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Middle East

Ancient wonders, modern marvels, endless adventures


Discover the magic of the Middle East

Picture yourself wandering the vibrant souks of Marrakech, soaking in the futuristic skyline of dazzling Dubai, or stepping into history among the majestic temples of Petra. The Middle East offers a kaleidoscope of unforgettable experiences, blending rich heritage with contemporary charm at every turn.

From spectacular ancient ruins to ultra-modern cities, desert landscapes to luxurious retreats, this region effortlessly blends tradition with innovation. Whether you're craving culture, relaxation, adventure, or flavours you'll never forget, the Middle East promises pinch-me moments around every corner.

Talk to our Middle East travel specialists and let us craft your perfect dream holiday through this region, today!

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Flight time.

Flying from Auckland to major Middle Eastern destinations is possible with a direct flight to Doha and Dubai with flight times of 17 to 18 hours.

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Best time to go.

For UAE, November to March where temperatures are more pleasant for outdoor activities. For Egypt, October to April, with cooler temperatures making it easier to explore historical sites.

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Time difference.

Middle East spans several time zones, but most countries are around 9 to 10 hours behind New Zealand Standard Time (NZST, GMT +12).

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Friendly, she welcomed me, remembered I'd booked with her before and asked if I'd had good time. Efficient, I received bookings and information within 24hours."

Helen

"Within a few minutes she came up with two alternative flight plans and adjusted it nicely to our requirements. We had a good booking in no time. She then took us through meal selection and luggage requirements. We had the whole itinerary sorted within 30 minutes."

Phil & Anthea

"Very fast responses, offered options we hadn’t thought about."

Nancy

Our Middle East specialists

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Loris Sowman

Loris Sowman

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I recently joined the team at House of Travel Mt Maunganui after relocating from Hamilton, where I’d previously worked with Calder & Lawson House of Travel.

After many years in the travel industry, what makes this job special to me, is having my clients return from their trips to tell me about their adventures and then wanting to rebook another holiday with me - they do say the best way to overcome the post-travel blues is to already be planning your next one, and I couldn’t agree more!

I would love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.

Loris
Bridget Hanrahan

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. 

Years in the industry: 19+ 
No. of countries visited: 25 
Favourite place to visit: Africa

"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



Cherone Wilson

Cherone Wilson

House of Travel Howick

Travel has been a constant in my life since my OE started with a classic Contiki trip through Europe, followed by working in London and traveling through the UK, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel. I also spent a year working in Iceland—a now trendy travel hotspot—before returning to New Zealand.

In 2000, my family moved to the middle east living in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, which provided an exciting base for exploring nearby destinations. We had unforgettable holidays in Austria, France, the UK, Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.

Returning to New Zealand marked a new chapter of travel, this time without children. Recent adventures have included Vietnam, India, China, Peru, and Cambodia.

My travel career started with Singapore Airlines and since 2019 I’ve been consulting at House of Travel in Howick.  I love talking and connecting with clients, listening to their travel dreams and turning them into memorable experiences.  

Whether you're looking for an island getaway, relaxing cruise or an exciting adventure, I’m here to help you plan the perfect trip.

Travel is an adventure that brings the world to life. 

Cherone

Stacey Mullinger

Stacey Mullinger

House of Travel Northlink (formerly Northlands)

With over 30 years of experience in the travel industry, I’ve built a career focused on creating exceptional holidays through expert planning, attention to detail, and in-depth destination knowledge.

Stacey

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