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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!

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Cheryl Edwards

Cheryl Edwards

House of Travel Albany

I’ve been fortunate to travel extensively and live in some amazing cities.

I'd love to inspire you to travel more by drawing on my personal experiences & knowledge to make your dreams a reality

As a travel agent with 30+ (gulp)  years of experience, I’ve learned that no two journeys are ever the same—and that’s what keeps this job exciting.

While travel is one of life’s greatest pleasures, planning it can sometimes feel overwhelming. That’s where I come in. I’ll take care of every detail so you can focus on what matters most: making unforgettable memories.


"Because life’s too short not to see the world"

Cheryl 

Shelley Rich

Shelley Rich

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I have been a part of the travel industry for over 30 years and still love it!

I love to travel and I often joke with my clients that I live vicariously through them.

Planning the perfect holiday for my clients fills me with joy. I take pride in what I do and love sharing my passion of travel.

Many of my clients have become life long friends. 

Shelley

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
Maree Thompson

Maree Thompson

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

From the first travel I did as a teenager I have wanted to travel the world, experience the food, absorb the culture and learn the history!!!

I have always been passionate about creating the ultimate holidays and feel that makes me the best planner of your holidays that I can be!! 

I had been selling travel for over 20 years when I felt something else was needed and to the leap to be the retail manger of House of Travel Papamoa. I feel I have never looked back and enjoy leading a fantastic group of people!!

I love my job!!! I love the fact that no one holiday is ever the same and also thrive on a challenge of a complex itinerary, round the world flight or something out of the norm. 

I think the benefit you get with me is the experience I have had planning and travel and the places I have travelled. 

I have travelled extensively and in particular done a lot around New Zealand, Australia, South Pacific Islands, USA and Europe and find that travel opens your mind to another world full of new experiences, new tastes and an appreciation for life in general. 

I have a rule that every trip I do I need to pick one unique thing to do on holiday that is un-usual or you would not do on another holiday .... I have been hot air ballooning, have been on a segway tour, have helicoptered out to an island etc.

My Travel Tips

* I am a bit of a IT geek so always travel with an adaptor that has USB ports for my IWatch, iPhone and iPad. 

*Have a store of great apps that help with travel, packing, maps, closest toilet etc.!!

*Always keep in touch with your travel agent so they can keep you up to date with deals that are out for your next holiday.

*Cash passports are a MUST as safe and easy way to travel. 

The best holidays are definitely created together so would love to get you in for an appointment and have a discussion about your travel dreams.

Maree


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Hibernate in a cave in Puglia