I have recently returned from the fascinating, enchanting and truly mind-blowing destination of Egypt and what an incredible experience it was! I was very lucky to be invited on a special trip celebrating the 50th anniversary of Uniworld and Luxury Gold. Along with around 140 travel industry professionals and media, we spent seven nights cruising the Nile across two beautiful ships, experiencing some of Egypt’s most iconic sights along the way. We also enjoyed two nights at the luxurious Four Seasons Cairo, overlooking the Nile. It was a wonderful introduction to Cairo a vibrant, fascinating and wonderfully chaotic city!

The Pyramids & Beyond

Visiting the Pyramids of Giza was, of course, a bucket-list experience and absolutely brilliant. One of the highlights was actually going inside one of the pyramids. It was incredibly hot and claustrophobic, but being able to say I had experienced it was pretty special! From Cairo, we cruised along the Nile onboard the beautiful SS Sphinx. The ship offers an authentically immersive experience, with elegant, bespoke décor and a wonderful sense of place. Cruising the Nile really is such a special way to experience Egypt and absorb the incredible history and scenery along the river. And we certainly didn’t go hungry! The food onboard was delicious, with buffet breakfasts and lunches followed by a four course la carte dinner each evening. The service and attention to detail throughout the cruise were exceptional.

History Brought to Life

One of the real highlights was travelling with the wonderful Egyptologists assigned to each coach. Their knowledge and passion brought the incredible sites to life and gave us a much deeper understanding of the history and stories behind what we were seeing. Alongside the Grand Egyptian Museum, we visited some truly extraordinary places, including the Temple of Karnak, Temple of Hathor, Valley of the Kings and the awe-inspiring Abu Simbel. There were so many highlights that it is impossible to include them all! Our days often started very early to avoid the heat, but it was completely worthwhile. Exploring the temples before the crowds arrived, in the beautiful early morning light, was a magical experience.

A ‘Pinch Me’ Moment

One of my favourite experiences was an afternoon felucca ride, followed by high tea at the famous Old Cataract Hotel in Aswan. Sitting overlooking the Nile as the sun began to set was a real “pinch me” moment one of those travel experiences that stays with you long after you return home. I have to say, I was really looking forward to this trip, but Egypt exceeded even my expectations. I loved watching everyday Egyptian life unfold as we cruised along the Nile. Even travelling by coach between the sites and seeing snippets of daily life along the way became a highlight. Egypt is one of those destinations that is difficult to fully describe until you have experienced it for yourself. The history is extraordinary, the scenery is captivating, and cruising the Nile provides such a wonderful way to experience it all.  My biggest problem now is trying to narrow down my hundreds of photos to just the highlights!

If Egypt has ever been on your travel wish list, I would be very happy to share more about my experience and help you explore what a journey there could look like.

If Sri Lanka isn’t already on your travel radar, it should be.

I recently returned from a whirlwind 7-day journey across this incredibly diverse destination and while the pace was fast (this itinerary is usually done over 14 days), it gave me a fantastic insight into just how much Sri Lanka has to offer. Think lush tea plantations, wildlife safaris, heritage cities, and stunning coastline all paired with some truly exceptional luxury stays.

We focused primarily on high-end, 4–5 star properties, and one thing became very clear f you’re looking for a seamless, all-inclusive experience with incredible service, the Uga properties are hard to beat.

Our journey began in Negombo, just 20 minutes from the airport. It’s the perfect place to land easy, relaxed, and beachy ideal after a long flight before heading inland.

From there, we explored Sri Lanka’s cultural heart, staying at one of the most memorable properties of the trip, Uga Ulagalla. Set across sprawling rice paddies, each villa comes with its own private plunge pool and complete privacy. One of the standout experiences here was a traditional Kamatha dinner under the stars an unforgettable evening of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and culture.

Kandy offered a softer pace, with river views and a beautiful boutique stay just outside the city, before heading into the tea country. This was easily one of my favourite regions. Rolling green hills, cool air, and breathtaking scenery made it feel like a completely different country. Our stay here felt more like a private luxury home than a hotel intimate, peaceful, and incredibly special.

Next stop: Yala National Park. This was where Sri Lanka really surprised me. Imagine waking up in your own private luxury cabin, heading out on safari to spot elephants and (if you’re lucky) leopards, then returning for sunset drinks by the ocean. It’s a rare combination of safari and beach and it works beautifully.

We finished in Galle and Talpe, where colonial charm meets coastal luxury. Think boutique hotels, ocean views, and wandering the cobbled streets of Galle Fort at sunset.

A quick note on travel distances in Sri Lanka can be deceiving. While places may not look far on a map, the roads are winding and journeys can take time. Our days ranged from 3–7 hours of driving, which is why I’d strongly recommend a longer itinerary if time allows. Slowing it down means you can truly enjoy each destination.

So, is Sri Lanka worth it? Absolutely.

It’s a destination that offers so much in one trip culture, nature, wildlife, beaches, and world-class hospitality. I left already knowing exactly where I’d go back to (and stay longer next time!).

If Sri Lanka has been on your list, now is the time to do it properly.

Reach out if you’d like a tailored itinerary or my personal hotel recommendations, I’d love to help you experience it the right way.

I was lucky enough to experience Vietnam for the first time with Wide Eyed Tours, a locally based Vietnamese company that specialises in travel across Asia. Accompanied by two of their wonderful consultants—Khanh from Hanoi and Thu from Hoi An—we were treated to an authentic and immersive journey, seeing the country through the eyes of locals. As it was a luxury tour, we were thoroughly spoilt with stays in some of Vietnam’s most beautiful hotels. In Hanoi, we stayed at the iconic Sofitel Legend Metropole, where an upgrade to a stunning Prestige Suite and access to the Club Lounge set the tone for a special trip. We explored the city on an open-air Jeep tour, which took us through bustling streets, quiet neighbourhoods, and historic landmarks—a fantastic way to get under the skin of Hanoi.

Next was a night aboard the Capella Cruise in Halong Bay, where dramatic limestone formations and peaceful waters offered a complete change of pace from city life. In Hue, the former imperial capital, we stayed at the elegant Silk Path Grand Hue Hotel & Spa and explored the city and countryside by Vespa, soaking in the charm and history at every turn. Our final stop was Hoi An, where we stayed at the serene Namia River Retreat. This wellness-focused resort was the perfect place to unwind, offering everything from yoga and herbal treatments to Tai Chi classes. We also joined a fun, hands-on cooking class at Red Bridge Cooking School—an ideal way to connect with local flavours and traditions.

From vibrant cities to peaceful riverside towns, Vietnam impressed at every step. It’s a destination rich in culture, history, and contrast—offering the perfect blend of luxury and authenticity, all at surprisingly affordable prices. It truly feels a step above some of the other Asian destinations and is ideal for both new and returning travellers.

I spent 5.5 weeks travelling round South America which was absolutely amazing, and it really was the trip of a lifetime.

We started in Ecuador, and I was lucky enough to experience a 5-day Galapagos Cruise with Royal Galapagos.

This really was one of my highlights. Visiting the Galapagos Islands feels like you are in a different World. The Scenery, Wildlife and Marine life was just outstanding.

We then travelled to The Amazon Jungle and had 3 nights to experience life in the Rainforest. Another fantastic opportunity to be walking around in nature surrounded by all sorts of birds, animals, reptiles, and insects.

From the Amazon we headed to the Sacred Valley and again another highlight spending time in Machu Picchu and Cusco. I was brave enough to climb Huayna Picchu which is quite an achievement.

After Cusco we made our way to Lake Titicaca which is another very unique location which boasts the floating islands of Uros where the indigenous locals live. We spent a day watching them hunt for food and hand make their embroidery to sell.

Crossing the Border from Peru we had a few days in La Paz Bolivia. Contours the South American Specialist were fantastic and assisted with putting the 22-day itinerary together for me.

On to the next Country where we boarded a flight to Buenos Aires and spent a few nights there before we started a G ‘Adventures tour from Buenos Aires to Rio De Janeiro.

This small group tour was a fantastic way to travel to the Iguazu Falls where we had an opportunity to see both side of the falls which is mind blowing. We took a jetboat tour right under the falls which was spectacular.

The group took a small flight to Sao Paulo where we then travelled through Brazil stopped off and stayed in Paraty and Ilha Grande before we concluded our tour in Rio.

Rio De Janeiro was phenomenal. There is so much to do and see and it really is an Iconic City of the World.

South America is must destination that really needs to be experienced. Please come and see me should you want to immerse yourself in this unique Continent of the World.

When I told my friends and family I was lucky enough to be heading to Egypt the one question I was continuously asked was, “ Is it safe?”.
It wasn’t something that had even crossed my mind and I was just excited and honoured to have been asked to participate in this trip and to travel it with Bunnik Tours who were amazing beyond words.

Landing in Cairo we were welcomed by the smiling Bunnik representative who lead us to the spacious coach and the adventure began.
We travelled through the crazy city of Cairo where you really do struggle to comprehend the size and growth of the city.

Not long after leaving the hustle and bustle of Cairo you are suddenly confronted with the Great Pyramids, Mind-boggling!!
Seeing the Pyramids was really a pinch myself moment. As a child you learn all about the Pyramids, Mummies, Abu Simbel and the incredible history of Egypt, never to think I would ever experience all of these incredible ancient monuments with my own eyes.

From Cairo we flew to Aswan to embark on our three night Nile Cruise to Luxor and then finishing back in Cairo.

The whole trip ran seamlessly and it really was the perfect stress-free, small group tour that you wish for as a traveller. Bunnik just made everything so easy and you can see their passion and love for travel in their tours and through their staff on the ground, you are looked after from start to finish. It means that as a traveller you can just sit back and soak up the history and immerse yourself in the destination.

Now if people ask me, “Is Egypt Safe”, I say without any hesitations…Yes, not only do you feel safe but you feel welcomed!

To find out more, email Bec on rebecca@travelaffare.com.au

‘Fiji time’ is an expression you’ll hear often when it comes to holidays in this island paradise. Although it’s the perfect way to describe the leisurely way the Fijians do everything and a good excuse to laze around doing not very much at all, it’s also a bit of a cliché that doesn’t completely do this South Pacific gem justice. For a long time, Fiji has had a strong reputation for family holidays, particularly for Aussies and when you consider that almost every hotel and resort offers ‘kids clubs’ it’s not hard to see why.

However many people are surprised to find the Fiji is also an outstanding holiday destination for big kids too. Whether you’re young or young-at-heart, days in Fiji can be as relaxing or as action-packed as you like. In fact, if you’re up for a bit of adventure, there are plenty of Fiji Tours to get your adrenaline pumping including rainforest ziplining, offroading, jet boating and more.

We were fortunate enough to do the Sigatoka River Safari and Jet Boat – this is a must when travelling to Fiji a great way to combine interesting history and cultural experiences with high speed fun and adventure, this river safari features jet boat rides to a traditional village as well as cultural insights, kava tasting and lunch with traditional entertainment. With many stops along the way, you’ll enjoy an exciting day of travelling by jet boat including squeal-inducing 360 degree spins.

We Flew Fiji Airways on the direct Service From Adelaide, These flights are equivalent to a domestic flight within Australia. There is the Convenience of only flying 4hrs50min and overnight flight to arrive Fiji early hours of the morning allowing you time to connect to any of the Fijian islands is a bonus. Fiji Airways are offering some great airfares as well at the moment.

For more information feel free to Contact me on email: Claire@travelaffare.com.au

As part of the Travel Corporations Great Escape Incentive I was fortunate enough to win a spot on the Contiki Asia trip to experience Malaysia and Thailand.
Having experienced Contiki Europe twice before I had high expectations for there Asia program and my expectations were exceeded!

The trip had such a huge mix of big cities like Kuala Lumpur and Bangkok to the smaller areas of Penang and Langkawi!

Penang is such a quirky, hippy city that provides so much culture and incredible street art and delicious street food. It’s the type of place where anything goes!

Langkawi was a lovely escape with beautiful beaches and great market shops to pick up lots of bargains and find those hidden treasures.
It also provides endless amount of water sports and various activities to suit everyone.

We were also lucky enough to experience places more ‘off the beaten track’. The Cameron highlands in Malaysia offered amazing scenery with acres of tea plantations which is very famous in this area

My highlight of the whole trip was the Khao Sok National Park in Thailand. To be able to say that I have stayed in tree house style accommodation with the jungle surrounding you and waking up to monkeys on your door step is quite remarkable and like nothing I have ever done.
A day trip to the amazing Cheow Lan lake within the National park provided so many ‘wow’ moments and memories that will last a life time! The limestone pillars dotted all around and on the lake make it a perfect spot for those iconic pictures.

The thai people also made the experience what it was, they go out of their way to make sure you are catered for and their smiling faces 24/7 are so welcoming.

To find out more, email Bec on Rebecca@travelaffare.com.au

In December 2016, I had the amazing opportunity to visit the United States with my husband and three children.
Our first stop was Orlando, Florida and the Disney’s All Stars Music Resort. I could not fault this family friendly hotel for cleanliness and exceptional customer service.
Disney World was amazing and I would thoroughly recommend booking Fast Passes through the My Disney Experience App before leaving home to experience as much as you can in the 4 parks. Universal was also fantastic accommodating the younger and older children for fun and excitement.
After a tour of NASA , also a must do, we headed up to New York. Watching the landscape turn to snow white as we descended in to NYC is something I’ll never forget.
The New York Marriott Marquis is the perfect hotel for quality and location situated right on Times Square. This city lived up to all expectations. Walking down 5th Avenue, floating on the Hudson River admiring the Statue of Liberty or gazing over the city on the top of the Empire State Building are just a few of the experiences we had in the city that never sleeps.
Four weeks in the US is definitely not long enough and we can’t wait to one day return to this amazing country.

I was recently fortunate enough to win 2 x Business class tickets with QATAR to anywhere in the world through a top sellers promotion.

My husband and I chose Italy as our destination.

Experiencing business class with QATAR was brilliant – I could not fault their service, food, comfort or entertainment.

We had a night in Doha which was really worthwhile. We stayed at the Souq Waqif Boutique Hotels, which was a very interesting collection of 9 upmarket hotels located throughout the Souq. I love this sort of accommodation as it is unique to the area and not your stock standard Hilton etc.
On our full day in Doha we did a morning city tour which was fascinating to see the development in such a short time. In the afternoon we went on a Dune safari out to the Inland sea (which was Hot!!) a great day.

During our stay in Italy we visited Rome, Venice and Manarola in the Cinque Terre. All very beautiful, but also very different,adding variety to our holiday experiences.

In Venice we stayed at the Liassidi Palace. This was beautiful. Great location, very friendly staff and good sized rooms – a novelty in Venice!! We did the obligatory gondola ride, although our driver was not the image I had in mind!!

The Cinque Terre was a real highlight for me. I loved the walks (even though some were more difficult than I had expected!!) We chose to stay in Manarola, one of the 5 villages to immerse ourselves in the way of life for a short time. This was a great choice and we had a lovely, recently renovated hotel (also a novelty in Italy)

Rome is such a historians paradise – an ancient church or ruins around every corner. We loved just wandering the streets aimlessly to see what we would stumble on next.
If we didn’t overdose on delicious Gelati, I’m sure I would not have bought home so much “excess baggage”

We had a lovely holiday and would love to help anyone plan their next “Italian Adventure”

To find out more, email Lyndall on lyndall@travelaffare.com.au

For most of July and August I was lucky enough to spend almost 6 weeks in Spain, with a bit of time also spent in Portugal and Morocco.
Spain is one the most beautiful countries I have been to. The people are friendly, the cities are clean and tidy and the lively atmosphere is contagious.

I was fortunate enough to tick a large majority of Spain off my bucket list from the bigger cities of Madrid, Barcelona and Valencia to the smaller towns of Granada, Seville and Toledo which all had their differences and special charm that have created life long memories. The adventure and memories continued to the coastal town of San Sebastian where I ate my body weight Pintxos, which the region is famous for.

The beautiful beaches didn’t stop in San Sebastian and as I soon found out when reaching the Balearic Islands. The group of islands sit on the east coast of Spain and include Ibiza, Mallorca and Menorca. A must when visiting the island of Ibiza is to take a 40 minute ferry to the Island of Formentera, I was left speechless by the crystal clear blue waters.

Morocco provided plenty of cultural experiences and lots of history in Fes, Marrakesh and Tangier, which were the three main places I visited.
Portugal was unfortunately only a brief visit but Lisbon, Sintra and Cascais provided plenty of charm and culture with much more of the country still to be discovered when I return.

Spain is such a special country and somewhere I would recommend for everyone to visit at least once in their life. It’s an experience I won’t forget in a hurry but would return in a heartbeat.

To find out more, email Bec on Rebecca@travelaffare.com.au