It's two weeks today until the Romance Writers of New Zealand conference - cue excited dancing! The RWNZ conferences are always a lot of fun and it's been a few years since I've been across the ditch to attend one, so my anticipation is high.
I'm actually leaving on Monday (gah! Someone needs to start packing!) so I can spend some time before the conference with friends, including fellow Lovecat, Barbara DeLeo. Then onto the conference itself, where I'm planning on catching up with more Lovecats - Yvonne Lindsay, Louisa George, and Sue Mackay. Sounding like a pretty fun time, right?
I'll be presenting two workshops, sitting on a panel, attending a dinner with my publisher, drinking cocktails, and chatting all things writing and books.
But, as mentioned above, I haven't started packing yet. And although it's winter in both places, a sub-tropical Queensland winter is *nothing* like a New Zealand winter, so I'm starting to panic about having enough warm clothes.
Any tips on packing for a winter holiday? Or things I should try and see while I'm there? All advice welcome!
I'm actually leaving on Monday (gah! Someone needs to start packing!) so I can spend some time before the conference with friends, including fellow Lovecat, Barbara DeLeo. Then onto the conference itself, where I'm planning on catching up with more Lovecats - Yvonne Lindsay, Louisa George, and Sue Mackay. Sounding like a pretty fun time, right?
I'll be presenting two workshops, sitting on a panel, attending a dinner with my publisher, drinking cocktails, and chatting all things writing and books.
But, as mentioned above, I haven't started packing yet. And although it's winter in both places, a sub-tropical Queensland winter is *nothing* like a New Zealand winter, so I'm starting to panic about having enough warm clothes.
Any tips on packing for a winter holiday? Or things I should try and see while I'm there? All advice welcome!
Our weather has been surprisingly AMAZING lately, but of course that could all change in an instant! Luckily I have a never ending supply of hats, gloves and scarves incase the real winter decides to show up! Roll on Monday (but not too fast. I still need to type 'the end' before you get here!)
ReplyDeleteAmazing weather would be most kind to this poor Queenslander! Can't wait to see you!
DeleteHope you have a fabulous time, Rachel!
ReplyDeleteJust take heaps of layers, then you'll be set for any weather, and you can add or shed as required :)
Michelle
Michelle, that is most excellent advice! Layers. I'll look like the Michelin Man! :)
DeleteOh, what fun you'll have. In my experience, a glass of bubbly always helps warm one up. ;-)
ReplyDeleteLooking forward to hearing all about your NZ adventures!
Now *that's* good advice. Sensible, plus fun. Every time I have a glass I'll be thinking I'm simply being sensible!
DeleteI second Michelle's advice. So envious of you Rach! The NZ conference is so lovely. Must get across the ditch again one day soon!
ReplyDeleteAmy, you should! Plus, we should organise that writing retreat in NZ that we're always talking about!
DeleteYes! I was thinking next year but if you've just been....
DeleteYes, but then I'll be in the rhythm! I'll do some sounding out while I'm over there... :)
DeleteRachel, you'll have such a lovely time and in the conference itself you'll probably be warm. Maybe a pashmina in the bag just in case? Sometimes the aircon is a bit chilly. As for the rest - a good coat and scarf make a difference.
ReplyDeleteYou know, that's excellent advice, Annie. I often forget at conferences that I'll need the option of something extra. Will do!
DeleteLooking forward to catching up, Rachel. Hate to tell you but it's snowing down south today. :) But I'm sure we can find you good weather for most of your stay.
ReplyDeleteGah! Snow! Really? I might spend the entire trip under a doona! :)
DeleteHi Rachel
ReplyDeleteI would love to be coming with you what fun it will be and we visited NZ a few years ago in November and most places were cold then so not sure although there have already been some great suggestions :) I look forward to catching up in Adelaide
Have Fun
Helen
Helen, I'm putting my faith in the ability of New Zealand to heat the places I'll be! :) Yes, to catching up in Adelaide! Yay!
DeleteMargaritas will keep you warm, Rachel. Looking forward to catching up.
ReplyDeleteElizabeth, I'm counting on you and Louisa to lead me in the direction of margaritas. :)
DeleteHmmm, layers is definitely a good idea. Also a windproof layer - although Blenheim and Auckland are not as windy as Wellington, wind can still add a bite to the temperature. A waterproof layer for rainy times.
ReplyDeleteUse http://www.metservice.com/national/home for an idea of weather, but it does look like rain based on 10 day forecast - that's likely to change though.
Lyn, you are a godsend! We check the weather here on the web all the time - I hadn't even thought to ask what the website was over there. Mr Bailey will love this too - I bet I get messages from him about the NZ weather while I'm over there. :)
DeleteRachel,
ReplyDeleteThat conference poster photo is fab. Wish I could attend your presentation. No advice on packing since I have no idea about the local weather, but hoping you miss the snow! Let us know how much stuff you take just in case that stays in the suitcase ;-)
Oh, Laura, I'm hoping I'll miss the snow too! Pretty as it might be, my fragile Qld self would probably have trouble breathing air that cold!
DeleteHow exciting that you are off to NZ, Rachel. Have a wonderful time.
ReplyDeleteRe packing, I alway put everything out on the bed in categorised piles and then half it. I like to travel light!
Jen, you're an inspiration! I'll try your method. :)
DeleteHi Rachel! I'm packing layers because that's what works best for me. I usually take a couple of singlets or shell tops that can be worn alone if it's hot or popped under a shirt and/or jumper and/or jacket. Pashminas are great as they can work as scarves or shawls. Jeans and one or two pairs of trousers and I'm done. Looking forward to meeting you.
ReplyDeleteHave lots of fun, Rachel! I've never been to a New Zealand conference but always hear how wonderful they are.
ReplyDeleteHope you have an amazing time, Rachel!!
ReplyDeleteI would definitely take a big blanket-style scarf with you, if you can find one. They're great because you can use them around your neck, throw them over your shoulders like a shawl or use them as a blanket if you need extra warmth on the plane or during the conference. Plus they fold down easily and don't need ironing.