You Me and Friends - Small Group Hosted Tours & Designer Trips

02/08/2024

Our friends and travelers are back from their Aussie adventure!

Did you know we have a travel club where our members come together once a month and share their travel stories?

Its also and opportunity to come and listen to David, Karen and our other Hosts talk about the up and coming tours we have.

These trips can be ones where we're advertising final seats or it could be in the initial planning stage where we gauge an interest in the tour idea.

If you think this is something you might like to join or know someone who may enjoy learning more, contact us either through Facebook (send us a message) or email [email protected] who will provide you with more information.

26/07/2024

Hello Travelers!

If you've taken an interest in our recent post about our upcoming WOW Tours, take a look at the link below.

Check out this video showcasing the best moments and unforgettable experiences from last year’s WOW Tour. Relive the adventure and get inspired for your next journey with us! 🌍✨

2023 World of WearableArt Show: BEYONDJOURNEY INTO A FUTURISTIC WORLD!The World of WearableArt Show is a world-class theatrical extravaganza seen by 60,000 p...

25/07/2024

🌟✨ Experience WOW and make Unforgettable Memories! 🌍🎉

We’re delighted to offer an exclusive opportunity to join our WOW Tour with an added bonus – a charming visit to Kapiti on our second departure! 🏞️❤️

📅 WOW Tour - 1st Departure: Only 8 Spots Available! 🚀
📅 WOW Tour - 2nd Departure: Just 2 Spots Left for Kapiti! 🏃‍♂️💨

This is your chance to enjoy a thoughtfully curated adventure, designed with comfort and enriching experiences in mind. Whether you’re ready to embark on our first WOW journey or prefer the delightful addition of Kapati, now is the perfect moment to secure your place.

🎟️ Embrace This Opportunity – Book Your Dream Getaway Today! ✨🌟

24/07/2024

Hidden Treasures (August Departure) is SOLD OUT!!

We're taking bookings for our next Hidden Treasure Tour on the 23rd of October.

Get in touch with one of our team members to book your space on our Day Tour exploring the hidden gems.

Follow the link below to find out more information and contact details.

*We also have something really awesome to share soon about the December Trip*
So keep your eyes peeled for more info on that one!

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/hidden-treasures-day-tour-2/

21/07/2024

Here’s another update from our travellers in Australia!

Day 5: Wednesday 17th July – Our Travellers were out and about adventuring in Alice Springs. The day started with a visit to ANZAC Hill, offering panoramic views that must have been breathtaking. Then, exploring the West Macdonell Ranges with their vivid landscapes and Dreamtime stories sounds mesmerizing.

Honeymoon Gap and Simpsons Gap, steeped in local history and natural beauty, would have been such enriching experiences. And the surprise morning tea arranged by Mahesh sounds so thoughtful and delightful amidst such picturesque surroundings. Ending the day with a nocturnal tour at Alice Springs Desert Park, encountering endangered wildlife under the stars, must have been magical.

Day 6: Thursday 18th July - Another day filled with exploration and cultural immersion in Alice Springs. Visiting Emily and Jessie Gaps, learning about Aboriginal culture and seeing ancient rock art, sounds like such an amazing experience. Mahesh's attention to detail, like organizing morning tea and surprising Joy with a birthday cake, adds such a personal touch to the journey. How special! (Happy Birthday Joy)

The visits to the Araluen Cultural Centre and Royal Flying Doctor Service would have been fascinating, offering insights into both art and critical medical services in the Outback, combined with the Telegraph Station and School of the Air showcase significant aspects of Australia's history and education system.

Day 7: Friday 19th July - A relaxing morning in Alice Springs before departing for Darwin must have been a nice break. The flight with views of Pitch Black 2024 activities upon landing sounds thrilling, though the IT outage scare was probably a bit unnerving! Exploring Darwin, dining at a waterfront restaurant, and strolling through The Mall must have been a perfect way to unwind after the journey.

Day 8: Saturday 20th July – Yesterday’s exploration of Darwin sounds like a dream. From wartime history and museums to botanical gardens and local markets, it seems like there's so much to see and do. Ending the day with dinner at the Waterfront, enjoying the warm evening ambiance, is the perfect way to wrap up the trip.

The blend of natural beauty, cultural immersion, and historical insights would have made for an unforgettable journey. If reading about these experiences makes you feel like you missed out, head over to our website to see what other trips we have available. Follow the link below.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/

21/07/2024

Join us on an extraordinary 28-day adventure through some of the world's most captivating destinations. Our journey begins with a seamless pickup in Whangarei, followed by a flight from Auckland to Dubai. Experience the towering Burj Khalifa and the vibrant streets of this bustling city.

Next, Venice beckons with its timeless allure—explore Murano's glass-making traditions and savor the flavors of Italy on a guided food tour along its iconic canals. Florence awaits with its Renaissance wonders, including the awe-inspiring Ponte Vecchio and Michelangelo's David.

Continue exploring in Rome, where ancient history comes alive at the Colosseum and Pompeii's haunting ruins. Then, dive into the artistic and culinary delights of Barcelona and Madrid, from Gaudí's masterpieces to Madrid's historic tapas bars.

But that's not all! Discover Portugal's rich heritage from Porto's port wine cellars to Lisbon's Moorish castles and coastal splendor.

Don't miss out on this epic journey. Get in touch with one of us and find out more about this amazing trip, or you can follow the link below and read more.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/italy-spain-portugal/

17/07/2024

4 SPOTS LEFT!!!

Our Op Shop Tour - Hidden Treasures is BACK!

The next departure date is August the 14th (Wednesday). We'll be jetting off from Whangarei heading over the brynderwyns towards Auckland checking out some Hidden Treasure locations on the way.

Join us for a fun day's adventure. If you've been thinking about some of our longer trips but haven't committed yet then this one is perfect for you. You can see how we look after you every step of the way, ask questions and get to know our team.

If you're interested in knowing more, click the link below and register your interest. One of our amazing team members will be there to assist you.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/hidden-treasures-day-tour-2/

17/07/2024

Red Centre and Top End (Australia) Travel Group Update!

We can't help but feel major travel fomo watching Michelle's updates from Australia. She’s having such a great time, guiding everyone through the Red Centre and Top End, while we’re here patiently waiting on their updates.

Our travellers headed off from Whangarei to Auckland, stopping for a break at Kaiwaka, and then jetting off to Sydney. From there they made their way to Uluru on a Qantas flight watching the beautiful landscape until they landed at Ayers Rock Airport.

They’ve given us such great updates of their trip so far, like that magical Field of Light Dinner near Uluru. We can only imagine the stunning sunset backdrop as they sipped sparkling wine and enjoyed kangaroo wraps and lemon myrtle filos. And the bush tucker-inspired three-course meal! Pumpkin and carrot soup with warigal greens, kangaroo casserole, crocodile coleslaw—those are flavors we’ve only seen on MasterChef Australia!

The next day, waking up early for breakfast at Kulata Academy Cafe, followed by a guided garden walk in the Town Square and stumbling upon a NAIDOC Week celebration with performances and local crafts—what an authentic cultural experience. And then the camel farm visit.

What a great first few days! But it's the Sunset & Sacred Sites tour at Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park that really gets us. Visiting the Anangu Cultural Centre, exploring the base of Uluru with its ancient rock art, and watching the sunset over Uluru—it's a photographer's dream! And to top it off with dinner under the stars at Sails in the Desert, sharing stories and enjoying fingerlime mousse—devine!
We cant forget to mention their early morning sunrise at Uluru and the hike through Kata Tjuta's Walpa Gorge. The sheer red walls and unique flora—it's nature at its most breathtaking.

Even the drive to Alice Springs, stopping at Mt Connor Lookout and Erldunda Roadhouse, sounds like an adventure in itself. Seeing emus, camels, and catching glimpses of the Finke River—it's definitely a classic Aussie Outback Experience!

The photos below show how amazing their trip has been so far. We cant wait for the next update from further north! Keep your eyes peeled for our next update from the Aussie Tour and upcoming trips were hosting.

04/07/2024

Discover the World with Ease and Comfort!

At You Me and Friends, we specialize in creating unforgettable travel experiences tailored for those aged 65 and over!

Whether you're exploring iconic European cities, marveling at the natural wonders of the world, or embarking on a cultural journey through exotic landscapes, we're here to ensure every step of your adventure is seamless and enjoyable.

Why choose us?

✅ Small Group Tours: Enjoy the company of like-minded travelers in intimate groups.
✅ Expert Hosts: Our knowledgeable hosts are there to assist you at every turn.
✅ Carefully Selected Accommodations: Comfortable and accessible stays throughout your trip.
✅ Thoughtful Itineraries: Balanced schedules with ample time for relaxation and exploration.
✅ Peace of Mind: We prioritize your safety and comfort, always.
✅ Pick up and drop off from your homes in Whangarei or local Whangarei destinations.

Let us take care of the details while you focus on creating amazing memories. Check out some of the group photos below from some of our trips.

Join us on our next journey – adventure awaits! Follow the link below to find out more about our up and coming tours or contact us using the information listed on the picture.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/

29/06/2024

Over the past two weeks, our group of intrepid travelers has embarked on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Malaysia, immersing themselves in its rich tapestry of culture, nature, and adventure. The experiences they've shared have left an indelible mark on each of them.

Their adventure began amidst the bustling streets and towering skyscrapers of Kuala Lumpur. For many, conquering fears was the theme as they ascended the iconic Petronas Towers, marveling at the city's skyline and partaking in the mesmerizing light symphony that illuminated their nights. The vibrant energy of KL set the perfect tone for the days ahead. Venturing deeper into the wilderness, their hearts were captured by the lush beauty of the Borneo rainforest during our six-night stay. It was here that they witnessed the majestic Borneo Big 5 in their natural habitat—a sight that words cannot fully capture.

The Sukau Rainforest Lodge, our sanctuary on the Kinabatangan River, provided not just comfort but an immersion into the heart of Borneo's biodiversity, thanks to the exceptional hospitality of the Borneo Eco Tours team. Sepilok Wildlife Centre stole their hearts with its playful orangutans and the elusive Western Tarsier, quickly becoming favorites among our group. Evenings were spent savoring exotic cocktails and sharing stories under the canopy of stars. In Kota Kinabalu, a serene interlude awaited them at the Sutera Magellan Resort—a haven of luxury and tranquility unlike any other. Here, amidst breathtaking views and unparalleled comfort, they found the perfect respite to reflect on the wonders they had encountered.

If you've been captivated by the beauty and adventure of Malaysia captured in these pictures and videos, we invite you to join us on our upcoming tours. Whether you yearn to delve deeper into Borneo's rainforests, immerse yourself in cultural experiences in Kuala Lumpur, or indulge in serene escapes in Kota Kinabalu, our upcoming itineraries promise new adventures and unforgettable moments to places around the world.

Reach out to us to learn more about our upcoming tours and start planning your next journey with us. Let's continue to discover the wonders of Malaysia together. Until next time, Malaysia awaits your return.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/

21/06/2024

Easy Paced Italy, Spain and Portugal.

Hosted Tour: 18 Days or 26 Days or 34 days: Departing: 12th SEP 2024. - Hurry only a few spots left!!

Join us on for an easy paced adventure through the best of Europe.
Explore the wonders of Dubai on our stop-over. Then venture into Venice, Florence, Rome, Barcelona, Madrid, Porto, and Lisbon with our unforgettable guided tour!

Our journey begins in Whangarei with a pick-up, heading straight to Auckland International airport for a flight to Dubai. Discover the gleaming city of Dubai, including a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa.

Then, we fly to Venice, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where we explore its enchanting canals and iconic landmarks like La Basilica San Marco.

Next, we travel to Florence and settle into Siena, a medieval gem in Tuscany. Immerse yourself in the region’s rich history and cuisine with walking tours and visits to Florence’s renowned attractions.

Then, venture into the Tuscan countryside for an authentic experience of medieval towns and scenic landscapes.

Our journey continues to Rome, where ancient history meets modern vibrancy. Explore the Vatican City, the Colosseum, and Pompeii’s haunting ruins. After Rome, we fly to Barcelona for tapas tastings and visits to architectural marvels like Park Guell and La Sagrada Familia.

In Madrid, delve into Spanish culture with tapas tours, city panoramas, and excursions to Toledo and Segovia. Finally, our adventure concludes in Portugal with visits to Porto’s port wine cellars and Lisbon’s historic landmarks, including a day trip to Sintra and Cascais.

Ready to embark on this incredible journey? Book now and secure your spot for an unforgettable exploration of Europe and beyond! Click the link below to ensure you don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime experience!

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/italy-spain-portugal/

19/06/2024

The Wonders of Rajasthan

Hosted Tour: 22 days / 21 nights: Departing: Fri 7th Feb 25

Embark on an incredible journey with us!

Day 1 starts with our departure from Whangarei to Auckland Airport hotel.
Day 2 sees us jetting off to Singapore for 2 nights, exploring Gardens by the Bay.
Then on Day 4, Delhi beckons with 3 nights of adventure: from Old to New Delhi's bustling markets and iconic landmarks.
Days 7-8 bring us to Agra's Taj Mahal and Ranthambore's thrilling safaris.
Jaipur awaits on Day 10, filled with Amber Fort, City Palace, and cultural delights.
Our Rajasthan odyssey continues through Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, and Udaipur's lakes and palaces. Finally, back to Delhi and home on Day 23.
Check out the link below to find out more about the journey and book your place on tour.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/the-wonders-of-rajasthan/

20/05/2024

Tongan Discovery Cruise.

Join us for an unforgettable adventure!

On the morning of Mon 19th Aug24, embark on a journey from central Whangarei to the exotic destinations of Tonga and Fiji aboard the P&O Pacific Explorer Cruise.

With a brief coffee break en route, we'll arrive at Auckland's port around 12nn. From there, it's just a short stroll to Queens Wharf where the excitement begins!

Once settled in our cabins, get ready for non-stop fun! From captivating shows to live music, thrilling games, a casino, and mouthwatering cuisine, there's something for everyone as we sail to Tonga and Fiji.

Explore Nuku’Alofa on Thursday, Vavau on Friday, Lautoka on Sunday, and the breathtaking island paradise of Dravuni on Monday.

Our return journey begins on Tuesday, with an early morning arrival back in Auckland on Thursday 29th Aug24. Shuttle services will be waiting near the ship to take you back to your central Whangarei homes by around 4pm.

Don't miss out on this incredible voyage! Book your spot today and let the adventure begin.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/tongan-discovery-cruise-on-po-explorer-of-the-seas/

16/05/2024

Join us for an unforgettable European adventure! From the comfort of Whangarei to the heart of Paris, Bordeaux's wine country, the charm of Toulouse, medieval marvels of Carcassonne, and the beauty of Provence. Enjoy leisurely walks, taste tours, iconic landmarks, and more. Book your spot now for an adventure of a lifetime

Follow the link below to find out more information about the tour and how you can book with us

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/provincial-france-tour/

16/05/2024

We're feeling incredibly fortunate to witness the unfolding journey along the River Danube through the eyes of our adventurous travelers.

Each of their pictures have captured the essence of Austria and Germany.

We hear there was a great dance last night onboard the ship and it was the kiwi ladies who were stealing the show!

We're eager to see what new stories unfold as they pass through Germany into the Netherlands next week. We can't wait to keep experiencing this incredible trip through their perspective!

A big thankyou to the ladies who are letting us follow along through their photographs. We appreciate you!

15/05/2024

Join us for an epic journey from Whangārei to Italy, Spain and Portugal. Explore iconic cities like Venice, Florence, Rome, Barcelona and Lisbon, with guided tours and tastings.

Discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Medieval Towns and stunning landscapes. With free time to explore on your own, you’ll have the ultimate travel experience.

The options give you autonomy on how and what you want to see on this 18,26 or 34 day adventure. Contact us to book your spot on this amazing experience.

11/05/2024

Hey Everyone!

Check out these amazing images captured by one of our Ladies on tour.

The group is currently cruising the Danube. What a magical time they're having and they've been blessed with such great weather

Did you know, when you sign up and join a tour with us you're linked to the private touring group for that destination on Facebook. This means the people and friends you travel with can all share their images and videos together so you don't miss out if you missed taking that one picture or video. You can almost guarantee someone else has got it or taken it from a different angle.

Its also great to be able to add your family to the group, which we can help arrange. This way they can sit at home and follow you along your journey, seeing what you're getting up to each day.

If you would like to know more about our upcoming trips, keep an eye on the next few days for snippets of what you could expect, otherwise follow the weblink on our page for more information.

02/05/2024

The Red Centre and The Top End - July 2024

Our Next Northern Trip is one for the Adventurers, Spending 2 nights exploring the stunning Uluru National Park, coaching up to Alice Springs and spending 3 nights before continuing on to Darwin where you'll spend 5 nights exploring the top end of Australia.

Follow the link below to find out more about this upcoming tour.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/the-red-centre-the-top-end/

30/04/2024

Vivid Sydney!

Your Hosted Tour Includes:
• You, Me & Friends Host/Driver/organiser
• Pick up & drop off from your central Whangarei home
• Flight: Auckland-Sydney-Auckland (economy class)
• Transfer: Airport to hotel to airport
• 5 nights in 4-star accommodation
• Dinner Cruise Sydney Harbour
• Chicago Show Ticket
• Entry to Vivid Events throughout tour
• Entry to key Sydney sightseeing landmarks
• Hosted Discovery of Sydney markets and neighbourhoods

Follow the link to our website to find out more about this amazing upcoming tour.

https://youmeandfriends.co.nz/tours/vivid-sydney/

12/04/2024

Happy Friday, adventurers! Get ready for another dose of wanderlust with our latest update from the Vietnam/Cambodia tour.

Dive into the mesmerizing beauty of Lan Ha Bay with an incredible video captured by David, showcasing its serene and moody charm.

But that's not all! We've got an exclusive sneak peek into a day in the life of our travelers. From Tai Chi sessions at sunrise to exploring the quaint villages of Viet Hai, every moment is packed with adventure and discovery.

Read on and immerse yourself in the allure of Lan Ha Bay. Don't forget to share your favorite part in the comments below. We can't wait to hear what captures your imagination.

- Our group is currently onboard Orchid Cruises, ready for an exciting day of exploration in Lan Ha Bay.

Their day begins bright and early at 6:30 AM with a rejuvenating Tai Chi session on the sundeck. Taking a moment to connect with their surroundings as they stretch and flow with the gentle movements. Afterward, they’ll be in the dining room for a hearty breakfast while soaking in the morning views of the bay's stunning landscape.

As they continue their journey at 7:00 AM, breakfast will be served at the restaurant, allowing them to savor delicious food while the cruise sails on.

At 8:00 AM, they’ll transfer to a day boat for a memorable visit to Viet Hai village. They’ll embark on a bicycle trip along village paths, passing through lush rainforests and a mysterious dark tunnel. Along the way, they’ll be treated to breathtaking views of rice fields and the chance to immerse themselves in the local life of this valley community. We also offer an optional, an electric car service is available for those who prefer a smoother ride. 😊

After their village exploration, they'll return to the day boat to continue their journey through Lan Ha Bay. Lunch will be served onboard at 12:00 PM, offering a delicious opportunity to refuel and relax.

At 2:00 PM, they'll set our sights on Ba Trai Dao, also known as the Three Peaches islets. This tranquil oasis boasts beautiful scenery, perfect for scenic kayaking or simply unwinding on the sandy beach.

As the afternoon draws to a close, they'll return to Orchid Cruises by 5:00 PM. Here, they have the chance to participate in a cooking class, take a refreshing swim in untouched areas, or indulge in our Happy Hour (buy 1 get 1) at the bar while witnessing the magnificent sunset over the Gulf of Tonkin.

Come evening, at 7:30 PM, they’re in for a delightful Fusion Dinner. The talented onboard catering staff will serve up delicious local cuisine in an intimate and romantic setting.

At 9:30 PM, they can head up to the top deck to soak in the nighttime beauty of the bay. Relax with a drink from the bar and try their hand at night squid fishing, or perhaps unwind with a movie in the restaurant. For those seeking extra relaxation, massage services are available.

With another day of adventure behind them, they’ll settle in for a restful overnight stay onboard. Tomorrow promises even more excitement and unforgettable experiences.

We cant wait to see more from their adventures!

10/04/2024

Hi Everyone!

We're living vicariously through our travelers as they embark on an extraordinary adventure from Taiwan to Vietnam and Cambodia, hosted by David!

Every update has us on the edge of our seats, soaking in the sights, sounds, and flavors of Asia through their eyes.

As they explored Taipei, we could almost taste the tantalizing street food, feel the energy of the bustling markets, and imagine ourselves wandering through the picturesque villages. It was also awesome to see some image of them releasing those wishing lanterns into the sky towards Heaven. How awesome is it that they got to experience that.

Now, as they roam the enchanting streets of Hanoi and start their journey through Vietnam, we eagerly await each update. Check out some of the stunning pictures David has taken on their journey so far!

Keep an eye out for more pictures and updates from the group currently on Tour through Vietnam and Cambodia.

08/04/2024

Hi Everyone, meet Betty.

She's our online host for our private travel tour groups and a contact "person" available online.

She helps guide us to a place where you can connect with fellow travelers, share your photos, reminisce about the incredible adventures we embark on together and get inspired for your next adventure.

She helps us respond promptly to messages and inquiries from potential travelers, providing detailed information about tour itineraries, pricing, accommodation, and booking procedures.

She may engage with group members by commenting on their posts, liking their photos, and fostering a sense of community and camaraderie among travelers.

She may share relevant articles, videos, or blog posts related to travel tips, destination guides, cultural insights, and sustainable tourism practices to enrich the group's knowledge and inspire meaningful discussions.

Overall, Betty serves as a virtual hub for passionate travelers to connect, share, and relive their adventures while also serving as a platform for the travel tour company to assist our travelers with their needs.

If you receive a Friend Request from Betty, please know its not a scam and its one of our "human" team members wanting to assist you in accessing all that we can offer before, during and after your travels.

Betty - and the YMAF Team :)

08/04/2024

Did you know we have two tours to experience 'The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel" ?

Our departing dates are
- 27th April 2024 (now full)
- 04th May 2024 (available to join)

Our Tours include the 2pm Matinee and a light dinner in Warkworth on the way home.

Did we forget to mention that we also all go together in a Mini-Van leaving from our Carpark at the Whangarei Club on Rust Ave?

If this sounds (and looks - check out the preview below) like something you would be interested in, get in touch with us today to find out more.

Phone: 09 955 1116
Email: [email protected]

or use the message function and one of our team will get back to you as soon as we can.

04/04/2024

Calling all adventurers!

Our incredible group tour has just returned from the mesmerizing landscapes of Tasmania, and we're bursting with stories and memories to share!

From the rugged beauty of Nelson Falls and Cradle Mountain, to our day out on Gordon River and Sarah Island, Tasmania's natural wonders left us speechless at every turn. Let's not forget the charming streets of Hobart, filled with history, culture, and delicious local cuisine!

But it wasn't just about the sights – it was the shared moments, the laughter, and the bonds formed along the way that made this journey truly unforgettable.

Missed out on this adventure? Don't fret! Stay tuned for updates on our upcoming tours, and join us as we explore more breathtaking destinations around the globe!

27/03/2024

Did you Know....

Karen is currently on Tour with a group in Tasmania.
Today they are checking out Freycinet National Park.

Headlined by Wineglass Bay but covering so much more, Freycinet is one of the state’s favourite coastal playgrounds.
The beaches and the walks make this such a great activity to add to your list when visiting Tasmania.

See the link below to discover more about Tasmanias favourite National Park.

https://www.discovertasmania.com.au/regions/east-coast/freycinet-national-park/

22/03/2024

Join us on an unforgettable You Me and Friends small group hosted tour to Sydney, Australia to experience the dazzling Vivid lights festival and catch a performance of the iconic Broadway show, Chicago. Witness the city come alive with vibrant colors and light displays as we explore the Vivid lights installations throughout Sydney. Then, immerse yourself in the world of jazz, murder, and fame as we attend a captivating performance of Chicago. Don't miss out on this amazing opportunity to see two of Sydney's most famous attractions in one trip! Contact us now to book your place on the trip.