Ouarzazate – Morocco’s Cardboard Hollywood

Gosia — Sun, 17 May 2026 15:49:24 +0000

The Ouarzazate region has been luring filmmakers for years. This is where classics like Lawrence of Arabia, Gladiator, and The Mummy were brought to life. Most tourists begin and end their sightseeing at the famous Atlas Studios. Sure, it’s worth a visit, but limiting yourself to that alone is like watching only the trailer of a good movie. The real adventure with Moroccan cinematography begins in the middle of nowhere. The film world has pretty much forgotten these places. Picture this: massive palaces, fortified castles, and ancient temples built solely for a few scenes, then just… abandoned. No recycling, no dismantling, no packing things into containers. These sets are left to rot and in doing so, they get a second life. These cinematic cemeteries have turned into surreal, unique exploration spots. Around Ouarzazate, you can find quite a few — and the best part? Visiting them is totally legal! Entry is free, although getting there is a bit of a puzzle. Before I went to Morocco, I had heard about these places. Problem was, I couldn’t find their locations anywhere. That’s when Google Earth, my stubbornness, and outstanding observation skills came to the rescue (of course the last one is questionable ;D ). I scrolled the map inch by inch until I spotted something weird. Because really, finding a palace in the middle of the desert is like stumbling upon a castle in the middle of nowhere. So bizarre, that you know that you must go there! And when you finally get there… The first thing you’ll probably see is a facade the size of a director’s ego. Massive, with monumental columns, it looks like the Parthenon. But step closer and the illusion vanishes faster than the Game of Thrones budget in its final season. What looks like marble from afar turns out to be cardboard, plastic, and plywood up close. Collapsed walls, fallen roofs, tilted columns, and broken decorations create a surreal vibe. The whole scene is strangely captivating and leaves a lasting impression. 😉 It’s hard to believe that this kind of cheap junk looks like an ancient empire on screen. But apparently, it turns out you can build Rome in a day… on conditon that you’re doing it in Morocco 😉

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Hobbiton – The Shire vs. the Sheep: The Story of an Annexed Farm

Gosia — Sun, 10 May 2026 16:53:07 +0000

As I drove towards Hobbiton, or rather the town of Matamata, I immediately knew I was heading in the right direction. The landscape was dotted with perfectly undulating hills, practically begging to be turned into Hobbit holes. It looked like it had been plucked straight from a film set. Yet the most captivating part of the view was the greenery. The grass was so vividly green it almost seemed unreal. At that moment, I thought it was a fair trade-off for the previous day, when a wall of rain had driven me to despair and offered no hope for the rest of the trip. Incredible how the scenery can transform in just a few hours. It’s hardly surprising that when Peter Jackson was looking for the perfect Shire back in 1998, he chose this place. Hobbiton was set on a vast farm owned by the Alexander family, which is still a fully functioning sheep farm today, with thousands of sheep roaming the fields. The original Hobbiton was a makeshift affair of polystyrene and plywood. The deal with the owners the Alexanders family was simple: once filming wrapped, the land would be returned to the sheep. However, nobody anticipated that the blockbuster would draw Shire-hunters from all over the world. Ten years later, during the filming of The Hobbit trilogy, the Shire was rebuilt. The sheep’s land was annexed, and the settlement was constructed from durable materials. Today, forty-four Hobbit holes can be seen on the site, each crafted with meticulous attention to detail. Miniature letterboxes, cheese and jars of honey on the tables, and smoke curling from the chimneys make it all feel incredibly real. The Hobbit homes are still facades, as the interiors were filmed in a Wellington studio, which I’ll cover in another post. Only two houses were built for tourists and are open to explore. Inside, a miniature version of Hobbit life awaits. Tiny furniture, little tables, a kitchen and pantry give the impression they’re inhabited. Interestingly, the houses were designed in various sizes. The smallest are typical Hobbit homes, while the larger ones were built specifically for actors. The surroundings of the homes don’t feel like a film set either—they look like a charming garden. Fruit, vegetables, and flowers are carefully tended by the on-site gardeners. Washing hangs on lines, refreshed every few months to maintain its freshness 😉 The view from Bag End—the luxurious home of Bilbo and Frodo Baggins—is exactly like in the films: the birthday party green, the pond, the inn, and all of Hobbiton at the foot of the hill. This is precisely where Bilbo and Gandalf smoked their pipes before the great disappearance. Visiting in practice Tickets for Hobbiton are best bought online in advance, with a specific tour time reserved. Even though Hobbiton is one of New Zealand’s most popular tourist attractions, it never feels overcrowded. Groups enter every 30 minutes, and guides ensure everything runs smoothly. For the best experience, choose the first tour at 8:30 a.m., when Hobbiton is just waking up. Tours last about two hours and end at the Green Dragon Inn, where your ticket includes a drink—either beer or non-alcoholic ginger beer. Hobbiton surprises at every turn. The houses and their tiny accessories are genuinely impressive, all crafted with film-set precision. But the real magic of this place isn’t just in the artificial details—it’s in the unique, idyllic landscape. Here, you don’t have to paint the grass green.

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Arthur’s Pass National Park: The Most Beautiful Route in New Zealand?

Gosia — Sun, 26 Apr 2026 15:55:09 +0000

Arthur’s Pass National Park – or more precisely, the Great Alpine Highway that runs through it, is often considered the most beautiful road in New Zealand. It’s the oldest national park on the South Island (and the third oldest in the entire country), lying across a key mountain pass that links the eastern and western coast. Yet, driving along the Great Alpine Highway is far from an ordinary experience. The road through Arthur’s Pass is a true feat of engineering. Viaducts, bridges, rock shelters and diverted waterfalls, all designed to make it possible to cross from one side of the island to the other. The pass itself rises more than 900 metres above sea level, making it the highest highway crossing in the Southern Alps. The surrounding mountains range between 1,600 and 2,000 metres, with several peaks surpassing the 2,000‑metre mark. The tallest of them, Mount Murchison, reaches 2,400 metres. The Great Alpine Highway is a real mountain adventure, with scenery that grows more spectacular at every bend. Snow‑capped peaks, glaciers and rock-strewn valleys form the typical landscape here. Along the way, there are countless lookouts, walking and hiking trails to explore. The first stop, coming from Christchurch, is Castle Hill, a fascinating area of limestone formations that featured as a filming location for The Lord of the Rings and The Chronicles of Narnia. Nearby lies Cave Stream, a 600‑metre‑long tunnel carved out by the river running alongside it. Sounds adventurous? In theory, yes but this time I decided to skip it due to the risk of flash floods and deep water. The place has, sadly, claimed a few lives, and should only be explored with the right gear: wetsuit, helmet and torches. I only had the torch, was travelling solo, and my swimming style could best be described as “bottom level”. So I gave it a miss. Luckily, the views all around more than made up for it. Driving on, the mountains seemed to grow taller with each kilometre, the air cooler and fresher. One of the most striking viewpoints was Arthur’s Pass Lookout, just beyond the bridge over the Waimakariri River, the view of snowy peaks was simply breathtaking. A bit further on, there are plenty of walking routes and short trails. One of the most popular is the Devil’s Punchbowl, a 131‑metre waterfall. The track is just two kilometres long, making it ideal for those more into sightseeing than breaking a sweat. Along the way, you pass through lush forest and over small bridges before reaching a viewing platform that feels like the perfect reward. Another trail worth mentioning is the climb to Avalanche Peak (1,833 metres), which I had planned to attempt. However, a local at the visitor centre convinced me otherwise. Despite the clear sky, snow and strong winds on the ridge made conditions treacherous. Instead of a panoramic view, I might have caught “the flight of my life.” Much to my disappointment, I chose once again to exercise common sense and stay at a safer altitude. Luckily, the adventures didn’t end there. Before leaving the mountains behind, I had the chance to drive across the Otira Viaduct to the aptly named Death’s Corner. The name may sound like something from a B‑movie horror, but there’s logic behind it. The Alpine Fault runs right through the park, and the old, winding road was often destroyed by landslides. In short, you once drove here at your own risk. Arthur’s Pass perfectly captures what New Zealand really is beyond the scenes – rugged, mountainous, sometimes unforgiving, and utterly indifferent to your plans. You might climb something, skip something, or change your route altogether and that’s all perfectly fine. Because even if you don’t reach the summit or stick to plan A, just being here is an incredible experience. Practical Information Arthur’s Pass National Park lies along the Great Alpine Highway (SH73), connecting Christchurch with the West Coast. The drive from Christchurch takes around 2.5–3 hours, and from Greymouth about 1–1.5 hours. Although the pass itself is only 45 kilometres long, numerous scenic stops easily stretch the journey. It’s the highest mountain pass in the Southern Alps (over 900 metres above sea level), so the weather can change suddenly. In winter, expect snow, ice and occasional chain requirements. An alternative to driving is the TranzAlpine train, considered one of the world’s most scenic railway journeys. It runs between Christchurch and Greymouth, crossing the Southern Alps and passing through Arthur’s Pass, including the impressive 8.5‑kilometre Otira Tunnel. The full journey takes about 4.5 hours each way, offering panoramic carriages and landscapes that are even more unforgettable when enjoyed from the comfort of your seat.

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Auckland – a metropolis on a volcanic minefield

Gosia — Sun, 19 Apr 2026 16:49:40 +0000

Auckland isn’t actually the capital of New Zealand, though it tries very hard to look like it is. Historically, it did hold that title between 1841 and 1865. Today, its modern business district, with towering skyscrapers and cosmopolitan cafés, still feels like the country’s command centre. The city regularly ranks high in quality-of-life surveys, because life here is simply good. Sure, it’s more expensive than other parts of New Zealand, but that clearly doesn’t put anyone off, least of all tourists. Auckland can boast a pretty unique setting. It sits on the Auckland Volcanic Field, a volcanic area made up of roughly 50–53 volcanoes. They’re all dormant now, but the field as a whole is still considered active. What could have been a drawback, the city has turned into a feature. Many of these volcanoes have been converted into parks and viewpoints. The locals have a wonderfully pragmatic approach, if you’re going to live on a volcanic minefield, at least make sure it comes with a nice view. I started my day at Mt Eden, or Maungawhau – the highest point in the city and one of the most photogenic spots in Auckland. It’s a dormant volcano, 196 metres tall, whose last eruption was around 28,000 years ago. At the top sits a massive bowl-shaped crater, about 50 metres deep. A short walk up is rewarded with panoramic views of the entire city, its ports, bays, and other volcanoes. It’s worth remembering that the crater is a sacred site for Māori, so you shouldn’t stray from the marked paths. Mt Eden’s history has another, rather unexpected twist. The stone viewing platform at the summit was built in the 19th century with the help of… an elephant. At the time, the volcano’s slopes were heavily quarried, and the basalt extracted was used to build houses, Mt Eden Prison, and the platform itself. Māori workers and prisoners laboured here but one of the workers was also an elephant called Tom. Tom came to New Zealand as a gift for Prince Alfred, Queen Victoria’s son because, back in the 19th century, if you couldn’t think of a present for an aristocrat, you just gave them an elephant (and this one wasn’t a white elephant). During the sea voyage, he carried tonnes of coal, and upon arriving in Auckland, his strength was put to work hauling heavy blocks of stone up the slopes of Mt Eden. For his efforts, he was paid in sweets and beer, because health and safety, animal welfare, and common sense were treated rather loosely back then. Tom didn’t stay in New Zealand permanently; he ended up in Europe, and his remains can now be seen at Trinity College Museum in Dublin. The platform, meanwhile, still stands and continues to offer one of the best views in the city. From Mt Eden, I headed towards Karangahape Road, known to everyone as K’ Road. It’s one of those streets that doesn’t pretend to be all metropolitan chic. It’s packed with cafés that definitely don’t shut when the bedtime story ends. K’ Road is famous for simply being alive loud, diverse, and without pretence. It’s a bit arty, a bit rebellious, but never boring. Next up was Albert Park, one of the oldest parks in Auckland, established in the 19th century. It sits on a volcanic hill right in the heart of the city, and you can still see the massive trees that remember the park’s early days. The grounds include gardens and the Auckland Art Gallery, but what you can’t see at first glance lies underground. Beneath the park is a network of World War II-era tunnels, built as air-raid shelters. They’re closed today, but knowing they exist gives a whole new perspective on the place. From there, I walked to High Street. It’s the sort of place where you can shop, grab a good coffee, have dinner, or just sit with a glass of wine. Vulcan Lane, a narrow alley between the main streets lined with cafés, is particularly charming. While in the area, it’s worth popping into Giapo – the cult ice cream shop. They serve a Kiwi classic: Hokey Pokey, vanilla ice cream studded with chunks of toffee. Just nearby is Viaduct Harbour, a waterfront district full of restaurants, bars, and cafés overlooking the marina. Auckland is often called the “City of Sails”, with over 135,000 registered yachts and boats, and the Waitematā Harbour and Hauraki Gulf sometimes look like a giant parking lot for people who don’t entirely trust life on land. From almost anywhere in the city, you can spot Auckland’s icon – the Sky Tower. At 328 metres, it dominates the skyline and is the tallest structure in the Southern Hemisphere. If you prefer something a bit quieter, head to Parnell, Auckland’s oldest and one of its most stylish suburbs. Charming architecture and plenty of restaurants and cafés make it a welcome escape from the hustle and bustle of the city centre. Auckland was the last place I visited in New Zealand. And I’m glad I saved it for last — it perfectly summed up the country’s diversity. Ending a trip in a place like this is a bit like closing an adventure book, knowing full well you’ll want to open it again sometime.

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Auckland, Devonport – the fort that never fired… and the fake news that built it

Gosia — Sun, 12 Apr 2026 16:44:26 +0000

It takes barely a few minutes to ride a ferry from central Auckland to Devonport – a place that seems to exist in a completely different reality. Devonport lies between two extinct volcanoes that not only shaped its history but also perfectly symbolise it. At first glance, it looks like a calm, almost sleepy Auckland suburb: wooden houses, cafés, restaurants, kids fishing in the bay with Auckland’s skyscrapers in the background… but that’s just the surface. Beneath it lies a turbulent past that once made Devonport one of the most strategic locations in the region. Right next to the ferry terminal rises Mount Victoria, an 87-metre volcanic cone. It may not sound impressive in terms of height, but the view from the top certainly is. The strategic importance of this spot was recognised long ago. First, Māori built their pā (fortifications) here to control access to the harbour. Later, the British followed suit. In 1885, four three-ton guns were installed, and in 1898 a massive 8-inch Armstrong Elswick gun was placed on the summit on a so-called disappearing carriage. Thanks to a hydraulic platform, the barrel could retract into a concrete pit after each shot, protecting the crew from counterfire. The gun was fired only once – launching a shell weighing around 95 kg over a distance of 8 km. The reason it was never used again? Shattered windows and a very effective local residents’ protest. Today, the gun can still be seen on Mount Victoria in its original condition. Nearby stood Fort Victoria, complete with a magazine, shelter and observation post, connected by telephone to other coastal defence fortifications. One of the bunkers now serves as a concert venue for a local band. Mount Victoria is just the beginning. The real heavy artillery of Devonport can be found on the second extinct volcano, North Head (Maungauika). The climb alone explains why this spot was chosen for defence – the 360-degree views are spectacular. The fort on North Head, built in the late 19th century, was never used in combat. It was constructed as a result of… a fake news story from 1873. Reports of a Russian warship, the Kaskowiski, allegedly landing hundreds of soldiers in Waitematā Harbour caused widespread panic and exposed serious weaknesses in New Zealand’s coastal defences. The response was a new fort, complete with disappearing guns, tunnels and bunkers. The defence system consisted of three artillery batteries: North Battery, aimed at the Rangitoto Channel; South Battery, guarding the inner harbour; and Summit (Cautley) Battery on the top of the hill. Walking around North Head, you can still see gun emplacements, observation posts with mural-covered walls, and wooden barracks from 1885, connected by tunnels to the Summit Battery. Nearby, it’s worth visiting the Torpedo Bay Naval Museum, which explores the history of the Royal New Zealand Navy. The location itself is historically significant, as the site once formed part of Auckland’s defence system. The museum boasts one of the largest naval history collections in New Zealand. Admission details and current prices can be found on the museum’s website. Devonport – practical information Ferries between Auckland and Devonport run regularly, with a crossing time of around 10 minutes. Services depart from Pier 1, Ferry Terminal at 99 Quay St, with roughly 30 sailings throughout the day. The easiest way to pay is with an AT HOP card or contactless payment (credit or debit card, Apple Pay, Google Pay or Samsung Pay). When boarding and exiting, remember to “tag on” and “tag off” using the same card or device. Paper tickets can also be purchased from ticket machines or at the customer service centre. Up-to-date fares and timetables are available on the Auckland Transport (Ferry Terminal – Downtown ↔ Devonport).

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New Zealand, day one: a birthday at the end of the world

Gosia — Sun, 29 Mar 2026 16:18:50 +0000

I will never forget my first day in New Zealand. It was my birthday, and it was exactly how I’d imagined it – far from home, at the end of the world. Those first days are always stuck in the memory best – they set the tone for the whole trip. And knowing I had 18 days of adventure ahead only cranked up the excitement. Karekare Falls – 30 metres of watery adrenaline The first stop was Karekare Falls in the Waitākere Ranges Regional Park. A short, half-kilometre walk leads to a 30-metre waterfall surrounded by palms and lush, exotic vegetation. Mercer Bay Loop – a walk with views and Māori history Next up was the Mercer Bay Loop Track. This 2.2-kilometre loop leads to Te Ahua, a place of significance for Māori, with jaw-dropping views over the west coast. A high cliff, wind whipping your hair, waves smashing into the rocks… can you imagine a better backdrop? Piha, Lion Rock and Kitekite Falls – beach magic Piha is a stunning, wide beach, dominated by its icon: Lion Rock. This ancient volcano, shaped like a reclining lion, looking at the ocean. Right next to it is another curiosity – the Keyhole Natural Tunnel. A natural tunnel carved into the rock, looking like a gigantic eye of a needle. Not far away, you can wander to Kitekite Falls – a charming waterfall reached via a trail winding through palm forest. Whites Beach and Anawhata Beach Track – almost deserted corners You don’t need to go far to reach another spectacular viewpoint – Te Waha Point Lookout. From here, you get sweeping views of the coastline and the almost deserted Whites Beach. The lookout is reached via the Laird Thomson Track, a pleasant walk through New Zealand’s rolling green fields. The Anawhata Beach Track leads along cliffs, through lush forest, to a small, beautiful beach where you’ll often meet… well, no one at all. Bethells Beach (Te Henga) – the raw power of the Tasman Sea But the real show-stealer is Bethells Beach. This is one of those places where you genuinely feel like a castaway. Wild coastline, vast stretches of sand, emerald-coloured water – the perfect spot to surrender to the power of the Tasman Sea. For the persistent, there’s a 10-kilometre coastal route waiting. Tirikohua Point – the end of the world Tirikohua Point is a little-known, and therefore even more atmospheric, stretch of the west coast of the North Island. A trail through wild pasture and waist-high grass leads to towering cliffs that look like the literal end of the world. The route is under 2 kilometres – a small price to pay for having a beach all to yourself. Muriwai Gannet Colony Beach The trip ends at Muriwai Gannet Colony Beach – a must for nature and bird lovers. Muriwai impresses with its black volcanic sand and dramatic cliff-lined coast. And that’s how the first day in New Zealand – and my birthday at the edge of the world – came to an end. Just one day, but so packed with sights that it felt like I’d lived a hundred already 😄

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Oman – discovering Muscat’s surroundings

Gosia — Sun, 08 Mar 2026 15:00:28 +0000

Oman has been strategically located along trade routes for centuries, which is reflected in the construction of numerous defensive forts designed to ensure protection against invaders. One such structure, Al Hazm Castle, is one of the most impressive buildings in Oman. It was built in the 18th century by Imam Sultan bin Saif II. The castle was not only the residence of the ruler of Oman but also served a defensive function, which is why it is also known as a fort. Al Hazm Castle is unique due to its construction. No wood was used in the building of its ceilings, and it also used an innovative water system known as falaj. Falaj is an irrigation system that has been used in Oman for thousands of years. It is believed to date back as far as 2500 BC. The system’s principle was simple: water from underground sources located in the mountains was delivered via aqueducts and tunnels to villages. This solution guaranteed survival in Oman’s hot climate. Interestingly, the water was supplied not only to fields but also to public buildings, carried by various sluices and distribution channels. By the way, it isn’t without reason that the word falaj means “to divide”. A special method for dividing the water was developed, using sundials and hourglasses to measure the time for water collection. This system is still used in Oman today, with an estimated total length of around 3,000 km of channels. In addition to this system, Al Hazm Castle was equipped with extra water tanks for emergencies such as sieges or fires. The castle also had numerous gunports and cannons. Inside its walls, there were also a prison, storage areas for dates and other food products, a kitchen, a madrasa (Koranic school), and living quarters for the imam and his wife. The second fort that left a lasting impression on me was Nakhal Fort, mainly due to its location amidst mountains and date palms. The exact date of its construction is not known, but it is estimated to be over 1,500 years old. A large part of its fortifications, which can be seen today, were built in the 17th century. The unique feature of the fort is its irregular appearance, as it has been cleverly integrated into the rock. In many places, the rock forms part of the fort’s walls. The fort’s purpose was to protect the trade route between the former capital, Nizwa, and the Gulf of Oman. It also served as a residential space. Visitors can see rooms with traditional exhibits, a mosque, and food storage areas. One interesting feature I saw in every Omani fort was the date storage room. Dates were stacked in bags one on top of the other, working as a press to squeeze the juice from the fruits at the bottom. The specially shaped floor in these storage rooms allowed the juice to drain into barrels through a channel. Another fascinating structure near Muscat is the Wadi Dayqah Dam, which provides water to the capital of Oman. It was opened in 2012 and is the largest such facility in the country. The dam consists of two barriers: the main one, which is 75 meters (246 feet) high, and a smaller earth dam that is 48.5 meters (149 feet) high. However, the dam is not the only attraction here. On top of the dam, there is a picnic area with a viewing terrace offering an incredible view of the surrounding area. This location is not easily accessible, so it is less likely to be crowded with tourists. However, one can observe local residents hosting gatherings under the shelters. Exploring the surroundings of Muscat is not only a history lesson but also an exploration of the country’s natural beauty. The forts built into rocks and the innovative water systems demonstrate the ingenuity and perseverance of the people of Oman. Meanwhile, modern constructions such as the Wadi Dayqah Dam show how well critical infrastructure can be integrated into the natural environment.

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Abu Dhabi – attractions, architecture and local vibe of the UAE

Gosia — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 09:47:21 +0000

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the largest emirate in the UAE, may not boast a vast array of tourist attractions, but it is undoubtedly worth a visit. At first glance, it’s evident that the city is primarily designed for its residents. While nearby Dubai is dominated by tourists, Abu Dhabi seems to be more overlooked by them. Unlike Dubai, where the economy now heavily relies on new technologies and tourism, Abu Dhabi remains self-sufficient thanks to its oil production, preserving its unique local character. Traditionally, the city center features numerous skyscrapers. Some of them may be a bit overwhelming in their design, but as they say, there’s no accounting for tastes 😉. Overall, Abu Dhabi seems like a testing ground for various bold architectural ideas. A great example is the Capital Gate, also known as the Leaning Tower of Abu Dhabi. Standing at 160 meters tall with 35 floors, the building leans 18 degrees -14 degrees more than the Leaning Tower of Pisa. It is the world’s most tilted building, earning it a place in the Guinness World Records. This extreme tilt was made possible by a robust foundation consisting of 490 piles, the largest of which have a diameter of up to one meter and are placed 30 meters underground. Another fascinating structure is the Aldar HQ, often referred to as the “coin” due to its unique circular shape. The convex effect was achieved by joining diamond-shaped segments. Interestingly, despite its seemingly delicate design, the building must withstand significant wind loads due to its large surface area. While Abu Dhabi’s downtown may not be as spectacular as Dubai’s, it offers a distinct, more local atmosphere. Modern architecture is seamlessly integrated with historic landmarks. A perfect example of this blend is Qasr Al Hosn, translated as the Fortified Palace and also known as the White Fort due to its characteristic white color. Built in the 18th century, it is the oldest building in Abu Dhabi. Back then, the site of today’s modern city was just a fishing village, and the fort was constructed to protect trade routes. The city center also features two parks: Capital Park and Formal Park, located adjacent to each other. Capital Park serves as a primary leisure spot for locals, offering picnic shelters, fountains, playgrounds, and a basketball court. Formal Park, on the other hand, is situated next to the promenade, providing a unique vantage point for observing Abu Dhabi’s skyscrapers. The promenade itself is a fantastic spot for evening jogging or leisurely walks, especially during sunset, which offers breathtaking views of the city and the beach. Abu Dhabi can also be admired from a different perspective from the opposite Al Marina. For a taste of local culture, visiting a date market is a must. Dates have long played a significant role in Middle Eastern culture and are inseparably associated with this region. The market offers around 45 varieties of dates, filling the air with their sweet aroma and covering counters with their abundance. It’s also a great opportunity to chat with local vendors and sample regional delicacies. After exploring the entire market, it’s almost guaranteed that no one will leave hungry. Alongside dates, the market offers date syrup, chocolates, jams, other dried fruits, and nuts. Visiting in the evening is recommended, as bargaining tends to be more effective then. Nearby, there’s also a fruit and vegetable market where fresh produce can be purchased at reasonable prices. Abu Dhabi, although often overshadowed by nearby Dubai, has its own unique charm and character that are worth exploring. Alongside its modern architecture, visiting the parks, promenade, or local market allows you to experience the city’s distinctive local atmosphere.

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Mt Taranaki in New Zealand: an intelligence test and practical info

Gosia — Sun, 22 Feb 2026 16:15:10 +0000

I arrived at Egmont National Park in the afternoon. The main star of the show, Mount Taranaki, was of course hidden in the clouds so it did exactly what I’d expected. There was no point in attempting a longer hiking, so I opted for the light version: Dawson Falls and Wilkies Pools. As soon as I crossed the park boundary, it felt like I had stepped into an entirely different reality. A narrow, winding road led through a dense green tunnel, creating an almost fairytale-like landscape. To save time, I decided not to drive all the way to Dawson Falls Visitor Centre and stopped earlier, right at the trailhead. A short walk through the moss-covered forest felt like travelling through another dimension, as if designed by someone on a heavy psychedelic trip. Soon after, an 18-metre waterfall appeared. It looked incredible, without even a drop of exaggeration 😉 The trail to Wilkies Pools was a pleasant change. It led through a more “civilised” forest and across a suspension bridge. Wilkies Pools are tiny waterfalls with overflow pools, perfect for a natural spa. On the way back, the clouds finally parted, and I caught sight of Taranaki in the distance. It was late, so trekking was off the table, but I headed to the viewpoint at North Egmont Visitor Centre. And that’s when it hit me how utterly surreal this place is. The road was as flat as an IKEA table, and then, suddenly, a perfect volcanic cone rose right in front of my car. Absurdly close, far too close for something that should ideally be admired from a safe distance—or at least in the photo. I had never seen anything so unreal. The closer I got, the more it dominated the landscape. Clouds hung over it as if it was about to erupt. There was something beautiful and slightly terrifying about it. Enchanted, I drove back to my accommodation, watching Taranaki in the rear-view mirror. I left the rest of the points for the next day, unaware that fate had a little intelligence test in store for me… one that I spectacularly failed. The next morning, I rose at dawn. I planned a trek to Pouakai Reflective Tarn, followed by a drive to the coast near New Plymouth. However, while eating breakfast, I decided to complicate the day for myself. How else can one describe the attempt to remove an avocado stone with a knife? Result? I stabbed my hand with full determination. I’ll spare you the gruesome details, but watching the scene made me feel faint… really faint. The cut was narrow but deep, opening with every finger movement and hinting at an “exciting” day ahead. Giving up on the planned route was out of the question—I had bandages and zero common sense. Thanks to having an automatic car, I could even reach the trail start. Driving with one hand wasn’t too tricky, but tying my hiking boots felt like relearning shoelaces after years of Velcro. The frustration was total and absolute. The trail was single-themed: wooden boardwalk, steps, more steps, even more steps. The weather was cloudy, hope for Taranaki’s reflection in the water – minimal. Blood pumped, bandages disappeared quickly. Still, I pressed on with the hope of seeing one of New Zealand’s most photogenic spots. In perfect conditions, Mount Taranaki reflects in the water of Pouakai Reflective Tarn like a mirror. In my case, perfect conditions exist only in theory. Dense clouds made it almost impossible to see anything, and the “large” tarn turned out to be a small pond. The descent was even worse. Bandages ran out, blood dripped, and I started attracting more and more curious hikers. The steps felt endless; my only focus was to get back to the car and head to a pharmacy. The pharmacy solved the problem with special plasters that sealed the wound enough to avert further crisis. Was it worth it? Absolutely. Would I do it again? Of course. Will I use a spoon next time? Definitely 😀 Trail Info Wilkies Pools & Dawson FallsThe trailheads are marked on the map below. Both can be done as a longer loop. The Wilkies Pools & Dawson Falls Loop is just under 4 km, with a 225 m elevation gain, taking 1.5–2 hours. Pouakai Reflective TarnSeveral trails lead to Pouakai Reflective Tarn. A popular option is the Mangorei Track Trailhead. I initially planned the Pouakai Circuit starting at Kaiauai Car Park, but reviews suggested it was more challenging. Given my earlier misadventures and general survival instinct, I chose the easier route from Mangorei Road Car Park.One-way is 6 km; standard return time is 5–6 hours. I did it in 3 hours plus 30 minutes of bandage changes, which effectively threw off my rhythm. Most of the trail is wooden planks, which get slippery when wet. Monotonous and tedious, but without them, it would be a mud bath.The first stop is Pouakai Hut (about 5 km in), with free toilets. From there, just 1 km to Pouakai Reflective Tarns along a relatively flat path.

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