“Do as the locals do and enjoy a cocktail on a rooftop bar – 230 Fifth is as the name suggests located at 230 5th Ave. The views of the Empire State Building and out across Manhattan are incredible – and they have heaters and cosy rooftop igloos – very cool!”
A magical Christmas in New York
New York
The Big Apple does Christmas better than anywhere else, and New Yorkers seize the opportunity to celebrate every moment of it.
Start the silly season off by heading along to Rockefeller Centre to see the towering Christmas tree with the Swarovski Star and over 30,000 glittering lights. Marvel at the ice skaters zipping around Bryant Park, and be awestruck by the amazing decorations and store window displays along Fifth Avenue. Explore outdoor Christmas markets, making sure not to miss Macy’s Santaland, and check out FAO Schwarz, New York’s most famous toy store.
Christmas in New York is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Inspired for 2024? Now’s the time to be booking your magical Christmas in New York!
Tracey Edgecombe
House of Travel New Plymouth
I liken planning a holiday to baking a cake. It takes several well measured and thought out ingredients for a great result.
I have been lucky to have travelled extensively myself and being a travel consultant for more than 20 years, I use these 'ingredients' - experience and expertise - to draw on to help create amazing holidays and lifelong memories.
It is such a pleasure to help my clients get the best out of their holidays and manage an incredible team of travel professionals.
Tracey
Charlotte Campbell
House of Travel Papamoa
Travel
has been an integral part of my life for over 20 years, and I can't imagine
pursuing anything else. This year, I proudly celebrate my 17th year with
House of Travel Papamoa, where I truly love being a 'hottie.' Our store boasts
a fantastic team culture that makes coming to work a joyful experience every
day.
I find immense satisfaction in crafting bespoke itineraries that
transform my clients' dreams into reality. While the USA remains my favourite
destination, my travels have also taken me through the stunning landscapes of
New Zealand, the enchanting South Pacific, vibrant Australia, diverse Europe,
and picturesque Canada and Alaska. This year (2024), I had the incredible
opportunity to experience the magic of South Africa, where witnessing wildlife
in their natural habitat is nothing short of breath-taking. Being on safari
brings you so close to majestic animals, just meters away, creating
unforgettable memories.
Remember, your holiday begins the moment you step through our
door. I invite you to share your vision of the perfect getaway—how it looks and
feels, any research you've conducted, and your essential must-haves. The more
we delve into your aspirations together, the more extraordinary your holiday
will be!
Charlotte
Andy Gosnell
House of Travel Christchurch City
There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team—and Andy is ours. His approachable, honest style fosters strong relationships and consistently positive experiences for clients, suppliers, and colleagues alike.
Travel has always been a defining part of Andy’s life. He caught the travel bug early - 3 formative years of living in the USA during his childhood hardwired his love for travel. Since then, he has taken every opportunity to see the world, often venturing to remote and remarkable destinations. Whether trekking through the Patagonian Andes, wandering the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread around the globe, Andy is truly in his element.
With nearly ten years in the travel industry, Andy has had the opportunity to experience an exceptional range of destinations and build deep, practical knowledge. No matter where you want to go, he brings expert insight and thoughtful advice to help make your journey genuinely unforgettable.
“I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything—you're only limited by how far your imagination can stretch.”
Years in the industry: 10
Countries visited: 12
Favourite destination: Amalfi Coast
Next destination on the list: Poland
“Not all those who wander are lost.” — J.R.R. Tolkien
Why I Love Travel
The places I see and the people I meet—travel truly is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from different cultures and walks of life. Life is short; travel often.
My Travel Tips
- If you are always early, you are never late.
- Pre-book as much as possible before departure and schedule rest days on longer trips.
- Live courageously—100% of the opportunities you don’t take are missed.
My Top Three Favourite Destinations
Italy
The food, history, people, dramatic coastlines, and mountains—Italy deserves a place on everyone’s bucket list.
USA
With its extraordinary diversity of cultures and experiences, you could spend a lifetime exploring the United States and still not see it all.
Patagonia
Challenging to reach, but the dramatic landscapes that greet you make every moment of the journey worthwhile.
What’s in My Suitcase
- Kindle / E-reader – Lightweight, easy to pack, and long-lasting battery life; an essential on every trip.
- Noise-cancelling headphones – Ideal for busy airports and long-haul flights.
- Travel plug adapter – Easy to forget, but absolutely essential.
Andy
Nicky Aitken
House of Travel Papamoa
I have had a lifelong love affair for exploring the world. Raised in a family that prioritised travel, I inherited a passion for all things travel. I have lived in different countries (London, USA, Argentina) and I am fascinated with the rich tapestry of culture, people, religion and food in new places.
My love for travel has taken me to some of the world’s most amazing places!
From Mauritius to Bahamas and all in between, I have been privileged to experience the world and being able to speak and understand 5 languages English, Afrikaans, Dutch, German and Greek) certainly comes in helpful.
I have grown up in South Africa, spending most of my adult life there, being able to show my clients what makes this region so unique is a privilege. Africa was my backyard after all and even after living in NZ for almost 12 years, my heart still beats to the African Drum.
For me, choosing a favourite destination is impossible. But .. Bali has literally captivated my heart, and even though I have been there 20+ times, I still always find new things to uncover. As does the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles, these islands just have the “it” factor
I also love ocean cruising, especially Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Cruising offers such a great variety and a chance to see multiple destinations and experiencing iconic landmarks and locations from your hotel on the sea.
I WOULD SAY MY PASSION IS MAKING MY CLIENTS DREAM HOLIDAYS COME TRUE AND I PRIDE MYSELF ON MY EFFICIENT SERVICE AT ALL TIMES.
Our North America deals 20
Best. Holidays. Ever!
Start here
Let us help you find your perfect holiday! Here's how to get in touch...
Want the insider word on all things travel?
Sign up below and be the first to hear about our hottest holiday deals, flight steals, cruise deals and essential travel hints and tips from our team of travel specialists.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!