Topics in Rheumatology, Women's Health, & Domestic Violence

Sydney, Australia - The whole world's in love with Sydney, and for good reason. It's stylish, it's sophisticated, and it's home to some of the friendliest people on the planet. This gateway to Australia has it all: endless outdoor adventure, golden sandy beaches, a bustling arts scene, and world-class restaurants where the dishes go way beyond the local Vegemite. As the starting point for your conference at sea, Sydney isn't just a place to board a ship; it's an essential first chapter of your journey, and one that absolutely merits arriving a day or two early. After a long flight, the temptation to simply transfer and board can be strong, but to do so is to miss the essence of this magnificent harbour city. Arriving early allows you to acclimate to the time zone, ensuring you begin your conference refreshed and engaged, rather than battling jet lag. More importantly, it provides a well-deserved opportunity to decompress and immerse yourself in a new culture before your professional responsibilities begin. Think of it as a prelude to your vacation—a chance to explore at your own pace. **Getting Your Bearings** Navigating from Sydney Airport (SYD) to the city center, where the cruise terminals are located, is straightforward. The Airport Link train is a fast and efficient option, whisking you to central stations like Circular Quay in under 20 minutes. Taxis and rideshare services are also readily available for a more direct, door-to-door transfer to your hotel. **A Suggested 48-Hour Sydney Prelude** **Day 1: Harbour Icons and Historic Charm** After settling into your hotel—consider staying in The Rocks, Circular Quay, or the Central Business District (CBD) for ultimate convenience—begin your exploration where Sydney’s modern story began: the harbour. Take a leisurely stroll along the Circular Quay promenade. That first, real-life glimpse of the Sydney Opera House’s soaring white sails against the arch of the Harbour Bridge is a truly unforgettable moment. For a deeper appreciation of its architectural genius, take a guided tour of the Opera House, which reveals the fascinating stories and acoustic wonders within its shells. As the afternoon sun casts a golden glow, wander into The Rocks, the historic neighborhood nestled under the Harbour Bridge. Here, cobblestone laneways, hidden courtyards, and beautifully preserved 19th-century buildings tell the story of Sydney’s colonial past. Pop into one of Australia’s oldest pubs, like The Lord Nelson Brewery Hotel, for a craft ale. For dinner, The Rocks and the adjacent Walsh Bay offer a superb collection of restaurants, from upscale dining with panoramic harbour views to cozy, character-filled bistros perfect for a relaxed meal. **Day 2: Coastal Splendor and Urban Sophistication** Dedicate your morning to experiencing Sydney’s legendary beach culture. A short bus or taxi ride will take you to the world-famous Bondi Beach. Watch the surfers carve through the waves, take a dip in the turquoise water, or simply relax on the golden sand. For one of the world's most stunning urban walks, embark on the Bondi to Coogee coastal trail. This 6-kilometer clifftop path offers breathtaking ocean vistas, passing by smaller, equally beautiful beaches like Tamarama and Bronte along the way. It’s the perfect way to energize your body and clear your mind. In the afternoon, return to the city for a dose of culture and commerce. Art lovers can visit the Art Gallery of New South Wales, with its impressive collections of Australian and international works, or the Museum of Contemporary Art Australia, conveniently located at Circular Quay. For a unique shopping experience, step inside the magnificent Queen Victoria Building (QVB), a stunning Romanesque Revival building housing three floors of elegant boutiques beneath its grand central dome. Alternatively, explore the stylish shops and galleries of Paddington’s Oxford Street. As your pre-cruise stay concludes, treat yourself to a memorable final dinner. The dynamic Barangaroo precinct offers a waterfront promenade lined with some of the city’s most acclaimed restaurants. For a more bohemian vibe, the inner-city suburbs of Surry Hills and Darlinghurst are culinary hotspots, brimming with innovative eateries, wine bars, and vibrant energy. This is your chance to savor the fresh, multicultural flavors that define modern Australian cuisine—a perfect toast to the enriching journey that lies ahead.

At Sea - Cruising - Cruising

Milford Sound, New Zealand - As we sail into the narrow fjords of the Milford Sound, even your massive ship seems to shrink in comparison to the towering cliffs topped by lush mountain terrain. Situated within Fiordland National Park, this natural wonder is part of the Te Wahipounamu World Heritage Site and is protected by its natural geography, which makes it a haven for all types of wildlife.

Dunedin, New Zealand - Dunedin is the second-largest city on New Zealand’s South Island, after Christchurch to the north. It is located in the Otago region on the southeast coast of New Zealand and serves as the region’s principal city. Dunedin cruise passengers will find a stunning, energetic city center situated at the end of a long inlet. As your ship pulls into port, admire the extinct volcano, Mount Cargill, or simply stare into the shimmering sea.

Christchurch, New Zealand - Discover the second-largest New Zealand city and urban hub of the vast Canterbury region, celebrated for its alpine landscapes, marine wildlife, and protected dark skies. Visitors stopping here on a New Zealand cruise will find vibrant street art splashed across prominent city sites, a booming arts and hospitality scene embracing new laneways and dining precincts, and diverse city attractions.

World-class architecture and design meet skilfully restored heritage treasures set between vast areas of green parks and gardens alongside the banks of the ambling Avon River. The central city is flat, easy for walking and cycling, or you can take the scenic route on a heritage tramway. Beyond the city, explore the diverse natural playground of the Port Hills and craggy Banks Peninsula with its walks, cycling tracks, and New Zealand’s longest chairlift, where the views stretch from the Pacific Ocean to the snowy peaks of the Southern Alps.

Picton, New Zealand - Imagine a scene of regal sailboats floating atop blue waters, hugged by a picturesque landscape of rolling green mountains and cloud sprinkled skies. This is Picton, New Zealand, a charming seaside town at the head of Queen Charlotte Sound. Settled by early 19th century whalers, Picton is now a bustling seaport surrounded by award winning restaurants, delightful local art galleries, water sports' activities plus beautiful yet challenging nature trails.

Wellington, New Zealand - The fact that Wellington has become New Zealand's fastest-growing weekend destination tells you something about the city. Once merely its political capital, the city's calendar is packed with celebrations, festivals and some of the country's best theater and dance. Sandwiched between steep hills on one side and the ocean on the other, New Zealand's second-largest city is a walker's paradise. Because so much of the city is within walking distance, you'll never feel the need to hire a cab. And considering the number of cafes, bars and nightclubs that line the streets, you'll probably never feel the need to go to bed, either.

Napier, New Zealand - Napier, a port city in the Hawke Bay region of New Zealand, is the art deco capital of the world. After a 7.9 magnitude earthquake, and subsequent fires, destroyed most of its commercial center in 1931, the city was rebuilt in the flamboyant art deco style prevalent at the time. The clean geometric lines, neon clocks and brightly lit fountains lend Napier a movie-set feel. Napier also boasts the highest number of sunshine hours of any town in the country, a feature that has made this region one of New Zealand's most important wine-producing areas.

Tauranga, New Zealand - The "Bay of Plenty" was named by Captain Cook after the prosperous Maori villages of the region generously replenished his supplies. Tauranga, the chief city, is a bustling port, an agricultural and timber center and a popular seaside resort. Tauranga is the gateway to Rotorua, a geothermal wonderland that is the heart of Maori culture and New Zealand's primary tourist attraction.

Tauranga, meaning "sheltered waters" in Maori, is rich with native culture and tradition. Waterskiing, windsurfing and deep-sea fishing abound in Tauranga Harbour. Rotorua with its healing, natural mineral springs is an ideal place to unwind in a therapeutic bath.

Bay of Islands, New Zealand - With its warm azure waters, golden beaches and some of the bluest skies on the planet, Bay of Islands is a magnet for the vacationally deprived. Some 150 isles, many still secluded, and a handful of coastal towns make up New Zealand's favorite holiday haven. Waitangi is your historic hotbed imbued in Maori myth and legends. Then there's Russell, the tranquil fishing town, Kerikeri with its wineries and orchards, and pretty Paihia, with its semi-central location - the perfect jumping-off point to everything the beautiful Bay of Islands has to offer.

Auckland, New Zealand - As your cruise journey concludes in Auckland, resist the immediate call of the airport. Consider this vibrant metropolis not as an exit, but as the perfect epilogue to your voyage—a well-deserved opportunity to decompress and immerse yourself in a culture that is both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in its Polynesian heritage. After days of focused learning at sea, extending your stay for one to three days offers a rewarding transition back to land, allowing you to explore the ‘City of Sails’ at a pace that feels like a true vacation. Your disembarkation point is in the heart of the city, making a post-cruise extension exceptionally convenient. Shop along the picturesque waterfront of this ever-expanding city, home to one-third of the country's population. From museums housing Maori artifacts to extinct volcanic peaks, this pedestrian-friendly city is the perfect combination of nature and commerce. Let this serve as your guide to crafting an unforgettable Auckland experience. **Day 1: Urban Sophistication and Harbour Views** After disembarking, settle into your hotel in the central business district, the chic Britomart precinct, or the lively Viaduct Harbour. Your first day is about embracing the city’s energy. Begin with a stroll through the Wynyard Quarter and Viaduct Harbour, where superyachts rest in shimmering waters, framed by an array of world-class restaurants and bars. This is the ideal spot for a leisurely lunch, perhaps featuring fresh New Zealand green-lipped mussels paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. In the afternoon, ascend the iconic Sky Tower. The 360-degree panoramic views from 328 meters up are breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the city’s geography, including the volcanic cones and twin harbours that define its landscape. For a dose of retail therapy, explore the high-end boutiques of the Britomart precinct or the flagship stores along Queen Street. As evening falls, consider a sophisticated dining experience in the Federal Street dining precinct or the vibrant, foodie-centric neighborhood of Ponsonby, just a short taxi ride away. **Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Volcanic Landscapes** Dedicate your second day to understanding the soul of New Zealand. A visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, majestically set within the Auckland Domain, is essential. While its collections are vast, the galleries dedicated to Māori and Pacific Island culture are unparalleled. Here, you can witness priceless *taonga* (treasures), see an intricately carved *marae* (meeting house), and attend a captivating Māori cultural performance that brings the history and legends of the indigenous people to life. It’s an accessible and deeply moving cultural experience. Afterward, explore the charming, historic village of Parnell for lunch. Then, connect with the city’s unique geology by visiting Mount Eden (Maungawhau). A gentle walk to the summit of this dormant volcano rewards you with another stunning panoramic view of the city, this time from the sacred rim of a massive crater. It’s a powerful reminder of the potent natural forces that shaped this land. For a change of scenery in the evening, take a short, scenic ferry ride to the historic seaside village of Devonport. Its preserved Victorian architecture, charming boutiques, and relaxed atmosphere feel a world away from the city bustle. Enjoy dinner with a spectacular view of the Auckland skyline twinkling across the water. **Day 3: An Island Escape to Waiheke** For your final day, indulge in the ultimate Kiwi escape: a trip to Waiheke Island. Just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, this island is a haven of vineyards, olive groves, and pristine beaches. Known as the ‘island of wine,’ Waiheke is home to over 30 wineries. You can easily join a guided food and wine tour or simply use the island’s bus service to hop between cellar doors. Many vineyards feature award-winning restaurants that offer exquisite lunches with views overlooking the Hauraki Gulf—a perfect setting to reflect on your journey. Beyond the wineries, you can relax on the white sands of Oneroa or Onetangi beach, browse the local art galleries, or enjoy a coastal walk. It is a day of pure, sophisticated relaxation and the perfect capstone to your time in New Zealand. **Departure Logistics** When it’s finally time to depart, Auckland Airport (AKL) is readily accessible from the city center. The SkyBus provides a direct and economical service, while taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient door-to-door transport. This seamless connectivity ensures your extended stay remains stress-free to the very end. By staying a few extra days, you transform a simple disembarkation into a rich, multi-faceted destination experience, returning home not just educated, but truly rejuvenated.

Auckland, New Zealand - As your cruise journey concludes in Auckland, resist the immediate call of the airport. Consider this vibrant metropolis not as an exit, but as the perfect epilogue to your voyage—a well-deserved opportunity to decompress and immerse yourself in a culture that is both cosmopolitan and deeply rooted in its Polynesian heritage. After days of focused learning at sea, extending your stay for one to three days offers a rewarding transition back to land, allowing you to explore the ‘City of Sails’ at a pace that feels like a true vacation. Your disembarkation point is in the heart of the city, making a post-cruise extension exceptionally convenient. Shop along the picturesque waterfront of this ever-expanding city, home to one-third of the country's population. From museums housing Maori artifacts to extinct volcanic peaks, this pedestrian-friendly city is the perfect combination of nature and commerce. Let this serve as your guide to crafting an unforgettable Auckland experience. **Day 1: Urban Sophistication and Harbour Views** After disembarking, settle into your hotel in the central business district, the chic Britomart precinct, or the lively Viaduct Harbour. Your first day is about embracing the city’s energy. Begin with a stroll through the Wynyard Quarter and Viaduct Harbour, where superyachts rest in shimmering waters, framed by an array of world-class restaurants and bars. This is the ideal spot for a leisurely lunch, perhaps featuring fresh New Zealand green-lipped mussels paired with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc. In the afternoon, ascend the iconic Sky Tower. The 360-degree panoramic views from 328 meters up are breathtaking, offering a unique perspective of the city’s geography, including the volcanic cones and twin harbours that define its landscape. For a dose of retail therapy, explore the high-end boutiques of the Britomart precinct or the flagship stores along Queen Street. As evening falls, consider a sophisticated dining experience in the Federal Street dining precinct or the vibrant, foodie-centric neighborhood of Ponsonby, just a short taxi ride away. **Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Volcanic Landscapes** Dedicate your second day to understanding the soul of New Zealand. A visit to the Auckland War Memorial Museum, majestically set within the Auckland Domain, is essential. While its collections are vast, the galleries dedicated to Māori and Pacific Island culture are unparalleled. Here, you can witness priceless *taonga* (treasures), see an intricately carved *marae* (meeting house), and attend a captivating Māori cultural performance that brings the history and legends of the indigenous people to life. It’s an accessible and deeply moving cultural experience. Afterward, explore the charming, historic village of Parnell for lunch. Then, connect with the city’s unique geology by visiting Mount Eden (Maungawhau). A gentle walk to the summit of this dormant volcano rewards you with another stunning panoramic view of the city, this time from the sacred rim of a massive crater. It’s a powerful reminder of the potent natural forces that shaped this land. For a change of scenery in the evening, take a short, scenic ferry ride to the historic seaside village of Devonport. Its preserved Victorian architecture, charming boutiques, and relaxed atmosphere feel a world away from the city bustle. Enjoy dinner with a spectacular view of the Auckland skyline twinkling across the water. **Day 3: An Island Escape to Waiheke** For your final day, indulge in the ultimate Kiwi escape: a trip to Waiheke Island. Just a 40-minute ferry ride from downtown Auckland, this island is a haven of vineyards, olive groves, and pristine beaches. Known as the ‘island of wine,’ Waiheke is home to over 30 wineries. You can easily join a guided food and wine tour or simply use the island’s bus service to hop between cellar doors. Many vineyards feature award-winning restaurants that offer exquisite lunches with views overlooking the Hauraki Gulf—a perfect setting to reflect on your journey. Beyond the wineries, you can relax on the white sands of Oneroa or Onetangi beach, browse the local art galleries, or enjoy a coastal walk. It is a day of pure, sophisticated relaxation and the perfect capstone to your time in New Zealand. **Departure Logistics** When it’s finally time to depart, Auckland Airport (AKL) is readily accessible from the city center. The SkyBus provides a direct and economical service, while taxis and ride-sharing services offer convenient door-to-door transport. This seamless connectivity ensures your extended stay remains stress-free to the very end. By staying a few extra days, you transform a simple disembarkation into a rich, multi-faceted destination experience, returning home not just educated, but truly rejuvenated.