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Spain & Portugal

A vibrant tapestry of sun, flavour, and historic splendor


Hola! And Ola!

These two euro neighbours will captivate your heart with the romance of the Spanish and Portuguese languages, the friendly, passionate people, the Mediterranean climate, culinary delights, unique history, architecture and landscapes. Stay in a Paradore in Spain and explore the Mediterranean coastline, then head over the Spanish plains to the mountain chains. Discover wonderful Moorish palaces, castles, heritage sites, Roman ruins and national parks. Join one of their many crazy festivals and learn the flamenco. From Spain, travel through Portugal’s charming medieval towns, past too many castles to count, devouring port wine and Pastel de natas on the way to the Atlantic Ocean. Take your pick of sandy beaches, where the sun shines 300 days a year as you wind on down to the exquisite Algarve.

Planning a Spain & Portugal holiday? Connect with one of our Spain & Portugal travel specialists to create your dream holiday today!

DID YOU KNOW?

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Flight time.

Traveling from Auckland to Spain or Portugal takes around 24 hours, typically with a stopover. The journey is long, but the vibrant cultures and stunning landscapes make it worth the effort.

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Best time to go.

The best times to visit Spain and Portugal are during the spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October). These seasons provide mild weather, perfect for exploring the cities and countryside.

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Time difference.

Spain and Portugal are 10 hours behind New Zealand, so plan for a noticeable time difference.

Our favourite things to do in Spain & Portugal

Barcelona city view

Step into Gaudi’s world in Barcelona

Wander through the narrow lanes of the Gothic Quarter early morning before the crowds.

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Paella

Paella cooking class

Return from Spain with the know-how to whip up a mean Paella.

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Tapas like a local

We recommend doing a tapas/pintxos tour as soon as you get to Spain, this will teach you how to eat tapas like a local.

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Douro River Portugal

Sail through Portugal’s hidden gem

For a distinctly unique experience cruise the Douro Valley in Portugal.

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Pena Palace

Take a day trip from Lisbon

Visit the whimsical Pena Palace in Sintra ,Portugal.

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Flamenco dancer

Flamenco in Spain or Fado in Portugal

Experience local music and dance!

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Walk the Camino

A bucket-list adventure!

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Castle in Spain

Stay in Castles and Palaces

Imagine sleeping in a palace, castle, or a historical monument – that’s what staying at a Parador in Spain or a Pousada in Portugal feels like!

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Your Europe adventure starts here - Download our Europe Brochure

Packed with expert tips, insider info and bucket-list inspiration for your next unforgettable Europe getaway

Meet our Spain & Portugal specialists

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Chloe McKellar

Chloe McKellar

House of Travel Wellington City

Hi all - please note that I am on maternity leave until September 2026  :)

Customer service has always been drilled into me. After begging my way into a cafe job at 14, I then spent 12 years working in the hospitality industry supervising restaurants and managing specialty cafes which also founded my love for all different types of foods.

After spending 3 years in Melbourne, 6 months in South East Asia and a few years in the UK I finally made the switch to the travel industry where I have been able to share my love for travel and customer service ever since.

I made it through the dark years of COVID in the industry which has led me to know to dig that little bit deeper into my clients' travel plans to create that perfect trip, and ensure we really have the best option for you in terms of comfort, reliability, and service. As we just don't know what is round the corner, do we!

I've travelled extensively across Southeast Asia, UK and Europe, spent a lot of time exploring properties in Fiji (and relaxing by the beach), road tripped in California and in 2024 I visited South Africa in Feb, Japan, South Korea and Taipei! I've got many more places on my bucket list to visit, but if I haven't been, I've got a superb team of people behind me who have and we'll work out the best trip for you! My ultimate passion when I travel is trying local foods, and finding the best possible places to have that authentic experience that we wouldn't be able to have at home. So if that resonates with you, I'd love to hear from you and let's put together your foodie adventure, together :)

Chloe

Laura Simpson

Laura Simpson

House of Travel Taupo

When I first started in the travel industry, I didn’t even have a passport! Fast forward a few months, and that had all changed – I hit the ground running on my first overseas adventure, and I haven’t stopped since. Whether it’s getting immersed in the local culture, or ticking off bucket list moments, travel has a unique magic that stays with you forever. 

I love using my own travel experience to bring that personal, unique touch to your dream holiday, making a seamless experience from the planning stages right through to your return home. From navigating the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong to exploring the USA on a road trip, there’s a world out there just waiting to be discovered. 

Let’s have a chat, and make your travel dreams a reality!


Laura

Danny Hooper

Danny Hooper

House of Travel Johnsonville

I have been in the travel Industry for 20 years and am convinced that it is the most exciting industry to be a part of.

I still get excited about all things travel and love exploring new and exciting destinations or passing on the knowledge and ideas to customers to ensure they have the most amazing experience on holiday. 

Danny

Rebecca Moss

Rebecca Moss

House of Travel Whangarei

I am delighted to share the exciting news of my return to House of Travel after a brief break from the travel industry. I am thrilled to continue my travel career, which spans over 17 years. It all began when I entered the industry as a travel consultant and eventually progressed to assistant office manager. I developed a strong fascination with the wholesale operation, which inspired me to delve deeper into that specific aspect of the business. 

This experience further ignited my desire to embark on my second Overseas Experience (O.E.) As a result, I left New Zealand and had the opportunity to work as a travel agent in both Australia and Ireland. Upon my return to New Zealand, I seized a valuable position as a sales representative for Malaysian Airlines before finally joining House of Travel at the beginning of 2017.

During my travels, I have been fortunate to explore 18 countries, and among them, Hawaii holds a special place as one of my favorite destinations. Exploring the Waikele premium outlets, basking in the sun on beautiful beaches, snorkelling with turtles along the Maui coastline, and embarking on the exhilarating Haleakala Zipline adventure—this destination offers the perfect all-in-one holiday experience for me.

Cruising, indulging in luxury travel, and enjoying beach breaks are my passions, although I am not averse to a touch of adventure. Witnessing the awe-inspiring Chichen Itza Mayan ruins in Mexico and conquering the ascent of Mount Kinabalu in Sabah were both remarkable personal achievements.

One of the most fulfilling aspects of my profession is assisting clients in creating their ideal travel experiences. I take great pleasure in hearing about their favorite moments and highlights upon their return.

Rebecca

Customer holidays snaps

Best. Spain & Portugal Holidays. Ever!

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