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Buckle up for a Southern USA Musical Roadie!

USA

When you think of the all-American road trip, ‘getting your kicks on Route 66’, instantly springs to mind. But set off on an adventure of the toetapping kind, enjoy a musical pilgrimage to the heart of jazz, blues and rock ‘n’ roll.

Your epic road trip starts in New Orleans, where even the street performers possess more talent than your average mainstream musician. But then, this is the Deep South and you’re in the realm of the legendary greats. Explore the birthplace of jazz, then head to Memphis and visit Graceland, Elvis Presley’s former home and Sun Studio, where he recorded his first record.

For modern vibes, Beale Street remains the premiere hangout for musical prodigies. And in Nashville you’ll find plenty of country music for a last hurrah, before heading home.

Connect with a USA specialist

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Chloe McKellar

Chloe McKellar

House of Travel Wellington City

Hi all - please note that I am on maternity leave until September 2026  :)

Customer service has always been drilled into me. After begging my way into a cafe job at 14, I then spent 12 years working in the hospitality industry supervising restaurants and managing specialty cafes which also founded my love for all different types of foods.

After spending 3 years in Melbourne, 6 months in South East Asia and a few years in the UK I finally made the switch to the travel industry where I have been able to share my love for travel and customer service ever since.

I made it through the dark years of COVID in the industry which has led me to know to dig that little bit deeper into my clients' travel plans to create that perfect trip, and ensure we really have the best option for you in terms of comfort, reliability, and service. As we just don't know what is round the corner, do we!

I've travelled extensively across Southeast Asia, UK and Europe, spent a lot of time exploring properties in Fiji (and relaxing by the beach), road tripped in California and in 2024 I visited South Africa in Feb, Japan, South Korea and Taipei! I've got many more places on my bucket list to visit, but if I haven't been, I've got a superb team of people behind me who have and we'll work out the best trip for you! My ultimate passion when I travel is trying local foods, and finding the best possible places to have that authentic experience that we wouldn't be able to have at home. So if that resonates with you, I'd love to hear from you and let's put together your foodie adventure, together :)

Chloe

Melissa Duder

Melissa Duder

House of Travel Taupo

My travel journey began with a solo adventure to New York at 21-and I've been hooked ever since! Fast forward a few years and I've had the absolute joy of exploring over 20 countries.

From wandering through ancient cities to tasting street food in hidden alleyways, I thrive on discovering new places, flavours, and cultures. 

I found my way into the travel industry while searching for a career that truly lit me up-and I've never looked back. 

Today, I get to turn wanderlust into reality by crafting unforgettable holidays for our local community and curious travellers from all over the world.

Planning a trip should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I'm here to take the stress out of travel and help you design a getaway that's as unique and joyful as you are. 

Got ideas? Let's dream big and make it happen-together!


Melissa


Maree Thompson

Maree Thompson

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!

I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!! 

I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!

I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm. 

I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled. 

I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general. 

I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.

My Travel Tips

  • I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad. 
  • Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!
  • Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.
  • Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel. 

The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.


Maree


Brent Haines

Brent Haines

House of Travel Palmerston North: Broadway


Are you looking for a life changing experience?

Looking to spend some time with your loved ones?

Want to see or do something amazing that you will never forget?

Whatever your travel dreams are and I am the man with experience to help you discover these.

Brent

Best. Holidays. Ever!

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Buckle up for a Southern USA Musical Roadie!