with Leon

Really good itinerary in a country with wondrous scenery and a range of hikes. The tour had pleasantly balanced inclusions. Having Mount Cook included was a definite highlight, and one of the main reasons for picking the operator.

NJR 8

Go to trip →
Testimonial Block
NEW ZEALAND ODYSSEY

Amazing North to South

This was my first time on a long organised tour and am happy to say that it exceeded my expectations. The tour was extremely well organised and when the itinerary had to change due to bad weather, alternative options for activities were arranged.

Henna

Go to trip →

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Tick off your NZ bucket-list with one Stray Select Tour 🚌🇳🇿 1. Unearth a hāngī at Kohutapu Lodge...

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Tick off your NZ bucket-list with one Stray Adventure Tour 🚌🇳🇿 1. Enjoy the magic of Hobbiton �...

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Yes, normal life is calling... but so is New Zealand 🚌 🇳🇿 Swipe through and tell us which "yes"...

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We LOVE seeing our tours through your lens 🤩 Enjoy this epic 60 second summary of our Kea Adventu...

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Come touch grass with us? 🚌 🍃 🧡 straytravel.com 🌿 #StrayTravel #NewZealand #SoloTravel #NZTra...

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What if we just: did New Zealand the Stray way 🚌🌿 #StrayTravel #NewZealand #NZTravel #TravelReel...

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The right time doesn't exist. The right crew does 🇳🇿 Come to New Zealand and meet mates for life...

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Yep, our buses actually stop here 🚌✨ 📍Hobbiton, Matamata - one of the most iconic stops on our NZ...

stray.travel28 May 2026

Millennials vs Gen Z on a Stray tour 🚐😅 Which one are you? 👀 Both are essential to the group dy...

stray.travel25 May 2026

Tomorrow is Monday, but I don’t care becaaaause… …I’m in New Zealand 🇳🇿🚐 Waterfalls, mountain v...

stray.travel24 May 2026

🚐 Meet Leon: one of the legends behind the Stray experience 🧡 Originally from Auckland, Leon sta...

stray.travel13 May 2026

The feeling of experiencing your dream NZ trip IRL 🌼🌄⛰️🌊✨🌀🦋 "Hey! Just want to say that I had...

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Another week, another round of reviews that make us smile 🥹🧡 The places are incredible… but it’s ...

stray.travel07 May 2026

This is your sign to book the trip ✈️🇳🇿 Being on the road in New Zealand reminds you how differen...

stray.travel06 May 2026

Ever tried choosing between the best of New Zealand? Yeah… it’s impossible 😅 Tell us your picks 👇...

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Work hits different when your reviews look like this 🥹✨ Huge thanks to the legends who took the ti...

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Say YES to New Zealand 🇳🇿 Take 20% off all our award-winning NZ tours departing before Sept 30 - ...

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with Select Tours

From $From $6,895

$0000 PER DAY

Limited spots! Secure yours with a $200 deposit

Get 20% off all New Zealand tours*

For departures before 30 Sept 2026.

$From $6,895 NZD

Per person

$0000 NZD

Per person/per day

SELECT DEPARTURE DATE

Guaranteed departures available

SELECT ROOM TYPE
PAYMENT OPTIONS

Confirm your seat now and pay the rest in flexible, interest-free installments

One of our most loved tours, according to you!
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REVIEWS

TOUR SNAPSHOT

Named after the native ruru (morepork owl), this journey takes you through iconic landscapes - from the Tongariro Crossing and Lake Tarawera to fjords, rainforests, and alpine peaks. Soak in geothermal hot springs, explore glowworm caves and waterfalls, and enjoy a traditional Māori hāngī feast. Head south for Queenstown adventure, with a finale under the stars in Tekapo. Good luck going back to normal life after this.

North + South Islands
Quality dorms
Expert local guide
Most breakfasts + some dinners
15+ activities and experiences
Private Stray coach


BUCKET-LIST HIGHLIGHTS

View full itinerary
Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Waitomo Glowworm Caves

Underground glowworm experience

WHAT'S INCLUDED

Meals

17 breakfasts, 5 dinners and 1 lunch included - a mix of cooked, continental keep you fuelled. Check the itinerary for the full breakdown.

Private Coach Transport

Kick back, soak up the scenery and let someone else do the driving. Your private, air-conditioned Stray coach handles the rest.

Stray Expert Guide

Kick back, soak up the scenery and let someone else do the driving. Your private, air-conditioned Stray coach handles the rest.

Small Group

Max 24 travellers per coach. Most Select Tour adventurers are aged between 20–50, but there's no upper limit - it's all about attitude, not age!

ACCOMDATION

High-quality twin share or private rooms are included. You'll stay in comfy 3-4 star hotels for most of nights and high country farm or scenic lodges close to waterfront or national park in our unique destinations. Hotel rooms are with ensuite, while shared facilities are at the lodges.

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Get 20% off all New Zealand tours*

For departures before 30 Sept 2026.

$From $6,895 NZD

Per person

$0000 NZD

Per person/per day

SELECT DEPARTURE DATE

Guaranteed departures available

SELECT ROOM TYPE
PAYMENT OPTIONS

Confirm your seat now and pay the rest in flexible, interest-free installments

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Full Itinerary

Download Itinerary

Day 1 - Auckland | Auckland, North Island

Welcome to Aotearoa! Your adventure begins in Auckland, the City of Sails. After settling in, take a stroll along the Viaduct Harbour and soak up the waterfront vibes.

  • Rest:Staying at Hotel Grand Auckland or similar

  • Eat:Welcome dinner included

  • Included:Harbour walk, welcome briefing

  • Optional (paid):Sky Tower, Waiheke Island ferry

  • Free:Viaduct Harbour, Albert Park

Auckland skyline
Auckland harbour
Sky Tower Auckland
Waiheke Island
Viaduct Harbour

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Summer Competition

$100 off and a chance to win your trip back

Road trips, new mates, epic scenery and stories you'll be telling for years. For a limited time, save $100 on selected New Zealand tours.

Tick tock. Travel. Win.

26Days
08Hours
45Minutes
13Seconds
Enter to win!
Ends 00 Month

Enter to win!

Book any New Zealand tour and save $100 with code NZ100. Plus, share your favourite moment from the road with #NZ100 and you could win the cost of your trip back.

Valid on New bookings only.
Travel period: Departures before 00 Month 2026

This is a title for the offer

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt laborum.Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate.

Terms & Conditions

  • Offer applies to new bookings only and can't be combined with other promo codes.
  • Valid on New Zealand tours departing before 00 Month 2026.
  • Discount applied with code NZ100 at checkout.
  • Competition entry is subject to standard terms.

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Tick off your NZ bucket-list with one Stray Select Tour 🚌🇳🇿 1. Unearth a hāngī at Kohutapu Lodge...

stray.travel27 August 2026

Tick off your NZ bucket-list with one Stray Adventure Tour 🚌🇳🇿 1. Enjoy the magic of Hobbiton �...

stray.travel26 August 2026

Yes, normal life is calling... but so is New Zealand 🚌 🇳🇿 Swipe through and tell us which "yes"...

stray.travel05 August 2026

We LOVE seeing our tours through your lens 🤩 Enjoy this epic 60 second summary of our Kea Adventu...

stray.travel28 July 2026

Come touch grass with us? 🚌 🍃 🧡 straytravel.com 🌿 #StrayTravel #NewZealand #SoloTravel #NZTra...

stray.travel21 July 2026

What if we just: did New Zealand the Stray way 🚌🌿 #StrayTravel #NewZealand #NZTravel #TravelReel...

stray.travel14 July 2026

The right time doesn't exist. The right crew does 🇳🇿 Come to New Zealand and meet mates for life...

stray.travel03 July 2026

Yep, our buses actually stop here 🚌✨ 📍Hobbiton, Matamata - one of the most iconic stops on our NZ...

stray.travel28 May 2026

Millennials vs Gen Z on a Stray tour 🚐😅 Which one are you? 👀 Both are essential to the group dy...

stray.travel25 May 2026

Tomorrow is Monday, but I don’t care becaaaause… …I’m in New Zealand 🇳🇿🚐 Waterfalls, mountain v...

stray.travel24 May 2026

🚐 Meet Leon: one of the legends behind the Stray experience 🧡 Originally from Auckland, Leon sta...

stray.travel13 May 2026

The feeling of experiencing your dream NZ trip IRL 🌼🌄⛰️🌊✨🌀🦋 "Hey! Just want to say that I had...

stray.travel10 May 2026

Another week, another round of reviews that make us smile 🥹🧡 The places are incredible… but it’s ...

stray.travel07 May 2026

This is your sign to book the trip ✈️🇳🇿 Being on the road in New Zealand reminds you how differen...

stray.travel06 May 2026

Ever tried choosing between the best of New Zealand? Yeah… it’s impossible 😅 Tell us your picks 👇...

stray.travel05 May 2026

Work hits different when your reviews look like this 🥹✨ Huge thanks to the legends who took the ti...

stray.travel30 April 2026

Say YES to New Zealand 🇳🇿 Take 20% off all our award-winning NZ tours departing before Sept 30 - ...

stray.travel23 April 2026

Soaring through the treetops of ancient native forest with @rotoruacanopytours 🍃 this is one of tho...

stray.travel21 April 2026

This is our why 🥰 This could be you 🥹 🍃 #StrayWay #NZRoadTrip #NZMustDo #NewZealandAdventure #K...

stray.travel17 April 2026

One of the bucket list activities you can do on a Stray tour is the @shotoverjetnz 🚤💨😎 Combinin...

stray.travel13 April 2026

Explore map block

Summer Competition

$100 off and a chance to win your trip back

Road trips, new mates, epic scenery and stories you'll be telling for years. For a limited time, save $100 on selected New Zealand tours.

Tick tock. Travel. Win.

26Days
08Hours
45Minutes
13Seconds
Enter to win!
Ends 00 Month

Enter to win!

Book any New Zealand tour and save $100 with code NZ100. Plus, share your favourite moment from the road with #NZ100 and you could win the cost of your trip back.

Valid on New bookings only.
Travel period: Departures before 00 Month 2026

This is a title for the offer

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa.

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipiscing elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua. Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate velit esse cillum dolore eu fugiat nulla pariatur. Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt laborum.Duis aute irure dolor in reprehenderit in voluptate.

Terms & Conditions

  • Offer applies to new bookings only and can't be combined with other promo codes.
  • Valid on New Zealand tours departing before 00 Month 2026.
  • Discount applied with code NZ100 at checkout.
  • Competition entry is subject to standard terms.

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Categories

Travel Info: How Stray Works
Your Stray Trip

01 September 2026

Travel Info: How Stray Works

Stray trips are built so the logistics disappear: private transport, hand-picked places to stay, activities booked as you go and a crew who handle the details. This page covers how it all works, from the seats to the payments. Stray is more than a bus. Depending on the trip you'll travel by private coach, train, boat and even tuk tuk, and because our vehicles are private, we go where the big coaches don't and stop when there's a reason to: bathroom breaks, meals, viewpoints and spontaneous photo stops included.

Travel Info: How Stray Works
Your Stray Trip

01 September 2026

Travel Info: How Stray Works

Stray trips are built so the logistics disappear: private transport, hand-picked places to stay, activities booked as you go and a crew who handle the details. This page covers how it all works, from the seats to the payments. Stray is more than a bus. Depending on the trip you'll travel by private coach, train, boat and even tuk tuk, and because our vehicles are private, we go where the big coaches don't and stop when there's a reason to: bathroom breaks, meals, viewpoints and spontaneous photo stops included....

Read More
Work & Travel in New Zealand: The Working Holiday Guide
New Zealand

01 September 2026

Work & Travel in New Zealand: The Working Holiday Guide

New Zealand is one of the world's great working holiday destinations, and not just because the scenery makes every day off feel like a highlight reel. Seasonal and working holiday jobs are generally easy to find, the volunteering scene is world-class, and the whole country is compact enough to explore before you decide where to settle for a season. This guide covers the three things every working traveller needs sorted: the visa, the job, and the plan....

Read More
Fiordland & the Deep South: The Complete Guide
New Zealand

01 September 2026

Fiordland & the Deep South: The Complete Guide

The bottom of New Zealand saves the biggest drama for last. Fiordland is a world of sheer granite walls, rainforest and thousand-metre waterfalls, crowned by Milford Sound, the place Rudyard Kipling reputedly called the eighth wonder of the world. And beyond the mainland's southern tip, across Foveaux Strait, lies Stewart Island: a glimpse of what New Zealand looked like before people arrived, where the roads run out after 20 kilometres and the kiwi roam in daylight. Here's the full guide to going deep south....

Read More
Lake Tekapo & Aoraki Mount Cook: The Complete Guide
New Zealand

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Lake Tekapo & Aoraki Mount Cook: The Complete Guide

Mackenzie Country is where the South Island goes big: a high, wide basin of impossibly turquoise lakes, golden tussock and the tallest mountains in New Zealand, all under some of the clearest, darkest night skies on the planet. Two stops anchor it. Lake Tekapo, a tiny lakeside town with hot pools and a hilltop observatory, and Aoraki Mount Cook, the 3,724-metre giant at the head of the valley. Here's how to make the most of both....

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Wānaka: The Complete Guide
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Wānaka: The Complete Guide

Wānaka is Queenstown's chilled-out little brother: a charming mountain town of around 8,000 people on the shore of one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, with all of the adventure and none of the queues. Summer means lake days and big hikes; winter turns it into the gateway to Treble Cone and Mt Aspiring National Park. It's also home to the most photographed tree in New Zealand, a maze that's been confusing people since 1973, and a skydive with Mt Cook on the horizon. Here's the full guide....

Read More
Queenstown: The Complete Guide
New Zealand

01 September 2026

Queenstown: The Complete Guide

Queenstown didn't ask to be called the adventure capital of the world; it earned it. This alpine town of 28,000 on the shore of Lake Wakatipu invented commercial bungy jumping, perfected the jet boat, and stacked more adrenaline per square kilometre than anywhere on the planet, all framed by the Remarkables mountain range and a healthy amount of Lord of the Rings scenery. And when the adrenaline runs out, the town keeps going: legendary burgers, $5 beers, ice bars and a nightlife that outperforms cities ten times its size. Here's the full rundown....

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The West Coast & Glaciers: The Complete Guide
New Zealand

01 September 2026

The West Coast & Glaciers: The Complete Guide

The West Coast is the South Island at its wildest: a long, narrow strip of rugged coastline and rainforest squeezed between the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps, where just 33,000 people share the space with fur seals, rare kiwi and two of the most accessible glaciers on earth. This is the stretch of the trip where the scenery does the talking. Here's everything worth stopping for, from the seal colonies of Cape Foulwind to the ice caves of Franz Josef and the skydive over Fox....

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Christchurch & Kaikōura: The Complete Guide
New Zealand

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Christchurch & Kaikōura: The Complete Guide

The east coast of the South Island pairs two places that couldn't be more different, or work better together. Christchurch, the Garden City, has rebuilt itself into one of New Zealand's most interesting urban stories: street art, laneway bars and a food scene born from reinvention. Two and a half hours north, tiny Kaikōura sits between mountains and a deep ocean trench that brings giant sperm whales within sight of shore all year round. Here's how to do them both properly....

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Nelson, Abel Tasman & Marlborough: The Complete Guide
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The top of the South Island is where New Zealand turns the brightness up. This is the sunniest corner of the country: golden beaches, turquoise water, world-famous sauvignon blanc and the most beautiful of New Zealand's Great Walks, all packed into one compact region. Most travellers arrive by ferry into Picton, wind through Nelson, and end up barefoot in Marahau at the edge of Abel Tasman National Park. Here's everything worth doing along the way....

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Travel Info: How Stray Works
YOUR STRAY TRIP

01 September 2026

Travel Info: How Stray Works

Stray trips are built so the logistics disappear: private transport, hand-picked places to stay, activities booked as you go and a crew who handle the details. This page covers how it all works, from the seats to the payments. Stray is more than a bus. Depending on the trip you'll travel by private coach, train, boat and even tuk tuk, and because our vehicles are private, we go where the big coaches don't and stop when there's a reason to: bathroom breaks, meals, viewpoints and spontaneous photo stops included....

Read More
Work & Travel in New Zealand: The Working Holiday Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Work & Travel in New Zealand: The Working Holiday Guide

New Zealand is one of the world's great working holiday destinations, and not just because the scenery makes every day off feel like a highlight reel. Seasonal and working holiday jobs are generally easy to find, the volunteering scene is world-class, and the whole country is compact enough to explore before you decide where to settle for a season. This guide covers the three things every working traveller needs sorted: the visa, the job, and the plan....

Read More
Fiordland & the Deep South: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Fiordland & the Deep South: The Complete Guide

The bottom of New Zealand saves the biggest drama for last. Fiordland is a world of sheer granite walls, rainforest and thousand-metre waterfalls, crowned by Milford Sound, the place Rudyard Kipling reputedly called the eighth wonder of the world. And beyond the mainland's southern tip, across Foveaux Strait, lies Stewart Island: a glimpse of what New Zealand looked like before people arrived, where the roads run out after 20 kilometres and the kiwi roam in daylight. Here's the full guide to going deep south....

Read More
Lake Tekapo & Aoraki Mount Cook: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Lake Tekapo & Aoraki Mount Cook: The Complete Guide

Mackenzie Country is where the South Island goes big: a high, wide basin of impossibly turquoise lakes, golden tussock and the tallest mountains in New Zealand, all under some of the clearest, darkest night skies on the planet. Two stops anchor it. Lake Tekapo, a tiny lakeside town with hot pools and a hilltop observatory, and Aoraki Mount Cook, the 3,724-metre giant at the head of the valley. Here's how to make the most of both....

Read More
Wānaka: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Wānaka: The Complete Guide

Wānaka is Queenstown's chilled-out little brother: a charming mountain town of around 8,000 people on the shore of one of the most beautiful lakes in the country, with all of the adventure and none of the queues. Summer means lake days and big hikes; winter turns it into the gateway to Treble Cone and Mt Aspiring National Park. It's also home to the most photographed tree in New Zealand, a maze that's been confusing people since 1973, and a skydive with Mt Cook on the horizon. Here's the full guide....

Read More
Queenstown: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Queenstown: The Complete Guide

Queenstown didn't ask to be called the adventure capital of the world; it earned it. This alpine town of 28,000 on the shore of Lake Wakatipu invented commercial bungy jumping, perfected the jet boat, and stacked more adrenaline per square kilometre than anywhere on the planet, all framed by the Remarkables mountain range and a healthy amount of Lord of the Rings scenery. And when the adrenaline runs out, the town keeps going: legendary burgers, $5 beers, ice bars and a nightlife that outperforms cities ten times its size. Here's the full rundown....

Read More
The West Coast & Glaciers: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

The West Coast & Glaciers: The Complete Guide

The West Coast is the South Island at its wildest: a long, narrow strip of rugged coastline and rainforest squeezed between the Tasman Sea and the Southern Alps, where just 33,000 people share the space with fur seals, rare kiwi and two of the most accessible glaciers on earth. This is the stretch of the trip where the scenery does the talking. Here's everything worth stopping for, from the seal colonies of Cape Foulwind to the ice caves of Franz Josef and the skydive over Fox....

Read More
Christchurch & Kaikōura: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Christchurch & Kaikōura: The Complete Guide

The east coast of the South Island pairs two places that couldn't be more different, or work better together. Christchurch, the Garden City, has rebuilt itself into one of New Zealand's most interesting urban stories: street art, laneway bars and a food scene born from reinvention. Two and a half hours north, tiny Kaikōura sits between mountains and a deep ocean trench that brings giant sperm whales within sight of shore all year round. Here's how to do them both properly....

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Nelson, Abel Tasman & Marlborough: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Nelson, Abel Tasman & Marlborough: The Complete Guide

The top of the South Island is where New Zealand turns the brightness up. This is the sunniest corner of the country: golden beaches, turquoise water, world-famous sauvignon blanc and the most beautiful of New Zealand's Great Walks, all packed into one compact region. Most travellers arrive by ferry into Picton, wind through Nelson, and end up barefoot in Marahau at the edge of Abel Tasman National Park. Here's everything worth doing along the way....

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Wellington: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Wellington: The Complete Guide

Squeezed between green hills and a harbour at the bottom of the North Island, Wellington packs a lot of personality into a very walkable space. New Zealand's capital runs on flat whites, craft beer and film-industry magic, and for most Stray travellers it's either the last hurrah of the North Island or the first taste of it. Here's how to make the most of the world's coolest little capital....

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Waitomo & the King Country: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Waitomo & the King Country: The Complete Guide

Some of the best things in the King Country happen where you can't see them from the road. Beneath the green farmland of Waitomo lies a largely uncharted network of limestone caves lit by millions of glowworms. And at the end of an unsealed road deep in the hills, a 7,200-acre high country farm called Blue Duck Station has quietly become the stop Stray travellers rate above everywhere else in New Zealand....

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Taupō & Tongariro: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Taupō & Tongariro: The Complete Guide

Halfway down the North Island sits a lake the size of Singapore, formed by one of the most violent volcanic eruptions in history. On its shore: Taupō, a laid-back lakeside town with a serious adrenaline habit. An hour south: Tongariro National Park, New Zealand's oldest national park and home to the country's most famous day hike. Together they make one of the best two-stop stretches of any North Island trip. Here's everything worth doing, from thundering waterfalls and 18,500ft skydives to free thermal pools and the walk everyone comes to New Zealand to do....

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Rotorua & the Geothermal Heartland: The Complete Guide
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Rotorua & the Geothermal Heartland: The Complete Guide

Steam drifting from street drains. Mud pools bubbling beside the footpath. The unmistakable whiff of sulphur that tells you the earth here is very much alive. Welcome to Rotorua and the Geothermal Heartland, the beating volcanic heart of the North Island and one of the most rewarding stops on any New Zealand trip. This guide covers everything worth doing in and around Rotorua, from world-famous thermal wonderlands and grade 5 rafting to the region's rich Māori culture, plus the place most visitors never find: Lake Aniwhenua, home to Stray's most loved overnight stop....

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Coromandel & Bay of Plenty
NEW ZEALAND

01 September 2026

Coromandel & Bay of Plenty

New Zealand's east coast summer playground packs three icons into one stretch of coastline: Cathedral Cove, arguably the country's most picturesque beach; Hot Water Beach, where you dig your own natural spa in the sand; and Mauao, the extinct volcanic cone standing guard over Mt Maunganui's surf beaches. This guide covers both stops, the Coromandel's Hahei and the Bay of Plenty's Mount, and everything worth doing at each....

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Auckland & Tours from Auckland
NEW ZEALAND

31 August 2026

Auckland & Tours from Auckland

Auckland is New Zealand's biggest city, a bustling, multicultural harbour city (much larger than the capital, Wellington) and the starting point for most New Zealand adventures. It's known as the City of Sails because there are more boats per capita here than anywhere else on earth, roughly one boat for every four people. And you thought New Zealand just had a lot of sheep....

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Vietnam Travel Guide
SOUTH EAST ASIA

31 August 2026

Vietnam Travel Guide

Bordered by China, Laos, Cambodia and the South China Sea, Vietnam is a country that has it all: lush rainforests, magical waterfalls and rivers, traditional temples and villages, and cities that fizz with energy. It's the perfect combination of modern and classic....

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Thailand Travel Guide
SOUTH EAST ASIA

31 August 2026

Thailand Travel Guide

Thailand is Asia's top travel destination for more reasons than one. From the lush mountain jungles, traditional villages and sacred culture of the North to the turquoise waters and white-sand tropical beaches of the South, there's something here for every traveller....

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Laos Travel Guide
SOUTH EAST ASIA

31 August 2026

Laos Travel Guide

Nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia between Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and China, landlocked Laos is often overlooked in favour of its more popular neighbours. Their loss. With its stunning and diverse landscape, friendly and relaxed people and responsible tourism practices, Laos is one of the most enchanting countries in the region....

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Cambodia Travel Guide
SOUTH EAST ASIA

31 August 2026

Cambodia Travel Guide

Cambodia's vibrant culture, fascinating history and beautiful islands make it an ideal place for an authentic adventure. This is the home of Angkor Wat, the biggest religious monument in the world, and Ta Prohm, the jungle-swallowed temple that set the scene for Tomb Raider. It's also a country of white-sand islands, humble and curious people, brilliant food and a recent history every visitor should take the time to understand....

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Best Way to Travel Around New Zealand
NEW ZEALAND

31 August 2026

Best Way to Travel Around New Zealand

So you're coming to New Zealand. Great call. The next decision is the one that shapes your whole trip: how are you going to get around? Guided bus tour, campervan, your own car or public transport, they'll all get you from A to B, but they deliver very different trips for very different budgets....

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Getting to Laos & the Mekong River Homestay
SOUTH EAST ASIA

31 August 2026

Getting to Laos & the Mekong River Homestay

Laos doesn't do fast. Locals joke that Laos PDR stands for 'Please Don't Rush', and nowhere proves the point better than arriving the classic way: drifting up the Mekong River on a slow boat, past water buffalo, fishing villages and jungle-covered mountains, to a tiny riverside village that no other tour group visits. This guide covers every practical route into Laos, by land border and by air, from Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam and China, plus the experience most travellers never get to have: an overnight stay at Stray's exclusive Mekong River Homestay....

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Discover the thriving community of local artists offering a distinct Kiwi sound. Our favourite artists to see live.
KIWI CULTURE

16 March 2023

Discover the thriving community of local artists offering a distinct Kiwi sound. Our favourite artists to see live.

If you're a true music lover as well as an avid traveller, then you're probably inclined to check out the local music scene in every new destination you visit. New Zealand may be small, but travelling music buffs shouldn't be surprised to discover the thriving community of local artists offering a d...

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Our sustainable traveller’s bible will help you to live your best life - without it costing the earth
ECO TRAVEL NZ

18 May 2022

Our sustainable traveller’s bible will help you to live your best life - without it costing the earth

We all share a common goal: more travel, and less impact. There’s an overwhelming amount of information (and disinformation) about how to be more sustainable, and we know that when you’re travelling, it becomes 10 times harder. We’ve put together our checklist for sustainable travellers while on the...

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10 Mind-Blowing Facts About Whales: The Most Interesting Prep for your Whale-Watching Tour
ACTIVITIES

10 February 2022

10 Mind-Blowing Facts About Whales: The Most Interesting Prep for your Whale-Watching Tour

New Zealand is a great place to go whale watching. And whales are such interesting creatures. Did you know the blue whale's heart is the size of a Volkswagen Beetle? The mind boggles. To help you prep for your whale-watching tour in New Zealand and learn a bit more about these amazing creatures, we ...

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Why You Should See the Franz Josef Glacier from a Kayak
FRANZ JOSEF

08 February 2022

Why You Should See the Franz Josef Glacier from a Kayak

The mighty Franz Josef glacier is a highlight of many people’s South Island adventures. In this blog post, you'll find out that one of the coolest ways (no pun intended) is to see the Franz Josef Glacier from a kayak! The team at Glacier Country Kayak take you on a tour of the beautiful glacial lake...

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6 ways to spend a day or two in Auckland and to have a blast in the City of Sails!
ACTIVITIES

06 January 2022

6 ways to spend a day or two in Auckland and to have a blast in the City of Sails!

Famously known as the ‘City of Sails’, Auckland is a world full of joy! With so much to see and do in Auckland, our local Stray team have selected their top 6 ways to spend a day or two in Auckland. Auckland is a city that caters for everybody: the adventurous, the beach bums, the arts and culture l...

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4 Simple Yet Fun Card Games to Play to Kill Time when Travelling
ACTIVITIES

06 September 2021

4 Simple Yet Fun Card Games to Play to Kill Time when Travelling

A simple 52-card deck absolutely belongs in every backpack. Apart from being a fun solution to kill time, it is easy to carry and space-saving. Here are the best yet easy card games to play while travelling. At some point in your travels, you will inevitably experience some sort of delay, whether it...

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Ticked the heli-hike off your travel list? Check out the other amazing things to do in Franz Josef!
BACKPACKER

08 August 2021

Ticked the heli-hike off your travel list? Check out the other amazing things to do in Franz Josef!

Thanks to the incredible blue ice formations going viral on social media, the heli-hike in Franz Josef has become the ultimate thing to do. But don't be fooled, the heli-hike isn't all that this awesome town has to offer. Check it out! Franz Josef is one of the most talked-about Stray stops and ther...

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The best activities in Queenstown for adrenaline junkies: how to go harder & faster
ADRENALINE

07 August 2021

The best activities in Queenstown for adrenaline junkies: how to go harder & faster

The Stray bus pulls into Queenstown... Stop number 1? The Kawarau Bridge Bungy, home of the world's first commercial bungy jump. The faint sound of screams as people jump, leap, dive or just fall off the platform will greet your ears and mark the beginning of your adventure in NZ's adrenaline capita...

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Your free guide to the best hiking and walking tracks in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park
BACKPACKER

04 August 2021

Your free guide to the best hiking and walking tracks in Aoraki Mount Cook National Park

Most people fall in love with Aoraki/Mount Cook National Park as soon as they drive in - the road is famous for its stunning views of the Southern Alps and Lake Pukaki. Here are 6 awesome trails to check out while you're there. A great place to stay at Aoraki Mount Cook is right in the heart of Moun...

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How to stay fit while travelling: our best tips to stay active while on the road in NZ
HIKING

25 July 2021

How to stay fit while travelling: our best tips to stay active while on the road in NZ

Travellers say it’s hard to stay in shape, but when you’re in New Zealand that seems like an excuse. Around every corner there’s something to do – something to challenge you. It doesn’t take a gruelling workout at the gym or a long run to stay in peak shape. Get creative and take advantage of your s...

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Experience an amazing summer in New Zealand: party at the best festivals in the most amazing places
FESTIVAL

23 July 2021

Experience an amazing summer in New Zealand: party at the best festivals in the most amazing places

No New Zealand summer experience is truly complete without attending one of the many world-class music festivals held around the country. We’ve collated a list of some of the very best festivals New Zealand has to offer. Each of these festivals has its own flavour and musical genres on the line-up. ...

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Life speeds up in winter in Queenstown: how to experience the winter adrenaline rush in this picturesque alpine town
NEW ZEALAND

08 June 2021

Life speeds up in winter in Queenstown: how to experience the winter adrenaline rush in this picturesque alpine town

Picture this: You're sipping on a mulled wine surrounded by snow-capped mountains and starlit skies after a jam-packed day of activities including skiing and skydiving. The dream, right?! It's no surprise that our travellers love to spend winter in Queenstown for exactly that reason! Nestled in the ...

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6 Popular Types of Backpacker Jobs to do on your Working Holiday in New Zealand
BACKPACKER JOBS

07 June 2021

6 Popular Types of Backpacker Jobs to do on your Working Holiday in New Zealand

Are you considering combining work & travel in New Zealand? Here's a list of the popular types of backpacker jobs that are available. Perfect for those on a Working Holiday Visa in New Zealand. A working holiday visa is a unique opportunity for young travellers (aged between 18 and 30) to work & tra...

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How to prepare for the rough terrain of NZ's best day hike: Tongariro Alpine Crossing
NATIONAL PARK

31 May 2021

How to prepare for the rough terrain of NZ's best day hike: Tongariro Alpine Crossing

Tongariro Alpine Crossing, voted New Zealand’s best day hike, is a backpacker favourite. Don’t be fooled, however! The terrain can be tricky and weather conditions can be unpredictable, which means you need to be prepared and pack wisely. Luckily for you, we’ve put together the ultimate guide to ans...

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Your 2021 New Zealand Ski Season Guide
NEW ZEALAND

06 April 2021

Your 2021 New Zealand Ski Season Guide

Whatever you think about Jon Snow, he was right about one thing; winter has come. With the white walker threat out of the way, it’s high time we focus on the important things, like the ski season in New Zealand. Whether you’re a novice snow bunny curious about hitting the slopes, or a veteran ski bu...

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5 Irresistible Reasons to Get Your First Skydiving Experience in Taupo
ACTIVITIES

26 March 2021

5 Irresistible Reasons to Get Your First Skydiving Experience in Taupo

So, you want to jump out of a plane? Or you’re at least thinking about it that you’re jumping curious (my advice for these people is to just do it, YOLO). I recently made my skydiving debut with Taupo Tandem Skydiving, and I was absolutely blown away by the whole experience. Of course, New Zealand i...

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If you think the TranzAlpine scenic train is just another train ride you are wrong. Here's why!
LANDSCAPE

15 March 2021

If you think the TranzAlpine scenic train is just another train ride you are wrong. Here's why!

National Geographic listed the TranzAlpine Train Journey from Christchurch to Greymouth as one of the most scenic in the world. Jerry Cortez set out to find out what makes this trip one of NZ's top experiences, and so much more than just a means of transport... Meet Jerry... Everyone at Stray loves ...

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Autumn in NZ, an amazing season to travel: fewer people, amazing colours and more advantages
AUTUMN

07 March 2021

Autumn in NZ, an amazing season to travel: fewer people, amazing colours and more advantages

When it comes to travelling New Zealand, there's no bad time to visit. But if we had to recommend our favourite time of year, it's Autumn! Fewer people and amazing colours are just a few of the advantages. Autumn in New Zealand takes places in the months of March, April and May. Although a relativel...

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An easy way to travel New Zealand sustainably without breaking the Earth or the bank
LOW CARBON TRAVEL

01 March 2021

An easy way to travel New Zealand sustainably without breaking the Earth or the bank

If you’re part of the global army of good people doing their best to fight the climate change, we salute you. It’s going to take the efforts of everyone to ensure a healthy future for us and our planet. But does living sustainably mean that you can’t do the things you love, like travel to amazing pl...

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The 5 best things to do in Kaikoura. This is what the pretty coastal town is famous for!
ACTIVITIES

24 February 2021

The 5 best things to do in Kaikoura. This is what the pretty coastal town is famous for!

Kaikoura is a pretty little coastal town two and a half hours north of Christchurch. There are plenty of pretty little coastal towns in New Zealand. What makes Kaikoura special? What is Kaikoura famous for? When you arrive in Kaikoura you’ll see huge mountains that frame the town. What you can’t see...

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7 Super-easy money-saving tips to see New Zealand on a budget
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

22 February 2021

7 Super-easy money-saving tips to see New Zealand on a budget

New Zealand is often considered by tourists to be an expensive place to travel around. I thought this was the case before coming too, especially as I had lived in Australia and heard lots of people complaining about how pricey it is in New Zealand. But while the cost of travelling here is not like S...

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The day New Zealand found Blue Duck Station
ECO-TOURISM

16 February 2021

The day New Zealand found Blue Duck Station

Ten years after we "discovered" Blue Duck Station, the rest of New Zealand experienced the awesomeness of this eco-tourism wonderland. Recently, Seven Sharp (TVNZ's current affairs programme) visited Blue Duck Station. It was 2011 when we created our first blog post about visiting Blue Duck Station....

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How to Plan your Dream Trip to New Zealand
BACKPACK NEW ZEALAND

04 February 2021

How to Plan your Dream Trip to New Zealand

So you want to come to New Zealand? Who doesn’t! We all know that so much more goes into planning your dream trip than what you see in those epic insta pics, and sometimes it is hard to know where to start. We’ve got the scoop on which blogs to read, how to get cheap flights and how to travel stress...

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An adrenaline junkie's list of the best places to skydive in NZ
NEW ZEALAND

14 January 2021

An adrenaline junkie's list of the best places to skydive in NZ

The ultimate bucket list activity - SKYDIVING! With such incredible scenery, it's no surprise that New Zealand is consistently voted one of the best places in the world to jump out of a perfectly good aircraft (with a parachute, of course!). Here's a guide to, what I think, are the top 7 skydive loc...

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This is the Ultimate To-Do in Wanaka List That Has You Covered Every Day of the Year
BIKING

07 January 2021

This is the Ultimate To-Do in Wanaka List That Has You Covered Every Day of the Year

Wonderful Wanaka has so much to offer. It's almost impossible to squeeze everything in one blog post, but we've managed to create the ultimate to-do in Wanaka list for you. The list that is packed with free and paid activities in summer, winter and the seasons in between. Check it out. The journey f...

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My Favourite Things To Do in Auckland: A Kiwi's Guide To The Best Auckland Has To Offer
AUCKLAND

05 January 2021

My Favourite Things To Do in Auckland: A Kiwi's Guide To The Best Auckland Has To Offer

Auckland is an awesome city - not only are you never more than 20mins drive from a beach, it's got a really unique landscape with 50 volcanoes, a gulf peppered with islands, great dining options, its own culture and some nice short hikes/day walks. As a born and bred Aucklander, I get seriously offe...

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Our top 6 of unique NZ beaches - these beaches are stunning, no matter the season!
BACKPACKING

28 December 2020

Our top 6 of unique NZ beaches - these beaches are stunning, no matter the season!

Whether you're a self-proclaimed beach babe or someone who could live without sand and it's the ability to get everywhere, there's no denying that the beaches in New Zealand are breathtakingly beautiful. We've narrowed it down to, what we think, are the top 6 must-see beaches in New Zealand. No matt...

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How to Fly Like an Eagle: These are the Best Places for Ziplining in Southeast Asia!
ADRENALINE

24 December 2020

How to Fly Like an Eagle: These are the Best Places for Ziplining in Southeast Asia!

Want the rush of the wind in your hair, the exhilaration of flying and a big adrenaline hit? Go zip-lining! It’s a fun, safe activity where you get to see the scenery from a different viewpoint and race through the air at up to 100kms per hour! The best zip line adventures combine awesome scenery wi...

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Ultimate guide to celebrating New Year’s Eve in Southeast Asia to help you find the best parties
ASIA

15 November 2020

Ultimate guide to celebrating New Year’s Eve in Southeast Asia to help you find the best parties

Although New Year’s Eve in Asia is actually in April, the locals still think that the Western New Year is a great excuse for a party and you’ll find plenty to do in each of the major cities on the Stray route. Plan your trip so that you end up in one of these party-places on 31 December! Celebrating...

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What makes South Island's Glacier Country Kayak Adventure so magical?
ACTIVITIES

02 February 2020

What makes South Island's Glacier Country Kayak Adventure so magical?

Your Stray tour of South Island can present a unique kayak or stand up paddleboard adventure just minutes from the stunning Franz Josef Glacier. Feel the magic as you settle into your kayak, or hop on your SUP and smoothly glide across Lake Mapourika’s mysterious reflective waters while enjoying the...

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7 Reasons why the Hahei Explorer is the best way to see Cathedral Cove
ACTIVITIES

20 January 2020

7 Reasons why the Hahei Explorer is the best way to see Cathedral Cove

The Hahei Explorer is a scenic boat trip like no other and the best way to see the iconic Cathedral Cove . You’ll cruise through the Hahei Marine Reserve and travel 14km along the spectacular coastline. Unique, insightful and unforgettable, this tour is not only perfect for snapping those Insta-wort...

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Thrills and Spills in Queenstown – Jet boating with KJet
ACTIVITIES

07 January 2020

Thrills and Spills in Queenstown – Jet boating with KJet

Queenstown is a stunning town in New Zealand’s South Island, located on beautiful Lake Wakatipu. But there’s nothing sleepy about this scenic lakeside town. It is known for its seemingly endless adventure activities, so if you're looking for thrills and spills in Queenstown, blast-off on a jet boat ...

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Stray in partnership with Kohutapu Lodge wins top award for Community Engagement
NEWS

14 November 2019

Stray in partnership with Kohutapu Lodge wins top award for Community Engagement

Stray and Kohutapu Lodge have won the Community Engagement Award at the 2019 Tourism Industry Association (TIA) Awards. The accolade recognises the work Stray and Kohutapu Lodge have done in the remote Central North Island community of Murupara. This work began in 2013, involving Stray, Kohutapu Lod...

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My Travel Guide to Laos: How to See and Do More in This Amazing Country
ADVENTURE TRAVEL

29 April 2019

My Travel Guide to Laos: How to See and Do More in This Amazing Country

Laos was once a hidden gem of Southeast Asia but is getting more crowded by the day. After a bit of research, I knew that travelling on a Laos group tour with Stray Asia would be perfect and really take me off the beaten track in Laos. Check out my guide to Laos. My Travel Guide to Laos Off The Beat...

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7 Reasons Why Abel Tasman is NZ's Most Scenic Skydive Location
ABEL TASMAN

01 April 2019

7 Reasons Why Abel Tasman is NZ's Most Scenic Skydive Location

It’s a no-brainer that the Abel Tasman features on the list of best places to skydive in New Zealand. But when it comes to stunning scenery, the region is arguably in a league of its own. Skydiving in the Abel Tasman, near Nelson at the top of the South Island, offers a smorgasbord of incredible vie...

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The Ultimate NZ Packing List
BACKPACKER

21 March 2019

The Ultimate NZ Packing List

Decided to visit New Zealand? ✔ Booked your flights? ✔ Chosen Stray as the best way to see the country? ✔✔✔ Now all you need to do is pack your bag and you’re away! But what to bring? We’ve compiled the Ultimate NZ Packing List as your go-to guide on what to pack for your epic Kiwi adventure. Suitca...

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Best way to get from Thailand to Laos? Skip the soulless flights or crowded busses. Choose adventure instead!
ASIA

04 February 2019

Best way to get from Thailand to Laos? Skip the soulless flights or crowded busses. Choose adventure instead!

If you're backpacking in Southeast Asia, naturally the next country to visit after Thailand is Laos. You might be wondering how to get from Thailand to Laos and be considering your options. You could take a soulless flight or a crowded bus. Or you can choose adventure and travel by slow boat along t...

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A Love Letter From The Road: Welsh travellers exploring South-East Asia [review]
ASIA

16 January 2019

A Love Letter From The Road: Welsh travellers exploring South-East Asia [review]

Welsh couple Bethyn and Gerwyn recently travelled Asia on a Stray Asia Tour, where they experienced the best of Thailand and Laos. Luckily for us, they got in touch afterwards, and let us know just what is so special about travelling in these countries with Stray. Here is what they had to say... It ...

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Jess Finds Out The Truth About Travelling the South Island in Winter: Freezing Cold or Unforgettable Experience?
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

29 November 2018

Jess Finds Out The Truth About Travelling the South Island in Winter: Freezing Cold or Unforgettable Experience?

We wanted to find out the truth about Queenstown and South Island. What happens when Kiwis experience Queenstown for the first time? Are they as blown away by the scenery and as excited about Ferg Burger as people from other countries? And what about the rest of the South, is the landscape really th...

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How to have 48 amazing hours in Vang Vieng as an adventure-loving traveller
ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

28 November 2018

How to have 48 amazing hours in Vang Vieng as an adventure-loving traveller

Ah, Vang Vieng. Considered by many to be the highlight destination in Laos on the famous “Banana Pancake Trail” through Southeast Asia. Vang Vieng is home to adventurous outdoor activities set amongst gorgeous natural scenery. Yes, it was previously better known for its wild and unregulated river tu...

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The 2019 Stray Travel Guide is HERE!
ADVENTURE

04 October 2018

The 2019 Stray Travel Guide is HERE!

Hot off the presses, the brand spanking new 2019 Stray New Zealand Travel Guide has landed! Get the scoop on the 2018-19 route updates and heaps of info about Stray's awesome destinations and best activity options. PLUS, all the NZ history, geography, top tips and fun facts that you need to make you...

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New Zealand phone plans, data and internet: Everything you need to know!
DATA

10 September 2018

New Zealand phone plans, data and internet: Everything you need to know!

Most backpackers coming to New Zealand won’t want to rely on finding free wifi to stay connected. While free wifi exists (see the list at the bottom of this article), if you’re heading off the beaten track it's much harder to find, and that’s where all the Instagram worthy photos come from! Check ou...

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24 Hours on Stewart Island
BACKPACKER

14 August 2018

24 Hours on Stewart Island

New Zealand's third largest island doesn't always make it onto every traveller's itinerary but, here at Stray, we're here to change that. Travel blogger, Krysti Jaims, jumped on the Stray bus in search of adventure on Stewart Island and, boy, did she find it! Please note: Stewart Island isn't includ...

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Should you travel New Zealand in winter if you're a fan of sunshine and warmth?
BACKPACKING

20 July 2018

Should you travel New Zealand in winter if you're a fan of sunshine and warmth?

What happens when you take an Island girl, used to tropical temperatures, and send her on the Stray bus in the middle of winter in NZ? Was it a recipe for disaster or an unexpected match made in heaven? Let's find out! Stray staff members are encouraged to join the Stray bus whenever they can and Ri...

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Lone Buffalo, Laos - A Foundation for the Future
SOUTH EAST ASIA

19 July 2018

Lone Buffalo, Laos - A Foundation for the Future

At Stray, we believe that travel is a two-way exchange between travellers and locals. It's important for us to give back to local communities along the way on our Laos tours in return for the incredible things that they teach us about their cultures. Find out more about Lone Buffalo, a not-for-profi...

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Making a Difference with Auckland City Mission
AUCKLAND

10 July 2018

Making a Difference with Auckland City Mission

If you're in New Zealand over winter, you might have noticed that it's getting a bit chilly! The mountains are snow-capped, the chairlifts are cranking at the ski resorts and the air is crisp. Whilst it may be a beautiful time of year to visit NZ as a traveller, we know that this season isn't easy f...

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New Zealand's Best Ski Resorts
NEW ZEALAND

09 June 2018

New Zealand's Best Ski Resorts

Winter is an amazing time to travel in New Zealand, especially for true mountain enthusiasts with a love of fresh, white pow pow! It's time to strap into your snowboard and clip into your skis and experience how we get down in the Southern hemisphere... From the volcanic slopes of the North Island t...

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A Traveller's Guide to Matariki
BACKPACKING

31 May 2018

A Traveller's Guide to Matariki

Want to know more about Matariki - a.k.a the Māori new year? You're in luck! We've put together a guide that will answer all of your questions, from What is Matariki? to Where can I see it? and How can I celebrate it? - we've got you covered... What is Matariki? Matariki is the name for the traditio...

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What it's like to travel solo with Stray
BACKPACKING

21 May 2018

What it's like to travel solo with Stray

The thought of travelling solo can be intimidating, stressful and downright terrifying... especially when you're on the other side of the world! At the same time, it might just be one of the most exhilarating and life-changing things you'll ever do. We caught up with Lucy Mullins - a 24 year old arc...

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3 Places in South-East Asia that Will Change How You View the World
ASIA

17 May 2018

3 Places in South-East Asia that Will Change How You View the World

South-East Asia is also steeped in a dark and violent history, things that you might not have been exposed to in Western society, but once you visit these places on your travels, and hear the stories, the lessons of this history will stay with you for the rest of your life. The history of South-East...

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Stray Days: Straying with Sarah and Tim
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

25 April 2018

Stray Days: Straying with Sarah and Tim

Originally from the USA and now travelling the world on an extended 20-month honeymoon (the dream, right?!), Sarah and Tim found some spare time to fill us in on their Stray adventure. Why did you choose to travel Stray? We originally planned to rent a camper van and self-drive around the islands, b...

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Should you travel South-East Asia in the low season? It was an amazing experience for me.
SOUTH EAST ASIA

23 April 2018

Should you travel South-East Asia in the low season? It was an amazing experience for me.

Many backpackers choose to travel South-East Asia in the summer months (October to February) in order to take full advantage of the cooler climate. Also, to experience this region in all its lively and bustling glory. However, travelling in monsoon season aka low-season is amazing too! Southeast Asi...

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A Traveller's Guide to Anzac Day
ACTIVITIES

17 April 2018

A Traveller's Guide to Anzac Day

If you’re travelling in New Zealand or Australia at the moment, you may have heard 'Anzac Day' mentioned. Perhaps you’ve noticed the locals wearing red poppy badges or spotted some tasty looking Anzac biscuits for sale. Here's a visitor's guide to understand what Anzac Day is and what it means to us...

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Quick facts about New Zealand Tax
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

12 April 2018

Quick facts about New Zealand Tax

Living in New Zealand can be so exciting that, one thing is for sure - the last thing at forefront of your mind is tax. Here's a handy guide with everything you need to know: Quick tax facts to keep in mind: 1. One of the biggest factors affecting what you’ll pay is your residency status. You’ll be ...

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Canyoning: The best adventure to get roped into!
ABEL TASMAN CANYONS

03 April 2018

Canyoning: The best adventure to get roped into!

Canyoning is a totally unique and exciting way to see part of the Abel Tasman National Park. We get right off the beaten track and head inland away from the coast to explore the beautifully sculpted granite rock canyons in the heart of the Park. You’ll find emerald-green pools with crystal clear wat...

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The Best Places to Celebrate Songkran in South East Asia
ASIA

02 April 2018

The Best Places to Celebrate Songkran in South East Asia

In many countries, New Year is celebrated with fireworks but in Southeast Asia it’s celebrated with... water! We're not talking about a splash here and there, but three whole days of the biggest outdoor water fights in the world! Locals and backpackers alike take to the streets armed with water pist...

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Easter in New Zealand
APRIL

26 March 2018

Easter in New Zealand

For many of us the best part of Easter, aside from scoffing hot cross buns smeared in warm butter and gorging on delicious chocolate bunnies, is the two public holidays that frame the weekend. For those of you currently travelling, we’ve put together a list of what you need to know for the upcoming ...

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Team Orange take Puhoi!
KAYAKING

26 March 2018

Team Orange take Puhoi!

Here at Stray, we don't just provide awesome, off-the-beaten track experiences for our passengers but we also encourage our team to get out there and 'walk the walk' too. This time around, we swapped walking for kayaking and ventured north of Auckland to Puhoi, where we paddled along the river to We...

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Stray Days: Straying with Thomas and Lynn
BACKPACKING

21 March 2018

Stray Days: Straying with Thomas and Lynn

This month we’re Straying with Thomas and Lynn from Belgium. They used their Stray Tour to see the whole of New Zealand from top to bottom. Check it out... What was your favourite Kiwi word or phrase? We learned all about Kiwi words and phrases from one of our very first Stray drivers: Lantern. He t...

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Stray Days - Stories from the road. Straying with Gemma!
SOUTH EAST ASIA

18 March 2018

Stray Days - Stories from the road. Straying with Gemma!

Gemma Daniel, originally from Wales in the UK, quit her job to travel for a year and a half. She spent 4 months travelling around Asia on a Stray Tour and even celebrated her 26th birthday on the Stray bus in Bai Xep! She's planning to keep travelling around the world but we managed to interview her...

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Life is slower in Laos: time to relax and to appreciate the little things in life
ASIA

12 March 2018

Life is slower in Laos: time to relax and to appreciate the little things in life

As you cross the border into Laos, something instantly feels different. The busy life we're used to back home has changed to a more relaxed lifestyle where we are able to see and appreciate the little things in life. Life surely is slower in Laos. Every day in our busy lives we rarely take the time ...

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Stray together, stay together!
BACKPACKING

25 February 2018

Stray together, stay together!

Ever wondered what it's like to Stray with your other half? We caught up with an awesome couple: Kaya Bulbul from Turkey and Amelie Krug from Sweden. They made the most of their university break and used a Stray Tour to see the best of the North Island. Why did you choose to travel Stray? We chose S...

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Often overlooked yet so amazing: 6 reasons to travel to Laos as soon as it is possible
ASIA

21 February 2018

Often overlooked yet so amazing: 6 reasons to travel to Laos as soon as it is possible

With its hidden caves, lush jungles, terraced rice paddies and rural villages it has all the potential to be a contender in the running for your favourite SE Asia destination yet. Here are just 6 reasons why, if you're planning your Southeast Asian adventure, you simply can't skip Laos! Laos - the u...

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Welcome to Wanaka's Wonderful World of Weirdness!
ACTIVITIES

15 February 2018

Welcome to Wanaka's Wonderful World of Weirdness!

Home to some of the South Island's most spectacular scenery and Instagram icons like 'That Wanaka Tree' and Roys Peak, a stop in Wanaka is an absolute must! It's also home to a truly unique NZ original you won't want to miss: Puzzling World! Guest starring: Puzzling World “Welcome to Wanaka’s Wonder...

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This is how you create an easy travel plan for an awesome week in Cambodia
ASIA

13 February 2018

This is how you create an easy travel plan for an awesome week in Cambodia

We've put together a brief guide outlining all of Cambodia's highlights and how to make the most of your time there if you only have a week to spare. That way you can see the popular attractions and some of the hidden gems. Despite its dark past, Cambodia is a charming and mysterious country with ab...

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Top 5 Stargazing Spots in NZ
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

09 February 2018

Top 5 Stargazing Spots in NZ

We could list a thousand reasons why New Zealand should be your number 1 spot for stargazing, but instead we've narrowed it down a little... With plenty of remote locations and limited light pollution, there's no shortage of glittering constellations to be found here. Here are our top 5 picks when i...

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Is a motorbike tour the best way to explore Hue in Vietnam? Sneak preview: YES!
SOUTH EAST ASIA

07 February 2018

Is a motorbike tour the best way to explore Hue in Vietnam? Sneak preview: YES!

This time, Rachael shared her travel diary on one of the highlights of her entire trip: a two=wheel experiences guided motorbike tour of Hue in Vietnam. Check it out. Hi, Rachael here. This is my travel story of doing a motorbike tour in Hue, Vietnam.... We arrived in Hue on the morning of a rather ...

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Skydive Abel Tasman: First Skydive in the World on Google Street View
ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

24 January 2018

Skydive Abel Tasman: First Skydive in the World on Google Street View

The amazing team at Skydive Abel Tasman had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to be the first skydive in the world to be added to Google Street View. Here, they share their behind-the-scenes story of how it all came together... Skydive Abel Tasman received a call from a London-based Google Street V...

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Planting a seed of positivity with Kohutapu Lodge
LAKE ANIWHENUA

22 January 2018

Planting a seed of positivity with Kohutapu Lodge

The friendly whanau (family) of Kohutapu Lodge at Stray's Lake Aniwhenua overnight stop recently launched a new 'Plant a Seed' initiative as a way to say 'thank you' to their international visitors and encourage them to carry a positive message further on their travels. For those who don't know, Lak...

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Stray Days: Straying with Ellie
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

21 January 2018

Stray Days: Straying with Ellie

This month we’re Straying with Ellie Crook, a travel blogger from the UK. She spent a year in New Zealand on a working holiday visa and used a Stray Tour to make her way around the country. What is a handy tip for other travellers thinking about Straying NZ? Be open to ALL the experiences offered to...

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Stray Days - Stories from the road. Straying with Rachael!
ASIA

21 December 2017

Stray Days - Stories from the road. Straying with Rachael!

Rachael decided to spend a leisurely couple of months travelling through Thailand, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam on a Stray Asia Tour. Here she's shared some of her top experiences and stories from the road... After living and working in New Zealand for a couple of years, Rachael Perkin was ready for a...

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Stray achieves Qualmark Gold for best business practice
ENVIRONMENTAL DAY

19 December 2017

Stray achieves Qualmark Gold for best business practice

Stray has gone for gold again and been awarded the prestigious Gold Sustainable Tourism Business Award by Qualmark for the fifth year running! Supported by Tourism New Zealand, Qualmark is New Zealand tourism’s official quality assurance organisation and they offer independent accreditation for tour...

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Set sail this summer in Abel Tasman National Park
ABEL TASMAN NATIONAL PARK

14 December 2017

Set sail this summer in Abel Tasman National Park

Featuring: Abel Tasman Sailing Adventures The season has certainly gotten off to an awesome start with summer weather arriving early. Bucket loads of sunshine, hot temperatures and steady sea breezes all making for great sailing. Exploring the Abel Tasman National Park under sail is well known for b...

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Top tips for taking perfect skydive photos
ACTIVITIES

09 December 2017

Top tips for taking perfect skydive photos

So, you’ve decided to cruise up to 16,500ft and skydive at the warmest and sunniest dropzone in New Zealand... good on ya! You'll want to remember this once in a lifetime experience so why not grab one of our camera packages and clue up on these top tips for some epic skydive photos. Guest starring:...

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Where to Spend New Year’s Eve in New Zealand
NEW YEAR

27 November 2017

Where to Spend New Year’s Eve in New Zealand

If you’re celebrating this New Year’s Eve in New Zealand, then you want to make it one of your most memorable! The 31st December falls in New Zealand’s summer season, which can be a definite change of pace for people visiting from the Northern Hemisphere. To determine where you want to be in the cou...

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The Ultimate North Island Road Trip
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

21 November 2017

The Ultimate North Island Road Trip

If you’ve been dreaming of a once-in-a-lifetime New Zealand adventure that gives you a taste of the very best the North Island has to offer, look no further! In just 8 days, you can: Enjoy the "City of Sails", Auckland Relax in a geo thermal spa Take your pick of white knuckle adventure activities L...

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New Zealand's best class 5 rafting on the Rangitata River
ACTIVITIES

18 November 2017

New Zealand's best class 5 rafting on the Rangitata River

Have you ever considered white water rafting? Read on if you’re interested in a truly unique experience on the Rangitata River, ‘the river from the sky.’ Your day at Rangitata Rafts begins before you arrive at our base. En route to our lodge in the middle of nowhere you will drive through the histor...

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Hop on board Hahei Explorer Cathedral Cove boat tours and discover the best of Hahei
ACTIVITIES

08 November 2017

Hop on board Hahei Explorer Cathedral Cove boat tours and discover the best of Hahei

Experience the adventure on the Hahei Explorer as we show you the best of what Hahei, Cathedral Cove and our incredible volcanic coastline has to offer. The stage is yours, Hahei Explorer. Tell our travelling friends about the amazing adventures that await in Hahei. This is your guest blog post.... ...

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Double the Fun with a Taupo Bungy/Swing Combo
ACTIVITIES

15 October 2017

Double the Fun with a Taupo Bungy/Swing Combo

Looking for a hit of adrenaline that will leave you pumped long after the experience ends? Well, you’re in luck. What’s better than one heart-pounding activity? Two, of course, and Taupo Bungy & Cliffhanger is home to the extreme adventure combo you’ve been waiting for. Kill two birds with one stone...

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Stray volunteers with Eat My Lunch
AUCKLAND

29 September 2017

Stray volunteers with Eat My Lunch

Early morning on Tuesday 12th September, a group of Stray staffers walked into the Auckland warehouse that serves as the headquarters for the Eat My Lunch program as part of our initiative to Make a Difference! Their mission for the day: prepare and pack 1,485 lunches that would help feed the hungry...

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A Guide to the Best Authentic Asian Cuisine. Take your Taste Buds on a Heavenly Trip
ASIA

13 August 2017

A Guide to the Best Authentic Asian Cuisine. Take your Taste Buds on a Heavenly Trip

South-East Asia is a feast for the senses, it’s the prospect of an actual culinary feast that’s at the forefront of our minds. Southeast Asia is a food lover's dream with countless options to tempt the taste buds. This is our list of the best authentic dishes or street food in Asian cuisine. There a...

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Stray staff STEP UP!
AUCKLAND

03 August 2017

Stray staff STEP UP!

On Friday 11th August, the lean, mean, stair-climbing machines from Team Stray each smashed out the 1,103 steps to conquer Auckland's Sky Tower, the tallest freestanding structure in the Southern Hemisphere, in the Step Up Sky Tower Challenge. Here's how they fared. Not only did they finish the clim...

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Stray Days - Stories from the road. Straying with Clarke!
ASIA

12 July 2017

Stray Days - Stories from the road. Straying with Clarke!

Done straying in New Zealand? Where can you go next? Luckily the Stray Universe is an ever-expanding entity, so there are heaps of options. Check out this travel story from Clarke who decided to stray Asia after finishing his work & travel holiday in New Zealand. Clarke Cooper had spent a year worki...

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Why ‘The Killing Fields’ & ‘S-21’ are a Must-See in Phnom Penh
ASIA

22 June 2017

Why ‘The Killing Fields’ & ‘S-21’ are a Must-See in Phnom Penh

Although not the lightest and brightest of conversation topics, the darker history of the Cambodian culture is extremely important. As a responsible traveller, it is crucial for you to understand the places and the cultures that you visit for what they were in the past and how that's impacted what t...

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Stray Days: Straying with Laura
BACKPACKER

22 June 2017

Stray Days: Straying with Laura

This month we’re Straying with Laura Nalin, a travel blogger originally hailing from the US. She decided to finish off her Working Holiday experience in New Zealand by getting off the beaten track on a Stray Tour around the South Island. What things about Kiwi culture make you giggle? After living i...

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Making a difference at the Laos Homestay Village
ASIA

31 May 2017

Making a difference at the Laos Homestay Village

Nestled on the banks of the mighty Mekong River in northern Laos sits the tiny village of Ban Pak Nguey, location of Stray's Laos village homestay. Over the past 3 years, this rural community has hosted Stray travellers on their Laos tour from all over the world. In 2016 alone, over 900 people stray...

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Shop like a local at the most colourful day and night markets in Cambodia and Vietnam
ASIA

23 May 2017

Shop like a local at the most colourful day and night markets in Cambodia and Vietnam

Across Cambodia and Vietnam, there are countless markets selling everything from clothes and food to more unusual hardware items. Walking through them lane by lane, as well as practising your haggling skills, is all part of the fun! Visitors to Southeast Asia will be spoilt for choice on sights to s...

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Is there a best time to visit Vietnam? Should I visit it in the wet season?
ASIA

17 May 2017

Is there a best time to visit Vietnam? Should I visit it in the wet season?

Vietnam is a very long and narrow country! While this may seem a strange thing to say, it means that Vietnam has quite a complicated weather picture, which makes the question 'when is the best time to visit Vietnam?' a difficult one to answer! The Northern and Southern regions of Vietnam tend to hav...

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How to Get Off The Beaten Track In Cambodia: See More Than Just Popular Tourist Attractions
ASIA

01 May 2017

How to Get Off The Beaten Track In Cambodia: See More Than Just Popular Tourist Attractions

Cambodia is a country a little bit behind Thailand in terms of tourism and infrastructure, but with each passing year things seem to be slowly on the up and up. There is more to Cambodia than Angkor Wat or any of the other attractions you’ve heard of too. It's time to get off the beaten track. Angko...

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All the reasons why you should visit Taupo!
BUNGY

01 May 2017

All the reasons why you should visit Taupo!

Taupo, one of the North Island's most beautiful townships and also home to New Zealand's largest lake. It might not be one of our designated Stray overnight stops, but we have built in a visit on our North Island tours. See why Taupo is a great stop on your Stray tour. Not only is it a fantastic des...

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Stray review: warm words from a happy Stray traveller
BACKPACKER

26 April 2017

Stray review: warm words from a happy Stray traveller

When we get a Stray review like the one recently shared by Bethan (aged 26 from Wales) we feel compelled to share it, not because we are bragging but because it tells us that all those early mornings, late nights and hard work is really and truly worth it. It has to be said, maintaining a flexible a...

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Stray Days – stories from the road. Straying with Remy!
ASIA

19 April 2017

Stray Days – stories from the road. Straying with Remy!

This month we’re Straying with Remy-Leigh McCoy Glendinning from England. He wanted to escape the daily routine of work, so he dropped everything and travelled to Asia. Check out his story. Remy completed a bachelor’s degree in film production and was making a living freelancing and working in hospi...

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The elephant in the room... Elephant experiences in Asia: yes or no?
ASIA

06 April 2017

The elephant in the room... Elephant experiences in Asia: yes or no?

Elephants have long since been my favourite animals. I am not sure what attracts me to them but I know my first teddy was an Elephant called Ellie and I still have him 23 years on. For those heading to Southeast Asia the opportunity to meet one of these majestic gentle giants is often quite high up ...

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Expert Advice For Your First Time In Southeast Asia
ASIA

29 March 2017

Expert Advice For Your First Time In Southeast Asia

We’ve all been there. You’ve booked your trip to Asia, and then you start thinking about it as it's fast becoming a reality. What will it be like there? Will I eat weird food? Will it be safe? Do I need to speak any of the languages? Well, fear not, we have the answers for you! We’ve travelled a lit...

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Stray Days - Stories from the Road - Straying with Jeremy!
ASIA

13 March 2017

Stray Days - Stories from the Road - Straying with Jeremy!

This month we're straying with Jeremy, a Canadian guy who's always got a grin on his face! He has just finished 3 months travelling on a Stray Asia tour. Jeremy fell in love with Stray after he Stray'd New Zealand with us in 2013. He went back home with a bad case of the travel bug and spent the las...

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Bypass major tourist attractions and head over to Kampot: a truly unique experience in Cambodia
ASIA

09 March 2017

Bypass major tourist attractions and head over to Kampot: a truly unique experience in Cambodia

Cambodia is so much more than major tourist attractions, like Angkor Wat. Bypass all that, or at least put it to the side for one day and experience Kampot, a place not to be missed. Decked out with rural terrain, lakes and nearby mountains, Kampot certainly is a place that lives within its natural ...

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My tasty tips for Travelling Foodies: 5 Vietnamese Foods You Have to Try on your Next Trip
ASIA

19 February 2017

My tasty tips for Travelling Foodies: 5 Vietnamese Foods You Have to Try on your Next Trip

Vietnamese food is becoming increasingly popular worldwide now and with good reason. As with other Asian cuisines, the focus is on yin and yang, delicately balancing sweetness with sourness, and saltiness with fresh fragrant herbs. However, the Vietnamese are experts and the rise in popularity of th...

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How to find the perfect spot at Hot Water Beach
BACKPACKING

08 February 2017

How to find the perfect spot at Hot Water Beach

Hot Water Beach is one of the hottest free activities on the North Island but it can be tricky to get your free, personal spa just right. Here are some top tips from our very own Stray driver: Nat! Located just a short drive from Hahei in the Coromandel Peninsula, Hot Water Beach is the result of un...

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My visit to the hidden and outer temples of Angkor: an amazing and unique experience in Siem Reap
ANGKOR

31 January 2017

My visit to the hidden and outer temples of Angkor: an amazing and unique experience in Siem Reap

I was lucky enough to have more than one day to explore the temples around Siem Reap, something I would highly recommend if you have time. With extra time to explore to my heart's content, I chose to book an Angkor 'Outer Temple' tour. The Outer Temple Experience of Angkor Wat There were multiple tr...

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Stray Days: Straying with Rose
BACKPACKER

02 January 2017

Stray Days: Straying with Rose

In this blog we remember Straying with Rose Revera from Wales, who spent three months getting off the beaten track in New Zealand on a Stray Tour. What are the 3 things you can’t leave home without travelling in NZ? Definitely a camera! You don't need to be good at photography to take nice pictures ...

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10 Things To Do in Luang Prabang to Make it the Best Experience of your Laos Trip!
ASIA

20 December 2016

10 Things To Do in Luang Prabang to Make it the Best Experience of your Laos Trip!

Luang Prabang surely will be one of your highlights travelling through Laos. Wondering what to do in Luang Prabang? Here is a list of my 10 favourite places and activities in Luang Prabang. Luang Prabang is a city in the north of Laos and famous for its cultural and religious sights, as well as its ...

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The Most Important Info You Need to Know about Customs and Etiquette in Myanmar
ASIA

15 December 2016

The Most Important Info You Need to Know about Customs and Etiquette in Myanmar

“Different countries, different customs.” Before travelling in a new country it is always good to familiarise yourself with the local customs and etiquette. What we consider normal behaviour at home isn’t always perceived in the same fashion outside our borders. Myanmar is a country rich in culture,...

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Fun & interesting things to do in Christchurch, no matter how much time you have
CHRISTCHURCH

06 December 2016

Fun & interesting things to do in Christchurch, no matter how much time you have

Have you got some free time in Christchurch? Not sure what to do or where to go when you've only got a few hours, half a day or just one day free? Here's what to do in Christchurch based on how much time you have free. How to get to Christchurch By bus: Christchurch is either an overnight stop or th...

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Stray Days – stories from the road. Straying with Rebecca!
ASIA

08 November 2016

Stray Days – stories from the road. Straying with Rebecca!

This month we’re Straying with Rebecca from England. Over the course of 4 months, Rebecca Strayed with us in Myanmar, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and New Zealand – everywhere you can Stray, she Strayed! What is the most interesting thing you learnt or did while on tour? I surprised myself and ...

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Stray Days – stories from the road. Straying with Brett!
ASIA

10 October 2016

Stray Days – stories from the road. Straying with Brett!

This month we’re Straying with Brett Hudson from New Zealand who recently got off the beaten track in Vietnam on a Stray bus pass. What is the most interesting thing you learnt or did while on tour? We went to a restaurant that’s also a gallery in Da Lat, where we had an amazing dinner and watched t...

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My Caving Adventures in Waitomo: review of Waitomo Adventures
CAVES

04 October 2016

My Caving Adventures in Waitomo: review of Waitomo Adventures

I consider myself a well-heeled adventure traveller. I’ve bungeed, skydived, dived the blue hole in Belize, bombed from almighty waterfalls, swung, hung, twirled and zip-lined. But when Stray suggested I try Tumu Tumu Toobing, a black water rafting adventure in Waitomo, New Zealand…well I had no fri...

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Stray Days - stories from the road. Straying with Kelly!
ASIA

04 September 2016

Stray Days - stories from the road. Straying with Kelly!

This month we’re Straying with Kelly Moodie from Canada who recently got off the beaten track in Thailand, Laos and Cambodia on a Stray Asia Tour. What would you say to yourself one month before took the Stray Bus? Pack lightly and make sure to leave room for a pair of elephant pants (or several) cl...

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Here's why you should stay in Nha Trang for a few days, especially if you are craving home comforts!
ASIA

16 August 2016

Here's why you should stay in Nha Trang for a few days, especially if you are craving home comforts!

If you’ve been on the road for a while and are craving a few home comforts, some ‘vacation’ type activities and a few easy days, here are five reasons you should hop off in Nha Trang. Looking for a fun spot to hop off and relax in Vietnam? Hop off in Nha Trang! Nha Trang is not one of our Stray over...

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A flying leap forward for conservation!
ACTIVITIES

04 August 2016

A flying leap forward for conservation!

Hanging upside down with my legs split flying backwards through the sunlight canopy of the ancient New Zealand forest is not usually how I would spend a Sunday. After just a few small hours with Rotorua Canopy Tours I went from being apprehensive about stepping off a perfectly good platform to being...

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Getting on and off the track in Battambang
ASIA

02 August 2016

Getting on and off the track in Battambang

I was really excited to visit the first Stray overnight stop at a village homestay, in Battambang. We were going to be accommodated in a small village, just outside of the main city, where we would share the home of a local family and live a day of local village life. Having spent two days in Siem R...

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These are the best beaches of Sihanoukville: each one has its own charm and offerings
ASIA

26 July 2016

These are the best beaches of Sihanoukville: each one has its own charm and offerings

Life’s a beach in Sihanoukville, and there are plenty of them to choose from. Known specifically for its tropical islands, palm-fringed sands and late-night atmosphere, each one of Sihanoukville's beaches has its own charm and offerings. Some are easier on the eye but less comfortable to relax on. S...

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What it's really like to see a Ladyboy show in Thailand
ASIA

13 July 2016

What it's really like to see a Ladyboy show in Thailand

“The Bangkok night heaved with the pumping noise of 90’s dance music, the oppressive heat caused my cheap cotton shirt to stick to my un-climatised body. My eyes danced back and forth from the overstimulation of crowds, bright neon lights, banging trance, young English men chanting and swilling chea...

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ASIA

10 July 2016

Celebrating New Year's Eve in South East Asia

Although New Year’s Eve is not an official holiday in Asia, the locals still think it’s a great excuse for a party and you’ll find plenty to do in each of the major cities on the Stray route. Plan your trip so that you end up in one of these party places on 31 December! Bangkok, Thailand If you're g...

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Top Tips for Having an Epic Time at the Full Moon Party
ASIA

23 June 2016

Top Tips for Having an Epic Time at the Full Moon Party

So you’re off to the Full Moon Party for the first time. You’re going to see what all the fuss is about but you’re a bit unsure as to what to expect and you’ve heard a couple of horror stories too. Some people say it’s not worth the money and others rave about it, so what’s the deal? The Full Moon P...

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My Top 10 Tips for Travelling Solo in a Group
ASIA

26 May 2016

My Top 10 Tips for Travelling Solo in a Group

Travelling as part of a group does make it easier. However, there is still ice to break. Here are my 10 tips that will make it easier for you. It can be daunting travelling alone. It can be daunting travelling at all! Going at it as part of a group does make it easier. However, there is still ice to...

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Taxi takes the reins of Stray’s Southeast Asia adventure travel network
NEWS

12 May 2016

Taxi takes the reins of Stray’s Southeast Asia adventure travel network

After a successful period of leadership, Stray Asia’s General Manager, Melissa Hutcheson, has handed over the leadership reins to Brett Hudson, the current General Manager of Stray New Zealand. From 1 April 2016, Hudson, better known in the tourism industry as ‘Taxi’, has stepped into the role as CE...

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A Quick Guide to Lao Food
ASIA

28 April 2016

A Quick Guide to Lao Food

When planning an eating tour across Southeast Asia, every foodie dreams of fresh Pad Thai piled high in Thailand and hot photo slurp in Vietnam. With the popular Thai and Vietnamese cuisines stealing the limelight, Laos could easily be an afterthought when planning your foodie dream tour in the regi...

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Top 5 Tips for Celebrating Songkran and Pi Mai Lao
ASIA

07 April 2016

Top 5 Tips for Celebrating Songkran and Pi Mai Lao

If you’re lucky enough to be travelling through Thailand or Laos between April 13-15 this year, be prepared to experience the wet and wild one-of-a-kind water festivals known as Songkran/Thai New Year and Pi Mai Lao/Lao New Year. The festivals may go by different names in the different countries, bu...

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Stray cleans up with Sustainable Coastlines
AUCKLAND

22 March 2016

Stray cleans up with Sustainable Coastlines

Stray focuses on showing travellers the best parts of New Zealand, and part of that mission is encouraging all travellers to keep NZ clean and green while they visit. Don't think for a second we don't practice what we preach - here's how we made a difference with Sustainable Coastlines. One of our i...

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Swimming in the Mekong River in Laos: a must-do on our amazing South-East Asia trip
ACTIVITIES

13 March 2016

Swimming in the Mekong River in Laos: a must-do on our amazing South-East Asia trip

Join Stray's European Sales Rep Charles 'Chucky' Fryer as he prepares to swim in Southeast Asia's mighty Mekong River at Ban Pak Nguey, Stray's exclusive overnight homestay in northern Laos. On the boat ride to the Laos homestay, our group of 16 on the Laos tour chatted about the chance to finally s...

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The Best Stray Love Stories
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

11 February 2016

The Best Stray Love Stories

We know a lot of people don't rate February 14th as anything special, but, here at Stray, we're a bunch of softies at heart and want to recognise all the love connections that have been made on the Stray bus over the years. (And there have been a fair few!) In honour of Valentine's Day, it's time to...

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Overwhelmed by all the to-do in Vietnam lists? We only focus on some of the most unique experiences.
ACTIVITIES

25 January 2016

Overwhelmed by all the to-do in Vietnam lists? We only focus on some of the most unique experiences.

Travel Expert and our personal pal Emma Manning recently returned from an incredible, eye-opening adventure whilst on tour in Vietnam. After covering the country from bottom to top, here are Emma’s top 5 ‘must do’ experiences that you simply cannot miss. Learn to paddle a round boat in Bai Xep Bai X...

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New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 6: Stray Further but don’t attempt to drive!
BACKPACKING NEW ZEALAND

29 July 2015

New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 6: Stray Further but don’t attempt to drive!

After five epic posts telling you the ins and outs of surviving Kiwi culture, guest blogger Sam from the UK gives his final insight into how best to travel around New Zealand... Now to see the country, taste the pies and learn the lingo, you’ll need some way to hit the road. As I’ve mentioned, publi...

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New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 5: Beaches that beat Southend
BEACHES

23 July 2015

New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 5: Beaches that beat Southend

If you think you've already found the world's best beaches (probably not Southend), New Zealand has them beat according to our guest blogger Sam the Brit. Here's his best advice for enjoying the surf and sand of the Kiwi coastline. I know what you’re thinking, you’ve been to Southend, thrown up on o...

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Top 5 things to see and do in Da Lat, Vietnam
5 THINGS

21 July 2015

Top 5 things to see and do in Da Lat, Vietnam

Da Lat is so very much off the radar, in terms of Vietnam. Located in the south between Ho Chi Minh City and Nha Trang, it is a very quiet, quaint town. Rich in French architecture and oddities, you'll feel miles away from Vietnam here. It shares none of the characteristics of other Vietnamese towns...

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New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 4: Eating in New Zealand
FOOD

16 July 2015

New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 4: Eating in New Zealand

You're speaking like a local and dressed for Kiwi success - now what's for dinner? Our guest blogger Sam from the UK is back to tell you all about New Zealand food. Food in NZ is same-same but different to what we have back in the UK. Let me make this clear. Wattie's and Heinz are the same company b...

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New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 3: Jandals, Singlets and Togs
CULTURE

01 July 2015

New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 3: Jandals, Singlets and Togs

Now that you understand basic New Zealand lingo, British guest blogger Sam's next lesson is a tutorial on how to dress like a New Zealander. So we’ve covered the mighty jandal (now auto-correcting to "vandal"), but there are other items of apparel that have different Kiwi names and are used in diffe...

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5 Reasons to travel Southeast Asia in Low Season
5 REASONS

01 July 2015

5 Reasons to travel Southeast Asia in Low Season

The phrase ‘Southeast Asia wet season’ might cause less seasoned travellers to run in the opposite direction with images of monsoons and cyclones in their heads. However, savvy travellers will realise that ‘wet season’ also translates to low season, which means reaping some major benefits not found ...

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New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 2: Kiwis vs Australians - A Lingo Lesson
FOOD

21 June 2015

New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 2: Kiwis vs Australians - A Lingo Lesson

After introducing you to Kiwi-land in Part 1, our guest blogger Sam Berwick is back with a lesson on common Kiwi lingo and how to really pronounce those crazy New Zealand place names. Kiwis and Australians are not the same. Antipodeans, yes; part of the same country, no. Kiwis are also not Australia...

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New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 1: Your Introduction to Kiwi-Land!
A DAY TRIP FROM AUCKLAND

08 June 2015

New Zealand through the eyes of a Brit - Part 1: Your Introduction to Kiwi-Land!

A hearty Stray welcome to guest blogger Sam Berwick, who recently arrived in New Zealand from London. As a Brit in the 'land of the long white cloud' for the first time, he now describes Kiwi culture as "funny, strange and down right crazy" and that's after only a few months! In this blog series, Sa...

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Food Tour of Ho Chi Minh City
ASIA

19 May 2015

Food Tour of Ho Chi Minh City

One of my favourite things to do in Ho Chi Minh is eat! You can’t get much better than the variety and flavours you’ll find in HCM. In fact, it’s so good I recommend devoting an entire day to eating… try this little food tour around District 1, I guarantee you’ll love it. 12pm - Lunch time! Head to ...

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Key places to See on Foot in Ho Chi Minh City. Take Yourself on a Sightseeing Walking Tour
ASIA

19 May 2015

Key places to See on Foot in Ho Chi Minh City. Take Yourself on a Sightseeing Walking Tour

Ho Chi Minh City is a busy, bustling city with so many motorbikes you would swear every man, woman and child are driving one at all times. However this city is easy to explore on foot and in my opinion, this is the best way to do it. Now before you set off on your walking tour please heed this impor...

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Move over Love Boat - another sweet Stray love story!
LOVE STORY

05 May 2015

Move over Love Boat - another sweet Stray love story!

When Stray driver Chase recently started a story with, "Two young boys from England head down to the bar with a bus driver and some girls..." we thought she was setting us up for a good joke. Turns out, Chase played Cupid and set up one of those boys with one of those girls, and this match made on a...

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The Best Places in Thailand to Celebrate Songkran
ASIA

01 April 2015

The Best Places in Thailand to Celebrate Songkran

In many countries, New Year is celebrated with fireworks but in Southeast Asia, it’s celebrated with water…and not just a splash here and there, but three days of the biggest street water fight in the world! Locals and backpackers alike take to the streets with hoses, buckets, makeshift water pistol...

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Together Stray & Kohutapu Lodge make a positive impact on local school
KOHUTAPU LODGE

04 February 2015

Together Stray & Kohutapu Lodge make a positive impact on local school

A little over a year ago Stray changed its North Island tour route to include an overnight stay at Kohutapu Lodge on the edge of Lake Aniwhenua. “Lake Anna – what?” you might be wondering. Located in the central North Island on the outskirts of a sleepy logging town called Murupara, this place is no...

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What it's like to explore the untouched and remote parts of Laos in Rick's notes from the road!
ASIA

03 February 2015

What it's like to explore the untouched and remote parts of Laos in Rick's notes from the road!

Every now and then we ask our Stray crew and passengers for their stories from the road. One of our passengers Rick kindly agreed to provide us with his travel diary from the Southern Laos tour When most people think of Laos, they think of Luang Prabang, the old French colonial capital, Vientiane, t...

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10 Reasons to visit the Bay of Islands
BAY OF ISLANDS

18 January 2015

10 Reasons to visit the Bay of Islands

One of the perks of interning for an adventure travel company is the opportunity to get out there and do really cool tours around this gorgeous country of ours. In November, we sent our lovely graphic design intern, Maartje, who hails from the Netherlands, up north to check out Paihia and the Bay of...

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Myanmar Now, Before the Crowds Arrive
ASIA

11 December 2014

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Myanmar Now, Before the Crowds Arrive

Places like Myanmar (Burma) are hard to find: long cut off from tourism, with English signs a rarity and traditional dress still the norm, even an average day here can feel like off-the-beaten-track travel. Whether you're drifting past the leg-rowers of Inle Lake, delving into the ancient temples of...

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ASIA

27 November 2014

Stray video competition - be in to win a GoPro!

Watch this video and get inspired by Stray’s epic adventures across New Zealand and Southeast Asia. We're so stoked that we're giving away a GoPro HERO to one of our lucky loyal Stray followers! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FdsTczDGCGQ Want to win? Here's what you need to do: Simply share this vi...

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ASIA

21 November 2014

The 7 Best Things to do in Chiang Mai, Thailand

Heart of northern Thailand, university town, nature hub, and artistic centre, it's difficult to argue with the claim that Chiang Mai is Thailand's coolest city. More laid-back than Bangkok and less touristed than the islands, this gem in the northern hills is a long-time favourite with travellers – ...

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Our 5 Reasons to Visit Vietnam Now! Plus the Best Tips to Make it a Trip of a Lifetime
ASIA

30 October 2014

Our 5 Reasons to Visit Vietnam Now! Plus the Best Tips to Make it a Trip of a Lifetime

Because of the sheer diversity, it's difficult to pinpoint just a few reasons to visit Vietnam. We've managed to choose 5 country-wide reasons to visit. Any more, and we'd never finish! Head to the North, and you find yourself in craggy hill tribe regions with deep Chinese and French cultural influe...

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Newsflash! Stray Asia prepares to stray into Myanmar
ASIA

13 October 2014

Newsflash! Stray Asia prepares to stray into Myanmar

We've got a new word in our Stray vocab: Mingalaba! Here at Stray, we're big fans of getting off-the-beaten-track, so we're extra excited to say 'hello' to Myanmar (Burma), the newest addition to our network of hop-on-hop-off trips in Southeast Asia. This lesser-visited country has long been closed ...

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48 Hours in Bangkok
48 HOURS

04 October 2014

48 Hours in Bangkok

Have just 48 hours in Thailand's City of Angels? Our Stray team superstar Chris Deane weighs in with his tips for a great two days! Having been living out in Asia for a few months, a common misconception I hear when speaking to travellers who have just arrived in Bangkok is they must leave the capit...

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Living the dream in Southeast Asia
ASIA

13 September 2014

Living the dream in Southeast Asia

About 4 months ago I was offered a chance to live a long-standing dream and come to live and work in Asia. Ever since I first stepped foot on Asian soil 6 years ago I have been captivated by the hustle and bustle of the big cities, enchanted by the local people and their culture, and amazed by the s...

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No Pain, No Gain! Stray does the Ultimate Challenge for a Worthy Cause
ASIA

24 August 2014

No Pain, No Gain! Stray does the Ultimate Challenge for a Worthy Cause

Get... set... go! They issued the challenge and we accepted, even if that meant a whole lot of pain! Call us crazy, we even offered to pay them for it - but it was all to raise funds for a worthy cause... On Saturday 2 August, some of the crew from our Stray Auckland office joined forces with Specfo...

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The 7 Best Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam
7 THINGS

11 August 2014

The 7 Best Things to do in Hoi An, Vietnam

There's a certain something special about Hoi An. Walking through its Old Town streets, past preserved colonial buildings painted in pale hues, lanterns that glow bright at night, flowering trees adding bursts of colour, and a pale flowing river, you'll feel a mile away from Vietnam's more chaotic c...

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The 7 Best Things to do in Siem Reap in Cambodia
ASIA

22 June 2014

The 7 Best Things to do in Siem Reap in Cambodia

Tourism in Cambodia has found a comfortable heart in Siem Reap, the gateway to the Angkor Temples and Cambodia's biggest tourist destination. From its archaeological ruins, colonial architecture, nearby jungles and wild nightlife, there's no wonder this town is unavoidable on a Southeast Asia itiner...

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Stray Passengers Find Love on the Bus
DATING SERVICE

04 May 2014

Stray Passengers Find Love on the Bus

We always like to hear that our travellers had a fantastic time with us and made heaps of friends! But finding the love of your life on the bus is truly special. Here's an email we received this week... Congrats guys! Hello Stray.... Five years ago I was travelling around Australia and New Zealand w...

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Riding the Slow Boat in Laos
ASIA

14 April 2014

Riding the Slow Boat in Laos

One of the many advantages of travelling with Stray Asia is private transportation. Along the Mekong River, Stray takes a 2-day slow boat trip, run by a local family. This allows us to travel at our own pace with plenty of room on the boat for both people and food, in stark contrast to the public bo...

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The 7 Best Things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos
ASIA

24 March 2014

The 7 Best Things to do in Vang Vieng, Laos

Ah, Vang Vieng. Few places in Southeast Asia are so preceded by their reputation. Once known as Laos’ wildest party town, Vang Vieng was a place where you could spend long days. Here are a few of our favourite things to do in Vang Vieng during your Laos tour, whether you’re a party animal or a natur...

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Gareth's Southeast Asia Induction
ASIA

06 February 2014

Gareth's Southeast Asia Induction

As a part of the training for my new job as Sales Manager in Australia, I was forced to go to Asia for two weeks... I know, tough right? But, someone has to do it! Here is a bit about my time there. Thailand My trip started in Bangkok where I was able to meet the Stray crew based there - absolute le...

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ASIA

21 January 2014

Latest Travel Advice for Thailand and Cambodia – 22 January 2014

Bangkok, Thailand There is currently political unrest in Thailand, and the Thai Government has declared a 60-day State of Emergency in Bangkok from 22 January. This allows the government the ability to impose curfews, ban gatherings and restrict access. We strongly recommend travellers avoid demonst...

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Top 5 Reasons to Visit Cambodia: from the Dark Past to the Light of Today
ASIA

18 January 2014

Top 5 Reasons to Visit Cambodia: from the Dark Past to the Light of Today

What images first come to mind when you hear the name 'Cambodia'? Whatever comes to mind, Cambodia marries a vibrant culture with a tumultuous history and makes for a fascinating part of travelling through South-East Asia on your tour of Cambodia. Do you see the stone faces of Angkor Wat staring out...

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My Vietnam Experience: Hanoi
ASIA

23 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Hanoi

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... Our final day. We arrived in the capital Hanoi on a Friday afternoon at about 4pm just in time for rush hour. This did not stop our driver from backing up about 200m on a motorway, after he...

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Welcome to Lake Aniwhenua, the newest stop for Stray
ACTIVITIES

19 December 2013

Welcome to Lake Aniwhenua, the newest stop for Stray

Kris works in our Stray head office and recently embarked on an adventure to the newest Stray stop, Lake Aniwhenua. You don’t get much more remote than this! I am a Kiwi (New Zealander, not a flightless bird) and this stop is definitely off the beaten track, even for me. To be honest, if I wasn’t tr...

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My Vietnam Experience: Mai Chau
ASIA

18 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Mai Chau

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... As we headed to Mai Chau, we were privy to a breathtaking sunset which highlighted the beauty of the surrounding valleys. We descended from a mountain pass into a valley with numerous rice ...

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My Vietnam Experience: Ninh Binh
SOUTH EAST ASIA

17 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Ninh Binh

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... We left Dong Hoi at 7am knowing that today was going to be the longest travel day of the trip. Most people slept a bit more in the van and we stopped for breakfast a couple of hours into th...

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SOUTH EAST ASIA

15 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Hue

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... The trip from Hoi An to Hue took no time at all, with a couple of noteworthy things en route. After driving along the coast past numerous resorts and casinos (apparently, these are popular ...

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My Vietnam Experience: Hoi An
ASIA

13 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Hoi An

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... The first thing to grab my attention as we drove into Hoi An at dusk where the beautiful (Chinese) lanterns dotted along the streets. Arriving in Hoi An on our trip through Vietnam, we had ...

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ASIA

13 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Introducing the Crew

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... The next day we had Naomi join us. She had been unable to start the tour with us in Ho Chi Minh because of a delay getting her visa but was now happily united with the Stray bus. This is of...

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ASIA

12 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Qui Nhon

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip... The Road to Qui Nhon Our journey took us back out on the coast and we enjoyed beautiful vistas all day. There is no such thing as a boring road trip in Vietnam but it is nice to do it in th...

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ASIA

11 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Stray's Buon Ma Thuot Homestay

Stray New Zealander Keys continues to make us all jealous as she travels on Stray's very first Vietnam tour... We got into Buon Ma Thuot by early afternoon, where the whole group would stay in a traditional house - an experience exclusive to Stray. We could tell that this village was quite unique ba...

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SOUTH EAST ASIA

10 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Vietnamese Roads and Language on the way to Buon Ma Thuot

Stray New Zealander Keys (aka Eileen) continues her travels on Stray's very first Vietnam trip..... We headed out of Dalat and eventually made our way back down to sea level. The trip took us over another mountain range with stunning views of coffee plantations as far as the eye could see. We also w...

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SOUTH EAST ASIA

09 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Dalat

Keys (aka Eileen) is a Tour Leader with Stray New Zealand, and also our Environmental Officer, based in our head office in Auckland. A keen and experienced traveller, we sent her off to Vietnam for the very first Stray trip, to explore and report back on her experience... Start of the tour: Dalat At...

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SOUTH EAST ASIA

07 December 2013

My Vietnam Experience: Pre-Stray, Ho Chi Minh City

Keys (aka Eileen) is a Tour Leader with Stray New Zealand, and also our Environmental Officer, based in our head office in Auckland. A keen and experienced traveller, we sent her off to Vietnam for the very first Stray trip, to explore and report back on her experience... Good morning Vietnam! I arr...

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A Village Homestay: Visiting Ban Lad Khammune with Stray
SOUTH EAST ASIA

25 November 2013

A Village Homestay: Visiting Ban Lad Khammune with Stray

The giggles were everywhere. They started on the concrete stairway leading up from the boat jetty. We'd just arrived at a small village along the Mekong River in Northern Laos, and the children were the first to greet us. They sat or stood in clusters underneath the blue village gate, some grinning ...

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How The Cambodian People And Culture Inspired Me
SOUTH EAST ASIA

07 October 2013

How The Cambodian People And Culture Inspired Me

Having never previously spent over 48 hours in Cambodia on tour, I was blown away on my last visit there by the people. Living in Laos for six months had provided me with a certain preconception about how the local Cambodian people would be. But as silly as saying “Germans are like the French” and “...

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Newsflash!! Stray Asia Launches Into Vietnam
SOUTH EAST ASIA

16 September 2013

Newsflash!! Stray Asia Launches Into Vietnam

Chao everyone! Stray is getting further off the beaten track, local Viet style! That’s right, Vietnam has now been added to our hop-on hop-off Southeast Asian travel network, and here in the Stray offices, we are all pretty excited about it. Holly and the Stray Asia team have been busy sussing out t...

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6 Awesome yet Weird Food You Have to Try in Southeast Asia... If You Are Brave Enough!
SOUTH EAST ASIA

29 August 2013

6 Awesome yet Weird Food You Have to Try in Southeast Asia... If You Are Brave Enough!

There's a wealth of opportunity for adventure in the food scene of Southeast Asia, and we're here to take you through some of the more... exotic options. Are you brave enough? Walkthrough any market and you'll see them. Strange bits of meat sizzling over a grill. Steaming pots with something dark an...

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5 Reasons to visit Laos, one of the least-visited countries in Southeast Asia
SOUTH EAST ASIA

07 August 2013

5 Reasons to visit Laos, one of the least-visited countries in Southeast Asia

Sometimes the greatest surprises are hidden in plain sight. Laos is one of the least-visited countries in the region - but why? Here are just a few reasons why you should visit Laos now! Laos is nestled in the heart of Southeast Asia, between Thailand, Cambodia, Vietnam, Myanmar and China. Why isn't...

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Unique Experience in Laos: Ploughing at Living Land Farm in Luang Prabang
SOUTH EAST ASIA

29 July 2013

Unique Experience in Laos: Ploughing at Living Land Farm in Luang Prabang

My bare feet squelched uncomfortably in the mud beneath me, and the milky grey water rose up to lap at my knees. With one hand on the plough, and another holding the reins, I tried to convince myself that I really was in control of the beast before me. Maybe being a rice farmer isn’t my life calling...

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SOUTH EAST ASIA

11 June 2013

More reasons than ever to Stray in Laos

Laos has been named the World’s Best Tourism Destination 2013 by the European Council on Tourism and Trade (ECTT) for its “perfect record of promoting clean, ecological and social orientated tourism”. Laos, officially the Lao People's Democratic Republic, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia bo...

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The Road from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng
SOUTH EAST ASIA

07 October 2012

The Road from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng

The journey from Luang Prabang to Vang Vieng by road is an arduous one. The broken road twists winds and climbs through the mountains, churning the stomach and rattling the bones of even the hardiest of backpackers. The drive is six to seven hours – if you’re lucky. Delays are common. Large transpor...

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Interview with Nate - Stray Asia Tour Leader
SOUTH EAST ASIA

06 October 2012

Interview with Nate - Stray Asia Tour Leader

The following is an interview with Stray Asia Tour leader “Nate” by power blogger Cindy Fan. Meet the Stray Crew Meet Nate, Stray Asia tour leader, tatted herbivore, all-around cool dude. Tour Leader – Nathaniel Home, before Straying: Australia Stray nickname: The first local Lao guide called me “ga...

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Review of Phone Noy / Stray Asia
SOUTH EAST ASIA

03 October 2012

Review of Phone Noy / Stray Asia

Cindy Fan recently travelled on Stray Asia’s Phone Noy pass through southern Laos. Describe the trip through southern Laos in one sentence. An eye-opening adventure through stunning natural landscape. You live in Laos. So why did you choose to travel with Stray? Living in Laos, you learn very quickl...

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Interview with Mr Sack - Stray Asia Local Expert
SOUTH EAST ASIA

01 October 2012

Interview with Mr Sack - Stray Asia Local Expert

The following is an interview with Stray Asia local expert “Mr Sack” by power blogger Cindy Fan. Meet the Stray Crew Meet Mr. Sack, one of the friendly faces and local experts you’ll find at our office in Luang Prabang, Laos. Mr. Sack – Sales Crew What does your name mean? In Lao, it is “teak” as in...

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Homestays: Experiencing The Real Laos
SOUTH EAST ASIA

27 September 2012

Homestays: Experiencing The Real Laos

The children huddle together in awe of the giant 6’3” figure looming over them. The giant spreads his arms, threatening to devour them in one swoop. The kids are giddy, their excitement palpable; they know what’s coming next. “My…name…IS….BAZZA!” the giant roars. The kids squeal with glee and eagerl...

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Interview with Mr Vanh - Stray Asia Guide
SOUTH EAST ASIA

27 September 2012

Interview with Mr Vanh - Stray Asia Guide

The following is an interview with Stray Asia Tour leader “Mr Vanh” by power blogger Cindy Fan. Meet the Stray Crew Meet Mr. Vanh, one of the friendly faces you’ll find at our sales office in Luang Prabang, Laos. Mr. Vanh – Sales Crew Home, before Straying: Xayaboury province, famous for its elephan...

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Interview with Mr Noy - Stray Asia Guide
SOUTH EAST ASIA

24 September 2012

Interview with Mr Noy - Stray Asia Guide

The following is an interview with Stray Asia Tour leader “Mr Noy” by power blogger Cindy Fan. Meet the Stray Crew Meet Noy, one our local guides in Laos who will entertain you with facts, stories and in-depth insight into Lao culture and history. Mr. Noy – Local Guide in Laos Home, before Straying:...

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Interview with "Spits" - Stray Asia Tour Leader
SOUTH EAST ASIA

18 September 2012

Interview with "Spits" - Stray Asia Tour Leader

The following is an interview with Stray Asia Tour leader "Spits" aka Sarah by power blogger Cindy Fan. Meet the Stray Crew Meet Sarah, one of our tour leaders there to help you have the time of your life in South East Asia. Tour Leader – Sarah Home, before Straying: England Past life: Working in Lu...

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Easy guide to voluntourism in Southeast Asia
SOUTH EAST ASIA

13 September 2012

Easy guide to voluntourism in Southeast Asia

I just stumbled across a couple of great website resource for Voluntourism - the recreation of tourism combined with volunteering work for charities and non-profits. It's called True Travellers. Keep reading for even more info about voluntourism in Southeast Asia and these guys. They have an impress...

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English teachers wanted in NE Laos
SOUTH EAST ASIA

20 August 2012

English teachers wanted in NE Laos

People often ask us whether volunteering work is available in Laos, a bit like WWOOFing for example. Our friends at Die Bambusschule (a school in NE Laos) are seeking volunteers. Interested in making a difference for the children in the rural Northeast of Laos? The Bamboo School Foundation is lookin...

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Review of Stray Asia by Helen Wooldridge
SOUTH EAST ASIA

20 December 2011

Review of Stray Asia by Helen Wooldridge

The following is a review of Stray Asia by Helen Wooldridge from Covent Garden branch of STA Travel. Describe your trip in one sentence My trip to Laos was beer-filled and beautiful, crazy but chilled! How easy is it to get there and how long does it take? We flew to Bangkok with Jet Airways and sta...

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