It’s fair to say that Gary is well travelled, having undertaken everything from overland trips through east and southern Africa to adventures through South-East Asia, which eventually led him to becoming a diving instructor in Thailand. Then, via the vibrant cultures and varied sites of South America and India, and some shorter trips through Europe, he finally put down some roots – in Australia. And, between working for a local tour operator, he took full advantage of his new surroundings , travelling the length and breadth of the country to mix in such iconic sites as Sydney, Uluru and the Great Barrier Reef with a host of off-the-beaten-track gems, including Jervis Bay, Phillip Island and Kakadu National Park. He then hopped across the Tasman Sea to explore New Zealand, experiencing everything from heli-hiking on Franz Josef Glacier to watching England take on the All Blacks amid the urbane charms of Auckland.

Favourite country

New Zealand

Favourite moment

Diving in Thailand, following a turtle when a whale shark swam above my head!

Helpful history

I used to live in both Australia and New Zealand, working for a local tour operator. This has given me a plenty of on-the-ground knowledge of both countries, and how best to work an itinerary of either – or both!

Ask me about

• Which island resort to stay at in the Whitsunday Islands
• The best luxury lodges in Queenstown
• How to book a table at the Ninja Restaurant in Tokyo
• Cruising aboard a luxury junk boat in Halong Bay
• Where to see wildlife up close in Australia’s national parks