Hello and welcome to our world of travel 'Down Under'.
Pages devoted to travelling to Australia & New Zealand with special travel experiences at the heart - created by Independent travel specialists
On our pages we bring a choice of how to get there, usually flying but yes you can sail down under either by the cruise ships or by cargo ships.
We bring you ideas for themed cruises, escorted touring, self drive adventures both with cars or motorhomes, wine & food – to sports such as Cricket, Rugby, Horse & Motor racing.
It can be very confusing as to what is the best way to do it or what gives you the best value for money holiday -
this is where a specialist like us comes in - remember we are independent and have your interests at heart!
so lets get started.....
Top ten reasons for visiting Australia
When most people think of Australia, they probably think of kangaroos and the Great Barrier Reef. That's all fine and well, but really the first thing that you need to know is that Australia is incredibly diverse and pretty huge.
How huge, you ask? Australia spans over 2.9 million square miles and comprises of 6 time zones. You're probably not going to be able to explore those 2.9 million square miles in one lifetime, so we've decided to help you out. Here are our top 10 reasons why you need to visit Australia.
1. Marvel at Australia's Sydney Opera House
A marvel of architectural design, the Sydney Opera House is widely recognised as a world class performance centre. Inspired by yacht sails and surrounded by water, the majestic curves dominate Sydney Harbour and look impressive from all angles.
2. Discover Uluru, the heart of the Red Centre
Deep in the heart of Australia’s Red Centre is one of the most photographed natural wonders in the country. The striking red monolith that is Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, forms the centrepiece of Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park, standing at 348 metres.
3. Visit the Great Barrier Reef
Did you know this natural wonder is one of the largest living structures on the planet? It is so vast, you can see it from outer space. This bucket list destination is perfect for diving, surfing, snorkelling and fishing.
4. Explore a nature's playground in Kangaroo Island
13 kilometres off the coast of South Australia and 30 minutes by plane from Adelaide, you will find Kangaroo Island, which boasts an array of native wildlife, some of which aren't found anywhere else. Known as nature’s playground, Kangaroo Island is one of the world’s most peaceful retreats.
5. Island Hop in the Whitsundays
The Whitsunday Islands in Queensland are comprised of 74 islands with beautiful scenery, each boasting endless white beaches and crystal-clear. From adrenalin-inducing water sports to romantic sunsets, Hamilton Island offers something for everyone
6. Take a ferry to Rottnest Island, home of the friendly Quokkas
The natural beauty of Rottnest Island is second to none, experience stunning landscapes and unique wildlife during your stay in Australia. Situated only 19km off the coast of Perth, the island offers visitors picturesque scenery and a rich cultural heritage to discover on a day trip or extended stay.
7. Journey on the Indian Pacific
Connecting the Oceans: The Indian Pacific is a true transcontinental marvel, linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Traverse the vast expanse of the Nullarbor Plain, crossing from Perth to Sydney or vice versa, witnessing diverse landscapes and captivating vistas..
8. The winelands of Australia
With some of the major wine producing areas of the world situated in The Borossa & Coonawara areas in Sth Australia, Hunter Valley nr Sydney, Margret River nr Perth & even Tasmania giving you the options of staying, tasting, and buying - some the best wines.
9. Watch turtles hatch in Queensland
Watching tiny turtles emerge from their eggs and scamper into the sea has got to be one of the best experiences to add to your bucket list. Witness this happen at Heron Island, a National Marine Park.
10. Embark on an Australian motorhome holiday
Witness some of the world’s most stunning views such as the stunning coral garden that is The Great Barrier Reef, the lusciousness of the Daintree Rainforest and the crystal blue waters of the Arlie Beach. On your Australia motorhome holiday, you can also immerse yourself in the beauty of K'Gari – a heritage site and the world’s largest sand island
For Australia & to see it all look at our Coast to Coast itinerary as an example
For New Zealand look at - the long white cloud
Top ten reasons for visiting New Zealand
When most people think of New Zealand, they probably think of incredible national parks, the Kiwi bird, and The Lord of the Rings. That's all fine and well, but really the first thing that you need to know is that New Zealand is incredibly diverse and unique.
How unique, you ask? New Zealand’s stunning landscapes and friendly locals help make the Land of the Long White Cloud unique. This is a place where something new will await you every day. Few destinations boast so many staggering natural wonders packed into such a small area. To help, here are our top 10 reasons why you need to visit New Zealand as a matter of urgency.
1. Diverse and Unspoiled Scenery
Made up of two main islands, New Zealand has an amazing range of breathtaking scenery, from beaches and subtropical forests in the North to glaciers, lakes, and snow-covered mountains in the South. There are also fjords, volcanoes, hot springs, and beautiful rolling green pastures, a diversity like no other place on earth. Cathedral Cove is one example of an unspoilt landscape, here you will find a gigantic arched cavern passing through a headland to joining two secluded coves, making a cathedral-like arch.
2. Remarkable Māori Culture
New Zealand’s indigenous people are known as the Māori and are an integral part of Kiwi life adding unique experiences for visitors such as visiting Tamaki Māori village, 15km south of Rotorua. Here you will find a recreated traditional village under the shelter of an ancient 200 year native Tawa Forest. Discover what traditional life was like for communities, learn about honoured traditions, food, and songs.
3. Home to some of the best wine
The temperate climate and soil diversity has allowed this country to produce some of the best wines in the world. Thanks to the oceanic climate, an abundance of sunshine and nights cooled by the sea breeze, New Zealand is very famous globally for its wine. Marlborough is the country’s leading wine producer, with many other wineries scattered around the North and South islands..
4. Unique wildlife
Birds, prehistoric reptiles, rare dolphins, and many other creatures call New Zealand home. With rare wildlife to discover, it makes the destination a unique wildlife hotspot. Kaikoura is one of the only places in the world where sperm whales can be seen year-round, known locally as the ‘Marine Serengeti’ this picturesque coastal town of Kaikoura is the perfect place for marine life encounters, coastal walks and tucking into fresh seafood..
5. Perfect self-drive destination
Picture this – waking up to a view of Rotorua’s geothermal geyser and being stunned by the beauty of the Redwood Forest. Enjoy having full control of where you go and for how long, take the road less travelled and make spontaneous decisions on a self-drive holiday. With clear signage, excellent road conditions and a gateway to the some of the most stunning views on the planet – a motorhome holiday in New Zealand is the perfect way to explore this gorgeous destination. You’ll feel right at home driving on the left side of the road!
6. Visit the home of adventure
Bungee jump in Nevis Canyon, the third highest bungee in the world, kayak the crystal clear waters in Abel Tasman National Park or Heli hike on the Franz Josef glacier. If adventure sports and extreme activities press all your buttons, then New Zealand is the destination for you. From sky-diving to hiking there is something for all abilities and ages. Located just off 23km off New Zealand’s Tutukaka Coast, the Poor Knights Island is an international icon, the clear subtropical waters are a paradise for orca and rays, stingrays are often sighted in the water..
7. Sail Doubtful Sound
Sometimes called the 'Sound of Silence', Doubtful Sound is the deepest (421 metres) and second longest (40 kilometres) of the South Island's fiords. Discover the breath-taking, pristine wilderness scenery of Doubtful Sound, deep in the heart of Fiordland National Park. Reconnect with nature and immerse yourself in the vast and untouched landscapes. There is no doubt that it will take your breath away, with no direct access, the only way you can get to Doubtful Sound is by cruise across Lake Manapouri and a coach trip over Wilmot Pass. Milford Sound or Doubtful Sound?
8. Stay in a luxury lodge
Experience New Zealand's finest luxury lodges from mountains to the sea, rivers to lakes, there is plenty of opportunity to experience outstanding landscapes and fantastic locations. Unique accommodation can be found at the Hapuku Lodge located in the whale watching town of Kaikoura, one of the most beautiful places in the world. This 5 star eco-retreat is nestled 30feet in the air, the tree houses sit amongst a native Kanuka Grove underneath the majestic Kaikoura Mountains.
9. Visit Middle Earth
Enter the Tolkien inspired world of Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit trilogies in the real filming location of Hobbiton. Explore the props and sets from the films as you hear stories from a knowledgeable guide as you immerse yourself in this fantasy world. The famous director of Lord of the Rings, Peter Jackson, is also from New Zealand himself. If you’re a fan of the trilogy, then you can can go on the popular Hobbiton tour, or you can visit some of the many free film locations around the country.
10. Safety
New Zealand is known for being one of the friendliest countries in the world, championing equality, cultural diverseness, and the overall laid-back attitudes of New Zealand’s friendly locals.
www.getdownunder.co.uk is part of Travelfox, an independent travel company based in Yorkshire,
We offer a range of holidays here in the UK and worldwide all fully ABTA and ATOL bonded through our partnership with
Thirsk Travel Center ABTA D365X and all clients monies are protected and will be administered by Thirsk Travel.
Founder and owner is Andrew Fox, backed by 40 years plus in the industry together with his small team, will help you choose and plan your special visit 'down under'.
We are based in North Yorkshire, Easingwold Nr York.
For a chat or to 'start the ball rolling' - Please telephone us on 01347 822541 or
Please note all prices shown are meant as a guide only and will be confirmed prior to you making any reservations.
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