At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Close your eyes and picture your dream solo travel to Australia. Are you having a close encounter with a koala? Visiting world-class museums in Melbourne? Camping in a ‘swag’ under the stars? Flying in a helicopter above Uluru? Hiking through one-of-a-kind national parks? Enjoying an Aussie barbecue with the locals? Doing anything your heart desires? The possibilities are limitless.
Experience the infectious Aussie friendliness
Be welcomed by a classic 'G'day, how's it going mate' and soak up the laid-back Australian lifestyle. Travel at a relaxed pace in one of the safest and most friendly countries in the world. Be astounded by the diverse landscapes and wonderful wildlife of Australia. Enjoy great adventures, stay with local hosts at unique locations, create new stories, and make long life friendships.
A journey as unique as you are
Your journey to Australia should represent you and only you. Because we are specialists in the art of travel, you'll experience a bespoke holiday that is significantly yours. Are you ready to travel through Australia in a uniquely local way? Let’s put your dreams on paper.


Let's design your holiday together
We'll take the time to get to know you to match your fully bespoke solo holiday with your pace, your interests, and anything you desire. Combined with first-hand, local knowledge, you'll receive a mapped out itinerary from us - but the process isn't done until you are 100% satisfied. We take care of every detail, so you can focus on relaxing, rejuvenating and reconnecting with yourself and the world around you. Get in touch to get started now.
What do you get from us?
- Well-organised solo travel, designed just for you
- Small-scale accommodations run by friendly local hosts
- Carefully recommended activities based on your interests
- A travel tempo and driving distances that match your needs
- Ingrained sustainability in all facets of your holiday
- 30 years of experience in travel to Australia
- Peace of mind with a local network in Australia and a 24/7 emergency number


"When I travel on my own through Australia, I love sharing stories with the locals and enjoying dinner together. I arrive a stranger and feel like I leave as a friend.”
Andrew Morten, Founder of TravelEssence
Where can I stay?
At TravelEssence, we focus on small-scale accommodation with local hosts renowned for their friendly Aussie hospitality, because this is the greatest way to see Australia. A unique spot to experience the hidden gems of Australia and meet the locals. Enjoy a barbecue with your hosts after an exciting day of exploring, sit around the fire and share stories with fellow travellers.
A place where you arrive as a stranger and leave as a friend
Whether you prefer to soak up ocean views in a cute cottage at Airlie Beach, wake up to a homemade brekky in a quirky bed & breakfast in Melbourne, or sleep under the stars in the Outback. Experience unique accommodations that become an unforgettable part of your journey.


What can I see and do?
With the diversity of Australia, you can see and do just about anything your heart desires. From the adventures in the Outback to exploring the tropical Top End, and snorkelling the sparkling Great Barrier Reef. Discover the hidden gems of Sydney and Melbourne with a local guide or conquer the Great Ocean Road. Explore tropical islands, vineyards, vibrant cities, white-pearled beaches, and beyond.
Enjoy once-in-a-lifetime activities and connect with the locals
Don't waste your time with tourist traps! Let your travel specialist know your interests and they will advise you on what is best for you as a traveller. We can take care of every detail, so you just have to show up and enjoy the new experience. There are private tours available as well as small group tours which offer a great chance to meet other travellers.


When is the best travel time?
Would you like to explore the Red Centre and marvel at the magnificent Uluru/ Ayers Rock? Lay on the beach on Fitzroy Island in North Queensland? Admire rock wallabies on Magnetic Island? Swim with whales in the Pacific Ocean? Hike through Cradle Mountain in Tasmania? Or cycle the city of Sydney?
Beautifully diverse, travel Australia at any time of the year
No matter what time of year you visit, there is always a large selection of beautiful destinations waiting to be discovered. Based on your interests and when you would like to go, your travel specialist can advise you on the best time to travel and the best regions to visit.


How long do I need in Australia?
Australia is one of the biggest countries in the world. You could spend months travelling the ever-changing landscape and not see the same place twice. For your holiday, the question becomes, "How long do I have?". A great solo trip comes with enough time to truly reset and get into a new rhythm. When you don't have to rush or be on anyone else's agenda.
Travel at a relaxed pace
We recommend travelling at a relaxed pace for a minimum of three weeks. Or, if you have slightly less time, your travel specialist can help you choose the best regions that suit your wishes. The more time you have, the more you can discover authentic Australia. Rejuvenate yourself with the fresh air and reawaken your senses in pristine nature.


How do I travel around?
Be enchanted by the beautifully diverse landscapes of Australia. From spectacular coastal roads to panoramic rainforest passes, and awe-inspiring wine regions - Australia is best explored by car. Self-driving means you're able to reach places that group trips and public transport cannot. However, if you prefer a car-free holiday, that is also possible!
Take advantage of our special deals and travel comfortably, complete with:
- A navigation system
- Air-conditioning
- Full insurance and low fuel costs
- Hire cars that are less than six months old
- Safe and secure roads
- A route with only a couple of hours between each location
- Discover off the beaten track places that motorhomes often cannot reach
Drive less, see more
A relaxed travel pace is the greatest way to see Australia. And your travel specialist will design your holiday with two or more nights at each location. Explore each local area and get the most out of where you are. This way you get to drive less but see more. Because that's what a great holiday is all about at TravelEssence.
If you are thinking of renting a campervan, talk to us now and discover why driving in a rental car is the best way to see Australia.


Great flights and stopovers to Australia
Flying is a fun experience on its own. Nothing else makes you truly feel like you are embarking on a once-in-a-lifetime journey than stepping onto the plane. A comfortable flight makes all the difference, no matter which class you fly.
Take advantage of our first-hand experience and airline connections:
- The best flight schedule
- The most spacious seats in each class
- A private HD display
- A good selection of food and drinks for the journey
- The best price
- Carbon neutral flights without exception
Take a break and enjoy a stopover
Depending on where you want to explore in Australia, you will fly into one of the main international airports, likely into Sydney or Melbourne. On your way, you can choose a stopover in Asia to break up the journey and add a cultural experience to your holiday. From the tropical vibes in Bali and world-class shopping in Singapore to the friendly locals on the Cook Islands and the cultural mecca of Hong Kong. The possibilities are limitless.


Sample itineraries
You're unique; your solo journey to Australia will be too. Take a look at some of our favourite trips to get inspired for your own journey. With holidays ranging from three to seven weeks based on various themes, you can change comfort levels, and add activities, rental cars, and flights to sense the possibilities that await.
Start your dream journey here
Bring your ideas to us, take advantage of our local knowledge, and together we will create your unique, personalised holiday that is yours and yours alone. Get in touch with us here.
Diana in Australia
I lived in Australia for the first eight years of my life. My parents joined the great post-war emigration in 1960… read more
Frequently asked questions
Specialist knowledge means the details that need specific attention are always taken care of - you don't have to worry about anything. But of course, you may have a lot of questions right now as you get an idea of the possibilities that await you. Find the answers to your questions here. Or contact us for more information.


Useful facts

Tourism can be great for the environment. With us, you make a positive difference.
Let's accentuate the positive, reduce the negative, and offset what's left.
Sustainability in actionWhy book with us?
When you book your solo trip with us, your travel specialist has only one goal: to create your dream holiday through Australia and to do it properly. Make the most of your time Down Under by choosing a travel specialist that has local experience and knows Australia like the back of their hand. We are travel nerds and from our first-hand experience believe that small details lead to big differences. Get in touch to make your holiday dream become a reality.
Ready for the holiday of a lifetime?
Discover a world beyond ordinary
At TravelEssence, we specialise in crafting custom-made holidays that take you off the beaten path and create memories to last a lifetime. We believe in connecting with the heart and soul of a place, introducing you to the locals who call it home. Engage in conversations with fascinating individuals who will share their stories, traditions, and way of life, leaving an indelible mark on your journey.
Contact us
We would love to discuss your dream journey