When: Wednesday 22nd April 2015, from 5:30pm for a 6:00pm Start
Where: Shoalhaven Ex Servicemans Club, 157 Junction Street Nowra
RSVP: 15th April 2015
My Travel Expert & Shoalhaven Solo Sisters
T: (02) 4421 5577 E: nowra@mytravelexpert.com.au
Author Archives: Jod
Exhibitor Intro : Silversea
With our Cruise Expo date coming closer we thought it was time to let you know of another one of our fantastic Exhibitors, the incredible Silversea Cruises. In their own words “Silversea’s small luxury ships are designed for those who delight in the thrill of discovery while indulging mind and body in the most lavish surroundings imaginable.”
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Three key-words to remember when thinking of Silversea are Luxury, All-Inclusive and Expedition.
Cruising to over 800 destinations across all seven Continents, Silverseas operates 8 small luxury ships that can show you the world in a far more personal and meaningful way. They regularly visit small, secluded harbours not yet on the radar, and their itineraries include many ports with late-night and overnight departures providing you with more time to experience the local colours and cultures, or take you on an expedition to some of the most remote regions of the globe, from Antarctica to the Kimberleys to the Galapagos.
Silversea are passionate about service and committed to maintaining the highest possible standards or service (and luxury) with a staff to guest ration of almost one to one that ensures that there is always someone ready to meet the travellers needs. The fleets open seated dining and speciality venues are renown for the culinary excellence and spirit of innovation. With (dependant on ships) a range of public areas to suit your desires from Libraries and Gyms, to Bars, Spas, Pools, observation lounges, theatres and more there is always something to do onboard. If all that seems to much you can always retreat to your cabin which all have ocean views, many with private Veranda’s, and all suites offer one of the highest Guest to Space ratio of any luxury Cruise line.
On Silversea Cruises their costs are all-Inclusive for the onboard stay with Ocean view Suites, most with private verandas, Butler service for every suite, all gratuities, select wines, spirits, coffes and soft drinks are complimentary throughout the vessel and the suites mini-bar is also stocked with your preference and replenished on request. Gourmet and In-Suite dining are also included.
Silversea Expedition cruises come with the same standard of inclusions plus complimentary expedition gear, all zodiac land and sea tours and activities, as well as onboard lectures by qualified experts including Naturalists, geologists and more!
Of course what we can show you and tell you in a brief introductory post is just that, a brief introduction. So for more information on Silversea, their ships, their destinations and their programmes, why not come down to My Cruise Expo at the Worrigee Ex-Servicemans Sports Club on the 17th March from 5pm til 8pm!
Register Your Attendance Today!
Exhibitor Intro: Adventure world
With our Cruise Expo coming up on the 17th of March we thought we would take a chance to give you some introductory previews to some of the companies that will have representation there. Some will be representing a singular cruise company, whilst others will be able to offer a wide variety of Cruise Experiences. Our first introduction is one of the latter – a company known here in Australia as Adventureworld.
Adventureworlds’ primary focus is on touring for the individual and through a well established network of overseas partners they can help the traveller enjoy sightseeing across Canada, Alaska, the USA, South and Central America, India and the Sub-Continent, Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Europe. As part of their product for individuals they do have a number of Cruise options available in their product.
These include a wide range of Inside Passage Cruises, not only with larger vessels run by Princess, Holland American and NCL but can also do more intimate cruising with a number of their Small Ship Cruises which cover a variety of Cruise Lines. More than the inside passage they can also assist with Cruises in the North-West Passage and the Arctic Circle.
In Asia they have a number of Vessels they contract with for Cruising the Irrawaddy, the Mekong, the Yangtze and of course the famous houseboats of Kerala and Srinagar, and the Junks of Halong Bay.
In South America they can help you explore the Amazon from locations in Peru, Ecuador and Brazil, and from Chile and Argentina they can help you explore the Chilean Fjords, Cape Horn, the Antarctic and the Cities of Southern Argentina.
Adventureworld is also the representative in Australia for Un-Cruise Adventures who are a fantastic company that specialises in expedition adventures that will get you away from the standard cruise fare.
Using smaller vessels designed for a more intimate voyage most of their vessels hold no more than 88 passengers. The trips Un-Cruise make can take you on voyages through areas like the Snake and Colorado Rivers, into some of the most incredible places along the Inside passage and around the Hawaiian Islands.
They have an incredible array of small ships and yachts that can allow you to explore some of the worlds most incredible regions , either on a single cruise vessel or through combining several voyages .. for example by combining voyages you could potentially cruise around Alaska and the inside passage for 21 days without revisiting a single location
Adventureworld also represents the incredible Star Clippers, a fleet of tallships that sail the waters of the Caribbean, the Mediterranean and around Asia. So if you were looking for a truly unique voyage these are an incredible way to visit some of the worlds most Incredible Islands, Historic Sights and Scenic Regions.
While it may sound like you would be “roughing it”the cabins are almost as well appointed as any major cruise line, you are severed several meals a day, visit incredible ports and if sitting back and relaxing on deck isn’t your thing there are a range of onboard activities, including helping the crew sail her if so desired.
So if you want to cruise some of the worlds most unique locations, in some of the most incredible vessels around, perhaps its worth speaking with Adventureworld to see how they can help.
So register to attend our Cruise Expo today! Just Click Here!
Australia is calling …
From cruising the Kimberly Coast, braving the the Bungle Bungles, touring Tasmania, seeing the Swan River, discovering Darwin and more .. there is always something to encounter within Australia. That is why we are having one of the Experts come down to give a presentation on some of the best ways to see the land down under!
If you have been considering a journey through Australia (or New Zealand) and would like to get some ideas from the experts then this is your opportunity. On the 18th November 2015 from 5:30pm for a 6pm start we will have at our offices a representative from AAT Kings to give us a lecture and film presentation on the Kimberly’s, Australia, New Zealand and what there is to see, do and experience across the region.
So, if you would like to join us on the 18th November 2015, just register on the below link!
Antarctica On Sale – 50% Savings Limited Time Only
Sometimes there are specials that come along that are worth us yelling about and this is one of them! Usually an Antarctica Cruise will start for most people at between AU$8000 and AU$10,000 per person in share twin. So when we have any offer come through that will allow us to drop that price then we are happy – and this deal, saving 50% is crazily good. So if you want to Visit Antarctica then Call us this week and book aboard a fantastic voyage and save yourself a small fortune! Please be aware, sailing dates and spaces are limited.
My Travel Experiences – 2016
With most of our 2015 programmes filled, its time for us to let people know again what we are doing in 2016. We have a fantastic array of programmes which are available to all travellers, and if you are a single traveller as always we can look at matching you up! In any event here are our fantastic Group departures for 2016, all of which will run with a minimum of 2 travellers, and which will be fully escorted with a minimum of 10 – for any questions, queries or to book aboard do not hesitate to Contact My Travel Expert
In January 2016 we have an incredible tour headed to Egypt – put together by our Middle East expert who has been handling groups into Egypt and the surrounding region for over 15 years, and knows all the little unique things that truly make a voyage here come together. Departing 6th January 2016, and covering Cairo (including the Giza Plateau), Alexandria (including El Alamein), the Nile (including Luxor, Aswan, Kom Ombo and Edfu) and Abu Simbel over a 14 day period. This tour is currently available at AU$6031 per person including airfares- call us now to Book aboard My Egypt Experience.
In February 2016 we are running one of our “Introduction” tours to Singapore. These programmes are fantastic for the first time traveller or those that are looking to combine some free time with some scheduled services. Departing on the 6th February 2016 this 9 Day programme combines a perfect balance of visiting the highlights of Singapore, with free time available to getting out and seeing your own highlights, whether they be the shopping malls, the ww2 memorials or otherwise. This tour is currently available at AU$2888 per person share twin including airfares – call us now to book aboard My Singapore Encounter
In May 2016 we are setting out for a truly unique trip as we encounter the “Sounds Of The South”, visiting the country Music Capital, then onto Memphis – home of legendary Rockstar Elvis, plus music legends like BB King, Aretha Franklin and Justin Timberlake. In Memphis the highlight of our trip starts as we board the American Queen and take a stately steamboat cruise down to New Orleans in traditional southern style, enjoying the robust history of the South and the sounds of Rhythm, Blues, Dixie and Soul. This tour starts in Atlanta on the 18th May 2016 and is available from AU$10095 per person twin share plus airfare – call us now to book aboard My Mississippi Experience.
We voyage to the Dark Continent in June 2016, setting out on a tailored programme to capture the best of Kenya and Tanzania, visiting the Serengeti, the Masai Mara, Amboseli, Ngorongoro, the Salt Lakes and more. Combining lodges with Hotels, Tented Camps and Farmstays this trip will be a truly unique way to visit Africa. Departong the 4th June 2016, this programme runs 10 Days Sydney to Sydney from AU$9630 per person share twin including airfares – to book aboard My African Experience call us today!
Leaving Paris on the 21st of August we have a fantastic combination Cruise that will journey along the Rhine and Rhone Rivers, starting in Paris and travelling south to Switzerland, where we change ships and then cruise down to Nice. This progeamme covers an incredible array of historic, cultural, natural and culinary sights and is the perfect way for someone to explore Southern France. Available from AU$11095 per person share twin plus air we recommend that you call us today for more information on My Rhine and Rhone Experience
There are few countries out there with such an incredible blend of cultures and histories as can be found in Morocco. Departing on the 10th September 2016 we head out to visit the Imperial Cities of Morocco – Casablanca, Marrakech, Fez, Erfound, Ouzzazarte, combined with a desert experience and a look at some of the counties most unique sights and locations. At 18 Days Sydney to Sydney this programme is available from AU$6010 per person share twin including air, to book aboard My Morrocan Experience please contact us.
Most people these days have heard of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and some have even been lucky enough to experience these cities. Few though have considered the country beyond these cities – which is exactly what this tour encompasses. Combining the two major cities this tour takes you out along the old Spice route, enjoying Al Ain, the Musandaum Mountains, Hatta and the Desert. Starting at AU$6875 per person share twin including air, this programme is a truly fantastic way to visit the United Arab Emirates and get a taste of more than just the Modern Metropoli. To book aboard or for more information on My UAE Encounter please contact us!
While not in 2016, our first set tour for 2017 will be a journey through Vietnam, ending up in Saigon over TET (Vietnamese New Year) when the streets are filled with flower displays and festivities, and will be followed by a voyage on the Mekong up to Cambodia ending in Siem Reap – the home of the ancient city of Angkor Wat. Departing Hanoi on February 3rd, this programme is available from AU$6495 per person share twin plus air – for more details on My Vietnam and Mekong Experience please contact My Travel Expert!
Experience the Sounds of the South in 2016
In 2016 we are heading off to the USA for a truly unique cultural experience, and while we are waiting for the dates to be set (due to sailings with the American Queen Steamboat Company), now is the best time to secure your space aboard.
From the bustling Modern City of Altanta to New Orleans, the heart of the South, this programme takes in the best of Tennessee and Louisiana, combining the culinary tastes of Cajun, Creole and Classic America with the sounds of Country, Rock, Jazz, Blues, Dixie and Soul.
For over a century the Mississippi and its Tributaries have been a source of life, work, war and culture in the United States. With a combination of Coach Touring and River Cruising this trip takes in the best sights of the Mississippi and surrounds, and covers a wide base of American History, from Slavery to Music, from Mark Twain to the War of Independence.
So if the though of culture, cuisine, history and great music sound appealing, this may just be the trip for you ..
The Sounds of the South Tour is currently in “Pre-sale”, which means we are waiting for dates and prices to be set, but where by placing down a holding deposit of AU$250 per person, you can ensure that when prices launch you will have guaranteed access to the best available prices including companion fares, cabin upgrades and more.
Running this departure in conjunction with the American Steamboat Company and Evergreen Tours, we are able to assure you that we will have one of the most inclusive possible programmes where even the hassle of learning how to handle tipping and gratuities is mostly taken care of.
So read on for a look at what we expect to experience and cover during this 14 day programme.
Pre-Cruise Tour:
Before we head off on the cruise portion of the trip we start by covering a dew places not easily reached within a day tour of the Mississippi and well worth incorporating into a tour based around the musical history of the USA. This section of the tour starts with an overnight in Atlanta to accommodate guests arriving into the states before it heads out to cover two important music centres of the region ..
Nashville: Home of country music in the USA, we will walk Honkey Tonk Row, take a guided tour of the Ryman Auditorium, see Studio B, visit the country Music Hall Of Fame and much more.
Memphis: Birthplace and home to music legends, this city is associated with music legends like B.B King and Aretha Franklin to modern day chart toppers like Justin Timberlake. While here we visit the famous Sun Studio, “Gracelands” the home of “the King” Elvis Presley, enjoy time in BB Kings Blues Club, discover Beale Street and more!
The American Queen:
One of the highlights of this tour is the cruise aboard the American Queen, a traditional styled steamboat / paddlesteamer that will take us on our voyage from Memphis to New Orleans. With its decor set to traditional styles its a taste of American history as you cruise the waterways that inspired the tales of Mark Twain. With nightly entertainment reflecting the regional history and culture, fantastic meals daily using local produce to create authentic dishes of local cuisine favorites this is a fantastic way to explore the Mississippi
The Cruise will cover the musical highlights of Memphis, the historic landmarks of Vicksburg, the traditional plantation lifestyle in the South and more as we cruise on down to New Orleans, a boiling pot of cultural influences with some of the most incredible sights in the USA.
The rooms on the Queen of America, start with the Interior cabins on the lower decks working their way up through a variety of cabin types including Outside Cabins with display windows and Verandas to the Deluxe Suites with private Verandahs .. so there is something for everyone in the style of travel.
Interior Cabin
Outside Cabin with Window
Outside Cabin with Verandah
Deluxe Suite with VErandah
For a taste, a mere sample, of what the American Queen has to offer, we suggest that you take a look at the following video from the American Steamboat Company (people receiving this blogpost by e-mail will need to visit our site to view) …
Doesn’t that look incredibly appealing? At this stage, as mentioned before, we are waiting for dates in 2016 to be set, but on a similar trip with Evergreen in 2015 you would be looking at a cost of AU$8895 plus airfares, based on per person in share twin starting with the interior cabins. So far it is expected that 2016 prices will be similar, with some variance to be allowed for currency fluctuations and possible rate increases.
Join Us and Discover the Sounds Of The South
The last century has seen a plethora of music styles emerge, from Pop and Disco, to Rock and Grunge, and beyond. Many of these music phenomena have “heartlands”in the states, and that is what this tour is all about. We begin our journey in Atlanta moving onto Tennessee, the heart of Country Music in the USA, then we journey to the home of the King of Rock and Roll in Memphis from which we journey down the Mississippi to New Orleans – a voyage through the homeland of Dixie, Jazz, Blues and Soul!
Outside Cabin with Window
Deluxe Suite with VErandah
Interior Cabin
Outside Cabin with Verandah
We don’t just bus you to all these places though – we are going to take you down the Mississippi in Style aboard a traditional old style paddlesteamer, with onboard entertainment, daily tours and more – a truly authentic taste of the South.
So if this sounds like a fantastic trip, why not join us at our Travel Expose – A Film Night, on the 22nd April where we will be talking about this trip and more with our industry partners!
My Egypt Experience
What a fantastic response we’ve had from the initial interest groups for Egypt, looks like this may be one of our more popular trips yet! As it should be I say!
At AU$6031 per person inclusive of flights from Sydney this tour takes in the Highlights of Egypt from the sights of the Giza Plateau to the Old Town of Cairo, from mediterranean metropolis of Alexandria to the Commonwealth Wargraves of El Alemein, not to mention a Nile Cruise from Luxor to Aswan taking in the highlights of the Nile including Abu Simbel!
For more information please take a look at our full itinerary here! Or contact us at My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters
For those that want a glimpse of what will be seen, then perhaps this will tempt you…
Singapore Workshop – Last Chance To Sign Up!
If you would like to travel with My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters to Singapore in February 2016, now is the last chance to register for our workshop (being held 4 February 2015) to allow you to get a say in what will be seen and covered during the trip.
Breakfast with the Oragutans, High Tea at the Raffles, the Murals at Changi Chapel, Fort Siloso, Sentosa Island, Shopping on Orchard Road and more! Singapore has something for everyone, and if you have never considered it at a destination before, then perhaps now is the time to give it a go.
Want To Attend Our Workshop?
Register Here!
Discover Egypt – Or See If You Want To!
Have you ever wanted to Discover Egypt? In January 2016 My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters will be leading a fantastic journey through the highlights of Egypt including those to be seen in Cairo and Alexandria and along the Nile from Luxor to Aswan. Should you want more information we urge you to join our evening workshop on the 14th January 2015 – just call or email us or register online here!
We will be running through our proposed site visits, rough itinerary and pricing, inclusions and details as well as receiving your feedback on what you would like to see that we may not be thinking of – be it the Old Palaces in Cairo or Wadi Natrun as examples.
Register now online, call us on (02) 4421 5577 or email daniel@mytravelexpert.com.au
Spaces are Limited!
My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters 