Inside tips
Portugal’s second city Porto exudes faded glam. After checking out its goldleaf-laced churches in the medieval centre, head to the seaside suburbs for a slice of local life at the growing collection of restaurants, bars and cafes. Eat at Flor da Laranja in Lisbon’s Bairro Alto area for the best Moroccan food and a food experience that’s unforgettable, recommends Stuff travel director Trupti Biradar. Casablancaborn Rabea Esserghini is a one-woman show. She’s the hostess, the waitress, the cook and the owner.
Brisbane and the Gold Coast
It’s not surprising that trips across the ditch to Australia are the most common holiday destinations for Kiwis. Data from Wotif shows 36 per cent of travellers crossed the Tasman last year.
But if you think you know Brissie and the Gold Coast, a visit in 2018 may well challenge your assumptions. In the lead-up to the Commonwealth Games in 2018, both have benefited from significant investment.
‘‘Brisbane, in particular, has really upped its game on being familyfriendly with Streets Beach (perfect for small swimmers), the Lone Pine Sanctuary (where you can cuddle a koala) and the tree-house playground in New Farm Park all great options for young families,’’ Zeiher says.
But it’s the Queensland Art Gallery and Gallery of Modern Art (QAGOMA) that has become a serious contender for the best cultural experience for kids in Australia.
‘‘QAGOMA offers sessions for children demystifying Aboriginal art and provides interactive installations and activities for kids of all ages.’’
While the some 52 kilometres of squeaky white sand and legendary surf breaks will always remain one of the Gold Coast’s biggest draws, Kiwis are also seeking out its lesser-known delights. Most notably, in the subtropical rainforest of the Hinterland. Unesco-listed Lamington National Park, with its more than 160km of walking trails, is a highlight.
Inside tip
Daniel Finch, Wotif’s managing director, recommends a stay at Paradise Country Farmstay. ‘‘This hidden gem located in the Gold Coast Hinterland will showcase a different side to the Gold Coast for couples and families,’’ he says.
Namibia
Underrated Namibia is one of the best spots in southern Africa for adventure lovers, says Zeiher.
Explore the sand dunes surrounding the coastal city of Swakopmund by fatwheel bike, see the Namib Desert from on high with a tandem sky dive, or kayak among the seals of Cape Cross Seal Reserve, he suggests.
‘‘There’s a reason producers of Mad Max Fury Road chose this under-theradar country to provide the backdrop for their post-apocalyptic film.’’
Inside tips
For wildlife watching, Etosha National Park – home to elephants, big cats, black rhinos and plains game – is a standout. Track black rhino on foot or as part of a game drive in Damaraland, where the endangered species are free to roam as they please.