The Eat Clean, Health & Dream Blog

On our journey back to the UK from New Zealand, we were faced with a 30-hour layover in Bali. Now, for some, that may feel like an inconvenience — for us, it was an opportunity. After asking friends for recommendations, a few suggestions proved just a little too far from the airport for such a short stay. Convenience mattered this time. As always, I scanned the usual booking platforms and made the most of my Platinum Booker status on Hotels.com and Expedia.com — one of my f

Sometimes the best stays are the ones that almost didn’t happen. On our recent trip north, Craig and I stumbled across what turned out to be an absolute gem in the stunning Whangārei Heads area on Airbnb . Initially, the cabin wasn’t available for our first night, so we booked elsewhere. But there was something about it — and the genuinely warm, friendly communication from the owner, Kathy — that kept pulling us back. So we booked it for the following night. That decision? On

Whangārei Heads is one of those places that quietly sneaks into your favourites list — and then refuses to leave. Tucked into Northland’s rugged coastline, it offers the perfect short-break escape: wild beaches, dramatic volcanic peaks, sheltered bays, and that constant sense that you’re never done discovering it. It’s close enough to Whangārei town to duck back in if needed, yet far enough away to feel like you’ve properly escaped the hum of everyday life. And like New Zeala

Bay of Islands, New Zealand There’s something about a recommendation that keeps resurfacing. Urupukapuka Island had been mentioned to me more than once as a must visit in the Bay of Islands. Then, when I started searching for ideas for Craig’s slightly-belated birthday adventure, it popped up again — this time with the tempting promise of a “fishing adventure.” That sealed it. As the largest island in the Bay of Islands, Urupukapuka is also one of the most accessible. With n

The Bay of Islands—and Northland more broadly—has always held a special place in my heart. Every visit feels like a homecoming, and I always try to make the most of whatever time I’m lucky enough to spend up there. This most recent trip with Craig didn’t quite go to plan thanks to good old Mother Nature and the tropical storm she decided to throw at the east coast. Still, we made it north, albeit for a shorter stay than originally planned—and as usual for us, the accommodatio

On this trip, we were determined to make it right to the very top of Northland — something we hadn’t quite managed on our previous adventure. Spirits Bay was firmly on Craig’s fishing wish list, but there was one small issue… he’s not exactly a die-hard tent camper. Despite us owning all the gear, if there’s a way to avoid sleeping on the ground, he’ll find it. Enter Houhora Heads Holiday Park — the perfect middle ground between camping and comfort. Cabin Comfort Without Los