Stray review: warm words from a happy Stray traveller

When we get a Stray review like the one recently shared by Bethan (aged 26 from Wales) we feel compelled to share it, not because we are bragging but because it tells us that all those early mornings, late nights and hard work is really and truly worth it.

It has to be said, maintaining a flexible adventure travel network across 6 countries (New Zealand, Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam and Myanmar) with multiple departures per week, year-round is nothing short of  ‘challenging’ work.

But we do it and we do it with a smile on our face because we are passionate about sharing our places with friends from around the world. We want our passengers to have life-changing experiences, meeting amazing people, visiting amazing places and doing truly amazing activities.

Review that gave us #warmfuzzies & #feelgood feelings

Have a read and perhaps you will get the same #warmfuzzies #feelgood we did…

Date: Thursday, 6 April 2017

Hello Stray Team,  

I got back from my trip down under about two weeks ago now and having kind of, almost, maybe (definitely not!) settled back into reality, I catch myself reliving the three weeks I spent there over and over in my head (probably why I’m writing this at work while I should be writing grant applications….!).

Although I’m absolutely gutted that I’m not still out there, sad that my time there was so short and sad to leave the people I met behind, I’ve realised that, fortunately, the pure majesty and pristine beauty of New Zealand will forever be imprinted in my mind. I have Stray to thank for that.

Getting ready to race at the Luge in Queenstown.

Firstly a MASSIVE thank you to our driver, Romeoo, who was absolutely brilliant. He really made you feel like you were part of a big family and as a first-time solo traveller, that was incredibly comforting and much appreciated. He made sure we all knew what the plans were, what to take, where we were stopping, what activities were coming up… even what the weather was looking like!

His local knowledge, sense of humour and cooking were spot on. Making dinner at Abel Tasman, the drinking at Blue Duck, the boat rides, and even waiting for us to do a Sky Dive at Lake Wanaka are just some examples of why Romeoo was THE BEST and I honestly can’t imagine having a better driver.

Group pic with Stray Driver Guide, Romeoo.

Secondly, just wanted to say that the itinerary was incredible; it really lived up to its  ‘off the beaten track’ name. The accommodation and activities at Lake Aniwhenua and Abel Tasman National Park were just perfect.

Actually, it’s hard to put into words what we got up to or where we went and the things we saw but I guess what I’m trying to say is… From the moment I got on the bus in Rotorua, to the moment I stepped off in Queenstown, my time with Stray was utterly perfect. I really can’t thank you enough for organising this amazing experience. I’ll never forget the people I met along the way (the Whanau), the ferns, the nature, the history, the culture, the landscape, the food (Fergburgers are TOTALLY worth all the hype), the weather (especially the warm rain), the memories, the skydive… the everything.

Getting ready to skydive in Wanaka.

So yeah, just wanted to say thanks really! Oh and keep up the good work 🙂

Hopefully, see you guys again at some point!

All the best,

Bethan Wynn


Thanks so much Bethan!  Your glowing review has rippled through our team here at Stray HQ. We are so pleased to hear you had an amazing experience travelling on our circuit with our Driver Guide, Romeoo. You will find travelling Stray Asia in Thailand and Laos quite a different experience culturally, but equally as enjoyable. We look forward to seeing you again!

Jodine profile picture

Jodine

Originally from Auckland, New Zealand. Favourite Stray stop: Mount Cook (New Zealand). Fun fact: she's been to 37 countries (and counting).

These New Zealand tours will depart soon!

New Zealand is a tiny country that packs a scenic punch! Explore New Zealand the 'Stray' way - getting further off the beaten track, seeking out one-of-a-kind experiences and meeting a bunch of epic fellow adventurers.
All tours are Stray Journey small group tours!

Wanderlust - See it All in NZ

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From the golden sands of Abel Tasman National Park to the West Coast’s glaciers and rainforests, the party and adventure capital of Queenstown, to the “Roof of Aotearoa” Mt Cook National Park.

Ruru - All of NZ Tour

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Hike some of New Zealand’s best tracks, kayak at sunrise, taste a delicious traditional hangi meal, bathe in a hot thermal stream surrounded by native bush.

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