Navigation
Back

Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan

Cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan’s pastel pink cherry blossoms smell as good as they look. While the trees seldom bear fruit, the blossom flourishes every spring, and with it comes an intoxicating floral scent.

The Japanese celebrate Sakura (cherry blossom) with Hanami, literally “flower viewing” celebrations which take place in March and April.

Locals organise flower appreciation picnics under the blooms, sitting beneath the bubble gum petals and sipping on ‘Sakura’ Pepsi. For a limited time, even the cola’s pink! 

“You have to try the Starbucks sakura-themed drinks - they are an acquired taste but has to be done!”

Recommended by Steph Towers , HOT Mt Maunganui

Steph Wheeler

Connect with a Japan specialist

See all See all
Monica Nichol

Monica Nichol

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square


I grew up dreaming about traveling the world and was fortunate to make some of those dreams come true!

Traveling gets me super excited, so if you are wanting to make your travel dreams become a reality, what are you waiting for?

Come in and see me!

Monica

Alyssa Kane

Alyssa Kane

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

After achieving my New Zealand Level 5 & 6 Diplomas in Travel and Tourism, I’m excited to have joined the team at House of Travel Rotorua back in December 2022 - not even Covid could derail my dreams of becoming a travel consultant.  

My years of studying and my personal experience of travelling to Australia on family holidays has fuelled my passion for creating unforgettable holidays. I spend my days designing holidays within New Zealand, Australia, the South Pacific and Asia, and I absolutely love arranging cruise holidays. Working with you to create your perfect getaway is what I enjoy the most, so bring me your dream holiday, and we can build it together! Leave me to focus on the details, so that you can relax and have your best adventure yet!

Alyssa
Charlotte Chalman

Charlotte Chalman

House of Travel Invercargill

Travel -it broadens our views, creates lasting memories and allows you to take a break from your ordinary. 

During my career, I have hit some ultimate highs- being the only New Zealand finalist in the prestigious Avis Travel Scholarship in 2019, winning the CLIA Rising Star award in 2020, being a finalist for the House of Travel Rookie of the Year in 2020 (not awarded to anyone due to COVID), multiple internal sales awards and of course getting to see some amazing countries through travel adventures. 

In recent years, I have taken to much more off the beaten track travel, exploring Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan, Vietnam, Sri Lanka and China and a epic three-week safari through Zimbabwe, Namibia, Botswana and South Africa. 

Although I did sneak in a wee three-week coach trip in Europe as well-we all need some creature comforts! 

I have loved travelling with my family and seeing my teenage girls' minds blown by the experiences they have in different countries- different ways of living, different foods, different cultures, amazing sites (and sights!) and really seeing what is important to other people outside of NZ. 

I now work from home but venture into the office regularly to see clients (by appointment only). I do love a good face to face catch up!

I would love to hear what adventures you have planned, whether close to home or somewhere in the weird and wonderful, and love helping pull things together to give you your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call or send me an email to get started on your journey. I look forward to meeting you! 

Charlotte

Anna O'Dell-Smith

Anna O'Dell-Smith

House of Travel Ferrymead

Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own. 

I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again. 

Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans. 


Anna 

Best. Holidays. Ever!

Start here

Let us help you find your perfect holiday! Here's how to get in touch...

Subscribe

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.

Consultant Consultant Consultant

Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan