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Australia-Journey Down Under • March 3-15, 2025 ~WAITLIST~

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

Australia, the beautiful island continent …

Embark on a captivating 12-night Australian adventure starting in vibrant Melbourne, exploring its eclectic neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. Unwind in beautiful Thala Beach Nature Reserve from which we’ll explore Mossman Gorge and the Great Barrier Reef. In Port Lincoln, we’ll relish seafood and thrilling marine life encounters and venture into Koala and Kangaroo habitat. We’ll conclude in iconic Sydney, marveling at the all this amazing city has to offer. This journey blends urban excitement, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences.

Overview

March 3 – 15, 2025

 Double occupancy ~ $13,895.00 per person

Single occupancy ~ $15,565.00

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Uluru pre-trip extension: February 28-March 3, 2025

Double occupancy ~ $2,895.00 per person

Single occupancy ~ $3,615.00

This journey is Sold Out.  Please contact Gabriel to be added to the waitlist via email: gabriel@thectpgroup.com.

Activity Level: 3 out of 4

You are an active traveler who loves to see things up-close and personal. You aren’t bothered by standing or walking for long periods of time (1-2 hours) and you can navigate uneven surfaces and easily climb into and out of different kinds of vehicles or vessels. You can handle the rigors of exploring the world in a hands-on way, even if that means getting up early or staying up late!

Highlights & Inclusions:

  • Round-trip airport transfers on main trip arrival and departure dates
  • Twelve (12) nights total accommodations in unique, boutique hotels
  • Pre-night registration for hotel in Melbourne, March 2
  • Most meals, as referenced in the itinerary, including wine, beer, soft drinks, water & coffee/tea
  • All transportation in deluxe, climate-controlled vehicles
  • Internal economy class domestic flights within Australia
  • Excursions and tours as outlined in the itinerary (subject to change)
  • Expert guides with passion and personality
  • Gratuities included for guides, drivers, restaurant staff, and hotel porters
  • Pre-trip documents with important travel information including “Know Before You Go,” luggage tags, and signature WOW! surprises
  • Assistance with air booking (complimentary for repeat “WOWees”; service fee of $75 for first-time “WOW!” travelers)
  • Basic emergency medical insurance
  • “WOW!” surprises along the way!
  • The experience and expertise of an experienced WOW! Travel Club team member for pre-trip planning and on-site escorting

Exclusions:

  • International airfare (fare will be quoted upon request)
  • Extra hotel nights, if requested
  • Meals not noted in itinerary
  • Incidental charges (shopping, spa, food and beverage not included in the itinerary, etc.)
  • Supplemental travel insurance (for trip cancellation, pre-existing conditions, lost luggage, trip delay reimbursement, etc.)
  • Housekeeping Gratuities
  • Fees associated with entry visa

**Itinerary Subject to Change**

** FOR OPTIONAL PRE-TRIP ULURU EXTENSION DETAILS, SEE BELOW MAIN ITINERARY**

Itinerary - March 3 - 15, 2025

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

DAY ONE – Monday, March 3rd – Arrival in Melbourne

You’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your hotel – the beautiful The Royce Hotel. Most flights from the United States arrive in Melbourne early-morning. We’ve reserved your room for the night prior, ensuring immediate availability.

After a rest, begin your Australian adventure with a private boat for a welcome lunch, enjoying Melbourne’s sights and learning about its history from a local Aboriginal guide. Sip on bubbles as you pass the sporting precinct, Central Business District (CBD), Botanical Gardens, and rowing sheds. Disembark for a leisurely walking tour of Melbourne’s CBD, exploring vibrant riverbanks, historic boulevards, arcades, laneways, Federation Square, street art, and boutique stores before returning to your hotel.

Dinner on your own this evening.

** When booking your international flight for the main program only, book the following:

  1. March 1: Depart USA for Melbourne (arrive March 3) 
  2. March 15: Depart Sydney for the USA 

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Lunch
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  The Royce Hotel
 

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DAY TWO – Tuesday, March 4th – Melbourne, Great Ocean Road

We’ll spend today journeying down the Great Ocean Road, meeting local icons, spotting wild kangaroos and koalas, and exploring charming coastal towns, national parks, and native forests. We’ll begin at a quiet beach with Lowell Hunter, a proud Nyul Nyul Saltwater aboriginal man and award-winning sand artist. Collaborate on a unique sand artwork using traditional foot movements.

Enjoy the Tea Rooms at The Lighthouse, visit Bells Beach at Torquay, walk through Erskine Falls and Teddy’s Lookout, and finish with views from Lorne Pier before returning to Melbourne. Lunch during our excursion.

We’ll enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel   Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  The Royce Hotel

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DAY THREE – Wednesday, March 5th – Melbourne

We’ll start our day with a coffee tasting at ST. Ali, Melbourne’s specialty coffee pioneer, then explore the South Melbourne Markets and drive through the F1 Grand Prix circuit at Albert Park.

After lunch, we’ll visit the National Gallery of Victoria (NGV) to explore its vast collection of over 75,000 works.

In the evening, experience another side of Melbourne with a special get-together with Orlando Marzo, the world’s number one cocktail barman and mixologist. Enjoy cocktails and tales of Melbourne’s nightlife with Orlando at a local bar, followed by a dinner celebrating local flavors and contemporary techniques. We’ll conclude the night with a post-dinner nightcap at an iconic speakeasy bar before returning to our hotel around 10:00 p.m.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  The Royce Hotel

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DAY FOUR – Thursday, March 6th – Melbourne to Cairns,  Thala Beach Nature Reserve

Transfer day – Today is a bit of a travel day with a flight from Melbourne to Cairns, then transferred to our spectacular hotel, Thala Beach Nature Reserve Hotel, a secluded eco-retreat nestled on a private headland between Cairns and Port Douglas.

Once settled in your bungalow in the heart of the tropical rainforest, we will regroup for dinner at the hotel with gorgeous views from among the treetops. 

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Thala Beach Nature Reserve Hotel

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DAY FIVE – Friday, March 7th – Thala Beach Nature Reserve, Mossman Gorge

We’ll begin the day with a Dreamtime Walk at the Mossman Gorge Visitor Center with a traditional smoking ceremony. Wander through the lush rainforest with an Indigenous guide who shares insights on traditional plant use, bush food sources, and cultural practices like making bush soaps and ochre painting. Enjoy bush tea and damper at the end of the tour.

After lunch, head to a secret location on the Mossman River for a private River Drift Snorkel adventure, combining swimming, snorkeling, and a rainforest walk in crystal-clear waters.

Dinner at the hotel among the treetops.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Thala Beach Nature Reserve Hotel

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DAY SIX – Saturday, March 8th – Thala Beach Nature Reserve, Great Barrier Reef

Today is one you’ll not soon forget – exploring the Great Barrier Reef! Immerse yourself in the northern frontier with a snorkeling and sailing adventure ideal for conservation-minded visitors. Perfect for swimmers with a spirit of fun, this full-day experience at the stunning Mackay Coral Cay is conducted sustainably. Lunch is served onboard.

Enjoy informative and entertaining reef presentations by qualified marine biologists, enhancing your appreciation of the fragile environment and understanding of the marine life you will encounter.

We’ll dine together at the hotel.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Thala Beach Nature Reserve Hotel

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DAY SEVEN – Sunday, March 9th – Thala Nature Reserve, Port Lincoln

Transfer Day. After breakfast, fly to Adelaide, then to Port Lincoln – the seafood capital of Australia!

We’ll settle into our home-away-from-home, Port Lincoln Hotel, then regroup for a dining experience guaranteed to be out of this world!

Tonight, we’ll enjoy a Seafood MasterClass cooking demonstration and dinner with renowned Chef Kris Bunder, one of Port Lincoln’s best-known chefs. At his home overlooking the Port Lincoln Marina, Kris will prepare the freshest seafood Australia offers, all paired with local wines.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Port Lincoln Hotel

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DAY EIGHT – Monday, March 10th – Port Lincoln, Coffin Bay

Today we’ll experience Coffin Bay’s beauty and world-famous oysters on a 3-hour cruise, learning about Pacific and Native Angasi oysters from local farmers. Don waders to get up close and sample freshly harvested oysters. We’ll explore estuaries with New Zealand Fur Seals and Australian sea lions, and marvel at the ancient geology of the Brothers islands.

After lunch, discover Coffin Bay National Park’s diverse landscapes, from rugged cliffs to serene beaches, home to kangaroos, emus, dolphins, and over 150 bird species. Enjoy panoramic views and local gin with the resident gin maker.

Dinner will be a five-course meal highlighted by a sampling of wines from the area.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Port Lincoln Hotel 

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DAY NINE – Tuesday, March 11th – Port Lincoln

It’s a day of nature! We’ll witness the endangered Australian Sea Lions in their natural habitat as they welcome us with somersaults and playful swirls. Swim with these gentle mammals and then relax as you cruise around Port Lincoln National Park, spotting Bottlenose Dolphins, White Bellied Sea Eagles, and Fur Seals. After a gourmet lunch, visit Mikkira Station, home to wild koalas. See how many you can spot – you may need two hands… or more. We’ll also see wild kangaroos, emus, and rare birdlife.

As the sun settles for the evening at Mikirra Station, we prepare an Aussie-style dinner surrounded by the sounds of nature amongst the wildlife. Enjoy dinner under the stars of the Southern Hemisphere… can you spot the Southern Cross?

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Port Lincoln Hotel

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

DAY TEN – Wednesday, March 12th – Transfer Day, Port Lincoln to Sydney

A city of iconic attractions and brilliant beaches, Sydney is a destination you’ll never forget. Sydney is home to must-visit icons like the Sydney Harbour Bridge and Opera House, but this Harbour City is constantly evolving. New rooftop bars, theatre shows and designer shops pop up at every turn.

After breakfast, we’ll transfer to the airport for our flight to Sydney. We’ll arrive mid-afternoon for check in at the Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection Hotel.

The afternoon and evening are yours to explore the city or stay in and relax after such a busy day.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

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DAY ELEVEN – Thursday, March 13th – Sydney

This fast-paced, exclusive Sydney tour will make you feel like a local. We’ll visit Bondi Beach, the Eastern Suburb beaches, and Dudley Reserve for views of Sydney Harbor. See the sandstone heads at the Gap, drive through Rose Bay, and explore Vaucluse and Point Piper. Pass through Paddington, Centennial Park, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the Royal Botanic Gardens.

We’ll enjoy lunch at a local hotspot before returning to our hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore or relax.

We’ll meet up for a wonderful Italian dinner together.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

DAY TWELVE – Friday, March 14th – Sydney

We’re all about art and culture today! Upon arrival at the Art Gallery of New South Whales, we’ll gather on the harbor terrace overlooking Woolloomooloo Wharf. We’ll experience the new world-class building, which opened in December, with a guided tour through three gallery levels, featuring key artwork commissions and architectural insights. The North Building tour ends with a visit to the Tank, a WWII fuel bunker turned gallery, showcasing Adrian Villar Rojas’ End of Imagination exhibition. In the historic South Building, explore the Grand Courts and 20th-century galleries.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy. There is no shortage of wonderful restaurants for lunch.

We’ll regroup for our final dinner to celebrate this amazing adventure together.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Pier One Sydney Harbor, Autograph Collection

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DAY THIRTEEN – Saturday, March 15th – Sydney – Depart for US

As they say…all good things must come to an end!

Today we head back home with a full heart of fond memories of our time in Australia. You’ll be transferred to the airport for your flight home.

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast

**Itinerary Subject to Change**

Accommodations

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The Royce Hotel – Melbourne

The Royce Hotel is a stylish boutique hotel that blends contemporary design with classic elegance. Centrally located, it offers easy access to the city’s top attractions, including the Royal Botanic Gardens and the vibrant arts district. With its chic rooms, fine dining restaurant, and personalized service, the Royce provides a luxurious and intimate stay.

Room Category: Deluxe Room

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Thala Beach Nature Reserve – Port Douglas / Great Barrier Reef

Port Douglas / Great Barrier Reef Immerse yourself in nature at Thala Beach Nature Reserve, a secluded eco-retreat between Cairns and Port Douglas. This 145-acre haven offers luxurious eco-accommodation integrated into the landscape. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, Thala’s Eucalypt Bungalows provide an intimate escape along private pathways through the lush forest, offering the ultimate in comfort and privacy to truly connect with nature’s beauty and tranquility.

Room Category: Eucalypt Bungalow

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Port Lincoln Hotel – Port Lincoln

Wake up to stunning bay views, relax by the pool, and savor local delights at Sarin’s Restaurant. Explore the Eyre Peninsula by day and unwind at Sharky’s Bar by night, enjoying Boston Bay views from your private balcony.

Room Category: Ocean View Balcony Room

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Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection – Sydney

Pier One Sydney Harbour, Autograph Collection, is a sophisticated waterfront hotel located beneath the iconic Sydney Harbour Bridge. Offering stunning views of the harbor and Opera House, the hotel blends heritage architecture with contemporary luxury. Its stylish rooms overlooking the water provide a perfect base for exploring Sydney’s top attractions. With on-site dining, a lively bar, and direct access to the harbor’s vibrant scene, Pier One delivers a unique blend of comfort, history, and prime location for an unforgettable stay in Sydney.

Room Category: Bridge View Room

Uluru Pre-Trip Extension - February 28-March 3, 2025

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PRE-TRIP – Friday, February 28th – Uluru

After being greeted at Ayers Rock airport, you’ll be transferred to the Sails in the Desert Hotel for check-in.

Tonight: Sunset & Bubbles ~ we’ll regroup to begin our adventure of exploring the awe-inspiring beauty and cultural heritage of Australia’s most iconic monolith, Uluru.

We will begin our experience at the serene Mutitjulu Waterhole, where the ancient stories of the land unfold. Traverse the historic Mala Walk, and marvel at the intricate rock art sites that offer a glimpse into the spiritual significance of Uluru to the Anangu, the local Aboriginal people. Stop at Talinguru Nyakunytjaku viewing area. Here, with an unobstructed view of Uluru and the distant silhouette of Kata Tjuta, we’ll experience the enchanting sunset. Savor chilled sparkling wine, a fitting finale to an extraordinary day, as the sun gracefully descends in the west, casting a golden glow over the timeless landscape.

Dinner will be on your own.

** When booking flights including the pre-trip, book the following:

  1. February 26: Depart USA for Ayers Rock (AYQ). Most flights will connect via Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane (arrive February 28)
  2. March 15: Depart Sydney for the USA

One-way airfare from Ayers Rock Airport to Melbourne included on March 3
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  No Meals
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Sails in the Desert Hotel

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PRE-TRIP – Saturday, March 1st – Uluru

We’ll kick off our day with a peaceful start, watching the first light of dawn color the rock formation known as Kata Tjuta (“Many Heads”). Enjoy a gourmet picnic breakfast set against this iconic Central Australian backdrop.

Next, take a guided walk through the impressive rock walls of Walpa Gorge. Learn about the fascinating geological history of the 36 domes that make up Kata Tjuta, shaped over millions of years.

Take a moment to soak in the stillness and listen to the wind (Walpa) high above. Be amazed by the sheer scale of the rock formations around you. The spiritual essence of Kata Tjuta offers a deeply moving and unforgettable experience.

Lunch is on your own, and the afternoon is free for you to enjoy. Treat yourself to a spa treatment or relax in the serene ambiance of this luxurious desert oasis.

In the evening, regroup for a sunset adventure at Wintjiri Wiru. Start with a short transfer from Ayers Rock Resort to an elevated desert path for a leisurely evening stroll. As dusk falls, arrive at an open-air theatre on top of a sand dune, the perfect spot to take in the view. Enjoy exquisite cocktails made with native ingredients while watching Uluru and Kata Tjuta silhouetted against the setting sun.

Savor a gourmet dinner basket that blends native elements with contemporary culinary artistry, promising a symphony of flavors.

As the heart of Australia sets the stage, witness the ancient Mala story brought to life through drones, lasers, and projections lighting up the night sky. The Inma soundtrack and Pitjantjatjara narration will help you forge a profound connection to the land and its living story.
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast & Dinner
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Sails in the Desert Hotel

 

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PRE-TRIP – Sunday, March 2nd – Uluru

Today, step beyond Uluru’s shadow and into the heart of Australia with the Traditional Family. In their hidden homeland of Patji, uncover ancient wisdom woven into the desert sands. Hear stories of resilience from a descendant of Paddy Uluru, witness their deep connection to the land, and learn how they thrived before tourism.

Ascend a private dune and feel the weight of millennia beneath your feet while gazing at Uluru and Kata Tjuta. Share stories with the Family, absorbing their rich culture passed down through generations. Watch the winter sunset paint the desert gold and rose, celebrating your immersion in the soul of Uluru. This is more than a tour; it’s a journey into the heart of Australia.

Lunch is included in this Aboriginal experience.

Dinner is on your own.
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast & Lunch
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Sails in the Desert Hotel

 

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PRE-TRIP – Monday, March 3rd – Uluru to Melbourne

After a leisurely breakfast, transfer to Ayers Rock Airport. Fly nonstop on a 2.5-hour flight to Melbourne to begin our main Australia adventure. Refer to the main itinerary, above, for full details.

** One-way airfare from Ayers Rock to Melbourne included **

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  Breakfast
WOW! Travel Small Group Travel  QT Melbourne Hotel

 

WOW! Travel Small Group Travel

Sails in the Desert Hotel – Uluru

Sails in the Desert Hotel at Uluru offers a luxurious retreat in the heart of Australia’s Red Center. This five-star hotel combines modern amenities with indigenous art and culture, providing guests with a unique and immersive experience. With spacious rooms, a refreshing outdoor pool, and an array of dining options, Sails in the Desert ensures comfort and relaxation. Its proximity to Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park makes it an ideal base for exploring the stunning natural landscapes and cultural heritage of the area.

Room Category: Superior Room

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