“With everyone standing in silent awe after a 4am wake up call, nothing takes your breath away quite as much as seeing the sunrise over ancient ruins. I still get goosebumps when I think back to this life changing experience.”
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Walk the Inca Trail and see the sun rise over Machu Picchu
Machu Piccu
“The Inca Trail follows ancient paths high into the Andes. The 4-day, 3-night hike is about 40 kilometres, much of it steep. But anyone who’s done it will tell you the views are worth every step: Incan ruins, cloud forest and majestic valleys are laid out like breadcrumbs en route to Machu Picchu.
Local law requires trekkers have a permit and guide, so talk to us about our favourite tours, which sell out up to a year in advance. If you’re keen for the sights but not the trek, take a scenic train ride from nearby Ollantaytambo.
You’ll also love Cusco, the beautiful colonial city where your experience begins. It’s worth staying a few days to acclimatise to the altitude before your trek — or just to try Chica, a traditional Andean tipple made from yellow maize!”
Leonie Paul
House of Travel Merivale
With nearly two decades at House of Travel, I’m always dreaming of the next adventure. The more I explore, the longer my bucket list grows! The thrill of planning a new journey and learning from each experience excites me.
Discussing travel daily is my passion, I love helping clients realize their travel dreams and living vicariously through their experiences.
Getting to know my clients and understanding what matters most to them is something I truly enjoy. This insight allows me to craft itineraries that are as unique and special as the travelers themselves.
There's nothing more satisfying than a client returning with tales of their adventures. I love hearing their stories, as each journey is different—there's no one-size-fits-all approach to travel.
For me, travel offers the opportunity to learn more about the world around us. With every journey, I find new perspectives, cultures, and places to love.
Travel isn’t just about the places we visit—it's about the growth we experience along the way.
Leonie
Belinda Fifield
House of Travel Christchurch City
There is a reason why Belinda was crowned the Top Travel Consultant in New Zealand by the Travel Agents Association of NZ... and it is her commitment to her clients. Belinda's friendly approach puts everyone at ease when planning their trip of a lifetime. She loves finding the perfect cruise for her clients and her knowledge of luxury travel throughout the world is second to none.
"Travel has the power to enrich your life and with over 25 years travel industry experience, I will provide you with the confidence and support to make your travel dreams a reality. Whether it be time out to reconnect with your family or an engaging cultural experience, my first-hand knowledge and expertise will help you along your journey."
Away from the office Belinda loves getting outdoors for a long walk with the family dog, before sitting down and enjoying a Chardonnay with a fine meal.
Years in the industry: 28
No. of countries visited: 28
Favourite place to visit: Europe
Next place on the list to visit: Bali
"Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport" - Anonymous
Why I love travel?
I absolutely love the joy and excitement of discovering new countries and cultures that travel brings. The two years of "no travel" during the pandemic has also taught me that revisiting places I've loved in the past gives me just as much joy! Connecting with people and places is very special and I am reminded of this every day in the job I do.
I love to share my travel and industry experience with my clients so that we can build the best of holidays together!
My travel tips:
- Make a bucket list and I can help make those dreams become a reality. Be sure to leave some space for those spur of the moment activities!
- Always get to the airport early. Much better to be checked in early, relaxing and waiting for your flight than stuck at the back of a queue wondering if you will make it.
- Download your travelling airlines app for flight notifications. Also download the House of Travel app before you depart so that you can access your whole travel itinerary and other useful travel information while you are on the go.
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Europe - I never tire of visiting Europe. The people, history, food, wine and culture are extraordinary. The best way to see as much as possible if you are short on time is by cruise. You wake up in a different country every day. What's not to love about that.
- USA - this is a country that needs more than one visit to do it justice. Favourite cities in the states for me are New York, Washington, San Francisco, and Portland (Oregon). Then there are all those incredible national parks.
- Hawaii - deserves a mention of its own. Incredible beaches, a lovely climate year-round, fantastic outdoor activities and fabulous shopping. I recommend taking a short plane ride of one of the many magical islands that make up Hawaii.
- Bali - fantastic for a great value getaway whether it be with a group of friends or someone special. The accommodation options are amazing value.... be sure to ask about our villa options.
- Vietnam - has something for everyone even for first time visitors to Asia. Incredibly moving history, beautiful people, fabulous shopping and food, and wonderful outdoor activities.
What's in my suitcase?
- Kindle
- Little black dress
- Shoes I can walk miles in
Belinda
Jason McKay
House of Travel Nelson
As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.
I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!
Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must!
Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips
in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich
history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.
Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.
Leanne Newton
House of Travel Upper Riccarton
Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel.
It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people.
It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.
Leanne
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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