Hibernate in a cave in Puglia
Italy, Europe
If you’re looking for an experience that is as unique as it is authentic, then staying in the ancient cave dwellings carved into the limestone cliffs in Italy’s magical city of Matera is for you!
Not the type of cave you might find Bear Grylls bunkering down for the night, but a plush cave hotel in one of Europe’s most unusual landscapes. The Italian city of Matera is renowned for its ancient cave dwellings. These intriguing stone residences are cut into rock faces within a labyrinth of narrow streets and tumbling lodgings chipped into the cliffside.
A UNESCO World Heritage site, between the stone churches and ancient alleyways, the caves have been carefully restored in full respect of the local cultural heritage. Fear not, with king size beds and ensuite bathrooms, these hotel caves offer every comfort!
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Cherone Wilson
House of Travel Howick
Travel has been a constant in my life since my OE started with a classic Contiki trip through Europe, followed by working in London and traveling through the UK, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel. I also spent a year working in Iceland—a now trendy travel hotspot—before returning to New Zealand.
In 2000, my family moved to the middle east living in both Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, which provided an exciting base for exploring nearby destinations. We had unforgettable holidays in Austria, France, the UK, Cyprus, Egypt, Jordan, Turkey, Sri Lanka, and Kenya.
Returning to New Zealand marked a new chapter of travel, this time without children. Recent adventures have included Vietnam, India, China, Peru, and Cambodia.
My travel career started with Singapore Airlines and since 2019 I’ve been consulting at House of Travel in Howick. I love talking and connecting with clients, listening to their travel dreams and turning them into memorable experiences.
Whether you're looking for an island getaway, relaxing cruise or an exciting adventure, I’m here to help you plan the perfect trip.
Travel is an adventure that brings the world to life.
Cherone
Esther Ru Bay
House of Travel Papamoa
For over 20 years, I’ve had the incredible privilege of helping people explore the world. From weekend getaways to once-in-a-lifetime journeys, I’ve sent travelers to every corner of the globe—each trip teaching me something new and deepening my passion for travel planning.
What I love most is working with people to craft experiences that go far beyond just itineraries and bookings. Whether it’s a romantic escape, a family adventure, a cultural deep dive, or a soul-searching solo trip, I take the time to understand what matters most to you. Together, we create meaningful, memorable journeys that you’ll carry with you for a lifetime.
In the past few years, the travel landscape has changed dramatically. Flight disruptions, evolving health regulations, and new requirements have made things more complicated than ever. But with experience comes adaptability. We've become experts at staying ahead of the curve—navigating changes with confidence, keeping you informed, and ensuring your plans stay on track no matter what.
My goal is simple: to take the stress out of travel so you can focus on the joy of discovery. From the moment we start planning to the moment you return home, I’m here to make your experience smooth, enjoyable, and truly unforgettable.
Travel might be more complex today—but that’s exactly why having someone in your corner makes all the difference. Let’s plan something amazing.
Esther
Hannah Smaha
House of Travel Johnsonville
Creating a holiday to suit your needs and budget is one of my favourite things to do.
Whether it's based on my own experiences or researching an obscure destination that is on your bucket list, I can't wait to help you book your dream holiday.?
Hannah
Tracey Edgecombe
House of Travel New Plymouth
I liken planning a holiday to baking a cake. It takes several well measured and thought out ingredients for a great result.
I have been lucky to have travelled extensively myself and being a travel consultant for more than 20 years, I use these 'ingredients' - experience and expertise - to draw on to help create amazing holidays and lifelong memories.
It is such a pleasure to help my clients get the best out of their holidays and manage an incredible team of travel professionals.
Tracey
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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