Greetings from Regional Victoria & Melbourne (AUS)
(57 Reviews)
100% Recommended
Dawn Thompson
Bremerton, WA
South Island New Zealand Travel Agent Specialist
“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula CoelhaRichGreetings!
I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand....
“Certain things in life simply have to be experienced” -Paula CoelhaRichGreetings!
I'm delighted to share my story with you, especially if you're ready to embark on an enchanting journey through the captivating landscapes of New Zealand. My travel odyssey spanning three decades has been a whirlwind of adventure and exploration, and I'm here to help you make the most of your travels.
I'm Dawn and my unwavering passion for travel and exploration has guided me along an extraordinary path in the realm of travel planning. For more than 30 years, I've been devoted to creating indelible memories for travelers who seek to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and distinctive culture of New Zealand.
Allow me to provide you with some concrete figures that underscore my commitment: I've meticulously orchestrated over 600 trips to New Zealand and Australia, each as unique as the travelers I've had the privilege to serve.
What distinguishes me from others is my commitment to staying at the forefront of the constantly evolving tourism scene in the captivating islands of New Zealand. A prime example of this commitment is my biannual trips to New Zealand, ensuring that I remain well-versed in the dynamic tourism landscape of these remarkable islands. Additionally, I'm proud to hold the 100% Pure New Zealand Certification, a distinction I've diligently renewed every year since 2007. This certification isn't just a decorative piece on my office wall; it symbolizes my deep connection with New Zealand and underscores my unwavering dedication to preserving its unspoiled beauty. Beyond being a mere business certification, it encapsulates my fundamental values and forms an integral part of every curated journey I create.
I share a profound, personal connection with New Zealand. It is not just a dot on a map; it is ingrained in my soul. The breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and warm-hearted people have left an indelible imprint on my being.
New Zealand, my true love. Its dramatic fjords, snow-capped peaks, and lush meadows are nothing short of awe-inspiring. New Zealand is a realm of contrast - a place where you can journey from glaciers to beaches in a single day. And speaking of contrast, did you know that New Zealand boasts more sheep than people? A delightful fact, and it speaks volumes about the vast, untarnished landscapes you'll encounter on your travels.
Now, let's turn our focus back to you. If you’re a seasoned traveler, you possess a treasure trove of life experiences, and you understand the value of truly unique adventures and I'm here to ensure that your journey to New Zealand is nothing less than extraordinary.
However, it's not exclusively seasoned travelers that I cater to. First-time visitors to these splendid lands hold a special place in my heart. I can vividly recall my inaugural visit to New Zealand, as if it were yesterday - the exhilaration of unearthing the unknown, the thrill of immersing oneself in new cultures, and the sheer wonderment at the beauty of nature. It's a sensation I wish for every first-time traveler to experience.
My mission is to transform your travel dreams into a vivid reality. Armed with my wealth of experience and expertise, I will ensure that every facet of your journey is meticulously planned, from the moment you disembark from the plane to the final farewell. I want you to savor every moment, relish every experience, and return home with a heart brimming with cherished memories.
Together, let's embark on a journey where every day is an adventure, and every landscape takes your breath away. From the rugged beauty of New Zealand's South Island to the diverse cities of the North, I will craft a travel experience that is uniquely yours.
So, whether you're in the prime of your life, yearning for new horizons, or a first-time traveler eager to explore, I'm here to transform your dream trip into a tangible reality. Let's create a journey as unique as you are, and I'm eagerly anticipating the honor of being your trusted guide on this extraordinary adventure.
Can Be Reached At
1-360-509-7676
Melbourne and Mornington Peninsula Australia
I find myself on a plane to Melbourne, and it's quite a surreal experience. As a travel agent, I've had my fair share of adventures, but this one is something truly special. We've chosen to stay at the Crown Towers, and from our room, we're treated to a breathtaking view of the city, with the river gently meandering through it. As if that wasn't enough, we have exclusive club access, and the check-in process was a delight in itself, accompanied by an exquisite espresso martini that set the tone for our stay.
The moment we entered our luxurious room, we were greeted with champagne and gifts, making us feel utterly pampered. Moments like these remind me of the true beauty of my job, and they make all the hard work so worthwhile. The bed, oh, the bed – it's the epitome of comfort, promising a peaceful night's sleep. I can hardly contain my excitement for the morning, as I anticipate the city unveiling its magic at dawn.
We awoke early the next day, and Melbourne did not disappoint with its notorious "four seasons in one day" phenomenon. We experienced sideways rain, brilliant sunshine, gusty winds, and more sunshine as we ventured out for a city tour with HiddenSecrets around the Central Business District. Melbourne's laneways, once just alleys, have now transformed into vibrant lanes lined with a cornucopia of restaurants, cafes, and shops. The diversity of people, food, and art in these spaces is simply enchanting. We also delved into the world of street art, explored a record store, and sipped coffee at the tiniest coffee shop I've ever seen. Later in the afternoon, we embarked on a journey through the city's public subway to Queen Victoria Market, indulging in more shopping and people-watching.
Returning to our hotel, we enjoyed tea in the Crystal Lounge, a moment of serenity amidst the urban hustle. In the evening, we treated ourselves to the spa, immersing in the healing waters, followed by getting dressed up for dinner and trying our luck at the casino. As I sit here, savoring our last glass of bubbles, I can't help but feel grateful for this incredible experience.
Our last day in Australia was nothing short of amazing. We left Melbourne and set out for the Mornington Peninsula, where adventure awaited. Our first stop was Moonlit Sanctuary, a haven for Australian wildlife. There, we encountered cockatoos, wombats, Tasmanian devils, koalas, lizards, spot-tailed quolls, wallabies, and kangaroos, even getting the chance to hand-feed them.
Our journey continued with a visit to a glass-blowing gallery and a wine tasting at Paringa Estate. A delightful lunch in a quaint town followed, along with a quick stop at the chocolate factory to stock up on Australia's delectable chocolate.
Our next destination was the Green Olive at Red Hill farm, where we had the privilege of meeting the owners. This unique stop featured cooking classes with farm-grown ingredients, an enticing line of beauty products, and exquisite wines. Our journey then took us to Moonah Links, where we marveled at the captivating ocean views.
Before bidding farewell to this unforgettable day, we made one last stop at the Bathing Boxes, those iconic and colorful little structures by the beach. We then headed to the airport, cherishing the countless memories we had made during our Australian adventure.
Australia has been an absolute blast, filled with unforgettable moments, unique experiences, and the kind of travel memories that stay with you forever. Thank you for joining us on this journey, and I can't wait to share more incredible destinations with you in the future. Until then, happy travels!