PVG - AKL
My trip from Shanghai to New Zealand nearly didn't happen. I got to the airport early with four dear friends in tow to see me off. I went up to the counter, ready to start my new adventure, but was unable to check in because I hadn't booked my flight from New Zealand to Australia. I had wanted to have some flexibility with my travel dates, but apparently too many people go and never leave, so I was not able to check in until they knew I was getting off the island within a reasonable amount of time. Let's be honest, this is not the first time this has happened to me, but it's usually the host of a party making sure I am leaving and not a country. Thankfully, my friend Jane had a phone with internet and was able to help me book a flight. If they had not been there, I do not know what I would have done!
*Who blogs about a trip more than two years later, you ask? Generally I find it to be older people who just figured out how to use technology, and maladjusted young adults. Cheers.
Maryclaire, a Spangle relative I had never previously met, picked me up at the airport and graciously allowed me to stay with her and her husband in their beautiful home in Auckland. I met her father, my first cousin twice-removed, and his wife, as well as MC's two children. I have been blessed to make friends with people all over the world, but there was something so special about meeting family who lived so far away. I enjoyed some wonderful meals with them and got excellent advice about the rest of my journey. It was Maryclaire who pushed me to sign up for a hop-on and off bus, which I was initially resistant to, but it became one of the best decisions I made. In the end, I repaid their kindness and generosity by accidentally stealing their extra house key. The Catholic guilt I felt about that one, I tell you. Thankfully, the key made it back, and MC and I are still Facebook friends so I hope she has forgiven me.
New Zealand is easily the most beautiful country I have ever visited. I highly recommend it. My pictures don't do it justice, especially since I didn't even bother to edit most of these. I mean I'm posting about this two and a half years after the trip, so this is clearly not a high priority for me. Check back for Insta-enhanced photos in another two.