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Top 5 Enchanting Destinations to Explore Instead of New Zealand's South Island

Discover the top alternative destinations to New Zealand's South Island for travelers from England. From the historic charm of Crete to the tropical paradise of Bora Bora, find your next dream holiday.

Click here to tailor the list to match your ideal getaway trip.

Simplify your travel planning with this list of the the 5 must-see alternative Destinations

1. Crete
2. Prague
3. Vienna
4. Seychelles
5. Bora Bora

Crete

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Crete offers a blend of stunning beaches, ancient treasures, and vibrant cities. It's a more accessible and affordable alternative to New Zealand's South Island, with a rich history and Mediterranean charm.

Falassarna Beach

Falassarna Beach in Crete, Greece is a stunning paradise with crystal-clear turquoise waters, golden sand, and breathtaking sunsets. Surrounded by rugged cliffs and dunes, it offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere for relaxation and enjoyment. A must-visit destination for beach lovers seeking natural beauty and tranquility.

The Well of the Turk

The Well of the Turk in Chania, Greece is a historic landmark dating back to the Ottoman era. This well, adorned with intricate stone carvings, served as a vital water source for the city. Today, it stands as a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage and architectural beauty.

Malia Market

Malia Market in Crete, Greece is a bustling and vibrant marketplace offering a wide range of local produce, traditional Greek products, and souvenirs. With its lively atmosphere, visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture, taste delicious food, and find unique treasures to take home.

Prague

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Prague is a fairy-tale city with architectural splendor rivaling that of New Zealand's landscapes. It's closer to England and offers a magical urban experience with its well-preserved medieval core.

Lokál Dlouhááá

Lokál Dlouhááá is a vibrant and bustling restaurant located in Prague, Czech Republic. Known for its lively atmosphere and traditional Czech cuisine, it offers a wide range of delicious dishes and a variety of local beers. With its friendly staff and cozy interior, it is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.

Prague Zoo

Prague Zoo, located in the capital city of Czech Republic, is a popular tourist attraction known for its diverse collection of animals and beautiful surroundings. Spanning over 140 acres, it offers a unique experience with over 4,700 animals from around the world, including rare species, and provides educational programs and conservation efforts.

Fashion Arena Outlet Center

Fashion Arena Outlet Center in Prague, Czech Republic is a premier shopping destination offering a wide range of designer brands at discounted prices. With over 200 stores, it provides a unique shopping experience for fashion enthusiasts, featuring a variety of clothing, accessories, and footwear options to suit every style and budget.

Lucerna Music Bar

Lucerna Music Bar in Prague, Czech Republic is a vibrant and iconic music venue known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of performances. With its stunning Art Nouveau interior, state-of-the-art sound system, and regular live music events, it offers an unforgettable experience for music lovers in the heart of Prague.

Vienna

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Vienna is a cultural haven with imperial palaces, museums, and music. It's a sophisticated urban alternative to the rugged wilderness of New Zealand's South Island, with an easier journey from England.

Steirereck

Steirereck is a renowned fine dining restaurant located in Vienna, Austria. It offers a sophisticated and innovative culinary experience, combining traditional Austrian cuisine with modern techniques. With its elegant ambiance and impeccable service, Steirereck is a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking a memorable gastronomic journey.

Hofburg Palace

Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Austria, is a magnificent imperial residence that has served as the seat of power for the Habsburg dynasty for over 600 years. With its stunning architecture, opulent interiors, and vast collection of art and historical artifacts, it stands as a symbol of Austrian history and grandeur.

Donau Zentrum

Donau Zentrum is a popular shopping mall located in Vienna, Austria. It offers a wide range of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options, making it a one-stop destination for shopping and leisure activities. With its modern architecture and convenient location, it attracts both locals and tourists alike.

Flex

Flex is a renowned nightclub and music venue located in Vienna, Austria. Known for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse music genres, Flex attracts a diverse crowd of locals and tourists. With its riverside location and energetic ambiance, it offers an unforgettable nightlife experience in the heart of Vienna.

Seychelles

Discover Hotels in Seychelles

Seychelles offers idyllic beaches and a tropical paradise without the long-haul flight to New Zealand. It's an exotic escape with unique biodiversity and fewer time zone changes for English travelers.

Konnos Bay

Konnos Bay in Protaras, Cyprus is a picturesque and secluded beach nestled between rocky cliffs. With crystal-clear turquoise waters and golden sand, it offers a tranquil escape for sunbathing, swimming, and snorkeling. Surrounded by lush greenery, it is a hidden gem for nature lovers seeking a peaceful coastal retreat.

Le Perle Noire Restaurant

Le Perle Noire Restaurant in Seychelles is a charming and elegant dining establishment. With its stunning beachfront location, it offers a romantic atmosphere and serves delicious seafood and international cuisine. The restaurant is known for its exceptional service and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination in Seychelles.

Morne Seychellois National Park

Morne Seychellois National Park is a stunning nature reserve located in the Seychelles archipelago. Spanning over 3,000 hectares, it encompasses the highest peak in Seychelles, Morne Seychellois, offering breathtaking views. The park is home to diverse flora and fauna, including rare endemic species, making it a paradise for nature lovers.

STC Hypermarket

STC Hypermarket in Seychelles is a popular retail store offering a wide range of products including groceries, household items, electronics, clothing, and more. It is known for its affordable prices, convenient location, and excellent customer service, making it a go-to destination for locals and tourists alike.

Tequila Boom Nightclub

Tequila Boom Nightclub in Seychelles is a vibrant and energetic nightlife destination. With its lively atmosphere, pulsating music, and a wide range of tequila-based drinks, it offers an unforgettable experience for party-goers. The club is known for its energetic crowd, international DJs, and a dance floor that keeps the party going all night long.

Bora Bora

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Bora Bora provides a luxurious and secluded island experience with overwater bungalows and crystal-clear lagoons, presenting a tropical alternative to New Zealand's cooler climate and mountainous terrain.

Motu Mute

Motu Mute is a small island located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. It is known for its stunning white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant coral reefs. The island offers a tranquil and picturesque setting, making it a popular destination for relaxation, water sports, and snorkeling.

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges

Lagoon Restaurant by Jean-Georges in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a culinary paradise nestled on the water's edge. With breathtaking views of the lagoon and Mount Otemanu, this restaurant offers a fusion of French and Polynesian flavors, creating a memorable dining experience in a stunning tropical setting.

Coral Gardens

Coral Gardens in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a stunning underwater paradise. With crystal-clear turquoise waters, vibrant coral reefs, and an abundance of marine life, it offers an unforgettable snorkeling and diving experience. Explore the colorful coral formations and encounter tropical fish, rays, and even sharks in this breathtaking natural wonder.

Tahia Exquisite Tahitian Pearls

Tahia Exquisite Tahitian Pearls is a renowned jewelry brand located in Bora Bora, French Polynesia. They specialize in crafting exquisite pearl jewelry using the finest Tahitian pearls, known for their lustrous beauty and unique colors. Each piece is meticulously designed to capture the essence of the stunning island paradise.

Bloody Mary's

Bloody Mary's in Bora Bora, French Polynesia is a renowned restaurant and bar known for its vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine. With its sandy floors, thatched roof, and open-air setting, it offers a unique dining experience. Serving fresh seafood and tropical cocktails, it is a must-visit destination for tourists.

What's one thing you'd like to avoid in your next travel destination

Too Crowded Too Expensive Too Hot Too Touristic Too Cold