You’ve found a tour you’d love to join… but then you read “shared room” - and suddenly you’re hesitating. Totally normal. We’ve talked to so many women who felt the same at first. That’s exactly why we started our little Room Talk series - to answer the questions you might not want to ask, but still wonder about. Here’s a quick roundup - honest, practical, and with a bit of humour too.

We get asked this more and more: “I’d love to come – but with my food intolerances, will I even be able to eat with the group?” We understand – and you’re not the only one. For many women, food isn’t “just food.” We get it – and we care. 

We know it’s not easy to choose – especially when all four tours offer stunning scenery, small groups, home-style meals, and that special Sidetracks mix of fun, freedom, and feeling looked after. To make it a little easier, we’ve written up a short guide to help you decide.

October 2025 marks a very special milestone for me – it’s been 30 years since I first landed in New Zealand to work as a tour guide. Here I share with you not only how my journey unfolded, but also my personal favourite months of travelling in beautiful Aotearoa New Zealand.

Experience the iconic TranzAlpine Express - a dream for many, now in reach for participants on our West Coast Wilderness Cycle Tour.