“You have to try the Starbucks sakura-themed drinks - they are an acquired taste but has to be done!”
Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan
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!
Lesley Masters
House of Travel Lower Hutt
Lesley
Suzanne Andrews
House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square
I've travelled extensively all over the world and I now want to make your travel dreams come true!
I've worked in the travel industry for many years and I now want to share my experience and passion for travelling with you.
Suzanne
Antony Boomer
House of Travel Dunedin
I've been immersed in the world of travel since 1987- first as a tour leader, then as a travel advisor, and now as Owner Operator of House of Travel Dunedin City, travel has never just been a profession for me: it's been a lifelong pursuit of discovery.
Over the years, I've explored more than 105 countries, experiencing travel in its rawest and most authentic forms- from double-decker buses through Europe and rickshaws in Asia, to horseback journeys in the Middle East and dugout canoes deep in Central Africa. Along the way there have been camels, elephants, donkeys and bicycles- each journey adding to a deep understanding of what true adventure feels like.
Today, while the sense of adventure remains as strong as ever, I pair it with a passion for refined, seamless travel. Recent journeys have taken me to destinations such as Myanmar, India, Vietnam, Japan, Türkiye, Zimbabwe, Peru, Argentina and Antarctica- experiencing them through a lens of greater comfort, exclusive access, and considered detail.
Many of my clients share this same evolution- still driven by curiosity and a desire to explore the extraordinary, but with an appreciation for quality, ease, and exceptional experiences. With my breadth of knowledge across both adventurous or luxury travel, I specialise in designing journeys that combine the thrill of discovery with the comfort and sophistication you deserve.
Whether it's a remote expedition, a tailor-made cultural journey, or a high-end escape with unique touches, I take pride in crafting travel experiences that are seamless, distinctive, and unforgettable.
I look forward to helping you discover the world- your way.
Tony Boomer
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
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