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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

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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

Carmel Layton

Carmel Layton

House of Travel Nelson

Hi, I’m Carmel Layton. Travel has been a huge part of my life from my first trip overseas as a 6 year old to travelling independently in my twenties and I have travelled to over 72 countries around the world, it has always been a key ingredient in my life.

I am an experienced and passionate travel professional with over 15 years in the industry. From a short South Pacific getaway to a trip around the globe, I look forward to helping you realise your travel dreams.

Carmel
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

Robyn Oretsky

Robyn Oretsky

House of Travel Wellington City

For me, travel has been more than just a series of destinations,  it has been a transformative journey that has sculpted my character and contributed to my personal evolution.  My travel experiences are not merely about ticking off destinations from a bucket list, but about immersing myself in the heart and soul of each place I’ve visited visit.  

My early travels began with frequent road trips around my home country of Canada and the USA, and I am fortunate enough to have now been to six of the seven continents.  Exploring the world through various modes of transportation has been a thrilling adventure for me, from cruise ships, to trains, to rickshaws, and I have an appreciation for the experiences that local transport offers.  I am comfortable with sleeping in a hammock in the rainforest, an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific, and everything in between.  

My experiences have taught me to adapt to different situations and understand diverse perspectives, and my background in customer service and sales has equipped me with valuable skills that I believe make me well-suited for various client needs. I believe this makes me well-suited to meet your needs as a client. Whether it's finding solutions to problems or anticipating your preferences, I strive to provide an exceptional service tailored to you. My aim is to not just meet but exceed your expectations by drawing on my varied background.

My enthusiasm for travel is infectious, and it is my goal to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty of our planet.


Robyn

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Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan