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France

Vive la France!


Land of Croissants, Castles, and Champagne!

Vive la France! A patchwork of vineyards, villages, slick cities and a rich rural tapestry, days in France can be as diverse as laid-back beach visits, followed by upmarket Michelin meals. There’s really no right or wrong way to see this incredible country, just as long as you take regular stops for French bread, paté and a crisp glass of white (in other words do as the French do).

Whether you’re dreaming of exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux, wandering the streets of Paris, or relaxing on the French Riviera, chat to our France travel specialists and let’s find your perfect holiday today!

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Flight time.

The flight from Auckland to France takes about 24 hours with a stopover. It’s a lengthy trip, but you’ll be rewarded with incredible landscapes, cuisine, and culture.

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Best time to go.

The best time to visit France is from April to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to enjoy France’s charm without the summer heat.

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Time difference.

France is 10 hours behind New Zealand, so there will be a time difference to adjust to.

Our favourite things to do in France

Stroll through the Champs Elysees

The treasures of the Louvre, the Arc de Triomphe and the elegant Champs Elysées – all are essential Paris. But be prepared to immerse yourself into the local culture.

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People sitting overlooking view of Normandy

Visit the hidden gem of France

Head to Normandy and discover Mont Saint-Michel!

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Chambord

Visit Châteaux in France's Loire Valley

Pack a picnic today and discover the châteaux.

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Villa in the South of France

Live like a local

Press pause and catch your breath as you take the time to appreciate the simpler things in life.

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Family at cooking class

Cook Like a Parisian

Learn the tips and tricks of how to make the French delights!

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View of Eiffel Tower

Be your own skipper

Want to explore France in a fun, stress-free way with the kids?

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Boats sitting in St Tropez France

River cruising on the South of France

Set sail for the Mediterranean, indulging in French cuisine as you float past picture-perfect châteaux and lively towns.

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Mona Lisa painting

See the Mona Lisa Without the Crowds

Plan your perfect visit to the Louvre!

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93% of customers who book with House of Travel rate us 5/5

"Nicole was incredible at helping us figure out what was possible for us and our holiday (because we weren't sure when we initially came in) and her enthusiasm was amazing ??"

Paige

"I Firstly gave her incorrect information, and based on that she created a full itinerary for me only for me to change all details. She was so professional and friendly and within a few hours had rejigged everything which was quite perfect. She was brilliant!"

Fiona

"She listens well. She goes the extra mile with finding solutions and her experience is an asset with us being able to relax knowing she is reliable. She is our first go to for all international travel."

Paul

Meet our France specialists

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Jo McLaughlin

Jo McLaughlin

House of Travel Papamoa

Hi, I’m Jo and I joined the House of Travel Papamoa team in April 2022 not long after the borders opened and it’s fair to say it’s been crazy busy ever since!  No two days are the same and I thrive working in a fast-paced environment.   I have been working in Travel for around 10 years and started in January 2009 at Flight Centre Mt Maunganui and then moved to Auckland in 2011 to step into a management role to open their new retail store in Royal Oak.  I then moved back to the Tauranga area in early 2013 and opened the Flight Centre in Bayfair.  Opening two of Flight Centre’s stores gave me an incredible learning experience and insight into building a business and taking it to incredible heights!  I was also in charge of training multiple new to the industry staff members.  Before Travel I worked in banking for 4 and half years both in the retail branch and the business banking team. 

I have great attention to detail, excellent communication skills and am down to earth, friendly and approachable.  I love meeting new people and building relationships with my clients.  I love putting together itineraries and working closely with you to find your perfect fit.

I'm passionate about travel to Canada and the UK.  As I lived in Vancouver for 6 months and London for nearly 3 years on Working Holidays.  I’ve also spent 3 weeks in Egypt and over 6 weeks in South America.  I’ve travelled on my own to Asia and then jumped on an Intrepid Cambodia tour.  I have also done a 28 day Topdeck Camping trip around Europe and travelled independently using Eurail passes and the Eurostar. Along with many other exciting adventures!

My partner Duncan and I have two children, a son 10 and daughter 8 whom we took on holiday to Plantation Island in Fiji for a week.  We have also spent 2 weeks in Bali as a family in 2023.  Duncan and I also experienced a Viking cruise earlier this year which we absolutely loved! Our latest holiday was spending 5 nights in Fiji at the All Inclusive Naviti Resort.

We live locally in the Papamoa Hills and own a lifestyle block with cows, sheep, chickens, cats, and our gorgeous dog Millie.  We love the outdoors and taking advantage of the many wonderful things on offer here in the Tauranga area.  

I’d love to help you plan your next trip and look forward to hearing from you.  


Jo
Rhonda Bignell

Rhonda Bignell

House of Travel Ferrymead

Travel is a passion for me, I have been in travel for quite some time (too long to remember) from Corporate to Leisure. 

I aim to help people no matter what their plans are to create the best holiday experience possible. I enjoy being part of our travellers experience and making the whole process as easy as possible & to create fantastic memories that are special and will last a lifetime for themselves and their families.

I have travelled to some amazing places, but one stands out, the 6 months I spent working on Antarctica at McMurdo Station is a highlight & backpacking through India was a challenge.

From visiting the many aspects of Australia, Asia, South Africa & South America to basking in the sun on the Maldives or hitting the beaches and shopping in Thailand I would love to help you create some new stories & memories. I love active holidays and have followed the Moto GP / Formula 1 and the Isle of Man TT was particularly exciting. Followed by walking up on Mt Kinabalu was another eventful trip.

However, every great adventure starts with a plan, and I would be honoured to help you with that plan, whether you take the road less travelled or one of the many roads that lead to Rome.

I look forward to helping you to create more wonderful stories and memories in the coming years.

Rhonda

Eilish Colvin

Eilish Colvin

House of Travel Te Awamutu

Hi, I'm Eilish – I have a love for exploring the world, with a soft spot for Europe, Bali and youth travel.

I love putting together smooth, personalised travel plans, using my organisational skills and fun, bubbly personality. Helping people turn their dream holidays into reality, making sure every detail is just right.

In 2024, I was proud to be named a Contiki Champ, which was a personal accomplishment with a brand I have tried and tested and love myself.

Whether it’s a group getaway or a solo journey, my goal is to help people discover new destinations, create lasting memories, and feel confident while exploring the world.


Eilish
Catherine Johnson

Catherine Johnson

House of Travel Ashburton

Travel is my passion and to be able to share this with others is the best part of my job!

I love all aspects of travel-adventure, food, culture, relaxation and most importantly making life long memories.

Whether you're looking for a thrill-seeking adventure or a peaceful island escape, I can’t wait to help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

Catherine

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