Inspiring Journeys Launch their 2019/20 Brochure in Sydney

Last week I had the opportunity to attend the launch of the Inspiring Journeys 2019/20 itineraries in Sydney. The lunch time event was held at 12-Micron in Barangaroo, a perfect setting on a perfect Sydney day to uncover these luxury small group journeys across Australia and New Zealand. The Inspiring Journeys team had invited about 70 representatives from the travel industry and media.

At the launch, Hans Belle, Managing Director, uncovered the range of carefully handcrafted boutique, small group itineraries across Australia and New Zealand, including four new itineraries. Hans spoke about the careful curation of the tours, down to the beautiful image of Lake Wanaka the team chose to represent the collection.

The event opened with a powerful performance by Rosie and Jeff from Tamaki Maori Village in Rotorua, New Zealand, a signature experience on the The Long White Cloud and the two other itineraries that travel the North Island. I have lived in New Zealand and never fail to be deeply moved by the waiata (song) of the Maori and the storming feet and fierce energy of the haka. Rosie, singing alone and unaccompanied, gave a note-perfect, powerful and passionate performance as she sung traditional songs. The whole room experienced goosebumps, her prowess was the talk of the event!

The haka, performed by just the two of them was awe inspiring and thundered through the room. It made me ponder that guests on Inspiring Journeys’ New Zealand tours must be totally awe struck by the larger performances when they enjoy a Hangi feast and concert at the Tamaki Maori Marae.

There is no doubt that people who choose to lead guided tours are unique people. Tour Director, Kyle Olsen, shared his passion for travel and history but what stood out was his deep love for sharing these journeys with others and making sure his guests had the holiday they had dreamed of. A true peoples’ person, his stories of really helping his guests have the best experience possible impressed. If every Tour Director has Kyle’s energy, care, knowledge, humour and dedication, guests on each tour will be able to relax and enjoy their journey, knowing they are in the best hands.

One new itinerary that I was particularly drawn to is the 7 Day Tasmania’s Footsteps and Trails. On this tour guests experience the wukalina walk, a two day walk through the Bay of Fires and Mt William area. A genuine cultural experience, guests are led by an indigenous guide and learn the stories and history of the palawa (a Tasmanian clan) for whom this region is home.

Walking at an easy pace over mostly soft and grassy terrain, guests spend the first night of the walk in comfortable bespoke palawa style domed huts. Immersed in the age old stories of the land and the people and learning cultural practises along the way, this is an authentic indigenous experience. On the second night of the walk guests experience the lighthouse keeper’s life when they stay in the meticulously renovated Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage at larpuna/Bay of Fires. What a unique and authentic experience.

The event closed with an equally warm and moving performance from Manuel Pamkel from Top Didj Experience. Manuel played the digeridoo and sang ceremonial songs. He spoke about how he loves to make the Inspiring Journey guests happy and to share his culture, stories, song and dance. So engaging and warm, I have no doubt that guests who meet Manuel will never forget him. One of Manuel’s many talents that he shares with guests is the tradition of Rarrk painting. Guests on tour create their own painting under Manuel’s guidance. Guests at the event came home with their own painting from Manuel, something I will treasure! You can meet Manuel when you visit Katherine on the 10 Day The Ultimate Territory Adventure in Style.

Inspiring Journeys is an impressive collection of small group tours. The itineraries are crafted meticulously by experienced industry specialists with the aim to provide guests with an immersive, boutique experience. Each itinerary is built on four pillars - Discover, Explore, Immerse and Relax - to give guests the perfect balance and flexibility to enjoy the range of authentic, enriching and immersive experience their holiday offers, with the opportunity to indulge and relax along the way.

These truly are Inspiring Journeys!