S.S. Victoria on Rhine River
Verona, Italy
Uniworld
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises delivers an immersive experience with destination-inspired ships, each reflecting the culture, heritage, and artistic traditions of the places they sail. Indulge in world-class cuisine, free-flowing wines, and carefully crafted onshore experiences.
Enter a realm of unmatched luxury, where each suite is meticulously designed with exceptional features and sophisticated elegance. Experience personalised service, tailored to your every need by the attentive and dedicated crew of Uniworld, ensuring an unforgettable experience."
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Fleet 3
S.S Maria Theresa
Uniworld's Super Ship™ fleet was built in honour of the great Habsburg ruler Maria Theresa.
S.S La Venezia
Now bringing luxurious experience once again, River Countess debuted as S.S La Venezia after undergoing remodeling in 2020.
S.S Sphinx
Experience authentic Egyptian culture onboard Super Ship™ Sphinx, which showcases cultural designs and materials sourced locally for an immersive journey.
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Melissa Topp
House of Travel Christchurch City
Travel really is my passion and I perhaps love organising it just as much as the actual travelling. Being able to open up options for people they had no idea they could accomplish is truly exciting. I love the scope of what we can accomplish as a travel agent; our systems, knowledge and relationships with the right people all add up to being able to organise a truly memorable trip. I’ve done it all from tours, safaris, ocean and river cruises, adventure travel, self-drives, rail journeys, family travel specialising in all things Disney and I love to share my knowledge to help you achieve the trip of your lifetime.
Outside of the office I like to spend my time skiing, horse riding, tramping, scuba diving, getting outside on our lifestyle block with my two little girls or enjoying a glass of pinot with a side order of chocolate mousse.
Years in the Industry: over 20
No. of countries visited: 50+
Favourite place to visit: Niue, no wait Cuba, hmm no
maybe it’s Egypt….. Or Italy….
Next place on the list to visit: Disneyworld
· “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Augustine of Hippo
Why I love travel?
Travel gives us our greatest stories, our most cherished memories and countless irreplaceable learnings that we can choose to pay forward to others. It teaches us about ourselves and each other, it broadens our horizons and, just like a reset button, it forces us to refocus on what really matters.
My travel tips:
- Pack your patient pants; Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. Your trip is
much too short to stress. Did you miss your bus? No worries, there will be
another one.. ATM out of
money? Great! Take an unplanned road trip over to the next town and
explore. I know it can be hard sometimes, but just
take a deep breath and remind yourself that it could be worse.
- Focus on value over
deals. It’s so easy to not look past the initial $ signs when organising
your trip but how much extra will there be in added costs once you are at
your destination, lost time or enjoyment is that initial saving really
going to cost you once you are there.
- Wake Up Early To Avoid Crowds. Rise before sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding large tourist crowds. It’s also a magical time for photos due to the softer light and often providing great opportunities to interact with locals getting ready for their day. Sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning too. Honest hardworking people wake up early; scammers and criminals sleep in…
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Rio
De Janeiro – Such an incredibly vibrant city. Imagine, having dinner in a
local favela, no other tourists in sight and locals from ages 1-99 all
together, laughing, dancing to the live music, everyone talking to
everyone. A local group of young people came down the street performing
the traditional capoeira martial art/dance and everyone heads outside to
watch and cheer them on. It is always the people that make the place and
Brazil’s people are very bit as colourful as this amazing city.
- Europe
River cruise – A true holiday. Pull up each day in a different location,
right in the heart of things, wander off the boat and go for it. Return
when you feel like it to every luxury you could want, top class food and
drink and every room has a front row view. No crowds, most ships have
under 200 passengers and a great option for both first time travellers and
more experienced as you tend to visit many of the smaller and often less
visited towns.
- Rocky
Mountaineer train journey – Starting in Banff, which really feels like the
Queenstown of Canada and ending in Vancouver, a stunning city just a few
minutes’ drive and from the beautiful redwood forests this train journey
is must do travel experience. Seeing the spectacular scenery of the
Rockies from the comfort of your warmed up spacious leather seat, the
mountains are not just to either side but also above you through the glass
roof of the train.
- Borneo
– Here you can combine stunningly beautiful beach resorts with a visit to
the jungle; see the Proboscis monkeys, baby turtles being released into
the ocean and one of the only places in the world to see Orangutans in
their native habitat. One of the least explored areas on the planet with
many adventures to be had but you don’t need to skimp on luxury.
- East Africa Safari – It is a strangely exciting experience to be told not to wander too far from your tent at night because wild animals are really all around you. From elephants wandering through our camp one evening, to hearing bison grazing in the grass around us while sleeping, Africa really is as wild as you hope it will be. So many travel experiences these days are replicas – shows put together for your enjoyment. Africa definitely is not; it could not get much more real. Seeing orphaned baby elephants playing football with each other, wandering over to you reaching out their trunk so smell you as you stand behind only a rope fence watching their antics is just one of the incredible experiences on offer in this amazing location.
What’s in my suitcase?
- A
dog bed. I kid you not. These days I’m travelling with two little ones in
tow and as strange as this sounds it’s a life saver on long haul
flights-pair it with one of those big inflatable pillows that go where
your legs usually do and you have a comfortable bed for the little ones to
curl up in.
- A
dirty laundry bag. One easy spot to place all the worn things and easy to
take to the laundry with you while travelling or dump in the machine when
home.
- Earplugs. I need a good nights sleep be ready to do everything I have planned for the next day on my holiday and you just never know what noises you might want to shut out while travelling.
Melissa
Gavin Rasikaran
House of Travel Auckland City
I'm Gavin Rasikaran, your dedicated travel expert with a passion for exploring the world and a commitment to making your travel dreams a reality.
With over 40 years of experience in the travel industry, I've had the privilege of helping countless clients embark on unforgettable journeys to destinations near and far.
When it comes to planning an International trip, be it just one destination or an around the world journey, it can all become overwhelming and daunting. Together with you, I will help you plan a perfect holiday taking the stress away, personalised to you.
Lisa Crawford
House of Travel Lower Hutt
Lisa
Leonie Paul
House of Travel Blenheim
Leonie
Get in touch
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Frequently Asked Questions
Greece is perfect. From June to September, it’s sunny, warm and ideal for swimming — right when it’s chilly back home.
No. New Zealand passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Yes. Many islands, like Naxos and Corfu, have calm beaches, family resorts and short ferry connections.
Book an island-hopping itinerary or a small-ship cruise. It’s easy to combine 2–3 islands in one trip.
There are no direct flights from New Zealand, but it’s easy to connect via hubs such as Doha, Dubai or Singapore to Athens.
Flight time from Auckland to Athens: around 24–26 hours including a stopover. Many travellers break their journey in the Middle East or Asia.
Santorini, Mykonos, Crete and Rhodes offer long sunny days, great beaches and plenty of entertainment.
Q. What is the best time to visit Italy?
Italy is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery. Summer (July to August) is great for coastal destinations like the Amalfi Coast but tends to be hot and busy. Winter (November to March) is perfect for exploring cities like Rome and Florence or skiing in the Alps.
Q. Where to go on holiday in Italy?
Italy has something for everyone. Rome is rich in history and iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Venice is a romantic city of canals, and Florence is the heart of Renaissance art and architecture. The Amalfi Coast is perfect for seaside beauty, while Tuscany offers rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages. For something unique or unexplored, explore Sicily or Puglia for stunning beaches and authentic cuisine. Our Italy travel specialists can help craft the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests.
Q. How long should I go to Italy for a holiday?
We recommend at least 10–14 days to explore Italy’s highlights. This allows you to experience multiple regions, from the historic cities of Rome and Florence to the scenic countryside of Tuscany and the stunning Amalfi Coast. If you have more time, you can include hidden gems like Cinque Terre, Lake Como, or Sicily.
Q. How can I find the best holiday package to Italy?
Check out our Italy deals section on the website or subscribe to receive exclusive offers. Our Italy travel specialists can help create a custom itinerary to suit your preferences and ensure you have an unforgettable holiday.
Q. Where to stay in Italy?
Italy offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels and historic palazzos to charming agriturismi (farm stays) and boutique B&Bs. For an authentic experience, consider staying in a countryside villa in Tuscany or a traditional trullo in Puglia. Major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice have accommodations for every budget. Let us help you find the perfect place to stay.
Q. What is there to do in Italy?
Italy is brimming with experiences. Visit ancient ruins in Rome, admire Renaissance art in Florence, and cruise the canals of Venice. Explore the scenic Amalfi Coast, take a cooking class in Tuscany, or sip wine in the Chianti region. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. For food lovers, indulge in authentic pizza in Naples, fresh pasta in Bologna, and gelato everywhere. Check out our favourite things to see and do Italy.
Q. What should I pack for my trip to Italy?
· Comfortable walking shoes: Italy’s cobblestone streets require sturdy footwear.
· Layers: The weather can vary depending on the season and region.
· A reusable water bottle: Public water fountains, or "nasoni," are common and safe to use.
· Travel adapters: Italy uses type C, F, and L plugs (220V).
Q. Do I need travel insurance for Italy?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. It ensures you’re covered for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unexpected interruptions.
Q. What is the best time to visit France?
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.
Q. Where should I go on holiday in France?
France has a destination for every traveller 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!
A few of our favs:
· Paris – Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame.
· Provence – Stunning lavender fields, historic villages, and local markets.
· French Riviera – Glamorous beaches in Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
· Loire Valley – Fairytale châteaux, vineyards, and scenic countryside.
· Normandy & Brittany – Coastal charm, history, and delicious seafood.
· Burgundy – Picturesque villages and world-class wine regions.
Q. How long should I visit France for?
For a well-rounded trip, we recommend 10–14 days. This allows you to explore Paris and add regions like the Loire Valley, Provence, or the French Riviera. For shorter trips, a week in Paris with day trips to places like Versailles or Champagne is a great option.
Q. How can I find the best holiday package to France?
Check out our France holiday deals section or subscribe to receive exclusive offers. Our travel specialists can craft a custom itinerary tailored to your preferences for a seamless and unforgettable experience
Q. Where should I stay in France?
France offers a variety of accommodation options:
· Luxury hotels & boutique stays in Paris and major cities.
· Charming countryside châteaux & farm stays in regions like Loire Valley and Provence.
· Coastal resorts along the French Riviera.
· Ski lodges & chalets in the Alps.
· Cozy B&Bs & apartments for a more local experience. Our France travel specialists us help you find the perfect place to stay!
Q. What is there to do in France?
France is brimming with experiences. Explore world-famous landmarks in Paris like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower. Wine-tasting in Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne regions. Relax on the beaches of the French Riviera. Visit Mont Saint-Michel, one of France’s most stunning medieval sites. Discover charming villages and lavender fields in Provence. Indulge in gourmet food experiences—from croissants in a Parisian café to Michelin-starred dining. Check out our favourite things to see and do in France.
Q. What should I pack for my trip to France?
For your trip to France, pack clothing that suits the season—light outfits for summer and warm layers for fall and winter. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on cobblestone streets, and a stylish outfit will come in handy if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants. A scarf is both a practical and fashionable choice, while a rain jacket or small umbrella can help with unpredictable weather.
Don’t forget a power adapter - France uses Type E plugs. Bring your credit or debit cards, some cash for small purchases.
Q. Do I need travel insurance for France?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unexpected delays
Q. How do I get around in France?
The SNCF train system is globally regarded as providing a world-class service. If you’re looking for a fast, efficient, regular and extremely reliable means to get around France, you can’t go wrong with the train. Albeit not cheap, book in advance for the best deals. In the height of summer, you’re unlikely to be able to purchase tickets on the day you want to travel, especially on popular inter-city routes, as they will probably be fully booked. Always pre-purchase tickets at least three days in advance.
Note: France has banned short-haul domestic flights for any journeys that are possible in less than 2.5hrs by train (from May 2023) – in a bid to make transport greener and fairer for the population – trains are the way to go!
Quick facts:
· Trains run every 10 to 15 minutes.
· Average journey time between Paris-Châtelet and CDG airport is 35-40 minutes
· Arrival Stations: Gare du Nord, Châtelet les Halles, St Michel/Nôtre Dame, Luxembourg, Port Royal, Denfert-Rochereau, Cité Universitaire.
· We guarantee after a 24+ hour flight from NZ, you won't want to deal with a transfer via public transport. Ask your HOT consultant about booking a transfer before you even leave NZ.
Q. What are some must-do activities in France?
Check out our France travel section for top recommendations, including cultural experiences, must-see landmarks, and local favourites.
Q. What are some family-friendly activities in France?
You can make almost any French activity as fun for children as it is for the adults. You can hire a locaboat – self skippered boat - for a week or so to take in the countryside. Take a ghost tour/walk in Paris or navigate the rural vineyards with a bike ride. If you’re critters are brave critters, cycle on a country road and wait for the trucks carrying hay bales to pass – nothing more fun than a hay storm!
In summer, many of the French farmers craft their fields into crazy mazes. A maize maze if you will. The French are also particularly good at designing a really great park, with all sorts of swings, slides and monkey bars.
If you’re not close to the coast, many municipals have manmade lakes with small slivers of sand and swimming pontoons. And you might not get the kids eating duck liver pate by lunchtime, but we bet they won’t mind a picnic with a pastry from the patisserie. Look out for the savoury options covered in shredded emmental cheese – the cheese makes the slice look excessively hairy and kids love it.
In 2026, Kiwi travellers are leaning towards high-impact travel- experiences that combine awe-inspiring natural landscapes, rich cultural immersion, and adventure. Popular activities include exploring Colombia’s jungles, seeing lavender fields in Provence, and cursing the Nile in Egypt.
Yes, Japan holds a commanding lead as the #1 destination for Kiwis, followed closely by Italy, Greece, and France, particularly for cultural exploration, cherry blossom season, and city adventures.
Lavendar season in Provence peaks from late June to early August. The perfect time for scenic drives, village markets, and photography of the iconic purple fields.
