(83 Reviews)
98% Recommended

Rey Alton

Bellaire, TX
Travel Lifestyle Specialist

The process of planning, coordinating, booking, and managing travel arrangements can be a daunting experience.  But, with a seasoned and respected travel advisor, your travel planning experience will be streamlined and hassle-free. With more than ...
Learn more about me.

Kaikoura Travel Agent Expert

Kaikoura is a picturesque coastal town on New Zealand’s South Island, famous for its spectacular marine wildlife and dramatic mountain backdrop. Known as one of the best places in the world for whale watching, it offers unforgettable encounters with sperm whales, dolphins, seals, and albatrosses. Beyond the ocean, Kaikoura boasts beautiful beaches, rugged cliffs, and excellent hiking trails, making it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.


 


Top 5 Places in Kaikoura:



  • Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway – A scenic coastal trail with stunning ocean views and seal colonies.

  • Whale Watch Kaikoura – The departure point for world-renowned whale watching tours.

  • Fyffe House – A historic whaler’s cottage and museum offering insight into early settlement life.

  • Kaikoura Museum – Showcasing local history, marine life, and Maori culture.

  • Ohau Stream Walk – A short trail to a natural seal colony where you can observe seals up close.


 


Top 10 Activities in Kaikoura:



  • Go whale watching – Spot majestic sperm whales and other marine giants on guided boat tours.

  • Swim with dolphins – Join tours that offer close encounters with playful dolphins.

  • Visit seal colonies – Observe New Zealand fur seals in their natural habitat.

  • Try kayaking – Paddle along the coast for wildlife spotting and serene views.

  • Take scenic flights – See whales, dolphins, and the Kaikoura mountain range from above.

  • Hike the Kaikoura Peninsula Walkway – Enjoy stunning coastal landscapes and wildlife viewing.

  • Explore local seafood – Sample fresh crayfish and other seafood specialties.

  • Go fishing – Try your hand at deep-sea or shore fishing.

  • Visit the Maori Rock Art – Explore nearby sites with ancient Maori carvings and paintings.

  • Relax at the beach – Enjoy sunbathing, swimming, or picnicking along Kaikoura’s shores.

My Reviews

73 of 117 people found this review helpful
Another fabulous trip!
Rey has booked several domestic and international trips for me over the years. Each time the experience was fantastic. Rey is not only a knowledgeable and experienced travel agent, he is patient with groups and always provides stellar customer service. The resorts are always fabulous and his recommendations on what to do when we arrive at our destinations make my vacations more enjoyable. I’ve counted on Rey to book fabulous vacations for over 10 years and he always delivers the best. I’ve always enjoyed the individual attention and care Rey provides his clients. He understands the apprehension that comes along with trying new places and is thorough and accommodating as a result. He’s also great at making suggestions on future vacations and I’ve never been disappointed when I follow his suggestions. Rey will remain my travel confidante for many years to come. He’s the best, hands down!
By  TC  from  San Antonio, Texas
Traveled to  Punta Cana ~ Dominican Republic ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
72 of 121 people found this review helpful
Travel Expert
We have worked with Rey for many years and have always enjoyed the experience. Most of our travel has been river cruises in Europe but last year we did a trip to South Africa. Rey is very thoughtful, thorough and responsive.
By  Randy  from  Houston
Traveled to  Europe
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
64 of 110 people found this review helpful
Destination Wedding Planner
Love working w/ Rey! Very knowledgable and detailed!! Definitely recommend to any and everyone traveling abroad.
By  Destination Wedding Planner - Elite Eventz   from  Houston, Texas
Traveled to  Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
63 of 112 people found this review helpful
July 4th Fun!!!
Rey and the Almeda Travel family have been so good to my family in assisting us in all of our travel needs/goals from beginning to return. Rey has shown nothing but the utmost professionalism, patience,guidance, and quality service that is so difficult to find these days. We have trusted Almeda Travel for the last 5-6 years for our vacations and will continue to do so, I also strongly recommend if you’re looking for an agent/team that is knowledgeable and consumer responsive go with Almeda Travel!
By  Lady on the Go  from  Beaumont, Texas
Traveled to  Washington D.C. ~ District of Columbia ~ USA
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
56 of 101 people found this review helpful
Anniversary Trip
I have the opportunity to book travel with Rey at Alameda Travel several times over the past 5-8years. He is very informative and knowledgeable about different places to travel and the hospitality service companies in those areas. I have been very pleased with every interactions and trip we have been on.
By  Chris Cooper  from  Humble, Texas
Traveled to  Montego Bay ~ Jamaica ~ Caribbean
I would recommend this agent to my family and friends
Was this review helpful to you? YES | NO
Go to my main profile

Destination Expert:

  • Kaikoura
  • New Zealand

Travel Specialist:

  • Honeymoons
  • Couples & Romance
  • Luxury
  • Adventure
  • Culinary & Foodie

Certifications/Awards:

  • CTIE
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2013
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2011
  • Travel Weekly Magellan Award Winner 2009

Connect with Me:

Industry Affiliations:

©  Travel Leaders Group