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Discover your next blockbuster adventure in the USA

Nevada Valley Fire State Park

United States of play!

Yep, the world would be a pretty boring place without the USA - the land that makes movie stars, has streets paved with their famous names and has homes in Memphis once graced by Elvis.

There’s so much to see and do, with a different experience in every state and around every corner.

For foodies, there is no better place. From the All-American diner to corn dogs at baseball games, you won’t go hungry in the land of Uncle Sam. It’s a huge country, with an even bigger To-do list. 

Each state offers a new adventure, a fresh flavour, and another story to tell. From mouthwatering food scenes that satisfy every craving, to epic landscapes and unforgettable moments that’ll have you saying “wow!” over and over again—this is a place built for making memories.

Come and talk to our USA travel specialists and together let’s start planning your stateside adventure today!

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Flight time.

A flight from Auckland to the West Coast of the USA, such as Los Angeles, takes about 12-13 hours. While it’s a long-haul flight, you’ll be arriving in the land of endless possibilities.

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Best time to go.

The best times to visit the West Coast of the USA are from April to June and September to November, when the weather is milder and the tourist crowds are thinner.

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Time difference.

The West Coast of the USA is 19 hours behind New Zealand. This significant time difference will require some adjustment.

Best USA Road Trips Ever

Our favourite things to do in the USA

View of Utah Arches

Glamping in Utah!

Have a stay ‘Under canvas’ in Utah at Zion or Grand Canyon National Park.

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People playing ice hockey

Head to a sports game

Grab a hot dog and popcorn and join the locals to watch a game.

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Ariel view of the drive from San Francisco to Big Sur

California dreaming!

West is Best - Hire a car and go on a roadie.

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Cars driving through Nashville Tennessee

Music, food and the South

If you are a fan of country, jazz, blues, or rock n’ roll, pack light and buckle up ready for an unforgettable musical journey.

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Person pouring glasses of red wine

Hit the wine road

Calling all wine lovers!

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Get your festival vibes on

Plan your trip to California’s hottest music festivals—Coachella and Stagecoach in Palm Springs!

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People ice skating in Bryant Park at Christmas time

A magical Christmas in New York

The Big Apple does Christmas better than anywhere else, and New Yorkers seize the opportunity to celebrate every moment of it.

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Rodeo Drive sign

Best. Shopping. Ever!

Shop 'til you drop with the best of LA Shopping from luxe boutiques to outlet steals.

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Our USA travel blogs

93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"She was very responsive and happy to help us explore our options."

Lindsay

"She answered our queries politely and offered suggestion’s"

Susan

"Always goes above and beyond to accomodate our wishes when we are booking our yearly overseas travel.Nothing is ever a problem"

Roger

Meet our USA specialists

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Jo McLaughlin

Jo McLaughlin

House of Travel Papamoa

Hi, I’m Jo and I joined the House of Travel Papamoa team in April 2022 not long after the borders opened and it’s fair to say it’s been crazy busy ever since!  No two days are the same and I thrive working in a fast-paced environment.   I have been working in Travel for around 10 years and started in January 2009 at Flight Centre Mt Maunganui and then moved to Auckland in 2011 to step into a management role to open their new retail store in Royal Oak.  I then moved back to the Tauranga area in early 2013 and opened the Flight Centre in Bayfair.  Opening two of Flight Centre’s stores gave me an incredible learning experience and insight into building a business and taking it to incredible heights!  I was also in charge of training multiple new to the industry staff members.  Before Travel I worked in banking for 4 and half years both in the retail branch and the business banking team. 

I have great attention to detail, excellent communication skills and am down to earth, friendly and approachable.  I love meeting new people and building relationships with my clients.  I love putting together itineraries and working closely with you to find your perfect fit.

I'm passionate about travel to Canada and the UK.  As I lived in Vancouver for 6 months and London for nearly 3 years on Working Holidays.  I’ve also spent 3 weeks in Egypt and over 6 weeks in South America.  I’ve travelled on my own to Asia and then jumped on an Intrepid Cambodia tour.  I have also done a 28 day Topdeck Camping trip around Europe and travelled independently using Eurail passes and the Eurostar. Along with many other exciting adventures!

My partner Duncan and I have two children, a son 10 and daughter 9.  We have been on family holidays to Bali and Fiji, staying at Plantation Island and the Naviti on the Coral Coast.  Duncan and I also experienced a Viking ocean cruise (adults only) and absolutely loved it! I have just returned from visiting Darwin, Litchfield and Kakadu National Parks in the Northern Territory, taking the Ghan from Darwin to Adelaide.  I was very fortunate to take a scenic flight over Uluru and Kata Tjuta – just breathtaking!

We live locally in the Papamoa Hills and own a lifestyle block. We love the outdoors and taking advantage of the many wonderful things on offer here in the Tauranga area.  

I’d love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.  


Jo
Minakshi Sharma

Minakshi Sharma

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square

Kia Ora/Namaste/ Sat Sri Akal and Hello to fellow travelers and adventurers! Welcome to the world of travel. 

Originally, from the colourful landscapes of India and now completely wrapped in New Zealand's breathtaking beauty, I'm excited to introduce myself as your dedicated travel consultant with 8 years of experience. My passion for travel inspired an interest in me at a young age, that encouraged me to pursue a master's degree in travel and tourism administration.

Being an Indian woman, I have seen both New Zealand's and India's vibrant cultures and amazing natural beauty. With a passion for exploration and cultural exchange, I bring a unique blend of experiences to craft personalized and memorable travel journeys. 

Whether you dream of exploring the bustling markets of Delhi, relaxing on the tranquil beaches of Goa, or embarking on an adventure through the majestic mountains of New Zealand, my goal is to turn your travel dreams into reality. From navigating the complexities of international flights to discovering hidden gems off the beaten path and the roads less travelled, I am here to ensure your travels are seamless and filled with joyful moments.

Let’s create memories that will last a lifetime, because with the right guidance, the world truly becomes your oyster. 

The world awaits - let's explore it together!


Minakshi

Jason McKay

Jason McKay

House of Travel Nelson

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

Monica Nichol

Monica Nichol

House of Travel Palmerston North: The Square

I grew up dreaming about traveling the world and was fortunate to make some of those dreams come true!

Traveling gets me super excited, so if you are wanting to make your travel dreams become a reality, what are you waiting for?

Come in and see me!

Monica

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