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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

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



Penni McDonald

Penni McDonald

House of Travel Auckland City

As the stores resident cruise specialist without a doubt my favorite way to travel is by ship.

11 cruises so far & inspections of a further 20+ ships.

River cruises on the Nile, Danube & Rhone.

Ocean cruises in the South Pacific, Caribbean & NZ.

Penni

Deepti Mehta

Deepti Mehta

House of Travel Hobsonville

As someone who loves to explore the world, I've been to many places and learned a lot along the way. Now, I use that knowledge to help others plan amazing trips. Whether you want excitement, relaxation, or cultural experiences, I make personalized travel plans that suit your needs. What sets me apart is my genuine dedication to top-notch service. I've been in the travel business for a while, so I know how to make your trip extraordinary. When you choose me as your travel advisor, you're not just booking a trip, you're starting a journey with someone who truly wants to make it unforgettable. So, if you're ready for your next adventure, let's talk!

Deepti 

Courtney McCormack

Courtney McCormack

House of Travel Morrinsville

Travel is truly in my blood. My grandparents sparked the travel bug in my mum, and she passed that passion on to me. From the moment I took my very first holiday at age three, a magical trip to Disneyland, I was hooked. Growing up, I listened to my mum’s stories from her OE, my cousins’ globe-trotting adventures, and my sister’s explorations, all of which fueled my own wanderlust.

Over the years, I’ve lived in Scotland, as well as in England and Ireland, soaking up different cultures and ways of life. I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively, exploring incredible destinations including Jordan, Israel, the USA, Australia & Europe. I’ve experienced the security and ease of organised solo travel with Contiki and Topdeck tours, but I’ve also embraced the challenge and freedom of planning my own trips, like eloping in Denmark, which remains one of my most cherished adventures.

With a background in hospitality, I combine practical knowledge with genuine care to craft holidays that are personalised, meaningful, and seamless. I love getting to know your unique travel style and what matters most to you, whether that’s family fun, a romantic escape, or a bucket-list adventure.

I’m not just your travel consultant; I’m your travel cheerleader. I’ll celebrate every countdown with you, smooth out any bumps along the way, and be just as excited when everything comes together perfectly. My goal is to take the stress out of travel planning, so you can focus on making memories.

Let’s work together to create a travel experience that’s not only unforgettable but uniquely yours.


Courtney

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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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