Russell, Bay of Islands

I have a million things to say about our trip to New Zealand, but I have to start with my favorite: Russell.

Russell is a small town situated in the Bay of Islands, far north on the north island of New Zealand. Surrounded by miles of ocean, sail boats, and the most beautiful holiday homes I've ever seen, it's quaint and charming and perfect. Although most of the homes on the island cost millions of dollars, (one of the resorts can even cost upwards of $25,000 dollars a night (!!!)) I'm absolutely convinced that if I were to ever strike it rich, my first purchase would be here.

We usually spend an afternoon in Russell when we're visiting, always grabbing a bite for lunch at Sally's (the pasta is molto bene!) But I imagine if I were to ever live here, I'd spend my days eating Tim Tams from the bakery, and my evenings watching outdoor movies at one of the local hotels (this really happens!) or by taking long walks on the beach at night :) Yes, this has to be one of the most beautiful places on earth.