What our clients say

Thank you so much Kristin. You are amazingly patient and persistent – so much appreciated!

Gloria D – Takapuna (November 2020)

Good morning Kristin, Jemma and Sally

We wish we were travelling again but when we hopefully go next Christmas to England, we will be in contact!  Our son and his partner are having a baby in February so it would be nice to be with them for their first ‘family’ Christmas.  Fingers crossed.

Good luck going forward with your business. 

You are all marvellous and when we travel through you, we feel safe knowing everything is organised superbly.

Kind regards

Deborah B – Stonefields (Oct 2020)

Hi Kristin

Thank you so much for the mighty quick turn around and fabulous organisational skills.  I have paid the full amount into your bank account which should appear tomorrow.

Loved, loved all your suggestions below, my boss has already directed me to the crayfish at the Kaikoura Seafood place, said it was magic.

So excited to get out of Auckland and our building site.

Take care and thanks again.

Leah S – Glendowie (June 2020)

 Jemma

Just to let you know we have received the money for AIR NZ tickets. In addition I saw that United had reimbursed the Extra Paid Seating for flights between LA and NY and Orlando and Houston. So that is awesome – so just the United flight between NY and Orlando is still to be paid.

Thank you so much for all your help – it has made this awful experience so much more bearable – YOU GUYS ROCK!

We won’t forget all your hard work when we finally get the chance to go overseas again!

Cheers

Jo E – Mission Bay (July 2020)

 Hi Kristin,

This great news nearly made me burst my bubble.
You are a star!!
Thank you for your efforts.
Maybe sometime around Nov/Dec I will revisit the possibility of reactivating a Europe trip for June/July 2021. Roll on the search for a vaccine.
Thanks
Phil B – Bucklands Beach (April 2020)

Dear Kristin and team,
Thanks for all the work you do to make our holidays special. Let’s hope a vaccine makes travel possible in the near future
Anna B – Kohimarama (March 2020)

Hi Kristin

I am the mother of Scott and Connor. Thank you so very very much for helping these kids to get home. I was at a bit of a loss. Totally appreciate your skills and helping them out!!
Kind regards
Hilary B – Silverstream (March 2020)

Hi Kristin, Jemma & Sally
Firstly, thank you for your emails keeping us informed about the travel industry and your situation as well.
Here’s to getting through the next few weeks and eventually moving back to a somewhat normal daily routine.
Look forward to you helping us with our travel plans again in the future.
Kind regards
Sheryn & Rodger M – Glendowie (March 2020)

Hi Kristin 

That is great news, thank you so much!
Pete and I have been thinking about you  and your business and once everything has settled down we will certainly rebook with you and recommend you to friends.
Thanks again,
Nicola G – Glendowie (March 2020)

Thanks again – pleased we know an excellent travel agent!
Wendy H – St Heliers (March 2020)

Hi Jemma,

We are very grateful for the wonderfully attentive service you are providing.  The ‘wait and see’ option seems highly sensible and so much can happen between now and mid May. We are not anticipating travel to Russia this year but our policy is to look at things a week at a time rather than too far down the track.
I hope you are able to relax in your bubble.  There must be so many travel plans to unpick.
Take care.
Best wishes
Jenny L – St Heliers (March 2020)

Hi Kristin

Thank you so much for organising and booking Rhiannon’s flight home this evening I was unable to book it online and she was getting worried she would be the only one stuck down in the residence!! This whole Covid 19 is quite surreal and I hope it passes quickly from NZ and the world. All the best to you and your family over the next month or so. I am so happy Rhiannon has managed to be home with family 🙂

Kind regards

Wendy Exeter – Auckland (March 2020)

Dear Kristin,

So many things to thank you for and so far behind with thanking!

Firstly- we had a wonderful time in Japan and loved every minute of it.

Everything you and your team organised was perfect and better.

The Real Journeys team were faultless , so organised, skilled and charming. Their English was very good and it made such a difference having them meet us while we got our heads around the amazing train systems. So reliable.

We found them to be so gracious, kind and disciplined- works so well with such a big population.

We all loved the food and had fun finding places where there were no tourists, often no English and sometimes no pictures. A great experience.

Thank you for the wonderful service you and your team give us.

Warmly,
Pennie K – Milford (November 2019)

Hi Kristin

Firstly many thanks for your help whilst we were away. We had a fab time and feel better for the break from routine of daily life.

Thanks
Joan F – Waikanae (October 2019)

Hi Jemma,

Just a quick note to thank you and your team for arranging the “best holiday ever!”

We absolutely loved every aspect of it; the boat, the food (they were fantastic with our special dietary needs), the wonderful staff, the activities, the shows, the excursions, our rooms – everything was just perfect and we had an absolute blast!

So thank you for your choice in picking the cruise to suit us – you nailed it!

Thanks
Michael & Hannah B – Te Atatu (October 2019)

Hi Kristin, 

We arrived home yesterday after our wonderful trip to Japan.

Even though the rugby didn’t quite go our way, we were still very proud of the way the ABs conducted themselves both on and off the field.

They are certainly very well liked in Japan and we were able to bask in their reflected glory. 

As first time visitors to Japan, Greg and I were very impressed with the country and would certainly recommend it as a destination. 

Thanks so much for all the work you did in organising the first part of the trip.

We really enjoyed both Takayama and Naoshima. Two very different sides of japan.

The accommodation in all areas was excellent as were the team on the ground.

Our guide in Takayama ‘Nat’ was a delight. 

Your agents on the ground in Japan , Tonichi Travel and especially the wonderful Yukimo were outstanding in the way they reorganised everything for us after the Typhoon.

As you could see from the email trail, Yukimo worked so hard for us. 

Thanks once again for all the time you spent organising everything for us and no doubt we will meet some time in the future. 

Kind regards
Felicity and Greg S – Milford (October 2019)

Hi Kristin,

We’ve arrived home safely from our Japan trip which went very smoothly thanks to your great organisation. The hiccup with the typhoon was handled so well we only missed a half day on Teshima and then our trip was back on track. All our guides were very informative and most had good English which made our trip so much more enjoyable.

Chris and I wanted to thank you for your recommendations and making our stay in Japan so enjoyable and stress free.

Kind Regards

Sharman and Chris R – Milford (October 2019)

Hi Kristin

A HUGE thank you to your and your team for organising such a lovely holiday at short notice.  Absolutely nothing disappointed, and as per usual, all the timings and details spot on.  Your recommendations were great and we did feel we were very well looked after (and upgraded twice) thanks to your relationships with the providers.

We did manage to get into the Koru Lounge at Brisbane, which was fortunate as the flight was delayed an hour or so coming home.

Hopefully we’ll get to do a few more of the trips, it was an eclectic mix, but worked perfectly.

Kind regards
Helen & Fern – Glendowie (October 2019)

Hi Kristin

We are overwhelmed by all that you have done, over and above what we had expected, to help us plan this wonderful family holiday. We absolutely appreciate all the time, detail and care you have put into the entire itinerary so much that it really feels like you’ve put us on the forefront of your planning even though we’re certain you have many other clients to look after too.

Thank you very much and we are looking forward to 2020 with much excitement.

Kind regards,
Craig & Hui-Leng – Glendowie (October 2019)

Hi Kristin

Loved the Handlebar tour. Glad we had pre-booked as were feeling slightly jaded and might not have. Totally rallied and our fellow travellers were 6 cops on a stag night. They were great although 2 of them didn’t pedal! It was a really fun thing to do. The Market tour was 2 and a half hours and was also great as we had a proper breakfast and then heaps of tastings that would never have happened had we been on our own. The others on it were a hoot as well. We’ve also picked up yummy cheeses and snacks, as well as stuff to cook for dinner tonight.

So I must say, your recommendations are spot on so far and we’ve only heard good things about the ones coming up, so no pressure!

Cheers,
Helen & Fern – Ellerslie (October 2019)

Hi Kristin

We have arrived safely at Evergreen Lodge and were told we had a free upgrade to the larger unit. Asked no questions, just took it happily. I must say it’s really nice to have a lot of space to spread out, we have a lounge and large bathroom as well as a spare bedroom.

The accommodation so far has been really good, thank you. Having a great time, got hundreds of photos to sort through! Went to Cirque du Soleil ‘Beatles Love’ at the Mirage while in Las Vegas, fantastic! Also caught a baseball game in San Diego and off to ice hockey while in Lake Tahoe.  While in America as they say! Off to walk through parts of Yosemite now.

Thanks again,
Allison and John – Glendowie (October 2019)

Hi Kristin

Congratulations for winning all those awards.  You guys are AMAZING!!

So sorry I haven’t emailed you sooner.  We’ve been back from our trip for ages, but time seems to have disappeared!!

Just some feedback on our amazing trip.  I think I told you, we were the only ones on our China tour.  So we had undivided attention from two guides , a driver and a car.  Our guide, Cathy, met us in Shanghai and travelled with us till the end.  She was amazing.  We ended up great friends and there were tears when we left!

The tour was great, we thoroughly recommend it.  Quite different to what I imagined.  More modern, I think.  It was so good to see for ourselves what it’s like over there.  The people are just like us, carrying on their lives.  They were very friendly but of course we couldn’t understand what they said!  Thank goodness we had Cathy with us.  We took her out to dinner with us most nights too so she could translate the menu’s.

Canada was great.  So good to see Sean and to meet his new girlfriend.  They are into hiking and rock climbing and nearly killed us the first day taking us on a “ easy” hike.  Mike had a chest infection so could hardly breathe, and me, well, I was just unfit!!  I had to tell Sean to ease up on the walking for us oldies. Haha.

Las Vegas was hot & busy.  The Bellagio was fantastic, but very busy.  The helicopter trip was very good.  The best way to see the grand canyon, I think.  It was 43 degrees when we got out of the helicopter  for lunch.  WOW !  Too hot for me.

Hawaii was quite different going to the Big Island.  Not what I expected.  The landscape looked like the moon, with the lava flow everywhere.  The resort was beautiful, right on the beach.  I would definitely recommend it.

Everything went smoothly.  We had 9 airplane flights and 2 helicopter flights, so we had had enough of flying and airports.  We found each airport was different and the hardest thing was finding where the luggage claim was!  Auckland airport is so easy.

It was so good to get home.  Our first grandchild is due in one week.  Here in NZ, thank goodness, not Canada.  They live next door so I’m going to be a hands on Nana.

So, thanks again for all your great organising.  As usual, everything went smoothly and we both had a great time!

Thanks Kristin

Cheers
Kay L – Pukekohe (June/July 2019)

Good morning Kristin

Lu and I just wanted to pass on that we had a great time away in Fiji with Mum & Dad. This outcome was in no small way a consequence of your excellent coordination of travel bookings and plans.

Specifically to us we wanted to pass on that the Castaway leg was excellent and the beachfront bure booked was superb. The staff there could not do enough for us and we felt the value for money offered was brilliant. We loved the snorkelling and watersports options. The food was fantastic.

We also all loved the Sofitel Beach Club & Natadola experiences. Our rooms at both properties were first class and similarly the staff engagement/assistance at both hotels was outstanding.

Thanks again Kristin – truly appreciated all your efforts and added value.

You definitely made a great trip even better. Extremely cool to share such a great time with Mum and Dad.

Best regards.
Peter & Lu C – Christchurch (August 2019)

Dear Jemma and Kristin,

Janice and I had the most wonderful trip.

We really appreciated every single thing you did for us .

Everything went perfectly and Ljubljana and Lido were perfect and everything in between.

Our Sound of Music tour was amazing and perfect not moving every day and the Trafalgar tour guide and bus driver were fantastic and everyone had a wonderful time and loved it.

Everywhere we visited was great and all hotels perfect.

Villa Innes in Lido great and your instructions for getting there. All went well.

Cruise ports great and ship fine.

All flights just great, glad we not in Hong Kong still but lovely hotel and

Great transfers.

Flight home on best plane 350 -900 Air bus

Not even any swollen ankles as so munch seat width, Length and lie back and all seats had better lighting and bigger screens for me with terrible sight.

360edge rocks and you were a star Jemma.

We really want to thank you for organising everything and made it so easy for us xxxx

Marilyn K – Paihia (August 2019)

Hi Kristin

Thank you so very much for organising so efficiently and professionally for the boys. Much appreciated.

It’s going to be a wonderful experience for both of them .

Cheers
Kimi F – Epsom (August 2019)

Hi Kristin

Thanks so much for the welcome home note!

We had a fantastic trip, everything went smoothly, we even got upgraded to business on the Zurich to Dubai leg, what a treat that was, Molly was so excited!

Thank you for your help with everything, you and the team are fabulous.

Until next time…

Regards
Sarah H – Glendowie (July 2019)

Hi Kristin

Thank you for your lovely note.  We had a wonderful time with Chris and Pennie in Europe. All arrangements worked really well, thank you so much for all your work in putting it together for us.  I would mention a highlight but in actual fact, every day was a highlight! Puglia was delightful, Positano stunning, and the cruise took us to amazing and beautiful places.  As well, all our flights were on time and painless! So again, thanks so much for making it a special trip for us all.

Warm regards
Gloria D – Takapuna (June 2019)

Hi Kristin

We’re finally home, and so happy we got to see something of Doha due to the late flight. Thank you for contacting Tonya, we were having huge IT problems and were virtually out of contact much of the time.

We loved the holiday, and your suggestion of returning home via Paris was genius. We had a chance to pay homage to Notre Dame, who is in much better health than Christchurch Cathedral. And we enjoyed Paris’s Qatar business lounge, the best so far.

The big things I wanted to thank you for were the suitcase straps .. fabulous and unique, and so easy to find our cases.

Thanks again.

Regards
Trish and Jay R – St Heliers (June 2019)

Hi Kristin,

We got back home on Sunday night after a wonderful 10 days on Maui. Just wanted to let you know that everything went exceptionally well with no blips at all!!

Thanks so much for organising this trip for us. Hopefully there will be another to do for us a little later in the year.

Regards,
Anna R – Milford (June 2019)

Hello Kristin

June and I are back after a wonderful trip from Berlin through Poland and the Baltic States to Helsinki.

Malaysia Airlines was excellent particularly with the add-on for a European sector. As they are One World we are keen to fly with them again.

Many thanks
John K – St Heliers (June 2019)

Hi Kristin

Thanks for sending us a welcome home card. We had a great trip that had many highlights. As usual we are very grateful to you for the excellent and reliable documentation that you provided us with – everything we needed was there for us and it made our trip free of any concerns.

The Pacific Princess cruise was most enjoyable, even with more days at sea then we are used to. The ship’s smaller size was a bonus – not the crowds of passengers that often make larger ships a bit of a trial when accessing facilities. The two Mexican ports of call and Costa Rica and Aruba were all interesting but the highlight was certainly the day-long transition cruise through the Panama Canal.

Cuba was definitely a highlight. We had a guide for the first two of our three days in Havana. Bernie of Green Alligator Travel was excellent – knowledgeable and very experienced and one of the best guides that we have experienced. He took us around old Havana in a most interesting inner city tour in the morning and then on a car tour of the wider Havana area in the afternoon. On the second day he was very good in making the extensive Vinales trip a most pleasurable one. The Cueva del Indio (caves) visit was something not to be missed (very much on the same scale as Waitomo Caves) and lunch at a Cuban farm and a visit to a tobacco farm rounded off a great day out. Bernie said that he is one of around 300 guides but I would recommend him as having to be amongst their best. I’ve attached a couple of pages from the Green Alligator booklet, which was very useful in working out tips. Only cats and dogs appear to be immune from tipping! However, the stagnant Cuban economy and the USA trade embargo don’t make it easy for the locals, who are always cheerful and helpful but rather short on income.

The final few days of our holiday in New Orleans were also enjoyable. Having a hotel in the French Quarter was a plus as we were so near to all of the vibrancy of life, especially in the evenings. It was certainly hot and humid there but it is such a special place and not to be missed.

We haven’t any immediate plans for our next trip but it is likely to be back to the UK next year to catch up with all of Ceri’s family. We’ll get in touch when we’ve given more thought.

We hope that all is going well for the progress of 360edge.

Regards

Bill and Ceri G – June 2019 (Sunnyhills)

Hello Kristin and the fabulous 360 team

Craig and I have returned safely from Spain. The whole trip was a huge success. Wouldn’t have changed a thing.

Thank you amazing 360 team!
Leah S – June 2019 (Glendowie)

Hello we are home 😉

We ran the what seemed like 10km from terminal 7 to Tom Bradley International airport with 5 others to connect to nz5 . I heard them calling for me. I nearly wet my pants I was laughing and running and puffing .

Anyway just touched down in the city of sails.

Thanks for your help another reason one books through a travel agent. 🙂

Cheers
Ian and Linda T – Glendowie (May 2019)

Hi Kristin,

We had a fabulous time, thanks so much for the welcome home card. Would love to chat to you at some point and provide some feedback on our adventure, let me know how is best for you….email, phone, coffee??

Thanks so much once again for making this trip come together so seamlessly in such a tight timeframe.

Take care,
Michelle W – Glendowie (May 2019)

Good morning Kristin & Jemma,

Thank you both very much. I was presented with a birthday cake just before getting off the plane in Bali by an Emirates Hostess which I presume Jemma can be thanked for.

My 80^th seems to have gone on for 10 days!! Bali was an amazing experience. The Resort was beautiful and we couldn’t have wished for more. The young people’s rooms opening onto pool areas were great and Malcolm & my suite was amazing – we had all the family up on 2 occasions for drinks before going out for dinner and that was the idea of having the suite. It will be a holiday the family will never forget and they are already planning where we will go for my 90^th !!

I hope your holiday Jemma will be as exciting and as much fun as our trip was, am sure it will be.

Congratulations on your change of name for your business Kristin – what a major that would have been to make all the changes.

Thank you both again,

Kind regards,
Glenis P – Mission Bay (April 2019)

Kristin

Just a note of thanks for all the effort put in on our behalf – it has been bitty by us adding things here and there.  We do appreciate all you have done for us.

We I’ll see you after 7 June!

Celia M – Dannemora (April 2019)

Hi,

We’re back and had an awesome time.  Kids loved Ross’s Dress for less and we managed to bring back 11 additional pairs of shoes from a range of places along with lots else.  The Embassy was perfect with the breakfast/happy hours, the suite size just right and located near everything we wanted. We used local bus’s for lots of places including pearl harbour and Waikele and they worked well.  Thanks for all your tips.  Happy Easter, Pam

Pam T – Meadowbank (April 2019)

Many thanks Kristin. Great that it is all locked and loaded. Looking forward to a magic time with Mum and Dad.

The value added you have enabled is fabulous – thanks so much.

By the way the Castaway ‘extras’ you listed look wonderful too!

Have a great day.
Peter C – Christchurch (March 2019)

Thanks Kristin. All went well and the girls had a great time.

It was a surprisingly good thing to do in the last week of holidays, it really broke up the time and had the girls in a great place prior to returning to school!

Thanks again,
Cheers,

Heath S – Blenheim (January 2019)

Hi Jemma

Just wanted to thank you for all your assistance with our recent trip to Jackson. We had such an amazing time, great snow, skiing, food and company.

Kind regards
Philippa L – Remuera (January 2019)

Thanks so much Kristin,

We just got home tonight after a lovely trip. Thanks so much for all your organising!

Take care,

Hannah J – Glendowie (January 2019)

Hi Kristin

Happy New Year! We had a wonderful holiday thank you. Thank you for our lovely travel wallet, information and goodies. Air Tahiti was brilliant and thanks for our great seats.

In regard to the declined credit card notification, I think it was because we set a limit on our card with the ship. When we booked our excursions it went over the limit so we had to reset a new limit for the ship incidentals. The ship didn’t seem to have a problem with it for our expenses/excursions once we authorised a new limit with them. It’s a good system as you can keep control over ship expenses and it stops over-spending by husband and children too! Ha ha.

We did the Cabo Adventures Camel riding excursion in Cabo – I can highly recommend that and you can’t book in port, only on the ship as there isn’t time to organise once on land. It was brilliant – the ranch, nature walk, camel riding, meal, tequila tasting and transport were all included in the price and of the highest standards (10/10). The other excursion I can recommend is the Walking Tour in Puerto Vallarta, informative, interesting and you go to many lovely places that you wouldn’t know to go otherwise. The best places can’t be accessed by vehicle or bus tours, only on foot.

Thanks so much for arranging everything. We had a blast. Tom is hooked after his first cruise and we met others who recommended the Viking River Cruise (Budapest to Amsterdam) and also the Silver Seas (Dubai to Seychelles). We have added these to our bucket-list so will be coming back to you to organise those!

Thanks again for a fantastic holiday.

Corinne Y – Glendowie (January 2019)

Hi Kristin

Thank you so much for your welcome home card. Our cruise went very well with no problems at all.  The weather was reasonable throughout, and very good on a few days.  We were Happy with the ship and the itinerary, and especially lucky with our visit to Milford Sound.  It couldn’t have been better as the sun shone.  All the Americans on board were very impressed.  Later that day the clouds had come in for the visits to Doubtful and Dusky Sounds.  We happened to bump into an Australian couple who were on the Ovation of the Seas two days later.  They were unable to get into Milford and were very disappointed.  We enjoyed seeing NZ from a different point of view and found all the ports very worthwhile.  So thank you once again for all your work.

We’ll be counting down the months to our next trip now.

Ceri G – Sunnyhills (November 2018)

Hi Jemma

Just wanted to share a few pics of our amazing holiday. It was perfect and your itinerary easy to follow. It was a great family holiday. The weather was great most days low 30s. Happy not to see another hamburger or hotdog for a while haha. The family loved California Adventure Park and Universal Studios for the rides. My highlight was the Grand Canyon. The scenery was surreal. Photos don’t do it justice. The helicopter ride was worth every Penny.

Kids loved the label outlet stores too.

Bruce survived driving on the wrong side of the road. Poor guy had 3 female drivers telling him what to do haha.

Thanks again for help in planning our family holiday. We will again be using you guys in the future.

Thanks again,
Tanya C – Hamilton (October 2018)

Hi Kristin

We had a lovely time in Fiji and all arrangements went to plan, thank you so much for organising.  Gorgeous location and resort and we loved the family atmosphere and getting to know the local staff etc.  We had some great snorkelling, hiking and lots of relaxing and loved the spa and visiting the local village. Premier Economy was a lovely treat too! Unfortunately we only saw a couple of hours of sun while we were there and lots of rain however as the locals said that is the nature and it wouldn’t be so green and luscious otherwise!  All in all it was a lovely celebration and time out that we both appreciated!

Thanks Kristin
Regards
Sarah H – Glendowie (October 2018)

Good Morning Kristin

We are now back from holiday and had a great time so thanks for all your help.  We absolutely loved Vietnam.

Many thanks
Jan C – Glendowie (October 2018)

Hi Kristin

Just a wee note to thank you so very very much for the lovely picks of our hotels in Vietnam. Hotels de Arts was absolutely amazing with roof bar/ pool, unbelievable food and great location. Victoria hotel was so traditional but lovely. And Hoi An was just beautiful and the old town we just loved. Awesome place will definitely be back and up to Hanoi. We are just relaxing in Karon beach now.

Thanks again you are amazing!!!!!

Feeling happy and relaxed

Gerry and Jude P – Blenheim (October 2018)

Hi Kristin,

We had a great time in Fiji would definitely recommend the Hilton for families, the pools were the best in Denarau and our rooms were perfect location wouldn’t have been keen if they were further along, too far to walk!

Regards
Victoria H – St Johns Park (October 2018)

Hi Kristin,

Many thanks for your welcome home card, that was a lovely touch.

We returned in one piece (well two!) and overall the trip went very well!

One or two lessons learned – which just said to me “Get Kristin to organise the lot!” – who knew that getting a train from Annecy to Venice was “impossible!” [Said in your best French accent and accompanied with the correct amount of disdain!] And I am not convinced that they were correct but it’s done now! But we lost a day in Annecy to additional travel to make sure we made it to Venice in time. I was very disappointed as Annecy was THE place I wanted to visit and stay!

Puglia – I would like to write to the company that runs that tour – it was FABULOUS and Alessandro (our guide) was a real credit to their company, Italy in general and the Puglia region in particular.  His passion for history and the area really made the trip for us. I would thoroughly recommend the company as a tour company.

We were a small group – being the last trip of the season – with only 1 other couple and they had been on a tour with Alessandro 2 years ago – and really enjoyed it and recommended him. They have also been on another tour – same company, different guide – and enjoyed that as well. They were from Venezuela – and clearly travel a bit!

Singapore Airlines & the hotels you booked were excellent, as was the walking tour around Venice.

We had a great time and thank you kindly for all your assistance!!!

Kind regards,
Rebecca R – Panmure (September/October 2018)

Hi Kristin,

Thanks for your lovely card on my arrival home! What a thoughtful surprise.

I had an absolutely amazing trip – I loved Scandinavia and would love to explore more. It’s incredible. But I’d say the highlight of my whole time was Berlin. I think it’s replaced New York in my view as the most exciting city on the planet.

Thanks for helping to make my holiday so great, and totally hassle-free!

Warm regards

Jude H – Wellington (September 2019)

Got back – all went very smoothly !

Thank you travel agent extraordinaire

Margaret R – St Heliers (August 2018)

Hi Kristin,

Loving it! All sorted and found the stuff we had left behind so thanks for the email.

I would love to stay on and that seems pretty reasonable but I think we will just stick with what we had! I’ve woken up with a sore throat this morning and Elliott has blisters from universal studios (which was awesome!) yesterday so maybe it’s time to come home!!

We have had such a great trip so thanks so much! Hope it won’t be long before we are booking another one! Maybe in not as much of a rush, although maybe if it wasn’t we might not have gotten here at all!?

Thanks again,

Jen D – Thames (August 2018)

On a recent trip to Fiji with 4 other couples it was quite apparent that we had the best package, at the best price. We all booked the same resort. However we booked through Kristin, and the others online. We ended up with more.

Jacqui VK – Glendowie (August 2018)

This hotel in Hoi An is something else… omg paradise found.

After hustle bustle or Saigon we have stopped dropped and flopped and …. ordered cocktails

#livingthedream

Ian and Linda T – Glendowie (August 2018)

Hi Kristin,

The tickets arrived safely tonight. Thank you so very much – I’m so excited about my trip.

Thanks again for your wonderful service!

Warm regards,
Jude H – Wellington (August 2018)

Fantastic. Thanks for great service having everything organised for us just as we want it so promptly.

Cheers
Sylvia W – Remuera (August 2018)

Hi Kristin

Thanks for your welcome home card. We had an awesome trip. Bangkok was fun. England weather was above all expectations 26 to 30 degrees and it has such beautiful country side. I really enjoyed being there. The cruise was a wonderful experience. Reykavik in Iceland is a beautiful city to visit. Admittedly 9 days at sea because we couldn’t land at Easter Island was a bit long but nevertheless there was a lot to do on board. Next year we want to go to Buenos Aries with a couple of friends.

Ros M – Red Beach (July 2018)

Good morning Jemma

Thanks for your wee card, it was a lovely reminder to contact you regarding our wonderful trip – 10/10!!

• Air New Zealand bookings were great. Might try the sky couch next time we book. We tried to go into the auction to upgrade but weren’t successful. Still Air NZ is brilliant and the meals were great.
• Rosedale on Robson (think I’ve got the name right). Perfect location to get around Vancouver. Nice corner room with lounge, small kitchen etc. Great service.
• Vancouver brilliant. Lovely people. Great restaurants, areas such as Gastown, Yaletown, Stanley Park (even though I fell off my bike badly, but lived to tell the tale), Hop on Hop Off Park Tour we used to get over to Granville Town etc. We walked the Hop on Hop Off City Tour – great exercise. A wonderful city.
• If we had the choice again, wouldn’t travel in July school holidays.  Too many people but that’s a universal problem I guess.
• The cruise on Westerdam was brilliant. Having the starboard side with verandah was the best thing we ever did as we had perfect views from our deck of the glaciers in Glacier Bay. The service was exemplary (the ship’s best asset). Cabin steward, restaurant staff, everyone wonderful. Food delicious with 3 course fine dining every night, perfect. Cabins very nice with lovely flat screen tv we could blob and watch when sailing.
• Holland America are a well-oiled machine with very efficient systems to get us onto the ship at Vancouver, and leave the ship at Seward, onto the train and transport to Anchorage. The train trip from Seward to Anchorage was magnificent – 4 ½ hours through wonderful forests and lakes. Then courtesy buses to the airport via the “information centre?” not sure what that place was but it all went well. Bags at the centre to pick up and back on the bus to the airport. Brilliantly executed and stress free.
• Towns we visited, Ketchikan, Skagway and Juneau, lovely little towns. Totally reliant on big ships coming in to spend money.
• Alaska is a beautiful place with so much to offer. They have a rich history with their connection with Russia, the “First People”, totem poles, not unlike the Maori but way more sophisticated in their early years. Definitely worth the visit.
• Air Canada lovely airline to fly. From the time we arrived back in Vancouver from Anchorage, it took us one hour to get through customs, collect our bags and tax back to our lovely Rosedale on Robson.

Hope this all helps. Mark will probably want to add his comments. Thanks for all your help Jemma – it was a stress free holiday.

You’re brilliant.

Deb B – Glendowie (July 2018)

Dear Kristin

We’re back ….

Just wanted to drop you a note of thanks for all of the great arrangements.

We had a wonderful time and the choice of accommodation was excellent. At Aston Kaanapali we were very lucky to get a great unit that was top floor, actually had 3 bedrooms (so the boys could be kept apart) and had a great sea view from the balcony. The other benefit was the close proximity of a supermarket, less than 10 minutes walk from our room where we could stock up and purchase food for in-room cooking.

In Waikiki the Beach Tower was a great location with a stunning views that were unimpeded by other buildings. Straight out the front door, across the road and we were into the water! Waikiki is certainly a busy place but we found that we were at the right end and as you know everything is in close proximity.

Surfjack was a bit of a struggle as we didn’t arrive into our room until just after 11pm and a day of travel. The room was a 2 bedroom unit but the 2nd room for the boys only offered a double bed and interestingly no tea/coffee making facilities. Given it was only for the one night we didn’t mind and only needed a shower and bed but if/when we go back it’s not a hotel I’d consider.

All other arrangements were great, car rental and Roberts Hawaii transport worked out real good.

The Stars and Stripes tour was a must for first timers. Bit of a looong day and I would certainly recommend tour B as opposed to also getting the one that included lunch. Whilst we couldn’t get out onto the Arizona Memorial it was still good to be able to go out on a boat and go alongside both the Memorial and Mighty Mo. The bus trip with Punchbowl and some of the other sights was a bit too much after a day in the sun and walking around but still pleased we did it.

We did the 2 day hybrid tour with Oahu Private Tours. What an amazing experience and we made a real friendship with our guide Kenny. It was nice to do the tours with a few days in between. Would highly recommend them as a tour operator, especially for those like us who are keen to have a bit of activity.

The shopping …. well, we went up with 3 suitcases and came back with 5!. Thanks heaps for your recommendations and tips below. I think Leah found a lot of benefit in Ross for Less and we had a pretty exhaustive day (also on our wallets) at Waikele Outlet shops.

The food …. hard work, or at least we need to do more physical exercise to remove the weight we’ve gained. The Cheese Cake Factory was excellent but what stood out for us was Fleetwood’s and Pacifico restaurants in Lahaina.

Real highlights of the trip had to be swimming with turtles (on North Shore with OPT) and enjoying Lahaina township and snorkelling at Napili and Kanalau Beaches.

We had a great time and would seriously consider going back to Maui again.

As mentioned, all the arrangements were great Kristin and we were very happy and appreciative of our dealings with you.

Thanks also for the card to welcome us home.

Rest assured we will be in contact again for our next adventure. Leah and I currently planning with friends a trip to Spain and Southern France next year so all going well we’ll be talking again in the next several months.

Thanks again Kristin, take care.

Kind regards
Craig & Leah S – Glendowie (July 2018)

Hi there

We had a lovely trip to the Cook Islands – thank you so much for organising it so well. The Royale Takitumu is really nice and is run by a young French and German couple who couldn’t be nicer. We found that the food at the Little Polynesian hotel nearby was excellent (and walking distance). There is also a cafe in a beautiful garden not far (towards Muri beach but not actually there) that serves the most fabulous food (lunch) and the garden (7 acres) is beautiful. We drove round the island every day just because we could and I accidentally bought some pearl earrings that weren’t in the budget!

Really liked Aitutaki too – the hotel is gorgeous and the rooms are amazing. We did a couple of trips on the lagoon and David went bone fishing (salt water fly fishing) one day so we were pretty busy. Even went biking – not something I do well – I’ve still got a sore bottom!

Margaret – St Heliers (June 2018)

Hi Kristin,

Our Grand Canyon and Inside Passage Tour.

HIGHLIGHTS:

• Four Seasons resort at Scottsdale. The place and the people were wonderful. We had flowering cacti right outside our door. We were met at Phoenix airport by Tauck and driven to the resort in a Lincoln Continental.
• The Grand Canyon Railway ride was terrific. From Williams to the south rim, about 2 hours. Beautiful carriages, just a nice not to too fast speed, interesting country side and cowboys coming through the train.
• The dinner cruise on Lake Powell was nice.
• The raft trip through Glen Canyon on the Colorado river was superb. Again a great pace plenty of chances to gaze up at the wondrous scenery and look for birds etc. About 2 hours I think, then back on the bus.
• Both Bryce Canyon and Zion were spectacular. Absolutely breath taking.
• Four Seasons at Vegas was something else. Our room was pretty high up and we looked out over the pools and the airport. Just mind blowing for us, coming from NZ.
• The Tauck tour was excellent. Good bus, about 25 people, so plenty of room. Great tour director. Good not to have to worry about transfers and tips.
• The cruise was marvellous. First time on such a big ship. Great organisation with daily notices and welcome envelopes.
  We enjoyed all the towns we stopped at.
• Glacier Bay was special. The Captain stopped side on to the Grand Pacific Glacier for 2 hours, one hour port and one hour starboard. Clear blue skies. Saw a whale right by the ship that day too, and sea otters. We saw many ice falls from the face of the glacier.
• So glad that we chose to do this. The Tundra Wilderness tour magnificent. Excellent views of the mountain, clear blue skies again, and we saw grizzlies, moose, caribou, Dall sheep and a porcupine!! Wonderful day with a great driver.
• Last, but not least, the McKinley Explorer train trip from Denali to Anchorage was a wonderful day.
• Weather was wonderful the whole time. Only rainy day was in Vancouver after the cruise.

DISAPPOINTMENTS:

• After our train ride to the South rim we had lunch at El Trovar where the service was so slow we didn’t have time to eat.
• The Lake Powell resort was not of a good standard, but our tour director explained that basically it was the only place there.
• While we enjoyed the trip to the Mendenhall Glacier, we were left there for two and a half hours to fill in when one hour would have been enough.
• We were disappointed that we couldn’t do the White Pass Rail (at least I think that’s what it was called) trip because there’d been a rock fall on the line. However we were offered a bus trip on the Yukon highway, so instead of a bus one way and train back, it was bus there and back. We really enjoyed this. Just a small bus and great guide. We were also given a refund. And we saw a brown bear and 2 cubs right beside the road.

Overall, we had the most wonderful time. Way exceeded our expectations and we are so glad we went. The wheelchair request was a big help at the cruise terminal and also at Vegas and Houston airports. At Houston Roger was taken from the plane right through baggage/ immigration/customs etc to redo baggage new terminal right to the gate for Phoenix. All with a smile!

Thanks Kristin!

Jenny and Roger S – Taupo (June 2018)

Hi Kristin,

And we had a wonderful, relaxing and happy time in Fiji. Joanne and James were married on the beach in front of the Hilton Denerau.

The reception was also held on the lawn adjacent to the Maravu restaurant. The catering was sumptuous with enough food for twice the number present.

Then we rocked to a live band till ten when the noise curfew kicked in. The youngers moved to the Koro bar and us oldies turned in for the night.

A few bleary eyes at breakfast but no damage done.

The highlight of the holiday was the day trip to Malamala island twenty minutes away by ferry. There about ten o’clock and leave at five.

They only do a lunch menu but it was amazing, up there with the best. The chef said that because of the one meal they were able to concentrate on a superior experience.

And we were able to graze all day. The octopus and the chicken bites were the tops.

Otherwise we lazed away the holiday within the Hilton complex. Nice.

Colin M – Otorohanga (May 2018)

Hi Kristin,

Just wanted to say thank you for the welcome home card. Lovely to come home too.

We had a fabulous time enjoying sunsets, cocktails and family. Can’t wait to go back.

Lesley W – Cockle Bay (April 2018)

Hi Kristin

We had the most amazing time. Thank you to you and your team. Hotel selection was awesome! I think May probably would have been a better month to travel weather wise. In the northern cities it was very cold but thankfully didn’t have many days disrupted by rain. All the trees were just starting to bud and spring bulbs about to flower. April just worked with school holidays.

Will now have to start thinking about the next one. Hope your all well.

Liv M – Hamilton (April 2018)

Hi Lee,

I just wanted to say a huge thank you to you and the team there for the wonderful support of our event yesterday.

We are yet to have a final total on how much was raised but I can tell you it was more than we expected – which is fabulous. A big part of this will be down to the $500 travel voucher incentive for the donation prize, as we had 50 donation forms filled out – that s one in every two people that attended which is fabulous.

Please forward this message onto Kristin – and take on board the thanks to you for all of your support with this, you guys are awesome.

Courtney Keenan, Dementia Auckland (April 2018)

Hi Kristin,

I’m so happy you found the extra day for me! You’re terrific at tuning in to what the customer really wants. I’m so pleased to have the extra day!

Jude H – Wellington (April 2018)

Hello Kristin,

Thanks for your welcome home card and for all the work you did in arranging our travel arrangements – no mean feat as it turned out!

Here is a wee report:

Our whole trip turned out to be highly successful. Travel arrangements – no hitches.

The Affinity Cruises boat was fine (if a little cramped for non boaties – especially if you were also elderly), but they looked after us extremely well.

Food was excellent, and we were really given a good taste of the Marlborough Sounds. We saw all the interesting sights with good commentaries, and had lots of activities for the younger ones – Several long walks up to 3 hours in attractive bush, swimming from the boat (cold), fishing – with minor success.

As well we visited Motoara Island – a great bird sanctuary, Ship Cove where Captain Cook spent time, had a grand  Anniversary meal  at the Furneaux Lodge, and lots more For us, the best part was the fact that all of our grandchildren had a great time together.

So we have come home with great memories. Now as for our 70th ……………!

Thanks again for your big and rather complicated contribution. Just ring if you want more feedback.

Cheers
David and Claire R – Mission Bay (January 2018)

Hi Kristin

We are having the best time ever ! Thank you.

Adored Dubai and in particular that amazing Address hotel!! 3 days was perfect for getting time zone in sync. Saw and did masses.

Amy arrived safe and sound yesterday. Seats you booked us on Emirates were so good!!

Happy Christmas to you and your family.

Nicky and Jeff D – Remuera (December 2017)

Hi Kristin

Thank you once again for your efficient organisation of our trip and the excellent itinerary that was designed for Frances and I – another trip packed with amazing adventures.

I am still on information overload, however the highlights that come to mind immediately were Kuala Lumpur, made extra special by meeting up with my niece, a place I would love to go back to explore more.

Delhi, which was our introduction to India, where we had a super guide

Harry, who was very passionate & informative about history, weaned us into Indian culture and food too – he became the ‘benchmark’ for other guides. I think we were protected from the ‘culture shock’ as we saw a lot from the car window at first so by the time we were actually out amongst the Indian community we had become ‘aware’.

Varanasi, special because of the holy ceremonies we were able to be part of, stands out because inspite of its holiness, to me was so filthy dirty and smelly(an unholy comment I know)!

Of course the Taj Mahal was the most memorable experience, so beautiful, moving and my birthday present to me. Thanks again for the lovely cake and flowers (the cake became a decadent snack, dessert, supper for us both over the next days!) and that the hotel staff, guides and our driver were all aware & all wished me happy birthday – it made it so special.

Khajuraho temples’ erotic carvings were amazing. Our guide said he could ‘read’ his clients and decided we were broadminded! I had to buy a book as the camera couldn’t do justice to the detail and intricacy of it all.

Jaipur was a welcome 4 night stopover where we had more time and did think we were going to be ‘let out’ in the bazaar area, but no, our driver said we were his responsibility and he would be nearby. Just as well because the continual harassment by the shop people was overwhelming and not enjoyable shopping so we didn’t stay very long. We did find a small shopping centre next to the hotel and a there was a bigger one across the road which we didn’t get to as we were uncertain about crossing the busy road. The Diwali holidays had begun and it was interesting to see how it was celebrated over the week.

As we travelled across Rajasthan we noticed more agriculture, both mechanised and by hand, and that it was cleaner, more affluent by Indian standards. It was interesting passing through towns, seeing the locals at work etc and dodging the inevitable cows everywhere! Our driver stopped at Pushkar as I had read about the camel fairs. We enjoyed walking through the market area without the usual hawkers thronging around us.

Khimsar Fort Hotel was beautiful – we felt like royalty. Jaisalmer is remembered by the desert, the camel ride (thank goodness I had been on one before and was prepared) and a special desert sunset toasted by our guide with ‘Sprite’ as there was nothing else around! It was Diwali night so we took furniture out of our room to the corridor balcony and watched the fireworks.

Jodphur and its huge fort high up on the hill and the Bishnoi village were highlights – a lovely ‘senior’ lady welcomed us to the village giving us lots of hugs (we obviously related well in age). The Ajit Bhawan Palace Hotel, again we felt like royalty, had our own courtyard (and as we had located wine and nibbles we could sit and indulge by our fountain). Our driver recommended a lovely restaurant nearby called ‘On the Rocks’, which became our eating place for the next 3 nights.

Udaipur brought welcome mountain/lake scenery and our final night in India, dinner by Lake Picchola – beautiful ambience lakeside with the City Palace all lit up and reflecting across the lake and because we had actually been inside the palace that day it was even more meaningful.

Every place was different on our trip across N. India and even though I did say I was ‘over’ forts, palaces and temples, each had different features and I realise the importance of these during the past history of India. In a nutshell India is vibrant, colourful, hot, chaotic, fascinating.

On to Sri Lanka which was much more laid back, cleaner, semi westernised while retaining its culture. We had a lovely 12 days with a variety of activities. It was interesting learning about Buddhism compared to Hinduism in India. The cultural triangle Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy with Dambulla/Sigiriya was very interesting and we got to see the first of many elephants in their natural habitat. On Halloween night at the hotel in Kandy the staff pulled us in to join in with the celebrations so we danced off our meal that night. The tea and spice growing areas were fascinating and staying in the mountain area of Nuwara Eliya was a welcome relief from the heat, a beautiful area – I actually had to get my jeans and hoodie out!

Yala National Park was a wonderful experience and yes we did get to see an elusive leopard. Down to Unawatuna and the beach (yay I needed a beach fix) where unfortunationately we were both off colour and our wonderful driver/ guide decided we needed to rest up so postponed the Galle visit to the next day – we slept on & off all that day. I think tiredness had caught up with us, and because we were only a couple of days out from the long haul home we welcomed this respite. Next day we visited Galle, a quaint harbour village inside the fort walls, wished we had been staying there so we could have explored more, then on to the luxurious Mt Lavinia Hotel with its romantic history (and not so romantic as our driver told us next day). A relaxing end to another fantastic holiday.

Looking back now, we were so fortunate that our guides and especially our 2 drivers (Nittin and Yohan)who we got to know well, gave us so many unscheduled experiences and insights into life/customs in both India and Sri Lanka that it has made our knowledge and awareness of these places so much more special.

Now I need to read the books I bought and better understand all the information we gleaned over the 5 week trip.

Thanks once again for your part in another amazing experience – I think we will be calling you up in the near future …?

Janet W – Tauranga & Frances R – Otorohanga (Oct/Nov 2017)

Hi Kristin

We are sitting at the airport about to leave Melbourne. Just wanted to say thanks for working your magic, we got a lovely room upgrade and a cake to celebrate our wedding anniversary.

We have had a great long weekend away. And ate, drank and shopped our hearts out (just like how trips pre-children used to be!)

Would thoroughly recommend the Langham. We didn’t have a meal there but it really was so close to some great spots. Thanks again.

Vicky & Fraser B – Wellington (November 2017)

Hi Kristin

Just got back yesterday from France.

Had a fabulous time thanks. They were having unseasonably hot weather, which was fabulous. Last time I was in Paris it was grey and raining, so this was outstanding.  Hotel was in a great area opposite The Louvre.

We met friends in Paris, so got taken all over the place.  Walked between 15km to 22km per day. The TGV was great too.

Aix en Provence was gorgeous and I booked a day trip around Provence taking us to Pont du Gard and Avignon etc. Lovely day. We also took the train down to Marseille for the day to look around.

All in all, I had a fabulous two weeks away. Thanks for organising.

Regards

Jacqui V – St Heliers (October 2017)

Hi Kristin,

I have been meaning to send you an e-mail since we got back to say thank you once again for your wonderful planning and organisation.  Everything went off without a hitch and we had a great break away.  Both accommodations were spot on – locations were close to everything we wanted.  Thanks a million for your help.

Cheers

Denise and Den – Dargaville (October 2017)

Hi Kristin

We had a wonderful time in Bali and no worries about Mt Agung. Behaved itself while we were there. As soon as we landed it was out of our minds!

Everything went according to plan and it was nice to spend some time in Ubud. The Royal beach lived up to us name and your blow up ball was enjoyed by the guests. It’s still sitting in the pool for future guests to enjoy!

Thanks again for organising our holiday and we’ll be in touch when we decide where to go on our next adventure.

Best wishes

Tess Michael and Alex – Westmere (October 2017)

Hi Kristin,

Firstly, thank you so much for putting together a seamless travel experience to and from Fiji for myself and extended family.  All went smoothly and we had a fabulous time on the boat around the Yasawas….

Hope all is well with you.

Jenny F – Dairy Flats (September 2017)

Jemma,

Just a BIG Thank – you for all the organizing you did which resulted in an awesome and unforgettable holiday!  Everything was perfect!

The Oceania Cruise exceeded my expectations, the food, service, staff and along with land tours were awesome.

Thank you very very much!!

Have a wonderful summer,

Karla H – Canada (September 2017)

Hi Kristin

Thank you very much for your welcome home card and my birthday card.  How kind of you!  We are just about over jetlag but it seems to take longer sometimes than other for no particular reason.  Anyway we are pretty well caught up on everything at home now.

We had a great holiday. Everything went without a hitch, apart from our flight from Bristol to Paris, when we were put on standby for some reason. But it was soon resolved.  Our favourite destination was definitely Switzerland.  The Globus tour was excellent, as we did so many different things, the tour guide was very good (and patient) and we stayed in some great hotels with views of the Matterhorn from our window in Zermatt, and right on the lakeside at Montreux.  We would certainly recommend the tour to other people.  Just a mention of how much we enjoyed the Hotel Clerici in Milan.  It was nice to be in a small place (just 10 rooms), it was very central and we were able to walk to most of the main attractions.

Thank you once again for all your hard work.  We always know the arrangements you make will be spot-on.  We will be in touch when we decide when and where our next holiday will be.

Ceri G – East Tamaki (September 2017)

Dear Jemma

A huge and massive thank you for all the work you did for us for our trip to Italy. Your advice and planning was impeccable – the whole trip went without a hitch. Thank you for responding to all my queries and emailed so quickly and kindly. The circumstances leading up to the departure were trying and you were amazing.

Next trip we’ll be back.

Thanks again

Mary and Steve (September 2017)

Dear Jemma and the team at Kristin Edgeworth Travel

Thank you so much for all your help and expertise in getting our holiday sorted so well for us.

It couldn’t have gone better and we really appreciate all the effort that went into making it so special.

Looking forward to having your help for any future trips on the horizon (but we’ll give you more notice next time!).

Cheers

Amanda and Paul S – Glendowie (September 2017)

Hi Kristin

A big thank you for all the arrangements it went like clockwork. The sunrise resort and hotel equatorial were excellent value with all the extras like massage and high tea. The Shinta Mani hotel could not be faulted, the staff were really great and friendly with bottles of cold water when we walked out anywhere and a cold flannel when we got back. On my birthday four staff came to our room with a very nice cake all decorated and sang happy birthday while I blew out the candle. The tour guide was very good and looked after us.

I need a new passport for our next trip so as soon as I get this I will get back to you to book our fights and hotel in Singapore.

Kind Regards

Cliff C – Takapuna (August 2017)

Hi Kristin

I got the tickets and we are so excited to be on our way so thank you so much for booking all of these for us and we’ll certainly recommend you if someone else is looking for a travel agent.

Cheers

Andrea G – Wellington (August 2017)

Hi Kristin,

Thank you for your welcome back postcard.

Thank you too for booking everything. We had a great time. Weather was perfect and we all feel rested.

May be in touch again soon for help to organise Xmas holiday.

Take care

Regards

Jan G – Tamahere (August 2017)

Hello Kristin,

Thank you for your welcome home card. That was some great journey we had and the icing on the cake was being in Business Class with Emirates Team NZ – what a surprise. They brought home the cup and shared it with all on the plane and before you knew it they had all hunkered down and slept the whole trip home.  But, as we were about to disembark Peter Burling, sitting 2 seats behind me, stripped off his shirt – you can’t get more casual than displaying the Cup in your jandals either at the airport!

Venice, Malta and all the islands we visited were so special The Hotel Phoenicia in Valletta takes top marks for everything and has the most heavenly pool in the world. Hotel Welcome in Villefranche-sur-mer was another highlight and we would say to you to keep on recommending it to your clients. Not flash, but the position and so much of interest to see right outside the door. We watched Graeme Hart’s Sealegs come in each day to get provisions to take back to the boat anchored in the bay. Loved the man who went fishing each morning and brought his catch back to be sold below our window.

We were with Americans on both tours except for a couple from Christchurch on the yacht. Happy, friendly, interesting people all the way and the Tauck guides ran the trips as smooth as silk.

A seamless expedition thanks to your good planning

Thank you so much

I shall send some photos when I have myself organised – enjoy the school holidays

Robin and Roger B – Meadowbank (July 2017)

Kristin

I keep meaning to say the HUGEST thank you for organising our lovely trip away to Raro. It was amazing and I cried coming home! Back in to reality with a bang now but it was really lovely and the recommendation of a car was priceless. Thanks so much again,

Hannah and Dave J – Glendowie (July 2017)

Hi Kristin,

We had a fabulous time.

All accommodation was excellent and just right for what we wanted/needed. – location/amenities/cleanliness/staff helpfulness etc

All tours were great – although Kuranda Skyrail wasn’t operating and the alternative offered turned out to be slightly disappointing (notes attached)

We had one hairy ride with a shuttle van pickup from hotel to airport in Sydney (notes attached).

Rex survived/enjoyed the leap out of the plane.  His tummy got a little uneasy though near the end when the instructor started doing fast loop de loops.

I’ve typed up some notes, comments on some of the trips and have attached a pamphlet on Paronella Park and one on Mamu Skywalk. Both worth visiting.

Would I have changed anything on the itinerary? – no

Even the Port Douglas festival turned out to be fun – we got to watch the parade and have dinner afterwards with some new found friends from the Savannahlander trip that were passing through at the time.

So thank you for making the arrangements and ensuring we got best value for money and a good balance between sightseeing and relaxing.

Regards,

Helen L – Glendowie (July 2017)

Hi Kristin

Safely back yesterday and had a great time.

Both Rocky Mountaineer and UnCruise were excellent.

We were very spoiled on the boat with only 35 passengers. Canoeing, tramping and out on the Zodiacs.

Thanks for all your arrangements.

Cheers and regards

Chris K – Takapuna (July 2017)

Hi Jemma

It was wonderful! We had a fabulous time – largely thanks to your meticulous planning so very sincere thanks and congratulations on a job extremely well done.

Your programme was great – we got a bit cathedral-ed out but the locals were so proud to show off their golden glamour we just went along with it.

Iguazu Falls were magnificent – we had glorious weather and thanks to your planning got there early enough to avoid the later crowds. Rio was great – a bit of cloud later in the day but well up to expectations. Everything in Peru was wonderful though I was really conscious we were very ‘wealthy’ compared to the locals – super friendly people and keen to help anyway possible. We had befriended the hotel receptionist on our first visit to Lima and on our return visit she was so pleased to see us that she started to cry – we gave her hugs & discovered she was very upset about something awful that had happened and ‘we were like her mother!”

Lake Titicaca was perfect though the disparity in lifestyle and income was extreme. I couldn’t bear to bargain so paid what was asked – the people are so poor.

The Inca trail was a challenge – Jenn was fine, but I felt the effects of the altitude and despite having medication to deal with it spent the two hardest, steepest days feeling really nauseous and unable to eat. The food was fantastic but I couldn’t bear to eat it! Still had enough energy to achieve the trip in average times. In fact the young Danish couple – the only other people in our group were slower and struggled a bit though the girl had a sore toe. They left Machu Picchu early so we had our guide to ourselves for a very comprehensive tour.

The jungle was a shock! Everything went well and we were privileged to see 4 jaguar – the guides etc had not seen any for 5 months and some had never seen one so there was great excitement over that. The first 2 days were tropical but on the third the cold snap came up from Patagonia and the temps dropped! We had left most of our gear at the ranger station and only had lightweight clothing with us so 10 degrees was a bit of a shock. They gave us a second blanket and a hottie in our beds but it was still a bit chilly. Very funny to see people at breakfast wearing everything – mostly minimal stuff – they had! Saw lots of wildlife & creepy crawlies.

Loved the Galapagos. The water was cold but we still snorkelled & met lots of wildlife. The boat crew were great and the other passengers were too. Made a few firm friends to stay in touch with.

Our final night in Guayaquil was a surprise. The hotel was a bit 5 star for us lowly kiwis! We were checking in when the concierge offered us a bellboy to take our bags – I just said we were kiwis and used to doing it for ourselves and he laughed and gestured to the lifts with his arm. Super friendly – as was every hotel we stayed at.

We did take your advice and scaled the steps to La Penas – wonderful – everyone was out strolling and enjoying themselves. Lots started chatting – to practice their English mostly. We had absolute no trouble or ever felt threatened by anyone. We were fairly careful but never felt under threat at all. Went to the night market and came back to the hotel for a late swim. Perfect ending before we travelled the next day. Coming home was fine – the plane was late leaving but made up time on the way home.

The hotels and staff throughout were wonderful. Unfailingly polite and friendly is the best description.

Not a single problem with accommodation, driver pick-ups, flights etc so thank you very much for your meticulous planning. We did not really appreciate how much work you had put in until we were swept up in your efficiency. We could never have planned it that way ourselves.

Back home to work – and save for the next trip!

Huge thanks Jemma – you really did make it the trip of a lifetime.

Cheers

Linda C – Orewa (July 2017)

Hi Jemma

You are a magician! All your arrangements are so far running like clockwork. Loved Rio today and have to decide what to do tomorrow.

Thanks so much for your hard work and wisdom.

Cheers

Linda C & Jenni B – Orewa/Nelson (July 2017)

Hello Kristin,

Our journey on Ponant was truly wonderful and each day in glorious weather we set off for the shore to discover a new island. The local guides brought the history to life and were perfect for the job. Seeing the islands from the sea gave us a view that all the tourists on shore were not able to share – not a cruise ship in sight.

Mt Etna was smoking and Stromboli put on a fantastic display every seven minutes, lighting up the night sky.

We are now at The Welcome Hotel (lovely and interesting spot) and have settled in very comfortably and shall recharge our batteries after our full on time with Tauck.

A truly momentous and memorable trip, planned to perfection as always by Kristin.

Hope you are all well

Robin and Roger B – Meadowbank (July 2017)

Hello Kristin,

Well we are finally back on line thank goodness.

I shall go through our itinerary roughly just to give you some feedback.

We had a great flight with AirNZ to Houston and the Royal Sonesta Hotel was very comfy. A good place for a relaxing stop over.

We had a good overnight flight to Frankfurt, with a 1hr25min time for a plane change. Even though we stayed in the same terminal we still had to go through security and customs again and the staff were very grumpy. Had to take our shoes off. Then we had to walk about 3km to gate 64! They were boarding when we arrived and they put us on a bus! Then a good 1hr flight to Prague. We had a really good ride into Prague and loved the K&K hotel. Lovely breakfasts and we enjoyed the hop on hop off bus tour and loved Prague. Would have liked an extra night there. We had a good train ride to Budapest and it was good to have our tickets already and to know which carriage and seats we were in. They didn’t put up the platform number until 10 min before departure time so that was a bit of a scramble. Arrived pretty well on time and got a taxi to the boat. On board about 5.30pm. So it all worked out well.

The river cruise was way beyond our expectations. They really pampered and looked after us. Wonderful, and we are so pleased that we did it and that we chose Avalon.

We loved our 2 extra nights in Amsterdam too. Hotel JL NO76 was super. We had a beautiful room and it’s a great location. We could have had another couple of nights in Amsterdam. The British Airways flight was good, helpful staff checked us in early. Arrived at the Citadines and all was well. Fantastic location and we happily got a pub meal and Oyster cards! We enjoyed the Premium Tour in London. A great guide and we even saw the rehearsal for the Trooping of the Colour down the Mall. Just magic for us kiwis. The train trip to Bristol was good. Helpful staff at Waterloo printed out our tickets for us. There is a lot of roadworks and building going on in London. We loved Bristol and are so glad we went. The hotel was gorgeous and our lovely room overlooked the river. Quieter than London. Lots of history in Bristol, bit sad to leave there. Good train ride back to London, though it was pretty full by the time we got back to Waterloo. Then we had a lovely week relaxing at the Cavendish and visiting parks & museums. Unexpectedly hot, temps around 30deg till the day we left. Jermyn Street was interesting, our room looked out at Fortnum & Mason and there were very select menswear shops all along the street.

The City Transfer to Heathrow was fine, but we arrived there to find our Lufthansa flight had been cancelled and were told to join the queue to be rebooked. So 1hr 20min later we get to the head of the line to be told that we had already been rebooked (by Lufthansa) on a direct flight to Hong Kong with Cathay Pacific. We got to Terminal 3 and checked in. Helpful staff. A good flight and good not to have to change planes at Munich. We were lucky. The transfer was easy and the Eaton Hotel was comfortable for the 3 nights. We were pretty jet lagged. The tour that we did was good, with a great guide. Shuttle to airport was good as was the flight home with Air NZ.

What a great holiday we had and super places to stay.

Thanks Kristin,

Best regards,

Jenny S – Mangatarata (July 2017)

Hi Jemma

We are having a great time! Just arrived in Iguassu and resting up before tackling the town.

We missed the Santiago / BA connection as plane was late but transferred to next flight ok. All the arrangements you made have been perfect so far – nary a hitch so thank you so much for all your work. The Tango night was amazing – much better than I ever thought possible.

We have booked for the boat trip under the falls tomorrow.

All our drivers have been helpful & chatty & tell us good things to do.

Just loving everything so long may it last.

Huge thanks

Linda C & Jenni B – Orewa/Nelson (June 2017)

Kristin – thank you for your enthusiasm and expertise, Very much appreciated.

Robin and Roger B – Meadowbank (June 2017)

Jemma

Tx so much we got here at this fab hotel … they are so lovely here and it is such a gorgeous place!!!

So impressed with hotel choices all way through .. great job !!! This is just new and small and intimate .

Many Tx ..

Sudy K – Remuera (May 2017)

Hi there,

It was a great trip, with everything going to plan. Only a few hiccups on the trip back, mainly due (I think) to people thinking that Melbourne and Auckland were in the same country. We were told we had to pick up our bags in Melbourne, but of course we weren’t supposed to be entering Aus, so I didn’t get the arrival card etc. Not sure if we should have been allowed to check bags all the way to Auckland, but it didn’t happen so just caused a few problems! Minor I know, and that probably shows you how well everything else went!

We were very lucky to have an emptyish plane form Dubai to Melbourne, so were able to stretch out. Have to say that flight form Melbourne to Auckland was like a sardine can by comparison – yuck!

We really enjoyed every place we went to – a stand out from an accommodation perspective would have to be Tarr Farm Inn – that was exceptional. Really recommend for anyone wanting a retreat.  All other accom was excellent location and just right for what we needed at each spot.

While enjoying the ancestry stuff I did, we also thoroughly enjoyed the touristy things we did – Game of Thrones, Titanic, Harry Potter, Stuttholf Concentration Camp (not enjoyed but you know what I mean), look around Nuremburg – all a really good mix.

We had a great time eating and drinking all the local delights, now need to work it all off!

Kind regards

Sherry L – Hamilton (April 2017)

Hi Jemma

We did appreciate your welcome home card & we had a great holiday. New Orleans, Memphis & Nashville were so Vibrant – the food, people & music were amazing & Chicago is a great City. Waikiki was very relaxing & the weather great.

Many thanks for thinking about us

Sue & Graham – Whenuapai (April 2017)

Hi Kristin

Olivia and I just wanted to send a quick email to say thank you very much for all your help.

Everything went to plan and we had a great time.

I am sure we will catch up at some stage and we can fill you in on the details.

Thank you Kristin

Regards

Nathan & Olivia B – St Heliers (April 2017)

Hey Jemma,

We just want you to know we are safe back in NZ again.

Everything was perfect, especially the Octopus Resort! It was a really wonderful Trip- thank you so much! you did a really Great job!!

Again, thank you very much and all the best!

Regards

Max & Veronika – Austria (March 2017)

Kristin,

Just thought we’d let you know how delighted we’ve been with Le Petit Hotel. The surroundings were more than adequate, the locale great, but the staff were beyond compare!

Regards

Adie P – Titirangi (October 2016)

Hi Kristin

Many thanks for your welcome home card.  We had an awesome time in Hawaii, all our flights were good no hiccups at all.  Embassy Suites was just perfect for us, everything was just all so convenient and easily to get to.  Yes I did go to Ross’s not once but twice and bought a lovely selection of clothes and of course shoes, we had to buy another bag to bring everything home.

Thank you very much for organizing our trip to Hawaii for us it was a very special time we had.  We sure would love to do it again but guess we’ll see how things are going further down the track.

Kind Regards

Mary and Peter S – Masterton (October 2016)

Hi Kristin

I am back!  Such a great holiday with lots of amazing things to see.  Italy has so much history (which I not familiar with), but it was great to see all those places that have been part of pictures for so many years. I even trudged up the hill to Emperor Tiberius mansion on Capri.

Thank you for the welcome back card.  I had been feeling guilty as I did not acknowledge receipt of the tickets before I went.  I thought about it several times while away too!  I read through all the information a couple of times and was confident everything was clear……..and it was as everything just fell into place as planned and the appropriate people were in the right place at the right time.  I was the only Kiwi of the 37 travelers, one Canadian coupe, about 10 Australians and the rest American.  Three of us had paid the single supplement.  A good group.

So thank you for all your efficient work.  Until next time….

Jenny P – Tauranga (October 2016)

Thank you and your team for organising our recent trip. We had a wonderful time and everything went according to plan.

Southern Italy and Sicily were great, fabulous food and such interesting history.  London as enjoyable and comfortable as always.

Until the next trip!

Cheers

Rosemary D – St Heliers (September 2016)

Hi Kristin,

Thanks for your card yesterday. That’s very classy and thoughtful of you!

We had the most wonderful holiday and absolutely loved Italy.

Thanks so much again for all your help, and for getting such great flights for us.

Thanks from

Jude H – Wellington (September 2016)

Hi Kristin

A huge thanks also for your help in setting up the Vietnam holiday – what an amazing experience!  It exceeded my expectations on every level and Michelle and I will definitely go back there some day (maybe without kids!!).  Hoi An was my favourite, although I reckon with all the development going on between there and Danang, it runs the risk of becoming overrun by tourists in the not too distant future.  Halong Bay was probably the only “disappointment”, but only really because you have such high expectations and no brochure ever shows you quite how many boats and tour operators are out there!!

Please also pass on our thanks to the local travel company – everything ran smoothly, and the guides were great.

Thanks again!

Phil & Michelle S – Glendowie (September 2016)

Hi Kristin

Just a note to thank you for organising our trip to Samoa. As well as being lovely and WARM which we wanted we had a great time exploring the islands and swimming .We did look at other resorts as we drove around but none of them measured up to Aggie Grey’s resort. Its proximity to the airport was a bonus  The spaciousness and the facilities were  as we expected and the staff very friendly / helpful.  We would highly recommend it  Next year we will probably take our grand daughters and their parents there so no doubt we will be in touch again.

Thanks again

Regards

Ros and Bill M – Red Beach (August 2016)

Thank You

Thank you so much for our lovely gift filled parcel with our tickets. It was a beautiful surprise. I know we are going to use everything that was in the parcel. The plug was real special as all the children will have their tablets. We are all quite excited now.

Thanks again

Regards Lois

Lois W – Hamilton (September 2016)

Hi there Kristin and Jemma

Back from Fiji and it was great.  Weather was good, so that helps of course!

Highly recommend the beach club at the Sofitel.  Rooms are okay, (bathroom on the small side), but the beach club is fantastic. Feels like a small separate resort.  Excellent service and facilities.

Thanks for your help and advice, we’ll be back.

Best regards

David – Whitford (August 2016)

Hi Kristin,

We will need to hit the ground running when we get home on Wednesday so I am emailing a quick note while we are waiting to board the plane in San Francisco.   The trip was a great success and there is nothing we would materially change. To be fair we could have quite easily added more weeks to the trip but alas things need to be sorted at home.

Accommodation, the absolute stars were the Welcome Hotel and Taj Compton. Both are superb and the customer service they offer is outstanding.  Closely followed by Le Mainor Des Impressionists’.   Honfleur and Villefranche-surMer are fantastic places to visit. We could have spent lots more time in both.  Best Restaurants, St Germaine in Villefranche, Waterbar in San Fran, both superb. But to be fair we ate at lots of fab places.

Car, the lease thing works really well. The 308 was ideal, we would not get anything bigger, Frog roads get very narrow.  The GPS generally works well but I suggest you recommend to clients that they have a backup option like google maps on their phone.

The car GPS could not find the hotel in Marseille. If you don’t have a backup option the Froggie drivers will get very impatient with you as you meander through the streets trying to find your destination.

Marseille is not a great place to visit, it’s the only time on the trip we felt uneasy. The Intercontinental Hotel is excellent though.   Loved the TGV.  Trains and busses are the way to get around in France once you have got to your destination. The return trip by bus from Cavalaire to Saint Tropez was only slightly more expensive than what car parking would have been, and a lot easier to manage.

This lot may help some of your future clients. I know we really appreciate getting any first hand info.

Thanks again for all your help, it was a great holiday.

Kind regards

Andrew H – Remuera (June 2016)

Hi Kristin

Just getting back to you to let you know we had a fantastic holiday away in Croatia. It all went smoothly, no troubles with the rental car and driving on the right side of the road!  The food was amazing (as backed up by the scales telling me that I definitely didn’t starve)and we pretty much saw all we needed to see. Caught up with extended family, saw the family land and where all my ancestors were laid to rest, and that was all i had intended to do.

Warren had a great time too and complimented you on our travel plans. So thank-you

Will now have to start planning for the next one.

Many thanks

Paula D – Grey Lynn (June 2016)

Hi Kristin

Loving our holiday Singapore was a great first stop,very hot thank heaven for the hotel pool. Croatia is amazing we are really close to everything here in Split our hotel balcony overlooks the sea we watch the ferries  coming &going. Enjoyed both the bus tour & walking tour with Monica we had her all to ourselves she is really passionate about her job.The Diocletian Palace is an interesting place so much history &also many shops &homes within the walls.We are enjoying the walks the people&the food. Have booked a bus to Dubrovnik on Thursday as suggested we have seats on the right  side ….Anyway just wanted you to know we are extremely happy with all the late changes made so Thankyou Kristin from two of your biggest fans xx?

Alli J – Matata (May 2016)

Hi Kristin

Thanks again for your help – so many people tell me that in this day and age, we should be able to plan and book our holidays (online) ourselves.  Personally, we feel there is just no substitute for having the help of a professional, and every trip you’ve done for us, has included something that I know we would not have found had we tried to do this ourselves!!

Phil S – Glendowie (April 2016)

Hi Kristin

We had a great trip, everything was suberb, accom. plus cruise. I can recommend at Atlantic Hotel, Fort Lauderdale, room 801—-it was huge, 3 bathrooms, kitchen with new furnishings, separate lounge, bedroom plus the main bathroom had a hugh shower with 2 shower heads, (1 at each end) you could have put the complete All Black Team in there at once! It also had a large deck overlooking the beachfront.There was a closed interconnecting door which obviously contained more bedrooms. Hotel Mazurin in New Orleans was a great location.  Only 50 meters from Bourbon St but you couldn’t hear any noise from our room No.213.  It also had 2 bars, one of which called the “21st Amendment”which featured great jazz bands etc.

Altogether,we had a great time.

Regards,

Grahame & Faye L – Meadowbank (April 2016)

Hi Kristin

I have arrived safely back in New Zealand after a few lovely extra days in Bali.  Thank you so very much for your help while I was there, it was a life saver to have you at the end of the email with your experience, help and advice.

I am planning another trip next year and will definitely be using your services again.

Have a lovely weekend

Stephanie E – Wellington (July 2015)

Hi Kristin

A quick hello to let you know our fabulous adventure was basically flawless! Everything went according to plan and the choices of flights, accommodation etc were just perfect.

THANK YOU SO VERY MUCH!

We had the most amazing time together and have the photos to prove it but don’t worry – we’re not going to make you sit in front of our ipad and look through them all with us!!

Regards

Deb & Mark B – Glendowie (May 2015)

Thanks for the tips, they were really useful. We had an excellent time in the US. I’ll have to show Natalie my Mickey T-shirt, so cool. Hope you had a good school holidays as well.

Many thanks.

Richard – Glendowie (April 2015)

Hi Kristin

Thanks for organising such a wonderful holiday for us. We had a great time, even though I was in a moon boot for the whole trip!

I hear my sister Louise has been in touch with you – she is very excited about her upcoming adventure in Oz

Best regards

Wendy – Glendowie (April 2015)

Hi Kristin

BEST RESORT EVER!!

Just wanted to put that up front in case you were concerned I was going to do a rant.

People friendly and lovely, food terrific, got upgraded to a humungous villa so we had separate rooms, our own pool, our own villa mama and villa buddy – I mean it was rock star and a bit over whelming to start with but we adapted quickly. There were only a few people there so we had full run of the place and we worked it. Truly a very special place.

Unfortunately 2 hours after arriving I slipped into the pool gutter while exploring the garden and hurt my foot – got a doctor in the next day, had some crutches – everyone fussed over us – went to A&E today and turns out it was quite a bad break – so now I feel hard core – guess I was in the right place for it!!

Would be nice to take the kids back there one day – let us know if any specials ever come through….

Pippa L – Westmere (March 2015)

Hi Kristin,

Thank you for your phone call. We both thoroughly enjoyed our time in Tahiti. One week was definitely a good amount of time to go.

Everything you organised for us went all to plan and we had no hiccups along the way.

With out turning this into a novel, it was an awesome holiday and we did come back feeling very refreshed.

Thank you for all your help and hard work putting our itinerary together and organising everything. There is no way i could have done it myself!

Ambah M – Hamilton (February 2015)

Hi Kristin,

Happy New Year

Thanks for the card.

The trip went very well thanks without any hiccups. Interesting group of folk in the G-Adventures group. A good balance of old and young.

I loved the chaotic frenzy of Saigon (as the locals still call it). People, scooters, bikes, traffic everywhere. Yet in the whole time I was away I only saw 2 very minor traffic incidents. The trip to Cu Cui was well worth it. The War Remnants Museum put it all into context. The s*&t those poor people were put through. Will we ever learn?

Cambodia provided the highlight of the trip. To stand in the middle of 400 sq kms knowing that I was surrounded by 300+/- temples was mind-boggling. I learned so much about the region – the mix of Hindu and Buddhist was something I hadn’t appreciated before. I also hadn’t appreciated that Cambodia/Kampuchea had originally included what is now Thailand, Laos, and South Vietnam. But that is why I travel – so much to see, so much to learn. I could not bring myself to photograph the display of skulls at the Genocide Memorial. I felt like I was intruding.

Even though I have in the past visited some of the sights in Bangkok (1986) everything looked different so it was very worthwhile spending a few extra days there. Our G-Adventures guide arranged to meet a few of us on his day off to show us more of the city. We certainly saw more than if we had done this on our own. Great guy/guide and I have noted this to G-Adventures.

I love KL. What an amazing city. The Petronas Towers provided an excellent view. Took me awhile to get oriented but this was made easier when it was explained to me by the hotel that there is a covered walkway from Pavilion (5 mins walk from hotel) to Petronas. I also connected with a young English couple whom I shared a cab with from the airport. I spent some time with them and we were able to help each other with directions etc.

Jakarta is a huge commercial city and I struggled a little to balance the commercial with the cultural. The National Monument provided one aspect of culture but with it being a public holiday the queue to ascend this was 4 hours long. I opted for more commercial and explore more of the central city. A slight issue with the hotel but sorted by the next day. They initially wouldn’t give me the key for the room unless they took an impression of my credit card as the room hadn’t been paid for. I showed them the booking confirmation and they agreed to check with management. By morning it was all resolved.  Slips into “minor” when I recall some of my other travel incidents – all part and parcel of travelling through the exotic parts of the world.

I now have 576 photos, and a wad of souvenirs, to sort out and add to my travelogue. This is what keeps me occupied on those long winter nights.  This is what I take away with me, make copious notes daily recording my memories, then update it when I get back. Another “work-in-progress”.

You have made a significant and extremely appreciated contribution to my “World Tours”, which I acknowledge without reservation. Are you ready to work on the next one? I think I am.   It’s already creeping around in my mind even though it’s 18 months away.

Thanks for everything Kristin. My travel broker of the decade.

Donald C – Tauranga (January 2015)

Hi Kristin,

Thanks for email. think we will be ok with allowance we have and will do check in shortly.

Having a wonderful time, lovely to be together as a family again. London is spectacular at night, the lights and festivities are truely amazing. Hop on tour is great, a good glimpse of london where you can choose to explore further or just continue riding on the bus.

Shopping is excellent, Georgia having been here has short tracked things and knows the best places to shop.

The Ascott is fantastic, location is perfect. Has an old world charm to it.

Take care, Merry Christmas to you and your family.

Kindest regards

Lesley W – Cockle Bay (December 2014)

Dear Kristin

I have been home now for a few days and have been able to share our holiday with friends and family – photographs have come out fantastically well.

Thank you for your thorough organisation of our holiday.

The Pan Hotel in Athens was perfect, central and right in the heart of the city. We spent the Saturday “hopping on” and “dropping off” the Red Bus and saw a good deal of the city.

The sailing holiday was great and Sailing Holidays highly recommended. The lead crew were well organised and everyone very friendly. Jamie gave us our destination each morning and we had the day to get from one mooring to the next, often anchoring for lunch at a lonely beach along the way – Fiona is a competent and relaxed skipper. Most afternoons I went off for a walk on my own, seeing a good deal of the villages nearby to where we were moored.

The bus trip back to Athens was interesting and again the Holiday Inn perfect for our needs – hot shower, comfortable beds (not that Freya was not comfortable) and close to the airport.

The Athens to Rome to Genoa flight went without a hitch and we caught a train on to Santa Magherita – train travel in Italy is efficient and not expensive. The Cinque Terre came up to expectations and although part of the track which follows the coast is still closed, there are many alternative tracks allowing walkers to get from one village to the other. The train trip from Monterosso to Milan was ‘direct’ in so far as we did not get off the train, comfortable and interesting.

Then the final step homeward for me. Ibis Centro is indeed a stone’s throw from the station. Wednesday morning Fiona left the hotel room early, I had a later breakfast and then spent the day in Milan, what an interesting city. Although the Malpensa airport is some distance from the centre of Milan, buses run regularly to and from the central station to the airport. I collected my bag from the Ibis and made my way to the airport early evening. Then the long flight home.

It was a wonderful experience Kristin and again many thanks

Margaret – Howick (September 2013)

Hi Kristin

We are both safely back home and have had a wonderful trip. All your arrangements for us worked well and nothing went wrong. The hotel we stayed at in Athens was great because it was right in the centre of the city so we could walk to everything. The flight to Corfu was good with no problems. Our sailing fortnight was fantastic. I am so proud of myself that I managed that without getting into any strife! Getting from Genoa to the Chinque Terre proved easy as the Italian trains are great and very regular. We used them a lot while in Italy. The walking tour you booked us on was very good with accurate information. The hotels, particularly the one in Monterroso were great. We thoroughly enjoyed our Italian adventure. Getting to Milan by train from Monterroso was also very easy. We thought we would have to change trains at Genoa but the train went directly right through. The Milan hotel was within walking distance of the railway station so that was convenient.

My trip to Malta for my daughters wedding was wonderful. We had sunny weather the whole time. The wedding was a great success with the two families getting on really well. I would recommend royal Jordanian airlines, they are quite superior. The Jordan tour was also good, we were well looked after by our guide and driver. I felt so sorry for Jordan. Their tourism takings are down 80% and yet they are a very safe country. The low numbers were good for us though as there weren’t the crowds at Petra. I enjoyed my day by myself in Dubai. I took the Hop on, Hop off bus. I got on the bus at 9 am and got off at 5.30 pm. During the day I left the bus to go on a river cruise, visit a beach and a museum. The bus was air conditioned and had audio guides in a number of languages. It cost 220 Dubai currency which was very good value.

Lovely to be back home as seeing other countries is great but there is no place like home.

Thank you so much for all the work you did for us Kristin

Best wishes

Fiona – Pakuranga (September 2013)

Hi Kristin,

We had an absolute ball thanks!!!  Although going to see the America’s Cup wasn’t the purpose of our trip, we ended up watching 6 races.  It was amazing being there.  Just a shame Team NZ couldn’t win that last race.  But exciting all the same. The weather was great the entire trip.  Some other highlights were:

Alcatraz Island

Lunch outside on the top level of Macys in Union Square, San Francisco

Ferry rides from Larkspur into San Francisco and back again (what a lovely bay)

Wine tasting in Sonoma and the Napa Valley

Brother-in-laws wedding in Las Vegas, by an “Elvis” impersonator (what a hoot)!!

Shopping  in both San Fran and Vegas

The fountains and dinner at the Bellagio in Vegas

Only one tip really:

I got a multi-currency cash passport from the ANZ bank (www.cashpassport.com) which allowed me to load money onto the card via online banking and have my default as US dollars (I think there’s about 9 different currencies available).  This was great because I didn’t have to worry about exchange rates, and could keep track of my spending really easily.  I knew exactly how much I had spent on it each day.

Thanks for everything.  I will be in touch again as I am hoping to plan a trip to France and Italy next year.

Cheers,

Tracey – Hamilton (September 2013)

Dear Kristin

I just wanted to say that my trip to Shanghai worked out very well. My English speaking guide was excellent and she looked after me very well, including choosing her favourite places for us to lunch.

I visited all the places listed and really enjoyed each place, especially the silk museum, the Bund and Xintiandi (the French area) and the oriental pearl tower, where you walk around on the glass floor and look down at Shanghai below.  I particularly enjoyed the Propaganda Poster museum but my favourite place had to be Yu Gardens – so old and so beautiful. A lovely surprise was the dancing in the parks at night, all sorts from Latin American, to the Foxtrot and waltz, to hip hop and Tai chi – I loved it! The Maglev was an amazing experience too.

The hotel was lovely also, very spacious, beautiful décor and courteous and friendly staff.

Kind regards and thanks for everything,

Adrienne S – Glendowie (September 2013)

Talofa Kristin,

You beat me to the game here – I was meaning to say a big ‘thank you’ for organising our holiday and making it so easy.

We had a lovely time and the arrangements were perfect. It was an ideal place for the three of us as you had suggested. It was so  relaxing that I even forgot my password to log into my computer at work

To Erica and myself in particular the kindness of the hotel staff stood out. She and I were the only kids in the kid’s club and the ladies looked beautifully after us. We learned Samoan dancing, weaving and now know how to stoke an umu. The activities coordinator went the extra mile to show Pauli how to climb a coconut tree. Crab racing became a family game. And when I fell sick the last night the reception staff let me stay in the room without extra charge until the shuttle picked us up (maybe my only smallish grudge –  the food hygiene – but I understand new management is on its way in). Our room was perfectly located for easy access to the pool – thank you for organising.

Fa’afetai,

Barbara B – Glendowie (September 2013)

Hi Kristin

I have received all my documents today thanks.  You have certainly included plenty of info to read up on. I know my way around the city, some train/tram lines, but the maps will be a great help when we go exploring! The Great Ocean Road and surrounds map looks easy to follow – we hope! Thanks for all the organisation again, much appreciated. Count down is on…….

Regards,

Janet W – Tauranga (September 2013)

Dear Kristin

Thank you so very much for all your superb organisation for our Tahitian trip – all was just super.  We also loved your idea of spending two final nights at the Tahitian Intercontinental in Papeete – it was lovely.

Thank you again from us both as we do hope you can look after us for all our future travels!

Warmly

Craig and Rosie A – Ramarama (July 2013)

Hi Kristin,

I just wanted to say thank you again for all the wonderful planning you did for our holiday in Hawaii.

We had a really relaxed fun time together.  It was so warm and sunny the whole time. Great hiring the car and leaving the Waikiki scene to explore the rest of the island. Giovanni shrimp truck meal was delicious and a good recommendation for other travellers.  Waimea beach was divine, lanakai beach was lovely too.

All in all a great family time.  Out kids surfed lots and shopped lots and gee can they eat!!

Thanks again for your great advice and patience.

Regards

Brent & Gina W – St Heliers (July 2013)

Hi Kristin

We are presently at the Royal Hotel on La Rambla and you could not have put us in a nicer hotel or spot.  It is fantastic and what a great city.  Thanks for the recommendation. We did the Highlights Tour which gave us a grounding on the City and yesterday we did a full day tour up to the Costa Brava.  Big day but worth every Euro.  Today we are doing the Antique quarter and catching the metro to the great Barcelona Stadium and having a general meander around.

Got the up date on travel thanks.

All plans are working perfectly.

Regards

Keith and Barb – Tauranga (July 2013)

Hi Kristin

Just wanted to let you know that your bookings and arrangements of all the various journeys we are doing, has been superb. Everything has worked brilliantly and the documents are all so chronologically arranged, it is a pleasure..

Thanks – you have done a great job!

Heather and John G – St Marys Bay (June 2013)

I know you like a review of holidays so I’d reckon to get in front of you. All in all this was a great and spectacular holiday. It ticked all the boxes and left us with great memories. Thank you for doing all you did and re-asserting your position as the Number One holiday planner!

1. The guides were magnificent, the best we have come across. They were intelligent, fluent, fun and flexible. They filled in any gaps in the day creatively – Chinese opera, Chinese massage (yes, it was a group one for 1 1/2 hours and nothing like Fort Street!), watching sturgeons etc. We would particularly pick out Cristina in Beijing and Cindie in Guilin.
2. The hotels were great!
3. The food was good to great and particular mention should made of Troy in Pingyao who ordered dishes we had not experienced and asked/suggested courses which made for gourmet experiences.
4. Every trip was made in comfortable dormobiles with incredible drivers, most of whom seemed to be a Mr Wong!
5. Greetings and departures were immaculately handled with a smile whatever the time of day. They checked in our hotels and travelling plans so it was seamless.

So in all, thoroughly recommended. China is the place to go.

Dick A – Epsom (May 2013)

Hi Kristin, I received all the documentation today.  It looks amazing and thank you so much for organising everything for Barb and me.  I am now very excited and looking forward to seeing Barb again.

Keith – Tauranga (June 2013)

Hi from Rapid City. Just love our hotel Kristin  . It’s very new and excellent amenities. Would highly recommend . Your advice to have 3 days here was spot on. You are a wise woman. Tomorrow we have our tour of Mt. Rushmore . Hope you and yours are all well. God bless Stuart and Janet H – New Plymouth (June 2013)

Hi Kristin, Thanks a lot for arranging my trip: as smooth as ever! All the very best to you, a lot of loyal customers . Kind regards, Olga – Kohimarama (May 2013)

Thanks Kristin. Had a wonderful time and flights went without a hitch. Thanks once again for your help. Until next time.

Jo S – Hamilton (April 2013)

Hi Kristin, Well everything went really well and the trip is still fresh in our minds. I think my favourites were the Terracotta Warriors and talking to all our guides. Without exception they were excellent. The accommodation was fine. The best hotels were the Tibetan and the Penta but really we had no concerns. Thanks so much for the effort you made for us. Kind Regards Liz & Ross – Auckland (May 2013)

Hi Kristin,

Just wanted to send you a quick note to say thank you for the amazing work you put in to help me plan my European trip. As you know being a female and travelling by myself the word ‘nervous’ didn’t even begin to describe how I was feeling, however your continued reassurance and subtle guidance had me doing things that I never thought I’d be brave enough to do. I can’t possibly thank you enough for encouraging me to do the Top Deck tour through Italy – this hands down was the biggest highlight of my trip and the people I met on tour will be friends for life.

As you’ll remember we had a few hiccups to the start of my trip with Typhoons, changed flights paths, cancelled flights, missed flights and whatever else the world was throwing at us. I know you and the team went over and above what any other agency would do to ensure that the effects of this were minimal. The numerous phones calls to airlines chasing my bags and rebooking my flights definitely didn’t go unnoticed and these huge efforts are greatly appreciated.

Please pass on my thanks to Lianne also. You have a fantastic team working alongside you and there is no doubt I’ll be booking with you again.

Kind Regards,

Jenny – Auckland (July-August 2012)

Hi Kristin

I have meant to contact you and thank you so much for organising our trip…we are still buzzing from it.  Highlights were the Amazon Cruise ….3 nights perfect and the cruise was fantastic. The city Manaus was a nightmare …good advice not to stay any longer there than the nights on the cruise!

Rio and the Purto Bay Hotel was fantastic  as well.

All and all a great trip …cheers

Sam B – Auckland (October 2012)

This time last year we visited Kristin to discuss our second Europe trip and we wanted to include a Mediterranean cruise. While we appreciate different countries culture we didn’t want a whole lot of churches, would like a more leisurely pace and include some beaches.

We opted for ½ week Barcelona, 1 ½ weeks south of France, ½ week Cinque Terre and 2 weeks cruising visiting Greece and islands, along with Turkey. Her choice of 4 star type hotels at a variety of locations i.e city, towns, villages gave us varied experiences and mostly 3 night stays was perfect (she rightly insisted on mainly 3 nights against my thought of 2 nights).

When having a drink in Villefranche we met a couple from London. Their comment was  ‘you must have a great travel agent to arrange staying here’  instead of Nice. In fact during our time away we were often praising the detailed planning and venues that Kristin had arranged.

We completed our tour with a Celebrity cruise which was a most enjoyable and relaxing way to finish our holiday. We thought the balcony stateroom would be more like a caravan but were pleasantly surprised by the overall space and layout, along with the ambience and food.

Earlier this year we recommended friends of ours to Kristin and they were also very happy with their arrangements.

With very special thanks Kristin.

Allan and Sally M – St Heliers (September-October 2012)

Hey Kristin,

We had an absolutely wonderful time on the island (Toberua)…I am so glad we made the choice to go there.  The food was excellent, the staff were warm and caring…we felt quite emotional when we left.  The island looked exactly like the photos which was great and I haven’t felt so relaxed in years.  I would definitely recommend it..perhaps not if you’re looking for a mainstream island resort but definitely if you want to experience just sun and relaxation and great food …that’s a definite yes!  We also spent a day in Suva which was great too, am glad we did that.

Thanks for all your help and suggesting this island.

Cheers

Lori B – Auckland (October 2012)

Hi Kristin,

The holiday was fantastic, and the flights we booked with you were great !

Thanks

Venessa M – Auckland (September 2012)

Hello Kristin…..what a day we have had in Shanghai – brilliant. Our private tour was great and the trip to the Propoganda Poster place was a hit (the tour guide did not know it existed and she had to find out out where to go). Esther was so kind and did not waste any time, the driver was always there for pickup and we are so glad we did it all privately. Berthed adjacent to the Bund and woke to the view of the Pearl Tower and The Bund – from our balcony!  Hong Kong was spectacular – berthed beside the Star Ferry and had a million dollar view!!!!

Robin & Roger B – Auckland (October 2012)

Hi Kristin,

Norfolk Island was a great getaway -laidback, peaceful, friendly, although the weather was changeable.  Us girls certainly made the most of our time there. Looking back it was amazing what we covered and experienced in our exploring, tours and entertainment.  We sampled cafes, clubs and restaurants, shopped!!!!!  met many people and caught up with friends of mine.  Mum will no doubt fill you in.

Fletcher Christian Apartment set up was good – close to town. We had 2 adjoining units so opened the adjoining door and made it one ‘suite’ with TWO bathrooms!!!.  The car was a must have to get out round the island for our exploring.

Together we had lots of laughs, nibbles/drinks times and played Rummikub late into the night (with more drinks to help). A terrific week, great company! FUN!

Thanks so much Kristin for your part in the organisation of our trip, ensuring everything went smoothly.

I will let you know when I need to plan for another getaway.

Cheers,

Janet W – Mt Maunganui (September 2012)

Dear Kristin…we are having a great time and are so pleased with it all…8 fun dinner companions and a good quiz team. Hong Kong has been a highlight with the ship berthed at the Ocean Terminal giving us a ‘million dollar’ view. Our guide today was tops and we spent 6 hours with him, his full time job is an air traffic controller…off to Shanghai next. Hope all is well.

Kind regards

Roger & Robin B – Auckland (September 2012)

Hi Kristin,

Well here we are home again and back at work today. We had a wonderful time. Thank you for all your fine organisation. We have experienced some  amazing things and seen sights  we had only dreamed of and the wedding was lovely.

Hope all is well with you.

Kind Regards

Robyn M – Auckland (August 2012)

Hi Kristin

The holiday was refreshing, and the weather in the Gold Coast made the trip definitely worth while.  Overall I think our trip was well organised, the itinerary and especially the vouchers you prepared for us made everything from picking up the car to arriving at the theme parks that much easier so thank you for that.  The location of the Beach Resort in Broadbeach was very handy and we had no trouble finding it, no GPS required.  Everything from shopping to leisure was within walking distance which was great.

Once again thanks for your assistance with our trip.  Being my wife’s first time overseas you were able to make our experience as relaxing and hassle free as possible.

Regards

Ashleigh S – Wattle Downs, Auckland (July 2012)

Hi Kristin

Thank you for your email. We had a great time in Germany and the trip was pleasant.  As this is the first time I have booked with you, I am extremely happy with your service and thought everything was very well organized.

Thank you for that. I certainly will book with you again which may happen fairly soon.

Cheers

Claudia K – Glendowie, Auckland (July 2012)

Hello Kristin,

My sisters and I have returned from our travels to Korea and the UK and were very pleased with all the arrangements that you had made for us.  Having used two agents for our travel (you and the University’s supplier) we were very aware of the superior service you provided.  Thank you very much for your efforts.  Some feedback that may be useful regarding our stay at the Ramada Hotel & Suites Seoul Namdaemum:

* Excellent location for public transport and local markets

* Very comfortable, good sized beds, three single in the room (not rollaway) with plenty of room to move around

* Some of my friends from the conference in Korea booked into a hotel advertised as five-star that was not as roomy or comfortable as this hotel.

Thanks again Kristin.

Regards

Alexis S – Auckland (June 2012)

Hi Kristin

We are back and I thought I would drop you a line to say we had a fabulous time.

It started with front seats in premier economy – as comfortable as you can get on a plane – thank you very much!

We picked up the tour on the ferry – I spotted the bus and they took our luggage on board and we were on our way. The hotels were excellent and we had lovely rooms. The guide was superb and we had many enjoyable experiences that we would not have braved on our own. Some of the highlights- a gorgeous breakfast and visit to the Butchart gardens, a helicopter flight at Banff, a river float in Alaska, gondala rides, the wildlife we saw, the Rocky Mountaineer and the train at Skagway.

We ate our way around Canada and Alaska, meet interesting people and saw heaps.

Thank you from a nervous traveller – everything was great.

Regards

Raewyn B – Pakuranga, Auckland (June 2012)

Hi Kristin,

Turkey….I approached my Turkey experience with trepidation, as really had no interest in Istanbul at all, and was only going there based on your recommendation.  As it turns out, I had a blast. The Turkish people are wonderful, so patriotic and kind. My experience on arrival, at the hotel, and on the tours, was top notch.

Special mention must be made of my “Gallipoli” experience. I arrived with another bunch of people, only to be whisked off to the Crowded House hotel and tour company, fed up with a lovely meal, and then taken on a private tour of the Anzac area. How amazing. I got to tailor the tour to my liking, and got to achieve my dream of walking in the footsteps of the Kiwi ANZAC soldiers, and walking up to Chanuk Bair.

I then was even more amazed the next day when I had another private tour of the Helles region, and was totally blown away. This is truly an experience that Kiwis need to be made aware of. You get to see the biggest NZ cemetery and memorial, along with the Commonwealth memorial and the amazing Turkish memorial. I got to hear and see all the aspects of the naval battle, and the primarily British and French attacks on the bottom of the peninsula. NOT TO BE MISSED.

Troy – don’t bother – after seeing the amazing sites of the Gallipoli peninsula, really?

Huge thanks to the team at Crowded House in Eceabat – they were just fantastic! I can imagine that staying in their hotel would be one heck of an experience!

Egypt….Wow! This place has to be seen to be believed! Again, I was treated like a queen by my hosts, tour guides and drivers – big thanks to Mohammed who made my whole stay in Egypt extremely easy and fun. Sorry I gave you such a hard time! Raheem – you rock!  It is hard to say that Cairo and Alexandria were fun, as the traffic in Egypt is certainly not fun, but the experience was amazing. I went there in order to visit El Alamein as my grandfather had served there in the war. The cemetery is incredible and the museum full of very interesting artefacts. In Cairo my highlight was probably the Egyptian Museum, but enjoyed the Pyramids and the Citadel of Saladin also.  My hotels in Egypt were of an extremely high standard, and made the visit very pleasant.

Kind regards,

Sherry L – Hamilton (May 2012)

Hi Kristin,

Just touching base with you to let you know that yet again we had a very sucessful trip home.  The kids and I had a wonderful time and all the flights etc. went like clockwork.

Thanks for everything.

Until next time.

Jo S – Auckland (Sept 2011)

Seventeen years ago I approached Kristin and asked her to organise a 3-month trip to USA and Canada which incorporated the National Parks and the major cities. The trip had to be cheap but safe. She came up with 2 camping tours with groups in driver-guide SUVs and backpacker accommodation in the cities. Annually since then, she has organised trips for my mother and family, severally or collectively, to Europe, Asia, India, Australia, North and South America, using every possible mode of transport, including a cruise, individual guides in India and Vietnam or conducted tours in Europe, conference or budget accommodation and even just sunny time-out in the Pacific Islands or Northern Queensland. Never once has she missed a beat in ensuring that the trip always went without a single hitch and she has always met our prescribed budget. We would never use another travel agent.

Kate – Epsom (September 2011)

Kristin has been managing my business and family travel for the past few years and the experience has been superb. Complex long-haul business trips have been handled crisply and efficiently and always with a degree of personal insight from Kristin about the best current deals, places to stay and things to avoid. Kristin follows up without fail after every business trip to make sure everything went well and to gain insights that she can share with other clients.

It’s when things don’t go according to plan that Kristin really comes into her own; when an important business trip to the UK was interrupted by the Icelandic ash cloud, she rearranged my flights multiple times and she even took my travel file with her on a family weekend away so that she could make changes for me on the fly and the situation developed.

Kristin has also made our annual family holidays a great success; no matter where we’ve chosen to go, she always has ‘inside knowledge’ of the best properties, best flights to take and the pitfalls to avoid; we’ve been able to truly relax knowing we’re in great hands. I’ve recommended Kristin to my friends and associates many times and will continue to do so; she’s just great to deal with.

Cheers,

Phill D – Glendowie (July 2011)

When considering planning my ‘trip-of-a-lifetime’ a friend recommended I use the services of Kristin Edgeworth. Kristin was able to pull together all the various elements I wanted to include – Morocco in the relative safety of a small tour group; a few days in central hotels in Rome and in Copenhagen; genealogical searching in Ireland and England: a trip to China to visit an old friend. I’m happy to report that after 11 flights, nine weeks, nine different hotel beds, three car hires and one train journey, I arrived home safely.  My only problem during the whole trip? My luggage arrived home 12 hours after I did – even Kristin couldn’t help that!

In all my dealings with Kristin she was professional yet friendly and instilled confidence that all would go well. Thanks Kristin! I’ll be back – when I’ve saved up.

Joanna B – St Johns, Auckland (July 2011)Thank you so much Kristin. You are amazingly patient and persisten – so much appreciated