Margot Windenburg, the Senior Sales Manager for North America at AAT Kings, has been a driving force in the travel industry for over two decades, with nearly eight years dedicated to AAT Kings. Her profound passion for Australia and New Zealand is reflected in the meticulously crafted tours that offer travelers unforgettable experiences. The 2025/2026 season for AAT Kings and its premium sister brand, Inspiring Journeys, introduces exciting new itineraries such as the Emu Ridge Eucalyptus Tour and the Tasmanian Gourmet Sauce Company visit.

Margot is also a staunch advocate for AAT Kings’ MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, which aim to positively impact local communities and the environment. Her commitment extends to supporting travel agents through advanced tools like the TTC Travel Agent Portal, ensuring seamless booking and management. Margot’s expertise and dedication make her a key figure in delivering exceptional travel experiences across Australia and New Zealand. Read the rest of this entry »

The Travel Answers Group has been highly successful at growing a business for 32 years based on designing quality vacations to Australia, New Zealand, Africa and the South Pacific. The company’s transcontinental product range is broad and diverse. But its formula for success is a simple philosophy that can be expressed in a few words. It’s all about providing a high order of service. That company ethos provides the focus and the underlying driving force of its success Read the rest of this entry »

My wife and I have been cruising to Australia for nearly 25 years. During that time, we have never paid gratuities on any ship we’ve sailed. Some have been luxury lines, such as Silversea, where gratuities are never charged; others have been mid-priced, such as Azamara and Celebrity, where tipping is customary despite the fact they are (or were) owned by the same corporate entity.

The reason is explained in an article by Sally Macmillan, Tipping on Ships: An Australian Culture Clash, which starts off: Read the rest of this entry »

Global tour operator Collette Travel, which recently announced as much as 90% of their travel itineraries are operating at pre-pandemic levels, is now booking travel to Australia and New Zealand for departures beginning in September 2022, following a nearly two-year-long pause due to Covid-19.  The South Pacific opened to travelers earlier this week after closing its borders for more than 700 days.

A variety of itineraries are being offered throughout Australia and New Zealand, including a brand new small group explorations tour.  Guests on the inspiring 22-day Australia and New Zealand Uncovered tour will experience the core of Maori culture in New Zealand and then dive into the unparalleled Outback of Australia, giving them the best of both worlds. Pricing starts at $5,899 pp.

“For years, Australia and Zealand have both emerged as favorite destinations amongst our guests. We’re now offering six itineraries, including a variety of unique experiences, so that you can choose the right one for your client.” said Jaclyn Leibl-Cote, President of Collette.

Australia and New Zealand appeals to both the adventurous as well as those seeking a little relaxation. Guests can enjoy “the barbie” and fine wines, beautiful beaches, and scenic landscapes in the mountains.

Clients can book confidently knowing that when they add Collette’s Travel Protection Plan, they get a full money-back refund† if they need to cancel – up to 24 hours before departure. Travel advisors will also earn advanced commission.

Visit www.collette.com for more information.

AAT Kings has been a pioneer in the adventuring of Australia and New Zealand for over 100 years. They were one of the driving forces that opened the Australian outback to the eyes and excitement of travelers within the country, as well as international. Now, as Australia looks to open its borders to the world once again, AAT has set its sights on a new campaign to intrigue the traveler. The ‘Wild Awaits’ campaign seeks to jump right into the reinvigorated travel industry as COVID-19 wanes. Read the rest of this entry »