Go Greek Island Hopping!
Greek Islands
Azure waters met by angel sand, barrels of feta and tavernas serving Ouzo. Greece is undeniably idyllic. More-so when hopping between islands via ferry.
There are multiple islets, but Mykonos is most likely the head-turner you dream about, with sugar-cube buildings and bright blue doors.
Santorini’s defined by its cliff-cascading position and cobalt domed roofs, while the islands of Chios and Samos are a little more sedate, famed for tiled villages and sweet Muscat wine.
Ask about our 12 island hopping passes, or the more versatile FlexiPass.
Sarah Crowe, from HOT High Street Lane shares her Greek Island indulgence.
The only thing as beautiful as Greek sights is Greek food. Olives are everywhere and the locals’ standards are exacting. It probably goes without saying that the seafood is the freshest around, and calamari is something of a natural treasure. The decadent feta and other cheeses are unmissable, but you really must leave space for moussaka, a baked dish of heaven involving aubergine, mince, tomato, garlic, spices, and cheese.
If you like a cocktail, taste the ouzo, a dry anise-flavoured aperitif that is unspeakably strong - I don’t recommend matching the locals sip for sip! Wine drinkers should try asking for local barreled varieties, which are delicious and much cheaper than bottled.
Punctuality is not a top Greek priority, and popular attitude is that nothing needs to be rushed. As a result, it’s best not to expect fast meals in tavernas or public transportation that runs like clockwork. Instead, think of it as a reminder to slow down, sip in the salty air and enjoy your holiday – island style!
Kyla Strahl
House of Travel Christchurch City
Kyla spent over 6 years crewing on luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Baltic, Adriatic, Caribbean, Pacific and North Seas; along with several Atlantic Ocean crossings. Moving to more adventure land travel Kyla has experienced India, South America and South Africa as a part of the whopping 57 countries she has explored!
"Whether it be cruising, OE's or travelling with a young family my first-hand knowledge will certainly be an asset when planning your winter break, European adventure, or once in a life time dream holiday!"
"Life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better." - Simon Raven
Why I love travel:
Travelling takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to experience new things that we otherwise wouldn't in our normal day to day lives. It enriches your life from meeting new people from all walks of life, trying new food from different corners of the world, and humbles you to appreciate the small things in life.
My travel tips:
- Always have travel insurance
- Wake up early - whether it be to see the sunrise, or to skip a queue, or get a coffee at the local café.
- Make a list of the things you want to experience and pre book as much as you can.
- Stay local with everything easily accessible on foot.
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Italy - rolling hills and crystal blue waters, stunning villages and cathedrals, amazing food and wine.
- South Africa - rich cultural experiences, amazing wildlife on safari, breath-taking landscapes.
- Croatia - stunning beaches and unbelievable landscapes from the islands in the Adriatic to the Krka National Park.
- Mexico - amazing food, fascinating Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and fabulous architecture from ancient temples to the colonial cathedrals.
- Canada - my birth land! The people, the rich forests, lakes, mountains and wildlife.
What's in my suitcase:
- First Aid kit as you can never be too prepared.
- Travel Diary - make an effort to write down the highlights of your day, you will look back in appreciation.
- Sarong or thin, long scarf - will come in handy as a towel or to cover your shoulders when need be.
- Small change of local currency - whether it be to buy a bottle of water or a quick snack or to leave a tip.
Kyla
Courtney McCormack
House of Travel Morrinsville
Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.
Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.
With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.
I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.
Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.
Courtney
Leanne Newton
House of Travel Upper Riccarton
Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel.
It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people.
It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.
Peter Davies
House of Travel Wellington City
I’m Pete, the globetrotting geek. A passionate traveller who thrives on learning and discovery.
Travel provides an endless array of opportunities for this; it’s a way to experience new, ever changing and always exciting places, meet curious people and engross yourself in a different culture or witness wildlife that is truly wild.
Be it museums, historical landmarks, wildlife excursions or gaming havens – I revel in these aspects of adventure and love to share it with others.
To put it in other words.
Whether you seek the wonder of enchanted cities, the solitude of mystical forests, or the thrills of a perilous expedition, I am your trusted companion—your Gandalf, if you will—helping you navigate the world’s vastness and ensuring that your journey is free from worry and full of memories to last the ages.
Let’s together, chart your course through the lands, creating an adventure that will be sung about for years to come. As a wise halfling once said.
“Not all those who wander are lost” – Bilbo Baggins
Peter
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