I remember how we thought what a lovely looking place, when we were all younger, AND broke, driving south past the Taupo, Millenium Hotel. Well, not so broke now, so I stayed there on my way north (1400 km in total, wow) as a treat for myself as I was travelling alone.
After two days driving in a noisy van full of my earthly possessions – first day driving 12 hours with stops only for petrol and coffee. (THEN being grossly overcharged at a ho-hum motel with a gracious smile as he’d taken my money, the last two hours on a completely unfamiliar road in a pitch black of a night with NO street lights, NO house lights or even other traffic, with road works every 200 metres). On being shown my room, I just fell into bed after the concierge and left me to it.
Second day I relaxed on the ferry for four hours, bliss, then drove on again for a further four hours, the last hour and a half on the road down from the Desert Road, which contained several 35km, 45km, and even 25km bends frazzling my nerves even further. Note to self, never drive that road when tired.
I arrived at the hotel pretty tired and had a mishap just outside the front doors. Very embarrassing, but receptionist treated this as just another normal day, provided a large towel and guest laundry to rectify problem.
Lovely shower in beautiful room overlooking the enclosed outdoor pool. Then (in bathrobe, clothes still not ready) down to Lakefront bar for a drink, Baileys and Cointreau a new favourite. Finally, in to dinner where I chose the Vegetarian Curry, Tandoori Cauliflower served with chickpea pancakes and 3 beautiful sauces. Followed by Chocolate Silk, with mandarin segments and orange caviar, gorgeous and not too sweet.
The whole meal was so YUM, I am trying to think of an excuse to go there again for further indulgences. Battery was flat on my phone so I was unable to take photos this trip.
Next time however, I’ll make sure to have not only my phone, but also my camera with me, and this time, I will be able to indulge myself with hopefully no problems. But secure in the knowledge that if any do arise, the wonderful staff there will make it all go away.