JUNE 2016
The Science of Wanderlust WHY DO WE CRAVE ESCAPE?
Snow Heaven
THE BIG WHITE YONDER OF NORTH AMERICA
Travel Like a Pro
JET LAG CURES EVERY TRAVELLER SHOULD KNOW
FROM THE CITY OF SAILS DIRECT TO THE CITY OF STARS. Taking off in June 2016.
Fly Auckland to Los Angeles direct with American Airlines, in partnership with Qantas. Subject to regulatory approval.
HOUSE OF TRAVEL CONTRIBUTORS Editor JODINE SMALL Writers ANNA SARJEANT, TOM RICKETTS & GEORGIA PELL-JOHNSON Designer SARAH LOUGHRAN Brand PAULA SUNDIN Australia & South Pacific RACHEL MANCINI North America GABRIELLE BROWN Asia & Touring PAULA WATSON UK & Europe ANNE GRAHAM South America SHELLEY ADKINS Printer WEBSTAR Cover Destination KALGOORLIE SALT LAKES, WESTERN AUSTRALIA TERMS AND CONDITIONS GENERAL CONDITIONS: Prices are correct as at 30 May 2016 – costs may vary due to subsequent tax surcharge increases, currency exchange rates and/or unforeseen circumstances. Valid for new bookings only as specified or sold out. For travel commenced and completed as specified. Min/max stays apply. Prices are per person share twin in NZ dollars subject to availability at time of booking, based on payment by cash or cheque. Booking deposits and payment requirements may apply. Bedding configurations may vary. Credit card fees will apply. Some closeouts apply. For travel outside the dates specified, ask your local House of Travel consultant. Amendment and cancellation fees apply. Accommodation ratings are based on House of Travel ratings and are a guide only to the overall quality of the property. Flights are additional unless specified otherwise. Ask us about the best available flights to your chosen destination. Further terms and conditions may apply. See www. houseoftravel.co.nz/inspire for more details. WHAT TO WEAR ON THE SLOPES: Prices are correct as at 30 May 2016. – costs may vary due to subsequent tax surcharge increases, currency exchange rates and/or unforeseen circumstances. POMPOM OFFER: Use the discount code POMPOM at checkout to receive 15% off the total price of your order. To be used online only. Not valid in-store. Shop at www.pompomnz.com. Valid for 30 days only, until Saturday 2nd July 2016. Not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Further terms and conditions may apply.
Contents
Feature
Snow Heaven
4 The Science of Wanderlust 6 How Travel Changes Us
18 The Big White Yonder of North America 20 What to Wear on the Slopes
Where the Journey Takes You 10 11 12 14 16
What Travelling with Friends Can Teach You The Alice and Angie Story Going Solo: Recharge or Reinvent Keep Calm and Holiday with the Kids Why the Over 50s are Putting Younger Travellers to Shame
Improve Your Bucket List 22 23 24 25 26
Escape to the Deep Experience Festivals for Free Find Freedom Views to Wake Up To Discover Coffee and Cocoa
Travel Like a Pro 28 Onefinestay 30 Airbus vs Boeing 32 Top 10 Travel Hacks 34 Jet Lag Cures Every Traveller Should Know
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 3
The Science of
Why Do We Crave Escape? Take a look at this beautiful image of a beach. Are you thinking it would look charming as your desktop background? Or does it evoke an overwhelming desire to be part of it? If it's the latter, you may have the DRD4 gene. DR what now? DRD4 is a gene that helps regulate our dopamine, the brain-based chemical responsible for human pleasure and reward. The reason why you're a serial traveller may be because a variant of this gene, known as DRD4-7R, has been linked to higher levels of curiosity and restlessness. Bearers of the chromosome, nicknamed the ‘wanderlust gene’ tend to crave change and adventure, a hunger to explore and a compulsion to travel. Of course you can’t contribute the complexity of human curiosity to one single gene. Factors such as personality, upbringing and behaviour also enrich (or extinguish) a raw thirst for exploration, but the fundamental factor in the entire wanderlust argument is that some people are just born to travel, and it's an impulse that correlates directly to your biology. The wanderlust gene, which is also connected to gambling and addiction due to its powerful ‘urge’ and 'need' characteristics, could also explain why the gene carriers have a tendency to travel. Why? Because ultimately, gratifying this 'need' for travel is fulfilling. And fulfilment is a key ingredient for long lasting happiness. Which brings us nicely to… The pursuit of happiness Doctor Thomas Gilovich, a psychology professor at Cornell University New York, has done extensive research on the correlation between experiential purchases and happiness. He argues that lasting contentment is linked to travel, outdoor activities, new skills and visiting exhibitions, rather than material possessions. It’s not so much that you can’t love your car as much as you love a good holiday, but the car will always remain separate to your existence, whereas a holiday leaves a mark. To understand where Gilovich is coming
from, consider these two statements: “Hey darling, remember when we cruised Alaska and stayed up until 4am watching the Northern Lights?” or "Hey darling, remember when we took the Mazda to Countdown and bought a kumquat?" We could be wrong, but we doubt the latter is uttered all that often. According to Gilovich, we 'adapt' to material possessions, whereas experiences become part of our identity. In other words, material things mould into our daily, dare we say, mundane routines, but exceptional memories are ingrained into our being. In Gilovich’s words, “We buy things to make us happy, and we succeed, but only for a little while. New things are exciting to us at first, but then we adapt to them.” They become the norm. To the contrary, holidays feel unique, and that's why we reminisce about them. Travel is the best medicine Funny then, that even with scientific proof finding a link between travel and happiness, we still don’t take our holidays. Seven million leave days in New Zealand are not taken every single year. That means the majority of us are consciously turning down our days off. Yet many of us are guilty of saying such things as “I wish the weekend was longer” and “Why is it Monday again so soon?” We should all value the worth of travel because holidays keep us healthy. But don’t take our word for it, take the US Travel Association’s. They’ve spent a good few years (and a casual few million dollars) proving it. In 2013, they released results from a travel campaign called The Travel Effect, which stated that travel decreased depression, lessened stress, promoted greater productivity and heightened morale within the work force. President and CEO Roger Dow summarised the
findings by explaining “travel has a positive effect on health, relationships, business performance and the well-being of communities." A year later, Expedia's 2014 Vacation Deprivation® study, which monitors holidaying habits among 7,855 employed adults across 24 countries in Asia-Pacific, Europe, North America and South America, found that when presented with a list of ‘happiness drivers’, including "Being on Vacation" and "Finding Money You Thought You Lost" to "Birthdays," taking a holiday was listed first or second by 66% of participants. The truth is inescapable: Holidays are beneficial. And if all the above got a little bit mumbo-jumbo for you, we’ve broken it down into five easy-to-digest pointers: 5 ways holidays are good for you: Mood enhancing: Due to increased relaxation, excitement and optimism. Increased opportunities: Especially for learning new skills through travel-related experiences. Relationship strengthening: From forming friendships to strengthening partnerships and extending time spent with the family. Lifelong memories: Made through purposeful travel experiences. Dream fulfilling: Ticking off bucket list goals results in a feel-good sense of accomplishment. In conclusion, if you're crazy about maps, curious about cultures and always compelled to find the road less travelled, you’re not alone. You, like many, were probably born with the wanderlust gene. Lucky you. By giving into the urge to travel, you’re already on a one-way path to contentment. Embrace your lust for wandering, live long, healthy and prosperous. Happy travels!
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 5
How Travel Changes Us Time and time again we are told that travel promotes personal growth. But what is it about global exploration that makes it so fruitful? And in turn, so phenomenal it changes people?
Increased happiness On the most simplistic level, a cocktail from the poolside bar is going to release more feel-good endorphins than a coffee slurped at your desk. Why? Because when we escape from the place we spend most of our time, the mind relaxes. We don’t necessarily forget about bills, school runs and bad TV, but by putting some distance between ourselves and our everyday routine, we remove the immediacy of mundane tasks. Greater learning From world history to language, customs, culture and cuisine, many of us possess an insatiable curiosity about our planet and its people. In a world where everything is accessible, why read the book when you have the opportunity to physically experience it? Education abounds, and you don’t have to live in a Tibetan hilltop monastery to get learned; sit next to a local on your next flight to anywhere and you’ll probably arrive more knowledgeable than the guide book. Travel more, learn more. Plus you’ll absolutely nail the pub quiz. Lifestyle changes Why is it so many people return from Asia wearing
❝
Because when we escape from the place we spend most of our time, the mind relaxes. elephant printed harem pants? We doubt it’s because they’re super flattering on the thighs. It’s because we all get wrapped up in the cultures we experience. Elephant pants look mighty fine amidst dusty streets, Hindu temples and a choking smog, and you embrace it all, because when something is different and exotic, or even abnormal, it’s also appealing. You don’t simply want to witness it as a bystander, you want to live it; eat, sleep and breathe it.
Discomfort Fight or flight, it’s human nature. Ever booked that bucket-list trip and once imminent, had an overwhelming desire to cancel and go to the beach instead? Anything unfamiliar is unbelievably scary. Whether you’re travelling solo for the first time, changing the annual family holiday or flying from the first world into the third, stepping out of your
Advice to my 20 Year-old Self If you were 20 again and about to leave on your big overseas trip, what advice would you give yourself?
S
o you’re about to embark on your OE. You’ve bought your ticket and packed your bag, complete with capri pants that you think are really “sick” – they’re not. And stop saying sick. People say you’re going to ‘find yourself’, that enlightenment exists at the end of a 12 month global gallivant. You won’t and it doesn’t, but it will
6 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 1 6 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
change you. The biggest thing you’re going to learn is that happiness is found in simplicity. Right now you think you’re going to return home the well-travelled big shot, bag yourself an executive job, earn top dollar, drive a Bugatti and live in a mansion. You’ll be a real big deal. Sorry mate, none of that happens. You’re going to come back humble
comfort zone is daunting. The good news is, it’s when we are uncomfortable that we grow the most. Think of it like this, the unfamiliar is only unfamiliar until you face it, so seek the bigger risks and you’ll reap the biggest rewards. The mind grows Writer Jonah Lehrer argues that “distance and difference are the secret tonic of creativity.” If you’ve ever noticed how head-restless you get on holiday, you’ll know exactly what he means. Ordinarily, the everyday banality of life suppresses our creativity, but one week into your trip (relaxed and stress-free) your noggin reboots and your creative spark explodes like a proverbial brain bomb. Which is why we all come home with exciting to-do lists for the future; nothing seems impossible. And what’s more refreshing than that?
- and smarter for it. After seeing how huge the world really is and all the situations that people have to put up with, as well as the outstanding beauty that exists amongst people, places and even poverty, you’ll be content to have the simplest of things; friends, family and passions. Which it turns out, includes photography, not Bugattis. (It’s also where you’ll find a great career. Oh and you drive a Mazda). Stop worrying about the dumb stuff, it’s all insignificant. And go speak to the girl standing at the bar in Florence, we promise it works out well. Just ask your wife. - Chris Jamieson
8 IN S P I R E J U N E 20 1 6 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
Where the Journey Takes You Physically and metaphorically. What do we learn when we travel with friends, family or when roaming alone? And what can we learn from globetrotters still travelling in their golden years? WHAT TRAVELLING WITH FRIENDS CAN TEACH YOU THE ALICE AND ANGIE STORY GOING SOLO: RECHARGE OR REINVENT KEEP CALM AND HOLIDAY WITH THE KIDS WHY THE OVER 50S ARE PUTTING YOUNGER TRAVELLERS TO SHAME
W H E R E T H E J O U R N E Y TA KE S YO U
What Travelling with Friends Can Teach You Travelling with a friend won’t solely make you proficient in division; notably how to split everything by two, it’ll teach you a whole new bag of wisdoms. No man is an island The huntsman crawls from beneath the door handle like he’s been anticipating your arrival for days, but before he gets chance to tip his hat and step aside, you’ve run screaming, crying (and possibly excreting) in a backwards direction. Cue travel companion with zero fear of eight-legged insects, who gently swats the treacherous animal away. Danger averted, it becomes painfully clear that no man (or woman) is an island; everyone relies on another. And for every spider they remove for you, the gesture is repaid when you ease them of their own jitters and trepidations. Do things differently Like the first time you see someone stacking the dishwasher differently to yourself and it BLOWS. YOUR. MIND. Travelling with others can really open your eyes. From the food court lover who discovers al fresco simply because his mate bought a baguette and found a bench, to the anti-historian who gets dragged to Rijksmuseum and then dragged back out… Six hours later and crying for more. Following the path of others, and doing something different in the process, is often enlightening. Don’t be afraid to say yes It’s one of those rare occasions when FOMO proves beneficial; your partner in travel is an adrenaline-junkie, or shark enthusiast, or die-hard vegan
with Thai ancestry. Next minute you’re skydiving from 15,000 feet, swimming amidst great whites or gorging on bean curd with Buddhist monks. Would you have picked any one of these activities yourself? Perhaps not. But your friend did and when they asked if you’d tag along, you found yourself saying yes. Patience is a virtue You, my friend, are irritating. But fear not because we all are. And that includes your BFF too. Whether they snore, slurp or sigh too much; laugh too loudly, talk too quietly or stop every second for a selfie, travel with anyone other than yourself and you’ll even find their breathing an aggravation. The key is to remain patient, ignore their bad habits and focus on the positives, because your companion is likely finding you irksome too. A problem shared is a problem halved Lost tickets, missed planes and forgotten luggage, problems are solved in twice the time when you have two heads mulling it over. And when faced with unfamiliar surroundings it’s always reassuring to know someone has your back, someone you can completely trust. Travel’s funniest (dare we say fondest memories) are often a result of a holiday mishap. Because when the chips are down and all you have is one another, laughing at the absurdity is really the only solution.
W H E R E T H E J O U R N E Y TA KE S YO U
The Alice and Angie Story Alice Jakowitsch and Angie Gaebler know better than anyone that good company equals great travel. These two best friends have been bouncing around together since they were tots. We followed the pair to Vietnam to capture how friendships are bonded by travel and here, Alice explains why she loves to get away with her soul sister. What made you first decide to travel with one another? We’ve known each other for our whole lives but have not lived in the same city since we were in our early 20s. Angie recently moved back from the UK and we were both so busy just working, eating and sleeping that we decided a trip together would be a great chance to reconnect, and also to have a great adventure.
in the boat while we floated through caves beneath the mountain ranges. I tried to sit back up after we got out from the caves and almost fell out of the boat, we laughed so hard and the woman rowing our boat was trying so hard not to laugh and to stay professional but she finally erupted into fits of laughter. It was a pretty hilarious moment to share.
What’s your best travel memory together? With Angie there is laughter every damn day, we had an incredible time in a village where we got ‘snowed in’ by animals and laughed until we cried. We have a similar sense of humour so every day is funny. We also met a Brazilian man in Vietnam who taught us some Brazilian dance moves, now that was fun!
What things are made easier by travelling as a pair? It’s great having someone to bounce ideas about where to go and what to do, it also means getting outside of your comfort zone as you’ve got someone who has your back.
What do you most admire about Angie? Angie is such a beautiful soul. She was going through a really raw and tough situation while we were travelling and her vulnerability, openness and deeply reflective
What have you learnt since travelling with someone else? I’ve learnt to keep challenging myself to live life outside my comfort zone and that my love for travel and experiencing new cultures and meeting new people is something
There's always someone to wake you up when you fall asleep at the airport waiting for your connecting flight.
journey during the trip was an inspiring rediscovery to be a part of.
to keep prioritising. Since the trip I’ve made some lifestyle changes in line with these values and I am already planning my next trip.
What’s the greatest thing about travelling with a friend? One of the most amazing parts of travelling with a friend is making memories together that you can talk about for years to come – also the confidence and sense of adventure that comes from being in a new place and experiencing new things with someone you love. And a second wardrobe to utilise when you’ve worn all your own clothes!
How have you changed since your first trip together? I think this latest trip to Vietnam has really deepened our friendship. We have always been like non-biological family but this was a real connection as fully fledged soul sisters. We can’t wait for our next adventure together. The question is, where to next?
What’s your favourite story so far from travelling with Angie? We had an absolutely beautiful dawn boat trip in Ninh Binh during our Vietnam trip and we were lying back
Any travelling tips for duo travel? Open communication and making sure you both get to make some of the decisions. We had a travel kitty that we both put money into and that paid for food and travel et cetera. Also having your own space when you need it is a must and means you can recharge for the day ahead.
Where would you most like to go with Angie, and why? Maybe Mallorca to visit Angie in a couple of month's time. I’d also love to take a trip around South America from Mexico all the way to Argentina. The food, the music and the people would be an amazing adventure. I’d love to climb Mt Kilimanjaro too, or trek to Everest Base Camp in Nepal. It would be great to have the moral support of a friend to meet that challenge. Thanks Alice. If that doesn’t make you want to quit your job, grab your BFF and buy a ticket around the world, we don’t know what will.
H OUS E O F T R AV E L
| I N S P I R E J UN E 20 16 11
W H E R E T H E J O U R N E Y TA KE S YO U
Going Solo: Recharge or Reinvent Take the challenge and travel solo. Because once you remove the fear, all you have is freedom.
Recharging in New South Wales Is it just me, or is 2016 just sliding out from under us? Summer’s a distant memory, the temperature has dropped and motivation is lacking. It’s time to escape the daily grind and recharge those batteries. Just a three hour(ish) flight from New Zealand - the perfect distance for that much needed weekend away - Sydney awaits. Great for foodies, shopaholics and culture buffs, this buzzy, beachside city has everything you could want from an urban escape. But have you considered what else New South Wales has to offer? Possibly not. So sit back, put your feet up and let me convince you why it’s time to venture out past suburbia and into Sydney’s playground. Up past the Northern Beaches you’ll be able to see the true natural beauty of this state. Pit stop at the Australian Reptile Park and encounter the amazing creatures that call Australia home. Stroke the fluffiest koalas, have a staring contest with Elvis the croc and hand feed the friendliest kangaroos. The Hunter Valley, a diverse and rich wine region best known for its exquisite wining, dining and indulging, offers so much more than a fine glass of Shiraz. This striking valley boasts breath-taking views and is not to be missed - whether you choose to experience it by bicycle, helicopter, hot air balloon, Segway, or simply by foot. And if you’re really keen to walk your way to revitalisation, explore the countless
bushwalking trails set amongst the dramatic scenery of the Blue Mountains. Feel more at home on the coast? Spanning over 2,000km along the south east, New South Wales is far from short of picturesque beaches. Port Stephens harbour is twice the size of Sydney’s and is best observed from Gan Gan Lookout. Head here for panoramic views as far north as Hawks Nest and then spend a few idles hours at Shoal Bay. Renowned for its sheltered bays, crystal clear water and golden sands; take a book, close yourself off from the world and spend a few selfish hours soaking up the serenity. If you’re an activity-seeker, expose yourself to Australia’s marine life and embark on a dolphin and whale spotting cruise from Nelson Bay. When they put the ‘boom net’ out, grab your togs and climb on in, you’ll thank me for recommending such a rush! If wave worshipping is more your thing, then head up to Byron Bay and unleash your inner hippie. With everything you’d expect from a surfer town, set amidst elegant beaches and lush green hinterland (plus the added bonus of a potential Chris Hemsworth sighting) it’s a must visit. Set your alarm for an hour or two earlier than usual and catch the sun rise over the horizon. It’s the tranquil experience guaranteed to make you feel like you’ve had that much needed break.
PHOTO: Georgia Pell-Johnson, House of Travel Content Specialist
NE ED SOME HELP PER F ECT IN G YOU R SO LO T RAV E L P L A NS? BRI NG YOU R I D E AS TO U S A ND WE' L L HEL P YOU SORT IT. VIS IT YOUR LOCA L H OT STO RE , CA L L U S O N 08 00 7 1 3 7 1 5 O R CH ECK OU T W W W.HOT.C O.N Z
Reinvention at Base Camp Reinvent: ‘To change (something) so much that it appears to be entirely new.’ Like that time the girl with a hatred for snow embarked on a trip to the Himalayas and came back a born-again yeti.
I don’t like snow, I never have, so it does beg the question as to why I’m now standing shin-deep in the stuff. At 4.30 in the morning, with a scowl on my face and a Snickers in my hand. A Snickers? Yes. We’ll get back to that. Back against the wind, there’s an icy snow drift assaulting my cheeks and I’m stomping my boot into the ground like a raging bull. To say I’m not happy is an understatement. It’s day 11 of the Everest Base Camp trek and the day after we made it all the way to Base Camp itself. Now we’re midway climbing Kala Patthar, five thousand (and something) metres high, wind-lashed, wrapped in eight thermal layers and still freezing. Did I mention it’s four – expletive – thirty am? When I say 'we' I’m talking about myself and my guide, Furba, whose Snickers I’m now holding because I told him (at roughly 5200m) that I was hungry. Which was an outrageous statement considering I’ve had zero appetite for three solid days now. That’s the altitude. I feel bad for snatching a Sherpa’s Snickers, but simultaneously would like to throw it at the back of his head; his description of a "morning walk to see sunrise" has been
Kit List
THE ESSENTIAL TEN There are many more items you should take, but neglect any one of these at your own risk.
seriously downplayed. Two hours later, Snickers now stuck to my glove, I’m still zig-zagging my way to the seemingly unreachable summit. The sun has been ascending rapidly, casting a majestic orange glow over the mountains to our right, including Mt Everest, which is looking so darn beautiful even I manage to crack a smile. Okay Furba, now I see why you pulled me out of my contented slumber this morning. Prayer flags and jubilations, I make it to the top sometime around 7am. By 9am I’m eating hard boiled eggs at the lodge, full of pride and a deep satisfaction that I just heaved my body 5555 metres above sea level, and when you consider Everest is only 8,848 metres, I’ve pretty much climbed the world’s highest mountain. Pretty much. Incidentally, three days later, while perusing a giant model replica of the Sagarmáthá National Park and the entire collection of 27 Himalayan Mountains, I casually, albeit a little cockily, ask Furba which one we 'conquered'. Expecting him to indicate something monumental amidst the great white peaks laid before us, he simply points to a tiny grey mound and nods.
1. Wet wipes, wet wipes & more wet wipes
4. Sunscreen
2. Hydration pack & water purification tablets
5. Headband
Avoid an upset stomach.
Protects the back of your neck from wind chill.
3. Hand sanitizer
6. Ski buff
This is how you’re showering.
All day, everyday.
Sun and snow. Enough said.
It gets dusty!
PHOTO: Anna Sarjeant, House of Travel Content Specialist
7. First aid kit
Because, blisters.
8. Sunglasses
10. Layers
Thermals & fleece jackets. It ain’t pretty but it’s practical.
Two pairs because you will lose one.
9. Ziplock bags
For snacks & to waterproof the contents of your daypack.
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 13
W H E R E T H E J O U R N E Y TA KE S YO U
Keep Calm and Holiday with the Kids Rachel O'Malley and her family of five, including husband Ryan and three kids aged seven, nine and 11, love to travel together. So much so they’re a dabhand at family getaways. We decided to document their most recent trip to the Gold Coast, to see exactly what makes a family holiday flow. Booking the holiday How do you choose a holiday that you know will be enjoyed by all family members? Since we all surf and love adventures we often look to more interesting exotic locations that have a mix of surfing, different cultures, easy travel, great accommodation and the ocean. The beach is always an easy way to ensure the kids will have fun, know where we (their parents) are and provide time for us all to relax. What key considerations do you take into account for a family getaway? We often look for a spot where travel is easy and not too time consuming, especially if it's just for the week, you don't want to spend the entire time adjusting to a new time zone. We need somewhere relaxed so we can make the most of hanging out together as a family.
in the local area. Carol is great at this point because she usually gets us up to speed with key places for eating and shopping. Finally, I organise some fun games and take snacks to occupy kids on the flight. What top items do you always buy before a family holiday? Sunscreen, medical kit, drawing pad and pens for the kids and a decent mozzie repellant. When the children were very little I used to take a little mosquito net to put over their cot. We also take a trip to the library for any new books we want to read. Do you find it necessary to plan for every eventuality when you have children in tow? No, but we always make sure we have a great medical kit. Nowadays you can research anything you need to know before you go, or even while you're there.
How do you pick the right accommodation? For us, somewhere that is affordable - a kitchen always makes it easier to cook meals together and self-catering makes it more affordable and relaxed. Having a pool for the kids is also high on the list. We have a great consultant at House of Travel, Carol, who knows location is important to us. Whether that's on the beach or somewhere for views and tranquility, Carol puts us where we need to be.
Transfers, airports & planes What’s your strategy for a stress-free airport check-in? Arrive early and get one adult to check-in while the other looks after the kids. Don't take too many bags and book airport parking ahead of your trip. It's a little more expensive but it saves on hassle. Another great tip is to create a scavenger hunt in the airport lounge, with things the kids have to mark off a list.
Pre-travel considerations What key things do you do to prepare for a family getaway? We triple check medical suggestions and buy things we need that might not be available to purchase once there, such as sports equipment. I check everyone's passports and buy travel insurance. Before we leave, I check what’s happening
How do you keep your kids entertained on long plane journeys? We don't tend to take electronic devices on-board but I always arm the kids with a carry-on bag crammed with healthy snacks, card games, reading book, drawing book and pens. Hopefully there's also a decent movie on the plane!
Carol Sutton co-owner of five HOT stores throughout the Waikato. PHOTO: Noah 11, Ari 9, Matai 7
Have you learnt any travel hacks for a problem free journey? Make a pact with your kids and husband that you won't lose your cool when things go wrong, because things always do! Split the responsibilities: keep all the stuff that is most important in one travel bag that only one person keeps ahold of, while the other only deals with the passports, papers and documents. On holiday What are the main challenges you face when holidaying as a family? The biggest challenge is to remain cool under pressure. Keep calm and don't turn anything into a drama. How do you resolve stressful issues? Often issues can be resolved even if it isn't the best or optimal outcome. Laughing through the things that go wrong can make the most lasting memories for your kids. It can be beneficial to leave one parent to sort out the problem while the other one takes the children to do something fun. Kids can make the drama worse if they are being annoying. How do you ensure you enjoy the holiday as much as your children? By picking places to enjoy time together as a family. In the past, Carol has highlighted destinations where we can plan activities together but also where the kids can explore safely. Once there, we'll book a babysitter and go out for dinner a couple of times. We also allocate some solo-time; my husband will go surfing whereas I'll go paddleboarding while the other watches the kids. We always ensure there's an equal balance between activity and chilling out.
W H E R E T H E J O U R N E Y TA KE S YO U
Why the Over 50s are Putting Younger Travellers to Shame Our planet isn't solely a playground for the young. With a growing appetite for year-round adventure, older globetrotters now account for over half the holiday market.
"Hey cutie, swing over here and join us for lunch,” says Steve, in his thick Ohio accent, egged on by his best mate, John. This is not a pick-up line. Steve, like John, is 72 years of age. Our paths keep crossing as we traverse the perilous road to Everest Base Camp. I’m half their age, arguably half as fit and only 20% as zealous. As I learn of their 40 year friendship and mutual passion for hiking and travel, my eyes wide and mouth ajar, I’m in absolute awe. Boisterous Americans aside, baby boomers, and those born between 1946 and 1964, comprise over 13% of New Zealand's population, estimated to increase to 23% by 2051.1 With people now living longer and staying healthy, the number of retirees taking trips is also on the rise. Are travellers in their twilight years now rocking this travel thing more than their youthful counterparts? Oh you bet! They don’t take no for an answer They hoo-hah the preconception that you need to be fit, healthy and under 50 to travel. Health helps and fitness is a bonus, but youth is irrelevant. Gastro bugs don’t discriminate - young, old or otherwise. According to The Ministry of Social Development, by 2051 “baby boomers will be healthier, better educated and have more spending power than any other generation reaching 65 in New Zealand’s history.” Tummy bug, what tummy bug? They’re fearless When two 70-year old men can look at an itinerary for a 120km round-trip to the Himalayas and still jump at the opportunity, you have to admire their enthusiasm. In 1999 “roughly one-third of New Zealanders aged 65-69 years took a short trip overseas”2 with trends including “shorter itineraries, exotic locations with modern amenities, multigenerational travel, emphasis on local colour, and customised travel options.”3 But also sensible Granted, white water rafting and sky diving are (more or less) activities for the young. Even the young at heart but long in the tooth have to be cautious sometimes. Does that deter them from hiking mountains or riding camels? Hell no. River Valley, an NZ company specialising in Rangitikei REFERENCES The Business of Ageing, Ministry of Social Development, 2011, Wellington. 2 Population Ageing in New Zealand, Statistics New Zealand, 2000, page 7. 3 Older Baby Bloomers Positive Finances, Frank Newport and Joy Wilke, Gallup, 2013. 4 www.rivervalley.co.nz/adventure-boomers5 5 www.listener.co.nz/current-affairs/baby-boomers-flush-but-forgotten 6 www.accesstourismnz.org.nz/tag/baby-boomers/page/2/ 7 www.stats.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/people_and_ communities/older_people/pop-ageing-in-nz.aspx
District adventures, write in their blog that although retirees are late starters in the outdoor adventure segment, “by their sheer number and spending power, the Beach Boy Generation find that they too can share in the magic of following the paths less travelled.” 4 And wise too They’re wise with things you’re deluded about when you’re young and carefree, such as money. Budgets aren’t something shrugged off quite so readily and they pre-empt unforeseen expenses instead. Our wise elders don’t need Lonely Planet to highlight the benefits of spending less and saving more, but they do tend to shell out on the things they consider important, including travel. Not something the industries have neglected to notice: “Products and services – such as travel, cars and financial services – are actively targeted at 50-plus consumers.”5 They’re flashpackers, not backpackers John wasn’t too keen on the long drop toilet and he’d often emerge declaring he’d just discovered the fourth world, but he’d also ensure his bed had an electric blanket and he tripled his porters to carry more creature comforts than most trekkers. This isn’t uncommon, in the USA “Americans aged 50+ account for 80% of all luxury travel spending.”6 In New Zealand also, baby boomers are by and large financially able to spend an extra dollar on tourism’s lesser-known luxuries. And man, they’re clued up ‘Winging-it’ tends to be a concept favoured by the youthful, because older generations know it’s far from foolproof. John and Steve were pro-research, with the attitude that the more you know, the more you can prepare for every eventuality. In 2016, the generation that grew up with The Beatles on vinyl are increasingly technologically savvy. According to a survey commissioned by the website GrownUps New Zealand, “56% use the internet to research travel destinations and book overseas holidays.”7 Baby boomer travellers are in the know and on the go.
1
1 6 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
W E H AV E O PT I O NS W H I CH W E CAN C USTOM ISE TO SUIT YOUR N EEDS, NO M AT T E R H OW M A NY CAN DL ES AR E ON YOUR BIRTHDAY CAK E. V I S I T YOU R LO CA L H OT STO RE , CA L L U S O N 08 00 7 13 7 15 OR C HEC K OUT WWW.HOT.C O.N Z
Snow Heaven Lured by the promise of outstanding pistes and jaw dropping backdrops, the snow in North America is irresistible. We reveal how the USA and Canada are championing the ski scene. THE BIG WHITE YONDER OF NORTH AMERICA WHAT TO WEAR ON THE SLOPES
S N OW H E AV E N
The Big White Yonder of North America Light powdery snow, immaculately groomed pistes and virtually non-existent lift queues. Sounds awful, doesn’t it? No, we don’t think so either.
Canada Why we love Canada Resorts, such as Banff, set in National Parks right in the heart of Canada’s history and wildlife, offer jaw dropping backdrops to complement your slope-side selfies. It’s no wonder so many Kiwi families are grabbing their bobble hats and jetting off to North America for a ski holiday. For those who like to stay on piste, Canada’s tree lined slopes are groomed to perfection so you can whizz down the mountain on soft fluffy snow. It may pay to be prepared for bitterly cold temperatures as those polar winds can get a little chilly, particularly as you head further north and into Canada. When to go The peak season stretches from January to late March. Perks are similar to the USA; great value in January, heaviest snowfall in February and beautiful springtime scenery throughout March. Families with very small children should be aware that Canada gets cold. Very, very cold. Top of the range ski gear aside, little fingers don’t tend to like really severe temperatures.
Getting there It’s no secret that any flight to North America is a little lengthy, which is never fun with tiny tots in tow, but Whistler Blackcomb in Canada is, surprisingly, one of the fastest resorts to get to in the Northern Hemisphere. With direct flights from Auckland to Vancouver and just a 2.5 hour transfer from the airport you’ll be there in a flash… sort of. What’s trending? With superb tuition for all ages and abilities, Canada is a brilliant place to take the little’uns for beginners snowsports. The country’s family friendly resorts, such as Big White, Silver Star, Sun Peaks and Whistler Blackcomb have great kids clubs and ‘stay and ski for free’ programmes for children under 12. Come nightfall, once they’re tucked up in bed, you’ll be able to enjoy an après ski session of your own. Take advantage of Canada’s impressive ski in, ski out accommodation, which allows you to put your skis on at the front door and be on the snow within minutes; no buses, no hassle. Thank you Canada!
More than just a ski resort Snowmobiling, dog sledding, sleigh rides, snow tubing, ice skating, bars, restaurants, shopping... you get the jist. With so many purpose-built resorts across Canada we guarantee that you can keep the whole family entertained from dawn ‘til dusk. What seals the deal? Any NZ season pass holder can ski for free at Panorama Ski Resort. Couple that with a great exchange rate and you’ll have more dough in your pocket for multiple maple syrup pancakes. The verdict Even non-skiers know that Canada's snow record is faultless. The winter is seemingly endless and so are the opportunities to ski, board and sled. The big Canadian resorts are suited for every ability, but they excel when it comes to accommodating children. With kids' camps and training programmes, the pistes are generally quiet, the beginner’s classes are reputedly friendly and ski-in, ski-out accommodation, as well as slope-side resorts, make it all the more exciting (and convenient) for families.
Now flying Auckland – L.A direct Subject
OUR TOP THREE RECOMMENDATIONS CANADA
USA
USA
→→ Free fire and ice show in Whistler Blackcomb.
→→ Unguided snowmobiling from Vail and Beaver Creek.
→→ Soak up spectacular views of the Johnston Canyon with a guided ice walk in Banff.
→→ A visit to the Million Dollar Cowboy Bar and a photo under the iconic Elk horns at Jackson Hole.
Why we love the USA The USA, with its vast mountain ranges spanning the length of New Zealand, its iced snowy peaks and ski fields littering the landscape, caters for all your wintery needs. First things first, snow. You’ll be glad to hear that there won’t be a lack of it wherever you are in the USA’s top ski spots, notably the Rockies. Pow, pow and more pow, with guaranteed regular snow fall, resorts such as Vail and Steamboat boast world renowned powder and clear blue skies to make those off piste enthusiasts giddy. The higher the altitude, the truer this becomes and in Colorado, home to the highest peaks in North America, you’ll find an abundance of snow all season long.
→→ Winter wine tasting in the Okanagan Valley.
→→ Dinner on the mountain at 10,000ft - Game Creek Restaurant, Vail.
When to go January is the ‘good value month’, especially for families looking for a deal. The snow is unprecedented in February, and March offers some of the best spring skiing and blue-sky days you could ask for. Getting there From Auckland you can fly direct to LA in just over 12 hours. Once you arrive in LAX, the quickest option is to jump on a connecting flight to Denver or Colorado. Three hours later - hello snowy wonderland! What’s trending? The USA is becoming more and more well-known for some of the best backcountry and Cat Skiing in the
world. Options range from day trips to backcountry programmes for both skiers and boarders, while some ski fields, such as Keystone and Copper Mountain even offer Cat Skiing for free. Home to North America's highest peaks, Colorado’s steep and tricky terrain will keep the daredevils entertained for the entire holiday. If you want to cover some serious territory while the kids are at ski school, there are also several resorts in the USA offering unlimited access to multiple resorts on just one lift pass; Vail, Beaver Creek, Keystone and Park City to name a few. If you still haven’t had enough of the white stuff, come dusk certain resorts offer night skiing too. More than just a ski resort In the USA, many of the resorts are situated in working towns. Jackson Hole or Steamboat offer a real taste of Old West and give you the chance to soak up some cowboy culture. Think big, think American – there’s no shortage of huge malls and great outlet shopping, such as Silverthorne in Colorado, providing teenagers with the perfect holiday combo to work on both their on and off slope styles. What seals the deal? If you have a Ruapehu Season Pass, your HOT ski
consultant can arrange a FREE lift pass for Copper Mountain, Winter Park and Steamboat. The pass, along with accommodation at specific resorts can all be arranged before you leave. The verdict The USA accommodates everyone. Due to its sheer size and vast terrain, everyone’s welcome. Novices can swap ski stories with gold medal winners, although their chosen slopes will be far apart. From complete beginners to powder-pros, compromise isn’t a word used readily in these parts. As family friendly as they are solo focused, and with competitive pricing on airfares with American Airlines, the USA opens up an endless amount of snow opportunities. PLANNING A SNOWY ESCAPE? TALK TO OUR EXPERTS SARAH & CARL AT HOT SKI IN PARNELL. BRING YOUR IDEAS IN STORE, CALL THEM ON 0800 754 468 OR EMAIL INFOSKI@HOT.CO.NZ
PHOTOS FROM LEFT: Banff National Park, Canada Grays and Torreys Peaks, Colorado.
and on to over 200 U.S destinations. to regulatory approval.
ANON Somerset Goggle NZ $189.99 www.anonoptics.com
POMPOM The Aarti NZ $79.00
BURTON Women's GORE-TEX Mitt NZ $129.99 www.burton.com
WHAT TO WEAR ON THE SLOPES
RECEIVE 15% OFF Use the discount code 'POMPOM' when you shop online at www.pompomnz.com
ROXY Women's Torah Bright Whisper 15K Snow Pant NZ $249.99 VOLCOM Women's Stave Jacket NZ $269.99 www.volcom.com.au
20 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
ROXY Women's Lana Collar NZ $29.99 www.roxy-newzealand.co.nz
Improve Your Bucket List So many places, so little time. If your bucket list is increasing to gargantuan proportions, allow us to whittle it down into a well-researched selection of must-do’s. ESCAPE TO THE DEEP EXPERIENCE FESTIVALS FOR FREE FIND FREEDOM VIEWS TO WAKE UP TO DISCOVER COFFEE AND COCOA
Sculpture: Vein Man, Jason deCaires Taylor, Photo: The-Stills LifeStyle Agency MUSA Underwater Art Museum West Coast Marine National Park Isla Mujeres, Punta Cancun, Punta Nizuc.
I M P ROV E YO U R B U C KE T L I S T
Escape to the Deep If you thought the world above ground was a dazzler, you’ll be astounded by what exists beneath the water. Swimming with Whale Sharks
Museo Subacuatico de Arte
Manta Ray Dive
NINGALOO REEF, WESTERN AUSTRALIA
CANCUN, MEXICO
KONA COAST, HAWAI`I ISLAND
Cancun is famed the world over for its all-inclusive resorts, great beaches and balmy weather. But quite possibly its coolest (sorry) attraction lies just off the beach… under the Gulf of Mexico. Divers will rejoice at the Museo Subacuatico de Arte. Over 500 permanent life size sculptures have been installed on the ocean floor over two different sites by artist Jason deCaires Taylor, who, wanting to create an artificial reef onto which sea life could flourish, built one of the most ambitious underwater art attractions in the world. From VW Beetles to lounge settees, the most eerie are the human sculptures, gradually being swallowed by corals and weeds to create some rather creepy underwater scenes.
Ever seen a manta ray doing a barrel roll? If the answer’s no, take yourself to Hawai`i Island for a manta ray dive. We know what you’re thinking and it involves a certain Steve Irwin, but these mantas do not have stingers, just large grinning mouths which they use to gobble plankton. Which is also the main reason why they venture – en masse – to the Kona Coast, to the bay fronting Sheraton Kona Resort & Spa; their favourite spot to hang out. Come nightfall, spotlights are used to attract mantas to the plankton, while boat tours, certified divers and snorkelers are allowed to venture amongst them. Guests are treated to an amazing show of somersaults, flips and of course, impressive barrel rolls.
Getting into the water with a 20 tonne, 13 metre shark certainly doesn’t sound appealing. Especially when it’s called a Whale Shark! “What on Earth is that?” you say. “A shark the size of a whale?!” Thankfully no. In fact these creatures share more similarities to a whale than they do a shark. They’re slow moving, docile, friendly, and most importantly, they only eat plankton. Suddenly swimming with these creatures sounds far more awesome than it does scary. There are only a few places around the world where it can be done, and one of those places is the Ningaloo Reef, off Exmouth, Western Australia.
22 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
I M P ROV E YO U R B U C KE T L I S T
Experience Experience Festivals Festivals For for Free Free You don’t need to spend top dollar to experience the world’s most impressive festivals. Here are three that are free...
Día de Muertos
Thaipusam
Holi Festival of Colours
MEXICO CITY
KUALA LUMPUR
MUMBAI
Never has there been so much life amongst death, because your senses – all five of them – will never feel quite as alive as they do at Día de Muertos, the Day of the Dead. It’s November 2nd and death is dancing through the streets of Mexico City to the rhythm of a thousand warm-blooded ghosts. Between the hoards and harrowing masks, burnt-orange marigolds line the facades of colonial buildings and suited men link arms with ladies dressed as the ‘Elegant Skull’, their skin painted white and a skeletal grin on their face. Heading for Zócalo square, revellers celebrate the age-old Aztec belief that the dead come back to earth for just one day a year. Amidst floats and flamboyance, top-hatted skeletons jostle with sugar skull faces, all vying for space amongst the macabre. The bars are thumping and the scent of tequila dances atop the pulse of a relentless beating drum; the dead are officially alive.
The squeamish should look away now. A festival of faith and penance, the annual Hindu holiday of Thaipusam sees thousands of devotees follow the procession of a silver chariot from the city of Kuala Lumpur to the Batu Caves temple. Dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Murugan, many devotees affirm their faith by piercing their bodies with hooks, skewers and spears, including kavadi, which is an elaborately decorated frame weighing up to 100kg and – brace yourself – affixed to an individual’s flesh by sharp metal spikes. spikes. Onlookers Onlookerswho whocan canstomach stomachit, it will be entranced by the participant’s endurance, lucid dancing and intense celebrations. Just beware of the person next to you, they are likely to explode into an erratic dance move at any given chance. Held in the last week of January (or the first of February depending on the Hindu calendar), this carnival-like festival is a positive celebration of both cultural and religious identity..
Big colourful smiles, maniacal grins and childish shrieks that resonate from both the young and the old, Mumbai’s ordinarily manic streets have reached fever pitch. It’s Holi Festival and the predominately Hindu population are firing a rainbow of colour bombs across their suburbs. Marking the start of spring, Holi is the Hindu celebration of colour, friendship and love, so you’ll find similar levels of mayhem throughout India and much of Nepal. Visitors are whole-heartedly invited to partake, so arm up and follow suit. Load up the water guns and stuff your pockets with a dozen colour-bursting grenades; you’re going to war, albeit a fun one. You’d be wise to make allies with the children, they may look innocent but those smiling eyes mask mischievous intent. And that’s because there’s nothing more satisfying than colour-bombing an unsuspecting bystander.
PHOTO: Woman in costume for Día de Muertos festival
I M P ROV E YO U R B U C KE T L I S T
Find Freedom The concept of ‘losing oneself’ differs from person to person, but whether you crave isolation or exploration, there’s a little bit of world to get swept away with.
Self-drive the Outer Hebrides SCOTLAND Off the northwest coast of Scotland you’ll find a smattering of islands, including the famed Isle of Skye; the largest and most rugged member in the archipelago. Carved out of the earth by the relentless pounding of the North Sea, the Outer Hebrides are defined by a life so hard that few animals, let alone humans, can survive here. Green yet barren, vicious North Atlantic storms thrash the sharp jagged mountain ranges and windswept headlands are whipped by brooding seas. Between the scenery are the well-worn faces of a few hardy locals, you’ll be in awe of nature’s sheer force.
Find Freedom in Patagonia, Argentina & Chile SOUTH AMERICA If you’ve ever wished that the world was larger and less discovered, then you probably crave isolation. Destinations where the planet is seemingly untouched, void of hoards and mass souvenirs. You’re destined for Patagonia and South America’s renowned Parque Nacional Los Glaciares; the most beautiful corner of the world. From glistening glaciers to razor-sharp peaks, scrubland, waterfalls and teal coloured lakes, it’s undisputedly wild. Breathtakingly so. Fly from the bustle of Buenos Aires or Santiago and into the dense yet primitive pastures of Patagonia.
Go Barefoot in Balangan BALI Let go on the beach in Balangan, arguably Bali's most serene destination. Where transport has never transpired and deserted paths are a mix of dirt, sand and soil. Balangan’s a sleepy wonderland of hippies, surfers and smiling locals, where beach life coexists harmoniously with the township’s agriculture; the sun shining and the roosters crowing. Yoga lovers practice their mantra on the grass, the serenity disturbed only by the crash of a wave and the rustle of wind. PHOTOS FROM TOP: Isle of Skye, Scotland LEFT: Los Glaciares National Park, Patagonia RIGHT: Balangan Beach, Bali
24 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 1 6 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
I M P ROV E YO U R B U C KE T L I S T
Views to Wake up to These three abodes experience more "oohs" and "ahhs" than your average. With backdrops to die for, indulge your retinas with rooms that make you go WOW.
Ultimate Beachfront Bungalow
Junior Suite Lakeview
Stateroom Cabin
PACIFIC RESORT, AITUTAKI, COOK ISLANDS
FAIRMONT CHATEAU LAKE LOUISE, CANADA
RV MEKONG PANDAW CRUISE SHIP, VIETNAM
Imagine a rich dark-stained wooden deck, lush green palm trees, fine white sand, and finally, a luminescent aqua blue lagoon. It’s every dreamer's South Pacific paradise, and nowhere is it more perfect than at Aitutaki, arguably one of the most beautiful tropical island destinations in the world. Your aptly named Ultimate Beachfront Bungalow at the Pacific Resort Aitutaki is complemented with five star service, divine spa therapies, fine dining and one of the most stunning infinity pools in the South Pacific.
In this day and age it simply wouldn’t be possible to build a big honking hotel right in the middle of a UNESCO World Heritage area, but this hotel can trace its history back to 1890. History aside, what we’re here for is the view, perhaps Canada’s most iconic. The Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise has views over the impossibly blue glacier-fed lake, surrounded by tall green pines and enveloped in the striking Canadian Rockies. As if that wasn’t dramatic enough, above you, and clinging to the side of the mountains, is precarious Victoria Glacier.
Now here’s a clever one. How about a room whose view changes every time you look at it? The meandering Mekong River is the throbbing lifeline of Southeast Asia and nowhere more so is that true than at the mighty Mekong River Delta in southern Vietnam. From the comfort of your own balcony, or perhaps the sundeck, watch the Vietnamese travelling to and from home, fishing for dinner, doing the daily washing, bartering their goods, and even taking their cattle for a swim and a much needed relief from the heat.
PHOTO: Mekong River, Vietnam
I M P ROV E YO U R B U C KE T L I S T
Discover Coffee and Cocoa The three Cs you should never go without: coffee, chocolate and a combination of both. We’ve reviewed the very best places to get your triple-C hit.
Fait Maison
Cocohut
Melba
If the delightfully vintage exterior doesn’t attract your attention, the incredible window display full of heavenly cakes and sweets surely will. Inside, it’s delightfully English with plump armchairs and wonderful floral china and teapots. They’re famous for their wide selections of cakes which really will wow you, and as the name suggests, everything is homemade. The Brits aren't well known for their apt coffee making skills, but with a faithful nod to the French, the coffee is sublime, as of course, is the English Breakfast tea. Before paying take one last detour past the cabinet. Scone for the road old chap? Oh yes.
To be fair, great coffee is not something you’d expect to find in Fiji, and for the most part that is true. But not so at Plantation Island Resort. Tired mums and dads doing the family thing at this iconic family resort can stop in to recharge their batteries, with an invigorating brew. Early-risers will enjoy a morning walk along the seashore, rewarded with a fresh cup of coffee and sunrise views, and when the sun starts to sizzle, make it an iced coffee and retire to the adjacent beach. There are cakes and slices too, but you’re in Fiji, so why not go for some fresh coconut?
The five star Langham Hotel resides on the shores of Melbourne’s Yarra River. Inside, its famed buffet restaurant, Melba, is no ordinary buffet. Comprising several stations, each manned with its own chef, there are tender morsels to tempt every palate. But we’re here for the dessert station. Dozens of plates with gorgeous treats surround the centrepiece, a five tier chocolate fountain. That’s right, five tiers of chocolate gushing down through a fountain. And yes, there are plenty of sticks to impale your desserts on. Of course, this is accompanied by a coffee station with its own barista, and the hotel's legendary flat white.
SOUTH KENSINGTON, LONDON
PLANTATION ISLAND, FIJI
MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA
Now is the perfect time to live out your bucket list. IF YOU NEED HELP MA K IN G IT A R EA LIT Y V I S I T YOU R LO CA L H OT STO RE , CA L L U S O N 08 00 7 1 3 7 1 5 OR C HEC K OUT WWW.HOT.C O.N Z
26 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
Travel Like a Pro Want to know the secrets of a jet setter? From pack hacks to jet lag cures and a brand new way to stay in the city, we’ve even turned the latest planes inside-out. This is how you can travel better. ONE FINE STAY AIRBUS VS BOEING TOP 10 TRAVEL HACKS JET LAG CURES EVERY TRAVELLER SHOULD KNOW
T R AV E L L I KE A P RO
One Fine Stay Live like a local in a bespoke residence with onefinestay. Featuring a wealth of elegant accommodation across five fine cities; Los Angeles, New York, London, Paris and Rome, guests ditch the hotel in favour of an authentic inner city address.
O U R TO P TH RE E O N E F I N E STAY E XPE RI E N C E S A couple’s weekend in Paris
Take the family to London
Spend a weekend in Montmartre - Paris’ most colourful
London is colour. Forget the grey skies and industrial
neighbourhood. Noted for its infamous red windmill, The Moulin Rouge, it was once the providence of the French working class; struggling artists and penniless performers, gypsies, vagabonds and ladies of the night. The area today, (albeit a sleepier version of its former, scandalous self) still enjoys a delightful undercurrent of brash. Staying in Montmartre, on the tail-end of winter and with only a suggestion of spring in the air, days are designed for idle strolls and unapologetic gluttony. Start with croissants purchased from the patisserie downstairs, strong coffee and time out to absorb the ambience. A far cry from city hotels, staying in an authentic Parisian apartment lends itself to parquet floors and wooden shutters, crooked bookshelves and wonky beams that account for the rich smell of age-worn mahogany. Once outdoors, lose yourself in the steep and cobbled streets of a quartier built on a hill. Navigate the numerous staircases with their cast iron streetlamps and skeleton trees whistling in the breeze. Stop for sticky brioche en route to the Basilica de Sacre-Coeur and soak up the optimism of a city on the brink of spring. A white, winter sky casts a glow over Paris that at times can be more enchanting than sunshine; the crisp wind and the threat of rain always electric. Before the downpour, retreat to your apartment for an afternoon of mild contemplation, sink into armchairs and blankets while listening to the cafetiere rattling contently on the stove.
brick walls still stained with smog, London is arguably the most colourful city in Europe. From big red buses to lively London characters, hail an infamous black cab and if your mouth’s not ajar by Euston, we guarantee your children’s will be. Replace the homogenous hotel room with a beautiful Victorian house, bottom floor flats that spill into rowdy high streets, or slick townhouses creaking under the hammering of London chatter. Base your family in Camden and your experience of the UK’s capital will be bona fide London. Loud and alternative, creative and kooky, defined by both affluence and penny-scrimping disparity; old things, new things and those that aren’t quite sure. Chockablock with artisans, and the preferred hangout of the late Amy Winehouse, if there’s one place where the city slickers loosen their crisp silk ties, it’s in crazy, quirky Camden. Boasting a ceaseless energy, Camden is also home to London’s best eclectic shopping. The high street is lined with embellished shop fronts, from life-size bohemian elephants to six-foot Vans shoes. The congested markets are a mad hatter's tea party of stalls and street vendors, all framing Regent’s Canal. A mash-up of kitsch gifts, tattoos and neon tights (and lights), you’ll find plush pubs serving brown stout and niche cafés selling nothing but breakfast cereal. You’re a far cry from the city described in guide books, but you’ll pick away at the real essence of London.
Make it happen: Rue Blanche, Montmartre - South Pigalle, Paris. What we love: The extensive book collection, beamed ceilings and simple, linear décor. An authentic Parisian lifestyle is at the bottom of your stairwell.
Make it happen: Gloucester Crescent II, Camden, London. What we love: The extra large kitchen, a shabby-chic garden and enormous windows overlooking the quintessential London neighbourhood.
28 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
Alone in Rome Rome wasn’t built in a day. Nor was it built by those adverse to breath-taking aesthetics. From the Romans to Michelangelo, and every master that has since left his mark, Rome is a city shaped by creative intelligence. The supermodel of the world’s cities - old but never aging - Rome’s beauty trickles from its grandest architecture to its smallest shot of coffee; with style that stands apart and ingenuity that astounds. Start with the coffee. Sant’Eustachio caffè which stands conveniently behind the Pantheon and serves a city-famed espresso that’s slightly foamy, exquisitely creamy and just a little bit pretentious, but fabulously so. Stand at the bar, crowded and thick with the incense of coffee, while throwing back a sharp, slick gargle of caffeine. The staff are severe, but a fiery Italian persona only adds to the atmosphere. The Pantheon will introduce you to the sheer brilliance of Roman engineering. Almost two thousand years old, this
magnificent dome (and the largest unsupported one in the world) has withstood two world wars, centuries of erosion and a deluge of tourists. The 8.8 metre-wide opening in the ceiling, known as an oculus, provides the only source of light in the dome, but it sheds a glorious beam of luminosity across the exquisite interior. At the day’s end, skip home via a trattoria for your first sip of Roman wine. In Italy you can order a carafe, starting at 250ml or 500ml, it’s a convenient measure for the solo wine consumer. But order the entire bottle and pretend you didn't know. Make it happen: Piazza Margana, Campo de’ Fiori, Rome. What we love: The grand décor and elaborate furnishings, romantic French doors and a quaint balcony spilling off the main bedroom.
W E CA N H E L P YOU L I V E L I K E A LO CA L . V I S I T U S I NSTO RE , CAL L US ON 0 8 0 0 7 13 7 15 OR C HEC K OUT W W W. H OT.CO. NZ TO D I SCU SS YOUR IDEAL HOM E AWAY FROM HOM E.
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 2 9
T R AV E L L I KE A P RO
Airbus vs Boeing It’s big news these days when airlines place orders for the latest and greatest planes on the market, and they certainly love to boast about them too. But what really is all the fuss about?
A380 These behemoths are all about one thing: size. The A380 is the largest commercial passenger airplane ever built, a whopping 40% bigger than the beloved 747. The planes typically seat 525 people in a three class format, but if the plane was entirely economy class, up to 853 people could be squeezed in. This especially appeals to airlines flying into congested airports such as London, Los Angeles, Tokyo and New York, where landing slots are few and far between. For passengers, the aircraft means for a much more stable and smoother flying experience. This following point could arguably be a bad thing, but when you hurtle down the runway on take off, on an A380 you can barely feel the pull. And it’s not because they’re slow. In fact, they’re one of the fastest passenger aircraft around and can fly at speeds of 900 kilometres per hour. But to really get the full benefits of flying these aircraft, you need to be seated at the front of the plane. Passengers shelling out the dollars are treated to features such as a walk-up bar fully equipped with bar stools, chatty bar men, and a full range of drinks. And then there are the suites. These are pretty much a hotel room in the sky. Your suite comes with a double bed, an ensuite toilet, and even shower facilities. Remember when you thought having a personal seatback screen was a luxury?!
F I R S T
E C O N O M Y
Who has them?*
Where do they fly?*
→→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→
→→ Emirates from Auckland to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane, and then on to Dubai →→ Singapore Airlines from Auckland to Singapore (seasonal)
Qantas (12) Qatar Airways (6) Emirates (75) Singapore Airlines (19) Korean Air (10) Malaysia Airlines (6) Thai Airways (6)
→→ China Southern (5)
*Airlines and routes flying to New Zealand. Seat maps via seatguru.com
$404 MILLION
UP TO 544 PASSENGERS
3 0 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
15742 KM RANGE
SPEED 908 KMPH
787 Dreamliner The Dreamliners have three main selling features. Firstly, they’re 20% lighter on fuel, saving the airlines big bucks, and getting rid of those pesky fuel surcharges. Then there’s the fact that the plane is almost 50% metal and 50% plastic. This makes them lighter, and again, cheaper to fly. But it’s the passenger experience that really matters to you
B U S I N E S S
and I. Japanese airline ANA, who have 46 of the planes, surveyed passengers on a Tokyo to Frankfurt flight and found that expectations were surpassed for 90% of passengers. Features that exceeded expectations included air quality and cabin pressure (90% of passengers), cabin ambiance (92%), higher cabin humidity levels (80%), headroom (40%) and larger than usual windows (90%). So what that all basically means is that passengers arrive at their destination feeling more refreshed and ready to go. And just to emphasise that point even further, a further 25% of those passengers even went as far as saying they would go out of their way to fly on the 787 again.
M A I E NX T CR AA B I N
Who has them?*
Where do they fly?*
→→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→ →→
→→ Air New Zealand from Auckland to Honolulu, Nadi, Perth, Shanghai, Singapore, Tokyo and Buenos Aires (seasonal) →→ Air New Zealand from Christchurch to Perth (seasonal) →→ American Airlines from Auckland to Los Angeles (from June) →→ China Southern from Auckland to Guangzhou →→ China Southern from Christchurch to Guangzhou →→ LAN from Auckland to Santiago
Air New Zealand (6) United Airlines (28) Qatar Airways (27) American Airlines (15) LATAM Airlines (15) Jetstar (11) China Southern (10)
→→ Korean Air (1)
$224-306 MILLION
E C O N O M Y
→→ United Airlines from Auckland to San Francisco (from July)
UP TO 302 PASSENGERS
13621 KM RANGE
SPEED 908 KMPH HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 31
T R AV E L L I KE A P RO
Top 10 Travel Hacks One suitcase and 10 foolproof pack hacks to ensure you get the most from your weight allowance - tried and tested so you don’t have to.
Oh what a carry on! Organise a pre-packed ‘essentials’ bag inside your carry-on luggage. We all know how chaotic boarding can be so have the bits and bobs you definitely require in a small handheld bag. Essentials include book, eye mask, pen, hand cream, lip balm, passport, empty water bottle, toothbrush and paste. No one wants to be ‘that’ person, jumping up and down to grab something from the overhead.
Get magnetic
What's that smell?
Packing for a cruise? Hold onto your sailor hat because this tip will revolutionise your next ocean jaunt. Take magnets. Cruise ship doors are metal and magnets will allow you to stick your important documents (such as tickets and itineraries) against the framework for the duration of your trip. Or even photographs if you feel like making your cabin a little more home-like.
Take a pack of dryer sheets and pop them in your suitcase. They’ll infuse your luggage with that ‘just washed’ scent, rather than the stale, musky aroma that derives from an airless suitcase. And for dirty undergarms, throw the hotel bar soap inside your laundry bag. These two hacks combined will ensure you don’t groan and grimace when immigration demand a bag check.
If you’ve read it once, you’ve read it a thousand times; the fundamental rule of travel packing is to roll your clothes. Rolling everything from socks to singlets not only maximises the space in your luggage, it also prevents creasing. And if you’re packing shirts, roll up a belt and place it inside the collar, this will ensure the neck stays crisp too.
LAUGHTER
Our Favourite Travel Books For...
32 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
One, two, lose a few...
Roll, roll, roll
This one’s time consuming but the benefits outweigh the inconvenience. Lay the entire contents of your suitcase on the floor and go through each item piece by piece. Come up with at least one reason for taking every item, i.e. a raincoat for rain (funny that). If your third pair of trainers are only making the cut because they look natty, ditch them.
INSPIRATION
I LEFT MY TENT IN SAN FRANCISCO
VROOM WITH A VIEW
EMMA KENNEDY
Milan to Rome on a 1961 Vespa. Spend summer in Italy with Peter Moore and his Vespa called Sophia; living like a local as he hops from one town - and its mechanic - to the next.
A painfully funny account following two best friends as they embark on a haphazard three-month adventure across America.
PETER MOORE
Go-go gadget
Simplicity is key Take a pen. Don’t laugh, we’ll explain our reasoning behind this one in two simple words: arrival cards. You know how it goes, it’s mid-flight and you finally (and reluctantly) decide to fill one in. But with what? How’s your fancy iPod, iPad or iPhone helping you now? And that’s just one example (of hundreds) when you’ll be happy you packed a pen.
In an age where we all own two dozen digital gadgets, hotel downtime is often spent replenishing dwindling batteries. Take a six plug powerboard and worry only about one adapter and one socket. In Europe especially, hotels are generous with their dust ruffles but not with their sockets, so if you’re loaded with gizmos, pack a six plug board and you’ll be laughing all the way to the power bank.
INSIGHT
Fantastic elastic This is an age old backpacker's trick that works just as well if you have a rolling suitcase. Pack a ball of elastic bands and downsize your luggage. From bulky sweaters to well-padded jackets, fold, roll and secure with 2-4 thick elastic bands. Like string around your pork roast, it'll keep everything tight, neat and above all, compact.
Welcome to the most digital era the world has ever seen. If you want to take books, cameras, maps, magazines, travel guides and torches, don’t even bother because there’s an app for them all. Voilà, you’ve just freed up half your bag’s capacity. The rookie error would be forgetting your charger.
MEMORIES
DOWN AND OUT IN PARIS AND LONDON
DO BIG SMALL THINGS
GEORGE ORWELL
G Adventures founder, Bruce Poon Tip, encourages you to look at life and travel by using this book to create a vibrant record of your adventures - by writing, ripping, making and sharing.
Part fiction, part memoir, Orwell’s narrative of 1930s Paris and London is spellbinding. A world of tramps, street people and poverty, his account of Parisian culture is especially beguiling.
Tell a little white lie
There's an app for that
We will reluctantly share this one with you, but if too many people know, it could prove detrimental. Label your bag as fragile. Not only will ground staff handle your suitcase with greater care, but apparently, it’ll also get stored at the very top of the plane’s cargo. Thus, it’ll be first on the carousel when you arrive.
GIGGLES TOILETS: A SPOTTER’S GUIDE
BRUCE POON TIP
LONELY PLANET Loos with spectacular views, stunning architecture and incredible settings. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the beauty found inside this cheeky photo book.
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 33
T R AV E L L I KE A P RO
Jet Lag Cures Every Traveller Should Know They who claim they never suffer from jet lag are either marvels of human creation, or big fat fibbers. For the rest of us mere mortals, with body clocks to throw us askew, here are seven top tips for swerving the lag.
3 4 I N S P I R E J U N E 20 16 | HOUS E O F TRAVEL
Remember the mantra, ‘West is best, east is a beast’ The reasoning behind this lyrical rhyme is that most travellers find an eastward flight results in late-morning wake-ups and an inability to sleep come nightfall. The west seems a little less troublesome, but can still have you waking at 5am and wanting to nap again by dusk. To minimise these potentially holiday-ruining sleep patterns, book an afternoon flight if you’re travelling west and a morning flight if you’re heading east. Then, if you’ve travelled eastwards to your final destination, get strict and wake yourself at a reasonable hour. If travelling west, avoid the 5pm shut eye and plan something to do between 5 - 7pm.
Get stretching
Fall asleep
Not the most inconspicuous activity to practice while standing between passengers in the aisle, but stretching before bedtime will help you slip into sleep. Stretches that target body areas where we hold the most tension, such as the shoulders, neck, hands and chest stimulates blood flow, relaxes the muscles and prepares the body for sleep. Beneficial yoga positions such as downward dog may be impractical, but simple neck rolls and spinal twists combined with deep, conscious breathing will massage your internal organs, increase your inner calm and relieve anxiety.
Ha! We hear you guffaw - unlikely. As if getting a full night’s sleep on a red eye flight is achievable. However, here’s a three step ‘RED’ plan to increase the likelihood: Routine: Follow your usual bedtime ritual. Wash your face, brush your teeth. Or whatever it takes to trick your mind into thinking it's following the usual wind-down. Eat: Choose the carb-heavy meal option and load up on stodge. Starch causes a surge of insulin, but the lack of exercise needed to burn excess sugar results in fatigue. Darkness: Take an eye mask and cut out any light source. Fool the brain into thinking it’s night time.
Get some sunshine. Pronto Once arrived, avoid the temptation to head straight for your bed and seek some outdoor sunlight instead. Sunshine is a natural stimulant and will encourage the brain to wake up. It’ll also regulate your biological clock, which, if you’ve ever noticed yourself naturally awaken milliseconds before your alarm shrills, is as good as accurate anyway. Get as much light exposure as you possibly can, anything more than 30 minutes will help. And don’t worry if you’re bound for the UK, overcast light is also beneficial for alleviating the urgency to sleep.
Adjust your watch There’s a reason why the pilot informs you of the time at your destination while you’re still taxiing down the runway, it’s because he’s simultaneously adjusting his own watch. Set the new time before take off and it’ll do wondrous things to curtail jet lag. The theory behind this one is that every time you glance at your watch, you’re preparing your subconscious for what time it’s going to be. Manipulating your body clock as early as the runway will give it a clear (albeit shrewd) heads up that things are about to change.
Wear glasses Get a better night’s sleep without taking any medication by wearing Re-Timer light therapy glasses. Australian made, these intelligent specs use green and blue light to realign your body clock. Because your body naturally produces the sleep hormone melatonin at night, when you fly, your melatonin isn’t produced at the right time for your new schedule. Wearing the Re-Timer glasses for periods of time before and after your flight suppresses melatonin production and promotes better sleep. As feather light as regular sunglasses, they’re sleek, nifty and a handy addition to your holiday list, but they will add a few hundred dollars to your trip.
Download the Entrain app Now pay attention, because this one’s scientific. Long haul flights cause your circadian rhythms to be all out of whack (FYI, circadian rhythms are biological rhythms that repeat themselves roughly once a day). No one wants that. Entrain uses a series of light and dark schedules to help you adjust to low light and bright light in order to get your body clock functioning in the right time zone. In layman’s terms, you ease your way into a new time zone by conditioning your body correctly using light trickery. Currently available on App Store and Google Play.
HOUS E OF T R AVE L
| INS PIR E J UNE 20 16 35
“All I wanted was warmth and a beach. Together we found somewhere that took me closer to my family.”
The best holidays are created together. H O T. C O. N Z
Bring your ideas into House of Travel and we’ll help you get there. Jump Online
Get Social
HOT App
Talk To Us
Visit houseoftravel.co.nz for all the latest deals and inspiration. Sign up to get HOT offers sent straight to your inbox.
Keep up to date on our latest deals, tips, competitions and more.
Booked a holiday with us already? Use the FREE House of Travel app for access to all your important travel docs, GPS and map services. Add extras, share photos and book local deals... all from your smartphone!
To chat to one of our friendly specialists pop into one of our stores nationwide or call us on
facebook.com/houseoftravelnz twitter.com/houseoftravel instagram.com/houseoftravelnz
Download from the App or Google Play store today or txt 595.
0800 713 715