Welcome to Ian McIntosh’s Weekly Travel Deals, where tried-and-true value meets a dash of cheek. This week spans the map: Holland America’s mighty 36-night Australia and Papua New Guinea voyage with flights and an upgrade, sharp savings on stays across Tokyo, Yokohama and Osaka, airline bargains from Cathay, Etihad and Singapore Airlines, plus eye-watering river-cruise reductions from Avalon—and seasonal sweeteners from Viking and Ponant. As always, conditions apply, prices vary by departure city, and prudent travellers book through a trusted agent and never leave home without insurance.
IMAGINE CRUISING has a deal with Holland America offering 36 nights exploring Australia and New Guinea from $7499 and departing Sydney on November 14 aboard Noordam. The price includes flights and a cabin upgrade. Details here https://www.imaginecruising.com.au/holidays/immersive-holland-america-line-australia-circumnaviation-and-papua-new-guinea/?fsource=ihccsoluspip&lid=t8uq51l2ppv0.
FAR EAST HOSPITALITY invites you to explore Japan with Village Hotels. Discover the vibrant streets of Tokyo, the charm of Yokohama’s waterfront, and the lively energy of Osaka and save up to 38%. The promotion ends 30 Sep 2025.
CATHAY PACIFIC and Hong Kong Disneyland Resort have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to unite two iconic brands and set the stage for exciting offerings that bring magic and wonder to travellers’ journeys. Also, check out the business class Early Bird Sale.
AVALON WATERWAYS invites you to book now and save up to $9,600 per couple. River cruise itineraries, including eight days from Amsterdam to Basil, start at $5624pp.
ETIHAD is offering deals if you have a lot of FF points. Guest seats are available in Economy, Business, or First using miles or miles plus cash. Head to Amsterdam, for instance, from 85,000 miles.
THE HENRY JONES HOTEL, right in the heart of Hobart’s delightful harbour, is 21 years old. To celebrate, take 21% off the cost of your stay between now and October 5
From last week:
SINGAPORE AIRLINES Early Bird fares are available until September 30. Fares include Singapore $847 (Economy) $3917 Business, London $1624, and London Business $8820. Check prices from your capital city. Stopover times in Singapore can be a drawback, and the business class lounge is best described as ordinary.
HELLOWORLD has United Airlines on sale – fly return to LA from $1022 – business from $7602. San Fran fares are similar.
RYANAIR has some great getaway deals if you are heading to Europe. Prices start at 24.99 euros. Book by September 30.
TFE eclub members can access a global sale at more than 100 participating hotels worldwide, including locations in Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Japan, Germany, and Austria. Brands include Adina, Vibe, Travelodge, and Rendezvous Hotels.
VIKING is celebrating Spring with free flight deals. Book a river voyage and fly free, or an ocean or expedition voyage, and your companion flies free. Offers end 1 December 2025.
PONANT EXPLORATIONS has released early bird savings for travellers keen to explore the spectacular Kimberley region in WA in style. The package includes a 10-night luxury expedition, return economy flights, one-night accommodation and transfers—book by September 30.
TRADE ONLY: Interline Travel has a series of Azamara specials if you are interested in cruising closer to home. Twin and solo rates are available. Itineraries include MEL/AKL—16 nights in January. There are 23 specials on offer through March 2027. Also, check out the deals on the AmaWaterways and Holland America programs.
The Travel Industry Club is promoting River Cruising in South and South-East Asia. According to Sue Francis, the rivers of South and South-East Asia are more than just waterways—they are the lifelines of civilisations, rich in culture, history, and natural beauty.
Remember, 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 to ianmac@travelagentupdate.com.
By Ian McIntosh
BIO:
Veteran journalist and publisher Ian McIntosh has spent a lifetime exploring the world and sharing its wonders. As the founder of Travelnews Australia, his nationally distributed, full-colour travel trade publication earned the esteemed Telstra Business Award. Though now retired, Ian remains a passionate globetrotter with a soft spot for small ship cruising and discovering good value hotels across Europe. His most recent adventure involved a rather enthusiastic Thai elephant named Bo, who promptly deposited him into a pond. A true storyteller at heart, Ian continues to travel with humour, curiosity, and an unwavering love for the road less travelled.
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