Back story - Tony DeLorenzo - the Italian Stallion.

We are long time friends and have been planning this trip since the end of 2011.

I met Tony DeLorenzo in 1986. Kairanga Court Hostel, Massey University, Palmerston North. My room was upstairs, his directly underneath.

We became good friends. I think because we are quite similar but different. For example, he's a boy and much hairer than me.

We like to think that we are funny. For being funny, out of 10, I give Tony a 15. Most of those points are for looking funny tho.

He's been an amazing friend for so long. And he's been the man on the spot organising this trip. The draft budgets, the style of music and dress code for each destination. Regular updates and tips.

Thanks Tony - you've been ACE!

Travel Update from Tony - Tuesday 27 August 2013

Had to see new job up the coast so late tip for today. Miranda may be on a yellow for comments made on the blog. Well done. A yellow and we haven't even left yet! Good score for M tho getting a ride to Welly on Sat. Nice one! Weather for Welly. Rubbish turning to crap and worsening. Good time to go on holiday I think.

Shanghai 7:17 a.m. 27 Some Cloud

London 12:17 a.m. 15 Sunny

Barcelona 1:17 a.m. 20 Some Cloud

Nerja 1:17 a.m. 24 Some Cloud

Marrakech 12:17 a.m. 21 Some Cloud

Abu Dhabi 3:17 a.m. 31 Sunny

Tip of the Day If you like it buy it. Don't assume that you will go back to a specific shop. Travellers seldom back track so if you like something get it while you are there. Also assuming that you will find something similar, or at a better price, just because it was the first thing you saw in a market is often flawed too. But remember… be careful out there. You still have to carry it to the hotel and home.