In a world brimming with travel temptations and wallet-watchers, our intrepid travel whisperer Ian McIntosh has once again rustled up a globe-trotting selection of sky-high bargains, grounded advice, and first-class editorial flair. Whether you’re plotting a posh cruise down the coast of Africa, fancy a discounted dash to Europe with Qatar Airways, or want a cheeky long weekend at a Gold Coast hotel without emptying your super, Ian’s got your back. With deals galore and a reminder that even travel legends check their fine print, this week’s roundup will make your passport twitch and your credit card tremble—with delight, of course.
QATAR AIRWAYS has released special fares to the UK & Europe starting from $1,839 return to celebrate the launch of Virgin Australia’s flights to Doha. Plus, fast-track or retain your Privilege Club tier with a 50% bonus Qpoints—book by June 30. The carrier has been named the World’s Best Airline for the ninth time at the Skytrax World Airline Awards 2025.
HELLOWORLD is promoting a 33-night Victoria Falls discovery, safari adventure and luxury Cunard voyage aboard Queen Anne priced from $11,999pp – a claimed saving of $3,000 per couple. Included are all flights, taxes and transfers. Departure is January 20, 2026. The operator is Imagine Cruising.
ATURA HOTELS invites you to enjoy up to 20% off stays between now and October 5, 2025. Book direct and also unlock a $25 daily food and drink credit. EVT Stays members enjoy an extra 10% off, plus you can book through June 16, 2026. Offer ends 30 June 2025.
IEXPEDITION is offering a 40% saving on its Sea Spirit – South Georgia & Falklands itinerary, described as the wildlife expedition of a lifetime. Cost is from A$18,777pp twin, A$13,197pp triple.
QANTAS is hot to trot if you are heading to New Zealand – but you need to hurry. Sale fares are available to Auckland, Wellington, Christchurch and Queenstown – but they end at midnight on June 25.
ACCOR is promoting the Gold Coast – After a day of adventure, unwind in an apartment at a Peppers, Mantra or BreakFree hotel, and if you stay for two nights, enjoy 25% OFF. Book by 31 July 2025 for stays until 30 September 2025.
From last week:
VIRGIN AUSTRALIA is celebrating a new era of international travel in association with QATAR Airways with a 50% bonus Status Credits for Velocity members. Flights to Doha have started from Sydney and will progressively be available from Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne. To obtain the points book by June 30, 2025, and travel between October 1, 2025, and May 27, 2026. Let’s hope Israel’s latest attack in the Middle East doesn’t spoil the party.
NIB TRAVEL, a primary travel insurance provider, is offering 20% off travel insurance policies. The end-of-financial-year special is available until Monday, 30 June 2025, at https://www.nibtravelinsurance.com.au. The discount applies to the total NIB Travel insurance premium when getting a quote using promo code EOFY20.
ACCOR has released several member-only deals – Save up to 25% on your next adventure of two nights or more across Asia Pacific, the Middle East, and Africa—book by 31 July, for stays until 30 September 2025. Three-night stays in Europe also attract a similar discount, and there are Fairmont Hotels & Resorts specials as well.
TRAVEL TRADE ONLY: The Travel Industry Club is featuring Silversea. According to Sue Francis, take up to a further 20% off the industry rates that you see marked ‘savings’ on our website until 30 June, or until quotas are filled. Check the 12 website pages and over 125 sailings.
Breakaway Travel Club is also offering Silversea specials, including Silver Cloud’s 16-day Kimberley Cruise departing Darwin and arriving in Bali. Departure is July 2, 2025. Or, how about Silver Cloud’s Kimberley cruise departing August 20, 2025?
Please note that conditions always apply to these specials. Check airline prices from your capital city. I recommend you use a travel agent, and travel insurance is essential. Finally, I make mistakes like all of us. Check websites to confirm details. Got a travel problem? Please send us details. [email protected].
By Ian McIntosh
