April 25 – June 4, 2016
There are basically two essential components for us to love a chosen “home base,” (a place we stay put for a few weeks). The first I’ve covered: feeling comfortable and happy at the marina (or moorage, anchorage, etc.). The other is having a pleasant town or city nearby.
Of course much of this depends on being able to get to that town or city. In the north island, we had a car so we could go anywhere, but in the south island we were car-less. We worried that it would be a long walk to town, but come to find out there’s an easy walk to a riverside promenade that goes right to the heart of town. The total time is about 15 minutes, but it’s a beautiful, pleasant walk so it seems short. We made this walk at least once a day and always enjoyed it. (Below, a few photos of why we liked this walk so much–click to enlarge and scroll.)
Of course, being able to get to town is one thing; liking the town is another. This was no problem with Nelson–it’s a very pretty place with lots of hanging flower baskets, stores and shops, eateries, markets, and access to whatever we needed. (Do you need electronic parts? fresh bread? Starbuck’s frappuccinos? wedding ring repair? great eateries? inexpensive car rentals for road excursions? supermarkets? boat parts? finally getting that pesky cyst removed from your back by a great dermatologist? It’s all here!)
While I’ve already posted my best photos of Nelson, I have a few more below to give you a feeling for the place. It was getting well into fall by the time we settled there, but the flower baskets still bloomed, the sun still shone, and the temperatures were pleasant. Nelson was a great place to spend this time. –Cyndi
