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Visit the Mona Lisa & stroll the Champ Elysees

France

France is just one of those destinations you must visit at least once in your lifetime! Le Louvre housing Leonardo Da Vinci’s famous art piece Mona Lisa, the prestigious Champs Elysee, the world-famous Eiffel Tower and the River Seine are land marks Paris is known the world over.

Sip a café au lait in a chic Parisian café (our favourite Café de Flore in Saint-Germain), enjoy the flaky butteriness of a freshly baked croissant from a patisserie (the eclairs from L’Eclair de Genie are devine!), browse famous works of art in Le Louvre (take a stroll through the iconic park Les Tuileries in front of Le Lourvre), climb the Arc de Triomphe or Eiffel Tower for views across the city, explore boutiques in the cobbled streets or prestigious Belle-Epoque department stores such as Galeries Lafayette along the Champs-Élysées.

Paris is always a good idea!

“A walking tour is the best way to see all the sights and the hidden gems from the locals! ”

Recommended by Chanel Gray , HOT The Square

Chanel Grey

Connect with a France specialist

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Jay Irvine

Jay Irvine

House of Travel Barrington

Travel has always been a passion of mine, but what I enjoy most is helping others experience the excitement that comes with planning their next adventure. Whether it's a once-in-a-lifetime holiday, a family getaway, a cruise, or a quick escape, I love taking the stress out of the planning process so my clients can simply look forward to their trip.

As a Travel Consultant with House of Travel, I've been fortunate to experience a wide variety of travel styles first-hand. From ocean cruising and independent travel to small group journeys and fully escorted tours, I understand that no two travellers are the same. I've explored destinations throughout Australia, Europe, Asia, the South Pacific and the USA, giving me genuine first-hand knowledge that I can share with my clients.

Australia remains one of my favourite destinations, with its incredible mix of vibrant cities, stunning coastlines and unforgettable regional experiences. Cruising is another personal passion, and I enjoy helping clients find the perfect ship and itinerary, whether it's their very first cruise or they're seasoned travellers looking for their next adventure.

I believe the best holidays are built around the people taking them. That's why I take the time to understand what my clients enjoy, what inspires them, and what they want from their travels. My goal is simple—to create seamless, memorable holidays while providing honest advice, personalised service, and support every step of the way.


Jay

Sharon Rapsey

Sharon Rapsey

House of Travel Christchurch City

Sharon has been with the House of Travel team for 15 years and is known throughout the New Zealand wide team as Shaz. Shaz's 10 years' experience in the groups and events division is invaluable.

Her knowledge of the best seats at the Australian Open, to her contacts for all things Motor Sport makes her an integral part of our team. 

A tennis player herself, Shaz has a passion for the sport and having attended many times has valuable information, she can help tick the Grand Slams off your bucket list. 

"I love helping all our clients with their dream holiday based around a special event, anywhere in the world I will endeavor to access the best possible tickets for your experience. My motto is to create memories, not things". 

Away from the events world, Shaz works in her beauty business.... that is when she isn't on the court. 

Favourite place to visit: Thailand
Next place on the list to visit: Africa

Sharon
Chris Fifield

Chris Fifield

House of Travel Christchurch City

Chris has travelled the globe several times over... with his 30 plus years' experience in the industry he is unquestionably efficient and knowledgeable when it comes to organising any form of travel!

Chris' passion for his career is evident in all holidays he organises. His personal travel experiences compliment his leisure travel background, as he can think outside the box logistically and ensure that all your travel needs are met, and you are guided throughout your journey. 

"Whether your travel dreams are exploring the rugged West Coast of New Zealand to a luxury break in Fiji, I am 100% committed to ensuring you have the best experience planning and fulfilling your dream holiday." 

Outside of work, you will find Chris in the great outdoors having fished his way throughout New Zealand, hiked the Inca Trail in Peru, skied the Canadian Rockies, just to name a few. 

Years in the industry: 37 
No. of countries visited: 40+ 
Favourite place to visit: Western Canada
Next place on the list to visit: Bali

Work, save, travel, repeat. 


Why I love travel: 

There is so many different cultures to experience and history that goes way beyond New Zealand's few hundred years of course - stunning natural beauty can be enjoyed all over the world.


My travel tips:

  • If you are there - do it. Travel is all about experiences that create wonderful memories, so don't regret not doing something because you were concerned about the price - the bank won't mind and you will talk about it for years to come. 
  • Pack light as you can always find a laundromat - though I do need to take me own advice! 
  • Find the most comfortable walking shoes you can find and break them in before you go. You will probably do lots of walking in some countries .... old European cobbled streets can take a toll. 
  • Be prepared to and learn how to tip so you don't get thought of as a bad tourist - most of the world tips for service and yet it's so foreign to us, but very important to do so. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Pacific Islands - a close tropical beach escape. The rest of the world dreams of these exotic locations and they are just there for us. 
  • Canada - amazing wilderness experiences on a grand scale.
  • Italy - organised chaos! I just love the expressive personalities of the people, as well the fabulous food and drink and amazing history. 
  • Vietnam - a bit of everything from great beaches to amazing food and stunning rural scenery and different minority cultures.
  • Mediterranean Cruise - why not take your hotel with you - wake up each day with a new culture and experience to be had - this is the place to cruise!

What's in my suitcase:

  • Too much - I must do better!
  • One universal adaptor and a 4 plug New Zealand multi box


Chris


Carol Stratford

Carol Stratford

House of Travel Lower Hutt

Travel has been my passion for more than 20 years. While I took time out to raise my family, I couldn't stay away from an industry I truly love. 

Whether you're dreaming of a family getaway, a cruise, a special celebration, or an adventure somewhere new, I'm here to help make it happen. I love getting to know my clients and creating holidays that are as unique as they are. Whether you're one of my valued long-standing clients or we're yet to meet, I'm here to help bring your travel dreams to life. 

I'd love to hear about the adventures you have planned and work with you to create your Best Holiday Ever. Give me a call, send me an email, or pop into the store for a chat, I look forward to meeting you and helping you start your next journey. 

Carol

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Visit the Mona Lisa & stroll the Champ Elysees