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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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Mike (Buzz) Thomson

Mike (Buzz) Thomson

House of Travel Hobsonville

With 20 years experience in the travel industry both here and abroad I use this knowledge every day to create unforgettable journeys for my clients.

I'd love to hear what your plans are and together we'll create a well organised memorable trip.

Mike

Gemma Pearce

Gemma Pearce

House of Travel Barrington

I love turning people's dreams into reality and enjoy sharing my travel experiences.

Travel is my passion and I feel it’s the only thing you can buy that makes you richer!

Gemma

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

Victoria Wales

Victoria Wales

House of Travel Christchurch City

Unmatched in her lifetime experience within the conference and incentive travel industry, Victoria heads-up HOT Events and truly delights in delivering fantastic results for our clients. 

Making magic happen is Victoria's specialty. She understands what is required to deliver top experiences for delegates and incentive visitors. In high demand by both clients and colleagues alike, Victoria is keen to share her skills and works closely with the team to ensure every part of a programme, from concept delivery, is exceptional .

Although Victoria's hospitality management studies included chief training - it doesn't mean she does a lot of it now - preferring to hunt out the latest wining and dining options in town. She does bring this knowledge to the table when hosting groups on or off shore - ensuring the venue is the ideal place for the specific group's requirements. 

"The best part of my job is year after year, hosting many of the same clients - I am challenged to make their experience better than the year before, and I love it!"

With her wicked sense of humour and her reputation as a people's person, Victoria is committed in delivering first class service to her clients. 

Favourite place to host an event: Vietnam 
Next place on the list to visit: Canada

Victoria

Customer holidays snaps

Best. Spain & Portugal Holidays. Ever!

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