Travel///Auckland
Auckland
City of sails in a land of natural wonders For a vacation destination with great food, shopping and stunning nature attractions, look no further than Auckland, New Zealand.
By Nicole B. Benavente
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ituated between two harbors on the North Island, Auckland offers all the thrills of an urban center in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Known for its outstanding architecture, natural environment quality and recreational opportunities, it is ranked as the third-highest city in the world for quality of life, according to Mercer’s 19th Quality of Living Survey in 2017. From Auckland Airport, a 30-minute drive or a 1-hour bus ride will get you to Auckland Central where you’ll be able to find the type of accommodation to suit your budget — from economical to five-star. Travelers from Guam have the option to rent a car with a Guam driver’s license, although they should be aware that New Zealanders drive on the left side of the road and the driver’s seat is on the right side of cars. If you’d prefer not to take up that challenge, taxis and busses are accessible from the airport and throughout the downtown area. In the summer months — November to April — Auckland is a pleasant city to explore on foot in comfortable 60- to 75-degree weather. You’ll see why Auckland is called the City of Sails as you make your way to the Auckland Waterfront. Small sailboats and grand yachts navigating into and out of the harbor fill the skyline with white canvas. By the waterfront, pedestrians can engage in events and activities — such as outdoor movies in the summertime — dine and relax in one of many restaurants and bars or browse local shops. A 15-minute walk from the water’s edge in Wynyard Quarter is the Auckland Fish Market. The market hosts a variety of seafood retailers, a food market, restaurant, café and deli where you’ll find the freshest fish in the city. Here is where visitors should try fish and chips — a New Zealand staple. For some retail therapy, head to the city’s main high street The Auckland Waterfront provides spectacular views of the cityscape and anchored vessels.
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