I didn't really care for Auckland, and that’s only partially due to the ethics-challenged jackass that stole my money. Driving was a nightmare, it was congested, and it looked like any big city: ugly. After two days in the rural Coromandel peninsula, I wasn’t really looking forward to another city experience.

But WOW, is Christchurch an amazing place! The city center is packed with trendy boutique shops and cafes, all within a few minutes walk of the Avon River’s grassy banks. Driving here is super easy, mostly because the streets are straight and wide and there is little congestion. Even outside the city center there are a multitude of small cafes and eateries, including a fabulous little Japanese place that will be sorely missed.

Strange land, yes. Strangers, no.

One of the most amazing things about New Zealand, especially Christchurch, is how nice the people are. No matter where we are or what we’re doing there has been no shortage of people willing to help us out. Even the attendant at the parking garage went out of his way to give us detailed directions to a restaurant! In Columbus, you’re lucky if they take your money without giving you the "I hope you get hit by a bus tomorrow" look! The friendly attitude seems contagious, and I find it very refreshing.

5 star accommodations at the Langdon House B&B

I would be remiss if I didn’t spend a minute praising John and Annie at the Langdon House B&B for an absolutely amazing experience. This is what traveling in style is all about! They took care of every last detail: fresh water in our room, a private TV and DVD player, heated towel rack and tile floor in the bathroom, an incredibly comfortable bed, a fully stocked guest lounge with complimentary beer and wine and an awesome park-like setting just a few minutes from the city center.

The food and service was fantastic as well: John’s home-cured bacon was a delicious companion to organic, free-range scrambled eggs, and Melody swears that the weird things I didn’t try were, in fact, fabulous. The view from our bedroom window was no match for the seaside vistas offered by our other B&Bs, but the Langdon House was my favorite in all other regards. John and Annie provided 5-star service with the 5-star accommodation and I hope to visit them again.