I've been on two Red Carpet tours and am considering a third.

The 12 day LOTR tour of both islands is a joy. Vic and Raewyn James have such an extensive knowledge of their country and the Lord of the Rings, and a fellowship forms very quickly with such wonderful leaders. The tour visits places that the ordinary traveller might never find, and which immerse you immediately in the world of Middle-earth. Along the way there seems to be a never ending queue of wonderful people eager to share their experiences and expertise...giving a rare insight into the making of the films.

The week I spent touring the north island on the Northern Escape Artists and Photography tour was fabulous. Vic and Raewyn again looked after us all the way, finding us fabulous places to paint or photograph, and Daniel Reeve provided expertise and inspiration for a crew of painters.

The various hotels are great - comfortable places often with a lot of character - the sort of place you want to go back and stay at again. Restaurants and snack stops provided a range of choice for all sorts of diets and preferences. The various recreational activities allowed some adventures along the way - all great fun.

Reviewed about 14 years ago and experienced in April 2010