The view to Auckland City from the summit of Rangitoto Island.

It’s so close at only 25mins from Auckland City by ferry, but Rangitoto is like a different world. The walk to the summit is gentle and good for the whole family. The ferry timetable is pretty limited, so, be conservative with how much time you allow yourself on the island. This is all you need to remember: be back at the wharf on time for the return journey or spend the night.

A selfie stick is prepared in front of Edinburgh Castle

It was hard to believe that this small area in front of Edinburgh Castle is where the Military Tattoo takes place. It seems genuinely tiny, and also on a distinct slope (the Lord’s of the North so to speak). To the right; the construction of the grandstand had begun. 1 month to put up, then 1 month to pull down. To the left; the entrance to the castle.

The tour guide had ducked away to retrieve tickets leaving enough time for the group to have a smoke (the most common European option), have an ice-cream (a strange winter option, but an option none the less), or grab a cheeky selfie.

Before this trip, I hadn’t appreciated that selfie sticks were such a thing – for young and the not so young it should be said – but every day had become a gauntlet of protecting one’s eyes from being taken out by a stray telescoping pole.