Alpine & apres ski ... in Japan!
Japan Ski

With Japan’s ski-resorts getting more than twice the snow dumping that world-famous Utah and Colorado get in a year, it’s no surprise Japan is the flavour of the year for skiers! From small local ski fields to sprawling international resorts, Japan is famous for its quality dry snow and has terrain for everyone. Experience an exciting culture, great food & amazing skiing all at once.
Niseko Village in the Hokkaido region, celebrated for its pristine, powder-covered slope is the place to go! It’s an exciting and vibrant place with three separate ski areas all linked together. This luxury ski resort is located next to a towering active volcano! After a day of skiing or boarding unwind in an onsen pool and enjoy apres-ski in style. Sinking into an onsen (a Japanese style hot pool) at the end of a hard day on the mountain to ease the muscles then heading out for an authentic Japanese meal and maybe even a spot of Karaoke is unbeatable! Dinner at Dragons Den, an amazing little bar and restaurant overlooking the piste, provides the perfect place to enjoy a well earnt Sapporo and look up at the fresh tracks you’ve just carved into the mountain.
For a fully immersive experience fly to Sapporo on the island of Hokkaido – if you go in February take part in the Snow Festival known for its amazing ice sculpture competition.

Andy Gosnell
House of Travel Christchurch City
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

Loris Sowman
House of Travel Mount Maunganui
I recently joined the team at House of Travel Mt Maunganui after relocating from Hamilton, where I’d previously worked with Calder & Lawson House of Travel.
After many years in the travel industry, what makes this job special to me, is having my clients return from their trips to tell me about their adventures and then wanting to rebook another holiday with me - they do say the best way to overcome the post-travel blues is to already be planning your next one, and I couldn’t agree more!
I would love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.

Jason McKay
House of Travel Nelson

Carmel Layton
House of Travel Nelson
Hi, I’m Carmel Layton. Travel has been a huge part of my life from my first trip overseas as a 6 year old to travelling independently in my twenties and I have travelled to over 72 countries around the world, it has always been a key ingredient in my life.
I am an experienced and passionate travel professional with over 15 years in the industry. From a short South Pacific getaway to a trip around the globe, I look forward to helping you realise your travel dreams.
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