Travel Blog

Food, food, food! That’s what it’s all about. I’ve just returned from my most recent trip to Australia, and I had a great time exploring Melbourne’s famous culinary scene! Below are my recommendations for your stay in Melbourne. Melbourne’s graffiti-covered laneways make for great photo ops! Within the CBD Restaurants: There are a few favorites, Read More…

Scuba diving in the Great Barrier Reef. Image: Tourism Queensland The Great Barrier Reef is the world’s largest reef system and a bucket list destination for many of our clients! This spectacular destination is perfect for snorkeling or diving. There are even several options for travelers who want to see the miraculous, colorful marine life Read More…

Did you know New Zealand is actually made up of two small islands? The North Island and the South Island both offer an incredible variety of landscapes and experiences for New Zealand vacations, but their characters are a little different. The North Island is warmer, with more beaches and a stronger Maori cultural presence. You’ll Read More…

My husband and I are avid international golfers, so we love hitting the links together to enjoy some friendly competition and a beverage or two on the course. But I know for many of my clients, this isn’t always the case. What I tend to see with couples is one golf fanatic and one partner Read More…

Hello, everyone! I just returned from my third trip to New Zealand. I was lucky enough to travel for 3 weeks throughout the country with my parents. And while I know that places like Queenstown, Rotorua, and Auckland are the headliners in New Zealand, some of the smaller, off-the-beaten-path places are oozing with Kiwi charm. Read More…

Is a Great Barrier Reef dive on your bucket list? As of June 2017, a new law in the state of Queensland may affect you. This safety law requires a Dive Medical for Great Barrier Reef divers with certain health conditions, whether they’re certified or doing an intro dive. The law does not apply to Read More…

Guest post from Janine Duffy – Director of Marketing & Wildlife Research, Echidna Walkabout (Melbourne) Koalas are so cute, they could be mythical creatures. Maybe that’s why there are so many popular myths about them. In honor of Wild Koala Day, coming May 3, here are 5 myths about koalas, debunked. 1. Koalas are drunk Read More…

With 1.2 billion people, India offers incredible diversity through cityscapes, rural life, historical sites, rich food, varied religions, and handicrafts. The first associations with India are often the Taj Mahal, the vast difference between rich and poor, and food usually consisting of curry that leads to tummy aches. But I am here to tell you Read More…

How do you know if your resort is all inclusive—or if it should be? Resorts in Fiji, Tahiti, and other South Pacific island destinations are typically half board, full board, or all inclusive. Many people assume that all inclusive is always the best value for money, but it all depends on your location and your Read More…

Guest post from Janine Duffy – Director of Marketing & Wildlife Research, Echidna Walkabout (Melbourne) Slowly, the huge koala backed down the tree. Muscles across his back and shoulders bulged as he took most of his weight on his arms, his short legs braced against the trunk. He didn’t look around as he climbed. There Read More…

If you’re planning a trip to Australia, odds are you’ll want to visit the Great Barrier Reef. You can make this bucket list item extra special by visiting the Whitsunday Islands, where you can stay on the reef itself, surrounded by sparkling blue waters and colorful marine life. A recent poll of 10,000 domestic and Read More…

Between airport delays, crowded roads lost luggage, and packed planes, holiday travel can be a recipe for a meltdown. Maintain your sanity this holiday travel season with these ten tips from the Down Under Endeavours team. 1. Get to the airport early This may seem like a no-brainer, but you don’t want to be caught Read More…

Ia orana, everyone! I’ve just returned from 8 days in paradise in the islands of Tahiti. While December is considered to be low season and rainy season, the weather was fabulous. It was quite hot during the day, but you can just jump in the beautiful blue water to cool off. At night it cools Read More…

At this time of year, we like to take a moment to reflect on what an amazing year it’s been. We’ve witnessed the Cubs become World Series Champions, Ireland beat the All Blacks in rugby for the first time in history, and the long-awaited launch of our sister company, Africa Endeavours! We’re thankful every day for Read More…

I often get asked, what is the best way to see New Zealand? And I recommend always renting a car and driving through the countryside. One of the unique and fun facets of New Zealand is the mountainous drives featuring beautiful coasts, green valleys, small quirky towns, and locals that you get to meet when Read More…

The word “honeymoon” may bring images of white sand and beachside cocktails to mind, but it doesn’t have to be a leisurely affair. While many of our clients spend their honeymoons on island resorts in tropical havens, others want to add more adventure. After all, it is a once-in-a-lifetime vacation. If you and your betrothed Read More…

An important piece of Maori culture is the traditional Maori tattoo, or ta moko. This sacred art form was brought to New Zealand from the Polynesian islands and is a rite of passage for New Zealand’s indigenous Maori population. Ta moko are most commonly given on the face—the head is the most sacred part of Read More…

Last week, we showed you some of Melbourne, Australia’s best art galleries. But in Australia’s second largest city, there’s no need to go inside to see exciting artwork. Bold, masterful murals from Murale Design are put on public view in Melbourne’s laneways and alleys. Strolling through the streets, stopping at fabulous cafes and shops, and Read More…

Melbourne is considered the cultural capital of Australia, and as such, it has countless art galleries sprinkled throughout the city. If you have a free day in Melbourne, why not check out some of our favorite galleries? National Gallery of Victoria The NGV, as it’s commonly called, is the most prominent gallery in Melbourne, with Read More…

Is your family in need of ultimate relaxation mixed with adventure? If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten track, the Cook Islands have exactly what you need. Lay your feet in the beautiful white sandy beaches, breathe in the salty ocean air, and enjoy some time under the sun. The 15 islands Read More…

Last week, Down Under Endeavours was thrilled to accept the Luxperience Meaningful Award at the Luxperience Gala Awards Dinner in Sydney. Other honorees of the evening include Zanada (China) for the Inspiring Award and FBI Travel (Australia) for the Connections Award. The Meaningful Award recognizes “excellence in the preservation and protection of authentic experiences.” Needless Read More…