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Sweden

Scandi style meets raw, wild beauty


From fika to forests – fall for Sweden

It’s hard not to associate Sweden with stylish fashion and sleek, modern design. But there’s so much more to this captivating country than impeccably dressed locals and clean-lined architecture.

Beyond the cities, Sweden’s great outdoors will leave you speechless – paddle across glassy lakes, hike through emerald-green forests, or bask in the golden glow of the midnight sun. In winter, wrap up for a cosy fika (think coffee and cinnamon buns) before wandering the cobbled streets of Gamla Stan, where history whispers from every crooked lane and stone façade.

Craving urban inspiration? You’ll find cutting-edge galleries, boutique design stores and buzzing waterfront cafés in the cities. But if it’s wild outdoor bliss you’re chasing, head north to the alpine beauty of Lappland or the dramatic wonder of Skuleskogen National Park, where ancient coastlines rise nearly 300 metres above the sea, and forest, mountain and ocean come together in spectacular style.

Start planning your Scandinavian escape with our Europe specialists  – Sweden is waiting.

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Our Europe specialists

Hayley Mundy

Hayley Mundy

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

After 30 years selling travel, its still a buzz creating fabulous holidays, watching my clients anticipation and being a part of the planning, knowing the excitement they have towards their journey and of course hearing all about it when they return ... It's almost as good as being on the trip with them! 

Travel has really changed over the last few years, so let me help you navigate this new travel era, and create a holiday to remember, with the backing of an incredible House of Travel team.

Hayley


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



Esther Ru Bay

Esther Ru Bay

House of Travel Papamoa

For over 20 years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping people explore the world. From weekend getaways to once-in-a-lifetime journeys, I’ve sent travelers to every corner of the globe—each trip teaching me something new and deepening my passion for travel planning.

What I love most is working with people to craft experiences that go far beyond just itineraries and bookings. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family adventure, a cultural deep dive, or a soul-searching solo trip, I take the time to understand what matters most to you. Together, we create meaningful, memorable journeys that you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.

In the past few years, the travel landscape has changed dramatically. Flight disruptions, evolving health regulations, and new requirements have made things more complicated than ever. But with experience comes adaptability. We've become experts at staying ahead of the curve—navigating changes with confidence, keeping you informed, and ensuring your plans stay on track no matter what.

My goal is simple: to take the stress out of travel so you can focus on the joy of discovery. From the moment we start planning to the moment you return home, I’m here to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.

Travel might be more complex today—but that’s exactly why having someone in your corner makes all the difference. Let’s plan something amazing.


Esther

Petra Otte

Petra Otte

House of Travel Wellington City

Having spent 40+ years, 30 owning my own HOT outlet here in the heart of Wellington, in this exciting and ever changing industry you could say that extraordinary resilience is at the top of my skite sheet given the many and varying challenges that have faced travellers over the years.

My clients and colleagues describe me as a passionate people person, who endeavours to get the best out of a traveller's investment.

It is important for me to be inclusive of everyone within a travelling party, to hear the voice of each traveller, and ensure everyone's wishes are met.

Having been to all continents bar Antarctica which is high on my list, I have also travelled in all styles from budget overland backpacking to luxury cruises which allows me to relate to all clients and work with you for what is best for you. 

Petra

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Flight time

The flight from Auckland to Sweden takes roughly 27 hours with a stopover. You might need a nap when you get there but those gorgeous landscapes will soon make you forget any tiredness.

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Best time to go

Sweden shines in summer with endless daylight and vibrant festivals, but winter brings snowy landscapes and northern lights. Visit June–August for midnight sun adventures, or November–March for magical aurora displays.

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Time difference

Sweden is 10-12 hours behind New Zealand depending on Daylight Saving at both ends. But don't worry about lost time if you're going in summer - daylight hours go on forever over there.

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