Travel inspiration, tips, and insider advice

TripADeal AND a Travel Agent: Why It Doesn’t Have to Be Either/Or

Thu, 09 Apr 2026 05:40:49 GMT

You can (and should) book TripADeal through your local travel agent

TripADeal packages are incredibly popular. The pricing is competitive, the destinations are appealing, and the idea of having much of your trip bundled together is attractive. For all of their strengths, TripADeal packages are missing something - travel agent support.

If I book a TripADeal package… do I still need a travel agent?

The answer is YES! You don’t have to choose between booking a TripADeal package OR using a travel agent. You can (and indeed should!) choose both!

In fact, you will get the best outcome by using both.

I provide...

Travel Advice & Guidance

to help you assess whether the package is the right fit

Research & Planning

to ensure you get the best out of the destination/s

Booking Services

to coordinate flights, accommodation and additional arrangements

What TripADeal does well

TripADeal packages can be a great starting point, particularly for first-time travellers, or those new to group travel.

They’re designed to:

Take care of the big-picture planning
Offer bundled pricing across flights, accommodation and touring
Provide certainty and clarity via a structured itinerary

For travellers who want a “done for you” framework, they can absolutely deliver value.

Where things can be less straightforward

TripADeal base packages look simple at first glance, but often involve a number of decisions — and costs — that aren’t always obvious upfront.

Things like:

Optional tours and activities.
Which meals are included.
Days/Part Days at leisure (Which sound appealing… until you realise you need to plan them yourself in an unfamiliar destination).
Room, transport, or flight upgrades (which can significantly change the overall cost and/or experience of the trip)

None of these are inherently a problem — but they do mean the “headline price” isn’t representative of the total cost.

I offer a comprehensive TripADeal itinerary review service as part of my Travel Advice & Guidance service. Simply book a free initial consultation to get started.

TripADeal is not the whole plan

There's a lot that goes into travel, beyond booking the TripADeal package itself, and that's where TripADeal lets its customers down. TripADeal book the package for their customers...and nothing else.

TripADeal don't provide any support for:

Visa and entry requirements
Travel insurance
Domestic flight timings and connections

And offer limited flexibility for:

Airport transfers
Pre- or post-tour accommodation
Pre- or post-tour activities

They also don't give their customers any guidance on how to make the most of their time in each destination.

These are often the pieces that can feel overwhelming, especially if you’re travelling somewhere unfamiliar.

The value of working with a travel agent on your TripADeal package

Working with a travel agent alongside your TripADeal booking can make a significant difference to your holiday experience. .

Rather than replacing the TripADeal package, the role of a travel agent is to complement the package and:

Help you understand what’s included — and what’s not
Set your expectations for what to expect on a TripADeal trip
Flag potential additional costs early
Provide clarity as to whether the package suits your travel style and preferences
Fill in the gaps (before and after your tour)
Ensure everything flows smoothly from start to finish

Consulting a travel agent early will help you get the most out of the TripADeal package you are considering.

Thinking about booking a TripADeal package?

Whether you're considering a TripADeal itinerary, or have already booked your TripADeal package, there are a few ways I can help:

Travel Advice & Guidance — to help you assess whether the package is the right fit

Research & Planning — to build out the rest of your trip around it

Booking Services — to coordinate flights, accommodation and additional arrangements

Sometimes a quick conversation upfront can save a lot of uncertainty later. It starts with a complimentary consultation.

All-Inclusive Stays vs Cruises: Which One is Right For You? (Including Australian Options)

Thu, 26 Mar 2026 02:39:18 GMT

You may be an all-aboard enthusiast who struggles to believe that a land-based stay could rival a cruise for experience or value but I'm noticing more and more clients are starting to ask whether an all-inclusive resort might offer a more relaxed, flexible and refined alternative.

Both options promise an easy, largely pre-planned holiday… but the experience can feel quite different.

My recent visit to Mt Mulligan Lodge has provided me with some perspective on the similarities and differences between an all-inclusive land lodge stay versus a floating resort in the form of a cruise.

So how do you decide whether an all-inclusive stay is right for you?

What is an all-inclusive stay?

All inclusive stay vs cruise: how they compare

Rooms with a View

Want to find an all-inclusive stay that's right for you? I offer a complimentary consultation that's designed to match you to the perfect experience.

Gourmet Dining

Forget buffet lines! At an all-inclusive lodge, your meals are carefully curated and plated by top-tier chefs, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Whether it’s a leisurely breakfast, a long lunch, or a gourmet dinner under the stars, each meal is an experience in itself—no upcharges, no hidden fees, and no need to book a specialty restaurant in advance.

Premium Inclusions—No Surprises

There’s no need to upgrade your drinks package, pay for Wi-Fi, or navigate a maze of add-ons that quickly inflate your total cost. At Mt Mulligan Lodge , high-quality beverages, including premium wines and spirits, are part of the package, as is seamless high-speed internet—so you can disconnect or stay connected as you please.

Fewer Guests, More Space

Most all-inclusive lodges cater to fewer than 50 guests at a time. This means personalised service, quiet surroundings, and a true sense of exclusivity. No crowded pools, no queues at the bar, no fighting for a lounge chair. Just pure relaxation in a natural setting.

Activities That Immerse You in Your Destination

Onshore cruise excursions often follow the well-worn tourist trail—quick stops at the most popular sights, large group tours, and experiences that, while enjoyable, can feel a little ‘one-size-fits-all.’

In contrast, at a luxury lodge, activities are carefully curated to immerse you in the unique history, culture and environment of the region. Whether it’s a guided expedition with an expert to appreciate the Indigenous heritage of the land, a hands-on experience with local produce, or a wilderness adventure designed specifically for the season, every activity is crafted to be meaningful, intimate, and truly special.

All-Inclusive Stays vs Cruises: At a Glance

At a glance, cruises and all-inclusive stays can seem quite similar. But the feel of the holiday is where the difference really comes through.

All-Inclusive Stay

Cruise

One destination, explored in depth

Settle in once; no packing/unpacking

Flexible pace; do as much or as little as you like

Space, privacy, and a more boutique feel

Immersive, location-based experiences

Food and wine often locally sourced and regionally inspired

Ideal for switching off and slowing down

Feels more like a retreat

Multiple destinations in one trip

Frequent packing/unpacking between ports

Structured schedules and set dining times

Shared spaces with larger numbers of guests

Snapshot-style visits to destinations

Dining designed to cater to a wide range of tastes

Ideal for variety and constant activity

Feels more like a journey

Have I Convinced You?

While cruising is still incredibly popular, all-inclusive stays — particularly in Australia — are becoming a go-to for travellers who want:

A slower pace. No schedules to follow unless you want them
Less decision fatigue. Everything is thoughtfully curated
A deeper connection to place ; not just passing through
A true sense of switching off ; without sacrificing quality or experience

If your version of a holiday involves arriving, exhaling, and knowing everything has already been taken care of, an all-inclusive stay can be a very good fit.

I regularly work with clients who are weighing up different styles of travel and help them land on the option that truly gives them their version of “me time.” Book a complimentary consult today to find an all-inclusive lodge that's right for you.

Think Booking Flights Is Just Clicking a Button?

Fri, 20 Jun 2025 07:21:08 GMT

Think again...

The dominance of the internet now means that you can book your own flights in real time, online, direct with the airline and cut the travel agent out of the process entirely. But believe me when I tell you, just because you can, doesn’t mean you should!

I get it, travel agents charge a fee for their services and you’re sitting there wondering Why should I pay an agent when Expedia and Kayak tell me it’s as easy as jumping online and clicking “book” .

I understand why you might be thinking that. Online travel marketplaces like Expedia and Kayak like to tell you that you can “book your holiday in minutes” through their portals. So when you come to me, and I charge you a fee for my service; what exactly are you paying for?

Well, let me start by saying this: my fee isn’t for clicking buttons - it’s for saving you time, reducing your stress, and ensuring your travel experience flows as smoothly as possible.

The fee you pay me covers the work required prior to booking . Take, for example, the client who was looking to fly business class from Brisbane to Rome, returning from Paris. I presented five different routing options (via Singapore, Doha, Perth, Hong Kong, and Dubai), complete with pricing, flight times, connection windows, airline pros and cons, and, as a bonus, included a link to a review of the business class cabin of each airline. All in an easy to read comparative one-page table.

Researching flight options like that is a lengthy process for the average traveller. For me? It’s simply part of the service. I provide you with simple, easy-to-understand flight options so you can make a confident and informed decision about the route, airline and price that is right for your needs.

But my job doesn’t stop once the flight is booked because I continue to manage the reservation on your behalf.

A family travelling from Cairns to Melbourne recently had their scheduled departure cancelled by the airline with an offer to rebook to a later departure. Rather than blindly accepting the later departure, I called the motorhome branch where they were collecting their vehicle to confirm that the new flight would still allow them to make pick-up in time. Once I’d confirmed this, I updated the client, reassured them, and then accepted the change on their behalf. Because I continue to manage the reservation after the booking, you have no stress, no disruption, no last-minute panic.

This is what you’re really investing in when you pay my booking fee: experience, foresight, and personalised service that saves you time, energy, and unnecessary hassle.

You could spend your time Googling flight paths; calculating layovers; totalling up the true cost of the flight once you add in checked luggage, seating and on-board meals; trawling through reviews of aircraft and cabin features … or you could spend it with your family, your friends, and doing the things that matter most to you.

So yes, there’s a fee for my service—but the value is in the time you don’t have to spend, the stress you don’t have to feel, and the mess you don’t have to fix.

If you’ve ever wished someone else could just “take care of it,” that’s what I’m here for...all you have to do is click here to start the conversation .

Travel + Participation in Sporting Events: Why It's A Winning Combination

Tue, 11 Mar 2025 04:06:37 GMT

Add some extra motivation to your fitness regime

Participation in trail running, cycling, triathlons and similar activities is outpacing that of traditional sports such as soccer and rugby. And while travelling to view traditional sporting competition like the Soccer World Cup or the Rugby 7s is on the bucket list for some, for others their next holiday will involve lacing up their running shoes, clipping into their bike pedals, or diving into open water to participate in sporting challenges.

Travelling for mass participation sporting events is a growing trend and it’s easy to see why. Events like the Ironman World Championship in Kona, the New York Marathon, and the Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc are bucket-list experiences that combine the thrill of competition with the excitement of exploring a new destination.

My partner Rudi recently travelled to Forrest in regional Victoria to have a crack at the Otway Odyssey 50Km Shorty mountain bike event.

Here’s what he shared about the reasons he chooses to combine travel with event participation:

The Sense of Community: One of the things I notice when I attend an event such as the Otway Odyssey is that I’m surrounded by like-minded people.

Before the race, you can pop into the local pub for a Beechworth Pale Ale (the best pale ale in Australia if you ask me) and strike up a conversation with your neighbour about what bike they brought along to the event, how have they felt their preparation has been, what excuses they have ready to go if things go poorly and who they are trying to beat.

After the event you get to swap stories, like “ did you see that dude who just rode in knicks and nothing else? ” and celebrate personal milestones including how many e-bikes you smoked on your acoustic!

This shared experience often creates lasting memories and friendships that extend far beyond race day.

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Exploring Beyond the Event: The Otway Odyssey is held in Forrest , a town of about 250 people. It’s a place, that, were it not for the Otway Odyssey, I would never think to visit. But now that I’ve been, I would recommend it to others for sure; it's got 70+km of trail...who knew???

It also gave me a chance to spend a couple of days in Melbourne prior to the event, and then explore more of regional Victoria, spending a week riding in Victoria’s High Country .

_________________________________________________________________________________________________________

A Purpose-Filled Adventure: I found it very satisfying to travel with a goal in mind. The months of preparation leading up to race day and the exhilaration (or relief!) of crossing the finish line meant that the trip was more than just a holiday, it was the culmination of dedication, perseverance, and personal achievement.

Popular Sporting Events That Draw Travellers If you're considering planning a trip around a sporting event, here are a few iconic options to inspire you:

Ironman Triathlon Series : The IRONMAN® and IRONMAN® 70.3® Triathlon Series is the world’s premier full-distance and half-distance triathlon series consisting of over 150 qualifying races in 50+ countries, regions and territories across the world.

New York City Marathon (USA) : One of the most famous marathons, taking runners through all five boroughs with electrifying crowd support.

Ultra-Trail du Mont-Blanc (France/Italy/Switzerland): A breathtaking 171 km race through the Alps, attracting elite and amateur trail runners alike.

MAAP Beechworth Granite Classic (Victoria): Three days of riding the best champagne gravel roads in Australia, in a laid-back, strictly podium-free affair.

Peaks Challenge (Victoria): Set across three of Victoria’s most famous climbs, you’ll tackle the ascents of Tawonga Gap, Mount Hotham and finally, ‘The Beast’ that is the back of Falls Creek.

Ready to plan your next adventure?

Whether you're aiming for a finish-line celebration or simply want to be part of something bigger, I can help you craft a travel experience that blends your sporting ambitions with unforgettable destinations. Get in touch and let's get started!

Plan your holiday to rocket to recovery

Wed, 15 Jan 2025 03:07:19 GMT

5 ways to ensure your holiday helps you truly recover from the demands of work

Stock footage provided by Freepik , downloaded from videvo.net

I became familiar with the concept of recovery when working with beginning teachers during the COVID era. Two key messages I shared with them were:

Allocate blocks of time to recovery - Andrew May's Recovery Rocket is one model to consider; and
Recovery is not just about being physically absent from work, you’ve also got to intentionally engage in activities that allow you to psychologically detach and recover from work .

Many people opt for vacations that provide physical rest, assuming that lounging on a beach or by the pool is the fastest route to recovery. Yet, the paradox of recovery is that, unless your work is physically demanding, mere physical relaxation is not effective at achieving recovery . This might be because, when physically relaxing, devices are always within easy reach, pulling you back into the world of work.

If your job has emotional and cognitive demands, consider putting extra thought into your holiday plans to ensure you achieve the mental separation from work you deserve.

Here’s how to intentionally plan your next holiday to provide you with cognitive and emotional detachment from work:

Skip the e-sim

Having constant connectivity is the quickest way to fall into old habits and engage cognitively and emotionally with work. Instead, rely on Wi-Fi when needed, and use global roaming as a backup if absolutely necessary. You might surprise yourself by how little you need it!

Go off-grid

Choose remote stays with limited reception or Wi-Fi. A number of speciality lodges have now been designed to naturally encourage disconnection and immersion in your surroundings.

Check out unplugged to book a cabin stay in the UK or Spain .

Leverage time zones

Pick a destination with a time difference that works in your favour. While you sleep, everyone back home is awake. Use Do Not Disturb mode to stay present during your day time hours.

Plan purposeful activities

Multi-day hikes or similar adventures with limited charging opportunities force you to prioritise your device usage for emergencies only. And no, you don’t need a power bank!

Australia has many multi-day hikes with limited opportunities to recharge your electronic devices.

Engage in physical activity

Unless your job is physically demanding, getting active during your off-season is actually beneficial for your recovery. Physical activity naturally distracts your cognitive and emotional systems; you are less likely to ruminate about work issues while you’re moving.

The right holiday can be more than just a break—it can be a true reset.

How and where do you plan to recover for your next holiday?

Alaskan Allure

Thu, 12 Dec 2024 05:51:44 GMT

Why Alaska is Trending for Travellers Seeking Me-Time

Over the past few months, I’ve noticed a growing number of clients who are looking to travel to Alaska. It's made me curious to identify what me-time clients are seeking there. And the more I’ve worked on itineraries, the more it’s become clear— Alaska is a fabulous destination for me-time . Let me explain how you can get your me-time in Alaska:

Cruising

A cruise taking in the dramatic coastlines and glacier-studded waters is an ideal way to cover a lot of ground in Alaska and access towns and sights that might otherwise be difficult to get to. Because the coastline is dotted with small villages and bustling towns, most days involve a port stop, providing you with an opportunity to stretch your legs, meet the locals and engage in on-land activities. More than 50 ships sail these waters, providing you with a choice of luxury to budget, small to large ship, ports of call and cruise length . If cruising is your version of me-time, Alaska should be on your bucket-list.

You can search for Alaskan cruises here - visit this link

Rail Journeys

Although not in Alaska, many travellers combine an Alaskan holiday with a side trip to Canada so that they can ride on the iconic Rocky Mountaineer. This train sets the benchmark for high-end scenic rail travel with glass-domed carriages and impeccable service whilst offering unparalleled views of the snow-capped mountains and rugged canyons of the Canadian Rockies. If you love rail travel, I know you will enjoy adding this onto your Alaskan holiday.

You can see an example of a Rocky Mountaineer trip here - visit this link

Connecting with Nature

The Alaskan landscape is still considered wild and untouched. If you seek your me-time outdoors to be immersed in natural spaces, Alaska will provide ample opportunity for you to hike, bike, or simply sit and contemplate the awe inspiring views. For us Aussies, especially those from tropical Far North Queensland, Alaska is like stepping into another world. The icy fjords, massive glaciers, and towering mountains are something we simply don’t have at home. It’s the kind of scenery that leaves you speechless—perfect for slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and finding your own version of me-time.

Check out some classic Alaskan wilderness adventures available to book here - visit this link

Wildlife Encounters

Observing and engaging with animals somehow has a therapeutic effect on many of us and is a me-time activity for some. Alaska delivers unique, up-close wildlife encounters in spades. Bears fishing for salmon, soaring bald eagles, and even the occasional moose —Alaska’s wildlife is not only abundant but also accessible. Cruises and guided tours make it easy to see these amazing creatures up close (but not too close!).

BrushBack Tours will fly you into Bear Mountain Lodge for a fully day of bear viewing in most beautiful and remote places in the world, Lake Clark National Park. Find out more about their tour here - visit this link

Road Trips

Despite the fact that many of us commute in our cars for work, we often find a holiday road-trip to be a good way to experience me-time. There's something about the freedom and flexibility that comes with being able to choose your route and move at your own pace behind the wheel . Alaska is an ideal jump-off point for a road trip through the USA or Canada, both of which provide excellent road infrastructure, bountiful hire car operators, and safe and familiar road rules. You will be able to get the perfect mix of relaxation and exploration.

Get a quote for your car rental here - visit this link

As a travel expert, I can help you navigate the sea of options for ways to get your me-time in Alaska and plan a trip that fits your style and preferences.

If Alaska’s calling your name, let’s make it happen . Book a consultation , and together we’ll plan an Alaskan adventure that’s uniquely you and full of me-time moments you’ll never forget.

TripADeal Travel Packages: What You Need to Know Before You Book

Mon, 11 Nov 2024 05:35:46 GMT

Speak to a travel expert before you hit that "book now" button

Have you ever found yourself scrolling through TripADeal and feeling tempted by one of their all-in-one travel packages?

TripADeal offers some truly appealing travel deals, often including flights, accommodation, and sometimes even tours, all rolled into one tidy package.

But if you’re on the fence or just want some guidance before you click “Book Now,” I’m here to help .

Can a Travel Agent Book TripADeal Packages?

One of the top questions I get asked is whether I can book TripADeal packages on behalf of clients. The answer? Not quite.

TripADeal operates on a direct-to-consumer model, meaning they only accept bookings made directly through their website, so I can’t make the booking for you. However, I can help you navigate the options before you commit .

My Travel Advice and Guidance Service Can Help

Booking with TripADeal might be straightforward, but making sure you’re choosing the right package and getting the best out of your trip isn’t always as clear-cut. This is where my Travel Advice and Guidance service comes in.

Let’s say you’re looking at a TripADeal “two-for-one” package to Japan. I can help you weigh the options, asking questions like:

Is the two-for-one deal actually the best value?

Sometimes it is, but sometimes you might want to look at standalone packages or compare other options.

What about your travel dates?

TripADeal offers a range of dates, but we can narrow down which work best for you and avoid peak times or other travel conflicts.

Preferred airlines or stopovers?

Many of us have our favourite airlines or might want to break up a long-haul trip with a stopover. We can discuss options that make sense for your comfort and convenience.

What’s nearby if you arrive early or stay longer?

The package might end in one city, but you could consider adding an extra night or two nearby. We’ll look at possibilities for extending your trip to add value and adventure!

Book a Consultation to get the most out of your TripADeal experience

I understand the appeal of TripADeal’s all-in-one approach—it’s simple, affordable, and ideal for travellers who want an "out of the box" travel solution. My goal is to help you make the experience even better with a little guidance and planning support upfront.

So, if you’re eyeing a TripADeal package but want to make sure you’re getting the best out of it, book a consultation with me today! I’ll help you navigate the options, consider add-ons or adjustments, and make sure your upcoming adventure is set up to be exactly what you’re dreaming of.