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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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Wendy Harrison

Wendy Harrison

House of Travel Rotorua

I am an adventure seeker with a passion for exploring the world and experiencing everything it has to offer. I'm always on the lookout for new and exciting experiences and have a particular love for small group tours and adventures. Whether it's cruising in the Galapagos Islands or exploring new cities, I love the intimacy and camaraderie that comes with traveling in small groups. 

When I'm not adventuring, you can often find me at live sports and events, cheering on my favourite teams and soaking up the excitement of the crowd. Or I'm equally at home soaking up the sun during a beautiful island beach holiday.  

I also have a love for cruising and have had the opportunity to explore new destinations such as the Mediterranean, the coastlines of Spain and Portugal, the Rhône and Saône Rivers in Southern France, canal boating in England, and cruising across the Tasman. All while enjoying the comforts and amenities of life on the water. 

One of my favourite pastimes is people watching whether it's from a cafe in Paris or on the streets of New York. For me, there is nothing more fascinating than observing the unique and diverse cultures of the world and the interactions of the people within them. I'm always seeking out new experiences and adventures, driven by a deep curiosity and a thirst for knowledge and understanding. 

Wendy

Kyla Strahl

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!" 

Years in the industry:
No. of countries visited: 57 
Favourite place to visit: Italy
Next place on the list to visit: Plantation Island

"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

Nicky de Clifford

Nicky de Clifford

House of Travel Merivale

Having spent the last 30 years in the Travel Industry I can safely say "I love my job" !!

Getting to put together dream holidays is very rewarding and it's great to see so many more Kiwis getting out to see this amazing world of ours...

I love to tailor holidays that are uniquely personal to you. Every person has different needs, wants and "must do's" for their holiday. Nothing is cookie cutter in the world of travel so being able to put together an itinerary that is bespoke and personal is rewarding for myself and for you, the traveller.

My favourite destinations would be Europe (especially France and Italy), South East Asia (especially Vietnam and Thailand) and of course our Island neighbours. I have been to Fiji numerous times and every time I just love it.
But there are so many places I have yet to travel to and I look forward to sharing my travel stories along the way.

I look forward to working with you..

Nicky

Linley Pearce

Linley Pearce

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square


I have travelled to many countries & experienced many forms of travel - plane, train, river boat, coach, helicopter, longtail boat ....... I love to travel to old cities as I love buildings & architecture, food, wine, people watching & taking photos.

Travel constantly challenges me, I especially love interesting flight itineraries. I have over 35 yrs experience in this complex and dynamic industry, I can use my knowledge to work with you to create your journey no matter the destination.

Linley

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Paella making in Barcelona