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Go to an ice-hockey match in Canada

Canada

It’s just hockey. In Canada, you don’t need to specify the ice; it’s a national given. It’s also a national obsession. Imagine 18,000 passionate fans screaming in your ears, the thwack of a puck on stick and the constant hiss of razorsharp blades slicing through ice.

If you’re lucky enough to be in Vancouver at the same time as the Vancouver Canucks, throw down your Canadian bucks and buy tickets to a game. At the Rogers Arena, the atmosphere is guaranteed electric, with erratic bursts of 80s rock music, bellowing fans and a heady mix of popcorn, beer and hot dogs.

Gather rink-side 30-minutes prior to opening face-off and watch the players go through their warm-ups. If you hear the sudden ‘thfffft’ of a wayward puck, you better dive behind the perspex.

“Go for the hockey, stay for the people watching! From the thunderous cheering of the crowds to the copious amount of food on offer (don't miss the hot dogs & poutine), watching an ice-hockey match is a must do when in Canada”

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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

Sarah Henderson

House of Travel Christchurch City

Sarah's passion for her career and professional manner is reflected in her efficiency when taking care of your business travel arrangements. It is no surprise that Sarah is consistently recognised as one of the Top 10 Consultants for the House of Travel Group in New Zealand, including being one of the legends in the Hall of Fame!

"I love making travel simple for my client's. I know exactly where they like to sit on each aircraft type; their favourite hotels to stay and all the nitty gritty details to make travel less stressful."

Having recently celebrated working at House of Travel Christchurch City for 20 years, Sarah has extensive experience for all travel scenarios and is committed to finding the best possible solution for all her clients - even when issues are beyond her control.

When not at her desk, Sarah loves competing in the weekly pub quiz and on the weekends you will find her planting more roses in her 150-year-old Homestead garden.

Favourite place to visit: Disneyland
Next place to visit: Paris and someday, Russia

Sarah

Leonie Paul

House of Travel Blenheim

With nearly two decades at House of Travel, I’m always dreaming of the next adventure. The more I explore, the longer my bucket list grows! The thrill of planning a new journey and learning from each experience excites me.

Discussing travel daily is my passion, I love helping clients realize their travel dreams and living vicariously through their experiences.

Getting to know my clients and understanding what matters most to them is something I truly enjoy. This insight allows me to craft itineraries that are as unique and special as the travelers themselves.

There's nothing more satisfying than a client returning with tales of their adventures. I love hearing their stories, as each journey is different—there's no one-size-fits-all approach to travel.

For me, travel offers the opportunity to learn more about the world around us. With every journey, I find new perspectives, cultures, and places to love.

Travel isn’t just about the places we visit—it's about the growth we experience along the way.

Leonie

Carly Dorrington

House of Travel Papamoa

As a passionate globetrotter, I've explored the corners of the world with my three adventurous children and alongside friends and family, indulging in everything from backpacking escapades to luxurious resort retreats and exhilarating cruises.

My journey through the tapestry of travel experiences has been enriched by my upbringing in England and my time spent living amidst the captivating landscapes of Western Australia. It's these diverse backgrounds that have instilled in me a profound love for travel and a deep understanding of the intricacies of exploring different cultures and landscapes.

My journey through countless destinations has ignited a fervent dedication to curating unforgettable travel experiences, not just for myself, but for fellow wanderlust souls seeking to fulfil their travel dreams. Whether you're yearning for the rugged thrill of backpacking, the tranquil family getaways, the opulence of fancy resorts, or the serene luxury of cruising, I'm here to weave together the perfect itinerary tailored to your desires.

I want to take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on the excitement of your trip. I am highly organised and like to ensure everything has been thought of and accounted for. Communicating clearly along the way with you so you feel confident and reassured.

I would love to help you with your next journey....wherever it may be!

Carly