Ring in the New Year in Tokyo
Japan, Asia
One of the best places to celebrate the start of a new year is undoubtedly Tokyo in Japan - you’ll get to take part in festivities for not just one day but for an entire week!
Japan’s new year celebrations start from 29th December and continue until 4th January. To enjoy a cultural experience the best spots to celebrate the new year in Tokyo is at Meiji Shrine or at Zoji-ji Temple where a monk rings the bell 108 times to denote the arrival of new year but if you like crowds and the party vibe, then head to Shibuya Crossing and partake in the countdown party - unquestionably one of the best outdoor New Year parties in the world.
Anna O'Dell-Smith
House of Travel Ferrymead
Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own.
I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again.
Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans.
Anna
Elizabeth Turney
House of Travel Hamilton City
I’m someone who’s always
had a deep passion for travel and a genuine love of connecting people with the
world around them.
I’ve been fortunate to live in several countries and have spent many months
backpacking through South America, Europe and Asia, experiences that have given me a deep
appreciation for different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. For me,
travel is more than just visiting new places, it’s about creating meaningful
connections and helping others experience the transformative power of
discovering the world.
Whether it’s sharing stories, planning journeys, or offering guidance, I’m
passionate about helping others create their own unforgettable travel
experiences.
Liz
Sarah Martelli
House of Travel Rotorua
Lovely to meet you! My love for travel began early—at 19, I
left New Zealand with a one-way ticket to London to start my OE, and I’ve never
looked back. I spent eight years living overseas, including four incredible
years in London, where I explored Europe extensively. (Barcelona still has my
heart!)
I began my travel career in Melbourne in 2004, and I knew I’d found my dream job. Even now, I still smile every day coming to work—I truly LOVE what I do.
Helping clients plan their adventures brings me so much joy.
I specialise in point-to-point Europe itineraries, and I’m especially
passionate about tours and cruising. Whether it’s your first trip or your
tenth, I’m here to make your journey smooth, exciting, and unforgettable from
start to finish.
I’m known for being friendly, bubbly, and a great listener. I’ll take the time to understand your needs and offer thoughtful advice and suggestions to make your trip the best it can be.
Now based on a dairy farm in Reporoa with my husband and our three young children, I understand the #mumlife juggle—and the importance of taking time out for a well-earned holiday! Having travelled to over 40 countries, I can’t wait to share my experience with you.
Sarah
Belinda Fifield
House of Travel Christchurch City
There is a reason why Belinda was crowned the Top Travel Consultant in New Zealand by the Travel Agents Association of NZ... and it is her commitment to her clients. Belinda's friendly approach puts everyone at ease when planning their trip of a lifetime. She loves finding the perfect cruise for her clients and her knowledge of luxury travel throughout the world is second to none.
"Travel has the power to enrich your life and with over 25 years travel industry experience, I will provide you with the confidence and support to make your travel dreams a reality. Whether it be time out to reconnect with your family or an engaging cultural experience, my first-hand knowledge and expertise will help you along your journey."
Away from the office Belinda loves getting outdoors for a long walk with the family dog, before sitting down and enjoying a Chardonnay with a fine meal.
"Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport" - Anonymous
Why I love travel?
I absolutely love the joy and excitement of discovering new countries and cultures that travel brings. The two years of "no travel" during the pandemic has also taught me that revisiting places I've loved in the past gives me just as much joy! Connecting with people and places is very special and I am reminded of this every day in the job I do.
I love to share my travel and industry experience with my clients so that we can build the best of holidays together!
My travel tips:
- Make a bucket list and I can help make those dreams become a reality. Be sure to leave some space for those spur of the moment activities!
- Always get to the airport early. Much better to be checked in early, relaxing and waiting for your flight than stuck at the back of a queue wondering if you will make it.
- Download your travelling airlines app for flight notifications. Also download the House of Travel app before you depart so that you can access your whole travel itinerary and other useful travel information while you are on the go.
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Europe - I never tire of visiting Europe. The people, history, food, wine and culture are extraordinary. The best way to see as much as possible if you are short on time is by cruise. You wake up in a different country every day. What's not to love about that.
- USA - this is a country that needs more than one visit to do it justice. Favourite cities in the states for me are New York, Washington, San Francisco, and Portland (Oregon). Then there are all those incredible national parks.
- Hawaii - deserves a mention of its own. Incredible beaches, a lovely climate year-round, fantastic outdoor activities and fabulous shopping. I recommend taking a short plane ride of one of the many magical islands that make up Hawaii.
- Bali - fantastic for a great value getaway whether it be with a group of friends or someone special. The accommodation options are amazing value.... be sure to ask about our villa options.
- Vietnam - has something for everyone even for first time visitors to Asia. Incredibly moving history, beautiful people, fabulous shopping and food, and wonderful outdoor activities.
What's in my suitcase?
- Kindle
- Little black dress
- Shoes I can walk miles in
Belinda
Best. Holidays. Ever!
Start here
Let us help you find your perfect holiday! Here's how to get in touch...
Want the insider word on all things travel?
Sign up below and be the first to hear about our hottest holiday deals, flight steals, cruise deals and essential travel hints and tips from our team of travel specialists.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!