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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!

Connect with an Italy specialist

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Elizabeth Turney

Elizabeth Turney

House of Travel Hamilton City

I’m someone who’s always had a deep passion for travel and a genuine love of connecting people with the world around them.

I’ve been fortunate to live in several countries and have spent many months backpacking through South America, Europe and Asia, experiences that have given me a deep appreciation for different cultures, landscapes, and ways of life. For me, travel is more than just visiting new places, it’s about creating meaningful connections and helping others experience the transformative power of discovering the world.

Whether it’s sharing stories, planning journeys, or offering guidance, I’m passionate about helping others create their own unforgettable travel experiences.

Liz

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


Jay Irvine

Jay Irvine

House of Travel Barrington

With my own experience in travel, along with my corporate background as well.

I have been able to book a wide variety of trips ranging from flop and drop holidays through to sport events and everything in between.

Jay

Aurelie Johnson

Aurelie Johnson

House of Travel Lower Hutt

Born in France, I moved to New Zealand in 2019.

Passionate in travel, I explored Europe from a young age, then decided to go a bit further with my backpack, first in Vietnam for a month, then in New Zealand for a year (that is when I fell in love with Aotearoa).

I started to work in the travel industry by organising safari trips in Tanzania, where I went several times as a tour leader.

Discovering new places, countries, cultures is an amazing way to create memories, that is why I love helping clients to organise their holiday.

There is nothing more satisfying to me than a client popping in store after their journey to tell me all about the adventures they've had.

Aurelie

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Hibernate in a cave in Puglia