Kathy Hobbs
Explorers Club Travel Adventure
Explorers Club and The Travel Jewel presents Australia and New Zealand
Sep 14, 2024 to Sep 30, 2024
Australia and New Zealand 16 Day Venture; Sydney ~ Cairns ~ Melbourne ~ Queenstown ~ Auckland
Australia and New Zealand Takeover
About Australia specializes in vacations to Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific. We’re proudly ARC Accredited. ARC Agencies are the most select group of dedicated professionals in the U.S. travel industry & are recognized as having met stringent financial, personnel, and security requirements. We are partnered with Tourism Industry Leaders and can help you make the best selections for your vacation. Our Travel Experts have helped people travel for the best part of 20 years and look forward to helping you plan your holiday!
Sydney is Australia’s oldest city and the economic powerhouse of the nation and the country’s capital in everything but name. Enjoy the sights of Sydney, a world class city blessed with sun-drenched natural attractions, dizzy skyscrapers, delicious and daring restaurants, superb shopping and friendly folk. You can choose to experience the beauty of the harbor, the Opera House and marvel at the expansive Sydney Harbour Bridge. Take advantage of the many tour options or just relax and go at your own pace as you enjoy the excellent restaurants and entertainment that only Sydney can offer.
The colorful, sophisticated capital of the tropical north, Cairns city is alive with life and charm. Here, warm northern hospitality and enthusiasm are the order of the day. There are so many unique attractions and activities to see when you visit …cruise to the reef or islands, take a safari to the outback, trek into the rainforest or see it from the rainforest cableway above its green canopy on your way to or from Kuranda. Listed by the World Heritage Society and acclaimed as amongst the world’s most wonderful assets are the Great Barrier Reef and the Wet Tropics Rainforests. These year-round natural attractions are truly memorable and inspiring.
Melbourne is set around the shores of Port Phillip Bay. The city itself, laid out in a large rectangle and boasting a lively and cosmopolitan pulse, sits on the northern banks of the Yarra River, about five kilometers from the bay. From cutting-edge architecture and blockbuster musicals to art exhibitions and popular festivals, Melbourne is a city where cultural pursuits are woven into the fabric of everyday life. Regional Victoria also boasts a flourishing arts scene, with impressive galleries, museums, and heritage buildings.
![Autumn Walk Around Queenstown, New Zealand | The Adventure Capital of the World [Binaural 4K] - YouTube](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/to9V1hbfPPI/maxresdefault.jpg)
You will venture to Queenstown, which is known as the Adventure Capital of the World. A reputation earned through the actions of a number of locally residing thrill seekers who have developed several unbelievable, adrenaline stirring, sanity-reducing adventures in a wildly exciting environment. Over the years, Queenstown has quietly expanded into all sorts of attractions, including new wineries, art galleries, and challenging golf courses.
Arrive in Auckland and enjoy the city’s blend of landscape, Polynesian culture, glistening harbors and modern city environment. This creates an unbelievable lifestyle ranked amongst the best in the world. Not only is Auckland close to the beaches but it is also close to over twelve different Islands. There are 48 volcanic cones and more than 50 islands in the Auckland region. It is the largest city in New Zealand claiming one third of the entire population of the country.
Highlights & Inclusions
- Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights), Cairns (3), Melbourne (3), Queenstown (3), Auckland (2)
- USA Domestic Flights - New York to Los Angeles, Houston to New York
- International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Melbourne to Queenstown, Auckland to Houston
- Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Cairns, Cairns to Melbourne
- New Zealand Domestic Flights - Queenstown to Rotorua via Wellington
- Private Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return), Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return), Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return), Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return), Auckland Airport to Accommodation (Return)
- Day Tours - Sydney: Half Day City Tour, Sydney Harbor Cruise with 3-Course Dinner & Window Seat; Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise; Melbourne: Phillip Island Small Group with Guided Ranger; Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Cruise; Auckland: City Revealed Tour
- All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
- Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
What's not included:
- All other Day Tours listed are Optional (Not Included)
- Visa Issuance required for entry into Australia (Not Included )
- Visa Issuance for entry into New Zealand (Not Included)
- Travel Insurance (HIGHLY RECOMMENDED)
- Gratuity/Tips for Driver and Tour Guides
Itinerary:
14th Sep 2024 (Day 1) - Domestic Flight, New York to Los Angeles - Travel by domestic air to your destination.14th Sep (Day 1) - International Flight, Los Angeles to Sydney (Please confirm with the airlines at Check-in that they have all your Frequent Flyer information on record.)Travel to Australia on your vacation. After departing from Los Angeles you will be provided with an evening meal. You will be given Breakfast before landing in Sydney, Australia. (You lose one day crossing the International Date Line but don’t worry you catch it up again on your return flight to the USA)
16th Sep (Day 2) - Arrival Airport Transfer with Half Day City TourSee Sydney’s top attractions such as The Rocks and the famous Opera House before exploring its glamorous beaches and vibrant local spots!
Upon arrival into Sydney Airport you will be met by your personal chauffeur who will assist you to the vehicle and take you on an unforgettable tour of Sydney. Start at the world famous Bondi Beach, and continuing on towards The Gap at Watsons Bay. Returning into the city, passing through Vaucluse, Rose Bay, Double Bay, Paddington, Rushcutters Bay, Kings Cross and the Botanical Gardens in route to Lady Macquarie’s Chair to take in the most spectacular view of the harbor, Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge. t will now be time to head to your hotel – check-in and enjoy the remainder of your stay in Sydney
17th Sep (Day 3) - Free Day to Explore Sydney (Optional Day Tours Available w/ fee)Explore the Darling Harbour area at your leisure, which is a modern collection of Shopping Malls, Parkland, Restaurants and Harbour Front activities. Walk to Circular Quay and catch a ferry to our wonderful harbour-side Taronga Park Zoo, or take the 30 minute ferry ride to Manly Beach, Sydney’s premier beach resort. If you prefer to stay closer to downtown Sydney, Bondi Beach is approximately a 10 minute train ride and is one of Australia’s most famous and iconic beaches. Save some time to take a beach walk from Bondi Beach to Bronte Beach, it’s known to be a true highlight. If visiting on a weekend then go to the Rocks Market and shop for local Arts, Crafts & unique Australian Souvenirs
18th Sep (Day 4) - Evening Event, Sydney Harbor Cruise with 3-Course Dinner & Window Seat (3 Hrs)
After making your own way to Circular Quay or King Street Wharf, step on board your spacious, fully equipped cruise boat and set off on the waters of Sydney Harbor. Take in views of Sydney as you dine on a 4-course meal including a selection of fresh seafood, Keep your camera handy for photo opportunities of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbor Bridge along the backdrop of the skyline. Travel up to Shark Island and Fort Denison, and view secluded bays, marinas, and impressive waterfront homes. Return to Circular Quay or King Street Wharf to end your cruise, with easy access to nearby destinations in central Sydney.
19th Sep (Day 5) - Private Transfer, Sydney Accommodation to Airport -Domestic Flight, Sydney to the Great Barrier Reef Cairns -Private Transfer, Cairns Airport to vacation Accommodation in CairnsDepartures occur approximately 30 minutes after aircraft arrival-time for domestic flights. Luggage Restrictions: 1 checked bag and 1 hand luggage is free of charge per person in the shuttle. Additional luggage is 10$ each.20th Sep (Day 6) - Day Tour, Great Barrier Reef Cruise Daily, departs 9am, returns at 5pm (approx)
This Great Barrier Reef experience is perfect for swimmers with all levels of confidence! options to see the amazing under water wonderland that is the Great Barrier Reef!
Take the day and explore what could be considered the capital of the Great Barrier Reef, Cairns!
A major outlet to the Great Barrier Reef and the Daintree Rainforest amongst its many attractions, the tropical paradise of Cairns is sure to enchant you. Have a visit to the Esplanade where you can experience all walks of life and make memories. With a nightlife that caters to singles and families alike you’re visit will be filled with so many things to do, so take a deep breath and have fun!
22nd Sep (Day 8) - Private Transfer, Cairns Accommodation to Airport- Australian Domestic Flight, Cairns to Melbourne -Private Transfer, Melbourne Airport to Accommodation
23rd Sep (Day 9) - Day Tour, Phillip Island Small Group with Guided Ranger
Phillip Island is home to an astounding array of wildlife, including Australia’s largest fur seal colony, little penguins and cuddly koalas. Get up close with the remarkable penguins and wildlife of Phillip Island. Visit to Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park with close encounters with an array of Australian native animals like kangaroos, wombats and echidnas.
Finally, your Phillip Island Day Tour is not complete without its black-tie gala event: the Penguin Parade!
24th Sep (Day 10) - Free Day to Explore Melbourne (Optional Day Tours Available w/fee)Explore Melbourne City’s vast shopping centers, markets and boutiques, maybe do some souvenir shopping.Melbourne is a Multicultural City boasting many boutique cafes, wineries and extensive shopping. You’ll also find it very easy to get around on the trains and trams, especially within the inners of Melbourne.
25th Sep (Day 11) - Private Transfer, Melbourne Accommodation to Melbourne, Airport -International Flight, Melbourne to Queenstown , New Zealand-Private Transfer, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation26th Sep (Day 12) - Day Tour, Doubtful Sound - Full Day
The only way you can to get to Doubtful Sound is to cruise across the picturesque Lake Manapouri, followed by a bus trip over Wilmot Pass – New Zealand’s most expensive (and majestic) road.
Board the Patea Explorer for a 3-hour cruise on Doubtful Sound –Following the cruise, return to your Queenstown hotel by luxury coach.27th Sep (Day 13) - Free Day to Explore Queenstown Spend a day to relax or explore dynamic Queenstown. (Optional Day Tours Available for a fee)
You could try skiing, snowboarding, bungy jumping, paragliding, jetboating, sky diving and more! Or, if you want something a little more relaxed, you can nature experiences, tours and beauty spas.
- 28th Sep (Day 14) - Private Transfer, Queenstown Airport to Accommodation -New Zealand Domestic Flight from, Queenstown to Auckland (North Island)-Private Transfer, Auckland Airport to Accommodation in Auckland, New Zealand.
Please note: Standard airline luggage restrictions apply. If you are travelling with more luggage than is typically allowed by the airlines, please notify us right away so that we can adjust the type of vehicle to accommodate you.
29th Sep (Day 15) - Free Day to Explore Auckland Visit one of Auckland’s many attractions. (Optional Day Tours Available w/fee)
Fly a kite or throw a Frisbee in the beautifully landscaped Auckland Domain, the city’s oldest park. Have a laugh at The Classic Comedy and Bar in Queen Street, New Zealand’s home of live comedy. Take the bus over to Eden Park, New Zealand’s largest stadium. In the evening you can join the dancing on K’Road and party on till the wee hours at one of the many nightclubs. Or maybe you would rather visit the trendy suburb of Ponsonby and enjoy delicious cuisine, superb lattes or cocktails if more to your taste. And if it is cafes, bars and restaurants you’re after, the Viaduct Harbour has a great selection.
30th Sep (Day 16) - Private Transfer, Auckland Accommodation to Airport-International Flight, Auckland to Houston, TX -Domestic Flight, Houston to New York
Please note: Standard airline luggage restrictions apply. If you are travelling with more luggage than is typically allowed by the airlines, please notify us right away so that we can adjust the type of vehicle to accommodate you.
Terms and Conditions:
In order to reserve services, a non-refundable deposit of $300.00 per person is needed. No space is currently being held. Price and availability subject to change.
2. ALTERNATE PAYMENT METHODS.
For alternate payment methods please contact me or Tina Bacon at kathytravelguru@gmail.com OR TEXT TO 973-418-0491; Thetraveljewel@gmail.com or 240-682-0988
3. ADDITIONAL DEPOSIT.
At times, additional deposits may be required for your arrangements and at times this information may be advised after initial quote or confirmation. If applicable,
we will advise you as soon as we are made aware of this by the supplier.
4. FINAL PAYMENT
Final payment is due no later than 60 days prior to departure =July 12, 2024. Electronic travel documents are sent out approximately 30 days prior to departure.
The above are our normal final payment terms; however certain arrangements may require the balance of payment earlier.
Written Notice of Cancellation Received Cancellation Charges
60 days or more prior to departure $200 per person
59 – 45 days prior to departure 25% of trip cost
44 – 30 days prior to departure 50% of trip cost
29 – 15 days prior to departure 75% of trip cost
14 days – Day of Departure / During Tour 100% of trip cost
Going to Australia
Travelers are reminded that it is your responsibility to ensure you meet the requirements of the airline you are traveling with and any countries you transit through.
Here’s what you need to visit Australia:
-
Valid visa to enter Australia
- Travel Agents can no longer process this on your behalf. USA Passport holders without criminal history can apply on their smartphones. Download the Australia ETA app: Google Play | Apple App Store
- Click here to find the right Visa for you.
Stay up to date on Australia Travel Requirements, click here. To view a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ), click here.
Applying for your Visa – Tips for filling out your Australia ETA (Visa) application:
-
ETA are instantly approved unless any application errors or eligibility issue.
-
Most common eligibility issues seen involve criminal convictions.
Please see our tips for USA passport holders with criminal history (https://www.aboutaustralia.com/travel-tips/travel-visa-australia/)
-
Avoid the following common errors that will hold up your application.
- Name Mis-spelling – Double check your work!
- Entering dates in the USA format instead of DAY – MONTH- YEAR
- Mixing up the SURNAME and FIRST NAME Fields
-
Most common eligibility issues seen involve criminal convictions.
-
ETAs can ONLY be processed through the official Australian ETA App on your smart phone.
- Do not search for Australian ETA on your computer.
- Using the WRONG app – 3rd Party Apps can NOT process ETAs. They may be able to get Visas but it is not the quick ETA Visa. This will slow down your processing time.
- Click here for Australia ETA App on Google Play Store
-
Click here for Australia ETA App on Apple App Store
- If you are unable to complete the ETA application you can apply for a standard Tourist Visa – subclass 600 – via a web form. Processing time is currently about 3 weeks.
-
Questions? Call the Global Service Center BEFORE submitting your application to ensure quick processing times.
- Phone Number +61 2 6196 0196
Here’s what you need to travel to New Zealand
-
Valid passport.
- Your passport must be valid for 3 months beyond your return date back to the U.S. in order to travel to New Zealand.
- Recommended travel insurance with Covid coverage.
-
Valid visa to enter New Zealand.
- Travel Agents are unable process this on your behalf. USA Passport holders without criminal history can apply on their smartphones. Download the New Zealand ETA app or fill out the form online.
All travelers over the age of 18 years booked to travel on flights operated by Fiji Airways and Fiji Link must produce valid evidence of full vaccination against COVID-19. Read more details about Fiji Airways vaccination requirements here.
Travel to New Zealand will require a Visa or NZeTA (about $30USD). We will send info to help you apply. Cost of Australia Visa Processing to enter Australia is NOT included in this quote
Available Packages
Australia and New Zealand Package w/Airfare
Unavailable as of
November 30, 2023
$7,635.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person
- Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights), Cairns (3), Melbourne (3), Queenstown (3), Auckland (2)
- USA Domestic Flights - New York to Los Angeles, Houston to New York
- International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Melbourne to Queenstown, Auckland to Houston
- Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Cairns, Cairns to Melbourne
- New Zealand Domestic Flights - Queenstown to Rotorua via Wellington
- Private Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return), Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return), Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return), Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return), Auckland Airport to Accommodation (Return)
- Day Tours - Sydney: Half Day City Tour, Sydney Harbor Cruise with 3-Course Dinner & Window Seat; Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise; Melbourne: Phillip Island Small Group with Guided Ranger; Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Cruise; Auckland: City Revealed Tour
- All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
- Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Australia and New Zealand Package w/Airfare (Single Supplement)
Unavailable as of
November 30, 2023
$9,300.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person
- Accommodation - Sydney (3 Nights), Cairns (3), Melbourne (3), Queenstown (3), Auckland (2)
- USA Domestic Flights - New York to Los Angeles, Houston to New York
- International Flights - Los Angeles to Sydney, Melbourne to Queenstown, Auckland to Houston
- Australian Domestic Flights - Sydney to Cairns, Cairns to Melbourne
- New Zealand Domestic Flights - Queenstown to Rotorua via Wellington
- Private Transfers - Sydney Airport to Accommodation (Return), Cairns Airport to Accommodation (Return), Melbourne Airport to Accommodation (Return), Queenstown Airport to Accommodation (Return), Auckland Airport to Accommodation (Return)
- Day Tours - Sydney: Half Day City Tour, Sydney Harbor Cruise with 3-Course Dinner & Window Seat; Cairns: Great Barrier Reef Cruise; Melbourne: Phillip Island Small Group with Guided Ranger; Queenstown: Doubtful Sound Cruise; Auckland: City Revealed Tour
- All Taxes and Fuel Levies (Except where noted)
- Itinerary is flexible and can be tailored to suit your needs.
Extra Options
Optional Tours (Explore Sydney) Free Day
Unavailable as of
September 1, 2024
$0.00
The Blue Mountains Deluxe Day is a real journey into the heart of a unique World Heritage Region. From temperate rainforests to towering sandstone escarpments, you’ll see and experience
This tour includes: first stop of the day is at Calmsley Hill Farm, a working farm home to KangarooS, Emus, Wombats and Koalas. Enjoy morning tea and time to wander at leisure. Visit one of a range of stunning outlooks of Jamison Valley, overlooking beautiful vistas. Arrive at Eaglehawk Lookout, a remote lookout point away from the crowds for views of the famous Three Sisters. Here your guide will discuss the legends behind this famous rock formation and time available for you to take some great photos. The village of Blackheath to your lunch venue, the Hydro Majestic. enjoy a 2-course lunch with tea or coffee. All diets are catered for (excluding Kosher Meals). Please note that beverages can be purchased at your own expense from the Bar. The view from Govetts Leap is one of the most famous lookouts in Australia. The magnificent waterfall drops a whopping 180m to the base of the cliff, a sweeping views down the valley to the Grose Wilderness.
A brief stop to enjoy a glass of sparkling wine or orange juice at the delightful Mt Tomah Botanic Gardens, enjoy the sweeping views across to Sydney before traveling down the Bells Line of Road to arrive back at your hotel approximately 4:30p
Sydney Harbour Bridgeclimb Summit (Option 2)
Reach new heights and climb the famous Harbour Bridge in Sydney!
When you reach the top you will have a sense of achievement you’ll remember forever – you’ve conquered an Australian icon recognized the world over!
Hunter Valley Scenic Wine Tasting Tour (Option 3)
Enjoy touring through the scenic regions to Hunter Valley, wine tasting at boutique wineries, a gourmet lunch experience, cheese, olive oil and chocolate tasting then sit back and snooze on the way home!
Optional Tours (Explore Cairns)Free Day
Unavailable as of
September 1, 2024
$0.00
Kuranda Rainforestation with Gold Cabin (Option 1)
Enjoy a half-day tour of Kuranda Rainforest. Travel on board the Kuranda Scenic Rail in Gold Class through tunnels and across bridges to the Kuranda Village. Return with an amazing journey over and through the World Heritage Rainforest on board the Skyrail.
Cape Tribulation & Daintree Wilderness Safari (Option 2)
Enjoy a day exploring the rainforest and amazing landscapes of the Cape Tribulation wilderness area with a visit to Mossman Gorge Center and Cape Tribulation.
Mossman Gorge Centre: Visit the Mossman Gorge Gateway Centre for morning tea before boarding your shuttle for the transfer into Mossman Gorge. Your driver/guide will take you for a guided walk, sharing their knowledge of this enchanting rainforest environment. Learn about the fascinating secrets of one of the world’s oldest tropical rainforests.
Daintree River Cruise: Reach an understanding of this wildlife environment for one hour, habitat of birds, tree snakes, unique plants and of course the estuarine crocodile.
Tropical Lunch: With special access at a private rainforest property, enjoy a short walk along a delightful rainforest creek before a delicious tropical lunch. Choice of quality steak, fish or vegetarian meal with fresh salads and fruit platter, followed by coffee or Daintree Tea.
Cape Tribulation: Walk on this world-renowned rainforest beach and admire the coastline and fringing coral reef from the Kulki Lookout.
Daintree Ice Cream Company: Enjoy an afternoon refreshment at the Daintree Ice Cream Company. Included is a delicious cup of exotic fruit ice cream, made from fruit grown on their on-site orchard. Gluten / Dairy free options are available.
Alexandra Lookout: After winding through the rainforest of the Alexandra Range, enjoy this spectacular lookout over the Daintree River estuary, Snapper Island and beyond to the Coral Sea.
Optional Tours (Explore Melbourne) Free Day
Unavailable as of
September 1, 2024
$0.00
Hidden Secrets, Lanes & Arcades (Option 1)
Discover the secrets of creative Melbourne with this dynamic half day, small group, guided walking tour!
Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs (Option 2)
Let your stress melt away with a relaxing day out at the Mornington Peninsula Hot Springs and bathing boxes! Join this day tour from Melbourne to the Mornington Peninsula, where you’ll enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs followed by a stop at Murrays Lookout. Savor the bay views before stopping at Mt Martha’s colorful bathing boxes for that Instagram-worthy shot.
Optional Tours (Explore Queenstown) Free Day
Unavailable as of
September 1, 2024
$0.00
Gondola Ride (Option 1)
Located an easy 5 minute walk from central Queenstown and exclusively accessed by scenic gondola, Skyline Gondola, Restaurant & Luge is a must-see attraction during your visit to Queenstown.
Shotover Jet(Option 2)
Get ready to experience the World’s most exciting Jet Boat ride! Acknowledged as the globe’s most famous Jet Boat operation! Being the only company permitted to operate in the breathtaking Shotover river canyons, you won’t get this experience anywhere else. There are many like Shotover Jet, but for sheer excitement, no one comes close.
Lake Cruise, Farm Tour and BBQ Dinner (Option 3)
Your journey starts with a cruise aboard the historic TSS Earnslaw across to Walter Peak High Country Farm. Once there, you can sit back on the lakeside terrace of the Colonel’s Homestead Restaurant and savor the delicious aromas as our chef has the best of local produce, sizzling away on the grill.
Optional Tours (Explore Auckland) Free Day
Unavailable as of
September 1, 2024
$0.00
Hobbiton & Waitomo Caves Tour (Option 1)
Visit two of New Zealand’s most famous attractions on this deluxe five-star coach tour. The Waitomo Glow-Worm Caves and the spectacular geothermal regions of Rotorua, rich with Maori culture and natural history, make this a truly memorable day.
Rotorua Geothermal & Waitomo Glow Worm Caves (Option 2)
Visit two iconic New Zealand attractions with this small group tour to Hobbiton Movie Set and Waitomo Glowworm Caves, complete with lunch.
Travel Protection
Unavailable as of
July 31, 2024
$498.00
Deposit: $498.00
BASE PLAN BENEFITS & BONUS COVERAGES
Benefits Coverage1
Trip Cancellation 100% of trip cost ($15,000 limit)
Trip Interruption 150% of trip cost ($22,500 limit)
Trip Delay7 $1,000 ($250/day)
Sporting Equipment Delay $200
Missed Connection $1,000
Baggage & Personal Effects $1,500
Baggage Delay $250
Emergency Medical & Dental Expenses $25,000 ($500 dental sublimit)
Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation $150,000
Accidental Death & Dismemberment $10,000
Travel Assistance & Concierge Services5
Included
BONUS COVERAGES
If plan is purchased at or before final trip payment.
• Pre-existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver Included
• Financial Default Coverage Included