Blog Archives
Travelling At Your Pace @ My Travel Expo
Sometimes when we are eager to get away and see that dreamed of destination like Split and the Dalmatian Coast, or the herds of the Serengeti, or even just a night at the west end in London, we look for tours and groups that suit what we desire and come up empty, sometimes we just need to do it in our own time and at our own pace.
This something we can help you with as easily as we help put you aboard your favourite tour. If you have 3 days or 6 weeks and want to ensure that everything for your trip is organised then we can help. From rail segments, to hotel. From Flights to Transfers. From Sightseeing to attraction passes there are hundreds of opportunities out there for the traveller who wants to see and do it all without hopping aboard a group tour.
With partners like South America Tourism Office, the Africa Safari Co, Beyond Travel, Adventureworld, Wendy Wu Tours and Qantas Holidays we can organise tailor made travel arrangements to suit your needs. Whether you are looking for a privately guided tour of Mexico, or just a few days in London with sightseeing we can help you organise your holiday.
“It’s cheaper for me to book it when I get there ..”
Is something that we hear from so many people, and in truth it is a myth. While there are the occasional local specials that are available, a lot of local tours and prices are the same as what you would get by booking through an agency. More, if you book through an agency everything is ready and prepaid, you won’t have to worry about extra finances whilst on holidays !
“We didn’t get to see as much as we hoped for while there ..”
Is the other thing that we hear most from those that want to organise touring and day trips whilst overseas. As anyone can tell you, when you are sitting in a hotel trying to decide from pamphlets what tour to take or sight to see hours can slip by, availability may not end up being there, and time is wasted that could be better used either sightseeing or really relaxing. Pre-organising your touring not only saves you money, but saves you time and allows you the opportunity to better organise your trip away to do what you want.
South America Tourism Office, the Africa Safari Co, Beyond Travel, Adventureworld, Wendy Wu Tours and Qantas Holidays are amongst some of our best partners at helping to organise the best trips for individuals, that will allow you to make the most of both your time and your money.
So if you wan’t to get away on a private tour, or a free style holiday then this is your opportunity to talk to the experts all about it! Just come and see us at ..
My Travel Expo.
4pm til 7pm, 22 September 2016,
@ Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemans Club Worrigree.
Call (02) 4421 5577 for more information
Register Here For Quick Entry!
Red, Green and Black!
We have still had a few people having difficulty locating us, having gone to the old office, or other nearby stores. We are on Kinghorne Street on the outside of the Nowra Mall. So, to clarify, we are perhaps 200 meters down the road from our old location .. simply continue on past best and less to the traffic lights, look across the road where Telstra Business Centre stands on the corner and there we are right next Door in our flashy new Black and Green Colours! Just remember if you have pass HCF you have gone too far!
We are still contactable on (02) 4421 5577, though since the move our phones have been having issues – for which we are sorry! or by email on nowra@mytravelexpert.com.au . As usual you should be able to find someone here from 9 am to 5 pm Mondays through to Fridays, and from 9 am to Midday on Saturdays. So if you need to see us, or just want to place our location in mind, please feel free to stop by.
For those that visit our website to get updates rather than just reading their subscribed e-mails or RSS feeds it will come as no surprise that we have had a bit of a facelift, with the website now more reflective of the My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters branding – in otherwords, its very black and green. Based on feedback for the tours we have been planning and upcoming events we have seriously culled our group departures and will be running no more than 4 departures per year. These will run with a minimum of 2 passengers and will be fully escorted by one of our staff with 16 travellers. For now our 2016 and 2017 tour schedule is as follows ..
- May 2016: My Mississippi (see below notice)
- June 2016: My African Experience. A fantastic journey to take in the highlights of Kenya and Tanzania, run in concert with the African Safari Co.
- August 2016: My Canada & Alaska Encounter. An incredible journey through the Rocky Mountains and Inside passage run in concert with Travelmarvel
- August – September 2016: My Rhine and Rhone Encounter. Two back to back river cruises taking in the best of the Western European River Highlights, run in concert with Travelmarvel
- February 2017: My Mekong Encounter. A delightful Tour through Vietnam ending in Ho Chi Minh City over Vietnamese New Year where you then Cruise to Siem Reap along the Mekong, run in concert with Evergreen Tours.
- 2017, My South American Expedition. is coming, for a first look at this we recommend you contact us and reserve your spot at our 9 September film night, but be quick spaces are limited!
If you receive our regular updates and follow our blog, facebook, twitter or websites you will know that we have been organising a Mississippi Tour with Evergreen to cover the Sounds of the South, a cultural tour taking in the American Music Capitals from Nashville to Memphis to New Orleans, with some time spent aboard a traditional paddlesteamer. It is to our regret that the company owning the cruise boats – the American Queen Steamboat Company – has reallocated their ships in 2016 for a number of private charters, which means we are forced to cancel this programme!
Having said that, there is a similar programme being run with Scenic called the “Southern Belles & Mississippi Cruise”and if anyone would still like to do a voyage that mirrors our original programme then please feel free to contact us and we can give you details on the Scenic programmes.
Once again, My Travel Expert and the Shoalhaven Solo Sisters thank you all for your continued support!
My Film Night – 9th September 2015
Travel in Luxury, it is not out of your reach! If you want an all inclusive trip, with secure departures, filled with friendly and like minded travellers out to see unique and exotic destinations, they we have the perfect options for you with a pair of companies who have a broad range of touring options and usually have a great selection of exclusive inclusions and fantastic booking discounts for those ready to plan ahead …
My Travel Expert will be hosting an informational evening at our offices on the 9th September with a guest speaker down to talk with us about the amazing product range of Scenic and Evergreen Tours. From the majestic Rocky Mountaineer in Canada to the Incan Ruins of Machu Picchu in Peru, from Crusing the Danube in Europe to Crusing the Chobe in Africa, these companies cover the globe and have a fantastic array of unique product, exclusive inclusions on their well paced and suitably priced tours.
We believe in their product so much that we are running our Mississippi, Mekong and South American Group departures with them, so that we know, that no matter our number, our travellers will be getting the best service, the destinations that will leave them in awe, and the product that will leave them not just satisfied with their trip buy looking for more!
So why not join us and discover the world with Scenic and Evergreen Tours, 9th September 2015 at 28a Kinghorne Street, from 5:30 for a 6pm start! Just click on the green button link below!
Why You Should Consider Joining Us On An African Experience
While the above image is fairly typical of what most people expect to see in Africa – majestic wildlife, in surreal landscapes – there is much more to an African Experience than just the wildlife sightseeing – even if that will take up a huge swathe of our time. So what else is there to look forward to you may ask?
First we have the natural sights and locations. On our tour we skirt the escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. We wonder at the incredible lakes and their bird-life including Lake Naivisha, Lake Manyara and Laka Nakuru. We see the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara and the Serengeti where you even have the chance to take a balloon ride to get it all in perspective.We get a chance to see the unique landscapes of the Ngorongoro Crater and Olduvai Volcano.
Then there is how we rest at night. While we do have your usual hotel or two we expand on that and take in some of the best ways to encounter Africa with stays at permanent tented camps, some of which are better than local lodges and hotels, seasonal tented camps – located specifically to make wildlife sightseeing easier, and then there is the Ngorongro Farmstead a unique farm-style lodge that bring back tastes of regional Africa. The accommodation itself is part of the experience.
Finally there are the people of Kenya and Tanzania themselves, during our trip we will be able to see the modern cities, traditional villages and lifestyles, we will see Soapstone carving and visit local orphanages.
Wildlife, Stunning Vistas, Friendly People and a variety of accommodation – Africa is a destination with something for everyone. Should you wish to join our departure in June 2016, you can review the tour here, or contact us at My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters on (02) 4421 5577 or nowra@mytravelexpert.com.au for more details
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!
My Travel Exposé a brief recap!
Despite the weather on Wednesday we had a fairly good turn out for our Travel Exposé and Film Night! The Guest Speakers were as captivating as always, and the enthusiasm shown for some of the tours was absolutely incredible!
So what do we have upcoming in 2015, 2016 and beyond? While the above clip will give you a nice visual taste here is a full listing of what we have on the horizon ..
2015: Danube Cruise from Prague to Paris (September), Western Australia Wildflowers Tour (September), Kangaroo Island and South Australia (October) and a Bangkok Introductory tour with the option to Extend to Chiang Mai (November)
2016: An incredible voyage through Egypt (January), and Introductory tour of Singapore (February), A Indian Highlight tour covering their “Golden Triangle” (March), a cruise with Carnival to Tasmania (April), a fantastic feast of sound with a Mississippi River Cruise aboard a traditional paddlesteamer (May), a wildlife Safari though Kenya and Tanzania (June), a journey through Kakadu and the Kimberlys (July), a cruise to the discover the highlights of Papua New Guinea (August), a combination Rhine and Rhone river cruise from Paris to Nice (August), a voyage through the Imperial Cities of Morocco (September) and an off the beaten track journey of Dubai and the UAE (November)
2017: We kick off 2017 with a journey through Vietnam and then along the Mighty Mekong to Cambodia (February) with journeys in the works at this stage to cover South America, Scandinavia, the Trans-Siberian and more!
For more information contact us today!
My Travel Expert & Shoalhaven Solo Sisters
T: (02) 4421 5577 E: nowra@mytravelexpert.com.au
Preview, Plan & Prepare …
For your upcoming 2015, 2016 and 2017 Voyages with
My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters!
Join us on the 22nd April 2015 at the Shoalhaven Ex-Servicemans Club for a fantastic film night and Travel Exposé as we cover destinations across the world. From South Australia and Kangaroo Island, to Tasmania and West Australia here within our own great country. From Kenya and Tanzania to Egypt and Morocco. From the Rhine and Rhone to the Mekong and the Mississippi. Discover fascinating cities from Singapore to Bangkok and Dubai. A plethora of travel destinations and more ..
With Guest Speakers from several companies including the Africa Safari Co, Evergreen Tours and Travelmarvel this is your perfect opportunity to get some in-depth information on some of the best travel experiences out there!
Let Us Show You The World!
When: Wednesday 22nd April 2015, from 5:30pm for a 6:00pm Start
Where: Shoalhaven Ex Servicemans Club, 157 Junction Street Nowra
RSVP: NOW!
My Travel Expert & Shoalhaven Solo Sisters
T: (02) 4421 5577 E: nowra@mytravelexpert.com.au
My African Experience
It’s here! Our latest upcoming group departure! And this time its something really special! Africa
We are doing an amazing trip in June 2016 to Kenya and Tanzania, taking in the best of the national parks including Amboseli, Masai Mara, Serengeti, and Ngorongoro to name just a few. There will be the possibility of viewing the “Big 5” (those being Elephant, Rhino, Lion, Leopard and Buffalo) as well as other varied wildlife, and we will be using a mix of hotels, farmstays, permanant tented camps and seasonal tented camps. This trip is a fantastic way to get a taste of Africa and the wildlife that the region is so well known for!
For the current Itinerary and pricing please look at the full itinerary here!
Accessibility: It should be noted that this trip is fairly easy going, so if you were hesitating to think of Africa due to mobility issues, then think again, unless you are wheelchair bound there won’t be many problems – and even for the wheelchair bound traveller there are options available.
Accommodation: For the accommodation the properties being used are all very reasonable and have been chosen for comfort as much as location, and from what you can see in the below images the permanent tented camps are equal to many four and five star hotels and the seasonal camps are still amazingly well equipped – even coming with their own toilets.
So if you think you hear Africa calling, why not give us a call to register your name for this incredible journey!
Earlybird Endings, Kangaroo Island and 2015 & 2016 Recap
Just a brief update on a few of our specials which are changing, a new tour that is now pre-viewable under our tours section and a recap on what we spoke about at our 2015 Tour Launch and 2016 Tour Preview
Canada & Alaska, Europe Danube Cruise – Earlybirds Ending: For those still considering joining our Canada & Alaska or our European Danube Cruise departure, this is just a quick note to let you know that the Fly Free and early-bird specials are ending this week, and any bookings made after the 30th October will work out much more expensive. If there is someone out there wanting Canada & Alaska, we do have a lady currently booked and willing to share – just let s know if this appeals and we can help you set up a meet to see if it is a match!
Kangaroo Island – 2015: We have a fantastic group we are hoping to get away to Kangaroo Island in June 2015 (which is as early as we can secure seats on the Indian-Pacific at the moment), this 8 day getaway will cover Adelaide, Kangaroo Island and Barossa Valley. The Trip will include Gold Service on the Indian Pacific from Sydney to Adelaide, Transfers in Adelaide, Adelaide Sightseeing Tour, 4 Nights Accommodation in Adelaide at the Chiffley on South Terrace, 3 Day Charter Tour of Kangaroo Island, Full day trip to the Barossa Valley, Breakfast daily, five Lunches, Three Dinners and flight from Adelaide to Sydney inclusive of all pre payable taxes and surcharges. From AU$2781 per person in share twin, we need a minimum of 16 interested travellers to put this trip into motion and reconfirm dates.
2015 Tour Launch: You may have seen some of these previewed here already but we have a fantastic array of programmes scheduled for 2015 including the following trips! Red Hatters Moreton Island Cruise on 11 February, from AU$749 per person in share twin dependant on spot specials. New Zealand Golfing Holiday starting 7th March 2014 spending 8 days in Queenstown and experiencing 3 of the best regional courses. Canada and Alaska, Rocky Mountains and Inside Passage tour starting at AU$11423 per person in share twin. Kangaroo Island – details as shown above. Castles along the Rhine, a fantastic short cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. Danube Cruise starting 5th September in Prague and ending in Paris from AU$10570 per person in share twin. The Golden West of the USA from AU$5359 per person twin share starting on 21 October 2015 and exploring the Grand Canyon and more. My Thai Experience from AU$2400 per person in Share Twin, a perfect introductory experience for Asia with the option to extend in Thailand. Finally we have our Christmas Markets of Germany, with a 5 December Departure for which we are now taking expressions of interest.
2016 Tour Preview: We have an incredible array of tours we are looking to run in 2015 and would like your feedback to help us design the package that you would like to join! In January 2016 we would like to head to Egypt taking in the highlights of Cairo, Alexandria and the Nile. In April we intend to head to Singapore on another of our Experience tours. In May we are looking to head to Italy taking in Venice, Rome, Pisa, Florence, Umbria and Cinque Terre. In July we are going to look at a fantastic trip to East Africa taking in some of the highlights of Kenya and Tanzania. In September we are going to take in two countries with a heavily inter-twined history – Spain and Morocco. Then in late October we intend to help people explore the UAE, not just Dubai but beyond. In November we intend to head out and discover Vietnam, the North, Central and Southern Highlights. Then in 2017 for those that are interested in a truly spectacular adventure we will be headed off to South America. We do want your feedback and ideas on these programmes so feel free to contact us for more information and to ask whatever questions you would like. We will also be running future events and evenings that will look closer into these.
2016 Tour Preview – You Are Invited
As part of our 2015 Tour Launch we are also previewing the tours that we are hoping to run in 2016, which will include Egypt, Dubai, Singapore, Italy, Morocco and more. If these (or other) destinations are amongst those that you are looking to experience then this is the perfect opportunity to come along see what we are thinking of doing and add your perspective and feedback so that we can ensure that what we are provoding is what is wanted. Spaces are limited so RSVP today on (02) 4421 5577
My Travel Expert and Shoalhaven Solo Sisters 