Wow. Thank you to everyone for all the fabulous suggestion. I am very excited about all these possabilities and am actively researching them to see what is feasible money and time wise. I'll definitely give a trip report of where I end up. If only I could take off 4 + months from work and go everywhere.

CrazyCanuk - I can't make it to New Zealand this year but it is definitely at the top of list for places to visit - yes I have an actual hand written list of all the places I dream of visiting before my time on this earth is done. Sigh..maybe in the next year or two.

Thanks again every one. You are amazing and always so helpful!