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A magical Christmas in New York

New York

The Big Apple does Christmas better than anywhere else, and New Yorkers seize the opportunity to celebrate every moment of it. 

Start the silly season off by heading along to Rockefeller Centre to see the towering Christmas tree with the Swarovski Star and over 30,000 glittering lights. Marvel at the ice skaters zipping around Bryant Park, and be awestruck by the amazing decorations and store window displays along Fifth Avenue. Explore outdoor Christmas markets, making sure not to miss Macy’s Santaland, and check out FAO Schwarz, New York’s most famous toy store.

Christmas in New York is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Inspired for 2024? Now’s the time to be booking your magical Christmas in New York!

“Do as the locals do and enjoy a cocktail on a rooftop bar – 230 Fifth is as the name suggests located at 230 5th Ave. The views of the Empire State Building and out across Manhattan are incredible – and they have heaters and cosy rooftop igloos – very cool!”

Recommended by Katrina Cole , HOT Botany Junction

Katrina Cole

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Megan McKay

Megan McKay

House of Travel Hornby

I have a passion for all things travel and cannot wait to help ensure you have the best experience possible!

Megan

Kyla Strahl

Kyla Strahl

House of Travel Christchurch City

Kyla spent over 6 years crewing on luxury super yachts throughout the Mediterranean, Baltic, Adriatic, Caribbean, Pacific and North Seas; along with several Atlantic Ocean crossings. Moving to more adventure land travel Kyla has experienced India, South America and South Africa as a part of the whopping 57 countries she has explored!

"Whether it be cruising, OE's or travelling with a young family my first-hand knowledge will certainly be an asset when planning your winter break, European adventure, or once in a life time dream holiday!" 

Years in the industry:
No. of countries visited: 57 
Favourite place to visit: Italy
Next place on the list to visit: Plantation Island

"Life is short and the world is wide, the sooner you start exploring it, the better." - Simon Raven


Why I love travel: 

Travelling takes us out of our comfort zone and inspires us to experience new things that we otherwise wouldn't in our normal day to day lives. It enriches your life from meeting new people from all walks of life, trying new food from different corners of the world, and humbles you to appreciate the small things in life. 


My travel tips: 

  • Always have travel insurance
  • Wake up early - whether it be to see the sunrise, or to skip a queue, or get a coffee at the local café. 
  • Make a list of the things you want to experience and pre book as much as you can. 
  • Stay local with everything easily accessible on foot. 


My top 5 favourite destinations: 

  • Italy - rolling hills and crystal blue waters, stunning villages and cathedrals, amazing food and wine. 
  • South Africa - rich cultural experiences, amazing wildlife on safari, breath-taking landscapes. 
  • Croatia - stunning beaches and unbelievable landscapes from the islands in the Adriatic to the Krka National Park. 
  • Mexico - amazing food, fascinating Mayan culture, stunning beaches, and fabulous architecture from ancient temples to the colonial cathedrals. 
  • Canada - my birth land! The people, the rich forests, lakes, mountains and wildlife. 


What's in my suitcase: 

  • First Aid kit as you can never be too prepared. 
  • Travel Diary - make an effort to write down the highlights of your day, you will look back in appreciation. 
  • Sarong or thin, long scarf - will come in handy as a towel or to cover your shoulders when need be. 
  • Small change of local currency - whether it be to buy a bottle of water or a quick snack or to leave a tip. 

Kyla

Robyn Oretsky

Robyn Oretsky

House of Travel Wellington City

For me, travel has been more than just a series of destinations,  it has been a transformative journey that has sculpted my character and contributed to my personal evolution. 

My travel experiences are not merely about ticking off destinations from a bucket list, but about immersing myself in the heart and soul of each place I’ve visited visit.  

My early travels began with frequent road trips around my home country of Canada and the USA, and I am fortunate enough to have now been to six of the seven continents. 

Exploring the world through various modes of transportation has been a thrilling adventure for me, from cruise ships, to trains, to rickshaws, and I have an appreciation for the experiences that local transport offers.  I am comfortable with sleeping in a hammock in the rainforest, an overwater bungalow in the South Pacific, and everything in between.  

My experiences have taught me to adapt to different situations and understand diverse perspectives, and my background in customer service and sales has equipped me with valuable skills that I believe make me well-suited for various client needs. I believe this makes me well-suited to meet your needs as a client.

Whether it's finding solutions to problems or anticipating your preferences, I strive to provide an exceptional service tailored to you. My aim is to not just meet but exceed your expectations by drawing on my varied background.

My enthusiasm for travel is infectious, and it is my goal to inspire others to embark on their own adventures and discover the beauty of our planet.


Robyn
Leanne Newton

Leanne Newton

House of Travel Upper Riccarton

Experiencing travel through the eyes of my daughter, has given me a whole new perspective and thirst for travel. 

It enables me to slow my pace, look around and just enjoy being in the moment as she interacts with local people. 

It brings back that feeling I had when I first travelled overseas, and I feel so grateful to be able to experience something so meaningful and life changing with my daughter.


Leanne

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A magical Christmas in New York