First, I will try to upload pictures as soon as possible. Internet here is so freaking expensive - $NZD15 for only 50MB. Yes, by the MB! I used that in, like, a half hour.
That aside, this place is amazing! I was upgraded so I just look outside and see the beach and the ocean. As I type this, the water is only feet away from me.
My flight arrive around 6:10AM and everyone had smiles on their faces. Even the passport control people. I mean, passport control?! Have you ever seen any of those people smile in any country? Live music and leis with real flowers awaited our plane's arrival.
I got to the Aroa Beachside and was immediately taken to my cottage. Unless you are used to the lap of luxury, I couldn't recommend a place more. Breakfast was already being served on the outdoor bar area on the beach. The freshest fruit ever! Everyone here already knew my name before I even got here. It's more of a family atmosphere with the staff rather than a hotel feel where you are forgotten the minute you leave. There were some returnees who immediately got hugs from the staff. The bar area is a great hangout to meet and chat with all the guests. Did I mention how friendly people are?
After checking in with work, I made today an easy beach day. The water is crystal clear and calm as the breakfront holding back waves was pretty far out. Snorkling gear is included, so I was able to see lots of different marine life. Of course, not being on a beach for a long time left my a bit sunburnt despite my best efforts to use sunscreen. The evening included a welcome drink at the bar and more good conversation. All in all, couldn't ask for a better start to this.
Again, pictures to come (have to make them a small upload size so I don't have to keep buying access cards).
Yay yay yay! So exciting! You are getting what you deserve :) Keep enjoying paradise, for yourself and for all of us who are stuck in the city.
ReplyDeleteLOVE the photos above
"After checking in with work, I made today an easy beach day. The water is crystal clear and calm as the breakfront holding back waves was pretty far out. Snorkling gear is included, so I was able to see lots of different marine life." - dude, really? I gazed up someone's tailpipe on the 405 for an hour and then got into work ;)
ReplyDeleteSounds idyllic - enjoy! What's the Cook's lager like?
Owen
Thanks Allie! More photos to come, for sure!
ReplyDeleteOwen, that must have been one big vehicle in front of you (you were referring to a vehicle, I hope)! Cook's lager was fairly smooth and light, although not the lightest lager I've had. Think you'd like it.