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Create your dream holiday to Australia and New Zealand

Plan an unforgettable self-drive trip with insider knowledge, bespoke itineraries, and places to stay that'll make you feel at home.

Car driving along the Great Ocean Road In Victoria, Australia
Car driving along the Great Ocean Road In Victoria, Australia

So, where do you want to go?

TravelEssence travel advisor Simone
Smiling Māori woman Maria wearing a traditional feather cloak and tā moko facial tattoo, welcoming visitors as an indigenous local host in New Zealand
Why travel with us?

Guided by local knowledge

No one knows Australia and New Zealand quite like our local experts and hosts. Based on your preferences, we'll create a trip for you that's filled with hidden gems and insider knowledge.

Inspirational trips

A world of possibilities

While every holiday we design is bespoke, these examples give you a taste of what's possible on your custom itinerary.

Kate and Richard testimonial video
Daniel and Deborah testimonial video
First-hand experiences

Stories from fellow travellers

Every trip we put together tells a new story. Be inspired by our customers’ travel experiences.

Modern glass house with infinity pool overlooking green hills and water at sunset.
Smiling indigenous Australian man with traditional white face paint and an orange headband on a tropical beach at sunset, Australia
Smiling couple wearing wide-brimmed hats in the Australian outback of Queensland, local farmstay hosts welcoming guests in a rural bush setting
Luxury safari-style tent on a raised wooden deck, surrounded by lush green forest and trees.
Our hosts and their accommodations

Exceptional stays, warm welcomes

For twenty years, we've been building the largest network of small-scale accommodation across Australia and New Zealand. Expect genuine hospitality and local tips you won't find in any guidebook.

Travel insights and advice

Explore the latest news

From our take on the latest travel news to practical tips and destination highlights, our articles are here to help you plan well and travel with confidence.

An illustration of a man on a boat, surrounded by nature, pouring water from a kettle into a cup.
Unwind on your holiday

Travel slowly, experience more

Our top tip? Don’t rush. Travel at a pace that lets you kick back and sink into each destination, enjoying the landscapes, the culture and the people. It’s the secret to a truly memorable holiday.

How we build your tailor-made trip

Five steps to your dream holiday

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Get in touchTell us where and when you'd like to travel, and we'll connect you to a knowledgeable destination specialist.
An illustration of a hand drawing on a map.
Share your wishesYour perfect trip starts with us understanding what you want from it. We'll take time to get to know you and your ideas in detail.
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Your itineraryYou'll receive a detailed route with stays and experiences hand-picked to match your wishes, travel style, and ideal pace.
Review and refineWe'll go through everything together and fine-tune your itinerary. Once it feels right, we'll start booking it all in.
An illustration of a calendar counting down to holiday departure date
Trip countdownYou'll receive your documents, and we'll keep you up to date with useful tips and advice, so you feel fully prepared for your adventure.
Your journey starts here

Start planning your dream trip