Tours Direct Ltd

Matariki is rising ✨

As Aotearoa welcomes the Māori New Year, we’re wishing our travellers and whānau a season filled with reflection, gratitude and new beginnings.

Mānawatia a Matariki. 🌟

✨🏰 Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania & Poland Tour 🏰✨

🗓️ Day 8: Wandering the Curonian Spit in the Rain

A gentle day of umbrellas and adventure for our group, exploring the Curonian Spit under steady drizzle. After a short ferry ride, they arrived at the forested peninsula and made their way to the Hill of Witches, where carved wooden figures, born from old pagan tales, lined the winding paths.

In Nida, they looked out toward the Russian enclave of Kaliningrad, its stark dunes stretching into the distance. A windswept sculpture of Jean‑Paul Sartre stood watch on the climb to the lookout, honouring his many visits here.

A stroll through Nida’s small port town and a visit to its amber museum offered a warm break before a coastal boat trip to the Russian border. The captain shared stories of life on the water, including how local sailors once mingled freely with their Russian counterparts, connections now lost.

Back in Klaipeda, the day ended with a walk through the historic centre. Theatre Square, where Hi**er once spoke, now centres on a beloved sculpture of the Klaipeda girl from a Simon Dach song. With Regina, their guide, showing the way, the group uncovered stories and sculptures easily missed by others, proving once again the value of a knowledgeable local guide.

Another full day on their Baltic Adventure! ☔🌲✨

🌿 Fun Fact Friday: Costa Rica Edition #3 — Why This Costa Rica Tour Is So Special

Costa Rica is one of those destinations that captures hearts and this fully escorted journey brings out the very best of it. Here’s what makes this tour truly special:

🌿 Immersive nature at every step
Travellers love how close they get to Costa Rica’s wildlife and landscapes; cloud forests, volcano views, colourful birds and those unforgettable “did you see that?” moments.

🌺 Genuine cultural connection
Travellers consistently remark on the warmth and friendliness of Costa Ricans; from the welcoming smiles to the easy, relaxed way people share their love of nature and everyday life.

🐒 Surprises you can’t script
Sloths overhead, vibrant rainforest life and spontaneous encounters that make every day feel magical.

✨ A journey filled with nature, culture and moments that stay with you long after you’re home.

𝐂𝐎𝐒𝐓𝐀 𝐑𝐈𝐂𝐀 𝐀𝐃𝐕𝐄𝐍𝐓𝐔𝐑𝐄
📅 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐃𝐀𝐓𝐄𝐒: 7 - 23 March, 2027
🗓️ 𝐓𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐋𝐄𝐍𝐆𝐓𝐇: 17 Incredible Days

Don’t miss this incredible journey — Check out our website to learn more:
https://www.toursdirect.co.nz/products/costa-rica-adventure-2027