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Beat the blues at Mardi Gras in New Orleans

New Orleans

Beads, beer and blues music, New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is a chaotic explosion of celebration, with music and mayhem pulsating from every crack in the brickwork.

Mardi Gras is French for ‘Fat Tuesday’ and symbolises the last day of indulging before fasting. This is Cajun country, so get acquainted with lively flavours.

Lock lips with an infamous beignet at Café du Monde in the French Quarter, and descend on the bakeries, open pre-dawn, for a traditional Mardi Gras ‘King Cake’. These gluttonous treats are ring-shaped and frosted. Inside there’s a tiny plastic baby – find it and tradition insists you have to buy next year’s cake

“Wear green, purple & gold and join in one of the Second Line Parades around the city. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the Mardi Gras culture. Just remember to wear comfy shoes as dancing along to the brass band is hard to resist!”

Recommended by Carla McKinnon , HOT Whangarei

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Anna Lewis

Anna Lewis

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

As a passionate and dedicated travel consultant, my unique approach to exploring the world sets me apart from the rest. My love for immersing myself in new cultures, venturing beyond bustling cities and connecting with locals allows me to create truly authentic and memorable experiences for my clients. I have a genuine enthusiasm for helping others achieve their travel dreams, and bring a wealth of personal knowledge and insights to every itinerary I craft. Having extensively explored the diverse landscapes of North America, the vibrant cultures of South-East Asia, and the idyllic islands of the South Pacific, my expertise guarantees that each adventure I design is tailored to exceed expectations, leaving my clients with unforgettable memories to cherish for a lifetime. 

Anna

Kelly-Ann Patterson

Kelly-Ann Patterson

House of Travel Lower Hutt

I'm seen as a great relationship builder who is passionate about people and their travel adventures. I've travelled extensively both on my own and with my two teenage boys. Rarely go to any place twice as there's too much of the world to see. 

I don't have a specific favourite destination as it's all about new frontiers for me and stepping outside of my comfort zone. 

I've been in the industry for 20+ years including 5 years working for Air New Zealand where I gained a wealth of knowledge which I'm finding invaluable in the complex world of airfares post COVID. 

Contact me - always up for a chat!

Kelly-Ann 

Loris Sowman

Loris Sowman

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I recently joined the team at House of Travel Mt Maunganui after relocating from Hamilton, where I’d previously worked with Calder & Lawson House of Travel.

After many years in the travel industry, what makes this job special to me, is having my clients return from their trips to tell me about their adventures and then wanting to rebook another holiday with me - they do say the best way to overcome the post-travel blues is to already be planning your next one, and I couldn’t agree more!

I would love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.

Loris
Torin Wilson

Torin Wilson

House of Travel High Street Lanes, Christchurch CBD

With over 12 years of experience in the travel industry and a proud gold award to my name, I’m passionate about discovering and sharing unique destinations with my clients. I believe that every journey should be special, which is why I take the time to understand your preferences and curate experiences that truly resonate with you. Let’s explore hidden gems and off-the-beaten-path adventures together—because travel is about creating unforgettable memories!

Torin

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