1. Roys Peak, Wanaka

Enjoying the insane view from Mount Roy. Isn't it so much better in the snow?

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Aug 15, 2016 at 12:25pm PDT

2. Mount Taranaki, Egmont National Park

The sun kissing Mount Taranaki goodnight. Love the warm feeling – although it was very cold that evening . . #NewZealand #AdventureThisWay #nofilter #taranaki

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Aug 9, 2016 at 12:08pm PDT

3. Mount Cook, Mackenzie

Mount Cook on fire. One of those moments you go crazy with your camera and take hundreds of photos! . . #NewZealand #AdventureThisWay #nofilter #ig_newzealand #NZmustDo #gottalovenz #whateveryouradventure #opentheworld

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Sep 19, 2016 at 11:51am PDT

4. Lake Matheson, West Coast

View on Mount Cook from Lake Matheson A little walk around the lake to reach this #perfect spot. And if then the wind disappears at #sunset and you get awesome reflections you feel like the luckiest person on the planet (together with all those other photographers..). . . . . #newzealand #canon #nofilter #lakematheson #mountcook #reflections #lake #westcoast

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Mar 15, 2016 at 10:33pm PDT

5. Abel Tasman National Park, Tasman

Abel Tasman National Park is a lot of #beautiful golden beaches, but it is also has an impressive native lush #forest – and I love it! Look how this swing bridge is disappearing in the green! That mix of nature and mix of activities makes Abel Tasman a great day out. // @thekiwifrog . . #AdventureThisWay #NewZealand

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Jul 5, 2016 at 12:32pm PDT

6. Hokitika Gorge, Hokitika

Hokitika gorges. This is a very short walk to the Hokitika Gorge. The track down to the river is through west coast native bush. The first thing you notice is the blue green color of the Hokitika River coming from the reflection of the sky in the water rich in silicates. Pretty. . #NewZealand #westcoast

A photo posted by Nico (@thekiwifrog) on Jul 13, 2016 at 12:10pm PDT

7. Redwood Forest, Rotorua

The Redwood forest in #Rotorua is a great place to explore. The trees are massive! : @thekiwifrog

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Oct 6, 2016 at 11:49am PDT

8. Cromwell, Central Otago (in autumn)

Cromwell in autumn . . . . #NewZealand #nofilter #autumn #fall #cromwell #IamNZ

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on May 20, 2016 at 10:56pm PDT

9. Milford Sound, Fiordland

Sunset in Milford Sound . One of those perfect sunset when the wind stops just before the sun sets behind Mitre Peak, allowing for some great reflections. I particularly like how the light reflects on the mist created by the waterfall in the background.

A photo posted by Nico (@thekiwifrog) on Jul 4, 2016 at 12:11pm PDT

10. Piha, Auckland

Who else loves the wild waves of the #ocean? Taken in Piha, a popular surfing spot in the North Island. . #NewZealand #AdventureThisWay #nofilter #piha #pihabeach #beach

A photo posted by LIESELOT (LIS) (@theworldisacircus) on Jul 28, 2016 at 12:20pm PDT

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That was also the case when I visited Skippers Canyon in Queenstown. It’s an impressive canyon with a small gravel road. My heart already missed a few beats when driving so close to the edge of the road, and I was just the passenger. Luckily, ’cause I don’t think driving with your eyes closed would work.

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Are you still here? Not scared away by the previous alinea? Great, you won’t regret it.

The view from Roys Peak is just unbeatable. It’s New Zealand at its best and it has to be on your list when travelling around the country. Why? Because it is crazy beautiful and easy accessible. You do need to do a bit of effort to get those stunning views. It is about 6km to reach the top and you’ll cover 1,578m in height. Sore legs salute you!

The panorama from the summit includes most of Lake Wanaka, the surrounding peaks and Mount Aspiring. I promise you will have a big smile on your face. I do suggest you try to spice it up a bit, and be different from the main stream tourist.

You can catch a sunrise on top of Mount Roy. There are fewer people around (because who likes getting up at 3am…). I did this at the end of summer and it turned out to be an unforgettable experience. You get up early and start walking. The feeling you get when the sun pops over the mountains is incredible – and the views are yeah you know… Beautiful.

Curious how the sunrise walk ended? Here’s a video I made about the sunrise walk: https://theworldisacircus.com/2016/04/28/video-walking-roys-peak-in-wanaka/

Another option is to enjoy a sunset at the top. Most tourists leave before it is too dark to go down. You just have to take your head torch, some warm clothes and you can enjoy the sun disappearing. I did this last weekend in the SNOW – yay!

And last but not least you can take some props up the mountain and have a bit of a photo shoot. I decided to take balloons up, because I wanted some pictures for The World is a Circus. It turned out to be such a cool shoot with pretty cool pictures.

If there is one ultimate tip I can give you is to climb this mountain in winter. There will be fewer people and everything just looks so much better covered in snow. Don’t you think so?

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I don’t know why, but I just love the view of a house in a square, with an entrance gate and a patio in the middle.  I guess I’ll need a lot of money before I can make that dream come true. But I just love the set up. That’s one of the first reasons why I fell in love with Kasteelhoeve Wange.

The farm chateau is a little green paradise lost in the Belgian countryside. It has a lot of charm, keeping the history of the farm alive and visible. Did you know “Chateau de Wanghe” has been around since the 13th century?! Unfortunately it got destroyed at one point, and this version was rebuilt in the 17th century, when warlords and generals would stay here to prepare for battle!

I was so lucky to spend a weekend at the farm during my recent holidays in Belgium. My friend Eline was getting married in the idyllic countryside and decided to gather the family and best friends together for a cosy stay at Kasteelhoeve Wange. Very good decision Eline!

I love how the farm incorporates the mix of history and modern. The building is historic and a bit rusty outside and neat, simple and classy inside. The farm is lost in nature and surrounded by acres of orchards and fields and there even the odd horse that likes to say hello.

But isn’t only visually beautiful, it is also sustainable. And that’s where it differentiates from other hotels. It has even been awarded as the most sustainable hotel in Europe in 2016. The focus of this years’ award was on water waste management and Kasteelhoeve Wange does that splendidly!

The farm purifies its wastewater with a biological treatment plant. Waste water is purified in an entirely natural way. They also have a basin of 100,000 litres which collects the rainwater. And in the courtyard there is a natural spring, producing roughly 7,500 litres of water every day. This way they reduce the environmental impact of a guest’s stay. I think they definitely deserved that award!

The rainwater that has been captured is used for the natural swimming pond. And it is cleaned by special plants in the pont, isn’t that amazing? It’s not only ecological, it’s also beautiful. It’s a win win!

Oh and before I forget: the breakfast is delicious!! Everything organic and just yum!! Fresh eggs, home made jam and bread, fresh fruit, what do you want more when waking up in the countryside?

If you’re looking to escape for a weekend of busy life and open to some tranquillity and quietness, this is the place to be. Re-energise or have a lovely weekend away with family and friends.

Have you stayed at sustainable hotels before? Is it important for you that your accommodation cares about nature?

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In 2011 almost 80% of the Christchurch’s city center was damaged after an earthquake. Most of it got demolished – which left Christchurch empty and a little bit dead. Five years later there are still many empty spaces (turned into car parks) and abandoned buildings in town, which doesn’t always make the city look very attractive in tourists’ eyes.

But Christchurch has taken this rebuild as an opportunity to make the city even better than it was before. So many cool and quirky places are popping up and there really is quite a lot to do in Christchurch.

I went on a little mission to show you some of the good spots! If you want a longer list, have a look here: No, Christchurch is not dead.

WATCH VIDEO DISCOVER CHRISTCHURCH:

[youtube https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1DWwz-M8_og&w=560&h=315]

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Christchurch was hit hard by earthquakes in 2010 and 2011. To give you an idea: almost 80% of the city centre was damaged and had to be demolished. Can you imagine? Now, 5 years later there are still many empty spaces (turned into car parks) and abandoned buildings in town, which doesn’t make the city look very attractive in tourists’ eyes.

But – and there is a huge but – Christchurch has taken this rebuild as an opportunity to make the city even better than it was before. They are not just rebuilding the city, they are making it the best version possible. Christchurch has been through a lot of pain and loss, but this rebuild gives hope and is seen as a second and unique chance to start all over again. And they’re doing such a good job.

Every day the city is looking better and cool and quirky places keep popping up. To all the tourists who are just flying in and out of Christchurch: The city is not dead! Have a look yourself and spend an amazing weekend in Christchurch.

1. Shop til you drop at The Tannery 

The Tannery is a Boutique Shopping Mall on the banks of the Heathcote River, on the outskirts of Christchurch.

It catches the eye with its industrial look and unique architecture – on the outside and inside! It’s super quirky, eclectic and a great place to wander around. There are more than 50 boutique shops and there’s even a deluxe cinema!

The Tannery is the place to be for clothes, art, antiques, book shops and so much more. You’ll find shops that yo do not find in the large city malls. There are also a few cafes to relax after hopping from shop to shop, or try a craft beer in The Brewery!

Extra tip: definitely try a croissant at the Tanner Street Bakery right across the main building. You won’t regret it!

2. Wander around at Lyttelton market

We are lucky in Christchurch, there are a lot of markets around. My favourite one is Lyttelton Farmers market next to Lyttelton port and only a 15 minute drive away from the central city. Lyttelton got struck quite hard by the earthquakes, but the strong and funky community managed to restore its charm. Lyttelton is now an artsy little town with cool bars and cafes.

The Farmers Market, which is community run, offers a variety of fresh vegetables, delicious fresh cheese, bread, juices or even a Japanese pancake, all in the main street (London Street). But what I love most – and is also very important – the atmosphere is right on. There are a few musicians positioned along the street, they play great tunes and they make people dance. Everyone is infecting each other with their happiness and that just puts a big dorky smile on my face.

No plans on a Saturday morning? Visit Lyttelton Farmers Market, because local food just tastes better! Every Saturday from 10 to 1pm.

3. Brunch at Hello Sunday

First of all I’d like to share my love for the name Hello Sunday. Quirky, cute and clever, all things we like! I was a bit naughty and went to Hello Sunday on a Saturday… And I was not the only one.

This place is very popular and the tables are (almost) all the time full. Make sure to book a table or you might have to take away. Don’t be put off by the small and busy area when you enter, there is another cosy larger room and courtyard in the back.

Hello Sunday offers coffee, cakes and delicious brunch. Imagine all that fantastic food in a beautiful old building. Did you know that it used to be a Post Office in the 18th century?

Granola, quinoa salad, savoury crumpets or the traditional eggs benny, you’ll find it all. The chef also pays a lot of attention to the presentation, which makes the food look even better (if that was even possible).

4. Get lost in the botanical gardens

If you want to stretch your legs, pay a visit to the Botanical Garden. Just make sure you’re not afraid of Pokemon hunters, because there are many. A walk in the quiet and peaceful area of 30 hectares is a perfect morning or afternoon activity! You can even make a full day activity out of it by visiting the Canterbury Museum, which is just next doors.

For the people who are on a lower budget and are looking for a free activity – this is it! In Summer it is blooming with all kind of flowers you haven’t even heard of and in Winter it’ super peaceful. Don’t forget to check out the Ilex cafe, its architecture will blow your mind!

If plants and huge trees are not your thing: you have still the Pokémon.

5. Find the perfect gifts at Re:Start Mall

Update 2018: Unfortunately the container mall doesn’t exist anymore. The mall was only temporary and has been replaced by new buildings. 

Have you every been shopping in containers? Here’s your chance at the Re:Start Mall – also known as the container mall. It’s one of many creative and original ways how Christchurch reacted after the earthquakes. Many cool and quirky projects turned up and Re:Start Mall was one of them.

The central city was severely hit by the earthquakes, and the city council knew the wait for new buildings would be too long. So a container mall was the solution. People needed to be encouraged back into the central city as soon as possible – and it worked!

It turned out to be a colourful collection of funky shipping containers that definitely brought new life into Christchurch. There are now more than 50 businesses. You’ll find gift stores, fashion boutiques, food, coffee, and even banks and a Post Office.

6. Catch a movie at Alice Cinemateque

Alice Cinematique is actually a video rental shop – yes they still exist – with an almost unnoticeable door left of the counter. That door leads you into a magical Egyptian style theatre! There is only one room and the luxurious dark red seats and Pharaoh statues make you feel in a different world.

The 38 seat cinema focusses mostly on art house movies and documentaries. You sit, relax, enjoy and afterwards you go for a stroll between the DVD’s or go for a drink at neighbouring cafe C1. And that’s how you enjoy a night out in Christchurch!

7. Discover the newest exhibitions at the Christchurch Art Gallery

The Christchurch Art Gallery has seen many lives. After the earthquakes it was turned into an emergency headquarters, then it provided temporary accommodation for Christchurch City Council staff and it also has undergone intensive repairs.

The public art gallery finally reopened last December! There are more than 20 exhibitions and installations to choose from and all of that in beautiful exhibition rooms. I also love the light and bright entrance. When you’re walking up the stairs, check out the art right above you!

The gallery is now one of the safest buildings in Christchurch and can deal with seismic events, which is very important to ensure the safety of the collection and its visitors. I also helps to secure the loan of art from around the world, art owners and insurers now have peace of mind that the art will be safe.

Entry is free and on Wednesday nights the gallery is open until 9pm.

8. Feel like a royal in Isaac Theatre Royal

This 100-year-old beautiful building has been through a lot. As many buildings in town, the Isaac Theatre Royal was severely damaged by the earthquakes. It took 3,5 years to restore and rebuild it and now it looks as glamorous as ever.

The beautifully restored heritage theatre re-opened on 17 November 2014 and is 100% safe if a new earthquake would hit the city. The engineers said that’s the place they would hide during an earthquake,that must mean something!

I just love going to the Isaac Theatre.  It’s such a classy venue and the attention to detail adds to the theatres ambience. Don’t forget to look up in the auditorium, the ceiling will blow your mind.

There is always something on, from musicals, ballet, drama to the NZ International Comedy Festival.  This Thursday 28 the New Zealand International Film Festival opens in the Isaac Theatre. Definitely go and check some of the movies out!

(Pic by Nico Babot)

9. Dine at Cook’n with gas

When people ask me to recommend a great restaurant I always say Cook ‘n’ With Gas. This place ticks many boxes. First of all the restaurant is in a beautiful historic 1860s villa, which is adorable. It looks small from the outside, but there is lots of space on the inside. The walls are decorated with frames of old movie stars which gives the restaurant a warm an quirky atmosphere.

And I haven’t even started yet about the food… It is all New Zealand made and it is delicious. I’ve been here four times and every time I left with a smile on my face. The staff is nice and the food is really good. You can order from a set menu, but I always go for a meal à la carte. You’ll pay about 45 dollar. My all time favourite is the lamb. And a nice little touch is that you get a tiny appetizer before your meal – on the house!

Something to celebrate or feel like a nice dinner out? Definitely go to Cook ‘n’ With Gas.

10. Go on a graffti hunt

Christchurch is the city of graffiti. Actually Christchurch is called the Garden City, but I think we should call it the graffiti city.

Around every corner you will discover some graffiti. And I’m not talking about ugly graffiti where teenagers write their names or bad words. I mean stunning, impressive graffiti, sometimes covering an entire wall. It’s an art and it is giving Christchurch that funky edge.

Street art became a big part of Christchurch after the earthquakes. The city centre was a mess, but beyond the abandoned skyscrapers and the scaffolding, walls of beauty started popping up.  Local and international artists created beautiful murals throughout the city and brought it back to live.

Anyone who visits Christchurch – and even every local – should wander around the city and be amazed by the street art in town. Put on those walking shoes and start walking!

Are there any places in Christchurch you highly recommend? Or places you would like to visit? 

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So that’s what I did. I let that little devil (or maybe angel?) win and decided to quit my job as an online journalist. It was NOT an easy choice. I had a good lifestyle, I was happy, I adored my friends and family, why change that pattern? Why leave everything behind? Because of what might be.

I’ve always had a thing for travelling, seeking out the unknown and putting myself in sometimes uncomfortable and funny situations. It all started in 2012, me going on a solo-travel to California. Best-decision-ever. 8 months later I was gone again to the States. Is it obvious I was bitten by the travel bug?

When I came back the second time I knew: I want to do more of this. And not just a couple of weeks, but for real. A month later I had a serious chat with my boss. We were having a coffee in the sun and I told him my plans. It came a bit out of the blue, so he asked a couple of times: “Are you sure?”

I don’t know if you can ever be sure of leaving a good job and awesome life, trying to live an even ‘awesomer’ life. But that’s what I did. I committed myself and went for it. I was sure that I wanted to try. I needed to try.

And here I am, living and working in New Zealand. I live in a stylish art deco house in the hills of Christchurch, get spoiled by the most beautiful sunsets every night and travel around every weekend. Just to give you an idea: look where I’m writing this from.

Every weekend I go on the road with my friends, discovering a new little part of New Zealand, with a camera in my hand. And every time again it feels like a holiday. Life feels like a holiday. How awesome is that? I didn’t know that was even possible!

You do make some sacrifices by living on the other side of the world. My lovely godchild celebrated her 3^rd birthday last week, I wasn’t there. One of my good girlfriends is getting married in two months, I won’t make it. My little brother (10) misses me so much and tears up when he talks to me on Skype. Nothing I can do.

I’m writing this to show you that it isn’t always sunshine in my head. 95% of the time it is, and those really are the brightest days of my life. But I do feel guilty sometimes. Guilty that I chose to live on the other side of the world and that I chose to leave my friends and family behind.

But it is not for nothing. I’ve seen a big part of the world. During my 1,5 year trip I’ve been to Australia, New Zealand, Thailand, France, Italy, Singapore, India and the Maldives. After all that travelling I chose New Zealand as my new home. A country that is so beautiful, words just can’t describe it.

I feel really blessed that I live here, that I can try something new than my life before. And believe me, it is new and very interesting to live in another country far far away. It’s my opinion that you have to do these things while you’re still young. There are a lot of sayings that when you’re old you don’t want to regret the things you didn’t do. And how cliché it sounds, it is true. So that’s what I’m doing. Living my life to the fullest. In a beautiful country.

I left my comfort zone 2 years ago. What about you? Does it tickle as well to take the big jump and go travelling? What would be your dream destination?

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