“A walking tour is the best way to see all the sights and the hidden gems from the locals! ”
Visit the Mona Lisa & stroll the Champ Elysees
France
France is just one of those destinations you must visit at least once in your lifetime! Le Louvre housing Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous art piece Mona Lisa, the prestigious Champs Elysee, the world-famous Eiffel Tower and the River Seine are land marks Paris is known the world over.
Sip a café au lait in a chic Parisian café (our favourite Café de Flore in Saint-Germain), enjoy the flaky butteriness of a freshly baked croissant from a patisserie (the eclairs from L’Eclair de Genie are devine!), browse famous works of art in Le Louvre (take a stroll through the iconic park Les Tuileries in front of Le Lourvre), climb the Arc de Triomphe or Eiffel Tower for views across the city, explore boutiques in the cobbled streets or prestigious Belle-Epoque department stores such as Galeries Lafayette along the Champs-Élysées.
Paris is always a good idea!
Our hottest picks 1
Explore all France Holidays & Deals 3
Explore our France Tours 7
Megan McKay
House of Travel Hornby
I have a passion for all things travel and cannot wait to help ensure you have the best experience possible!
Megan
Jessica Osbourn
House of Travel Papamoa
I have always been a lover of travel, family holidays as a child sparked my love of seeing the world. I was born in England, moving to New Zealand with my family at the age of six. Drawn to the outdoors and the natural beauty of the world, I enjoy nothing more than exploring new landscapes, immersing myself in local living or being a major tourist. Whether that’s wondering narrow streets, exploring a big city or lounging on a sun-soaked beach.
In addition to my knowledge of travel, I'm currently training to become a Contiki champ with a passion for adventure and a love of meeting new people, I am eager to help you plan your own exciting Contiki, Top Deck, G-adventures or Intrepid tour and create unforgettable memories.
I was fortunate enough to be sent to Disneyland California and loved every aspect of its adrenaline packed adventure. It is an unforgettable trip and I cant wait to help others book their magical Disney holidays.
With a passion for adventure and a keen eye for detail, I’m always on the lookout for hidden gems, unique experiences and trending destinations. Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful escape into nature, I have the drive to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.
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!"
"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
Jo McLaughlin
House of Travel Papamoa
Hi, I’m Jo and I joined the House of Travel Papamoa team in April 2022 not long after the borders opened and it’s fair to say it’s been crazy busy ever since! No two days are the same and I thrive working in a fast-paced environment. I have been working in Travel for around 10 years and started in January 2009 at Flight Centre Mt Maunganui and then moved to Auckland in 2011 to step into a management role to open their new retail store in Royal Oak. I then moved back to the Tauranga area in early 2013 and opened the Flight Centre in Bayfair. Opening two of Flight Centre’s stores gave me an incredible learning experience and insight into building a business and taking it to incredible heights! I was also in charge of training multiple new to the industry staff members. Before Travel I worked in banking for 4 and half years both in the retail branch and the business banking team.
I have great attention to detail, excellent communication skills and am down to earth, friendly and approachable. I love meeting new people and building relationships with my clients. I love putting together itineraries and working closely with you to find your perfect fit.
I'm passionate about travel to Canada and the UK. As I lived in Vancouver for 6 months and London for nearly 3 years on Working Holidays. I’ve also spent 3 weeks in Egypt and over 6 weeks in South America. I’ve travelled on my own to Asia and then jumped on an Intrepid Cambodia tour. I have also done a 28 day Topdeck Camping trip around Europe and travelled independently using Eurail passes and the Eurostar. Along with many other exciting adventures!
My partner Duncan and I
have two children, a son 10 and daughter 9. We have been on family
holidays to Bali and Fiji, staying at Plantation Island and the Naviti on the
Coral Coast. Duncan and I also experienced a Viking ocean cruise (adults only)
and absolutely loved it! I have just returned from visiting Darwin, Litchfield
and Kakadu National Parks in the Northern Territory, taking the Ghan from
Darwin to Adelaide. I was very fortunate to take a scenic flight over
Uluru and Kata Tjuta – just breathtaking!
We live locally in the Papamoa Hills and own a lifestyle block. We love the outdoors and taking advantage of the many wonderful things on offer here in the Tauranga area.
I’d love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.
Best. Holidays. Ever!
Start here
Let us help you find your perfect holiday! Here's how to get in touch...
Explore our France Cruise 22
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.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!
