Vanuatu

I have been in the Travel Industry for over 10 years, starting off primarily selling Australia, then moving to House of Travel in the Product Department where I was for 4 years as a South Pacific Destination Expert. In April 2023, I was given an opportunity to work here at House of Travel Ellerslie in a retail role. Here I have discovered a love of creating and curating holidays for all types of travellers to ensure they have the best possible experiences while there. 

Cassandra Lyes-Peterson

Embarking on a journey, whether it's a leisurely escape or an adventurous expedition, requires meticulous planning and a touch of expertise to transform travel into unforgettable experiences. That's where I come in. As your travel consultant, I don't just see it as a job; it's a passion that drives me to curate journeys tailored to your desires and aspirations. Whether you crave the adrenaline rush of scuba diving in Thailand, the thrill of jungle treks in Costa Rica, the freedom of backpacking through Asia, or relaxing on a white sandy beach, I am here to help create the perfect itinerary for you. 

Rosie

There is nothing like having an outgoing and versatile member on a team and Andy is ours! His easy and honest approach makes for an enjoyable relationship and experience for clients, suppliers and all the team. 

Travel has always been a constant in Andy's life. 

Andy first developed a love for travel early, living in the USA for 3 years from the age of 5. After this he has taken every opportunity, travelling the world to some of its most remote spots. Whether he is trekking in the Patagonian Andes, strolling the piazzas of Italy, or visiting family spread across USA, Asia, Europe and the Pacific, Andy's in his element. 

Being in the travel industry for almost 7 years has given Andy a great opportunity to visit amazing places and diversify his knowledge, so no matter where you want to go, he will have some expert advice to make your trip unforgettable. 

"I can help you visit anywhere and experience anything, your only limited by how far your imagination can stretch."

Years in the industry: 7 
No. of countries visited: 10 
Favourite place to visit: Amalfi Coast
Nest place on the list to visit: Yosemite, California

Not all those who wander are lost - J.R.R. Tolkien. 

Why I love travel: 

The places I see and the people I meet, travel really is the best way to broaden the mind. It allows you to experience and learn from all cultures and walks of life. Remember life is short, travel often. 

My travel tips: 

• If you are always early, you are never late. 
• Prebook as much as possible before you go and schedule rest days on long trips.
• Live courageously - you miss 100% of the opportunities you don't take. 

My top 3 favourite destinations: 

• Italy - The food, the history, the people, the stunning coastlines, and mountains. Italy should be on everyone's bucket list. 
• USA - With a multitude of cultures to experience and adventures to be had, you could spend your life just in the USA and not see everything. 
• Patagonia - A challenge to reach, the landscapes that will great you make every minute of the journey worth the effort. 

What's in my suitcase: 

• Kindle/E-reader - it is easy to pack, light to carry, and has a long battery life; this is an essential on all my trips. 
• Noise cancelling headphones - perfect for noisy flights and airports. 
• Travel plug adapter - easy to forget but a must have.

Andy

There is a reason why Belinda was crowned the Top Travel Consultant in New Zealand by the Travel Agents Association of NZ... and it is her commitment to her clients. Belinda's friendly approach puts everyone at ease when planning their trip of a lifetime. She loves finding the perfect cruise for her clients and her knowledge of luxury travel throughout the world is second to none. 

"Travel has the power to enrich your life and with over 25 years travel industry experience, I will provide you with the confidence and support to make your travel dreams a reality. Whether it be time out to reconnect with your family or an engaging cultural experience, my first-hand knowledge and expertise will help you along your journey."

Away from the office Belinda loves getting outdoors for a long walk with the family dog, before sitting down and enjoying a Chardonnay with a fine meal. 

"Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport" - Anonymous

Why I love travel?

I absolutely love the joy and excitement of discovering new countries and cultures that travel brings. The two years of "no travel" during the pandemic has also taught me that revisiting places I've loved in the past gives me just as much joy! Connecting with people and places is very special and I am reminded of this every day in the job I do. 

I love to share my travel and industry experience with my clients so that we can build the best of holidays together! 

My travel tips: 

• Make a bucket list and I can help make those dreams become a reality. Be sure to leave some space for those spur of the moment activities! 
• Always get to the airport early. Much better to be checked in early, relaxing and waiting for your flight than stuck at the back of a queue wondering if you will make it. 
• Download your travelling airlines app for flight notifications. Also download the House of Travel app before you depart so that you can access your whole travel itinerary and other useful travel information while you are on the go. 

My top 5 favourite destinations: 

• Europe - I never tire of visiting Europe. The people, history, food, wine and culture are extraordinary. The best way to see as much as possible if you are short on time is by cruise. You wake up in a different country every day. What's not to love about that. 
• USA - this is a country that needs more than one visit to do it justice. Favourite cities in the states for me are New York, Washington, San Francisco, and Portland (Oregon). Then there are all those incredible national parks. 
• Hawaii - deserves a mention of its own. Incredible beaches, a lovely climate year-round, fantastic outdoor activities and fabulous shopping. I recommend taking a short plane ride of one of the many magical islands that make up Hawaii. 
• Bali - fantastic for a great value getaway whether it be with a group of friends or someone special. The accommodation options are amazing value.... be sure to ask about our villa options. 
• Vietnam - has something for everyone even for first time visitors to Asia. Incredibly moving history, beautiful people, fabulous shopping and food, and wonderful outdoor activities. 

What's in my suitcase?

• Kindle
• Little black dress
• Shoes I can walk miles in

Belinda