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
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FREE NIGHTS
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
The Star Residences Gold Coast
Reef View Hotel
Reef View Hotel
Verandahs Apartments Port Douglas
Verandahs Apartments Port Douglas
Paradise on the Beach Resort
The Alva Hotel Brisbane, Vignette Collection - an IHG Hotel
Crowne Plaza Surfers Paradise
FREE NIGHTS
The Star Residences Gold Coast
Osprey Holiday Apartments, Mooloolaba
Mantra Mooloolaba
FV Brisbane by Peppers
Mantra Sun City, Surfers Paradise
BreakFree Diamond Beach
Rhapsody Resort
FREE NIGHT
Q1 Resort & Spa
Turtle Beach Resort
Mantra Mooloolaba
Catalina Resort
FREE NIGHT
The Rise Noosa
FV Brisbane by Peppers
Rhapsody Resort
The Wave Resort
FREE NIGHT
Q1 Resort & Spa
Lady Elliot Island Eco Resort
Paradise Resort Gold Coast
Add on this exclusive offer to your Queensland escape
Mandolin Beachfront Resort & Bluey's World
InterContinental Sanctuary Cove Resort
LOW DEPOSIT
Royal Caribbean
Australia events 20
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NRL & NRLW Telstra Premiership Grand Final 2026 - SYDNEY
My Fair Lady - Melbourne
My Fair Lady - Sydney
A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL - SYDNEY
NEW YEAR’S EVE AT SYDNEY OPERA HOUSE
LIMITED SEATS
Disney's THE LION KING - Sydney
A BEAUTIFUL NOISE: THE NEIL DIAMOND MUSICAL - MELBOURNE
Bathurst Race 'n Rail 2026
Cirque Du Soleil – KOOZA - Sydney
Cirque Du Soleil – KOOZA - Melbourne
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
Sydney & New South Wales deals 3
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FREE NIGHT
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
The Grace Hotel Sydney
Regent Seven Seas Cruises
Melbourne & Victoria deals 2
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BREAKFAST
Holiday Inn Express Little Collins
voco Hotel Melbourne
More Australia deals 4
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Adelaide City Stay
Holiday Inn Perth City
Intercontinental Perth City Centre
BREAKFAST
Holiday Inn Express Adelaide
Australia touring 10
See moreAustralia cruising 30
See allONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
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
New Zealand Gems
Enjoy a 14-night cruise aboard Sapphire Princess, visiting vibrant cities and the spectacular Fiordland National Park before crossing the Tasman Sea to Hobart and Melbourne, and sailing into Sydney. Unwind onboard with Movies Under the Stars®, indulgent spa experiences, and world-class entertainment, all paired with the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 10 Nov 2027
Grand Pacific Explorer
Experience an extraordinary 92-night Pacific journey sailing between Vancouver and Auckland.
Discover the spectacular scenery of the Pacific Northwest and Alaska before journeying across the Pacific to the Far East, Southeast Asia, Australia, and New Zealand. From the wildlife of Komodo Island to the vibrant cultures of Bangkok, Bali and Hong Kong, this epic voyage offers immersive experiences across oceans and continents. With overnight stays in 14 ports, enjoy more time to connect with local traditions, cuisine and unforgettable destinations along the way.
Deluxe Veranda stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 21 Sep 2027
Tasmanian Highlights
Embark on a fantastic voyage through the rugged beauty and rich history of southern Australia. From Sydney’s iconic harbor to the historic streets of Hobart, the convict-era legacy of Port Arthur, and the coastal tranquility of Eden.
Enjoy 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.
Interior Stateroom
Departs 18 Mar 2027
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
EXCLUSIVE ONBOARD CREDIT
Coastal Charms to Sydney – Oct 2027
Sail from Auckland on a unique 7-night cruise onboard Royal Princess, visiting the colourful ports of Napier and Wellington before crossing the Tasman Sea to Sydney. Unwind onboard with Movies Under the Stars®, indulgent spa experiences, and world-class entertainment, all paired with the comfort of the Princess Luxury Bed.
Interior Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 16 Oct 2027
Sydney & Hobart Taster
Enjoy a perfect short summer escape with this 7-night Fly, Stay & Cruise package. There’s time for shopping and dining in Sydney before setting sail on a Norwegian Cruise Line long-weekend round-trip cruise calling at Hobart.
Experience adult-friendly, premium cruising onboard Norwegian Spirit. Enjoy world-class dining, stylish staterooms, top-tier entertainment, and first-class facilities including a spa, pools, lounges, and specialty restaurants.
Inside Stateroom
Departs 18 Jan 2027
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
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
Tasman Indulgence - Perth to Auckland
Indulge in riverside dining and explore the stunning Kings Park and Botanic Garden in sun-drenched Perth before joining Oceania Riviera, a contemporary and sophisticated small ship, for a remarkable journey.
Discover the rugged beauty of Western Australia, from the turquoise waters of Busselton to the remote shores of Esperance. Visit the vibrant cities of Adelaide and Melbourne before crossing the Tasman Sea.
In New Zealand, explore Marlborough’s renowned wine region in Picton, and experience the culture and cuisine of Wellington. Admire the art deco charm of Napier, then continue to Gisborne and Tauranga for geothermal wonders and coastal scenery, before concluding your journey in Auckland.
Inside Stateroom
Departs 5 Jan 2027
LIMITED CABINS
Komodo & the Australian Coast
Discover the wonders of Indonesia and Australia’s iconic coastline, from Komodo dragons to the Great Barrier Reef. Explore vibrant cultures, stunning islands and coastal cities including Darwin and Brisbane on this enriching Viking voyage.
Deluxe Veranda Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 25 Nov 2026
New Zealand & Australia Valentine's Getaway
Set sail from Auckland along our stunning coastline, visiting charming towns and vibrant cities. Soak in the beauty of ethereal Fiordland National Park before crossing the Tasman Sea to enjoy the amenities and entertainment onboard. Discover one of the world's finest contemporary art museums in Hobart, shop in Melbourne, and sail into the iconic Sydney harbour.
On the Noordam 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®.
Inside Stateroom
Departs 14 Feb 2027
Australia & New Zealand
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 23 Dec 2027
Tokyo to Sydney Ocean Liner Elegance
Set sail onboard Queen Elizabeth, enjoying relaxed, idyllic days at sea that allow time to make the most of the ship’s amenities, before discovering the cultural depth of Rabaul, the tropical landscapes of Cairns, and the idyllic shores of the Whitsundays, followed by an overnight stay in Sydney for extra time to enjoy the city’s iconic harbour, dining, and nightlife.
Cunard staterooms are among the most spacious at sea with Penhaligon toiletries, twice-daily turndown service and sparkling wine on arrival. Princess and Queens Suites offer additional benefits including a personal butler. A host of activities are available onboard including open-air pools and gym facilities and the daily programme will have live music, theatre performances, guest speaker events and the famous signature Afternoon Tea and Gala Evenings.
Inside Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 9 Mar 2028
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 $665 pp twin share
Balcony Rooms from NZD 929 pp twin share
Single Rooms from NZD $1219 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 $629 pp twin share
Balcony Rooms from NZD $879 pp twin share
Single Rooms from NZD $1239 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
PRICE DROP
Best of New Zealand
Sailing from the vibrant city of Auckland, this journey showcases the natural beauty and cultural richness of New Zealand's most iconic coastal destinations. From the sunny shores of Tauranga to the art deco charm of Napier, each stop brings a unique experience. In Picton and Wellington, dramatic landscapes meet world-class wines and vibrant city life, while Christchurch and Dunedin offer a blend of historic elegance and modern flair. Scenic cruising through Doubtful, Dusky, and Milford Sounds provides breathtaking views of fjords, waterfalls, and wildlife. The experience culminates in Sydney, Australia’s iconic harbour city, offering an unforgettable finale to an extraordinary voyage.
Inside Stateroom
Departs 18 Oct 2026
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
Noordam Downunder with Holland America Line
Set Sail with Holland America Line onboard the Noordam and discover the beauty of our landscapes in the South Pacific, from epic transpacific voyages to cruises through the Pacific Islands, including Papua New Guinea, across the Tasman to the big cities and charming towns of Australia, and along the shores of New Zealand from the Bay of Islands to Milford Sound.
View Noordam Nov 26 to Mar 27 Sailings
Enjoy an elegant mid-sized ship, a comfortable stateroom with refined amenities and Holland America's signature Mariner's Dream™ bed, 24-hour in-room dining, world-class entertainment and cuisine, including a new first-of-its-kind Global Fresh Fish Program.
On the Noordam 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®.
Natural Wonders & Iconic Harbours
Departs 15 Nov 2026
Fiji to Brisbane
Escape to the sun-drenched South Pacific on a journey filled with tropical beauty and island charm. Depart from Lautoka and discover the crystal-clear waters of Champagne Bay, before exploring the vibrant culture of Port Vila.
Continue to the idyllic shores of Lifou and the French-inspired flair of Nouméa, before arriving in the lively riverside city of Brisbane.
With turquoise lagoons, swaying palms, and warm island hospitality, this voyage is the perfect tropical escape.
Flights Additional
Departs 11 Feb 2027
Sydney to Auckland Summer Escape
Settle into an overnight hotel stay in vibrant Sydney before joining Norwegian Spirit and sailing to Eden, Tasmania, and Melbourne. Unwind and make the most of the fantastic onboard amenities as you cross the Tasman Sea, then take in the stunning scenery of Fiordland National Park. Journey up New Zealand’s East Coast, exploring Dunedin and the Bay of Islands, before sailing into Auckland.
Experience adult-friendly, premium cruising onboard Norwegian Spirit. Enjoy world-class dining, stylish staterooms, top-tier entertainment, and first-class facilities including a spa, pools, lounges, and specialty restaurants.
Inside Stateroom
Departs 15 Feb 2027
New Kimberley 2026
Discover the untamed beauty of The Kimberley with Silversea Cruises in 2026. Sail through dramatic gorges, cascading waterfalls, and ancient landscapes, with immersive Zodiac excursions and wildlife encounters along the way. Blending expedition adventure with all-inclusive luxury, it’s a truly unforgettable journey into one of Australia’s last great wilderness regions.
10 Nights Darwin to Broome
Departure date: 24 June 26
Ports of Call Darwin, Australia | Ashmore Reef, Australia | Wyndham, Australia | Vansittart Bay, Australia | HUNTER RIVER, Australia | Broome, Australia
From $21,845 pp share twin Vista Suite
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
10 Nights Darwin to Broome
Departure date: 14 Jul 26
Ports of Call Darwin, Australia | Ashmore Reef, Australia | Wyndham, Australia | Vansittart Bay, Australia | HUNTER RIVER, Australia | Broome, Australia
From $22,585 pp share twin Veranda Suite
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
10 Nights Broome to Darwin
Departure date: 04 Jul 26
Ports of Call Broome, Australia | HUNTER RIVER, Australia | Ashmore Reef, Australia | Vansittart Bay, Australia | Wyndham, Australia | Darwin, Australia
From $23,325 pp share twin Veranda Suite
Click here for full itinerary and pricing details
All Inclusive Luxury Expedition
Departs
Australasian Yuletide
Savour two nights in vibrant Sydney, exploring its sparkling harbours and cosmopolitan charm, before joining Oceania Riviera for a festive holiday at sea.
Cruise along the tropical coastline from the Whitsundays to Cairns and Cooktown, then celebrate Christmas in Darwin. Continue to Indonesia’s hidden gems, including Komodo, Bali, Lombok, Waingapu, and Kupang. Enjoy relaxing sea days, world-class dining, and luxurious onboard experiences before concluding your New Year voyage in Perth (Fremantle).
Inside Stateroom
Departs 13 Dec 2026
Kimberley Expedition 2027
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.
Experience luxury like never before onboard your intimate Seabourn ship, where a private yacht-like atmosphere meets unparalleled elegance. Each ocean-front suite is thoughtfully appointed, complemented by exquisite dining, captivating entertainment, and a generous selection of premium spirits and fine wines, always available throughout your journey.
Veranda Suite
Flights are additional
Departs 1 Jul 2027
Fiji, Royal Beach Club Lelepa & more
A South Pacific escape from Sydney brings together vibrant island cultures and stunning tropical scenery. Visit the French-inspired charm of Noumea, the colourful capital of Suva, and the laid-back shores of Lautoka, before enjoying the exclusive beauty of Lelepa Island and the crystal-clear lagoons of Lifou.
Balanced with relaxing days at sea, this journey offers a perfect mix of island life, culture and coastal beauty before returning to Sydney refreshed and inspired.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
Deluxe Porthole w/ Veranda Stateroom
Flights Additional
Departs 29 Feb 2028
South Pacific & Royal Beach Club Lelepa
A vibrant South Pacific escape from Sydney blends relaxing sea days with a string of tropical island highlights. Visit the French-inspired capital of Noumea, the pristine shores of Mystery Island, the exclusive beauty of Lelepa Island, lively Port Vila, and the crystal-clear lagoons of Lifou.
With sun-soaked days, island culture and laid-back cruising throughout, this journey delivers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation before returning to Sydney.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
Deluxe Inside Stateroom
Flights Additional
Departs 4 Jan 2028
ONLY AT HOUSE OF TRAVEL
South Pacific Christmas
A tropical escape from Brisbane featuring relaxing days at sea and island highlights in Lelepa Island and Port Vila. Expect crystal-clear waters, laid-back vibes and the perfect balance of fun and relaxation before returning to Brisbane.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
Flights Additional
Departs 21 Dec 2027
HOT EXCLUSIVE
Brisbane, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, & Vanuatu
A relaxed South Pacific getaway from Brisbane, featuring tropical stops in Luganville and Lelepa Island, with plenty of easy sea days before returning refreshed to Brisbane.
7 Night Onboard Voyager of the Seas:
Departure date: 29 Oct 27
From $1775 per person twin share Interior Stateroom
From $1925 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $2695 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Departure date: 04 Feb 28
From $1239 per person twin share Interior Stateroom
From $1499 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $1889 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Flights Additional
Departs 29 Oct 2027
Sydney, Royal Beach Club Lelepa, New Caledonia & Port Vila
Unwind on a South Pacific escape from Sydney, with relaxing sea days and stunning island stops along the way. Discover the French-inspired charm of Noumea, the untouched beauty of Mystery Island, and the exclusive shores of Lelepa Island. A perfect blend of tropical scenery, island culture and laid-back cruising before returning to Sydney.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
Flights Additional
Departs 20 Dec 2027
Brisbane, Port Vila, Royal Beach Club Lelepa
A relaxed tropical getaway from Brisbane, with easy days at sea and island time in Port Vila and Lelepa Island. Enjoy sun-soaked days, warm island hospitality and a laid-back pace before returning to Brisbane refreshed and recharged.
Royal Beach Club℠ Lelepa, opening in October 2027, will be Royal Caribbean’s® first exclusive cruise destination in the South Pacific. Located on the island of Lelepa in Vanuatu, the destination offers complimentary entry with access to two pristine beaches, including a family-friendly shoreline and an adults-only retreat, plus areas designed for relaxation and adventure. Guests can enjoy unlimited island dining and explore a scenic Nature Trail, all included with their cruise fare.
Flights Additional
Departs 31 Mar 2028
Sydney, Royal Beach Club Lelepa & Vanuatu
Enjoy a tropical escape from Sydney with relaxing days at sea and island highlights in Lelepa Island, Port Vila, and Mystery Island. A perfect mix of laid-back cruising and South Pacific beauty before returning to Sydney.
9 Night Onboard Anthem of the Seas:
Departure date: 27 Oct 27
From $2365 per person twin share Interior w/ Virtual Balcony Stateroom
From $2839 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $3279 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Departure date: 19 Jan 28
From $2755 per person twin share Interior w/ Virtual Balcony Stateroom
From $3325 per person twin share Oceanview Stateroom
From $3725 per person twin share Oceanview Balcony Stateroom
Flights Additional
Departs 27 Oct 2027
Southern Shores to Singapore
Savour the iconic sights and coastal charm of Sydney, the perfect start to your adventure. Then join Azamara Quest for a captivating voyage through Australia and Bali. Explore Kangaroo Island’s thriving wildlife, soak in the relaxed charm of South Australia’s coastal towns, and discover Western Australia’s scenic harbours and beaches. Continue to Bali, where lush landscapes and rich traditions await at Celukan Bawang and Benoa, before sailing on to the vibrant city of Singapore.
Cruise on Azamara Quest, your boutique hotel at sea, where practically everything is included and the atmosphere is laid-back. You can relax onboard on sun-drenched decks, in the refreshing pool, and revitalizing spa. There's never a dull moment onboard with celebrations, cultural performances, and cocktails!
Oceanview Stateroom
Departs 21 Feb 2027
Plan your Australia holiday with our handy guides
Meet our Australia specialists
See all See all
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
Jazmin Pudney
House of Travel Tauranga: The Crossing
Travel creates happiness and I love to make people happy! I love all aspects of travel-adventure, food, culture, relaxation and most importantly making life long memories.
I pride myself on my organization skills and I have extensive knowledge of the travel world. I love creating clients special holidays and will always ensure you have everything you need to have the best holiday!
Jazmin
Carmel Layton
House of Travel Nelson
Hi, I’m Carmel Layton. Travel has been a huge part of my life from my first trip overseas as a 6 year old to travelling independently in my twenties and I have travelled to over 72 countries around the world, it has always been a key ingredient in my life.
I am an experienced and passionate travel professional with over 15 years in the industry. From a short South Pacific getaway to a trip around the globe, I look forward to helping you realise your travel dreams.
Darryl Sandri
House of Travel Timaru
Darryl has a vast travel knowledge of the world with Europe & Africa continents being personal favourites.
He's been selling both leisure and corporate bookings for 18 years and is well equipped to handle all requirements for personal and business travel.
Darryl
Best. Holidays. Ever!
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