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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!”

“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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Hayley Mundy

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

After more than 30 years selling travel, it still gives me such a buzz to create fabulous holidays. I love watching my clients' anticipation build, being part of the planning, sharing in the excitement of their journey - and of course hearing all about it when they return. It's almost as good as being on the trip with them!

Travel has changed a lot in recent years, and that's exactly why it pays to have an expert in your corner. As a senior, award-winning travel consultant at one of New Zealand's best-rated travel agencies, House of Travel The Crossing, I'm here to take the stress out, and the fun in!!

From complex airfares and cruise itineraries to boutique stays, family getaways and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, I'll help you navigate this new era of travel with confidence - keeping an eye on the details, the fine print, and the "what ifs", so you can focus on the excitement.

Let's create a holiday to remember - fabulous, seamless, and perfectly you.

Hayley

Jan Arthurs

House of Travel Kapiti Coast

Having worked in the industry for over 30 years I still thrive on the excitement that builds as I help plan travel adventures both for my clients and of course myself.

Hearing the anecdotes and stories on your return home continues to feed my wanderlust passion. I love the challenge of a tricky flight itinerary, and travel destinations of the beaten track.

My passion for exploration and dedication to service will ensure you experience your dream holiday.

Jan

Kirsty Stalker

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 12 years in the industry I have always had travel and tourism in my blood, including working as cabin crew for nearly 8 years. I was so lucky to visit so many great destinations while working and on personal trips.

When I'm not working you will find me at home cooking and spending quality time with my young family and friends.

Kirsty

Chris Fifield

House of Travel Christchurch City

Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!

Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey.

"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday."

Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few.

Years in the industry: 37

No. of countries visited: 40+
Favourite place to visit: Western Canada
Next place on the list to visit: Bali

Work, save, travel, repeat.

Why I love travel:

There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.

My travel tips:

If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come.
Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice!
Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll.
Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so.

My top 5 favourite destinations:

Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us.
Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history.
Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!

What's in my suitcase: