The Concierge Magazine | Issue 02 2024 | Where Culture Meets Luxury

ONE OF A KIND ADVICE FOR THE LUXURY TRAVELLER

Culture Luxury WHERE MEETS

Historic sites Cultural immersion Artistic wonders Luxury touring & cruising

Your one of a kind luxury holiday awaits

One of a kind TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

What to expect when you book with Travel Associates PERSONAL CONCIERGE SERVICE

We travel the world to ensure your holiday experience is one-of-a-kind, every time. Your itinerary is handcrafted by your dedicated advisor, with every little detail taken care of.

AUSTRALIA & NEW ZEALAND'S LEADING TRAVEL EXPERTS

Our network of travel advisors has expert knowledge in everything from cruising and skiing to the world’s best hotels, overwater bungalows, family holidays and hidden travel gems.

Enjoy special touches and luxury extras that are only available to our clients. And no matter what happens during your travel journey, we’re here to ensure your experience is seamless.

I hope you all enjoyed our first edition of The Concierge released in May? I poured through each page and uncovered so many hidden gems to enjoy through each season of the year.

Our next edition brings a new travel theme to life, which is sure to inspire your next adventure. This edition, Where Culture Meets Luxury, reveals the world’s most outstanding and rich cultural experiences, which we always recommend to pair with some comfort and indulgence along the way. There are some fantastic small group touring partners featured in this edition who responsibly and safely guide you through these cultural experiences, and I’m incredibly excited about the launch of G Adventures’ new range, Geluxe, perfectly pairing adventure, culture, sustainability and indulgence while supporting every community they visit.

Please enjoy our latest edition, and remember, your Travel Associates Advisor is ready to create a personalised holiday experience that perfectly meets your needs – no matter what has inspired you!

Yours in travel,

RACHEL KINGSWELL General Manager, Travel Associates

EDITORIAL

Editor

HELEN HAYES

Head of Marketing

MADDISON DONE

Campaign Manager

GEORGIA FYFE

Contributors

SUE WALLACE

CARRIE HUTCHINSON

ALENEY DE WINTER

LOUISE GOLDSBURY

PRODUCT

Head of Product

ADAM TOWNSON

Product Curators

RUTH BULLOCK

CHRISTINA KERR

SUZANNE GOWERMCDONALD

ART

Head of Design

CLAUDIA LUI

Designer

JACKIE DUJARDIN

For advertising and editorial queries please email marketing@travelassociates.com

ON THE COVER Jaipur, Rajasthan

MAKE YOUR WHITSUNDAYS DREAM A REALITY

Stay longer and enjoy more in the heart of the Great Barrier Reef. InterContinental Hayman Island Resort welcomes travellers seeking an unparalleled blend of luxury and natural wonder.

Indulge in a minimum three-night stay in one of our exquisite suites or villas: from the serene Beachfront Pool Villa to the grandeur of the Hayman Residence, each offering breathtaking views and unparalleled comfort.

Enjoy a seamless journey with return launch transfers included. Your retreat begins with a complimentary bottle of champagne upon arrival, setting the tone for a truly unforgettable stay. Embrace the ultimate in luxury and relaxation amidst the natural beauty of the Whitsundays.

Speak to a Travel Associates advisor to know more.

With

Step

One of the best ways to explore a city is to visit its best museums, showcasing art and history on an often grand scale.

We

Enjoy

Dive deep into a destination on a smallgroup

40

GROUPS, BIG TRAVELS

When touring far-flung destinations, do it In-Style with Bunnik Tours. 44 WILD EXPLORATIONS

For the culturally curious, Collette's Explorations Small Group travel awaits.

48 INSPIRED AUSTRALIA

Embark on a curated Australian adventure with Inspiring Journeys. 52

ON DINING

Bite-size foodie tips from Travel Associates' luxury travel Advisors. 54

For luxury at sea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises shines from bow to stern.

58 SEAS THE DAY

Unlock the ancient and natural worlds by sea, from historic sites to pristine islands and culinary gems.

62 A FEAST IN HONG KONG

From Michelin stars to street food, Hong Kong is a foodies delight.

66

WITH HEART

Luxury with a conscience is the new standard at these high-end hotels.

“Travel is not reward for working, it’s education for the living.”

— ANTHONY BOURDAIN

70 LUXURY IN IRELAND

For myths, legends and authentic lifestyle, Ireland is calling.

76 KEEP CALM AND CARRY ON

Take a peek inside a luxury Travel Advisors’ carry-on bag

EVERY ISSUE

13 ASK AN ADVISOR

Our expert advisors answer your questions.

73 SIGNATURE ITINERARY: IRELAND

Read about our 10-day exclusive Tastes and Traditions of Ireland Signature Itinerary.

74 AIRLINE REVIEW: UNITED POLARIS

We review United Polaris, from Melbourne to New York via LAX.

78 OUR OFFICE LOCATIONS

Find your nearest Travel Associates office and connect with one of our experienced travel advisors.

The Concierge Travel Associates magazine uses biodegradable plastic and recyclable paper.

EDITOR ’S LETTER

You might think that you can’t be like Doctor Who or the characters in Outlander who can travel through time at will. But in a way you can. You can travel back to the Edo period exploring samurai castles such as Hirosaki, Matsumoto, Kumamoto or Inuyama Castle, and even venture inside authentic samurai houses.

You can wander the streets of Akrotiri, a village from the late Bronze Age – 20th-17th centuries BC – that was an urban centre. Like Pompeii, it was buried by an volcanic eruption and is still being excavated.

Follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh in Arles, France, or Monet in Aix-en-Provence. Marvel at ancient temples and magnificent cathedrals where kings and queens have been crowned and buried, and tour through different countries, discovering diverse cultures.

Unlock your own cultural time capsule with Travel Associates, with 300+ Travel Advisors able to curate your dream holiday through trusted partners. Our Advisors know that every client is after a different experience, with individual travel styles and tastes.

Call your Travel Associates Advisor to talk about your cultural journey, discovering art, history or Indigenous heritage, knowing that once booked, you can relax, as your travel advisor will take care of every detail.

Where in the world will you go? The time to plan and book is now.

Yours in travel,

Travel can take you back in time, unlocking thousands of years of history and culture at ancient sites and cities. We take a look at seven of our favourite destinations.

BY H E L E N H AYES

N T I M E T C H

D

Roman holiday

STANDING INSIDE THE COLOSSEUM and learning about its storied past, is the highlight of many a trip to Rome. Built by Emperor Vespasian in 80 A.D., it is easy to conjure up images of gladiators and wild beasts engaged in fearsome battles while a bloodthirsty crowd of 55,000 people looked on. Tour the Forum with its temples, arches, and other important buildings where emperors and senators once debated, visit the Pantheon, head underground to the catacombs, and sign up for a VIP tour of the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican Museums.

Old London town

Originally called Londinium, London is a treasure trove of time-honoured buildings. See remnants of the Roman Fort of Londinium and the London Wall near Barbican, and marvel at the centuries of history inside Westminster Abbey. Every Coronation since 1066 has taken place here, and a host of important people are buried, from Isaac Newton and Charles Darwin to Sir Winston Churchill and 30 kings and queens. At the Tower of London, see the Crown Jewels and the armoury museum, which sits in the White Tower, built by William the Conqueror in 1078. History is around every corner in London, from Buckingham Palace and Big Ben to Hampton Court Palace and Greenwich.

WE RECOMMEND

LUXURY GOLD’S CASTLE AND KINGDOMS

This 21-day Iconic Castles and Kingdoms of England, Scotland and Ireland will pair famous sights with once in a lifetime experiences. In London, join the Yeoman Warder at the Tower of London and see the Ceremony of the Keys, the oldest practised military tradition in the world. Visit 11th-century Alnwick Castle, known to many from the Harry Potter films.

Click to uncover more »

Colosseum, Rome

Armour from Tudor at the Tower of London

In the footsteps of the pharaohs

The Great Pyramids of Giza are remarkable on every level, and standing in front of them, and their protector, the Sphinx, fills you with awe. Completed by 2436 BC using methods that still confound architects, they are the only one of the Seven Wonders of the World left standing. Venture down to Luxor, where the Valley of the Kings reveals elaborately decorated tombs and the outstanding Temple of Karnak, and Abu Simbel, where four enormous seated statues of Ramses the Great, carved into the sandstone, welcome you. A Nile cruise is a great way to explore these ancient sites.

Incan wonders

The mysterious Incan citadel of Machu Picchu enchants with its location and its beauty, its ancient stone structures and terraces perched high in the Andes overlooking the Sacred Valley. Access it by hiking the Inca Trail, or take the luxurious Belmond Hiram Bingham train. Lesser known is the pre-Columbian city of Chan Chan, capital of the Chimu Empire before it fell to the Incas. Located near Trujillo, this huge adobe complex is striking, with citadels, temples and plazas with intricate details carved into the walls. In Cusco, explore the blend of Incan and Spanish history, while the pre-Columbian Nazca Lines etched into the desert are just as mysterious today as when they were found. There are 10,000 lines with 300 figures covering 1000 sq. kms.

WE RECOMMEND

SECRETS OF EGYPT & THE NILE

Spend 11 days immersing in Egyptian culture exploring Cairo, and cruising down the Nile on a seven-night voyage with AmaWaterways. An Egyptologist will be your guide to showcase the Pyramids of Giza, the Temple of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings and Queens, as well as a private tour of the tomb of Queen Nefertari.

Click to uncover more »

Luxor

The Pyramid of Intiwuatana, Machu Picchu

ETCHED IN TIME

It's all Greek to me

The Ancient Greeks contributed a great deal to life as we know it, giving us a foundation for democracy, literature, the arts, science and of course the Olympic Games. There are many magnificent sites around Greece, with the crowning glory being the Acropolis in Athens, topped by the Parthenon. Delphi, with the Temple of Apollo was once considered the centre of the world, Mycenae takes you back to Greece’s early history and the Palace of Knossos on Crete is from the Minoan civilisation. To go further back in time, visit the Ancient Archaeological site of Akrotiri on Santorini, settled sometime between 5000 – 3000 BC and abandoned in the 16th century BC after a volcanic eruption. Excavations continue to this day revealing prehistoric treasures.

WE RECOMMEND

ANCIENT WONDERS OF THE MEDITERRANEAN

This 11-day voyage takes you from Athens (Piraeus) to Antalya, on board Ponant's Le Dumont-d'Urville. History will come to life before your eyes with visits to the Acropolis, Ephesus, Delos, Nafplio – to see Epidaurus and Mycenae – Santorini including Akrotiri, the Palace of Knossos in Crete, Rhodes and the ancient Roman port of Antalya.

Click to uncover more »

A treasured experience

Exploring Türkiye’s historic sites is a wondrous journey through diverse civilisations. In Istanbul, Hagia Sophia with its grand domes and mosaics reflects a rich Byzantine and Ottoman heritage while the surprising subterranean Basilica Cistern features 336 ancient Greek and Roman columns, pedestals, and heads, along with impressive vaulted ceilings from the Byzantine era. The ancient city of Ephesus with its ampitheatre and the ethereal Library of Celcus, date back to Roman times while Troy takes you back to the days of Homer, Achilles and the Trojan Horse. Cappadocia's rock formations and underground cities are incredible, where Christians literally carved out homes and churches in the stone.

Hagia Sophia, Istanbul

Wall painting from Akrotiri, Santorini

Legends of Japan

Japan’s history is vast and layered, with many cities offering glimpses into life centuries ago. Nara was the first permanent capital, established in 710 at what was then called Heijo. It is rich in cultural treasures, including Horyu-ji Temple, the world's oldest wooden structure. Nara is also known for its deer, who are thought to be messengers of the gods so roam free. Kyoto was the capital from 794 to 1868, and has many cultural drawcards including Nijo Castle, the Imperial Palace, Fushimi Inari and Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion). There are many exceptional samurai castles, including Kumamoto, Matsumoto and Odawara.

Speak to your Travel Associates Advisor to book your next one of a kind cultural experience.

Matsumoto Castle

Ask an Advisor

QWHAT IS THE MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE YOU HAVE HAD AT A HISTORIC SITE?

A“ I have a fantastic memory of hiking to a hidden cave in Wadi Rum desert in Jordan. We were all sitting around the fire about 11 pm and asked by our guide if we wanted to go on an adventure. Three of us jumped up and followed our guide in the pitch black with no idea where we were going. He only had the stars to guide him and we stumbled upon an incredible cave. Within minutes he had a campfire going with a billy boiling tea as we sat around listening to incredible stories and tales of the Bedouin culture and history. Spine tingling.”

ANNABEL TIDMARSH

Noller & Turner

Travel Associates, QLD

Where in the World

AQQ

A

DO YOU HAVE ANY TIPS TO ACCESS POPULAR MUSEUMS AND CULTURAL SITES WITHOUT THE CROWDS?

“ Depending on budget, firstly I’d suggest asking your advisor to work with their preferred DMC - through this channel we can arrange most anything including private/night viewings at museums and galleries to meet and greet with cultural icons. More budget friendly would be to travel out of peak season and be ready to go first thing in the morning or an hour or so before closing time as these are less popular so the crowds will be smaller.”

BECKY KENT-PERCHALLA

Perchalla & Turner

Travel Associates, SA

This is one of those spots that takes your breath away. The majestic beauty of the Cathedral Gorge is truly GORGE-OUS.

MILI GONZALEZ Gannon & Turner Travel Associates, VIC

@memilime

Think I could stay here forever, one very happy girl. Walking around the stunning manor house with lots of ooohhs and aaahhs

KATE GASKELL Wolf & Turner Travel Associates, VIC

Trust me to find the most colourful gate in India. The Partrika Gate is in Jaipur, the Pink City, and reflects Rajasthani culture.

TARA THILLAINATH Houston & Turner Travel Associates, WA

Cathedral Gorge, Purnululu National Park

@whereskatenow

@taz_sunshine Adare Manor Hotel, Ireland The Patrika Gate, Rajasthan, India

CANADA GREAT

With beauty around every corner, wildlife to spot and diverse cultures that weave into the narrative, Canada is a destination that will change you and leave you wanting more.

BY HELEN HAYES

THERE IS A MASSIVE SPIDER in front of me. And I mean massive. It is so big I can walk under its stomach. Before you start reaching for the smelling salts, this spider is a sculpture standing outside the National Gallery of Canada in Canada’s capital, Ottawa. Called Maman (Mother), and created by Louise Bourgeois, she is over nine metres tall and has a sac containing 32 marble eggs. Once the heart rate returns to normal, I explore the rest of this incredible gallery, which has one of the finest collections of Indigenous and Canadian art in the world.

Canada has a plethora of wonderful museums, galleries and historic sites, that tell the story of Canada’s past. Citadel Hill in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has been fortified since 1749, when the city was founded by the English. Signal Hill in St John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, was another important fortification constructed in 1697, and notably, in 1901, where Guglielmo Marconi stood to receive the first transatlantic wireless transmission.

In Saskatchewan, Wanuskewin (Gathering Place) is an interpretive centre, and while it is new, it has been a sacred site and gathering place to the first peoples of the Northern Plains for more than 6,400 years. Canada’s longest running archaeological dig continues there today. Going back even further, visit the Dinosaur Provincial Park outside Calgary, Alberta, a spectacular site that contains about 35 species of dinosaur, dating back 75 million years.

Stroll around Old Quebec with its fortifications and stunning historic landmarks in the Upper Town, including the Citadelle fort and the grand Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel. Ride the funicular to Lower Town to explore Quartier Petit Champlain, with a 1688 stone church, Place Royale square and the boutiques of Rue du Petit Champlain.

REGENERATE AND RECONNECT

Discover a more immersive way to travel by reconnecting with nature, diverse cultures, and vibrant local communities. Canada offers a wealth of experiences that allow travellers to forge meaningful connections whether it is standing in awe of the Northern Lights in the Yukon, Northwest Territories or Manitoba, marvelling at the power of Niagara Falls in Ontario, dog sledding through the pristine snow in Nunavut, or kayaking on Alberta's crystal-clear lakes. Admire the vibrant fall colours in Thousand Islands National Park, Banff, or Jasper, and in winter, strap on skis or snowboards to explore achingly beautiful terrain in world-class resorts.

Connecting with people is always easy over food, whether you are indulging in oysters in Whitehorse in the Yukon, lobster in Shediac, New Brunswick or on Prince Edward Island, poutine in Quebec. There are some wonderful food tours as well, in Calgary, Montreal, and Toronto, and a visit to famous markets like ByWard in Ottawa, is essential.

Old Quebec, Canada

Niagara Falls, Ontario

A BC STATE OF MIND

From east to west, from the Rocky Mountains to the Coast Mountains and to the Pacific Ocean, BritishColumbia is overendowed with nature’s gifts. The achingly beautiful peaks are blessed with teal blue lakes and green-topped slopes, perfect for adventure in spring and autumn. Picture yourself kayaking, hiking, climbing, or biking in majestic scenery, spotting wildlife from bears and moose to otters and orcas.

Seeing bears in the wild is on the bucket-list for many, and British Columbia has many spectacular places to see them, whether on a tour or at a unique lodge. Spot grizzlies at Knight Inlet Lodge, an Indigenous-owned wildlife viewing destination in the heart of the Great Bear Rainforest. It is accessible only by boat or seaplane. Search for the elusive Spirit bear during a stay at Spirit Bear Lodge within the

Kitasoo Xai’xais traditional territory, and look for black bears in places such as Whistler, or Pacific Rim National Park Reserve on Vancouver Island.

On the water, off the west coast of British Columbia, marine life is plentiful, with everything from whales, to seals, sea lions, dolphins and otters. There is a range of tours by boat or seaplane in places like Clayoquot Sound near Tofino, at Campbell River, in Telegraph Cove, or join a tour from Vancouver.

Connect with Indigenous cultures in BC, with more than 200 First Nations calling this land home. Hear their ancestral stories and the land, their heritage and wildlife, by visiting some of the cultural centres and art galleries, by staying in unique accommodations, and by tasting Indigenous cuisine.

Knight Inlet Lodge is a mesmerising escape into breathtaking Canadian wilderness. It was bliss waking up to gorgeous inlet views and spending the days bear viewing, whale and dolphin spotting, and waterfall and rainforest trekking. Then we would finish the day with exquisite local cuisine in an intimate family dining room setting before retiring to our accommodation in rustic comfort.”

MELANIE RUMBLE Travel Associates Shellharbour, NSW

Whistler, Canada

FLAVOURS OF VANCOUVER

This exuberant waterfront city is on the edge of the Pacific Ocean, with Burrard Inlet to the North and the Georgia Straight to the west. It is more than just a gateway to Canada’s west coast and to British Columbia’s impressive ski resorts; you’ll need three to four days to experience its charms. Vancouver is also the jumping off point for Alaskan cruises – a wonderful place for pre-and post-cruise explorations.

Vancouver shines in all seasons with its popular sites and attractions open all year round. In winter, the city has the mildest temperatures in Canada, and is easy to walk around … just add a toque (Canadian for beanie), gloves and winter coat.

Add a helmet when you hire bikes to ride around magnificent Stanley Park, with its iconic seawall, scenic trails and attractions. And add a layer to take in the mesmerising Canyon Lights at Capilano Suspension Bridge, or the festive lights along Robson Street and Gastown.

Foodies will love Vancouver any time of year, with gourmet delights available in its ‘Flavourhoods’, from Michelin-star restaurants to Chinatown and the food stalls and tours at Granville Island, including famous Lee’s Donuts.

WHISTLER, A TRUE MOUNTAIN TOWN

While mountains always look good in white, they are arguably more beautiful in green. That is the case in Whistler, with its soaring twin peaks of Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains beckoning lovers of adventure in the warmer months. Nestled in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia, Whistler is just a two-hour drive north of Vancouver along the awe-inspiring Sea to Sky Highway. Whether you choose to drive or fly on a seaplane or helicopter, both options are memorable ways to start your journey. Go for walks in the fresh, mountain air, or take to two wheels on a medley of trails. Soar through the trees on ziplines, play golf, paddle on a glacier-fed lake, and see the unmatched beauty of the mountains from a helicopter or float plane. Don’t miss riding the PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola, which doubles as a work of art with exteriors painted by local artists and tackle the Cloudraker Skybridge and Raven’s View for adrenaline-fuelled views to thrill.

Whistler Village is one of a kind, with its vibrant pedestrian-only streets. Browse the shops, have long lunches on restaurant patios adorned with flowers, and immerse yourself in the local culture and surroundings by visiting the Squamish Lil'Wat Cultural Centre, enjoying a bear viewing tour or chilling out with a massage at the Scandinave Spa, before going back to your luxury accommodation with spectacular mountain views.

Vancouver, Canada

Whistler, Canada

Capilano Suspension Bridge, Vancouver

CROSS CANADA WITH VIA RAIL

Travelling on VIA Rail’s The Canadian train will take you from Toronto to Vancouver, traversing 4,466 kms through Canada’s heart. The view out the dome cars or carriages will showcase different landscapes from mountain ranges to the Prairies, and everything in between. Experience it in Prestige Class, which includes alcoholic beverages, larger contemporary cabins with double beds that look out a large window, private ensuite showers, concierge service, flat-screen televisions and enhanced dining options. The train runs all year round, but winter is an excellent time to go.

Once in Toronto, consider riding VIA’s Corridor Trains, brand new state-of-the-art trains that run from Québec City to Montréal, Ottawa and Toronto, with stunning views around the Great Lakes and the Saint Lawrence River. Ride in Business Class to access in-station Business lounges (where available), enjoy priority boarding, free Wi-Fi and a delicious meal. These award-winning carriages are a more sustainable way of travelling compared to driving or flying and are so comfortable and relaxing. Just sit, chat, or enjoy the view.

WE RECOMMEND THE CANADIAN RAIL EXPERIENCE

Ride the rails on this eight-day Canadian rail experience, which will take you across country from Toronto to Vancouver on VIA Rail’s legendary The Canadian train. Relax in a private Prestige Class Cabin, and enjoy fine food aboard and even finer views. Spend a night in Toronto, and three nights in Vancouver.

Click to uncover more »

WE RECOMMEND

HUDSON BAY ODYSSEY

Travel to Hudson Bay for a seven-day one of a kind expedition. Explore Winnipeg before venturing to Churchill for four nights in the Nanuk Polar Bear Lodge where you’ll have multiple chances to look for polar bears, and other wildlife, on guided tours. At night look skywards for the Northern Lights.

Click to uncover more »

BEARS, BELUGAS

AND NORTHERN LIGHTS

Wild Manitoba is, for the most part, as nature intended. Uncrowded, except for wildlife. In Churchill, known as the Polar Bear Capital of the World, be awestruck when you see these beautiful, endangered animals up close, especially if you are in a tundra vehicle or staying in a mobile tundra lodge. Look out your window when you wake and you might have a curious bear looking back at you.

This sub-Arctic region is so remote you cannot drive in, you can go by air or VIA Rail train from Winnipeg, or on an expedition cruise with Silversea. In summer, Hudson Bay is also home to 60,000 belugas, providing bucket-list sightings that you will never forget.

With Manitoba being located directly under the Auroral oval, it is also one of the best places to see the Northern Lights. Ambient light is virtually non-existent, so the skies are remarkable, whether star gazing, or watching nature’s own light show, with the Northern Lights coming out to play around 300 nights a year.

To find out more about Canada, or to book, speak to your Travel Associates Advisor.

ALL

ABOARD

Step on board as we give you a first-person account as to what it is like to ride the iconic Rocky Mountaineer train.

BY HELEN HAYES

Shoe Lake, Manitoba

Rocky Mountaineer

SINCE 1990, ROCKY MOUNTAINEER has showcased the stunning scenery of Western Canada and the Canadian Rockies to visitors worldwide, with the first US route, Rockies to the Red Rocks, established in 2021. Passengers marvel at the landscapes, enjoy exquisite cuisine, and share excitement over spotting wildlife. Whether travelling from Vancouver to Jasper or Banff, or from Denver to Moab, this unique experience will be unforgettable. Step onboard with us as we ride the First Passage to the West route, from Vancouver to Banff.

I really enjoyed the ‘Rockies to the Red Rocks’ journey over two days between Denver, Colorado and Moab, Utah. We saw canyons and natural archways, including Ruby Canyon, Mount Garfield and crossed the Continental Divide. I would recommend SilverLeaf Plus, as this gives you access to a lounge car, offering additional space indoors to sit back, relax and take in the scenery. You can also go outside onto a small viewing area to get some exceptional photos.”

KYLIE WRIGHT

Wright & Turner Travel Associates, NZ

WE RECOMMEND

ROCKIES TO THE RED ROCKS EXCURSION SALT LAKE CITY

Depart from Denver on this seven-day journey, including two days in Denver before boarding Rocky Mountaineer in SilverLeaf Plus for the two-day trip from Denver to Moab, with a night in the hot springs town of Glenwood Springs. Explore the adventure capital, Moab, before transferring to Salt Lake City. Click to uncover more »

BEFORE BOARDING

Check in for your Rocky Mountaineer journey at your hotel or one of their guest centres. Next morning, pack what you need for the day and leave your Rocky Mountaineer-tagged luggage outside your hotel room. It will be waiting for you in your Kamloops hotel room. Board the motorcoach at the hotel to meet the train, have a welcome drink and walk the red carpet. All the staff line up on the platform, the whistle blows along with the cry of “All Aboard!”, and on we go to find our seats and the route map in the seat pocket. We are in GoldLeaf Service, and settle into our very large, comfortable seats upstairs and admire the glass-dome, knowing we’ll have amazing views along the way. We are off.

DINE IN STYLE

An à la carte breakfast is served in the dining room downstairs and it is so elegant. There is ample choice, including Smoked Salmon avocado toast and the Eggs Benedict with Canadian bacon. Meals are done in two sittings, but never fear, if you are in the second sitting you receive delicious snacks like cinnamon rolls to tide you over. One thing is for sure, you will not go hungry. This is proven again at lunch. The food is easily as good as a five-star hotel and as with all of the meals, the chef and kitchen staff handled my dietaries with ease and grace. The chefs – each railcar has its own culinary team – are miracle workers.

Ruby Canyon, USA

ALONG THE WAY

ONTO BANFF

En route to Kamloops, we mingle with other guests, stopping mid-chat if there is a bear or another animal sighting. Our train hosts are excellent wildlife spotters and are full of helpful information, and we learn a lot about the areas we are passing through, the wildlife, the local produce, and the history behind the train. The Canadian Pacific Railway was built in the 1880s to connect Canada from coast to coast and it took a lot of engineering wizardry and hard work. The owner of the Canadian Pacific Railway, William Cornelius Van Horne, was so taken with the Rockies that he wanted to show it off to visitors from around the world. That meant building luxury hotels, including Fairmont Banff Springs. He said: “If we can’t export the scenery, we’ll import the tourists.” And he did.

But before we reach the Rockies, we travel through the Fraser Valley past lush, green landscapes. We see the Coast Mountains, travel along the Fraser River, and cross it at Cisco Crossing, and Black Canyon. The word comes from our host that Hell’s Gate is coming up soon, so we head to the viewing platform to get some photos. You can see the torrent of water barreling through the narrow opening.

All too soon we are in Kamloops, and we all disappear to our hotels.

In partnership with Rocky Mountaineer

We eagerly board the train for the journey to Banff, and devour coffee and another beautiful breakfast as we head into the Shuswap region. We pass by the Hoodoos in their yellow-green coats, and soon, we have mountains on all sides, each achingly beautiful. We travel alongside the Kicking Horse River, and our hosts talk about the culture and history of this route. We pass through Craigellachie, which is where the ‘last spike’ was placed, completing the Canadian Pacific Railway.

We travel through the Spiral Tunnels, and learn how this was the hardest section of the entire track to build. It is a remarkable piece of engineering. By now, the mountains are even more majestic, and most of us are silent as we just take in the ethereal beauty. We see Castle Mountain, which is aptly named, and all too soon we are in Banff, the steep walls of Cascade Mountain standing sentinel beside this postcardpretty place.

We give a silent nod of thanks to William Cornelius Van Horne and wonder what he would make of the luxurious Rocky Mountaineer trains. He would definitely approve.

WE RECOMMEND

RAINFOREST TO GOLD RUSH GRAND ADVENTURE

This 12-day journey includes three days onboard Rocky Mountaineer, from Vancouver to Jasper, with two days in Vancouver before you embark. From Jasper, head down the Icefields Parkway to Banff, Lake Louise and Calgary. There are many scenic highlights including Bow Lake, the Columbia Icefield, Emerald Lake and Lake Louise.

Click to uncover more »

Castle Mountain, Banff National Park

WHISTLER KAMLOOPS

ROCKY MOUNTAINEER’S ROUTES

2 DAY | First Passage to the West Between Vancouver and Banff stopping in Kamloops

2 DAY | Journey through the Clouds Between Vancouver and Jasper stopping in Kamloops

3 DAY | Rainforest to Gold Rush

Between Vancouver and Jasper stopping in Whistler and Quesnel

2 DAY | Rockies to the Red Rocks (USA) Between Denver and Moab stopping in Glenwood Springs

Scenic Highway/ Motorcoach/ Transfer

BRITISH COLUMBIA NEVADA

READY FOR RAIL?

Book your next one of a kind rail journey with Travel Associates. Contact your Travel Associates Advisor to find out more.

VANCOUVER

MOAB

LAS VEGAS

SALT LAKE CITY

DENVER

JASPER

LAKE LOUISE

BANFF

CALGARY

ALBERTA

UTAH

COLORADO

QUESNEL

GLENWOOD SPRINGS

A R T for Art’s Sake

One of the best ways to explore a city is to visit its best museums, showcasing art and history on an often grand scale. Here are some of our favourites.

BY SUE WALLACE

CAIRO’S GRAND EGYPTIAN MUSEUM set to officially open soon, shimmers with shades of grandeur combined with amazing artefacts that leave you in awe. Known as GEM, it’s been 20 years in the making and is believed to have cost more than $1 billion. The stunning museum is well worthy of housing Egypt’s amazing heritage. Located near the Pyramids of Giza, it will ensure treasures of the past are preserved for future generations, as it is crowned the largest, most modern, and the most renowned museum in the world.

Showstoppers include the impressive Grand Hall with an imposing statue of Ramses II and the enchanting Grand Staircase Gallery with 60 historically significant artefacts.

ART Cities

Paris is home to many museums and galleries including the stunning Musee d’Orsay housed in a former Beaux-Arts railway station, on the banks of the River Seine. You will find the world’s largest collection of Impressionist and post-Impressionist masterpieces here. Works by Claude Monet, Edouard Manet, Degas, Renoir, Cézanne, Seurat, Sisley, Gauguin, and Van Gogh will leave you spellbound.

London is another art city with its Natural History Museum housing 80 million items in five major collections including botany, entomology, mineralogy, palaeontology and zoology. Madrid’s beautiful Museo Nacional Del Prado showcases the world’s richest and most comprehensive collection of Spanish paintings, as well as Italian and Flemish masterpieces. Home to Dutch masters including Rembrandt, Vermeer and van Gogh, the Netherland’s Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam also traces the highlights of 800 years of Dutch history.

Museo Nacional Del Prado, Madrid

Musee d’Orsay, Paris

Visit the astonishing Library of Congress in Washington DC, the biggest library in the world. It features 164 million items on 1,350 kilometres of bookshelves. Highlights include the Thomas Jefferson library, the reading room, the Gutenberg Bible and the Martin Waldseemüller map found in 1507 in Bavaria. It was the first map to show the word ‘America’.”

KAREN MAJSAY

Low & James Travel Associates, NSW

ART in the USA

WE RECOMMEND

THE PLAZA HOTEL & THE MET

The Plaza Hotel, New York City has hosted a who’s who of VIPs with its 282 guestrooms including 102 opulent suites and its exquisite Palm Court, with its stained-glass dome. A private guided tour of the Metropolitan Museum of Art is included in this package, with exhibitions including Collecting Inspiration: Edward C. Moore at Tiffany & Co, on until October 2024, and Caspar David Friedrich: The Soul of Nature from February to May 2025.

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New York city is home to some of the world’s greatest art museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art and MOMA – the Museum of Modern Art. Both offer memorable VIP experiences with guided tours that showcase outstanding highlights. The Met is the largest museum in the US, with more than 2 million works in its permanent collection ranging from Asian Art to European masterpieces. MOMA has 200,000 contemporary works including masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh, Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali.

Los Angeles’ stunning Getty Museum is renowned for its architecture, gardens, and city views as well as its collection of European paintings, drawings, sculpture, illuminated manuscripts, decorative arts, and photography.

Washington DC is also a city of museums and art galleries including the outstanding Library of Congress, founded in 1800. It is the world’s largest library with millions of books, films and video, audio recordings, photographs, newspapers, maps and manuscripts in its collections.

The National Museum of African American History and Culture is the only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life. A Smithsonian museum, it currently houses 40,000 artifacts highlighting the contributions of African Americans, including Chuck Berry’s Cadillac, a slave cabin from the 1800s and a segregation-era railway car.

The Met, New York

WE RECOMMEND

THE TASMAN HOTEL & POSH-AS DAY OUT AT MONA

Indulge yourself by staying at The Tasman, a Luxury Collection Hotel, in Hobart, with this package including Moorilla’s Posh-As Day Out tour to Mona. Enjoy the posh pit on the ferry, enjoy looking around Mona, before a comprehensive tasting at Moorilla vineyard, followed by lunch at one of Mona’s restaurants.

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ART and History

The world’s most significant museums and art galleries reveal much about a country’s past including Vasa in Stockholm, one of Scandinavia’s most visited museums.

The maritime museum on the island of Djurgarden displays the almost fully intact 17th-century 64-gun warship Vasa that was salvaged, after sinking on her maiden voyage in 1628. Jim Thompson House Museum in Bangkok showcases the home and Asian art collection of the late James H.W. Thompson, also known as the Thai Silk King. Even getting there is an experience, on a longtail boat through the klongs of the city.

Where architecture and ART shine

Eclectic museum and gallery architecture often matches the treasures held within such as the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in Cape Town. The museum building was constructed from the conversion of the 57m tall historic grain silo.

Spain’s Guggenheim in Bilbao has become an architectural landmark of the 20th century with its fascinating curves and Abu Dhabi’s Louvre was designed as a ‘museum city' in the sea with white buildings inspired from the medina and low-lying Arab settlements.

Tasmania’s MONA in Hobart, home to ancient, modern and contemporary art from the David Walsh collection is buried three levels underground. Britain's national museum of modern and contemporary art, the Tate Modern is housed in the former Bankside Power Station on the banks of the Thames. You’ll find works by Cézanne, Bonnard, Matisse, Picasso, Rothko, Pollock, Warhol and Bourgeois.

Guggenheim Museum Bilbao, Spain

Mona, Tasmania

On the

There is a lot to love about travelling with an expert company, and we have a bumper 22 pages of information on our recommended tour partners.

BY HELEN HAYES

Road

“ Touring has definitely changed for the better, with luxury tour companies curating small-group itineraries to cater for different travel styles.”

THERE IS A LOT to be said about sharing travel experiences. Seeing the Acropolis for the first time, staring over Machu Picchu, looking up at the roof of the Sistine Chapel. Being part of a small group, travelling hither and yon to see more of the world, means you share these experiences. You can chat about them on the luxury coach as you travel to your next destination. You can marvel at the history of the places you have seen over dinner, in local places that you would never have known existed if you weren’t in the capable hands of a company who has been there, done that, so you can just relax, enjoy and embrace.

Touring has definitely changed for the better, with luxury tour companies curating smallgroup itineraries to cater for different travel styles. Take your pick of slow, more immersive tours to itineraries that go on roads less travelled to uncover hidden gems, ensuring more local interactions. Tour companies are also ensuring that they are giving back to the communities they visit, are responsible global citizens and care about sustainability.

We are highlighting our preferred touring partners, who all have a point of difference, but are all highly recommended, with runs on the board and spotless reputations.

Read about G Adventures’ Geluxe Collection, with community tourism at its heart, and luxury is blended with authentic connections

and active experiences. These new itineraries feature an OMG Stay, and OMG Days, where you can choose between two fantastic activities exploring a destination your way.

Bunnik Tours is a family run, South Australianowned company that has been looking after discerning travellers for almost three decades. To add luxury to your itinerary, consider Bunnik’s In-Style range of tours, with a maximum of 16 people. Two new In-Style tours are being added in 2025, to Morocco and Turkey.

Since 1918, Collette has been operating tours, and has grown from one vehicle to now offering more than 170 tours on seven continents. There are multiple tour types appealing to all types of travellers, but we are most impressed by the Explorations Small Group style.

To discover more of Australia, Inspiring Journeys offers intimate group tours with an average of 16 guests. The passionate Journey Directors are brimming with local knowledge, and cannot wait to share some of Australia’s best destinations on three new tours, in Tasmania, the Kimberley and South Australia.

On Intrepid’s Premium trips, with a maximum of 12 like-minded guests, local experts will uncover a host of hidden gems and secret spots with over 100 Premium tours to choose from, including Vietnam, India and Morocco.

COMMUNITY AND COMFORT

Enjoy a blend of community, comfort, and carefully curated adventure on a Geluxe Collection journey with G Adventures.

BY ALENEY DE WINTER

Machu Picchu, Peru

IN THE HEART of Peru, the Sacred Valley awakens. A crisp mountain breeze swirls whispers of Inca lore through villages nestled between emerald fields and ancient ruins. In nearby Cusco, the ancient capital, travellers pause to acclimatise, surrounded by majestic cathedrals and ancient Inca stonework that tell tales of conquest and ingenuity. Here, bustling plazas thrum with energy while hidden alleyways reveal cobbled streets worn smooth by the tread of countless footsteps, inviting explorers to uncover the secrets of people and place.

A steaming cup of coca tea warms the hands, a simple gesture steeped in tradition and a prelude to the extraordinary adventure that awaits: a four-day trek along the Inca Trail, passing ancient ruins and surrounded by mystical vistas. Along the way, comforts like cots, mattresses, and blankets ensure rejuvenating rest, and meals prepared by the cook over the campfire add vigour to each step towards that first jaw-dropping glimpse of Machu Picchu. This isn't about ticking boxes on a travel list; it's about immersing oneself in the heart of Peruvian life, connecting with local communities, learning their stories and traditions, and savouring both hospitality and an explosion of flavours in generously shared meals. This is The Geluxe Collection – a harmonious blend of community, comfort and curated active adventures from tourism trailblazer G Adventures.

WHY GO DELUXE WHEN YOU CAN GO GELUXE

Travellers are increasingly seeking meaningful experiences, driving the demand for community tourism, a core principle of leading escorted small group adventure operator G Adventures. Their approach fosters genuine exchanges between travellers and locals, promoting shared responsibility and enriching the travel experience. This mutual exchange allows travellers to give back to the communities they visit. But does that mean giving up comfort?

Not with The Geluxe Collection, where each moment of each trip is meticulously crafted to provide an elevated active experience, blending luxury with authentic connections and memorable adventures. From sumptuous accommodations and palate-pleasing meals to thoughtfully paced itineraries, every detail is designed for maximum enjoyment and relaxation. But at the heart of every Geluxe trip is community tourism. Guided by G Adventures’ Chief Experience Officers (CEOs) – local experts handpicked for their expertise and deep local knowledge – travellers are invited to delve deep into traditional stories, immerse themselves in traditions, and share meals at family tables, experiencing the local way of life in vivid detail. All while making a positive impact that resonates for generations to come.

Stand-out accommodation is central to the Geluxe experience. Each trip includes an “OMG Stay”, a place to stay that has been handpicked for its connection to the destination, whether that is its rich history, captivating design, or extra sparkle that embodies the location with a touch of whimsy and wonder. Whether waking up in the heart of Cambodia's Cardamom Mountains at Cardamom Tented Camp, escaping to the serenity of Pu Luong Natura Resort in Vietnam, enjoying a taste of Mexico's rich history at Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, or enjoying an authentic desert experience at Imperial Glory Lodges in Morocco, each Geluxe trip promises authentic cultural and elevated culinary experiences.

La Fortuna, Costa Rica

Hacienda Sotuta de Peón, Mexico

WE RECOMMEND

PERU: LIMA, THE SACRED VALLEY, & THE INCA TRAIL

Spend an intoxicating 11 days exploring Peru, from Lima to Cusco. Do the fourday hike on the Inca Trail to breathtaking Machu Picchu, a once in a lifetime adventure. Explore the neighbourhoods of Miraflores and Barranco by bike in Lima, and before your trek, see ancient ruins and experience traditional cultures in the Sacred Valley.

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Miraflores, Lima

Cusco, Peru

Merzouga Desert, Morocco

‘‘

G Adventures’ Explore Kruger tour offers an incredible safari experience, blending adventure with responsible travel. Our very experienced guides (including a National Geographic expert) enhanced the whole journey by taking us deep into the culture and history of this bucket list destination. The very comfortable lodgings and seamless logistics made for a stress-free journey.”

RENEE HOPPING

Houston & Turner Travel Associates, WA

OMG DAYS ARE GREAT DAYS

Imagine a day tailored to your tastes, filled with experiences that ignite your passions. “OMG Days” offer the freedom to choose between two fantastic activities on each trip, revealing your destination in distinct, memorable ways that ensure the journey is perfect for you.

For example, in Porto, Portugal, glide through charming neighbourhoods and along the stunning coastline on an e-bike or drift along the river on a cruise, followed by a port wine tasting in historic Vila Nova de Gaia. In Hoi An, Vietnam, paddle from the Cua Dai bridge to a tranquil

fishing village or explore the ancient My Son ruins with a local guide, returning by boat. In Göcek, Turkey, the Lycian Way offers a similarly delightful dilemma. Do you hike the scenic coastal paths with breathtaking Mediterranean views or opt for sea kayaking around Saint Nicholas Island’s rocky coves?

OMG Days allow you to shape your travel experience to your interests – whether history, adventure, or culinary delights – ensuring each moment is uniquely unforgettable.

Porto, Portugal

WHERE YOU CAN GO GELUXE

G Adventures' Geluxe Collection offers 45 curated itineraries that blend elevated active experiences with exploration across 26 destinations as diverse as Vietnam, Peru, Turkey, Japan, Costa Rica and Morocco, nourishing your soul and leaving a lasting legacy.

Imagine kayaking through the ethereal Ha Long Bay in Vietnam, cooking with a local chef, trekking through rice terraces, and a local community stay in Pu Luong. Or perhaps the journey from Lima to Cusco, trekking the Inca Trail with a softer landing, is more your travel style.

Unveil the treasures of Turkey, from the bustling Grand Bazaar of Istanbul to the otherworldly rock formations of Cappadocia, before hitting the breathtaking trails of the Turquoise Coast. Hike, kayak, and explore ancient villages on an adventure through Japan, washed down with sake, and a soak in a soothing hot spring. Or immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Morocco as you explore medinas, hike dramatic gorges, and ride camels at sunset across the vastness of the Sahara Desert. All with an emphasis on comfort andnthoughtful travel.

Forget impersonal itineraries and rushed, tick-the-box tours. The Geluxe Collection offers a different path with trips that weave comfort, responsible practices, and cultural immersion into journeys that enrich both travellers and the communities they explore.

Contact your Travel Associates Advisor to find out more about G Adventures’ Geluxe Collection.

WE RECOMMEND

SOUTHERN AFRICA: NATIONAL PARKS OF ZIMBABWE & KRUGER WILDLIFE TRACKING

This active Geluxe adventure will take you from Victoria Falls to Cape Town over 20 days. Experience OMG moments at Victoria Falls, ride the Elephant Express in Hwange National Park, and spend two days at in Pridelands Conservancy learning what it takes to be a guide. Cycle through vineyards in Franschhoek and climb up Table Mountain in Cape Town. Click to uncover more »

Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe

LOCAL HEROES

To dive deep into a destination, small-group touring is the way to go, and Intrepid does it in style.

BY HELEN HAYES

I AM PADDLING a kayak through an otherworldly landscape, with tree-clad rocky peaks jutting out of the calm water all around. I am in Ha Long Bay, amid just a small portion of the 1600-odd limestone karsts that dot this part of Vietnam. The photos I have seen of it in countless magazines do not do it justice, and I stop paddling and just take in the scene before making my way back to the mother ship.

Ha Long Bay is just one of many wonderful memories I have of Vietnam, including the chaotic hustle and bustle of Ho Chi Minh City, where even crossing the road is an experience. The Reunification Palace, the sobering War Remnants Museum, the chaos of the Ben Thanh market and the challenging Cu Chi tunnels are all memorable and significant.

Elsewhere around Vietnam, Hoi An is an absolutely beautiful city on the Thu Bon River and is fashion central to have some outfits made, while in Hue, the Imperial Citadel and My Son Sanctuary are fascinating historic sites, with the latter dating back to the 4th century. Hanoi also shines with highlights including the Temple of Literature, One Pillar Pagoda and the Old Quarter.

‘‘Intrepid have different travel styles and their small group travelling appeals to all walks of life. Their guides are locals who are so passionate about their culture and country. The highlights of my Best of Cambodia and Vietnam tour with Intrepid were Angkor Wat –an incredibly magical place to see –and in Vietnam, the food, and doing a guided tour on a motorbike in Hue. Such a great experience.”

TANIA O’REILLY

Wright & Turner Travel Associates, NZ

Angkor Wat, Cambodia

When it comes to travelling, there's a world of difference between seeing a destination and truly experiencing it. We love that Intrepid understands that, with their itineraries curated by people who know the places you will visit, inside and out. With Intrepid’s Premium trips, their local experts will uncover a host of hidden gems and secret spots that will weave another layer of enrichment into your travels, as will the range of exclusive experiences.

On Intrepid’s Premium Vietnam In Depth trip, learn what it means to be a local with exclusive experiences that explore the country’s fascinating history and delve into the culinary delights. In Hue, explore a local market with an expert chef before going back to his home for a cooking class, teaching you how to turn these fresh ingredients into delicious Vietnamese dishes. Learn to make sushi on the Premium Japan trip, and enjoy a guided meditation session with a Zen Buddhist monk. Spice things up on Premium Sri Lanka In Depth with next level experiences including a cooking class in Galle,

PREMIUM INDIA

WE RECOMMEND

This 10-day Premium round trip journey from Delhi will uncover the wonders of India’s north. Marvel at the Pink City of Jaipur, search for tigers on safari in Ranthambore National Park, be left spellbound by the Mughal splendours of Delhi and Agra, and soak up the ambience of holy Varanasi on a sunrise cruise.

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a tour of a tea plantation, a high tea in Nuwara Eliya and a barbecue dinner in Dambulla. And in Morocco, go from the city to the Sahara on Premium Morocco In Depth, where you’ll enjoy a picnic at the ruins of Volubilis, a cooking class in Tahanaout, a medfouna demonstration in Khemliya and a home-cooked pastilla dinner in Fes.

Each of Intrepid’s Premium itineraries also include a feature stay in a unique property handpicked for its historical significance, its unusual or exceptional local experience or to showcase the local architectural style. In Vietnam take in Ha Long Bay’s natural beauty on board a traditional junk-style boat complete with authentic touches and modern amenities, while in Japan, relax in a traditional ryokan in the hot springs town of Hakone surrounded by mountain views and with a private onsen. Soak up the history at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya Hotel in Sri Lanka, a National Heritage property established in 1891, or experience the opulence of the Hotel Narain Niwas Palace in Jaipur, on Premium India.

SMALL GROUPS BIG ADVENTURES

Experience shows in the world of travel, and Intrepid has been taking travellers around the globe since 1989. Premium is the peak travel style, with a maximum of 12 like-minded guests who appreciate the finer things in life. These itineraries have free time built in to allow guests to do their own thing, and include arrival transfers, daily breakfast, luggage porterage, and incidental tipping (excluding the leader's tip).

By travelling with Intrepid you are also contributing to their mission of using travel as a force for good. Intrepid is B Corp certified and has been carbon neutral since 2010.

With over 100 Premium Tours to choose from around the world, let Intrepid lead the way on your next trip. The world is waiting.

Contact your Travel Associates Advisor to find out more about Intrepid's journeys.

WE RECOMMEND PREMIUM VIETNAM

Spend eight days immersing into the delights of Vietnam. In Hanoi, explore the sights with a local to uncover the intriguing mix of French to Asian traders, settlers and indigenous peoples, and dine in legendary KOTO café. Enjoy a luxury stay on a boat in Ha Long Bay and explore Hoi An, before discovering bustling Ho Chi Minh City.

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Ninh Binh, Vietnam

Marrakesh, Morocco

big travels

Marrakesh, Morocco

When travelling in far-flung destinations, do it In-Style with Bunnik Tours, a better way of touring.

BY SUE WALLACE

TRAVEL OPENS your eyes and heart to different cultures, other ways of living, and diverse landscapes; and Morocco is the perfect example. Waking in a traditional khaimas tent made of camel skin in the Sahara Desert is a one of a kind experience. With the sun slinking over the sands of the Sahara Desert, Morocco is a majestic sight to behold.

We are at the Merzouga Luxury Desert Camp, among the dunes of the Erg Chebbi Desert. It's a special experience on Bunnik Tours’ Morocco In-Style itinerary. We experience a camel ride at sunset atop the dunes, an authentic Moroccan dinner under the stars, and learn about the Berber culture while sipping Moroccan tea and listening to Gnaoua music during a visit to the nomadic desert village of Khamlia.

There are many highlights on the Morocco In-Style tour. The vibrant city of Marrakesh has many attractions including the beautiful Jardin Majorelle created by French painter Jacques Majorelle as a sanctuary and botanical laboratory in 1922. Pops of bright midnightblue buildings contrast with many hues of lush green plants, creating an enchanting garden with a labyrinth of crisscrossing alleyways. The famous market square, Jemaa el-Fna has been bustling with people for 1,000 years. You’ll see everything from a flute-playing Moroccan enticing a cobra out of a brightly coloured woven basket, to stalls jammed with ceramics, colourful clothes, inexpensive throws, rugs, dishes, jewellery, artwork and musical instruments.

Merzouga Desert, Morocco

WE RECOMMEND MOROCCO IN-STYLE

This 16-day experience will take you from Casablanca to Ouarzazate, exploring the imperial cities of Marrakesh, Fez and Meknes en route. Morocco will charm you with its ancient wonders, stunning natural vistas, local delicacies and vibrant markets. Savour every minute of your highlight stay in a luxury desert camp amongst the dunes of the Erg Chebbi Desert.

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Travel In-Style

Bunnik Tours is a South-Australian-owned and family run company that is celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2025. It is known for its excellent small-group tours that are limited to a maximum of just 20 guests and as low as 12 for some tours. The first In-Style Tour – where there is a maximum of 16 people – conducted by Bunnik Tours was in Sri Lanka, uncovering some of its many cultural, scenic and culinary delights with guests delighted to be immersed in this intoxicating destination. This tour type proved to be so successful with guests, that more tour options were added, including South America, Egypt and Jordan.

Whether in Sri Lanka, South America, Egypt, Jordan or other In-Style tour destinations, these tours live up to their name. Guests stay in luxurious, unique accommodation that is fourto-five star, and is usually in smaller hotels that are packed with character and charm yet are close to the city action. Guests can also expect exclusive fine-dining experiences in mesmerising locations that will linger in the memory almost as long as the flavours dance around the palate. Worries and stresses are carried away on the breeze, as everything is taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the experiences and the journey. With Bunnik Tours, itineraries include return flights, all sightseeing, Special and Deluxe Experiences and tipping.

‘‘When you travel with Bunnik, you become part of the Bunnik Family. I travelled with Bunnik to Sri Lanka, exploring Galle, hiking the spectacular Sigiriya Rock, and relaxing in the fabulous Galle Face Hotel in Colombo. We mingled with local families and shared in special dining experiences offered only to Bunnik guests. My personal highlight was our sunset lagoon boat ride and BBQ dinner in Negombo.”

BLAIR DAVIS

Wolf & Turner

Travel Associates, VIC

There are many advantages to joining one of the small group tours provided by Bunnik Tours. As well as seeing all the major attractions of a destination, travellers can culturally immerse themselves in exclusive, elevated experiences which larger groups don’t have access to. Your fellow guests will become your friends, and you will feel like you are travelling and exploring, with family.

Even the transport is part of the experience, as Bunnik Tours uses a variety of transport types that are unique to the destination. And when it comes to coach travel, expect spacious coaches where there is more room for everyone to spread out with plenty of spare seats.

Sigiriya Rock, Sri Lanka

Morocco and Turkey take the In-Style stage

In exciting news, the In-Style Tour range features two brand new tours in 2025, including the Morocco In-Style tour – with April to October departures – and the Turkey In-Style tour, which has April to September departures.

The Morocco In-Style tour, which offers 4 to 4.5-star rating accommodation, will enchant guests with experiences including high tea at the Royal Mansour Marrakesh, an unforgettable dining experience at the esteemed Singulier Pluriel, the luxury desert camp in the middle of the Sahara Desert mentioned above, and the opportunity to spice things up by learning to cook like the locals in a Moroccan riad.

The Turkey In-Style Tour features Istanbul, the ancient city on the Bosporus, with the architectural marvels of the Hagia Sophia, the ethereal Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and many hidden gems waiting to be explored. Settle in for high tea at the historic Pera Palace Hotel, sample local wines and regional snacks at Karnas Vineyards – a family owned boutique winery, get hands-on during a cooking class with locals in Şirince village, and savour Turkey’s famous delicacies including Baklava, Turkish coffee, Turkish Delight and more.

There is only one way to explore wondrous destinations such as Turkey and Morocco, and that is In-Style.

Contact your Travel Associates Advisor to find out more about Bunnik’s In-Style Tours.

“Savour Turkey's famous delicacies including Baklava, Turkish coffee, Turkish Delight and more...”

WE RECOMMEND

TURKEY IN-STYLE

Uncover the rich history, culture and landscapes of Turkey, on this 14-day journey with an added touch of luxury. With a maximum of 16 people, explore Turkey’s diverse offerings including Istanbul, Gallipoli, Kuşadasi, Ephesus, Cappadocia – where you will stay in a stunning cave hotel – and Bodrum, where you will see the Mausoleum of Halicarnassus.

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E X P L O R A T I O N S

For the culturally curious traveller, Collette’s Small Group Explorations travel awaits.

BY HELEN HAYES

‘‘Collette Explorations tours are perfect for travellers who need space and time. Their itineraries allow more time, but the smaller groups mean you get closer to the culture and feel of your destination. I have had several clients do their Japan itinerary and love the local immersion not available with larger tour groups.”

SUE WEBER Travel Associates Cronulla, NSW

IT IS THE MOST powerful thing I have ever witnessed. It is dizzying in its intensity. Mesmerising in its majesty. The thunder of the falls thrums through your feet as if the earth is moving. The spray shoots every which way, leaving me completely drenched.

This is the natural and wondrous beauty of Victoria Falls, with viewing points all along the pathway that takes you from one side to the other. The Main Falls Lookout is where the torrent is at its heaviest. Our guide let us know that we should go at 6AM, when the gates first open, to watch the sun rising behind the falls.

A one of a kind moment.

This mesmerising watery icon is just one of the highlights of Collette’s ‘Wilderness of Southern Africa: Safari by Land and Water’ itinerary,

staying three nights in each location. Stays in Hwange National Park, Chobe National Park and a safari on a luxury vessel on Lake Kariba, are just as magnificent.

Surprisingly, the place I know the least about is the one that blew my mind. Lake Kariba attracts very few tourists, but it has a lot to offer. We are on a beautiful boat with just nine cabins and we feel like we are on our own, mostly coming across local fishermen and a passing parade of wildlife from noisy hippos to dainty giraffe. The chefs on board create divine dishes, and a barbecue on the shore of the Zambezi River as the sun sets is one of those moments that will stay with me forever.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

TOURS FOR THE CULTURALLY CURIOUS

Small group tours are in demand right now, and Collette knows more about running these types of tours than most. Why? Because their first small group tour was in 1918. Jack Collette took the first group of adventurous travellers on a three-week jitney bus tour from Boston to Florida. He would be amazed to know that today, Collette –this third generation, family run company offers more than 170 tours on seven continents. There are multiple tour types appealing to all types of travellers, but we are most impressed by the Explorations Small Group style of travel, just like Jack put together over a century ago –but a lot more luxurious.

The longest-running tour operator in North America, Collette knows how to achieve excellence across the board. Excellent itineraries, local guides giving a unique perspective into the culture of the places you are visiting, and unforgettable experiences that will ensure you feel a connection to the destination. With just 14-24 tour friends, you won’t feel overwhelmed. You will feel like you are part of a tight-knit posse of culturally curious travellers, who love to live in the moment.

As for the itineraries, they are all designed for small groups. If you were in a large group, you wouldn’t be able to savour being in that hole-in-the-wall restaurant down a back cobblestoned alley with recipes passed down for generations. Or dining in a family home in an African community.

Collette

WE RECOMMEND

JAPAN: PAST AND PRESENT

From neon-lit streets filled with people to quiet shrines filled only with silence, come face-to-face with a culture thousands of years in the making. Experience a traditional Japanese tea ceremony. Explore the cities of Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka, travelling between them on the famous shinkansen bullet train.

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Kyoto, Japan

Shinjuku, Tokyo

ON TOUR WITH COLLETTE

WE RECOMMEND SICILY AND ITS ISLES

Enjoy a 13-day feast to sate your appetite for the many delights of Sicily. Explore ancient UNESCO sites in Ragusa, the Valley of the Temples and Taormina. Soak up the sun on the Isle of Salina in the Aeolian islands, do a walking food tour in Palermo, and head up Mt Etna on a 4WD off road tour.

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With Collette’s tours designed by travellers, for travellers, the itineraries are incredibly well thought-out. The Explorations Small Group style offerings include the aforementioned 14-day ‘Wilderness of Southern Africa: Safari by Land and Water’ adventure with many other destinations also available. Finland, Portugal, Ireland, Southeast Asia, the Balkans, India, Peru, Japan and Sicily are just some of the wide range of Explorations Small Group tour destinations.

In Japan, spend 13 days exploring on a cultural journey from Tokyo to Osaka. Spend an afternoon learning from the fascinating ama pearl divers on the Mikimoto Pearl Island. Be mesmerised by the ethereal Arashiyama bamboo forest, and in Hiroshima, speak to a survivor at Hiroshima’s Peace Park and Memorial Museum.

For a slice of Italian life, the ‘Sicily and its Isles’ will see you sampling specialties in Palermo’s vibrant food market, learning about the Slow Food movement at a local farm, and enjoying a guided tour of Agrigento’s UNESCO Valley of the Temples. Explore the Isle of Salina, spend three nights in Taormina and explore its iconic Greek theatre, do a guided walking tour of Ragusa (UNESCO) and visit Mount Etna on an off-road excursion.

Wherever you choose to go with Collette, you will be in the safest of hands.

For more information or to book a Collette tour, speak to your Travel Associates Advisor.

Inspired Australia

From Tasmania’s farm-to-table fare to the wild beauty of the Kimberley, embark on a curated Australian adventure where breathtaking landscapes and cultural heritage meet gourmet indulgence with Inspiring Journeys.

BY ALENEY DE WINTER

LAUNCESTON'S RESTAURANTS and markets thrum with promises of paddock-to-plate cuisine and salty seafood “fresh in this morning." Artisanal cheeses beckon from Perspex cases and delicate pastries, their exteriors crisp and golden, hinting at the buttery goodness within. A passing figure captures my attention. She's carrying a cone crowned with ice cream, its colour reminiscent of twilight skies. Curiosity nudges me forward, and I quickly find myself following suit, devouring the luxurious lavender ice cream, its delicate scent perfuming the air and its creamy sweetness singing of rich milk from contented cows. With each mouthful, Tasmania begins to reveal itself – all crisp air, rolling lavender fields and untamed coastlines. A place where nature's bounty meets culinary artistry on every plate.

On Inspiring Journeys’ seven-day ‘Tasting Tasmania & Flinders Island’ tour, you too can embark on a culinary odyssey through Tasmania and Flinders Island. From the historic streets of Launceston, UNESCO's City of Gastronomy, to the wild landscapes of Flinders Island, a rugged gem rising from Bass Strait, local experts will offer an unparalleled taste of Tasmania, inviting guests to indulge in fresh, farm-to-table fare, seafood feasts, wine, whisky, and farm- shucked oysters. Soar over Wineglass Bay and the Bay of Fires, capturing their raw beauty from a private plane. Wander through history at Brickendon Estate, savouring hot scones fresh from the old cookhouse. Unwind at Freycinet Lodge, nestled by the serene shores of Coles Bay, then wander through history at Brickendon Estate, savouring hot scones fresh from the old cookhouse.

Freycinet Lodge, Tasmania

Other inspirations

Embark on a captivating seven-day adventure with Inspiring Journeys' ‘Murray River Cruise & Wine Tour’. Begin by exploring Adelaide's Central Market and renowned cellar doors. Then uncover Hahndorf’s German heritage before setting sail along the Murray River aboard the Proud Mary, where tranquil nights beneath diamond bright stars await. Monarto Wildlife Park, teeming with wild things, throws open its gates for a thrilling safari with a side of indulgent canapes and bubbles. Uncover Hahndorf's German heritage before continuing your riverside reverie in historic Berri, Australia's fruit bowl. Throughout this journey, enjoy curated moments of pure indulgence, from savouring the freshest seasonal produce to crafting your own gin – a potent souvenir of a delicious adventure.

WE RECOMMEND

TASTING TASMANIA & FLINDERS ISLAND TOUR

Spend seven days meeting the maker, vintners and growers around Launceston, a UNESCO City of Gastronomy. Take in the stunning scenery of Bay of Fires, Wineglass Bay and Flinders Island, and tease your taste buds with culinary gems from seafood lunches, to wine, whisky, and farm-shucked oysters. Click to uncover more »

Unearthing the remote and ancient Kimberley's secrets on an epic 11-day ‘Kimberley Gorges & Gibb River Road’ adventure bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences, and quality inclusions might be more your speed. Let Kimberley hospitality wash over you on serene wilderness stays – think open fires, hearty meals, and yarns shared under a canopy of stars. Savour unique brews from Spinifex Brewery, infused with native flavours. Inspiring Journeys' expert guides will invite you to embrace the raw beauty of the outback as you cruise the Kimberley's waterways, explore the geological wonders of Chamberlain Gorges, marvel at the iconic domes of the Bungle Bungles, and enjoy dips in Barker Pool and Dalmanyi (Bell Gorge), and a soak in the therapeutic warmth of Zebedee Springs.

Bungle Bungle Range, Purnululu National Park

See Australia with Inspiring Journeys

Embrace your adventurous spirit with Inspiring Journeys. Every detail will be meticulously curated to ensure a seamless, relaxing experience that blends iconic landmarks and hidden gems, from tranquil cruises on shimmering waterways to awe-inspiring vistas that leave you breathless.

Led by passionate Journey Directors brimming with local knowledge, these intimate group tours (averaging 16 guests) offer access to one of a kind Australian destinations. Guests can expect to travel in premium comfort and unwind in unique accommodation that capture the essence of their destination. Unique dining experiences, from native bush foods to rustic outback dining and world-class wines, are a celebration of local bounty and cultural heritage.

Connecting you with descendants of ancient cultures and local storytellers who share their passion for Australia’s remarkable landscapes, Inspiring Journeys transcends the ordinary to deepen your appreciation of Australia's storied landscape.

To learn more about Inspiring Journeys and to book, speak to your Travel Associates Advisor.

‘‘ The Murray River is close to my heart as it is a lifeline for many communities. There are beautiful wetlands with abundant wildlife and a canvas of ever-changing reflections on the limestone cliffs. It winds through breathtaking scenery, where you feel like you have been transported to another world. It is a source of sustenance and inspiration and is embedded in South Australian history. Murray River is a story of beauty and resilience.”

KARALEE WATSON

Travel Associates Brighton, SA

WE RECOMMEND

MURRAY RIVER CRUISE & WINE TOUR

A two-day cruise meandering down the Murray River aboard the Proud Mary is one of the highlights of this seven-day journey. The striking d'Arenberg Cube is another, along with Adelaide’s famous Central Market and cellar doors. Monarto Safari Park, Hahndorf, with its German heritage and delightful bakeries and fruitful Berri also star.

Click to uncover more »

©Louise Edebone

Bite-sized foodie tips

Our Advisors travel all

SICILIAN SORCERY

LA MADIA, LICATA

"OMG. This is a two-Michelin-starred restaurant but value for money. The best dish was the seared cod with rockfish foam. The chef, Pino Cuttaia, even came out to talk about the dishes. I would go back in a heartbeat. Sicily as a foodies dream – other great dishes were had, including Pasta alla Norma in Catania, Busiate al pesto Trapanese in Trapani, and lamb chops encrusted in locally grown pistacchio nuts in Taormina. For the sweet lovers, feast on Cannoli, Cassata, and Brioche con granita to name just a few. Are you hungry yet?”

Recommended by NADINE WATSON TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

WHERE TO DINE IN JAPAN

6 SIX, KOURI, OKINAWA

"It’s so hard to explain how amazing this experience was. The unobstructed ocean view, the 20 course tasting menu with paired wines and sake. Every one of the courses was a work of art and the chef came out and explained the meaning behind each dish."

Recommended by IAN CARSWELL CARSWELL & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

INDONESIAN SPICE

MERAH PUTIH, SEMINYAK, BALI

"You don’t normally think of Indonesia as a fine dining destination but it is. Merah Putih is still to this day my absolute highlight of a foodie experience. It is a hidden gem right in the heart of Seminyak. Chef Wiwik effortlessley gives a modern take on traditional Indonesian dishes. As for the setting, it is beautiful."

Recommended by MELISSA WHARERAU TRAVEL ASSOCIATES MOUNT EDEN

BARCELONA TOUR

TAPAS, TAVERNS AND HISTORY TOUR, BARCELONA, SPAIN

"We loved this tour. It was an amazing experience, eating where the locals eat, learning the history of the taverns and the surrounding Barri Gòtic quarter. Sitting on milk crates in a crowded tavern eating fried fish was brilliant and the many clients I have recommend it to have also loved the experience.”

Recommended by RACHEL WILLEMSEN TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

VICTORIA POINT

HAWKER HEAVEN

LAU PA SAT, SINGAPORE

"This iconic hawker market is incredible, and was great fun! Five of us went and shared 65, yes you read it right 65 skewers! It was so cheap and an awesome experience. Yes it was busy, but it wasn’t overwhelming. A fresh coconut expertly opened on front of us was the perfect accompaniment to the BBQ skewers.”

Recommended by CANDICE FREE TRAVEL ASSOCIATES GEELONG

JOIN THE QUEUE

DON ANGIE, NEW YORK, NY

"I ate the best lasagna of my life at Don Angie, a small Modern American restaurant with a Michelin star, tucked away in the West Village. This is not just any lasagna, it is legendary, with its unique take and the fact that it is rolled. I had to line up at 4pm on a Monday night but it was so worth it. The dish is called ‘Lasagna for Two’. The menu features other delicious dishes as well, so make sure you are hungry when you go.”

Recommended by DAMIAN CLARK

TRAVEL ASSOCIATES BURLEIGH

Mediterranean immersion

For luxury at sea, Regent Seven Seas Cruises shines from bow to stern.

BY LOUISE GOLDSBURY

LEAPING OFF the side of the boat, I splash into the Aegean Sea and swim toward the hot springs of Palea Kameni. Renowned for its therapeutic waters, this volcanic island is part of the flooded caldera that forms the Santorini archipelago. Eyes closed, I float on my back and let the healing begin.

“I splash into the Aegean Sea and swim towards the hot springs of Palea Kameni”

We have come to this special place on a three-part day trip – one of the thousands of complimentary shore excursions offered by Regent Seven Seas Cruises. The tour starts with a scenic hike up a crater on a nearby islet and finishes at a winery overlooking the ocean, delightfully far from the crowds of Santorini.

Our cruise aboard Regent’s Seven Seas Grandeur sails from Venice to Athens via other dazzling destinations such as Istanbul and Kotor, Montenegro. But for many guests, the real drawcard is the spectacular ship and its exceptional onboard experience.

From the moment you step into the grand atrium, greeted with glasses of champagne, Regent delivers next-level luxury. The exquisite design sparkles in every direction: from the marble floors to more than 500 crystal chandeliers, and a ship-wide collection of 1,600 artworks. This breath-taking first impression is upheld throughout the voyage, in every stunning space and every port of call.

WE RECOMMEND

TRAVEL THROUGH TIME WITH REGENT

This 13-day Aegean adventure onboard Seven Seas Grandeur from Istanbul to Venice will immerse you in the art and history of the Mediterranean. This is an exclusive sailing in partnership with the Art Gallery of New South Wales, hosted by renowned art expert and former Art Gallery Society of NSW Executive Director – Ron Ramsey.

Click to uncover more »

Santorini, Greece

WE RECOMMEND ENCHANTED EVENINGS

From Barcelona to Rome (Civitavecchia), this 11-night voyage will take you to three countries, exploring five destinations, with two nights in each. Enjoy the delights of sunny Mallorca, be front and centre of the glamour of Monaco, be enchanted by Livorno in Tuscany, visiting Florence and Pisa, and spend two nights in Rome, exploring its magnificent historic sites.

Click to uncover more »

What it’s like onboard

The World’s Most Luxurious Fleet

Regent is renowned as the world’s most all-inclusive cruise line, with itineraries including unlimited shore excursions, drinks, dining, valet laundry service, Wi-Fi and gratuities. For guests in Concierge Suites and above, a precruise hotel package is also included.

The luxurious fleet comprises the latest and most lavish sister ships, Seven Seas Grandeur, Seven Seas Splendor and Seven Seas Explorer, and the smaller Seven Seas Mariner, Seven Seas Voyager and Seven Seas Navigator. Carrying fewer than 750 passengers, these extra-spacious ships are perfectly sized to offer a wide range of amenities in a more intimate setting.

Guests can choose from multiple speciality restaurants serving international cuisine, stylish bars, lounges and live entertainment, beautiful pool decks, and complimentary wellness facilities including whirlpools, saunas and steam rooms. The service is impeccable, with one crew member per 1.4 guests – one of the higher crew-to-guest ratios in the cruise industry.

Accommodation is larger than average, from 28 square metres to an incredible 413 square metres. Nearly every suite has a private balcony, an Elite Slumber Bed, modern bathroom and separate sitting area.

Complimentary offerings include the minibar, restocked daily with your preferences, 24-hour room service, and movies on demand. The two-bedroom, two-bathroom Regent Suite, with two original Picassos hanging outside the door, is the most extravagant, with additional perks such as an in-suite master bathroom spa retreat with unlimited treatments, priority boarding, butler service, and a private car and driver in each port of call.

Linger longer in 2026

Regent’s destination-focused itineraries are enhanced by its extensive selection of shore excursions. More than 4,500 included tours cover the culture, history and beauty of every region across the globe, from UNESCO World Heritage Sites to the local food, art and music.

The luxury cruise line has also expanded its Immersive Overnights sailings, which feature overnight stays in every port. These exclusive itineraries allow guests to enjoy evening shoreside experiences as well as mid-cruise opportunities to take a two-day excursion spending the night in a hotel.

Among the highlights of these 2026 departures, is Seven Seas Voyager’s 12-night ‘Treasures of The Adriatic’ from Venice to Istanbul. The itinerary includes two nights each in Venice, Dubrovnik, Crete, Athens and Istanbul.

In Northern Europe, Seven Seas Grandeur’s 10-night ‘Storied Scandinavia’, includes two nights each in Stockholm, Warnemünde, Copenhagen, and Oslo.

Seven Seas Mariner’s 11-night itinerary from Barcelona to Rome, spends two nights each in Barcelona, Majorca, Monte Carlo, Tuscany and Rome.

Seven Seas Voyager’s 10-night ‘Glamorous Grecian Nights’, from Athens to Istanbul, spends two nights each in Athens, Crete, Rhodes and Istanbul.

For your next grand cruising journey with Regent Seven Seas Cruises, contact your Travel Associates Advisor.

‘‘Cruising on Regent Seven Seas Explorer exceeded my very-high expectations, ensuring all-inclusive luxury on every level. The dining on board was exquisite, from lobster nachos and margaritas pool side for lunch to five courses of decadent French fare for dinner. There was so much to do on board. I recommend booking a Concierge Suite, which gives you pre-cruise accommodation and transfers.”

FRANCES WYVILL Travel Associates Caloundra, QLD

Barcelona, Spain

Regent Suite on Seven Seas Explorer

Regent Suite on Seven Seas Explorer

SEAS

THE DAY

Unlock the ancient and natural worlds by sea, from historic sites to pristine islands and culinary gems.

BY HELEN HAYES

FROM WILDLY SPECTACULAR remote regions where wildlife outnumbers people, to culturally rich coastlines dotted with cities and towns that go back for centuries with numerous civilisations adding to their charm. We have come up with some of our favourite voyages to combine art and culture with luxurious cruising pleasures.

BRITISH ISLES AND ICELAND EXPLORER

Follow in the footsteps of Viking explorers on a 27-day journey from Reykjavík to London (Greenwich) with Viking. Soak in the Blue Lagoon and learn about the Sagas in Reykavík, before taking in the majestic Westfjords and spectacular Seydisfjördur. Cross the Norwegian Sea to Tórshavn, Faroe Islands to learn about centuries-old traditions. Sail across the North Sea to Norway to the ethereal landscape of Geiranger, along with exquisite Ålesund, Flåm and spend three nights in Bergen. In Scotland explore the Shetland Islands, Inverness, Edinburgh, and the Orkney Islands before heading to Belfast, Liverpool, Dublin and Greenwich.

Click to uncover more »

A JOURNEY TO CULTURAL CAULDRONS AND MAGNIFICENT MYKONOS

History lives on this eight-day journey onboard Explora 1 from Athens to Istanbul. Pinch yourself as you look at the Parthenon, sitting atop the Acropolis. In Mykonos, combine the beach club vibe with the sanctuary of Delos, visit Volos, the mythical home of Jason and the Argonauts, while Pelion is home of the Centaurs. In Thessaloniki, there are 15 UNESCO-listed sites including Pella, birthplace of Alexander the Great, and in Kavala, marvel at the ancient city named after King Phillip II, Alexander the Great’s father. After sailing up the Bosphorus to Istanbul, marvel at its many enchanting sites.

Click to uncover more »

ANCIENT WONDERS AND NATIONAL PARKS

Geirangerfjord, Norway

Unlock the secrets of South America on an 18-day expedition with Hurtigruten from UNESCO-listed Valparaíso in Chile, up through Peru, to Ecuador, Panama and Costa Rica. Sail from Valparaíso to La Serena, Chile’s second oldest city, and Iquique, the gateway to the Atacama Desert. In Peru, explore the wildlife-rich Ballestas Islands, take in the delights of Lima, and, in Salaverry (Trujillo), be fascinated by the Chimú city of Chan Chan. In Ecuador, visit Machalilla National Park, and in Panama, Cébaco is a hidden gem only accessible by sea. In Costa Rica, visit national parks home to toucans, iguanas, sloths and monkeys, and witness conservation efforts in Curú Wildlife Refuge.

Click to uncover more »

Mykines, Faroe Islands

‘‘I love Uniworld for many reasons. First of all, the ships are stunningly beautiful floating boutique hotels. The suites are all beautifully appointed with handcrafted beds by Savoir, used by Queen Elizabeth. The dining on board is exceptional and menus change daily based on the destination. Exploring a new city every day with different curated experiences, is incredible.”

KAREN EDENBOROUGH

Tailby & James Travel Associates,

NSW

WINE & CULINARY DELIGHTS OF SPAIN, PORTUGAL & FRANCE

The food you eat in a far-flung country says a lot about its traditions and culture. Ignite your taste buds on this 12-day culinary voyage through Spain, Portugal and France onboard Scenic Eclipse II Discovery Yacht. Board in Málaga, Picasso’s home town, then cross the Strait of Gibraltar to Tangier in Morocco, meandering through the alleyways of the Medina. Sail inland to Seville, browse through the old quarter in Portimão and linger in Lisbon with its vintage trams and maritime history. Taste test your way through lively pinxtos bars in Bilbao, and cruise into the heart of Bordeaux for blissful wine tasting.

Click to uncover more »

CAPE YORK AND ARNHEM LAND

Discover the wonders of northern Australia on this 11-night art-focused voyage with Coral Expeditions. From Darwin, voyage to the Tiwi Islands to visit Tiwi Designs, one of the oldest and most artistically diverse art centres in Australia. Maningrida is home to the Arts Centre, the Djomi Museum, and the Babbarra Women’s Centre. For a one of a kind experience visit remote townships on Elcho Island, and visit the Elcho Island Art Centre at Galiwin’ku. In the Torres Strait Islands, see rock art at rugged Stanley Island, and snorkel on vibrant reefs.

Click to uncover more »

VENICE AND THE JEWELS OF VENETO

Spend eight days discovering the ethereal beauty of Venice and Northern Italy on board Uniworld’s S.S. La Venezia, ensuring a refined taste of Italia. Round trip from Venice, you will have time to soak up the rich history of this one of a kind city, before exploring hidden gems including Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello. The voyage will also take you to Chioggia, a charming southern port known for its fishing. Apart from the visual feast of these truly beautiful locations, savour the wines and cuisine of this region along the way.

Click to uncover more »

EXCLUSIVE SMALL GROUP JOURNEY | 9 DAYS

Travel through the majestic Rocky Mountains embarking on a world-renowned train journey aboard the incredible Rocky Mountaineer GoldLeaf Service. Delight in immersive nature experiences setting foot on a glacier, hiking across canyons and alongside placid lakes punctuated by stays in the most luxurious mountain retreats and indulging in incredible cuisine.

The Finest End-to-End Travel Experience

CONCIERGE SERVICES

MAGNIFICENT STAYS

EXCEPTIONAL DINING

CURATED EXPERIENCES

To book your luxury tour, please speak to a Travel Associates Advisor

A feast in Hong Kong

From Michelin stars to street food, this vibrant and vast city is the perfect place to indulge all your gastronomic appetites.

BY CARRIE HUTCHINSON

Kong

‘‘

I have travelled to Hong Kong many times but it has truly transitioned into a city that has everything. Culture, history, food and architecture are perfectly melded into a destination that is exciting, interesting and has something for everyone. It's also an amazing street food city, so don't miss out on a foodie tour!”

SUE WEBER

Travel Associates Cronulla,

NSW

IT WAS NOT A DISH I expected to eat here. At the table, a waiter is carving a huge bistecca Toscana. It’s been aged for 45 days before hitting the charcoal grill at Carna, Italian butcher Dario Cecchini’s glittering dining room committed to nose-to-tail eating. That’s the genius of Hong Kong. You can eat almost anything you want, at any time of day, and at any price point. At 9am, I’m having dim sum at legendary Luk Yu Tea House surrounded by families and shift workers. Hours later, I’m tearing into a roast goose leg at Yat Lok. An $8 bowl of noodle soup topped with king prawn wontons at Tsim Chai Kee is no contest for that $360 bistecca, but it’s a satisfying repast nonetheless. Food here is serious business and an important accompaniment to any occasion. Even a weekend visit to the Xiqu Centre, an ultra-modern venue and part of the West Kowloon Cultural District, can involve a meal, with an introduction to Cantonese theatre accompanied by traditional tea and dim sum. One thing’s for sure… You’ll never be hungry.

Carna, Hong Kong

WE RECOMMEND FLAVOURS OF HONG KONG

Stay at the divine Island Shangri-La with delicious private tours included. The Hong Kong Island Foodie Tour will see you tasting your way through Central and Sheung Wan learning how to order like a local. The Story of Kowloon in Six Tasty Dishes tour will venture deep into Lok Fu, Kowloon City and Wong Tai Sin to taste local dishes and hear stories of the area.

Click to uncover more »

From street to stars

From the perfect snack of fluffy pineapple buns and iced cappuccinos at Sai Kung Cafe & Bakery out of the buzz of the city to a three-Michelin-star Cantonese extravaganza at The Langham’s T’ang Court, wherever you are in Hong Kong there’s another delicacy to try.

Here, there are 79 Michelin-starred restaurants and 67 Bib Gourmand eateries (this recognises establishments that serve great food at moderate prices). The Bibs include Wang Fu, a Peking dumpling spot on Wellington Street surrounded by Michelin mentions. One of the thoroughfare’s more spectacular offerings is VEA, a one-star restaurant with epic views and an innovative tasting menu that blends French technique and local ingredients, from sea cucumber to bird’s nest. Amber is another culinary gem.

“On our system, we have a record of when you were last here, which menu you had and where you sat,” says executive chef Vicky Cheng. “So, when you come back, whether that’s next week or next year, we’ll make sure we have a different experience for you.” It goes some way to explaining how difficult those stars are to get and hang on to.

At the other end of the spectrum is the Temple Street Night Market. After the sun goes down, order plates of pan-fried dumplings, hot wings and fish paste-stuffed vegetables from the stalls. Still hungry? Get in line for Hong Kong egg waffles at Mammy Pancake.

Amber at The Landmark Mandarin Oriental

WE RECOMMEND

DISCOVER HONG KONG

The Langham Hong Kong plus Treasures of Kowloon private tour will be a feast for the senses. Take the Star Ferry, ride the Peak Tram, explore Aberdeen, Stanley, and learn about Hong Kong heritage visiting the Kowloon Walled City Park, Wong Tai Sin Temple – which specialises in fortune-telling – and Chi Lin Nunnery.

Click to uncover more »

Raise a glass

If you want a view with your aperitif, Avoca, on the 38th floor of the Mondrian, has a modernist aesthetic and sky-high vistas of Victoria Harbour. You can spritz a little of each of its locally inspired, signature cocktails from a perfume bottle before deciding what to order.

Antonio Lai pioneered the Multisensory Mixology concept in Hong Kong (his most famous venue is Quinary) and has won countless awards. He’s just opened The Opposites with Samuel Kwok, which offers paired cocktail offerings that highlight the duo’s different approaches.

If you’re seeking a more relaxed vibe, NY-style dive bar The Pontiac and its classic cocktails are calling. The Shady Acres, a tiny establishment where patrons spill out into Peel Street, is another great option for hard slushies, natural wines and a good range of beer.

Four days of food

Explore the dining scene in more detail at the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, which takes place over four days at the end of October. Stroll around the hundreds of stalls offering global cuisine or explore the latest trends in local wines and spirits making waves overseas. As the evening progresses, the dining will be accompanied by jazz and classical music performed by some of Hong Kong’s finest musicians and singers.

Contact your Travel Associates Advisor to find out more about the culinary delights of Hong Kong.

T’ang Court, The Langham Hong Kong

Luxury with a conscience is the new standard at these high-end hotels that are committed to giving back.

BY ALENEY DE WINTER

HOTELS with heart

Cap Karoso, Indonesia

WE RECOMMEND

CAP KAROSO

On the Indonesian island of Sumba, Cap Karoso is surrounded by azure lagoons, coral reefs and traditional villages. The 47 rooms and 20 villas showcase Sumbanese heritage, with age-old craft and contemporary art and design coming together to tell the story of the island. At its heart is a biological farm, producing fruit and vegetables for their restaurant.

Click to uncover more »

FOR THE curious EPICUREAN

Encircled by turquoise lagoons and traditional villages on the shores of a vibrant coral reef, Cap Karoso is a luxurious portal to the Indonesian island of Sumba. Explore hidden villages steeped in tradition, reconnect with nature's embrace, and savour indulgent experiences that are beyond compare. The resort blends age-old craftsmanship with contemporary art and design. Its 47 rooms and 20 villas are infused with Sumbanese heritage, modern design, and a sprinkle of artistic magic to tell the island’s story. Discover a connection to the land at Cap Karoso’s three-hectare biological farm, where the ingredients served in the resort’s restaurant and bar are grown just steps away.

Click to uncover more »

FOR THE wild AT HEART

Nestled along a riverbank in the heart of South Cardamom National Park in Cambodia, Shinta Mani Wild – A Bensley Collection, is a gamechanging luxury tented camp built along a river valley in the Cambodian rainforest. Offering plush design, exceptional hospitality, and conservation, the resort’s 15 private tents merge seamlessly into their jungle surroundings. Luxurious Wild Tents, Waterfall Tents, and a spacious two-bedroom tent showcase Bill Bensley's signature style and are accessible via an exhilarating zipline ride. The resort’s radical fusion of hospitality and cuttingedge conservation invites guests to explore the estuarine ecosystem on a custom expedition boat, help protect endangered species, or join Wildlife Alliance rangers on anti-poaching patrols.

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Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia

Shinta Mani Wild, Cambodia

FOR authentic EXPERIENCES UNDER CANVAS

Capella Ubud isn't your typical Balinese retreat. Nestled in the island's emerald heart, this sanctuary ditches traditional walls for canvas and nature, with 22 one-bedroom tents and one two-bedroom lodge tucked under a lush canopy of trees. Offering complete privacy, each retreat features a personal pool and stylish comfort, allowing you to connect with Bali's untouched natural surroundings in an unforgettable way. The resort’s passion for culture and history translates into curated experiences that immerse visitors in activities that build authentic bonds with the locals, while their Capella Youth program fosters positive change through a three-month English program and waste recycling initiative that promotes environmental responsibility and change

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WE RECOMMEND

CAPELLA UBUD

Designed by Bill Bensley, this tented camp sits in a lush forest. Its 22 onebedroom tents and one two-bedroom lodge all have private pools, which provide a slash of blue amid nature’s greenery. More than a luxury property, Capella ‘Culturists’ have curated an array of local cultural experiences that allow guests to engage with the local heritage and culture.

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FOR THE conscious KING OF THE CASTLE

The Hotel Castello di Reschio epitomises luxury intertwined with sustainability. Set amid a sprawling 1,500-hectare estate in Umbria, Italy, the extraordinary estate offers guests a choice of staying in meticulously restored ancient farmhouses or a historic castle turned into a dazzling hotel. A dedication to conservation is evident in the estates’ re-wilding efforts, nurturing forests teeming with wildlife, and organic oak and chestnut groves. Guests can engage in immersive experiences like beekeeping and foraging, contributing to the hotel's all-natural cuisine and spa rituals. Beyond luxury, Hotel Castello di Reschio fosters community with local hospitality training and supporting artisanal craftsmanship, ensuring every stay enriches both guests and the local ecosystem.

Click to uncover more »

Capella

Capella Ubud, Bali

Hotel Castello de Reschio, Italy

‘‘My stay in Singita was magical. The view from the hill at Sasakwa Lodge, looking across the Serengeti Plains from my day bed with a glass of wine is something I will never forget. We saw all of the Big 5, and flew over a huge herd of elephants on a hot air balloon ride. Unforgettable.”

KYLIE GORST

Low & James Travel Associates, NSW

HOTELS WITH HEART

EXPLORING PERU WITH A purpose

Hotel Sol y Luna in Peru is a beacon of luxury and philanthropy nestled in the Sacred Valley of the Incas. Beyond luxe accommodation in cosy stone 'casita' houses, which blend Andean charm with modern comfort, the hotel is committed to giving back. With a focus on preserving indigenous traditions and natural resources, the eco-conscious haven boasts a biological farm, nurturing the land and supplying fresh, local ingredients for their acclaimed restaurant. Their commitment extends to the community, with profits from the hotel funding a local school, ensuring a brighter future for generations to come. Guests can also participate in cultural experiences that showcase Peruvian heritage, for a memorable and socially responsible stay.

Click to uncover more »

FOR A sustainable SAFARI

Perched atop Tanzania's Sasakwa Hill, Singita Milele is the latest addition to Singita's sustainable property portfolio. Setting a new standard for luxury safaris, this private-use villa offers guests a front-row seat to Africa's great migration. With shared living spaces, including a cinema, fitness centre, and outdoor sala, plus spacious suites with private plunge pools offering stunning savannah vistas, Milele is perfect for family gatherings and special celebrations. Game drives guided by experts and Michelin-calibre cuisine highlighting local flavours enrich the experience further. Built with sustainability at its core, a stay supports the Grumeti Fund, preserving wildlife corridors and empowering local communities in and around the Singita Grumeti Reserve.

Click to uncover more »

Singita Milele, Tanzania

Singita Milele, Tanzania

Hotel Sol y Luna, Peru

‘‘Fáilte, means welcome in Ireland, and you do feel welcome everywhere you go. What I loved about being in Ireland, was the pride in their traditions, and the wonderful way the locals embrace today with their past. The incredible food and dining scene was a surprise, and the scenery is second to none.”

MELISSA MADIGAN

Jones & Turner Travel Associates, NSW

Luxury in Ireland

Where history and elegance converge

From myths and legends, to astonishing scenic beauty, colourful history, and authentic lifestyle, Ireland has a lot to offer.

BY ALENEY DE WINTER

Ballynahinch Castle, Galway

EMERGING FROM MY cloud-like bed, I draw back heavy drapes to reveal a garden leading to a babbling river, framed by the broody Benna Beola Mountains. The fairy tale view jolts me awake. I am in Ireland, and I am staying at Ballynahinch, an actual castle, built in the 16th century by a chieftain for his pirate queen bride. Not a word of a lie.

Ballynahinch, located in the Connemara is now a member of Relais & Châteaux, and is one of Ireland's finest luxury castle hotels. Its opulent interiors are adorned with antique furnishings and thoughtful details that honour the castle's past, while its warm hospitality ensures every guest feels part of its continuing story. Enjoy an exceptional meal in the Owenmore Restaurant with its art collection inside and idyllic views over the river outside. Or enjoy the more relaxed setting of the Fisherman’s Pub & Ranji Room, with authentic local produce including Killary prawns or wild salmon.

WE RECOMMEND THE EUROPE HOTEL AND RESORT

Spend three nights at The Europe Hotel & Resort, a multi-award winning five-star resort in Killarney. Located on the shores of Lough Léin in the foothills of Ireland’s highest mountain range, the scenery is achingly beautiful. Enjoy the property’s many facilities, from the lakeshore ESPA to horseriding, hiking, biking, or boat and fishing trips.

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A of Irish warmth

Hospitality is woven into the very fabric of Ireland. Forget cookie-cutter hotels; here, you'll find warm, welcoming accommodation that offers more than just thread counts and Michelin stars. They embody the essence of Ireland, without skimping on comfort or style.

From the classic elegance of The Shelbourne, a Dublin grand dame, to the modern marvel of The Marker Hotel, with its sleek design and rooftop bar, Dublin caters to diverse tastes. For a touch of quirky chic, The Wilder steps up the game. This Victorian townhouse boasts playful interiors, award-winning dining, and – wait for it – a bespoke gin experience. Craving something utterly unique? Lord it up in Mayo’s magnificent Ashford Castle, an opulent five-star castle hotel standing sentinel on the shores of Lough Corrib. Alternatively, slip into the Ice House, a 19th-century landmark once used to store ice for fishermen, now transformed into a decidedly cool hotel with an award-winning restaurant, 54° 9°, and a gamechanging spa.

In Northern Ireland, County Down’s Slieve Donard has evolved from a beloved mountain retreat to a luxurious hotel where guests can unwind with a spa visit and a dip in the sparkling pool after conquering the legendary links of Royal County Down. Or escape the ordinary at Finn Lough Forest Hideaway in Fermanagh. This resort’s unique focus is on reconnecting with nature through its spa trail journey and sleeping under the stars in ultra-luxurious bubble domes.

J.J. Farrell's Restaurant at Slieve Donard

Ice House Hotel, Ballina

May the road rise to meet you

Yes, Dublin pulses with craic (good times), in cosy pubs, where stories flow as fast as the Guinness, and Clare’s jaw-dropping Burren and will absolutely inspire awe. But what truly sets the island of Ireland apart is the sheer depth of authentic and immersive experiences, offering a heady mixture of adventure and escape that can’t be found anywhere else.

Thrill-seekers can surf world-class waves or embark on stunning coastal walks, mountain climbing adventures, and horseback explorations. History buffs can enjoy archery and falconry, sports lovers can tee off on world-class golf courses, and those simply seeking relaxation can unwind in tranquil countryside spas.

Ireland's landscapes hypnotise, with undulating emerald hills crisscrossed by stone walls and cosy villages as remarkable for their character as their stunning landscapes and history. Historic sites like Tipperary’s ancient Rock of Cashel scatter the landscape, while majestic castles such as Cork’s Blarney Castle, where kissing the Blarney Stone promises the gift of the gab, are the stuff of fairy tales. Do a foodie tour in Kinsale, fly by private helicopter over the naturally pretty Ring of Kerry and its surrounding ocean, or wander Galway's lively cobbled streets with bustling pubs pulsing with vibrant energy and traditional music.

In Northern Ireland, Belfast offers Titanic Belfast, delving into the Titanic's construction, voyage and the city’s maritime history. Raise a glass afterwards at the Titanic Distillery, or perhaps visit the brand new McConnell’s Distillery that opened in 2024 in the historic A-wing of Crumlin Road Gaol. Drive along the Causeway Coast in Antrim to marvel at the Giant's Causeway’s unique hexagonal basalt columns. Or hike up County Down’s mighty Slieve Donard, Ireland’s highest peak. For Game of Thrones fans, the official Game of Thrones Studio Tour offers the chance to walk the same halls as Daenerys Targaryen in Winterfell, explore the eerie crypt beneath Castle Black, and view the sets, costumes, and props that brought Westeros to life. In Derry/Londonderry, stretch your legs on a walking tour of the Walled City, or relax on a boat trip on the River Foyle.

Raising a glass to Ireland is part of the experience, and there are countless bars filled with bonhomie and music, and distilleries. Outside Dublin, taste Slane Irish Whisky near Slane Castle, and while in Cork, pay homage to Jameson Irish Whiskey at Midleton Distillery Experience. Wherever your journey should lead you, Ireland’s blend of luxury, warmth, and magic, will warm your heart.

WE RECOMMEND

ADARE MANOR

The exemplary Adare Manor has 103 guest rooms, original art throughout, lush parkland and impeccable service, and its championship golf course will host the 2027 Ryder Cup. This threenight tour will give you time to enjoy cocktails at The Carriage House, dinner at the Michelinstar Oak Room restaurant and experience the Padel Club.

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 Connemara  Adare  Killarney  Cashel

Tastes & Traditions of Ireland

Embark on a bespoke journey through Ireland’s enchanting landscapes and rich cultural heritage. From the vibrant streets of Dublin to the serene shores of Galway and the majestic Cliffs of Moher, enjoy a panoramic journey through Ireland visiting all the must-sees and a few hidden gems along the way.

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10-day Travel Associates signature experience in Ireland

ITINERARY INCLUSIONS

9 2-night stay at The Westbury Dublin

9 2-night stay at Ballynahinch Castle

9 2-night stay at Adare Manor

9 2-night stay at Killarney Park Hotel

9 1-night stay at Cashel Palace Hotel

9 Breakfast daily

9 Immersive visit to the Clonmacnoise Monastic Site

9 Bespoke Foodie Tour in Galway

9 Equestrian Journey and Falconry at Adare Manor

9 Enchanting Irish storytelling with a seanchai

9 Return airport transfers

9 Transfers throughout itinerary between destinations

9 The service of a dedicated travel advisor to manage your booking and more...

PRICE ON APPLICATION

Personalise your itinerary with a Travel Associates Advisor

Cliffs of Moher, County Clare

Dublin

UNITED AIRLINES POLARIS BUSINESS CLASS

CHECK-IN

As I was flying in Polaris Class the priority check-in experience was efficient and hassle free, as were the exclusive security lanes and priority boarding. The luggage allowance is remarkable for two 32 kg pieces.

LOUNGE

There is no Polaris Lounge in Melbourne so I visited the Air New Zealand lounge. The Polaris Lounge in United terminal 7 at LAX was fabulous! Modern, classy and fresh with shower suites, separate lounge area, dining choice of a buffet with fresh ingredients or a dining area with an a-la-carte menu, private work spaces for private meetings, and bar.

SEAT

I recommend 12F for the first leg and 1A for the Newark flight. There is ample storage for your bits and pieces, and the choice of movies and TV shows is vast. I loved the amenity pack as it was equipped with everything I needed – socks, ear plugs and an eye mask to block out noise, light and distractions. When it is time to sleep, it is bliss to sink into the flat bed with bedding from Saks Fifth Avenue. It felt like a private cocoon. The pyjamas come in two sizes – my tip is to go with the larger size. The United Polaris menu has been redesigned and I could not fault any of my meals – I loved the salmon. It is a must to have the madeto-order ice cream sundae, complete with your choice of toppings.

CONCIERGE TIPS

Pre-order meals and save room for dessert as that sundae is sensational! While there is free access to United Wi-Fi for MileagePlus Premier members and customers travelling in United Airlines Polaris or Premium Plus cabins, I chose to upgrade so I could work during the flight. It was efficient and I could do everything I required.

CHRISTINE BOTTRELL Ashmore, Harris & James Travel Associates, VIC

FRENCH POLYNESIA by SILVERSEA

PARADISE,

À LA CARTE

Photo by Steve McCurry

Silversea invites you to savour a new experience of paradise with a collection of 17 extraordinary itineraries that reveal French Polynesia in all its vibrant colour and character. Choose from 7-day voyages to discover the “Cradle of Polynesian Culture”, Raiatea, and 14-day voyages that allow you to linger longer in the Society, Marquesas and Tuamotu islands. A wealth of possibilities to explore the hidden treasures of French Polynesia and create your very own version of paradise.

Speak to a Travel Associates Advisor to learn more about Silversea’s all-inclusive, ultra-luxury voyages.

Keep Calm and Carry On

Inside a luxury Travel Advisors’ carry-on bag

Packing your carry-on bag is as important as packing your check-in baggage, perhaps even more so! Take a peek inside our Travel Associates’ luxury Advisors’ carry-on bag, for the items they never fly without.

1/ NOISE CANCELLING

HEADPHONE & AIRLINE JACK

A pair of AirPods Max work wonders with their noise cancelling ability, and when paired with the Air Fly Pro lets you listen to any in-flight entertainment.

Recommended by JENNI DAVIS

DAVIS & JAMES TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

5 /

2/ EARPLUGS

Packing your own earplugs is a new essential, especially with the Loop Earplugs - Quiet 2. The customised fit makes for comfortable sleep and amazing noise reduction.

Recommended by KAREN MAJSAY

LOW & JAMES TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

3/ EYE MASK

The only way I get any rest when flying is with an eye mask, and there’s none better to increase relaxation than the LULA Self Warming Eye Mask.

Recommended by MELISSA MADIGAN

JONES & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

4/ PORTABLE BATTERY PACK

2 /

Don’t be caught out with a dying device and nowhere to charge it! I always take a good quality, rechargeable battery pack like the Belkin BoostCharge Wireless Power Bank to charge multiple devices at once.

Recommended by JO KENNEDY

KENNEDY & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

5/ HOTEL SLIPPERS

Yes, the complimentary pairs you receive in your hotel room. These are the perfect, lightweight slipper making for an ultra-comfortable longhaul flight and can simply be disposed of when your travels end.

Recommended by

RENEE HOPPING

HOUSTON & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

6 / 1/

6/ THE BEST CARRY-ON BAG

The search for the perfect carry-on bag is over. Backpacks, totes, wheelies … pack them all away. The July Carry All Weekender Plus is a large carry-all bag that opens flat for perfect packing – no digging about to find that lip balm or pen.

/

7/ COMPRESSION SOCKS

The only way to avoid uncomfy swollen feet is with a pair of compression socks, and the experts at Therawear ensure they are as glamourous as can possibly be.

8/

Recommended by LAUREN EGAS O'SULLIVAN & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

ULTRA MOISTURISING LIP BALM

One thing about flying that is unavoidable is the dry air! I always pack a high-moisturising lip balm like the Clarins Extra-Firming Lip Contour Balm that comes in a convenient, leak-proof pot for travelling.

Recommended by RENEE HOPPING

HOUSTON & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

9/ HYDRALYTE

I always take an electrolyte when I wake up from a long flight to help with the dehydration onboard and the lack of sleep.

Recommended by ISABELLE TREMBLAY EARL & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

10/ SLIP SILK ESSENTIALS

To help your skin and hair when travelling, Slip’s Contour Sleep Mask and Skinny Scrunchies are a must. The mask sits so gently on your eyes and has amazing breathability, whilst the scrunchies are perfect for knot-free hair.

Recommended by TARA ROBERTS HOUSTON & TURNER TRAVEL ASSOCIATES

11/ HYDRATING FACE MASK

The only way to arrive fresh after your flight is with a face mask, with Go-To's Transformazing Sheet Mask being your skin's ultimate in-flight-friend.

Recommended by VANESSA TOKATLY TRAVEL ASSOCIATES BURLEIGH HEADS

12/ KINDLE, FACE SPRAY & VICKS

I always carry my Kindle for convenient reading, a travel-sized Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spay for my skin and a Vicks Inhaler –surprisingly a great invigorating wake-up and helps with sinus issues from cabin pressure.

Recommended by TEANN EDWARDS TRAVEL ASSOCIATES HOBART

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ZEALAND

Discover the majesty of Africa's vast continent while travelling by business class private jet. Join your Tour Manager, Tour Doctor and local guides on this immersive, all-inclusive journey.

AFRICAN ADVENTURES BY PRIVATE JET & ROVOS RAIL

Cairo - Luxor - Maasai Mara - Volcanoes National Park - Victoria Falls - Rovos Rail - Cape Town

Keep watch for the 'Big Five' during your extensive exploration of Kenya's Maasai Mara

Come face to face with mountain gorillas at Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park Board Rovos Rail's renowned Pride of Africa for a three-night private charter

16 days, Cairo to Cape Town, departing 2 September 2025

For more information or to book, contact your Travel Associates Advisor

Terms and conditions apply.