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Go to an ice-hockey match in Canada

Canada

It’s just hockey. In Canada, you don’t need to specify the ice; it’s a national given. It’s also a national obsession. Imagine 18,000 passionate fans screaming in your ears, the thwack of a puck on stick and the constant hiss of razorsharp blades slicing through ice.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Vancouver at the same time as the Vancouver Canucks, throw down your Canadian bucks and buy tickets to a game. At the Rogers Arena, the atmosphere is guaranteed electric, with erratic bursts of 80s rock music, bellowing fans and a heady mix of popcorn, beer and hot dogs.

Gather rink-side 30-minutes prior to opening face-off and watch the players go through their warm-ups. If you hear the sudden ‘thfffft’ of a wayward puck, you better dive behind the perspex.

“Go for the hockey, stay for the people watching! From the thunderous cheering of the crowds to the copious amount of food on offer (don't miss the hot dogs & poutine), watching an ice-hockey match is a must do when in Canada”

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Kyla Strahl

House of Travel Christchurch City

Kyla spent over 6 years crewing on luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Baltic, Adriatic, Caribbean, Pacific and North Seas; along with several Atlantic Ocean crossings. Moving to more adventure land travel Kyla has experienced India, South America and South Africa as a part of the whopping 57 countries she has explored!

"Whether it be cruising, OE's or travelling with a young family my first-hand knowledge will certainly be an asset when planning your winter break, European adventure, or once in a life time dream holiday!"

Years in the industry: 7

No. of countries visited: 57
Favourite place to visit: Italy
Next place on the list to visit: Plantation Island

"Life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better." - Simon Raven

Why I love travel:

Travelling takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to experience new things that we otherwise wouldn't in our normal day to day lives. It enriches your life from meeting new people from all walks of life, trying new food from different corners of the world, and humbles you to appreciate the small things in life.

My travel tips:

Always have travel insurance
Wake up early - whether it be to see the sunrise, or to skip a queue, or get a coffee at the local café.
Make a list of the things you want to experience and pre book as much as you can.
Stay local with everything easily accessible on foot.

My top 5 favourite destinations:

Italy - rolling hills and crystal blue waters, stunning villages and cathedrals, amazing food and wine.
South Africa - rich cultural experiences, amazing wildlife on safari, breath-taking landscapes.
Croatia - stunning beaches and unbelievable landscapes from the islands in the Adriatic to the Krka National Park.
Mexico - amazing food, fascinating Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and fabulous architecture from ancient temples to the colonial cathedrals.
Canada - my birth land! The people, the rich forests, lakes, mountains and wildlife.

What's in my suitcase:

First Aid kit as you can never be too prepared.
Travel Diary - make an effort to write down the highlights of your day, you will look back in appreciation.
Sarong or thin, long scarf - will come in handy as a towel or to cover your shoulders when need be.
Small change of local currency - whether it be to buy a bottle of water or a quick snack or to leave a tip.

Kyla

Kate Jardine

House of Travel Johnsonville

My travel adventures started back in 2004 when I departed on my OE to Scotland with a stop in Dubai.

I have travelled in all styles, backpacking around Europe, small group adventure travel following the volcano trail in Central America, luxury coach touring in Canada and many family resort holidays through the South Pacific.

I love booking travel just as much as experiencing new and exciting destinations myself.

Kate

Lisa Grunsell

House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing

With over 30 years in the travel industry, I still get that same excitement when creating holidays for my clients.

My extensive travel knowledge, combined with personal experiences, allows me to transform your dreams into reality.

Travel has truly been life-changing for me, from the diverse cultures to the countless continents I’ve explored. I would love to share that joy with you.

I invite you to come and chat with me—I’m here to make booking your holiday as easy and stress-free as possible.

Lisa

Jess Carman

House of Travel Wellington City

What I love most about my job is helping others make their travel dreams a reality! It may sound cheesy, but it really is true!

I started out back in 2002 & have enjoyed travels through South East Asia, the Pacific, Australia, USA, the UK & Europe!

After having my son just before our first Covid lockdown in 2020, I took a bit of a hiatus but came back to House of Travel in a support roll for the lovely Petra in April 2024.

Once a travel agent, always a travel agent!

Petra and I work together to weave these dreams for our lovely customers, and I look forward to helping you with yours too!

Jess