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Smell the cherry blossoms in Japan

Japan

Japan’s pastel pink cherry blossoms smell as good as they look. While the trees seldom bear fruit, the blossom flourishes every spring, and with it comes an intoxicating floral scent.

The Japanese celebrate Sakura (cherry blossom) with Hanami, literally “flower viewing” celebrations which take place in March and April.

Locals organise flower appreciation picnics under the blooms, sitting beneath the bubble gum petals and sipping on ‘Sakura’ Pepsi. For a limited time, even the cola’s pink!

“You have to try the Starbucks sakura-themed drinks - they are an acquired taste but has to be done!”

Connect with a Japan specialist

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Shelley Rich

House of Travel Mount Maunganui

I have been a part of the travel industry for over 30 years and still love it!

I love to travel and I often joke with my clients that I live vicariously through them.

Planning the perfect holiday for my clients fills me with joy. I take pride in what I do and love sharing my passion of travel.

Many of my clients have become life long friends.

Shelley

Alicia Sutton

House of Travel Hamilton City

As an experienced travel consultant with over 9 years in the industry, I bring a wealth of expertise and a genuine passion for exploring the world. My career has been shaped by a commitment to helping others create unforgettable journeys, fueled by my own love for adventure.

In early 2024, I achieved a lifelong dream by traveling to Antarctica—a testament to my adventurous spirit and firsthand knowledge of unique, bucket-list destinations. Whether you're seeking a serene retreat, a cultural immersion, or an epic expedition, my global insights and personalised approach ensure every journey is as inspiring as it is seamless.

Our lives are defined by experience, when we travel we open up an array of new experiences to be had. It’s a privilege to have the opportunity to assist others with their own leisure holidays or bucket list adventures.

Alicia

Suzanne Andrews

House of Travel The Square

I've travelled extensively all over the world and I now want to make your travel dreams come true!

I've worked in the travel industry for many years and I now want to share my experience and passion for travelling with you.

Suzanne

Lauren Stickings

House of Travel Hornby

After joining the travel industry back in 2017 I very quickly came to realise it was the dream job I had been searching for!

In loving what you do every day I can honestly say I love it more now than I did when I started. I love going the extra mile and my clients know that they are in safe hands and will receive a stress-free travel experience with me taking care of every detail in the background. I am highly motivated, reliable and pride myself on my many loyal, repeat clients.

With a huge passion and love for everything travel. Everyday I am eager to upskill on what I know for the benefit of my clients' and my own journeys across the globe.

I specialize in many destinations throughout the world especially my love for Dubai and the middle East. Whether it be for leisure travel, business groups, Cruise and more! It's with this yearning desire that I have to see the world and with my discerning taste for accommodations, you can guarantee you'll have a diverse "out of the ordinary" special experience.

I can't wait to work with you, to turn all your travel plans into a reality - Your most welcome to give me a call or flick me an email if you would like to make an appointment to meet me to have a chat about all your wonderful plans. I can't wait to meet you!

Lauren