You can ski the Southern Alps in August or drive a speedboat on the rapids of Shotover Canyon in January. You can even go bungee jumping off the Kawarau Gorge Suspension Bridge.

There’s more to this part of New Zealand than adrenaline. We were smitten by the beauty of this place—the jagged mountains (cue the Lord of the Rings theme) and the crystalline waters of Lake Wakatipu.

Queenstown, it turns out, claims to be one of the most sustainable destinations on Earth. And since we cover tourism sustainability, we had to find out if that was true. (Spoiler: Truer that you might think.)

Question of the week: What’s the most unusual form of mass transit you’ve ever taken?

We ask because Queenstown is planning to build a gondola—yes, a gondola—from the airport to town. Tell us about your mass transit experiences, from tuk-tuks to canoes. We love your comments and will read them in our next podcast.

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Everything gets recycled here

Queenstown loves to repurpose things. Consider the TSS Earnslaw, a historic, coal-fired passenger steamship operating on Lake Wakatipu. It was launched in 1912 and decommissioned—and slated to be scrapped—in 1968. Conservation-minded citizens saved the ship, restored it, and it now carriers visitors around the lake. Now that’s what we call recycling.

Pro Tip: If you’re thinking of visiting southern New Zealand, aim for December to February for a warmer experience. The best skiing here is in August, according to insiders.

Lots of eco-lodges in Queenstown

We visited two fascinating eco-lodges in the Queenstown area. Kinloch Wilderness Retreat is a case study in respecting the past while powering the future. It featuring solar-powered “Ecoscape” huts constructed from New Zealand-sourced materials. And, like any self-respecting eco-lodge, there’s a yoga studio.

The Headwaters Eco Lodge, another eco-lodge we saw, is designed to something called the Living Building Challenge standards. It doesn’t get much greener than that. Headwaters has a massive solar garden and guest chalets with composting toilets. We talk about that in the podcast, because composting toilets is where we draw the line

What we thought of Queenstown

Queenstown is stunning, a little pricey, and exhausting. It’s a city that prides itself on being the ultimate playground, but seasoned traveler will see past the high-gloss world of its tourism machine and see the pristine beauty of the place. And they’ll appreciate the way its tourism officials are trying to keep their destination sustainable for future generations of visitors.

Don’t forget our question of the week: What’s the most unusual form of public transport you’ve ever taken? Our top commenter gets a free one-year subscription to Elliott Confidential, our sister newsletter.

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Where’s the fluffiest pita in the Southern Hemisphere?

Our first stop was Caulfield, home to one of the largest Jewish diasporas in Australia. We found ourselves at The Pita Man, where the pitas have the texture of a cloud. They remind me of the ones we had when we were in Jerusalem a few years ago. The falafel here is crisp and perfectly seasoned with Amba sauce.

Pro tip: If you’re there on a Friday morning, grab a babka. It’s a layered masterpiece that is worth every calorie. (We’ll show you what we mean in the podcast.)

A Greek odyssey in Oakleigh

Next, we hopped a tram to Oakleigh. You can’t walk a block here without seeing signs in Greek. We stepped into Nikos Quality Cakes, a local institution that has been serving up traditional treats for decades. The display cases are full of honey, nuts, and phyllo dough. We sampled the melomakarona. These are honey and walnut cookies that are light and dangerously addictive. The boys even found a vegan-friendly carrot cupcake that ended up being our favorite.

Pro tip: In Oakleigh, the coffee is as important as the pastry. Greek coffee is finely ground coffee boiled in a small pot called a briki and served unfiltered. It’s the perfect companion to a honey cookie.

The banh mis and baos of Windsor

We rounded out our food tour in Windsor, a neighborhood known for its high density of Vietnamese restaurants. At Madam Saigon, the banh mi is all about texture: a crusty baguette filled with crispy tofu and pickled vegetables. One afternoon, we just sat there and kept ordering food, it was so good. (There goes our food budget!)

Beyond the plate: Meeting the locals at Mt. Rothwell

The trip was about more than eating. We took a detour to the Mt. Rothwell Biodiversity Interpretation Centre (here’s my story about it for Forbes).

This is a sanctuary dedicated to protecting some of Australia’s most endangered species. Meeting the Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies was a highlight for Aren and Iden. These curious, tiny creatures are only about two feet tall. But they’re vital to the ecosystem. Managing these populations is a delicate balance. Our visit was a sobering reminder that while we enjoy the flavors of a city, the natural world around it requires our constant attention.

What’s our verdict on Melbourne?

Melbourne is a city that prides itself on its layers. It is sophisticated, slightly edgy, and deeply committed to its cultural roots. You might go for the coffee, the pitas, or the wallabies (please, don’t try to eat them). Either way, you will find a city that is constantly reimagining itself while staying true to its heritage.

The only downside? The weather. One minute you’re enjoying a coffee in the sun, and the next, an Antarctic blast nearly knocks your pastry into the gutter.

Question of the week: What is the most exotic animal you’ve ever eaten? (Bonus points if you tell us where!) The top commenter this week gets a free one-year subscription to Elliott Confidential.

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But is it the world’s most interesting city? Hmmm, let’s find out …

Architecture born of necessity

Christchurch’s skyline is a curious blend of the old and the new. Following a series of devastating earthquakes, the city has seen a surge in “AutoCAD chic” architecture—modern, functional, and visually arresting. These buildings, designed for both style and seismic safety, give the city a forward-looking feel.

Cultural context: The city’s rebuilding hasn’t just been about steel and glass. It’s also about honoring the past and the Māori heritage of the region, which is thoughtfully integrated into many of the new public spaces.

💬 Our question of the week: What’s the LEAST exciting destination you’ve ever visited?

We adore your comments, and read them on every podcast. This week we’d like to know about the most boring city you’ve ever been to. Tell us about the place you’ve already forgotten about … if you can still remember it. Our top commenter gets a free one-year subscription to Elliott Confidential, our sister newsletter.

Let’s eat!

The food scene in Christchurch is impressive. The always-crowded Riverside Market, with its diverse range of vendors, is a must-visit for anyone looking for a new culinary experience. Traditional New Zealand fare, Asian food, great coffee—they’ve got it all.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss Base Pizza in the Riverside Market. Their wood-fired pizzas are some of the best in the city, and the atmosphere is always buzzing. For a truly world-class coffee experience, head to Espresso Studio. The long black (like an Americano) is our favorite.

Sustainability is at the heart of the city (and so is Oscar)

One of the most impressive things about Christchurch is its commitment to sustainability. Take the Te Pae Convention Center, for instance. As a certified carbon-neutral facility, it’s leading the way in sustainable event management. Here’s my Forbes story about the center.

If you’re at Te Pae, keep an eye out for Oscar, the trash compactor. It’s a great example of how the city is using technology to reduce its environmental impact.

Sometimes, you have to stop and … well, you know

Hagley Park is the beloved centerpiece of Christchurch. Its botanical gardens are a stunning display of New Zealand’s diverse flora. Iden just had to stop and smell the roses (more on that in the podcast).

Christchurch is a city that has taken its challenges and turned them into opportunities. It’s a place that’s full of surprises, and its special blend of history, innovation, and natural beauty makes it a must-visit destination. (This isn’t our first time.)

OK, maybe it’s not the world’s most exciting destination, but that’s the way they like it here.

Don’t forget our question of the week: What’s the most boring destination you’ve ever been to? Let us know in the comments! The top commenter gets a free one-year subscription to Elliott Confidential.

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Technically, it’s late summer here, but the Antarctic gusts didn’t get that memo. We nearly got swept into traffic a time or two, and locals joke that if you stand between two buildings at the wrong time, the wind might knock you down. You really have to watch out.

Our question of the week: What’s the most traumatic weather experience you’ve ever had?

We love your comments, and read them on every podcast. This week we’d like to know about your most traumatic weather experience. Have you ever been swept away by a storm or snowed under by a blizzard? Our top commenter gets a free one-year subscription to Elliott Confidential, our sister newsletter.

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A colossal catch at Te Papa

If Wellington has a spiritual center, it’s the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa. We spent hours wandering through its halls, coming face-to-face with the world’s only intact colossal squid—a massive, oil-preserved specimen that will keep you out of the water.

But the museum isn’t just about the deep sea. It’s also a deep dive into the heritage of the Māori and Moriori people. We marveled at the whaka (traditional boats) and the intricate Rongo Marae Roa meeting place.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Gallipoli exhibit by Weta Workshop. The wax sculptures are 2½ times life-size and shockingly realistic—it’s an unforgettable, emotional gut-punch.

Radical kindness at Everybody Eats

One of the most impactful stops on our trip was a restaurant called Everybody Eats, located just off the vibrant Cuba Street, where we lived. This isn’t your typical bistro. It’s a mission-driven space that rescues food from grocery stores and transforms it into three-course meals. (I wrote more about it in Forbes.)

The concept is pay-as-you’re-able, ensuring that everyone—from travelers to those experiencing homelessness—can sit down to a high-quality meal. They are even turning banana peels into banana sugar in a quest for zero waste. It’s a beautiful, chaotic, and deeply human heart in the center of the city.

Heights, harbors, and high-stakes landings

To truly see Wellington, you have to get above it. We took the iconic Wellington Cable Car from the Central Business District up to the Botanic Gardens. The view from the top is a panoramic sweep of the city and the harbor, nearly rivaling the vistas from Mount Victoria.

From the Mount Victoria lookout, you can watch the planes landing at Wellington Airport. Because of the fierce northwesterly winds, pilots often have to bring the planes in sideways—it’s a spectator sport for the brave and a nerve-wracking reality for the passengers.

Pro Tip: If you find yourself in the capital on a Sunday morning, head down to the waterfront for the Harbourside Market next to Te Papa. It’s the oldest and most popular market in the city, and even in a cold summer, the atmosphere is electric with live music and the smell of roasting coffee. While the seasonal produce is world-class, the real move is to grab a hot snack from one of the many food trucks and huddle behind a concrete barrier to enjoy it out of the gale. (Just keep a firm grip on your compostable plate, or your breakfast will become a high-altitude snack for the seagulls.)

Our verdict on New Zealand’s capital

This is a city that rewards the curious. Whether you’re getting caffeinated on Cuba Street watching manta rays glide through the harbor, or eating vegan pastries from Vonuts that taste like a sugary dream, Wellington never stops moving.

Our next stop is Christchurch, New Zealand, but we’re leaving a piece of our hearts—and probably a few umbrellas—behind in the wind.

Don’t forget this week’s question: What’s your most traumatic weather experience? We’re giving away a one-year gift subscription!

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New Zealand’s seasons are famously temperamental. Technically, the calendar says summer, but the air begs to differ. It’s a hoodie-and-shorts kind of weather.

It’s been a minute

We made a few changes to our newsletter. We’ve merged Elliott Advocacy and Elliott Confidential into a single newsletter called Elliott Confidential. Our Substack newsletter (the one you’re reading) will exclusively feature our podcast. You can also subscribe to our new YouTube channel.

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The jacarandas are in full, explosive bloom, painting the streets in a hazy lilac that makes the city feel like an impressionist painting. But there’s still that sharp, Antarctic-derived chill in the morning that reminds you that you’re on an island at the edge of the world.

We spent the mornings wandering the Viaduct Harbor, where luxury yachts the size of small destroyers bob in the harbor, their hulls polished to a mirror finish. But Auckland has a funny way of checking its own ego. Just as you’re admiring an overpriced vessel, you hit the Wynyard Crossing. This pedestrian bridge is the city’s favorite comedy of errors—it always seems to be broken for repairs.

The waterfront isn’t just for the elite, though. Beneath the shadow of the masts, you’ll find the real Auckland. Local kids on rental scooters weave through the tourists, their portable speakers blaring a mix of Pasifika hip-hop and chart-toppers. This is the stage for the Sailing Grand Prix, an event that has transformed the harbor into a high-stakes, wind-powered arena. It’s fast, it’s loud, and it’s surprisingly gritty for a sport usually associated with blue blazers and gin-and-tonics.

If Auckland has a spiritual home, it might be the bread oven at Amano. Travel, for us, is defined by the quest for the perfect loaf, and we found it in their kumara sourdough. Kumara is the native New Zealand sweet potato, and when it’s folded into a fermented dough, something magical happens. The crust is dark and caramelized, while the inside is soft, purple-hued, and slightly sweet. We usually try to avoid processed carbs, but for this bread, we would fly another 18 hours.

Jet lag is the tax you pay for visiting Auckland, and we were deep in the red. Our salvation was the Espresso Workshop in Britomart. New Zealanders take their coffee with a religious intensity, and the “long black” here is a sacrament. I ordered a triple-shot that smelled like old leather and dark chocolate. I told Iden that if this didn’t wake me up, I’d likely need CPR. Luckily, it did the trick, jolting me back to life.

There’s a beautiful slowness to Auckland, especially during the summer holidays. Of course, that tempo extends to the infrastructure—we arrived just as the entire train network shut down for renovations. But even in the disruption, there’s progress. The “tap-to-pay” system is a dream for travelers. No more hunting for “AT Hop” cards; you just tap your credit card and hop on a bus. It’s a preview of a frictionless future in a city that still values its heritage.

This is our third visit in three years, and people often ask why we keep coming back to the same harbor. The answer is in the podcast: it’s the way the light hits the water in the afternoon, the smell of the sourdough, and the feeling that you’re always just one boat ride away from an adventure.

But the clock is ticking on our stay. Next, we’re heading south to Wellington to see if the coffee there can truly compete with Auckland’s best. Stay tuned.

We’d love to hear your comments. As always, we’ll read them on a future podcast.

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Happy New Year. And if you’re renting a car, hold on to your wallet.

You’ve probably seen the headlines about rising travel costs (more on that in a minute). Airlines are inventing new ways to charge you for just about everything that used to be included in your ticket price. Hotels have “destination fees” that cover things you didn’t know you needed, like local phone calls.

But the most egregious money grab is happening right at the car rental counter—and almost no one is talking about it.

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Of all the annoying things couples do when they travel, the coerced seat swap may be the worst.

Kirstyn Allen saw it on a recent flight from Atlanta to the Caribbean island of St. Maarten. Two newlyweds boarded the plane after her and pressured another passenger to surrender her assigned seat so they could be together.

The displaced passenger sat down nex…

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Here’s a travel tip you won’t find in the airline safety briefing: Don’t drink the water.

For years, seasoned flyers have adhered to the “coffee pot” rule—never order a beverage that comes from a tank. Flight attendants know it. They won’t touch the stuff. Now, new research confirms our collective paranoia.

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The U.S. military operation in Venezuela triggered temporary airspace closures and flight cancellations across the southern Caribbean this weekend, but the situation is quickly returning to normal.

Travelers with upcoming trips to islands near the Venezuelan coast still face lingering delays as airlines work to clear the backlog following the capture of President Nicolás Maduro.

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To get an idea of how forgetful travelers have become lately, consider what happened to Ally Murphy and her husband on a recent flight from London to Atlanta.

After collecting their luggage, they caught a shuttle to their hotel.

“After boarding the bus, I realized I had forgotten one suitcase,” recalls Murphy, a voiceover artist based in Seattle. She retu…

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Ignore the usual year-end predictions—the hot destinations, the airfare trends, the hidden travel fees. The only thing you need to know about travel in 2026 is this: Agentic AI will touch every trip you take.

What’s that? Well, think of agentic AI as the next version of today’s chatbots. Generative AI summarizes but agentic AI acts. It’s the difference b…

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Somewhere between the unexpectedly comfortable economy class seat on a discount Korean airline flight and the silence of an early morning in Christchurch’s Riccarton neighborhood, it hit me: The revenge travel crowds have finally dispersed. Travel is back to normal.

I thought…

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The rumors of Spirit Airlines’ demise have been greatly exaggerated, to paraphrase Mark Twain.

Headlines were swirling this weekend that the ultra-low-cost carrier was on the brink of liquidation. But those proved to just be rumors as of late Sunday evening.

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One of the newest mistakes travelers make is also one of the oldest: forgetting their paperwork.

It happened to Katharine Nohr when she tried to fly to New Zealand. Nohr, an attorney from Honolulu, was so used to traveling to Europe that she assumed she didn’t need a visa to enter New Zealand.

But she did.

“I couldn’t check in for my flight,” she remembers…

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If you’re planning a trip to the United States from a visa-waiver country, your pre-trip checklist might soon include covering your digital tracks.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has proposed a rule change that would require travelers from 42 countries—including close allies like the UK, France, Japan, and Australia—to disclose their social media handles from the past five years to enter the country.

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You know the drill. You’re on a plane, stuck at the gate. The pilot says it’s a “mechanical” delay. You wait for hours. Finally, they usher you off the aircraft and hand you a voucher that pays for half a cold sandwich.

Sens. Edward J. Markey (D-Mass), Mark Kelly (D-Ariz.), and Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) think you deserve better.

Specifically, they think you deserve cash.

The lawmakers have introduced legislation that would force airlines to pay passengers for delays and cancellations, modeling the rules after the European Union’s EC 261.

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I’m still wondering how I ended up in seat 18E — a middle seat — on a Hong Kong Express flight from Phuket, Thailand, to Hong Kong. But it was an extreme inconvenience.

I was wedged in with just 28 inches of pitch between seats, which is about two inches less than normal. The plane smelled like mildew and body odor, and the seats looked threadbare. I tho…

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Bula from Fiji!

We’ve just returned from a whirlwind tour of these South Pacific islands. And we saw a lot.

Before we get into it, here’s this week’s question: What is your favorite island? It’s that time of year when everyone is thinking of visiting a warmer place, so please cast your vote in the comments.

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Ah, the famous overwater bungalows! We didn’t stay in them, but they sure took a nice picture. These accommodations are at Likuliku Lagoon Resort on Malolo, one of the islands we visited that’s trying to protect the endangered iguanas.

We were honored to visit a part of Fiji few visitors get to see, deep inland. These rivers are teeming with fish and other wildlife. We saw this during our visit to Nanuku Resort, a property that specializes in authentic experiences.

A kava ceremony at Six Senses Fiji. This is one of the most important rituals in Fiji, but be warned: Kava can be a little bit intoxicating.

Today’s podcast looks a little different. Iden just finished his MA in communication from the University of Florida and is putting his editing skills to good use for our reformatted podcast. I hope you like it!

Hey, don’t forget our question of the week: What’s your favorite island?

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Looks like the government has finally found a way to monetize your procrastination.

After years of delaying the Real ID deadline—a saga that has dragged on longer than a Marvel movie franchise—the Transportation Security Administration has announced a new policy for travelers who still don’t have a compliant license.

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It’s not fear driving Harry Wenkert to make a “must-have” travel purchase for 2026. It’s peace of mind, he says.

“I have a parent who is 94 years old and living in a long-term care facility,” says Wenkert, a retired pharmaceutical industry marketer from Pittsburgh. “I’m also concerned about having enough medical and evacuation insurance coverage.”

As trav…

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