I have just returned from a very long overdue trip to New Zealand. It has actually been close to 15 years since I was last in my home country.

My sister and family have visited me in the States twice during that time, so it was certainly my turn to make the trip. The original plan was to make this trip at Christmas time when it is summer over there.

However, this did not work out, so I opted for May when the New Zealand weather hopefully would not be too cold. My sister had several weeks vacation in May, so it would work out well.

Of course there were a lot of changes around the city of Christchurch, which I originally left back in 1976. Lots of progress and new things to discover as well as old things to rediscover.

Christchurch continues to be the most English city of New Zealand. At the same time it is a very metropolitan city, with marked Asian cultures as well as Indian culture. Indian and Asian supermarkets offering genuine Asian and Indian imports which can certainly add color and flavor to the dinner table. I have always liked curries.

My sister and I spent quite a bit of time exploring as if we were tourists. It is always fun to try and see your own city through the eyes of a tourist. As you can see by my heavy coat, it was a little chilly (for a Texan anyway). Actually it was very pleasant. as the sun was out in full force most days.

There is so much to do in and around the city of Christchurch. A first time visitor could easily spend a week or more just in this city. I am planning a blog that will offer tips on trips to and New Zealand and other countries I travel to.

One of the great ways to see the center of the city is to take a trip on the Tram. The commentators are excellent and we thoroughly enjoyed the excursion.

It was of great interest to see a photo of Sir Edmund Hillary at the back of the tram. We were told that he had taken his final trip on that very tram not long before his death.

Rediscovering your roots can be a great experience. It is always great to remember where you grew up.

Have you taken time to rediscover some great experiences of your life lately?

P.S. Keep on eye on this blog where the new Travel Blog will be announced. Of course you can follow me on Twitter also and stay informed of progress on this coming project.

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• Sir Edmund Hillary’s family in court battle with museum (telegraph.co.uk)