First-hand customer experiences

Real journeys inspiring stories

Every journey our customers take tells a different story. Explore Australia and New Zealand through the eyes of travellers who’ve experienced them first-hand, and see how TravelEssence helped shape holidays with personal moments, unique stays, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences.

A couple stand against a wooden beam smiling with bush and ocean in the background
A couple sit in a garden and recall stories of their holiday Down Under
Customer spotlight

Daniel & Deborah

Daniel and Deborah’s holiday Down Under was filled with hand-picked stays and memorable experiences, including an encounter with a pod of playful dolphins in Akaroa.

In their own words, they share how TravelEssence’s personal service and expert guidance helped them relax and enjoy every moment of the journey.

A group of people enjoy a drink in the Bungle Bungles, Australia
What our customers say

Rated 4.9 out of 5 by customers

On independent review site Trustpilot, TravelEssence is rated ‘Excellent’ — a reflection of the care, attention and first-hand knowledge our specialists bring to every tailor-made holiday.

Read our Trustpilot reviews

"There's no way you could arrange a complicated, stress-free trip like this without their knowledge."

— Phil Aspinall, TravelEssence customer

A couple sip champagne in front of Uluru / Ayers Rock

"A fantastic and beautiful holiday."

Catherine and Lambert in Australia

When we started preparing for our trip, we gathered information from several travel agencies and were given a lot of advice. However, it was our personal conversation with the travel expert and his local knowledge – regarding time, travel pace, activities, and accommodation – that was the deciding factor for us to choose TravelEssence.

Read Catherine & Lambert's story
A British couple pose for the camera holding a stuffed kiwi

"The perfectly crafted tailor-made trip."

Kim and Beatrice in New Zealand

We thank you very much for the well-organised and detailed itinerary made with love. The perfectly crafted tailor-made trip, which could not have been better, had a variety of unique and well-equipped bed and breakfasts. Thanks to all our friendly and compassionate hosts.

Read Kim & Beatrice's story
A couple take a selfie at a viewpoint of the Twelve Apostles on the Great Ocean Road, Victoria, Australia

"A dream turned into a reality."

Ruben & Deveney in Australia

One country with so much diversity, from fascinating and bustling cities to the beautiful Great Ocean Road, and the many stunning national parks. We snorkelled in the Great Barrier Reef and discovered another world beneath the surface. And of course, seeing crocodiles, kangaroos and koalas in the wild was truly amazing.

Read Ruben & Deveney's story

"They showed me things I would have never found on my own."

Marty in Australia

The first time I heard about TravelEssence was on the radio. The founder, Andrew, spoke in an ad, and he drew my attention. I looked them up, and a few weeks later, I had a very kind and knowledgeable travel specialist sitting at my dining table.

Read Marty's story
A man stands behind a bush with a glass of drink in his hand with Ayers Rock/Uluru in the background in Australia's Red Centre

"Our trip was exactly what we had hoped for. And even better!"

Monique & Jeannette in Australia

My best friend and I made plans in 2017 to travel to Australia, and that’s when we attended a presentation with TravelEssence. We immediately had a good feeling about the company, so we arranged an appointment with a travel specialist. They visited our home to understand exactly what we were looking for in a holiday to Australia.

Read Monique & Jeannette's story
A lady relaxes in a hammock in a wooden cabin with rainforest in the background
Kate and Richard testimonial video
Daniel and Deborah testimonial video
First-hand experiences

Stories from fellow travellers

Every journey is personal. Browse the stories of TravelEssence customers who explored Down Under their way.

Discover more stories
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