Hibernate in a cave in Puglia
Italy, Europe
If you’re looking for an experience that is as unique as it is authentic, then staying in the ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs in Italy’s magical city of Matera is for you!
Not the type of cave you might find Bear Grylls bunkering down for the night, but a plush cave hotel in one of Europe’s most unusual landscapes. The Italian city of Matera is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings. These intriguing stone residences are cut into rock faces within a labyrinth of narrow streets and tumbling lodgings chipped into the cliffside.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, between the stone churches and ancient alleyways, the caves have been carefully restored in full respect of the local cultural heritage. Fear not, with king size beds and ensuite bathrooms, these hotel caves offer every comfort!
Explore our Italy holidays 6
Explore our Italy tours 27
Explore our Italy cruise 17
Ella Cotterall
House of Travel Takapuna
I believe that planning travel isn’t just about booking flights and hotels - it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime.
I’m not just here to book your flights and hotels - I’m here to turn your
travel dreams into something real, seamless, and extraordinary. I’ll take the
time to understand you – see what excites you, what comforts you, and what you
want out of every journey. My goal is to create experiences that feel perfectly
tailored to what you are after, never generic.
Having explored some of the world’s most incredible destinations, I love using
my firsthand experience to create holidays that truly suit you. Whether it’s
ticking off iconic landmarks, venturing off the beaten track, relaxing on a
luxury escape, setting sail on a river or ocean cruise, or planning the perfect
trip for couples, families, solo travellers or groups - I’m here to help bring
your next adventure to life.
Ella
Penni McDonald
House of Travel Auckland City
As the stores resident cruise specialist without a doubt my favorite way to travel is by ship.
11 cruises so far & inspections of a further 20+ ships.
River cruises on the Nile, Danube & Rhone.
Ocean cruises in the South Pacific, Caribbean & NZ.
Penni
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
Antony Boomer
House of Travel Dunedin
I have been in the travel industry since 1987 as a tour leader, travel advisor, traveler visiting the globe, and now Owner Operator of House of Travel Dunedin City.
My travels have encompassed 105 countries initially using all forms of transport from a double decker bus around Europe to rickshaws in Asia to horses in the Middle East and dugout canoes in Central Africa with camels, elephants, donkeys and bicycles in-between.
I am more than willing to travel in a lot more comfort these days visiting the Pacific, Myanmar, India, Vietnam, Ireland, China, Cambodia, Hong Kong, Thailand, Japan, USA, Cayman Islands, Zimbabwe, Turkiye and Malta in recent years.
I believe the transition is similar for people of my generation who still yearn to visit anywhere and everywhere but enjoy a bit, or a lot, more luxury. As such I have developed an in-depth knowledge of the whole spectrum of travel options and regularly come up with solutions to the most complex of travel plans.
Tony
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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