Our Latest Australia Deals This Week
Gold Coast, Sydney, Melbourne & more
Kangaroos, Koalas, and now Kiwis. If you're ready to hop the ditch we've got some amazing deals and holiday options for you. Explore our deals to the states: ACT, Northern Territory, Queensland, South Australia, New South Wales, Tasmania, Victoria or Western Australia.
Queensland deals 30
See more
Reef Sleep
The Breakers, Absolute Beachfront Apartments
Bel Air on Broadbeach
The Breakers, Absolute Beachfront Apartments
Bel Air on Broadbeach
Synergy Broadbeach
Club Tropical Resort
Pullman Palm Cove Sea Temple Resort & Spa
Hotel Indigo Brisbane City Centre
CLLIX Brisbane Skytower Apartments
CLLIX Brisbane Skytower Apartments
Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort
BreakFree Alexandra Beach
FV Brisbane by Peppers
Novotel Sunshine Coast
Oaks Sunshine Coast Oasis Resort
Mantra Mooloolaba
voco Brisbane City Centre
FV Brisbane by Peppers
Swiss-Belhotel Brisbane
Mantra Mooloolaba
Hyatt Regency Brisbane
Mantra on View Surfers Paradise
Mantra Portsea Port Douglas
Green Island Resort
Daintree Eco Lodge
Wilson Island
Royal Caribbean
Mandolin Beachfront Resort & Bluey's World
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
Australia events 28
See all2027 MELBOURNE INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW
FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2027 - WAITE GRANDSTAND
FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2027 - SENNA PREMIUM GRANDSTAND
AIDA ON SYDNEY HARBOUR
FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2027 - SCHUMACHER GRANDSTAND
FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2027 - RICCIARDO PREMIUM GRANDSTAND
FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2027 - PROST GRANDSTAND
FORMULA 1 MOËT & CHANDON AUSTRALIAN GRAND PRIX 2027 - FANGIO STANDARD GRANDSTAND
2027 Ampol State of Origin Auckland
My Fair Lady - Melbourne
My Fair Lady - Sydney
A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL - SYDNEY
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL - MELBOURNE
Netball World Cup Sydney 2027 - 5 Night Finals Hospitality Package - Four Points by Novotel Darling Square
Netball World Cup Sydney 2027 - 5 Night Finals Hospitality Package - Four Points by Sheraton Sydney Central Park
Netball World Cup Sydney 2027
Cirque Du Soleil – KOOZA - Sydney
Australian Open 2027 - 3 NIGHT SERVE & VOLLEY FINALS PACKAGE
Australian Open 2027 - 3 NIGHT SERVE & VOLLEY SEMI-FINALS PACKAGE
Australian Open 2027 - 3 NIGHT SERVE & VOLLEY QUARTER-FINALS PACKAGE
2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival - 3 night package - HOSPITALITY
Australian Open 2027 - 4 Night TIE BREAK PACKAGES
Australian Open 2027 - 3 Night SERVE & VOLLEY PACKAGES (ROUNDS 1-4)
Australian Open 2027 - 5 Night ULTIMATE SEMI-FINAL & FINALS PACKAGE
Australian Open 2027 - 5 Night GAME SET MATCH PACKAGE
2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival - 5 night package
2026 Melbourne Cup Carnival - 3 night package
More Australia deals 4
See more
Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Adelaide Foodie Getaway - Majestic Roof Garden Hotel
Holiday Inn Express Adelaide
Hotel Indigo Adelaide Markets
Australia touring 10
See moreAustralia cruising 30
See all
Easter Mini-Break
Start your Easter holiday with two nights in cosmopolitan Sydney before joining Royal Princess® to sail across the Tasman Sea. Savour ample time onboard to unwind and enjoy the Princess signature features such as Movies Under the Stars & the Lotus Spa, experience new Broadway-style shows, and get the best sleep at sea with the scientifically designed Princess Luxury Bed! . Explore the metropolitan hub of Tauranga, surrounded by stunning coastline, before arriving in Auckland.
Interior Stateroom
Departs 26 Mar 2027
Norfolk Island Seacation
Cross the Tasman aboard Grand Princess, with a rare visit to Norfolk Island before your voyage concludes in Auckland. Sit back, relax and enjoy life at sea on this effortless trans-Tasman escape.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Sure to be popular, talk to your local House of Travel consultant today.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 17 Jun 2028
Reefs, Rainforests & Island Cultures
Onboard, savour exceptional dining, refined entertainment, spacious suites and guest rooms, and the attentive service that has become synonymous with Crystal.
Double Guest Room with Ocean View
Departs 16 Mar 2027
South Pacific Odyssey
Talk to your local House of Travel today to book this South Pacific voyage and take advantage of our exclusive deal.
Inside Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 4 Jan 2028
Australia’s Kimberley Coast: Broome to Darwin
Cruising from Broome to Darwin, uncover ancient landscapes, tidal wonders and remote wilderness along the spectacular Kimberley coastline. This unforgettable journey blends raw natural beauty, adventure and cultural depth in one of Australia’s most awe-inspiring regions.
Flights are additional
Departs 5 Sep 2028
Noumea & Vanuatu Escape
Interior Stateroom
Departs 1 Apr 2027
Australian Icons
Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Departs 5 Apr 2027
Kimberley Expedition
Set sail to the otherworldly Kimberley, one of the world's last wild frontiers. Marvel at King George Falls—the highest waterfalls in Western Australia—discover the remarkable Wandjina and Dreamtime rock art galleries and encounter the incredible marine wildlife of Montgomery Reef.
On board, you’ll enjoy Seabourn’s intimate, yacht‑like atmosphere, all‑oceanfront suites, exceptional dining and warm, personalised service. With every detail taken care of, you’re free to relax and explore at your own pace in complete comfort and style.
Veranda Suite
Departs 29 Jun 2027
Beyond the Reef to Bali
Experience the wonders of Queensland’s sun-kissed beaches and ancient rainforests, delve into Aboriginal culture and art in Darwin, and discover Komodo—a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the legendary Komodo dragon—before sailing into lush Bali on this tropical cruise.
Veranda Stateroom
Departs 6 Mar 2027
Australia & New Zealand
FLIGHTS or SAVINGS OFFER
Economy airfares included up to AU$2800pp
OR
Save AU$2800pp off your cruise fare
PLUS House of Travel Exclusive Bonus | Receive AU$200 per person Onboard Credit when you book by 30 Nov 26.
Valid on new bookings for selected 2027, 2028 and 2029 voyages. T&Cs apply.
Sail through Christmas on this elegant 14-night voyage aboard Viking Venus, from Auckland to Sydney. Discover the wild beauty of New Zealand’s east coast and enjoy time in the charming cities of Napier and Dunedin. Then, cross the Tasman Sea for a taste of Tasmania and a stop in cosmopolitan Melbourne before arriving in Sydney’s iconic harbour.
Veranda Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 25 Jan 2027
Queensland Bliss
Departs 18 Feb 2027
Getaways with Carnival Cruises
Fun-Filled Trans-Tasman Escapes!
Set off on a 2027 Carnival cruise between Auckland and Sydney and enjoy an easy Trans-Tasman escape. Cruise days are filled with lively entertainment, laid-back relaxation, and Carnival’s signature fun atmosphere, making this a bright, breezy way to travel between two great cities.
21 May 27 – SYDNEY TO AUCKLAND GETAWAY - 4 nights
Onboard Carnival Adventure
Sydney | 3 Fun Days at Sea | Auckland
Interior Rooms from NZD $755 pp twin share
Balcony Rooms from NZD $1025 pp twin share
Single Rooms from NZD $1385 pp sole occupancy
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing
29 Jul 27 – AUCKLAND TO SYDNEY GETAWAY - 4 nights
Onboard Carnival Adventure
Auckland | 3 Fun Days at Sea | Sydney
Interior Rooms from NZD $765 pp twin share
Balcony Rooms from NZD $1025 pp twin share
Single Rooms from NZD $1505 pp sole occupancy
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing
Interior Stateroom
Flights Additional
Departs 21 May 2027
Last Minute Cruises from Auckland
Your next holiday could begin right here in Auckland, with cruises heading off in every direction. Think sun-drenched islands of the South Pacific, colourful Asian ports, or even a once-in-a-lifetime world journey. Big or small, short or long, every sailing offers a different way to explore. All you need to do is pick your dates, step onboard, and let the adventure unfold.
Top cruise lines bring their own personality onboard. Families will love the lively atmosphere on the bigger ships, while travellers seeking more refinement may prefer smaller vessels with a relaxed, boutique feel. With so many options, your last-minute holiday can be as adventurous or as laidback as you want it to be.
Start planning now and see where your Auckland departure could take you. With options this varied, the journey is just as exciting as the destination.
Click here to view full itinerary and pricing details for Last Minute Sailings
Cruise Deals You Can't Miss
Departs 9 Nov 2026
The Best of Princess
Receive HOT Exclusive Bonus up to $85 Onboard Credit on select sailings.
Check out our top picks of select sailings below and contact us for the full range.
30 Oct 27 - Tropical South Pacific
14 night cruise round-trip from Sydney
From $2859pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view Cruise
10 Nov 27 - New Zealand Gems
14 night cruise Auckland to Sydney
From $2785pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view Cruise
29 Jan 28 - Western Australia & Bali
14 night cruise round-trip from Perth
From $2729pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view Cruise
23 Feb 28 - Capitals of Asia
15 night cruise from Singapore to Tokyo
From $3059pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view Cruise
02 Mar 28 - Australia Circumnavigation
28 night cruise round-trip from Sydney
From $6929pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view Cruise
15 May 28 - Singapore to Brisbane
16 night cruise
From $2829pp share twin Interior Stateroom
Click here to view Cruise
Discover our exclusive Fly, Stay & Cruise Packages, combining flights, accommodation and cruising in one easy booking:
14 night package
From $6269pp share twin Interior stateroom
Click here to view Fly Stay & Cruise Package
7 night package
From $2629pp share twin Interior stateroom
Click here to view Fly Stay & Cruise Package
20 Apr 27 - Nordic Passage
17 night package
From $9129pp share twin Interior stateroom
Click here to view Fly Stay & Cruise Package
22 Apr 27 - Radiant Mediterranean
19 night package
From $9789pp share twin Premium Oceanview stateroom
Click here to view Fly Stay & Cruise Package
16 May 27 - Alaska & Waikiki
12 night package
From $6169pp share twin Interior stateroom
Click here to view Fly Stay & Cruise Package
Explore more House of Travel Exclusive Princess Cruises offers
Exclusive Offers
Departs 18 Mar 2027
Kimberley to Darwin
Sail into a world of bold colours along the Kimberly coast, on an immersive 10-night voyage from Broome to Darwin’s tropical coastline. From scarlet-hued cliffs to the aquamarine waters of the Indian Ocean, this remote and wonderful coastline of islands, caves and sea stacks is a feast for the eyes. Enjoy expeditions to see the ominous waiting crocs of the Hunter River, the thrilling currents of the Buccaneer Archipelago and the dugongs and turtles of Ashmore Reef.
Choose from a range of dates in 2026–27 including reverse itinerary options. Ask your consultant or visit in‑store for details on departure dates, sailings, and pricing.
Flights Additional
Departs 25 Jul 2027
South Pacific Christmas Escape
Trade the everyday for a tropical South Pacific escape from Brisbane, with sun-filled days at sea and beautiful island experiences waiting along the way. Spend time at Royal Beach Club Lelepa®, where turquoise waters and pristine beaches set the scene for a relaxing island getaway, before discovering Vila, Vanuatu, with its laid-back atmosphere and vibrant local culture. With plenty of time to unwind on board, soak up the sunshine and enjoy a change of scenery, this is an easy-going cruise that brings a little slice of paradise within reach.
Flights Additional
Departs 21 Dec 2027
Royal Beach Club Lelepa & South Pacific
Escape to the South Pacific on a sun-soaked getaway from Brisbane, with plenty of time to unwind at sea and a taste of tropical island life. Discover Vila, Vanuatu, where laid-back island vibes, local culture and beautiful scenery await, then spend a day at Royal Beach Club Lelepa, surrounded by turquoise waters and pristine beaches. With relaxing days on board, warm island hospitality and the chance to switch off and soak up the sunshine, this is the perfect short escape to paradise.
7 Night Cruise onboard Ovation of the Seas®
Departure date: 04 Feb 28
Ports of Call: Brisbane, Australia – Boarding | Cruising | Cruising | Vila, Vanuatu – Tendered | Royal Beach Club Lelepa – Tendered | Cruising | Cruising | Brisbane, Australia
From $1305 per person twin share Interior w/ Virtual Balcony Stateroom
From $1605 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1669 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Departure date: 31 Mar 28
Ports of Call: Brisbane, AustraliaPort Vila, VanuatuRoyal Beach Club Lelepa, Vanuatu, Brisbane, Australia
From $1555 per person twin share Interior w/ Virtual Balcony Stateroom
From $1759 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1935 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Flights Additional
Departs 4 Feb 2028
Sydney to Auckland April Escape
Porthole Oceanview Stateroom
Departs 31 Mar 2027
Sydney to Auckland March Escape
Inside Stateroom
Departs 9 Mar 2027
Auckland to Sydney Easter Escape
Inside Stateroom
Departs 20 Mar 2027
Southern Australia Coastal Explorer
Inside Stateroom
Departs 9 Jan 2027
Expedition Kimberley
Set your sights on the wild and wonderfully remote as you journey from Darwin through the breathtaking landscapes of Australia’s Kimberley and beyond. Marvel at the natural spectacle of Montgomery Reef, explore the rugged coastline around Broome and uncover the untamed beauty of the Kimberley before continuing to Kupang in West Timor. With dramatic scenery, remote wilderness and fascinating cultures along the way, this is a journey made for those who want to see a side of the world few ever experience.
Flights Additional
Departs 4 May 2028
Tasmania & Melbourne
Sail aboard Royal Princess® and explore Hobart, Port Arthur and Melbourne, combining Tasmania's rich heritage with some of Australia's most celebrated coastal destinations.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 28 Nov 2027
Tropical South Pacific
Escape to the Tropical South Pacific aboard Royal Princess®, exploring the idyllic islands of Fiji, Vanuatu and New Caledonia, renowned for their natural beauty and laid-back charm.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 30 Oct 2027
Singapore to Brisbane
Sail from Singapore to Brisbane aboard Grand Princess®, discovering the cultural highlights of Kuala Lumpur and Bali, the tropical landscapes of northern Australia, and the beauty of the Queensland coast.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 15 May 2028
Australia Circumnavigation
Discover the extraordinary diversity of Australia aboard Grand Princess®, from iconic cities and renowned wine regions to the rugged Kimberley coast, tropical north and stunning shores of Western Australia.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 2 Mar 2028
Australian Coast & Tasmania
Sail from Brisbane and explore the best of Australia's east coast and Tasmania, including Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and scenic cruising through Great Oyster Bay and Freycinet Peninsula.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 19 Jan 2028
Westerdam Down Under with Holland America Line
Set sail aboard Holland America Line's Westerdam and discover Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific, from epic transpacific voyages and Pacific Island escapes to Australia's coastal cities and New Zealand's spectacular shores.
PLUS HOT Exclusive Bonus up to US$75 Onboard Credit on select sailings.
Check out our top picks of select sailings below and contact us for the full range.
24 Oct 27 - 14 nights Sydney to Auckland
Sydney| Melbourne | Hobart | Cruising Fiordland National Park | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Picton | Wellington | Napier | Tauranga | Auckland
From $4395pp share twin Interior Stateroom - Save $350 per couple
From $6495pp share twin Verandah Stateroom - Save $1650 per couple
04 Jan 28 - 26 nights Sydney to Auckland
Sydney | Moreton Island | Townsville | Cairns | Alotau, Papua New Guinea | Kiriwina Island, Papua New Guinea | Rabaul, Papua New Guinea | Honiara, Soloman Island | Luganville, Vanuatu | Port Vila, Vanuatu | Mystery Island Vanuatu | Lautoka, Fiji | Suva, Fiji Islands | Nuku Alofa, Tonga | Waitangi | Auckland
From $7645pp share twin Interior Stateroom - Save $3570per couple
From $13,075pp share twin Verandah Stateroom - Save $5580 per couple
12 Mar 28 - 14 nights Auckland to Sydney
Auckland | Tauranga | Napier | Wellington | Picton | Lyttelton (Christchurch) | Port Chalmers (Dunedin) | Cruising Fiordland National Park | Hobart | Melbourne | Sydney
From $4779pp share twin Interior Stateroom - Save $860 per couple
From $6655pp share twin Verandah Stateroom - Save $2100 per couple
VIEW ALL SAILINGS Sep 2027 to Mar 2028
On the Westerdam enjoy World Stage, home to a variety of performances and lectures day and night, dance to your favourite songs at the Rolling Stone Lounge or sing along and test your music trivia with Billboard Onboard. For leisurely days at sea try your hand at the Pickleball courts that have amazing top-deck views or rejuvenate at Greenhouse Spa & Salon.
Explore more House of Travel Exclusive Holland America offers
Natural Wonders & Iconic Harbours
Departs 24 Oct 2027
Western Australia & Bali Festive Sailing
Celebrate the festive season aboard Sapphire Princess® on a 14-night voyage showcasing the rugged beauty of the Kimberley coast and the tropical charm of Indonesia. From Broome and the dramatic landscapes of Australia's northwest to Lombok and an overnight stay in Bali, this journey pairs extraordinary natural scenery with relaxing days at sea.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 19 Dec 2027
Western Australia & Bali
Sail aboard Sapphire Princess® on a 14-night voyage showcasing the rugged beauty of the Kimberley coast and the tropical charm of Indonesia. From Broome and the dramatic landscapes of Australia's northwest to Lombok and an overnight stay in Bali, this journey pairs extraordinary natural scenery with relaxing days at sea.
From movies under the stars and Broadway-style entertainment to indulgent spa treatments and the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed, Princess combines relaxation, entertainment and comfort at sea.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 29 Jan 2028
Plan your Australia holiday with our handy guides
Meet our Australia specialists
See all See all
Courtney Cameron
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
As your personal holiday builder I am here to take the stress out of your next holiday. Be it a family trip over the Tasman or romantic getaway to one of the sun soaked Pacific Islands, or maybe a bucket list destination trip.
I have had 10 years in the travel industry -made up mostly of being an International Flight Attendant. I have been lucky enough to travel to many places and experience many cultures. But there is always somewhere new to go!
I want to take the stress out of the planning so you can focus on the excitement of the trip. I am highly organized and like to ensure everything has been thought of and accounted for. Communicating clearly along the way with you so you feel confident and reassured.
Courtney
Zoe Robinson
House of Travel New Plymouth
Discovering the world and
all it has to offer has always held a place dear to my heart, and I am devoted
to helping you uncover the wonders of your next destination!
Through actively listening to your travel goals, I will work hard to create the
trip of your dreams; Whether it be a romantic getaway, a family holiday or a
world-wide adventure.
Zoe
Hayley Mundy
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
After more than 30 years selling travel, it still gives me such a buzz to create fabulous holidays. I love watching my clients' anticipation build, being part of the planning, sharing in the excitement of their journey - and of course hearing all about it when they return. It's almost as good as being on the trip with them!
Travel has changed a lot in recent years, and that's exactly why it pays to have an expert in your corner. As a senior, award-winning travel consultant at one of New Zealand's best-rated travel agencies, House of Travel The Crossing, I'm here to take the stress out, and the fun in!!
From complex airfares and cruise itineraries to boutique stays, family getaways and once-in-a-lifetime adventures, I'll help you navigate this new era of travel with confidence - keeping an eye on the details, the fine print, and the "what ifs", so you can focus on the excitement.
Let's create a holiday to remember - fabulous, seamless, and perfectly you.
Hayley

Melissa Topp
House of Travel Christchurch City
Travel really is my passion and I perhaps love organising it just as much as the actual travelling. Being able to open up options for people they had no idea they could accomplish is truly exciting. I love the scope of what we can accomplish as a travel agent; our systems, knowledge and relationships with the right people all add up to being able to organise a truly memorable trip. I’ve done it all from tours, safaris, ocean and river cruises, adventure travel, self-drives, rail journeys, family travel specialising in all things Disney and I love to share my knowledge to help you achieve the trip of your lifetime.
Outside of the office I like to spend my time skiing, horse riding, tramping, scuba diving, getting outside on our lifestyle block with my two little girls or enjoying a glass of pinot with a side order of chocolate mousse.
Years in the Industry: over 20
No. of countries visited: 50+
Favourite place to visit: Niue, no wait Cuba, hmm no
maybe it’s Egypt….. Or Italy….
Next place on the list to visit: Disneyworld
· “The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – Augustine of Hippo
Why I love travel?
Travel gives us our greatest stories, our most cherished memories and countless irreplaceable learnings that we can choose to pay forward to others. It teaches us about ourselves and each other, it broadens our horizons and, just like a reset button, it forces us to refocus on what really matters.
My travel tips:
- Pack your patient pants; Don’t sweat the stuff you can’t control. Your trip is
much too short to stress. Did you miss your bus? No worries, there will be
another one.. ATM out of
money? Great! Take an unplanned road trip over to the next town and
explore. I know it can be hard sometimes, but just
take a deep breath and remind yourself that it could be worse.
- Focus on value over
deals. It’s so easy to not look past the initial $ signs when organising
your trip but how much extra will there be in added costs once you are at
your destination, lost time or enjoyment is that initial saving really
going to cost you once you are there.
- Wake Up Early To Avoid Crowds. Rise before sunrise to have the best attractions all to yourself while avoiding large tourist crowds. It’s also a magical time for photos due to the softer light and often providing great opportunities to interact with locals getting ready for their day. Sketchy areas are less dangerous in the morning too. Honest hardworking people wake up early; scammers and criminals sleep in…
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Rio
De Janeiro – Such an incredibly vibrant city. Imagine, having dinner in a
local favela, no other tourists in sight and locals from ages 1-99 all
together, laughing, dancing to the live music, everyone talking to
everyone. A local group of young people came down the street performing
the traditional capoeira martial art/dance and everyone heads outside to
watch and cheer them on. It is always the people that make the place and
Brazil’s people are very bit as colourful as this amazing city.
- Europe
River cruise – A true holiday. Pull up each day in a different location,
right in the heart of things, wander off the boat and go for it. Return
when you feel like it to every luxury you could want, top class food and
drink and every room has a front row view. No crowds, most ships have
under 200 passengers and a great option for both first time travellers and
more experienced as you tend to visit many of the smaller and often less
visited towns.
- Rocky
Mountaineer train journey – Starting in Banff, which really feels like the
Queenstown of Canada and ending in Vancouver, a stunning city just a few
minutes’ drive and from the beautiful redwood forests this train journey
is must do travel experience. Seeing the spectacular scenery of the
Rockies from the comfort of your warmed up spacious leather seat, the
mountains are not just to either side but also above you through the glass
roof of the train.
- Borneo
– Here you can combine stunningly beautiful beach resorts with a visit to
the jungle; see the Proboscis monkeys, baby turtles being released into
the ocean and one of the only places in the world to see Orangutans in
their native habitat. One of the least explored areas on the planet with
many adventures to be had but you don’t need to skimp on luxury.
- East Africa Safari – It is a strangely exciting experience to be told not to wander too far from your tent at night because wild animals are really all around you. From elephants wandering through our camp one evening, to hearing bison grazing in the grass around us while sleeping, Africa really is as wild as you hope it will be. So many travel experiences these days are replicas – shows put together for your enjoyment. Africa definitely is not; it could not get much more real. Seeing orphaned baby elephants playing football with each other, wandering over to you reaching out their trunk so smell you as you stand behind only a rope fence watching their antics is just one of the incredible experiences on offer in this amazing location.
What’s in my suitcase?
- A
dog bed. I kid you not. These days I’m travelling with two little ones in
tow and as strange as this sounds it’s a life saver on long haul
flights-pair it with one of those big inflatable pillows that go where
your legs usually do and you have a comfortable bed for the little ones to
curl up in.
- A
dirty laundry bag. One easy spot to place all the worn things and easy to
take to the laundry with you while travelling or dump in the machine when
home.
- Earplugs. I need a good nights sleep be ready to do everything I have planned for the next day on my holiday and you just never know what noises you might want to shut out while travelling.
Melissa
Best. Holidays. Ever!
Start here
Let us help you find the perfect holiday or deal. Here’s how to get in touch...
Find your local House of Travel store:
- Auckland Travel Agents
- Christchurch Travel Agents
- North Canterbury Travel Agents
- Taranaki/Manawatu Travel Agents
- West Coast Travel Agents
- Bay of Plenty Travel Agents
- Hawkes Bay/Gisborne Travel Agents
- Northland Travel Agents
- Waikato Travel Agents
- Canterbury Travel Agents
- Nelson/Marlborough Travel Agents
- Otago/Southland Travel Agents
- Wellington/Wairarapa Travel Agents
Want the insider word on all things travel?
Sign up below and be the first to hear about out hottest holiday deals, flights steals, and essential travel hints and tips from out team of travel specialists.
By signing up, you have read or have an opportunity to read the Privacy Policy, and you agree to the provisions of the Privacy Policy.
Thanks for signing up, we’ll be in touch soon!
Hold on a sec, adventurer! We didn't quite catch your email. Sign up again to unlock your travel dreams!