Wellington, New Zealand
Recommended by: Sarah Raine, Group Account Director, Velocity Gold member
They say you can’t beat Wellington on a sunny day, but any day in the capital is an opportunity to discover something wonderful. I love Wellington because it’s the epitome of New Zealand – full of arts and crafts, great food and beer, beautiful landscapes, and interesting people. Whenever I travel back to visit friends, I uncover another love. Last time it was sitting with my old uni friends enjoying an amazing seasonal meal at Rita in Aro Valley. I also always make sure I visit wholesale merchant Moore Wilsons, who have the best collection of local products. My favourite was Aunt Jeans, who sell beautiful unhomogenised Nelson milk in glass bottles. It made the most delicious flat white the next morning.
Don’t miss: The Te Papa Museum found on Wellington’s waterfront. It is a fascinating mix of Māori and European history and science, with regularly changing exhibitions.
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Canggu, Indonesia
Recommended by: Benson, DJ/Producer, Velocity Platinum member
I was recently lucky enough to travel to Bali for a gig alongside my good friends Peking Duk. We were playing at The Lawn (a beautiful beach club in Canggu), and we made sure we flew in a few days early to check out what the area had to offer. I've never been to Canggu before but the whole place was delicious. (Not sure if you can describe a town as delicious, but it was.)
We explored the markets, temples, sunsets and beaches while still managing to sneak if a few nights out along the way. The locals are extremely kind, generous and fun. It’s a well-rounded location for a holiday – quiet enough to relax, but enough people around to help you paint the town red!
Don’t miss: Sunset dinner at La Brisa (the food is incredible) and, of course, Black Cat speakeasy for drinks afterwards.
Hong Kong
Recommended by: Craig Roberts, Managing Director, Velocity Platinum member
Hong Kong is an amazingly vast and vibrant city, and a melting pot of people, culture and food. With over 50 Michelin starred restaurants (from high-end dining to street food stalls), culinary experiences rank among the best in the world. Most travellers don’t realise that just minutes outside the city are scenic hikes and beaches including Repulse Bay and Shek O. Dress up and head to the races at Happy Valley or take it easy on the waterfront with a cool drink after shopping up a storm at Stanley Market.
Don’t miss: Hiking the Dragon’s Back trail for spectacular scenic coastal views and glimpses of the city beyond.
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Los Angeles, USA
Recommended by: George Robinson, Travel Agent, Velocity Gold member
Los Angeles is my favourite city in the US. Beyond all of the Hollywood sheen, there’s a rich city that’s a real melting pot of cultures and subcultures. This means you’ll find the tastiest (and cheapest!) Mexican food you’ve ever tried beside a new-age smoothie shop frequented by celebrities, and a Korean supermarket right next to that. LA is a town of neighbourhoods, and a great way to really get to know the city is to select a few and dedicate a full day to each – I’d recommend Silver Lake (with plenty of bars, cafes and restaurants), West Hollywood (home to the famous Sunset Strip) and the rejuvenated Downtown area (where you can visit the Staples Center for an NBA game).
Don’t miss: Heading up to Griffith Observatory for a great view over the sprawling city (albeit, often through some smog).
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Byron Bay
Recommended by: Bree Daniel, Client Partner, Velocity Gold member
This year I lessened the blow of turning 40 by convincing by favourite female friends to accompany me to my now favourite Aussie getaway – Byron Bay. If I could uproot my life and plant it there I would. It’s got a drop of every potion I need for a magical holiday – LA-esque dining options (from cool hippy cafes to Hollywood star-frequented restaurants), food that strikes the perfect balance of wholesome and flavorsome, fantastic margarita options, boho chic boutiques, beautiful beaches, yoga everywhere, a lighthouse to run to, bars to dance in, and festivals to get amongst.
Don’t miss: The paddock-to-plate setting of Three Blue Ducks. Look out for the roaming resident rooster (and genetically-blessed waitstaff). And if you like margaritas, you can’t go past the Chipotle chilli and lime one at Miss Margarita. It’s perfect before a day or night out rocking to tunes at Bluesfest (held across Easter).