Submitted by Navleen Kaur the 2024 Spring program in Singapore, Republic of Singapore…
I spent this past week in Queenstown for my spring break! I had been to Queenstown with my family a few months back; however, I knew I wanted to revisit because Queenstown is one of the most magnificent places I have ever visited. I had covered a lot with my family including nearby towns Arrowtown, Wānaka, and Glenorchy. So, I chose to stay in the heart of Queenstown for six nights and fully explore all this town had to offer. I spent my first day wandering around Kiwi Park which is a wildlife sanctuary with many bird species. As part of the entrance fee, I got to learn more about the kiwi bird – a national symbol for New Zealand – from a specialist. Furthermore, I got to participate in the conservation show in which specialists shared more interesting details about numerous reptiles and birds native to New Zealand. We also got to see these animals close up! The next day I visited Milford Sound which is located in Fiordland National Park. This is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site and it was amazing to learn more about how this site is a fiord (formed by glaciation) and not a sound (formed by flooding of a river valley). I did the two-hour cruise and got to see all the magnificent steep mountains and cascading waterfalls. My group was lucky enough to spot a full rainbow, dolphins, and seals – who were lounging on a huge boulder. During my time in Queenstown, I also boarded the TSS Earnslaw which is the only working commercial coal-fired steamship in the southern hemisphere! The cruise was amazing as we got gorgeous views of the mountains on either side of Lake Wakatipu. We also got treated to a fantastic BBQ lunch with numerous vegetables as well as dessert options. Afterward, the day ended with a sheep shearing and herding demonstration. In my free days, I loved walking around Queenstown Gardens, exploring the cafe scene in this town, and enjoying treats at Fergbaker. I had an amazing time, and I cannot wait for more adventures in Singapore! (Submitted on March 15, 2024)