We recently had the opportunity to tour New Zealand and we were impressed with the remembrances of the country’s wartime efforts. ANZAC (Australian and New Zealand Army Corps) troops were a significant contingent to British Commonwealth forces in the First World War and they fought in some of the most difficult engagements on the Western Front. In the second war, they fought in Greece and Crete before the Japanese entry into the war required them to be returned to the Pacific. It is said that there are over 500 world war memorials in New Zealand – I believe it. More about them at some later date.

While we did not get to Australia, that country’s history, legends, and flavor can be had by reading Cynthia Clampitt’s book Waltzing Australia. Through reminiscences of her six months criss-crossing the country, Cynthia helps us Yanks understand the personality of this rugged and slightly in-your-face country. While not strictly a travel guide, anyone thinking of visiting Australia, or just doing some ‘armchair traveling’ should read Cynthia’s book for her keen observations on interesting people and beautiful places. There is a lot more to the country than Crocodile Dundee and Sidney Opera House. You might even learn something about yourself in the process. In addition, her short observations on Australia and other topics can be found on her blog site, Waltzing Australia.