"In an already buoyant market, we are expecting this to be a very successful Travel Expo. With exclusive deals available at the event, Travel Expo is the perfect time to book your next holiday," Ms Matson said.
To help you on your way, there will be over 220 expert travel consultants available on the day to help you plan and book your next holiday as well as answer any questions you may have.
Here are eight of our Flight Centre travel experts sharing their travel insights.
What is your favourite holiday destination?
My favourite destination would have to be Egypt. I still remember the feeling of awe that you experience as you start your incline up the middle of the great pyramid. We also went hot air ballooning over the Valley of the Kings at sunrise and witnessed the Luxor Temple at night. It was an amazing experience.
What are your picks on the next must-see destinations?
Myanmar, Argentina and Cuba. Myanmar because it still offers a very authentic travel experience. Cuba because everyone wants to get there while it still holds its traditional and unique characteristics. Thirdly, Argentina because it will be more accessible with the Air New Zealand flights which will commence later this year, really opening up South America to Kiwi travellers.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Working with people to ensure that they have an amazing and memorable travel experience. Whether it's a beach break in Rarotonga or two months holidaying in Europe, I love sharing in the excitement of the planning process and ensuring that it's a holiday to remember and cherish.
What is your most treasured travel memory?
One that stands out is from when I was travelling in Laos. Long story short, we were travelling by tuk tuk to see some lime stone cliffs and ended up in a remote area where there was no accommodation close by. We ended up being invited to stay for a night with some locals in their village, they were so hospitable and it was a very humbling experience.
What are your must-pack travel items?
All I need is my iPhone, passport and credit card. Everything else, you can pick up along the way!
If you could go anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go?
I would take off to South America for six months. It's a lifelong dream to climb the Inca Trail and to go scuba diving in the Galapagos.
What is your favourite destination?
I couldn't pick a favourite but I have just returned home from a sailing trip in Croatia which was amazing. It was so nice to spend a week on the sea, just chilling on a boat and taking in the beautiful sights. The coastlines, food and people are simply incredible.
What is the wildest sight you have witnessed while travelling?
The wildest but also the most breathtaking, would be experiencing the beauty of Machu Picchu first-hand. Nothing can prepare you for how incredible it is.
What is your top travel tip?
We often like to travel independently which is great, however I have recently taken part in a few guided holidays and it's fair to say that I can't get enough. So simply put, don't underestimate the value of a group trip. On a recent holiday we were invited back to our tour manager's house in Cusco and treated to an authentic Peruvian barbeque, it was the most memorable moment of my trip!
What's your pick on the next must-see destination?
Vietnam. It's a beautiful destination with amazing food and the people are wonderful. While you're there, utilise the services of local guides. It makes all the difference and you will often be able to experience a unique perspective that you may not have when travelling on your own. Halong Bay is a must-do, as well as spending a few days in magical Hoi An.
What is your favourite destination?
This changes every time I travel. Bali is currently my favourite spot because the people are super friendly, it's very diverse and it's a cost-effective holiday option. Europe is also high on the list because it brings back very fond memories of backpacking for the first time which was pretty special.
What is your top travel tip?
Every travel experience is unique and amazing in its own way. Remember to have fun when you travel, even when things may be harder than you're used to because this is what makes the experience memorable. Immerse yourself in the culture, enjoy being a tourist and when you get the chance to spend time with locals, make the most of it.
If you could go anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go?
Everywhere! The USA and South America would have to be top of the list although going on a safari in Africa is definitely creeping up there.
How many countries have you visited?
27 and counting! I have been to Australia, East Timor, Brunei, Malaysia, Hong Kong, England, France, Switzerland, Monaco, Italy, Vatican City, Austria, Czech Republic, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Scotland, Morocco, Croatia, Norway, Sweden, Turkey, Egypt, Greece, Wales, Thailand and the USA. Next up is Vietnam and I can't wait, I've only heard fantastic things about this country.
What is your most treasured travel memory?
Getting engaged while holidaying in Tarves in Scotland. It was just after Christmas and we were knee deep in snow. It was the icing on the cake during an awesome trip away.
What is the wildest sight you have witnessed while travelling?
I once experienced a wicked snow storm at the top of Jungfrau in Switzerland. This is one of the main summits of the Bernese Alps and it was so severe that you couldn't see your hand in front of your face. It's safe to say I spent very little time outside!
What is your most treasured travel memory
?
My most treasured travel memory is sitting with a beautiful Silverback Gorilla with only a camera lens separating us. Seeing such an incredible creature up close was an amazing experience. Also witnessing the Pygmy elephants in West Africa - they really do exist!
What's your pick on the next must-see destination?
Myanmar is quickly increasing in popularity, largely because it has only opened up to tourists in recent years. There's also so much to do while you're there - my picks would be taking a hot-air balloon ride over the amazing sights of Bagan surrounded by over 2,000 temples and to relax on a cruise of the Ayeryarwady River.
How many countries have you visited?
Over 50 - I'm very fortunate to work in a job that allows me to travel! I have spent a year travelling through Africa, three months backpacking through Europe and I recently explored Southeast Asia. Although it never ends and there are always new places to experience and old favourites that I want to get back to.
If you could go anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go?
Africa. It's an amazing continent and somewhere that I have always wanted to go, particularly because of the wildlife. Experiencing a safari is high up on my bucket list.
Where was your first trip?
When I was five years old, my parents took me on a massive family holiday around the north and central parts of India, visiting loads of sights from historic temples and the Taj Mahal. I still remember how much fun I had.
What is your favourite destination overseas?
America is my favourite destination because there are so many places to visit and all types of experiences to be had. New York is one of the coolest cities in the world with so much to offer, it's an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the states.
What is your most treasured travel memory?
I would have to say visiting Gallipoli. It was a very humbling experience to visit a place that has so much meaning for so many Kiwis and to be able to pay tribute to those who had gone before us. Turkey offers so much history and is a must-do destination. Aside from all the attractions, the warmth and friendliness of the locals make it an even more inviting place to visit.
If you could go anywhere in the world tomorrow, where would you go?
The Maldives! I would spend all day relaxing on breathtaking beaches and stay in an over-water bungalow, I think it would be pure bliss and something I really want to do.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
Making holiday dreams come true. Travel is such an exciting experience and it's great to be able to share this with people throughout the planning and booking process, not to mention all of the wonderful stories when they return home again!
