21.01.2020 - Singapore to Queenstown via Sydney

We depart from Singapore in the evening, have an 8-hour flight where we can watch a movie, have dinner, breakfast, and even sleep in between. The beer during dinner takes care of that!

We land in Sydney with a 3-hour layover. We don't notice anything about the bushfires in Australia, but unfortunately, we sit in the middle row. Then we fly another 3 hours to Queenstown.

So far, everything has been completely uncomplicated. But now comes the strict baggage control for biodiversity. However, we have to realize that my suitcase did not arrive!! Oh no, what now. So first, we need to inform and confirm! Luckily, I packed the essentials in my carry-on, so I can get by for another day, but then??? So, let's wait and see.

We pick up our rental car - a Suzuki SUV. Very nice! And Reinhard once again earns my full admiration for his ability to drive on the right side of the road!

Queenstown is also known as the St. Moritz of New Zealand and was built in honor of Queen Victoria. Its location on the beautiful Lake Wakatipu, nestled among the dramatic mountain ranges of the neighboring Remarkables, makes the city a magical attraction.

We arrive at our first bed & breakfast around 3:00 PM. Very nice, clean, and cozy! The Chalet Queenstown Bed & Breakfast is only a few minutes away from the bustling center of Queenstown, yet it is located in a quiet area. It is an accommodation that reminds me a little of Switzerland. After freshening up, we drive into town. The weather is ideal with sunshine and around 23 degrees. Queenstown lives up to its reputation as a young and vibrant city. People of our age are rare, and it feels like everyone is on vacation! We take a walk through the park by the lake. Here, we discover a new sport: forest Frisbee with starting points, throwing lanes, and goal posts. It is said that New Zealanders are crazy about outdoor sports. We admire the huge mountains, the enormous lake, and then, back in town, a Swedish street artist who is really good. For dinner, we have delicious fish and chips by the lake. And afterwards, a beer to finish it off.

And we realize that everything is really expensive here. The beer costs $10 and the ice cream as well!! So, we will have to be careful with our travel budget!!!

Back in the room, we write to friends and family and sleep soundly until the next morning.