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News Corp Australia launches new travel brand

News Corp Australia is launching its new travel brand, Travel + Luxury.

The new platform, led by The Australian, will be available as a quarterly gloss magazine and content vertical on theaustralian.com.au. The large format magazine will be inserted in The Australian with the first edition being published on Friday, March 26.

“The Australian is delighted to launch Travel + Luxury, our latest high-quality magazine that will inspire readers who love travelling and dream of their next trip,” says The Australian editor-in-chief Christopher Dore.

“Under Kerrie McCallum's editorial guidance and category expertise, our renowned contributors and travel content will create the most premium travel product in the country.”

As part of the launch, Travel & Indulgence in The Weekend Australian will rebrand to Travel + Luxury Weekend. Travel sections in Delicious, Vogue Australia and Vogue Living will also carry the Travel + Luxury branding.

“I’m thrilled to be expanding our travel portfolio with the launch of Travel + Luxury,” says editorial director of premium food and travel Kerrie McCallum.

“The Australian and the News Prestige Network brands enable us to engage with a premium travel audience, helping them uncover unique experiences, make memories and celebrate life’s special moments.

“While the travel industry has faced unprecedented challenges in the past year, our desire to explore has only intensified. Travel for Australians is intrinsic to our culture and we’re gripped by wanderlust.”

The roll out of Travel + Luxury, which has Tourism Australia as its launch partner, is being supported by a marketing campaign which will run across print, radio, DOOH, digital and social channels, along with a sampler magazine that will be inserted in Delicious, Vogue Australia and Vogue Living in early March.

“Tourism Australia is delighted to be the launch partner of Travel + Luxury. While many destinations around the world offer luxury holidays, Australia’s offering is rare and compelling, and is very much reflective of our world-class natural beauty, our exceptional food and wine offering, and our people,” says Tourism Australia managing director Phillipa Harrison.

“Our natural environment and propensity for outdoor living has seen the development of a unique collection of ‘barefoot’ and adventure luxury experiences that appeal to those who travel to seek knowledge as well as a genuine connection with people and place.”

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The Australian’s Travel + Luxury Weekend launches with new design

The Australia’s Travel + Luxury brand will launch a new weekend edition this Saturday, featuring a new-look design.

The announcement:

Travel + Luxury Weekend, a new standalone product under The Australian’s Travel + Luxury premium brand, will launch this Saturday in The Weekend Australian. Travel + Luxury Weekend will feature fresh content and a new-look design on high-quality paper with a trimmed and stapled finish to create a superior travel product for readers and advertisers. Travel + Luxury Weekend editor Penny Hunter said: “Our readers are discerning and focused on the premium end of travel. Moving from a lift-out to our new standalone format will present our top-class journalism in a refreshed and modern style designed to inspire our readers to travel. “Long-form storytelling has always been our strength, and that will continue with a fresh array of fonts and colour palettes and generous use of beautiful photography on high-quality paper. “These will be interspersed with authoritative flight and hotel reviews, lists, deals, products and news, plus personality-driven stories. The new look will boost Travel + Luxury Weekend’s appeal as a publication; one that has a shelf life well beyond the weekend.” Travel + Luxury Weekend’s new format, along with its sister publication, the glossy bi-monthly Travel + Luxury magazine, delivers world-class travel content to create the number one source of luxury travel information and inspiration in this country. Editorial director of premium food, health and travel, Kerrie McCallum, said the company’s News Travel Network had the largest audience of travel intenders in the country. “Building out travel content for this highly engaged prestige audience with a standalone, refreshed version of Travel + Luxury in The Weekend Australian is the logical next step in segmenting our travel audience and targeting true travel intenders, in companion with the glossy bi-monthly magazine. “These products are the pinnacle for premium and luxury travel in Australia, and it demonstrates how seriously we take the category and the potential of this valuable audience.” Each issue of the new Travel + Luxury Weekend will include increased editorial content and new features. Hotel and flight reviews, in-depth destination stories, On the Radar discoveries and Perfect 10 lists remain. Fab Four has expanded to Take Five, and Destination Next will transport readers to the latest hip hotel or locale. In Residence returns, with more divine holiday homes, and the Deals and News snippets have expanded. New content includes a Globetrotter column quizzing frequent flyers about where they’ve been, where they’re going and what they take with them. Product pages will feature travel-related goods and Just Add… will suggest pre-trip reading, viewing, listening and gear to take along for the ride. The launch issue of Travel + Luxury Weekend has a theme of renewal throughout. From a historic train station that was gathering dust and is now a luxe hotel, to personal renewal at a wellness retreat on the Gold Coast, and NSW holiday homes that have been reborn from churches, slab huts and the like. The issue showcases the latest trends in the travel sphere and looks at how nature-based tourism is a source of healing and solace. Associate Editor Travel Susan Kurosawa writes about the eternal allure of African safaris. Travel + Luxury has a strong presence across all platforms – print, digital, video, mobile and social – and is enhanced by a popular weekly newsletter.

Source: News Corp

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The Australian launches new look Travel + Luxury Weekend

August 31, 2023

Travel + Luxury Weekend ,  a new standalone product under  The Australian’s Travel + Luxury  premium brand, will launch this Saturday in  The Weekend Australian .

Travel + Luxury Weekend  will feature fresh content and a new-look design on high-quality paper with a trimmed and stapled finish to create a superior travel product for readers and advertisers.

Travel + Luxury Weekend  Editor  Penny Hunter  said: “Our readers are discerning and focused on the premium end of travel. Moving from a lift-out to our new standalone format will present our top-class journalism in a refreshed and modern style designed to inspire our readers to travel.  

“Long-form storytelling has always been our strength, and that will continue with a fresh array of fonts and colour palettes and generous use of beautiful photography on high-quality paper. 

“These will be interspersed with authoritative flight and hotel reviews, lists, deals, products and news, plus personality-driven stories. The new look will boost  Travel + Luxury Weekend’s  appeal as a publication; one that has a shelf life well beyond the weekend.” 

Travel + Luxury Weekend’s  new format, along with its sister publication, the glossy bi-monthly  Travel + Luxury  magazine, delivers world-class travel content to create the number one source of luxury travel information and inspiration in this country. 

Editorial Director of Premium Food, Health and Travel,  Kerrie McCallum ,  said the company’s News Travel Network had the largest audience of travel intenders in the country.

“Building out travel content for this highly engaged prestige audience with a standalone, refreshed version of  Travel + Luxury  in  The Weekend Australian  is the logical next step in segmenting our travel audience and targeting true travel intenders, in companion with the glossy bi-monthly magazine. 

“These products are the pinnacle for premium and luxury travel in Australia, and it demonstrates how seriously we take the category and the potential of this valuable audience.”

Each issue of the new  Travel + Luxury Weekend  will include increased editorial content and new features. Hotel and flight reviews, in-depth destination stories, On the Radar discoveries and Perfect 10 lists remain. Fab Four has expanded to Take Five, and Destination Next will transport readers to the latest hip hotel or locale. In Residence returns, with more divine holiday homes, and the Deals and News snippets have expanded. 

New content includes a Globetrotter column quizzing frequent flyers about where they’ve been, where they’re going and what they take with them. Product pages will feature travel-related goods and Just Add… will suggest pre-trip reading, viewing, listening and gear to take along for the ride.  

The launch issue of  Travel + Luxury Weekend  has a theme of renewal throughout. From a historic train station that was gathering dust and is now a luxe hotel, to personal renewal at a wellness retreat on the Gold Coast, and NSW holiday homes that have been reborn from churches, slab huts and the like. The issue showcases the latest trends in the travel sphere and looks at how nature-based tourism is a source of healing and solace. Associate Editor Travel  Susan Kurosawa  writes about the eternal allure of African safaris. 

Travel + Luxury  has a strong presence across all platforms – print, digital, video, mobile and social – and is enhanced by a popular weekly newsletter.

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News Corp announces new travel brand Travel + Luxury

• Kerrie McCallum will lead the new product

News Corp Australia has announced the launch of Travel + Luxury  – a new travel brand led by  The Australian  and available as a quarterly gloss magazine and content vertical on  theaustralian.com.au .

The glossy large format magazine will be inserted in  The Australian  with the first edition being published on Friday, March 26.  

The Australian editor-in-chief Christopher Dore said: “ The Australian  is delighted to launch  Travel + Luxury , our latest high-quality magazine that will inspire readers who love travelling and dream of their next trip. Under Kerrie McCallum’ s editorial guidance and category expertise, our renowned contributors and travel content will create the most premium travel product in the country.”

As part of the launch,  Travel & Indulgence  in  The Weekend Australian  will rebrand to  Travel + Luxury Weekend . Travel sections in  delicious .,  Vogue  Australia and  Vogue Living  will also carry the  Travel + Luxury  branding to create the ultimate network for prestige travel.

Designed for a curious and affluent audience in search of unique experiences, travel news, inspiration, products and adventure,  Travel + Luxury  will feature a line-up of leading travel writers, photographers and luxury experts, along with international content from sister titles, The Times, WSJ Magazine  and  Conde Nast Traveller .

Editorial director of premium food and travel, Kerrie McCallum said Travel + Luxury  will provide a platform to tell the most premium travel stories locally and globally.

“News Corp Australia has for many years, been the leading travel destination for Australians and we have an amazing audience of travel intenders,” said Ms McCallum.

“I’m thrilled to be expanding our travel portfolio with the launch of  Travel + Luxury .  The Australian  and the News Prestige Network brands enable us to engage with a premium travel audience, helping them uncover unique experiences, make memories and celebrate life’s special moments.

“While the travel industry has faced unprecedented challenges in the past year, our desire to explore has only intensified. Travel for Australians is intrinsic to our culture and we’re gripped by wanderlust. At a time when prospective travel corridors are still emerging, high-tech hygiene practices are evolving, and a vaccine rollout is underway, we’re already thinking big.  Travel + Luxury  is dedicated to, and predicated on, keeping our travel dreams alive.”

Tourism Australia is the launch partner of  Travel + Luxury .

Tourism Australia Managing Director Phillipa Harrison said: “Tourism Australia is delighted to be the launch partner of  Travel + Luxury . While many destinations around the world offer luxury holidays, Australia’s offering is rare and compelling, and is very much reflective of our world-class natural beauty, our exceptional food and wine offering, and our people.

“Our natural environment and propensity for outdoor living has seen the development of a unique collection of ‘barefoot’ and adventure luxury experiences that appeal to those who travel to seek knowledge as well as a genuine connection with people and place.” 

The inaugural issue of  Travel + Luxury will showcase destinations such as New Zealand and Antarctica, and an impressionism exhibition in Melbourne to designer and hotelier Collette Dinnigan ’s new bespoke experiences for a handful of guests.

The launch of  Travel + Luxury  is being supported by a multi-channel marketing campaign that will run across print, radio, DOOH, digital and social channels, along with a sampler magazine that will be inserted in  delicious .,  Vogue Australia  and  Vogue Living  in early March.

The Changing Face of Luxury Travel

How the modern traveller is reshaping a booming global industry

By Madelin Tomelty

Hot air ballooning in Cappadocia, Turkey at Sunrise

Luxury travel is not what it used to be– literally. This travel segment is changing and evolving almost as fast as it’s growing ­– a third faster than any other travel segment, to be precise – and the list of luxury hotels being built or due to open in the next few years is never-ending.

Marriott International is set to double its luxury footprint in Asia Pacific, adding nearly 100 luxury hotels in the coming years, and tour companies are experiencing incredible year-on-year growth. Luxury travel company Virtuoso has seen a remarkable expansion in its network in the past year, recording 12 per cent growth and totalling sales of over US$23 billion, up from $12.5 billion in 2013, and this figure continues to rise.

“It wasn’t that long ago that I could name you every Four Seasons or every Park Hyatt in the world. Now, I can’t even name the ones that are opening up in the next eighteen months,” CEO of global travel network, Virtuoso, Matthew Upchurch told Luxury Travel Magazine on a recent visit to Sydney.

But what is interesting is not so much the growth of the industry, but what – or more importantly, who is driving it.

“The pipeline is so massive, and part of that is being driven by the fact that… never in the history of the planet have you ever had four generations of people all travelling at the same time, in the numbers that they’re travelling,” he said.

The New Luxury Traveller

With the rise in non-luxury brands' ‘masstige’ (prestige for the masses) products closing the gap between 'premium' and 'true luxury' travel, traditional luxury travellers are now making their travel and hotel choices based on far more than just the square meterage of their suite. They want experiences, they want personalisation and they want to discover places before they become overdone and overrun.

At the same time, luxury travel has become ‘mass’. Everyone wants a touch of luxury in their lives and this previously exclusive market is now being accessed by people from many walks of life, no longer just the ‘connected few’ or very wealthy.

Digital-first Millennials and Generation X, a growing affluent female market, a rapidly emerging Chinese middle class – and Chinese Millennials, in particular – as well as the multi-generational travel movement and new technology are all contributing to reshaping the luxury travel landscape.

While the middle class and upper middle class won’t travel luxury all the time, they will splurge at milestone events and celebrations, and religiously plan and splash out on one big trip once a year or every couple of years. This aspirational group is accessing luxury travel and services more and more and is adding to an environment previously dominated by the top few per cent (3 per cent, to be precise, according to Upchurch, who revealed that 3 per cent of Virtuoso’s clients drive 40% of the company’s revenue – an exclusive group called Virtuoso Reserve Clients that spends $130,000 per year on travel – ten times what the average Virtuoso client spends).

Australian travellers in particular are consuming luxury travel experiences at record rates, according to recent YouGov research analysing global luxury consumer sentiment. Always keen to experience ‘the next big thing’, Australian travellers are wanting to get to emerging luxury travel hot spots before they become, well, hot spots.

Every year Virtuoso surveys its industry-leading force of travel agencies and advisors in 50 countries, including 82 locations in Australia, to forecast what the coming year will bring. The Luxe Report unveils consumer preferences in high-end and experiential travel.

Virtuoso’s research found that wealthy Aussies with strong share portfolios, super and property were found to take more international trips, be the second highest consumers of business class flights, and spend the most time on holiday. They also make 25 per cent more luxury trips than the average international traveller and representing the highest consumers of luxury travel leisure nights. This newly emerged, aspirational middle class group is dramatically shifting the luxury travel landscape.

Luxury travel agents also report that they’re seeing more and more younger travellers, namely millennials – those aged 22 to 37 years old – knock on their doors, prepared to invest whatever it costs for once-in-a-lifetime experiences. This globally-minded generation travels more often than previous generations, and is the first generation to use the internet and social media for travel inspiration, research and booking.

They not only consider travel an incredibly important part of their lives, often valuing it over buying a house, car, or paying off debt, they also consider it an integral part of their identity, and the holidays that they choose to take as a direct reflection of who they are. The older end of this generation – Generation Y – is also increasingly affluent, and are fast becoming big consumers of luxury travel experiences.

“[Millennials] have been part of this whole revolution of the transformation of the prioritisation of spending on goods to experiences,” Upchurch says, whose own daughter is the case-in-point: a 23-year-old who has travelled the world, but has "never owned a car in her life.”

And this mental shift is a rapidly growing one.

Luxury travellers want experiences, they want personalisation and they want to discover places before they become overdone and overrun

Research from travel network Trafalgar revealed that people today see travel not merely as an opportunity to step away from daily life and pressures, but also to be surprised and challenged and to learn, appreciate and experience something new.

As the world becomes busier and the lines between professional and personal success continue to blur, living in the moment feels more unattainable than ever, and this an issue people are actively trying to address when planning their holidays.

Multilayered expectations and shifting attitudes are transforming the very definition of a holiday. Luxury travellers now desire and expect memorable experiences that they can not only share with their network of friends and family through social media in the short term, but also have in their life experience artillery in the long term.

The industry has had to adapt to cater to this new, modern traveller that wants far more than just a room with a view, and the good news is it's coming to the party, creating a luxury travel market that is dynamic, exciting and more appealing than ever.

Veligandu Island Resort & Spa, Veligandu Island, Maldives

Making it Personal

In 2019 and beyond, luxury travel for Australians is all about personalisation and unique experiences. Virtuoso’s Luxe Report identified ‘crossing off bucket-list items’, ‘exploring new destinations’ and ‘seeking authentic experiences’ as three top motivating factors for those booking holidays, with destination immersion, or ‘destination intensives’, as Upchurch calls it, a high priority.

Smaller cruise ships that can visit boutique, smaller ports are seeing an increase in bookings, and customised small tours such as those delivered by Abercrombie & Kent are rising.

Virtuoso-affiliated travel advisors also revealed client requests that illustrate the desire for a deeper level of personalisation and one-of-a-kind experiences are on the up and up. From specific seat numbers on planes and hotel room numbers to particular rental car types, travellers are more vocal about their precise preferences than ever before.

These clients are asking for prearranged meals and appointments, and are seeking not just restaurant reservations but exact tables at in-demand hot spots. They're even pre-ordering wine to accompany the meal. They also ask their advisor to book sessions with hairdressers, massage therapists and even tattoo artists, and requests are on the rise for private helicopter transfers to and from airports as well as from one city or resort island to another.

Then there’s the ultra-exclusive, bespoke experiences such as exclusive openings and private exhibitions that more travellers are demanding, and many tour companies are now offering.

People want to explore their passions through bucket-list experiences, such as getting tickets to major events like the Olympics, Super Bowl and Wimbledon. Art aficionados are inquiring about private tours of locales like the Vatican after hours, and shoppers want appointments at high-end stores such as Hermès to purchase signature items like a Birkin bag. Luxury travel advisors are also arranging private dinners with influential local figures. 

A recent global study of luxury travellers conducted by Hilton also highlights a surprising reliance on hotel concierges, with nearly one-third of those who travelled for leisure reporting they plan little to none of their trip prior to their arrival, and an additional 47 per cent reporting they leave some details of their trip unplanned until they arrive at their hotel.

Adding to all this is a greater desire among travellers for deeper connection...

Travellers don’t just want any type of holiday – they want boutique, exclusive, elusive, personalised holidays that offer authentic experiences and instil a greater connection to the present moment, destinations and the local people. Ideally, these destinations will also be social media worthy, offering experiences that are highly sharable.

Recent research by global tour company Trafalgar revealed that 76 per cent preferred experiences such as immersive, cultural activities and off-the-beaten-path experiences that deliver authentic connections with locals. 71 per cent viewed trips where they had new experiences as being more important than those where they visited all the sights.

Travellers are also expressing heightened interest in eco-tourism, sustainability and animal-related experiences. Some request visits to animal protection facilities or to observe animals in the wild, such as whale watching and viewing rhinos at close range. Some want to interact more directly with animals, such as at the Instagram sensation Giraffe Manor in Nairobi or dogsledding in the North Pole.

Giraffe Manor in Nairobi

Local men in Sri Lanka

Exploring Antarctica on an expedition cruise

Ideas about luxury have rapidly changed from an emphasis on ‘things’ to ‘experiences’. Where designer handbags, watches and jewellery used to be the biggest status symbols, it’s now authentic, individual experiences that indicate a person’s status or level of success. Travellers want memorable experiences, and tangible products simply can't fulfil this.

Upchurch explains the shift as a “movement towards authenticity and a sense of place”.

“Today, backpackers and super high-end luxury people are actually closer than the big middle,” he said. “They have similar psychologies and in fact, a lot of today’s super luxury… they were the backpackers! And they have that sense of adventure and wanting to see something different… except this time they want hot water!”

In response, tour groups and hotels are now coming to the fore with ‘live like a local’ guides, tours and experiences. Trafalgar’s Be My Guest  experiences promise its guests will connect with ‘the soul of the places’ Trafalgar goes, giving travellers the opportunity to ‘break bread with locals who are proud to bring you into their homes, share their cultures and tell their tales’.

These are experiences like joining a family in Croatia's coastal town of Opatija for dinner, or meeting Marta Cucchia, the last person in the world creating renaissance silk and wool pieces using her family's 20th century Umbrian weaving techniques.

Trafalgar emphasises ‘unlocking the hidden gems’ with its namesake Hidden Gems tours, so discerning travellers can experience the ‘real thing’ without lifting a finger.

Modern travellers have no reservations about splurging on unique experiences, and for those that feel like they’ve seen it all, it’s about experiencing destinations in unusual ways through quirky and unconventional accommodation.

Whether it’s a treehouse or a monastery, an igloo in Norway, a tent in the Moroccan desert, or a bubble in the Maldives , this desire for novelty is driving the growth of home sharing sites like Airbnb, as well as the demand among tour operators to push the boundaries of a traditional hotel stay.

Trafalgar's Stays with Stories tours include nights in the Schloss Leopoldskron in Salzburg dating back to 1736, where some of the most romantic scenes from The Sound of Music were filmed.

The New Hotel

To keep up with the sky-high expectations of travellers, both big hotel chains and smaller, boutique properties have upped the ante on what they offer to guests, in a time when a bed and breakfast is simply not enough.

In a bid to resonate with the mindset of today's luxury traveller, brands are offering bespoke programming and distinct experiences that have been carefully curated.

In June this year Waldorf Astoria, the iconic luxury brand of Hilton, released its‘Live Unforgettable’ campaign in a dramatic repositioning of the brand to highlight its unique experiences. And in addition to its sprawling hotel footprint, Marriot International has launched a range of new and unexpected experiences to its current portfolio of 120 hotels across eight brands.

JW Marriott's Taste of JW program takes guests on a journey of unique dining experiences at properties all over the world, while the Behind the Barre program is an on-demand in-room barre workout series designed by The Joffrey Ballet.

W Hotels' millennial-focused FUTURE RISING series offers exclusive panel events with creative leaders in design, music, and fashion and gives music lovers the chance to uncover up-and-coming local artists or lay down a track at W's Sound Suites.

The Luxury's Collection's Global Explorer program offers guests an authentic look at the world's most enchanting destinations through the eyes of leading cultural voices, such as renowned graphic designer and creative director, Sofia Sanchez de Betak, while St. Regis' signature brand rituals like the Bloody Mary Cocktail, Champagne sabrage, and the Midnight Supper inspire guests to pursue their culinary passions.

Guests can also access one-of-a-kind experiences through St. Regis' Connoisseurs, an elite group of global tastemakers and artisans including fashion designer Jason Wu and celebrated polo player Nacho Figueras.

Bruce Ryde, Vice-President, Luxury Brands and Brand Marketing, Marriott International Asia Pacific, said that these curated experiences are essential in today's market. “Luxury travellers today have higher expectations than ever before. While a sumptuous hotel, spa service and fine wine with dinner used to satisfy high-end globetrotters, this-one-size-fits-all approach is now losing out to personalised and authentic travel experiences that speak to people's idealised selves,” he said.

The emergence of ‘lifestyle hotels’ also taps into a growing consumer preference for individualisation . This thinking favours cutting-edge interior design and ultimate comfort in an intimate setting . In a nutshell, boutique is the new black – and that doesn’t mean size alone.

Global hotel brands have begun adding boutique brands to their portfolios to cater to this ‘anti-hotel' sentiment, such as InterContinental’s Voco , Accor’s MGallery and SO/ hotels, Marriot's Moxy, Autograph Collection and Edition Hotels and even LUX* Resorts' new sustainability-focused Mauritian brand, Salt .

Guests want a different experience each time, and that means hotels with personality, impeccable design, and perks. There has never been more pressure on the hotel industry to be creative and ahead of the curve with their guest offering.

It also means hotels are increasingly under pressure to show a respect for and collaboration with their environment and its people.

“It used to be that things were very fragmented…but now the ecosystem is like, if a hotel isn’t somewhat a conduit or portal into the culture of the destination, it kind of falls flat” Upchurch told Luxury Travel Magazine . “And that includes two executions of that: one is how does the local culture come into the property itself through events, and what kind of relationship does it have with the community at large?”

Mandarin Oriental, Barcelona

Vista Palazzo, Lake Como, Italy

Mont Rochelle South Africa

Vista Palazzo Lake Como, Italy

“It used to be that things were very fragmented…but now the ecosystem is like, if a hotel isn’t somewhat a conduit or portal into the culture of the destination, it kind of falls flat.”

– matthew upchurch, ceo of virtuoso.

Social Media to Motivate, Technology to Facilitate

Further fanning the luxury travel experiential fire is technology and in particular, social media. Hotels now frequently receive booking requests from Instagram and sell on the social platform, while picture-perfect destination photos lure consumers to add to their bucket lists, tag their friends and start conversations about their next holiday.

Social media, and in Instagram in particular, now heavily influences the way younger generations research and undertake travel, and plays an invaluable role in the ‘dreaming’ and ‘planning’ as well as ‘sharing’ stages of the five-stage customer travel journey (dreaming, planning, booking, experiencing and sharing). Millennials’ appetite for travel content also continues to grow as a ‘fear of missing out’ mentality spreads its tentacles through the aspirational middle class.

As a result, hotels – and even bars and restaurants – are curating more and more ‘Instagrammable’ experiences, creating individual hashtags or social media-led campaigns, enabling the capture of special moments to be shared with followers.

Social media has become so powerful in the world of travel that it has even begun to blur the lines between whether it’s the documenting of the destination itself and the gratification of likes and comments that motivates, or the travel experience itself.

Virtuoso’s research revealed clients are requesting on-site photography sessions to create Instagram-worthy content, including replicating shots they admired online, and Virtuoso advisors are arranging themed photoshoots characteristic of destinations, such as wearing traditional geisha attire in Kyoto or ball gowns in Venice. 

The flip-side of this is the growing burden of social media, which, according to Trafalgar is a real thing – 53 per cent of those surveyed said that the pressure of posting on holiday was enough to put them off. For the rest of us, though, the opportunity for boutique experiences and cultural encounters that can be shared on social media are bolstering luxury travel’s boom.

For hotels, technology has allowed operators to record and define guest preferences, cataloguing what they prefer, satisfying the modern traveller’s expectation to get what they want, when they want it, in the way they want it.

But that’s not to say travellers no longer desire human interaction in hotels – quite the opposite. Hilton’s research found that nearly 70 per cent of respondents said they preferred to interact with a person concierge throughout their stay, while only 20 percent cited preferring to use a digital-only concierge. The survey noted that guests who received high-service were more likely to return to a previously visited luxury hotel four or more times. Today’s luxury travellers want it all –  quality service as well as the ease and seamlessness that technology brings.

And this is just the dawn of what is fast becoming a new era of luxury travel – who knows what tomorrow will bring?

Home » The Weekend Australian To Launch Standalone Travel + Luxury Weekend

The Weekend Australian To Launch Standalone Travel + Luxury Weekend

Travel + Luxury Weekend , a new standalone product under The Australian’s Travel + Luxury premium brand, will launch this Saturday in The Weekend Australian .

Travel + Luxury Weekend will feature fresh content and a new-look design on high-quality paper with a trimmed and stapled finish to create a superior travel product for readers and advertisers.  

Travel + Luxury Weekend editor Penny Hunter said: “Our readers are discerning and focused on the premium end of travel. Moving from a lift-out to our new standalone format will present our top-class journalism in a refreshed and modern style designed to inspire our readers to travel.

“Long-form storytelling has always been our strength, and that will continue with a fresh array of fonts and colour palettes and generous use of beautiful photography on high-quality paper.

“These will be interspersed with authoritative flight and hotel reviews, lists, deals, products and news, plus personality-driven stories. The new look will boost Travel + Luxury Weekend’s appeal as a publication; one that has a shelf life well beyond the weekend.”

Travel + Luxury Weekend’s new weekly format, along with its sister publication, the glossy bi-monthly Travel + Luxury magazine, delivers world-class travel content to create the number one source of luxury travel information and inspiration in this country.

Editorial director of premium food, health and travel, Kerrie McCallum, said the company’s News Travel Network had the largest audience of travel intenders in the country.

“Building out travel content for this highly engaged prestige audience with a standalone, refreshed version of Travel + Luxury in The Weekend Australian is the logical next step in segmenting our travel audience and targeting true travel intenders, in companion with the glossy bi-monthly magazine.

“These products are the pinnacle for premium and luxury travel in Australia, and it demonstrates how seriously we take the category and the potential of this valuable audience.”

Each issue of the new Travel + Luxury Weekend will include increased editorial content and new features. Hotel and flight reviews, in-depth destination stories, On the Radar discoveries and Perfect 10 lists remain. Fab Four has expanded to Take Five, and Destination Next will transport readers to the latest hip hotel or locale. In Residence returns, with more divine holiday homes, and the Deals and News snippets have expanded.

New content includes a Globetrotter column quizzing frequent flyers about where they’ve been, where they’re going and what they take with them. Product pages will feature travel-related goods and Just Add… will suggest pre-trip reading, viewing, listening and gear to take along for the ride.

The launch issue of Travel + Luxury Weekend has a theme of renewal throughout. From a historic train station that was gathering dust and is now a luxe hotel, to personal renewal at a wellness retreat on the Gold Coast, and NSW holiday homes that have been reborn from churches, slab huts and the like. The issue showcases the latest trends in the travel sphere and looks at how nature-based tourism is a source of healing and solace. Associate Editor Travel Susan Kurosawa writes about the eternal allure of African safaris.

Travel + Luxury has a strong presence across all platforms – print, digital, video, mobile and social – and is enhanced by a popular weekly newsletter.

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Luxury Travel Gold List Awards 2024

Entries now open.

The Luxury Travel Gold List Awards from Luxury Travel magazine is the benchmark for travel accolades in Australia and across the globe, recognising the unique and dynamic nature of the luxury traveller seeking to explore the world responsibly and sustainably.

How does it work?

The Luxury Travel Gold List Awards welcomes standout submissions from Australia, the Indo-Pacific and across the globe.

Once our entry period is closed, we turn to the knowledge of our esteemed jury who will meticulously consider each entry based on category criteria and create a world standard shortlist which is then put to our readers to cast their vote and have their say.

Winners will be announced at our reveal party in Sydney on the 4th December 2024.

Award Categories

Recognising the most progressive experiences and destinations across land and sea, The Luxury Travel Gold List Award 2024 categories reflect our core editorial content pillars of authenticity, design and sustainability – awarding those who break barriers and do great things.

New Hotel or Resort Design

Luxury Hotel (51+ rooms)

Luxury Hotel Brand

Luxury Hotel or Resort – Australia, New Zealand & South Pacific

Boutique Hotel, Resort, or Lodge (1-25 rooms)

Boutique Hotel, Resort, or Lodge (26-50 rooms)

Sustainable Luxury Resort

Gourmet Luxury Tourism Experience – Australia & New Zealand

Regenerative Tourism Experience

Luxury Hotel Restaurant or Bar

Wellness Retreat or Resort

Luxury Family Experience

Indigenous Experience

Luxury Expedition Cruise Brand

Luxury Ocean Cruise Brand (Under 300 Guests)

Luxury Ocean Cruise Brand (301-750 Guests)

Luxury Ocean Cruise Brand (Over 750 Guests)

Luxury River Cruise Brand

Luxury Travel Advisor (Individual), Australia

Boutique Luxury Travel Agency – Leisure

Medium / Large Scale Luxury Travel Agency – Leisure

Boutique Luxury Tour Operator

Medium / Large Scale Luxury Tour Operator

Outstanding Contribution to Luxury Travel in Australia

Emerging Brand to Watch

Editor’s Choice

Meet The Jury

Alice Ellis

Editor, time out.

Alice Ellis is the Sydney Editor at Time Out . After having earned a degree in Communications from UTS, she honed her writing and editing skills at magazines like Virgin Australia’s in-flight mag and  Women’s Health , where she rose to deputy editor and won the Nutrition Journalism Award. Her love for sport, particularly women’s sport, led her to embark on marketing and content roles at the NRL and One Playground before returning to media at  Time Out . Alice’s passion for writing, editing, and her hometown of Sydney shines through in her work and personal life, where she enjoys exploring the city with her family.

Anthony Goldman

Joint managing director, goldman travel group.

Anthony Goldman is the Joint Managing Director of Goldman Travel Group. After starting his career in travel, Anthony left the family business and forged a successful 20-year career in advertising and marketing. Anthony worked for several global organisations, including J Walter Thompson, Leo Burnett and Village Roadshow.

In 2012, Anthony joined his father, Tom, and brother, David, and embarked on an expansion program for Goldman Travel Group. Travel has always been in his blood, and the Goldman family is synonymous with travel in Australia. As third generation travel professionals, the Goldmans are at the forefront of travel advisory – with a mix of businesses in the corporate, leisure and cruise sectors, including Goldman Travel, Travelcall, The Cruise Centre by Travelcall and Smartflyer Australia.

Anthony is currently Chair of the Global Virtuoso Member Advisory Board, the first non-US member to hold this position, and is a Board Director of Link Travel Group.

Bernadette Chua

Content editor, big splash media.

Bernadette Chua is the Content Director at  Big Splash Media , overseeing all cruise, travel, finance and contract publishing. With a background in production for digital and print mediums, she brings a wealth of experience to the Gold List Awards jury.

She is currently the Editor of the luxury magazine Cruise & Travel, as well as the website, Cruise Passenger.

She was also at the heart of the rebrand from Cruise Passenger to Cruise & Travel, which now covers the best in luxury destinations, hotels, experiences and airlines.

She was also part of the launch team that created Explore for Australian Community Media – the brand’s weekly travel print insert that is distributed through publications like The Canberra Times and The Newcastle Herald.

Her expertise in content creation also spans across podcast, radio and television. She was also regular expert on Talking Lifestyle, discussing the cruise and travel industry. And she is also a host on Cruise Passenger’s podcast, Onboard with Cruise Passenger.

Brett Jardine

Managing director, council of australian tour operators (cato).

Brett Jardine, Managing Director of the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO)

Brett has over three decades of experience across the travel industry and since 2017, has overseen the transformation of CATO, a 23-year-old industry body that is the voice of the land-supply sector representing Australian tour operators and wholesalers.

Prior to his current role, Brett was at the helm of the Australasian office of Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) from 2007 to 2017 during a period of significant and sustained growth for the cruise industry.

Danny Englman

Managing director, fbi travel.

Danny Englman presently serves as the Joint Managing Director at FBI Travel, overseeing both the Leisure Team and the Independent Contractors associated with the agency. Danny was honoured with the title of “Best Travel Agency Manager” in Australia by AFTA at the NTIA (National Travel Industry Awards) in 2017.

Danny embarked on his journey in the travel industry in 2004 after graduating from William Angliss College. He gained valuable experience through various roles before joining FBI Travel in 2006 as a Travel Advisor. Over the years, he progressed within the organization, assuming the role of Leisure Team Manager in 2012, and subsequently taking charge of the Independent Contractor team a year later. Under his stewardship, the company prioritized growth alongside delivering unparalleled service excellence to its clients.

Today, FBI Travel stands as one of Australia’s most acclaimed premier luxury travel agencies, consistently recognized for its excellence. Voted as the Best Luxury Travel Agency in Australia by Luxury Travel Magazine for four consecutive years from 2015 to 2018, and awarded Best Travel Agency by AFTA (ATIA) at the 2017 and 2023 NTIA Awards, the agency’s reputation for excellence is unparalleled. Additionally, FBI Travel was honoured as the “Most Hospitable Agency” in Asia/Pacific by Virtuoso in their 2019 global awards and was a finalist in the Luminaries, Legends & Leaders 2021 Virtuoso Travel Awards.

Danny has played a pivotal role in shaping the industry landscape, having served on the Virtuoso Advisory Board where he contributed to refining the membership model for Virtuoso in Australia. Presently, he serves on their Regional Membership Advisory Board. He has also held honorary Advisory Board memberships for Tauck Tours and the Luxperience Trade Show.

Beyond his professional endeavours, Danny is trained in emergency medicine and actively volunteers with Hatzolah, a local community emergency response team collaborating closely with Ambulance Victoria to provide critical care to patients in need.

Dayana Brooke

Sustainability scientist and consultant, dayana brooke sustainability.

Dayana Brooke is a travel industry expert with over two decades of experience. However, her passion for sustainability and being an environmentalist truly sets her apart. As the founder of The Sustainable Traveller, she dedicates her energy and passion to advocating for travel experiences that prioritise the natural environments, communities, and low carbon emissions.

With a Masters in Sustainability and extensive knowledge of the impact of travel on the planet, Dayana helps businesses to take action by adopting simple yet effective measures, setting achievable goals to reduce emissions, and embracing innovation for positive changes.

Desmond Campbell

Ceo, welcome to country.

Desmond Campbell (Jangala/Gojok) is a proud Gurindji and Ngalakan/Alawa man who has a deep passion and wealth of experience working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities and organisations to achieve control and self-determination for First Nations communities as a whole.

As CEO of Welcome to Country Desmond has become a leading voice in the Indigenous Tourism Industry. In the first 6 months of his tenure as CEO he has travelled and spoken extensively to key stakeholders; Desmond has spoken at Tourism Australia’s signature Destination Australia Conference, the Mumbrella Travel Marketing Summit, numerous private corporate events, media engagements and all levels of government. But at the centre of his focus and inspiration as CEO is his commitment to elevating Welcome to Country as a First Nations led social enterprise and in turn its vision for more prosperous First Nations communities through economic opportunity. Welcome to Country currently have over 180 First Nations’ products and experiences listed through their platform and aim to grow there’s substantially.

Jan Henderson

Editor & program director.

Jan Henderson is currently an Editor and Program Director of the INDE.Awards at Indesign Media Asia Pacific. Her previous roles have included Acting-editor of Indesign magazine, Associate Publisher at Architecture Media, Editor and Co-editor of inside magazine and Interiors Editor of Architel.tv. As Principal of Henderson Media Consultants she contributes to various architecture and design magazines, is a regular speaker at events and has participated as a juror for industry awards. Jan is passionate about design and through her different roles supports and contributes to design in Australia.

Jenny Evans

Managing director, traveltalk media.

Jenny Evans brings a unique blend of experience and expertise to the travel industry, having transitioned from a successful career in financial IT. With over twenty years of experience including a decade as the head of IT for Credit Suisse, Australia, Jenny has honed her skills in optimizing processes and leveraging technology to drive business success. Her background in IT enables her to streamline operations and enhance efficiency, allowing her colleagues to focus on the more fulfilling aspects of their roles while automating routine tasks.

Jenny’s journey into the travel industry during the challenging times of COVID demonstrates her resilience and adaptability. Despite being new to the field, she has quickly made her mark with her fresh perspective and innovative ideas. Beyond her professional accomplishments, Jenny’s personal experiences have shaped her passion for travel. Having lived in various countries, including the UK, Singapore, and Australia, and travelled extensively, she brings a global perspective and cultural sensitivity to her role. Her deep love for travel fuels her dedication to making a positive impact in the industry and driving Traveltalk Media to new heights.

Joleena Seah

Managing director, ghc asia.

After more than 20 years of luxury hospitality experience with some of the world’s most iconic brands, Joleena crossed the fence to join leading PR agency, GHC Asia, in 2019. Her current portfolio comprises critically-acclaimed hotel brands, luxury cruise lines, premium real estate, two of the region’s renowned travel trade shows as well as a bespoke travel designer. With her rare knowledge of hotel operations complemented by strong connections in the tourism industry, Joleena adds a fresh perspective to her strategic counsel that is aligned with the evolving needs of her prestigious clients. A passionate traveller with an insatiable appetite for new travel experiences, Joleena has been vigorously ticking off her Bucket List since Singapore’s border reopened.

Founder & CEO, Julie King & Associates and Founder of Bonailie

Julie King is an entrepreneur and visionary leader, boasting over 37 years of global accomplishments within the hospitality and tourism sectors. Her extensive experience spans diverse roles, from managing luxury hotels in Scotland and Dubai to directing tourism consultancies in Dubai and Australia. Julie’s comprehensive understanding of international tourism enables her to identify and capitalize on key growth opportunities and transformative trends within the industry.

With offices in Sydney and New Zealand, her consultancy firm, Julie King and Associates, has garnered acclaim and awards for its outstanding work. As a result of her extensive experience working with 24 countries, Julie has solidified her reputation as a preeminent authority in the field of tourism and travel.

Julie King’s impact on the travel and tourism industry extends far beyond her consultancy work. As the founder of Bonailie, the world’s first purpose-led global community platform, Julie has disrupted the industry and sparked a new era of collaboration and positive change. Bonailie unites industry professionals from around the world, providing a platform for them to collaborate and drive meaningful impact. Through Bonailie, she has created a movement, inspiring others to join in the journey towards a more sustainable and responsible tourism industry

Katherine Droga

Chair, global wellness institute.

Katherine Droga is passionate about the transformational effect travel can have for people and the planet. She is founder of several successful global wellness platforms including Well Traveller and Well Traveller TV, Wellness wander and Australia’s premiere wellness industry event the Wellness Tourism Summit and its sister event Wellness Tourism Unearthed. Her consultancy firm, Droga & Co. , specialises in wellness and sustainable strategy development for destinations, tourism experiences and events worldwide. Katherine is also proud to be the Chair of the Global Wellness Institute’s  Wellness Tourism Initiative,  a global think tank and research on wellness travel trends.

Founder, Spa & Wellness Magazine

Kris has been a wellness advocate since she was 15! She has studied Science, Exercise Physiology, PE and nutrition, and spends her time writing, speaking, and consulting on all things Spa and wellness.

She publishes Spa & Wellness Magazine and online directory (spaandwellness.com.au), inspiring readers to explore wellness in all its forms. Wellness and wellness tourism is a true love, and it is unlikely anyone has visited more wellness retreats around the world than Kris!

Her most recent undertaking is launching the Asia Pacific Spa & Wellness awards giving recognition to people and properties dedicated to improving the lives of others!

Kylee Daniel

Director of partnerships, nz māori tourism, new zealand.

After spending two decades in senior global roles across various sectors such as corporate, sports, major events, tourism, and government, Kylee is now working at New Zealand Māori Tourism. She is passionate about her contribution to the organisation, where she combines her corporate and industry experience to provide better marketing opportunities for Māori-owned tourism businesses and support their aspirations.

Kylee works closely with Tourism NZ and other influential industry and trade partners to leverage and maximize their global and national activity, improve narrative and storytelling, grow knowledge, create meaningful connections, and enhance the overall visitor experience.

Louise Goldsbury

Louise is a freelance travel writer, who specialises in luxury cruising. She has sailed on 100 ocean, river and expedition cruises across seven continents. Louise also creates guides to make cruising less confusing – every step from choosing a cruise line to packing tips and saving money. Louise’s free Cruisey Life newsletter is available at cruiseylife.com.

Lyndey Milan OAM

Author, celebrity chef, presenter, judge.

As one of Australia’s most trusted and respected food and wine icons, Lyndey was awarded the Medal of the Order of Australia (OAM) for her “services to hospitality, particularly to the food and wine industry, and to the community”. With more than four decades of experience, expertise and education, Lyndey is an accomplished author, award-winning celebrity chef, multimedia presenter, host, judge, EmCee, speaker, honoured industry leader, advocate, ambassador and in-demand consultant. Lyndey is also a popular tour host to Puglia, Japan and Morocco and an Enrichment Speaker for Silversea Cruises and P&O Cruises.

Lyndey’s dedication to connecting people is driven by her belief that food, wine and culture are powerful tools for creating meaningful connections. Delivering her engaging events, television shows, industry consulting, impactful advocacy work and proud work in regional Australia, Lyndey’s ultimate goal is for people to experience connection, nourishment, and inspiration through the universality of food.

Lynne Ireland

Managing director, inspired luxury.

Lynne Ireland has dedicated her career to launching and marketing inspiring hotels and experiences globally and was at the forefront of developing the luxury boutique hotel niche within the Asia Pacific.

Creating award winning strategies, Lynne is an early adopter and innovator, with an innate understanding of luxury, together with the importance of wellness, community, and sustainability, with first initiatives developed 25 years ago.

Multiple award winner of ‘Brand Management of the Year’ at HM Awards for Excellence, ‘PR Communicator of the Year’ by the ASTW, Lynne also served on the Boards/Advisory of ASTW, IMM, HSMAI and the Bestest Charity.

Madelin Tomelty

Editor, luxury travel magazine.

Madelin is the editor of  Luxury Travel , leading the brand’s editorial voice both in print and online. Having began her career in fashion writing and editing, she transitioned to travel journalism in 2015 and since then has held various editorships in both print and digital media. In 2018, she became the Digital Editor & Features Writer at the previous iteration of  Luxury Travel , where she led the successful redesign and relaunch of  luxurytravelmag.com.au  while penning long-form cover stories and features for the magazine. Madelin has also worked as a freelance copywriter for prestigious travel brands and has extensive experience as a presenter and host. She brings a strong interest in the constant evolution of the luxury travel market – along with a deep understanding of the modern Australian luxury traveller – to her role as juror in the Luxury Travel Gold List Awards this year.

Melinda Gregor

Managing director, gregor & lewis bespoke travel.

With more than 35 years in the travel industry, Melinda has worked in almost every area imaginable. Starting her journey with Qantas Holidays, she travelled the world extensively as an eagle-eyed 20-something. Melinda then relocated to Egypt to escort tour groups for three years through the most exotic parts of the Middle East, including Egypt, Jordan, Israel, Syria and Turkey. On returning to Australia, she became Operations Manager with the world’s leader in luxury, bespoke travel, Abercrombie & Kent. During her five years at A&K Melinda huddled with gorillas in Uganda, discovered palaces in India, trekked to Machu Picchu, cruised to Antarctica and explored the luxury lodges and game parks of Africa. Melinda then had two seasons at the exclusive El Questro in the Kimberley in Western Australia, before deciding to settle on the Sunshine Coast in 2004. Melinda with brother Stuart, launched Gregor & Lewis Bespoke Travel in 2008. Melinda has travelled extensively to more than 80 countries in the world, including many exotic and exclusive destinations. Over the last 18 years Melinda has also become an avid cruiser particularly on small ships (under 1200 people) and is the highest ranked Master Cruise Consultant on the Sunshine Coast, as recognised by the International Cruise Council of Australia. Melinda attends Virtuoso Travel Week annually and has attended ILTM (international Luxury Travel Mart) on many occasions.

Philip Englberts

Founder & managing director, pepr agency.

Philip Engelberts is the founder and managing director of PEPR Agency, which is currently celebrating its 20th year in business. Over his 25-year career in Australia, Philip has built a reputation as a trusted public relations and communications advisor.

Leading a team of eight, specialising in hotels, cruise, destination management and travel distribution, Philip has been awarded communicator of the year by the Australian society of travel writers multiple times.

Rachel Kingswell

Rachel Kingswell is responsible for the management and performance of the luxury, boutique Travel Associates retail network of 60 businesses in Australia & NZ; as well as the Operational Leadership of the Luxury Travel Collection’s independent portfolio of members. She has spent 23 years in the travel industry, starting her career on the retail frontline and progressing due to her exceptional drive and passion for delivering results. She has held various roles in retail sales, management and operations in AU, NZ & RSA. Her luxury travel experience provides insight into the best way to deliver a high touch service, allowing her to passionately represent both the Travel Associates and Luxury Travel Collection brands, and the requirements of delivering strong financial results within a large, listed company. Rachel is a true extrovert and a committed ‘people person’, prioritising authentic partnerships in business, and forging meaningful relationships beyond the transactional into genuine connections. She is always willing to go the extra mile for suppliers and teams, genuinely caring for individual people, not just results. As a leader, she is supportive and encouraging, yet able to clearly articulate expectations, believing that open communication and transparency is the only pathway to credible, trusted relationships.

Sheriden Rhodes

Sheriden is a travel writer and photographer with a particular soft spot for islands, good coffee and infinity pools. She’s a self-confessed Fiji-phile having visited the island nation almost thirty times while she’s also traipsed the globe visiting everywhere from Vietnam to Laos, Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Hungary, Germany and Vanuatu – often with her now teen daughter in tow.

Recently she sailed from Budapest to Amsterdam on a river cruise, castle spotting and cycling along the Danube. She was also in Bali for Niyepe Day (day of silence) before heading to the Komodo Islands, home to the giant Komodo Dragon. Her stories have appeared in leading Australian and international publications including the Sydney Morning Herald, Good Weekend, the Australian Financial Review, Qantas the Australian Way, Country Style, the Robb Report, NZ Herald and many others.

Sujata Raman

Former managing director au/nz, abercrombie & kent.

Sujata Raman has had an impressive career in luxury travel and hospitality in three continents, working in Asia, the Middle East and Australia. In her most recent role as Regional Head for an award-winning luxury travel company, Sujata set up offices across Australia, New Zealand and China.  Her keen eye for genuine luxury, coupled with a deep interest in travel trends, formed the basis of an ever-changing product portfolio and development of innovative travel products. Sujata’s love of the travel has seen her cross the globe, searching out innovative travel experiences for sophisticated travellers desiring real understanding of the wider world.

Susie Westwood

Managing director, the brandman agency.

Susie Westwood is a luxury travel leader and director of The Brandman Agency, Sydney. The agency has offices in New York, Los Angeles and London as well as Sydney and takes a global approach with its prestigious stable of travel, tourism, design and hospitality clients.

Susie’s background encompasses many successful years with the Vogue magazines Australia – Vogue Australia, Vogue Entertaining & Travel and Vogue Living Australia as an editor and writer and additionally in promotional roles, such as director of Public Relations, whilst they were published by The Condé Nast Publications in Australia and following.

Together with Melanie Brandman, Founder and CEO, The Brandman Agency, New York, Susie launched The Brandman Agency Australia in November 2011.

Thushara Liyanarachchi

Director global sales, taj.

Thushara Liyanarachchi is a name which for many, symbolizes inspiration, diligence & professionalism with warmth. Having joined the Luxury Hotel Group Taj, as a management trainee, twenty-five years ago, Thushara, through her hard work and dedication and an unparalleled zeal to deliver best results in least given time; has risen to Director Global Sales – Australia and New Zealand. Thushara has successfully developed and nurtured relationships with Global consortia’s, Fortune 500 companies, both Federal & State Governments and incentive houses. Her in-depth knowledge and ability to gauge the subtle market changes makes her indispensable in every role and responsibilities at the highest level, both for inbound and outbound businesses out of Australia and New Zealand.

Tracey Leitch

Owner & director, impressions marketing communications.

Tracey established Impressions Marketing Communications over two decades ago and has had an extensive and vibrant career in communications.  A Post Graduate Business degree at the beginning of this journey.

Significant results have been generated for all clients across print, broadcast, web, social media and key influencer platforms which have in turn contributed significantly to their business profile, growth and success.

Tracey is a current member of the The Australian Society Of Travel Writers , The Travmedia network and the national PR hub The Social Diary.

Yvonne Verstandig

Managing director, y travel.

Yvonne Verstandig is the founder and Director of Y Travel, Australia’s premier luxury, purpose-led travel agency. With a team of experienced travel advisors, including those from boutique Virtuoso agency Trans World Travel, Yvonne curates hyper-personalized itineraries based on each traveller’s unique ‘travel DNA.’ Unique to Y Travel is Yvonne’s catalogue of eight specific ‘Y Factors’, which she personally developed as a way of categorising travel according to travellers’ different portals of passion. A tangible tool to encourage them to discover their “Travel Why”.

Some of Yvonne’s exceptional achievements include being Virtuoso’s Most Admired Advisor for the APAC region and receiving global nominations for Virtuoso’s ‘Most Innovative Advisor’. Her influential role extends to advisory boards such as Belmond’s and Silversea’s, shaping the industry as a luminary and leader in luxury travel.

4 April 2024

Entries Open

30 May 2024

Entries Close

27 June 2024

Judging commences

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Exploring Australian Cities in a Rental Car: A Guide to Urban Adventures Down Under

• May 9, 2024

Exploring Australian cities by rental car offers an intimate glimpse into the vibrant urban life and the freedom to uncover hidden gems at your own pace. Whether you're navigating through the bustling streets of Sydney, cruising the scenic coasts surrounding Brisbane, or soaking in the cultural hub of Melbourne, a rental car service like East Coast Car Rentals , provides the flexibility that public transport often lacks. With the convenience of setting your own itinerary, you can cherry-pick the attractions that interest you most without the constraints of scheduled tours.

Australia's diverse landscape is matched by a variety of rental car options to suit your preferences, with vehicles ranging from economical models for the budget-conscious traveler to luxury cars for those seeking comfort and style. Rental costs can vary, starting at around $40 a day for a standard economy vehicle—a reasonable expenditure for the autonomy it affords. By choosing to self-drive, you also have the opportunity to explore beyond the city limits, discovering the picturesque outskirts that are seldom reached by conventional tour routes.

Before you set off, there are practicalities to consider to ensure a smooth journey. It's often more economical to opt for longer rentals and exploring price comparison sites can snag you the best deals. Depending on your travel plans, the flexibility of picking up a rental in city centers or at the airport can affect convenience and pricing. Whichever you choose, driving a rental car is a quintessentially personal way to experience Australia's urban offerings at a rhythm that suits your travel tempo.

Planning Your Australian Road Trip

Proper planning ensures that your Australian road trip is both exciting and stress-free. This involves selecting a suitable rental car and understanding booking and insurance details.

Choosing the Right Rental Car

When selecting a rental car for your journey across Australia, consider the size and features based on the nature of your trip. If you’re traveling solo or as a couple, a compact car might be more budget-friendly and easier to navigate in the cities. For groups or family travelers, a larger vehicle with enough space for everyone and their luggage is essential.

• Compact car: Economical, easy to park, ideal for city travel
• SUV: More space, added comfort, suitable for varied terrain
• Minivan: Perfect for families, offers ample space

Always assess the rental prices from various rental companies. Some may offer package deals that include extras like GPS, car seats, or roof racks. Check if the company offers one-way rentals if you're not planning a round trip.

Booking and Insurance Tips

To secure the best rental prices, book your vehicle in advance. Utilize online platforms and compare different companies to find the best deals. Keep an eye out for any package deals that could save you money on extras.

• Early booking: Often guarantees better rates
• Comparison: Check multiple sites for price and package comparisons
• Credit card: May offer rental insurance benefits

Ensure you have proper insurance coverage for your rental car. This may include collision damage waiver and third-party liability. Sometimes, your credit card may provide rental insurance as a benefit, so check your card's policy details.

Remember, if you're an international visitor, you might need an international driving permit to drive in Australia. Carry a map or use Google Maps to plan your routes and always follow local road trip rules and safety guidelines for a secure journey.

Top Destinations to Explore by Car

Exploring Australia by car affords you the flexibility to discover each state's unique landscapes and iconic destinations at your own pace.

Driving Through Victoria

Embarking on a road trip through Victoria, Melbourne stands out as a must-visit cosmopolitan city, teeming with culture and art. Just beyond Melbourne’s bustling streets, the Great Ocean Road beckons, taking you past the awe-inspiring Twelve Apostles and through quaint coastal towns. Victoria's diverse scenery also includes the rugged beauty of The Grampians, where you can appreciate Aboriginal rock art and breathtaking natural panoramas.

Discovering Queensland's Highlights

In Queensland, the contrast between urban and natural environments is striking. Brisbane city couples its vibrant urban precincts with accessible, lush hinterlands. Venturing further from the city, the state offers a kaleidoscope of experiences, from the sun-kissed beaches of the Gold Coast to the ancient rainforests farther north. Here, road travel is essential to fully experience Queensland's extensive beauty.

Unveiling New South Wales' Secrets

Your journey through New South Wales has Sydney as a splendid starting point, with its iconic harbor and rich culture. Beyond Sydney's energetic pulse, the state's vast countryside unfolds—drive through wine regions, explore secluded bays, and uncover tucked-away towns. The verdant landscapes and rugged coastline offer endless opportunities for discovery as you navigate your way through this region's treasures.

On the Road Essentials

Before you hit the road to explore the urban sprawls and cultural hubs of Australia in your rental car, it's essential to be well-prepared. From understanding local road rules to effective cost management, getting these essentials in order will ensure a smooth journey.

Navigating Australian Roads

To confidently navigate through Australia's diverse landscapes, ensure you have current maps or a GPS system handy. Most rental cars come equipped with GPS, which can be invaluable when finding your way around. While paper maps provide a good backup, digital maps on your smartphone, with apps like Google Maps, are often updated in real-time for the most accurate guidance. Be mindful of the scenic routes, like the Great Ocean Walk, where you might prefer off-the-grid maps due to signal interruptions.

Safety and Local Regulations

Your safety on Australian roads comes first. Always adhere to speed limits, which are strictly enforced and can vary, typically from 50 km/h in urban areas to 100-110 km/h on highways and motorways. A valid driving license is required at all times, and it's crucial to understand the road signs to avoid penalties. You'll need to drive on the left-hand side of the road here. It’s not uncommon to encounter wildlife on rural roads, especially at dawn and dusk, so stay vigilant to avoid accidents.

Managing Costs and Conveniences

Manage your trip expenses effectively by keeping tabs on fuel costs and mileage. Rental cars often come with unlimited kilometers, but it's wise to confirm this to avoid surprise charges. Pack essentials like a power bank and extra charging cables to keep your devices powered up, and consider communication essentials like a local SIM card for calls and data. If you decide to park the car for a bit, knowing the public transport options can save you money and give you a break from driving.

Remember to pack appropriate clothing for the climate, and bring along entertainment options for long drives. Embracing the freedom to explore Australia's natural beauty at your own pace is one of the great benefits of renting a car, so take the time to enjoy those unplanned stops and breathtaking views.

Choosing Your Car Rental Provider

When planning your Australian city adventure, selecting the right car rental provider is crucial for a hassle-free experience. From comparing various car hire companies to understanding the convenience of pickup points and airports, your choices will directly impact your travel budget and journey.

Comparing Car Hire Companies

Car rental in Australia offers a broad range of options, from international names like Hertz, Avis, Europcar, and Thrifty to smaller, local car hire services. Here's a snapshot of how to compare them:

• Best Price: Frequently check online aggregators for competitive rates and possible discounts.
• Vehicle Selection: Determine if they have the car type to match your needs, whether an economy car for city travel or a 4×4 for rugged landscapes.
• Service Reputation: Look for customer reviews to judge the reliability and service quality of the company.
• Policy Clarity: Ensure you fully understand the rental agreement, particularly concerning additional drivers or insurance cover.

Remember, longer rentals might attract better rates, so consider the length of your hiring period.

Utilizing Pickup Points and Airports

Your choice of pickup location, such as airports or city centers, can offer both convenience and cost implications:

• Airports: Most major rental companies operate from airport hubs, offering a vast selection and the potential for deals. However, be aware of higher fees that may apply to airport pickups.
• City Centers: Picking up your rental car in the city might save you the airport surcharge. Use tools like Google Maps to locate both renowned and smaller car hire companies that might not appear on larger booking platforms.

Consider convenience versus cost when deciding on your pickup point and be sure to factor in how it aligns with your travel route and activities.

Final Thoughts

Renting a car for your Australian adventure offers flexibility and convenience to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and landscapes. When booking your vehicle, remember to:

• Compare prices from various rental agencies using price comparison websites.
• Consider prepaying to potentially secure a discount.
• Share costs with friends if traveling in a group.
• Select a vehicle that suits your needs; avoid renting a 4×4 unless necessary.
• Economy cars start at approximately $30/day, providing an affordable option.

When traveling:

• Plan your route and account for distances between cities.
• Familiarize yourself with local traffic laws to ensure a safe trip.
• Check for extras like baby seats or GPS , which may incur additional costs.

By following these tips, you're set for an efficient and comfortable journey, exploring Australia at your own pace. Safe travels!

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