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Ring in the New Year in Tokyo

Japan, Asia

Tokyo New Years Eve Fireworks

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.

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Nicky Aitken

Nicky Aitken

House of Travel Papamoa

I have had a lifelong love affair for exploring the world. Raised in a family that prioritised travel, I inherited a passion for all things travel. I have lived in different countries (London, USA, Argentina) and I am fascinated with the rich tapestry of culture, people, religion and food in new places. 

My love for travel has taken me to some of the world’s most amazing places!

From Mauritius to Bahamas and all in between, I have been privileged to experience the world and being able to speak and understand 5 languages English, Afrikaans, Dutch, German and Greek) certainly comes in helpful.

I have grown up in South Africa, spending most of my adult life there, being able to show my clients what makes this region so unique is a privilege. Africa was my backyard after all and even after living in NZ for almost 12 years, my heart still beats to the African Drum.

For me, choosing a favourite destination is impossible. But .. Bali has literally captivated my heart, and even though I have been there 20+ times, I still always find new things to uncover. As does the Maldives, Mauritius and Seychelles, these islands just have the “it” factor

I also love ocean cruising, especially Mediterranean and the Caribbean. Cruising offers such a great variety and a chance to see multiple destinations and experiencing iconic landmarks and locations from your hotel on the sea. 

I WOULD SAY MY PASSION IS MAKING MY CLIENTS DREAM HOLIDAYS COME TRUE AND I PRIDE MYSELF ON MY EFFICIENT SERVICE AT ALL TIMES.

Nicky
Leanne Newton

Leanne Newton

House of Travel Upper Riccarton

Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel. 

It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people. 

It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.


Leanne
Tracey Edgecombe

Tracey Edgecombe

House of Travel New Plymouth


I liken planning a holiday to baking a cake. It takes several well measured and thought out ingredients for a great result.

I have been lucky to have travelled extensively myself and being a travel consultant for more than 20 years, I use these 'ingredients' - experience and expertise - to draw on to help create amazing holidays and lifelong memories.

It is such a pleasure to help my clients get the best out of their holidays and manage an incredible team of travel professionals.

Tracey

Chris Fifield

Chris Fifield

House of Travel Christchurch City

Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!

Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey. 

"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday." 

Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few. 

Years in the industry: 37 
No. of countries visited: 40+ 
Favourite place to visit: Western Canada
Next place on the list to visit: Bali

Work, save, travel, repeat. 


Why I love travel: 

There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.


My travel tips:

  • If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come. 
  • Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice! 
  • Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll. 
  • Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us. 
  • Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
  • Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history. 
  • Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
  • Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!

What's in my suitcase:

  • Too much - I must do better!
  • One universal adaptor and a 4 plug New Zealand multi box


Chris


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Ring in the New Year in Tokyo