The Lone Ranger in Auckland: An Unexpected Journey
Found solo adventure in Auckland after Pandamonium's last-min cancel. Danced with Gandalf Archer Mills, explored Hobbiton, met sheep that resembled Shih Tzus
Well, folks, there I was, staring at an airplane ticket with my name on it, all set for Auckland, New Zealand. The catch? Mi esposo, Pandamonium, had a last-minute change of plans. His company was pulling him to their leader's summit in Cebu. We weighed the pros and cons, almost canceling the entire trip. But then we thought - why the heck not? We'd already booked all the tours. So, I decided to hop on the plane by my lonesome, leaving half the fun behind.
Upon touchdown, I found my way to the Grand Mercure Auckland, a hotel perfectly nestled near the harbour. It was like having Auckland at my fingertips, with most things just a brisk walk away. As I ventured out, I realized Auckland was a vintage version of Sydney - a bit more weathered, a bit more soulful, kind of charming in its own unique way.
One of the absolute highlights of my trip? Jamming with Gandalf Archer Mills at a Body Jam class! For a fitness fanatic like me, it was like a dream - no, scratch that - it WAS a dream come true. Picture this: me, grooving to the beat, led by one of the biggest names in the industry. It was a heady, exhilarating experience, one I wouldn't trade for the world.
Now, you can't go to New Zealand and not pay a visit to Hobbiton, right? Walking through the set where "The Hobbit" was filmed felt like stepping into another world. It was green, it was rustic, it was utterly mesmerizing.
And oh, the sheep! The sheep were so chubby they looked like Shih Tzus on a really bad hair day. Or maybe it's the other way around - Shih Tzus looking like tiny, fluffy sheep! Either way, those pudgy fellas added an extra pinch of charm to my journey through Hobbiton.
So, there you have it, my friends, my solo adventure in Auckland. While it wasn't the initial plan, it turned out to be one heck of a trip. From dancing with a fitness legend to frolicking with fluffy sheep in Hobbiton, every moment was a memory etched in my mind.
Sometimes, life throws you a curveball. But you know what? It's these unexpected journeys that often turn out to be the most rewarding.
Be well,
YRB
