Three Extraordinary Travel Brands, Two Events, One Very Excited Travel Agent

Tomorrow and Wednesday, xtravel is hosting client events with three suppliers I rate highly: Viking, Wendy Wu Tours and Journey Beyond Rail. Each one does something distinctive and does it very well, and I can't wait for you to hear from them directly.

Tuesday 22 September: Queenstown Country Club

Light bites from 10am, presentations from 10:45am

Wednesday 23 September: xtravel HQ

Light bites from 10am, presentations from 10:45am

If you're thinking about your next big trip, come along, grab something to eat and meet the people behind these journeys.

Viking: destination-focused cruising, done thoughtfully

Viking has built its name on the idea that a cruise should be about where you're going, not just the ship you're on. Their river and ocean voyages are designed for curious travellers, with a strong focus on culture, history and local experiences in every port.

What sets Viking apart is the thoughtful, uncluttered onboard experience. Their ships are elegant and Scandinavian in design, an adults-only environment keeps things calm and relaxed, and there are no casinos and no crowds. A lot is included in the fare, including guided shore excursions, so there's less to work out and fewer surprises once you're on board. If you've ever wanted to glide through Europe's waterways or explore further afield by sea without the chaos of a mega-ship, Viking is well worth a look.

Wendy Wu Tours: Asia through the eyes of the experts

Asia is one of the most rewarding regions in the world to explore, and one of the easiest to get wrong without the right guidance. Wendy Wu Tours has made Asia its specialty, and that depth of knowledge shows in every itinerary.

Their strength is pairing the must-see icons with the authentic cultural moments that make a trip memorable, all led by knowledgeable local guides who bring the places to life. The logistics are handled, the pacing is well judged, and you get to focus on the experience. Whether it's the temples and cities of China, the flavours of Vietnam, the colour of India or somewhere further afield, Wendy Wu Tours is a superb way to see Asia with confidence.

Journey Beyond Rail: Australia's most iconic journeys

There's nothing quite like crossing a continent by train. Journey Beyond Rail operates some of Australia's most legendary rail experiences, including The Ghan, the Indian Pacific and the Great Southern, taking you through remote landscapes that most travellers never see.

The appeal is the slow, immersive pace. You can watch the outback unfold from your window, enjoy regional food and wine, and step off the train for guided excursions to places that are hard to reach any other way. For anyone who values the journey as much as the destination, and for those of us close enough to enjoy Australia as a long weekend or a bucket-list trip, this is a standout.

Why book with an agent?

It's true that anyone can book a trip online. But a trip you've planned with someone who knows the suppliers is a different thing entirely.

Working with an agent means:

1. Personal advice. I get to know what you actually want from a holiday, and I match you to the right product, ship, itinerary or cabin category, rather than leaving you to sift through hundreds of options.
2. Real supplier relationships. I work closely with providers like these three, so I know the small details that make a difference and who to call when something needs sorting.
3. Someone in your corner. If plans change or something goes wrong before or during your trip, you have a real person to turn to, not a call centre or a chatbot.
4. Time saved. I do the research, compare the options and handle the paperwork, so you can enjoy the excitement of planning without the stress.

For my own clients, my goal is simple: to create trips that feel made for you, using the best providers in the business. Viking, Wendy Wu Tours and Journey Beyond Rail are exactly the kind of partners that make that possible.

Come and say hello

If you'd like to hear from these suppliers first-hand, ask questions and start dreaming, please join us in Queenstown on Tuesday or at xtravel HQ on Wednesday. Bring a friend, bring your travel wish list, and come hungry.

I'd love to see you there. And if you can't make it, get in touch anyway. I'd be delighted to help you start planning your next adventure.