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!
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Hannah Brown
House of Travel Wanaka
Always with a smile I will be just as excited and passionate about your future adventures as you are! Originally from the UK I've spent the last 10 years travelling around the globe before finally settling in heavenly New Zealand.
Here I've turned the joy of travel into a profession I love. I enjoy nature, the beach, spending time with loved ones and exploring new places especially on the open road or by cruise.
I believe the biggest adventure you can take is to live the life of your dreams!
To me, traveling is so much more than a simple trip or relaxing vacation; it is a journey that always leaves me transformed and forever changed by the experiences presented. I have had the pleasure of visiting too many countries to count from backpacking on a shoestring budget around Asia to going all out on a private luxury adventure filled holidays such as trekking Machu Pichu!
My firsthand recommendations will ensure that your destination choices, no matter how uncommon, are always extraordinary. No matter what you are looking for, whether it’s a bucket list adventure or something that completely takes you off the grid, you can count on me to open doors to the most exceptional experiences and enhance every travel adventure.
Hannah
Bridget Hanrahan
House of Travel Prestons
Bridget has an amazing collection of knowledge from 19 years creating wonderful itineraries for all her clients. She takes the role of research very seriously from finding the finest cocktail to ensuring everyone has the best activity tips!
Her knowledge in cruising, as well as other adventure and family travel combined with her easy approachable manner takes the pain out of planning your trip of a lifetime.
"Designing unique travel experiences is my passion. My attention to detail and always looking for exclusive options ensures that all client's experiences are seamless right from the initial enquiry".
When Bridget is not pouring over brochures for inspiration, you can find her having a game of tennis, finding the next best HOT Chocolate, or spending time with her family.
"Travel is the healthiest addiction" - Anonymous
Why I love travel:
For me life is about experiences, not things! I love exploring new places, cultures, environments. I see travel for me as an addiction - I just can't stay away and helping people is so rewarding.
My travel tips:
- Travel as soon as you can, don't delay as life is too short.
- If you want an adventure head to Antarctica or the Arctic before anywhere else.
- Always carry a change of clothes, any valuables and medication in your carry-on luggage. The House of Travel online brochures are a great source of information when planning your journey then we can finetune your holiday for you.
My top 5 destinations:
- Africa- Serengeti plains!!! Perfect place to go to create family memories with our young adult kids! Adventure to encounter wildlife and camping in the Serengeti!
- Dubai- the mix of culture, sights, architecture, markets, desert and the malls - even though shopping is not my thing.
- Denali National Park and Preserve in Alaska - I was incredibly fortunate to have a family holiday in Canada, Alaska, Las Vegas and California and I'll never forget rafting on the Nenana River, rounding a bend to see a moose and her two calves taking a drink …. we all forgot to keep paddling; it was an incredible sight!
- Rome - the history and the chaos of a bustling city it offers so much culture with a cool vibe.
- Thailand - I lived near Chiang Mai as an exchange student many years ago and have been back to the country three times. It is great for families, couples, singles with so much to see and do.
What's in my suitcase?
- Happiness - I'm always in my happy place as soon as I travel.
- Active wear - Our holidays always include adventure and plenty of travel.
- A copy of my passport and insurance policy number and phone number, in case I lose my carryon bag and phone.
Bridget
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
Lisa Grunsell
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
With over 30 years in the travel industry, I still get that same excitement when creating holidays for my clients.
Lisa
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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