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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!" 

"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

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. 

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

As the proud Owner Operator of House of Travel Nelson, I lead a small but passionate team dedicated to taking care of all your travel needs.

I primarily work on the Orbit World Travel side of our business, specialising in business and group travel. But as a traveller myself, I love chatting with customers and the team about their upcoming adventures — there’s nothing better than sharing in the excitement of a great trip!

Travel has played a huge role in my life. From years of family holidays to the Gold Coast and Fiji, where the kids spent hours in the pool or on the playground, to unforgettable highlights like Disneyland (they were 10 and 12 — the perfect age!), followed by a relaxing week in Mexico. These days, with older kids, we’re seeking more adventure. Our recent trip to Vietnam was a standout — from the vibrant energy of Ho Chi Minh City to the peaceful beauty of Hoi An's lanterns and Halong Bay. If you haven’t been, it’s a must! 

Next on my list? Europe. While I’ve done a couple of quick trips in the past, I’m keen to take the time to explore the diverse cultures and rich history of the places I’ve spent years helping others discover.

Whether your trip is big or small, come in and see us at House of Travel Nelson — we’ll make sure it’s your best one yet.

Jason

Whether it's a quick getaway or a big bucket-list journey, I'm here to make it smooth, fun and stress free. I love seeing customers' faces light up with excitement when everything comes together.

Let's turn your travel dreams into a reality!

Alicia