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Italy

La Dolce Vita, living the sweet life!

Venice

A land of timeless art, culinary delights, and scenic beauty

Ciao! Passion seeps into all aspects of life here – you can hear it in the opera, taste it in lovingly prepared pasta, and see it in action as the Italians promenade across their piazzas, talking loudly and proudly with their hands. In Rome and Milan, life zooms by on Vespas, while Venice and Florence dazzle with their unique charms. In the countryside, things slow down - ideal for savoring wine, long lunches, and sunflower fields. Enjoy Tuscany’s scenic hills, historic Pompeii, and pastel coastal villages. On the coast, villages washed in pastel colours cling to cliffs; and in the Italian Alps, elegant villas overlook tranquil lakes. No wonder Italy was home to so many inspired painters and composers.

Chat to our Italy travel specialists and let’s start planning your belissimo holiday today!

DID YOU KNOW?

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Flight time.

Flying from Auckland to Italy usually takes around 24 hours, including a stopover. The journey is long, but the art, culture, and cuisine of Italy await you.

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Best time to go.

The best times to visit Italy are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons offer mild weather, fewer tourists, and the chance to see Italy at its most beautiful.

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Time difference.

Italy is 10 hours behind New Zealand, so you’ll experience a substantial time difference upon arrival.

Our favourite things to do in Italy

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Vespa

See Rome or Tuscany on a vespa

Want to explore Rome like a local?

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Ravioli Pasta

Learn to cook (and eat) like an Italian!

Go for an Italian Cooking class when in Italy!

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Pizza

Attend pizzafest in Naples

If you're borderline addicted to pizza, you're not alone.

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Vatican

Start your day with breakfast at the Vatican

Treat yourself to a VIP experience in Rome!

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Markets

Head to the markets

Experience Rome's oldest market at the Campo dei Fiori, which serves up fresh seafood, vegetables, fruit, spices and homewares daily from Monday to Saturday.

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Tuscany

Live like a local and hire a villa in Tuscany

One of the best experiences in Tuscany is to stay in a villa.

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View of Cinque Terre

Try the best basil pesto

Explore the stunning villages of Cinque Terre and taste the best basil pesto!

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Burano

Visit the outer Venetian islands

No trip to Venice is complete without a visit to its prized islands—Murano and Burano.

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Amalfi Coast

Hiking the Amalfi Coast

For something active and different - go for this popular hike on the Amalfi Coast!

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Meet our Italy specialists

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Suzanne Andrews

Suzanne Andrews

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square


I've travelled extensively all over the world and I now want to make your travel dreams come true!

I've worked in the travel industry for many years and I now want to share my experience and passion for travelling with you.

Suzanne

Belinda Fifield

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. 

Years in the industry: 28
No. of countries visited: 28 
Favourite place to visit: Europe
Next place on the list to visit: Bali 

"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

Jason McKay

Jason McKay

House of Travel Nelson

As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.

I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!

Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must! 

Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.

Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.


Jason

Alicia Sutton

Alicia Sutton

House of Travel Hamilton City

As an experienced travel consultant with over 9 years in the industry, I bring a wealth of expertise and a genuine passion for exploring the world. My career has been shaped by a commitment to helping others create unforgettable journeys, fueled by my own love for adventure.

In early 2024, I achieved a lifelong dream by traveling to Antarctica—a testament to my adventurous spirit and firsthand knowledge of unique, bucket-list destinations. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat, a cultural immersion, or an epic expedition, my global insights and personalised approach ensure every journey is as inspiring as it is seamless.

Our lives are defined by experience, when we travel we open up an array of new experiences to be had. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to assist others with their own leisure holidays or bucket list adventures.

Alicia

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