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Paella making in Barcelona

Spain

Return from Spain with the knowhow to whip up a mean Paella.

Originating from Valencia, Paella consists of stock-flavoured rice and (traditionally) a mix of chicken, rabbit, snails and beans. But these days there are over 200 variations.

There are cooking schools with trips to La Boqueria market (Barcelona’s most famous) before you roll up your sleeves and learn how to make Paella. And then there are small group cooking classes in outdoor kitchens, or the chef’s own apartment.

Discover recipes handed down through generations, and classes delivered with complimentary sangria. 

Connect with a Spain specialist

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Maree Thompson

Maree Thompson

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!

I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!! 

I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!

I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm. 

I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled. 

I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general. 

I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.

My Travel Tips

* I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad. 

*Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!

*Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.

*Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel. 

The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.

Maree


Jo Coolen

Jo Coolen

House of Travel Kapiti Coast

For a long time, I've told people I have the best job in the world and I still stand by that. 

What could be better than turning peoples dreams into reality? I never know what the day will bring and isn't variety the spice of life? 

My travel journey started a bit later in my life, so I haven't been everywhere YET, but I am having a damn good crack at it, gathering local knowledge along the way. 

Jo

Tori Melody

Tori Melody

House of Travel Devonport

Lovely to meet you — and welcome, fellow adventure seekers!

I’m Tori, your dedicated travel consultant and in-house explorer. With four years in the industry, countless miles travelled, and a genuine passion for crafting meaningful journeys, I’m here to help turn your travel dreams into experiences that stay with you for life.

As a USA travel expert and global theme park enthusiast (yes — Disney and Universal are my happy places!), I specialise in the kinds of holidays that bring people together and spark unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a multi-generational family escape, a self-drive road trip, a backpacking adventure, or a tailor-made private itinerary, I love creating travel plans that feel personal, seamless, and exciting.

Adventure comes in many forms — hiking hidden trails, tasting a city’s flavours on a food tour, discovering rich history, sailing on a cruise, or joining an 18–35s group tour to meet new friends. Whatever your style, I’m here to match you with experiences that broaden your horizons and deepen your love for the world around you.

Alongside planning travel, I also run our store’s social media pages, keeping our community inspired with fresh ideas and insider knowledge.

If you’re looking for a consultant who brings passion, expertise, creativity, and genuine care to every itinerary, I’d love to be part of your next adventure

Tori 

Megan Loughridge

Megan Loughridge

House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD

With over 20 countries visited and four group tours under my belt, I understand just how impactful a well-planned journey can be. Each trip has given me new insights—not only into different cultures and places—but also into what truly makes a travel experience memorable.

I genuinely enjoy the planning process: mapping out itineraries, uncovering hidden gems, and making sure every detail is just right. It’s this same thoughtfulness and enthusiasm I bring to every trip I help design. Whether it’s a relaxed escape, a cultural deep dive, or an adventure-filled group tour, my goal is to create travel experiences that are exciting, seamless, and tailored to you.

When I’m not travelling, you’ll usually find me being a proud (and slightly crazy) dog lady—spending time with my three dogs and competing in dog agility. My love of animals flows into my travel values too, and I’m a big believer in travelling ethically and responsibly, with care and respect for local communities, cultures, and wildlife.


Megan

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Paella making in Barcelona