Hi guys,

Is anyone around in NZ in September 2005, who can recommend any hostels/tours etc, for me to join? I am travelling on my own for a month, and ideally would like to join others on my travels (cos I'll get bored of my own company pretty quickly!)Or, is there anyone who is travelling on their own in September 05 who would like to join me?
Also, I have heard less than complimentary things about Stray Travel tours in NZ - can anyone comment or suggest another tour group to join?

Thanks very much!
Clare xxx

"To Travel is to Live"

It depends on your likes/dislikes, some people rave about the kiwi experience, but if you are not a party person the magic bus has a good reputation and may suit you. You won't get lonely if you stay at backpackers or farmstays as people are usually very friendly

i had a similar issue when i arrived (now been here 2 years and bought a house) there are tonnes of optins and i am sure you will meet loads of people, one company worth thinking about are flyingkiwi (www.flyingkiwi.com) i had a class tiem and met plenty of people, also worked out much cheaper than other options, only thing is its def for people who enjoy the outdoors, lodas of activities and camping etc but if thats not for you maybe the other bus options would be better.

I've just returned from a 2-week trip from the South Island and it was an awesome experience!

OK, I was travelling alone with the Magic Bus and I found their service suit me a lot. As I have limited time and didn't have much idea which place to stay longer, I joined their 8-day highlight tour so I just followed their fixed itinerary. The good thing is you don't have to worry about your accommodation. They pre-booked your hostels for you and book the activities for you on the bus. You have freedom to join or not. And I am not a party animal and enjoy more of travelling alone, and I find that most people on the bus are like that as well. In short, I find some nice people to talk to and hang around but non of them are those "sticky" one so you can really have a private time.