Tour notes

"Richard it was a really great trip. Thanks for making it happen."

What makes a trip so special that people come back year after year? Detail, experience. creativity, caring and fun.

Another traveler writes, "I learned a lot, ate a lot and laughed a lot. I call that a special trip"

Each year we learn a lot by listening to our traveler's comments. Since our first tour in 1992, we have constantly refined and expanded the experiences we share with you. This year is no exception.

Every day was a new adventure. Just about everything we did was particularly memorable for me because of the friendliness and humor, knowledge and curiosity of each member of the group, including you."

Another client captures our tour philosophy, "I really liked the way you approached the trip. It seemed like a group of friends touring rather than a tour group".

These quotes from participants on our many New Zealand tours, summarize the travel experience we provide. We think travel should be relaxing with opportunities to learn new things, enjoy fine food and wine and have a lot of fun. We take care of every detail so all the surprises, on our trips, are good ones. And our itineraries always include free time for you to follow your own interests.

 “Beautifully planned and well organized. The fact that the garden owners were your personal friends makes a huge difference. Everyone we met was gracious and cordial. A wonderful trip in every way. What a treat! Thank you Richard.”

 “Thank you for one of the best trips we have ever taken. Your knowledge, patiently shared again and again, gave so much depth to what we were seeing and learning.”

 “Richard was a caring, kind and considerate host. We were privileged to be guests at the many exquisite gardens.”

"Another fantastic trip and as a bonus I seem to have missed winter."

 Sunrise on Doubtful Sound

While our guests typically have an interest in gardens, they also wish to sample the many treasures this country has to offer. So our New Zealand tour has evolved into Gardens, Wine and Wilderness. The carefully crafted itinerary includes the history, culture and natural wonders of this island nation. There is time for sunning on the beach, fishing, a round of golf, hiking, shopping or water sports--whatever makes a vacation special to you.

“What a treat. Thank you, Richard.”

 “I didn’t believe all those glowing statements in your brochure. Now I do!”

 “The gardens were beautiful-as expected on a tour. New Zealanders were wonderful, friendly people. This tour was so personalized; every detail for our comfort and enjoyment handled perfectly with great care for the individual. It was an ideal blend of gardens, gorgeous scenery, delicious food and wine and delightful people.”

“You did an incredible job. Best planned, organized and adventure filled tour I’ve ever taken.”