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Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan

Cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan’s pastel pink cherry blossoms smell as good as they look. While the trees seldom bear fruit, the blossom flourishes every spring, and with it comes an intoxicating floral scent.

The Japanese celebrate Sakura (cherry blossom) with Hanami, literally “flower viewing” celebrations which take place in March and April.

Locals organise flower appreciation picnics under the blooms, sitting beneath the bubble gum petals and sipping on ‘Sakura’ Pepsi. For a limited time, even the cola’s pink! 

“You have to try the Starbucks sakura-themed drinks - they are an acquired taste but has to be done!”

Recommended by Steph Towers , HOT Mt Maunganui

Steph Wheeler

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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

Tori Melody

Tori Melody

House of Travel Devonport

Lovely to meet you — and welcome, fellow adventure seekers!

I’m Tori, your dedicated travel consultant and in-house explorer. With four years in the industry, countless miles travelled, and a genuine passion for crafting meaningful journeys, I’m here to help turn your travel dreams into experiences that stay with you for life.

As a USA travel expert and global theme park enthusiast (yes — Disney and Universal are my happy places!), I specialise in the kinds of holidays that bring people together and spark unforgettable moments. Whether it’s a multi-generational family escape, a self-drive road trip, a backpacking adventure, or a tailor-made private itinerary, I love creating travel plans that feel personal, seamless, and exciting.

Adventure comes in many forms — hiking hidden trails, tasting a city’s flavours on a food tour, discovering rich history, sailing on a cruise, or joining an 18–35s group tour to meet new friends. Whatever your style, I’m here to match you with experiences that broaden your horizons and deepen your love for the world around you.

Alongside planning travel, I also run our store’s social media pages, keeping our community inspired with fresh ideas and insider knowledge.

If you’re looking for a consultant who brings passion, expertise, creativity, and genuine care to every itinerary, I’d love to be part of your next adventure

Tori 

Alyssa Kane

Alyssa Kane

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

Travel is my happy place, and there’s nothing I love more than helping people turn “one day” into “let’s book it!” ??

I believe travel is about so much more than just visiting somewhere new , it about the experiences, the adventures, the little moments and the memories that stay with you long after you arrive home!

After completing my New Zealand Level 5 & 6 Diplomas in Travel and Tourism, I joined the House of Travel team, and I’ve never looked back. I’ve loved being part of helping people turn their travel dreams into a reality and creating holidays that they’ll remember for years to come.

I love all things travel, whether it’s soaking up the sun on a beautiful beach, exploring a new city, cruising to incredible destinations, chasing a little adventure or experiencing the magic of somewhere like Disneyland! My own travels have given me a real appreciation for the excitement of discovering somewhere new, and I love being able to share my knowledge, tips and recommendations with my clients.

Whether you have a bucket-list adventure in mind, are dreaming of a relaxing getaway or have absolutely no idea where to start, I’m here to make the whole process easy, exciting and stress-free.

So, what are you waiting for? Bring me your ideas, your wish lists, and your wildest travel dreams, and let’s turn them into your next boarding pass to an unforgettable adventure!


Alyssa
Kirsty Howlett

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

Best. Holidays. Ever!

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Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan