“Wear green, purple & gold and join in one of the Second Line Parades around the city. It's a great way to immerse yourself in the Mardi Gras culture. Just remember to wear comfy shoes as dancing along to the brass band is hard to resist!”
Beat the blues at Mardi Gras in New Orleans
New Orleans
Beads, beer and blues music, New Orleans’ Mardi Gras is a chaotic explosion of celebration, with music and mayhem pulsating from every crack in the brickwork.
Mardi Gras is French for ‘Fat Tuesday’ and symbolises the last day of indulging before fasting. This is Cajun country, so get acquainted with lively flavours.
Lock lips with an infamous beignet at Café du Monde in the French Quarter, and descend on the bakeries, open pre-dawn, for a traditional Mardi Gras ‘King Cake’. These gluttonous treats are ring-shaped and frosted. Inside there’s a tiny plastic baby – find it and tradition insists you have to buy next year’s cake
Kathie Maddox
House of Travel Albany
Travelling is my passion and I love planning holidays where I can create the most magical experiences and memories to last a lifetime. I love to share my knowledge of travel and can’t wait to help you plan your exciting new adventure away wherever that may be….
Kathie
Melissa Duder
House of Travel Taupo
My travel journey began with a solo adventure to New York at 21-and I've been hooked ever since! Fast forward a few years and I've had the absolute joy of exploring over 20 countries.
From wandering through ancient cities to tasting street food in hidden alleyways, I thrive on discovering new places, flavours, and cultures.
I found my way into the travel industry while searching for a career that truly lit me up-and I've never looked back.
Today, I get to turn wanderlust into reality by crafting unforgettable holidays for our local community and curious travellers from all over the world.
Planning a trip should feel exciting, not overwhelming. I'm here to take the stress out of travel and help you design a getaway that's as unique and joyful as you are.
Got ideas? Let's dream big and make it happen-together!
Melissa
Victoria Wales
House of Travel Christchurch City
Unmatched in her lifetime experience within the conference and incentive travel industry, Victoria heads-up HOT Events and truly delights in delivering fantastic results for our clients.
Making magic happen is Victoria's specialty. She understands what is required to deliver top experiences for delegates and incentive visitors. In high demand by both clients and colleagues alike, Victoria is keen to share her skills and works closely with the team to ensure every part of a programme, from concept delivery, is exceptional .
Although Victoria's hospitality management studies included chief training - it doesn't mean she does a lot of it now - preferring to hunt out the latest wining and dining options in town. She does bring this knowledge to the table when hosting groups on or off shore - ensuring the venue is the ideal place for the specific group's requirements.
"The best part of my job is year after year, hosting many of the same clients - I am challenged to make their experience better than the year before, and I love it!"
With her wicked sense of humour and her reputation as a people's person, Victoria is committed in delivering first class service to her clients.
Favourite place to host an event: Vietnam
Next place on the list to visit: Canada
Victoria
Monique McKechie
House of Travel Nelson
Hello there! You may be
asking, "Why choose me?" Truth be told, I've never been one to wax
lyrical about myself. But ask me about travel—my real passion—and I could chat
with you for hours, sharing experiences and hearing about yours!
I'm tremendously honored to have been part of the travel scene for 15 fabulous
years. This isn't just work for me; it's a love affair that defies reason. The
joy of facilitating someone's journey is unparalleled. Travel is the key to
personal growth, offering insights that enhance our souls and let us cherish
the beauty of our world.
I pride myself on my unwavering dedication to delivering exactly what you're
seeking. I live for those moments when clients find the joy and ease in travel,
and I’m dedicated to ensuring you get the holiday you’ve been dreaming of.
If you’re on the lookout for a travel consultant who truly cares and stands by
you throughout—and beyond—your journey, look no further. I'll make sure that
every detail aligns perfectly with your desires, from selecting the ideal ship
or tour to finding the right accommodation. Reach out, and let's brainstorm
your next adventure together.
Monique
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