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A magical Christmas in New York

New York

The Big Apple does Christmas better than anywhere else, and New Yorkers seize the opportunity to celebrate every moment of it.

Start the silly season off by heading along to Rockefeller Centre to see the towering Christmas tree with the Swarovski Star and over 30,000 glittering lights. Marvel at the ice skaters zipping around Bryant Park, and be awestruck by the amazing decorations and store window displays along Fifth Avenue. Explore outdoor Christmas markets, making sure not to miss Macy’s Santaland, and check out FAO Schwarz, New York’s most famous toy store.

Christmas in New York is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Inspired for 2024? Now’s the time to be booking your magical Christmas in New York!

“Do as the locals do and enjoy a cocktail on a rooftop bar – 230 Fifth is as the name suggests located at 230 5th Ave. The views of the Empire State Building and out across Manhattan are incredible – and they have heaters and cosy rooftop igloos – very cool!”

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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

Nicky de Clifford

House of Travel Merivale

Having spent the last 30 years in the Travel Industry I can safely say "I love my job" !!

Getting to put together dream holidays is very rewarding and it's great to see so many more Kiwis getting out to see this amazing world of ours...

I love to tailor holidays that are uniquely personal to you. Every person has different needs, wants and "must do's" for their holiday. Nothing is cookie cutter in the world of travel so being able to put together an itinerary that is bespoke and personal is rewarding for myself and for you, the traveller.

My favourite destinations would be Europe (especially France and Italy), South East Asia (especially Vietnam and Thailand) and of course our Island neighbours. I have been to Fiji numerous times and every time I just love it.
But there are so many places I have yet to travel to and I look forward to sharing my travel stories along the way.

I look forward to working with you..

Nicky

Kirsty Howlett

House of Travel Palmerston North: Broadway

I love that travel experiences gives you lasting memoires. I've worked in almost every area of the travel industry over the last 30 years and have a wealth of experience to help plan your next trip!

Kirsty

Kelsey Mackay

House of Travel Hamilton East (formely Calder and Lawson)

Travel has always been more than just getting from A to B for me, it’s about the experiences, the memories, and the confidence that comes from seeing the world in a new way.

I love helping people plan trips that truly suit them, whether that’s a relaxing island escape, a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, or a well-earned holiday where everything just runs smoothly. I take the time to understand what’s important to each client, and I’m known for being organised, responsive, and honest with my advice.

Having travelled myself and worked closely with trusted suppliers, I enjoy sharing practical insights and industry knowledge that help take the stress out of planning. From the early ideas right through to the finer details, my goal is to make sure you feel supported, informed, and excited about your holiday.

There’s nothing better than hearing about a great trip when clients return, knowing I’ve played a small part in helping create something really special and it's certainly making my Book-It "List" turn into a Novel!

My favourite place I have visited is Puerto Rico - from the beautiful white-sand beaches and the best coffee & chocolate I’ve ever had, this country is so rich with culture. It’s sure to be a memorable port stop on your next Caribbean Cruise.

The next place I would love to explore is Indonesia & South America!

Kelsey