Dreaming of a white Christmas ... in Santa's Lapland

Hi, I'm Katy Devia.  My love affair with travel started young, but it truly came alive during 3.5 years of living out of a backpack across Canada, the US, Europe, and the UK. I spent my winters chasing snow—working two snowboard seasons in Whistler, Canada, and two in the French Alps. My summers were just as unforgettable, backpacking through Europe, working on luxury power boats in the South of France, and even selling surf and snowboard gear in the UK. Those years taught me resilience, flexibility, and the pure magic of stepping into the unknown. I then headed back to the United States, where I lived and worked in Berkeley, California, for a year.

Later, love took me further south. Marrying a South American man opened my eyes to the vibrant, untamed beauty of Colombia. Over the years, I've soaked up the sun in the Pacific Islands, explored the streets of Hong Kong and Singapore, visited Bali, and even adventured deep into a gold mine in Borneo.

So, why did I become a travel agent? Honestly? Because I can't stop talking about it. After 15 years away from the industry raising my kids here in Nelson, I realised that my greatest joy is still helping others find that same spark I felt on my very first big adventure. I became a consultant not just to book trips, but to help people discover their perfect version of travel, whether that's heart-pumping adventure or total relaxation. My 'why' is simple: I want your memories to be as vivid as mine.

Katy

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

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.

Jason

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