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Australian authorities are currently discouraging travel to virtually the entire Middle East; however, the Australian Travel Industry Association (ATIA) chief executive, Dean Long, says members are not reporting any decline in bookings.

VIKING still has vacancies on river cruises that explore Europe’s Christmas markets, a timeless celebration of culture, tradition and community. For instance, Budapest to Passau or v.v. Eight days. Selected sailings in Nov‌ &‌ Dec‍ 2026 are priced from $3,395pp. Viking has also released details of its expansive 2028–2029 ocean deployment, featuring more than 700 new departure dates and two new ocean itineraries including a 15-day Japan Discovery.

HELLOWORLD invites you to discover Australia’s spiritual heart next year on a four-day Uluṟu adventure. See majestic Uluṟu and the magnificent domes of Kata Tjuta from the ground and the air. These fully escorted small-group journeys in June, July, Aug and Sept are priced from $ 3,899 pp twin share or $4,989 solo. TFE HOTELS winter sale offers 20% off at more than 50 participating hotels across Australia and New Zealand. Eclub members enjoy a further discount. Hurry though – sale ends August 11.

UTRACKS has added the iconic E5 Alpine Crossing to its portfolio with two self-guided itineraries. The E5 is one of Europe’s most celebrated long-distance hiking trails, stretching around 3,200 kilometres from the Atlantic coast of France to Verona in northern Italy.

DAIOS COVE Crete offers luxury-loving clients the privacy and flexibility of a private residence alongside the service and facilities of a five-star resort. The Mansion is a 600sqm private residence overlooking the resort’s secluded cove in Vathi, Crete.

JUST YOU, the solo travel operator, is offering savings on some September tours, including a Sicilian sojourn and a Moroccan adventure. Also on sale in Europe’s shoulder season: A Croatian immersion and an exploration of the Balkans.

PONANT EXPLORATIONS wonders if you dream of exploring Antarctica in 2028 or 2029? Book early and enjoy Bonus Savings of up to 30% on all-inclusive fares aboard refined, small ships.

HAPAG-LLOYD Cruises is introducing new itineraries for its five luxury and expedition ships, offering fresh experiences for even the most seasoned travellers. In February 2027, for instance, Europa will debut a 29-day voyage from Valparaiso to San Francisco, linking South, Central and North America across eight countries.

IEXPEDITION’S Discover the Arctic program is on sale – Enjoy savings of up to 30% and Air Credit of up to $5,000pp. Big savings are available on a South Atlantic Cruise from South Africa to Antarctica departing 23 October 2026 – 12 November 2026. More details: [email protected].

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES invites you to explore Brazil – with up to 40% off fares. Wake to the iconic skyline of Rio de Janeiro or choose to sail through the legendary Amazon River. Your travel agent will have details.

IMAGINE CRUISING has a special deal on an Azamara cruise from Indonesia to Australia plus a five-star Bali escape. The 17-night package costs from $4999. Details here: https://www.imaginecruising.com.au/holidays/all-inclusive-azamara-voyage-from-indonesia-to-australia-with-five-star-bali-escape/?fsource=ihccsoluspip&airport=SYD&lid=yrluygcxvfh2.

ACCOR says Peppers Noosa Resort & Villas is a slower kind of escape which will leave you rejuvenated and wanting more. Escape now and save 25%* when you book until 31 July 2026 for stays until 30 September 20.

FLATBEDS advises Adelaide passengers to skip the East Coast transit and fly direct to the US in comfort with United Airlines. Enjoy direct flights between Adelaide and San Francisco during its seasonal service from 19 December 2026 to 10 February 2027.

FROM LAST WEEK:

SOFITEL Auckland Viaduct Harbour and Sofitel Wellington are inviting guests to elevate winter stays with new ‘Stay & Club Access Privileges’ packages, offering complimentary access to each hotel’s exclusive Club lounge. Book through all.accor.com.

HELLOWORLD has a seven-night special for you snow ski fans – seven nights at Niseko Nikko plus breakfast daily and a five-day lift pass from $2,900pp twin share. Japan’s Niseko Village boasts some of the best and longest skiing and snowboarding trails. Also on sale – a 10-night family Whistler Escape from $4899.

HX EXPEDITIONS is featuring Greenland. Discovering Greenland – From Reykjavík to Nuuk (14 days) – prices from $13,122; Grand Greenland – The Icy Giants of Disko Bay (13 days) $15,194. More info – go to travelhx.com.

VIKING has released two river itineraries for 2030 that offer a rare opportunity to experience the Oberammergau Passion Play—a cherished tradition performed once a decade for nearly 400 years.

ACCOR has good news for AFL lovers. “As we are the AFL’s official accommodation partner, earn reward points on every stay and use your points to access AFL match tickets including the Grand Final”. You might even see your favourite player.

COASTAL CRUISES has released a Northern Lights Cruise Sale. Book now for selected departures between October 2026 and March 2027. More details here: https://www.norwegiancoastalcruises.com/special-offers.htm?utm_source=aweber&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=name-fix-hurtigruten-northern-lights-sale#Sale.

ROYAL ZAMBEZI LODGE in the Lower Zambezi and Lion Camp in the South Luangwa, ZAMBIA, have extended their value-for-money 8-night package into 2027. Details here: https://mcusercontent.com/70afcba1cac3a0107299ff970/files/140e49e3-15b2-9fd0-0469-daa1431afd52/Royal_Zambezi_Lodge_Lion_Camp_8_night_Zambia_2027_package.pdf.

SOFITEL ADELAIDE invites you to experience the magic of Illuminate Adelaide. Book the Winter Staycation Package and enjoy a luxurious overnight escape in the heart of the city and dinner.

QANTAS will operate non-stop flights from Sydney to London from October next year. You will touch down in the British capital in just 22 hours. Not for me though. True, I travel in business class these days – but I enjoy a stopover stroll before a glass of champagne, a decent meal and a shower in the lounges of major airlines like Emirates.

iEXPEDITION invites you to book the South Atlantic cruise from South Africa to Antarctica; 20 Nights Cape Town to Ushuaia departing 23 October 2026 – and save over 50%.

UTRACKS has a great new idea for you bike fans – cycle from the Austrian Alps to the Adriatic Sea on a self-guided journey through Austria, Slovenia and Italy.

EXPLORA has a Sky & Sea program to take care of your every detail – from take-off to return. International flights, an overnight hotel stay and private transfers are all arranged. Reserve by 28 July 2026 and enjoy 25% savings on this supplement on selected Extended Journeys.

AFRICAN SUNRISE SAFARI invites you to embark on a journey through some of Southern Africa’s most spectacular wilderness regions, combining the iconic beauty of Victoria Falls with the untamed waterways of Botswana’s Chobe River and the pristine landscapes of the Okavango Delta. More details here: https://africansunrisesafari.com/luxury-african-safari-tours/kruger-national-park-victoria-falls-safari-packages/?utm_source=email&utm_medium=email%20marketing.

PULLMAN AUCKLAND AIRPORT has released a special deal for airline geeks. The Aviation Enthusiast Experience Package includes a runway-facing room with panoramic views of aircraft arrivals and departures, a full breakfast at Te Kaahu Restaurant (also boasting runway views), and a welcome amenity of aircraft-shaped chocolates.

TOURING:

BECKONS, a curated portfolio of luxury lodges in the world’s most remote and remarkable places, has announced a new limited-time offer for Tierra Patagonia inviting travellers to design their own ideal adventure in one of South America’s most extraordinary wilderness regions. The offer is valid for travel from September 15 to October 20, 2026. More details: https://beckons.com.

VISIT BRITAIN points out that while the World Cup might be over, your enthusiasm for the great game can be further stoked at a number of venues in the UK. Manchester, for instance, often called English football’s capital, is home to Manchester United, Manchester City and the National Football Museum, where visitors can explore the world’s largest football memorabilia collection. Wembley Stadium in London is a powerhouse for fans of England, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur, Crystal Palace, Brentford, and Fulham. More details here: https://www.mancity.com/store/products/tours.

ATIA, the Australian Travel Industry Association, is urging Australian travellers to check that their travel agent or tour operator holds current ATIA Accreditation, following issues with Melbourne-based tour operator AVG Travels.

UTRACKS has expanded several of Europe’s classic long-distance walking trails in response to growing demand from travellers wanting to spend longer exploring a single route. In Spain, for instance, that means continuing west from Santiago along the Camino Finisterre to the Atlantic coast.

RAIL:

THE ROYAL SCOTSMAN presents a collection of Highland journeys, each with a distinct route and pace. From whisky-led itineraries and classic Highland routes to the Grand Tour of Scotland, each journey combines off-board excursions with exquisite dining and convivial evenings on board. Explore this autumn’s departures, with exclusive offers available on October journeys.

EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS invites you to extend your stay in Asia and see the countryside in style at a slower pace. Depart in September or November and receive a complimentary night at the Mandarin Oriental, Singapore – before or after your rail sojourn. Contact the reservations team and quote ‘EOEMORIENTALS1NT’ to book.
Solo travellers: from July to December, there is no single supplement fee on select departures. Join a six-night journey aboard the Express and aid the campaign to save wild tigers.

BRITANNIC EXPLORER is the answer for you rail buffs who love to explore in style at a slower pace. Departing from London, the train’s three routes take you on three- or six-night journeys through the spectacular natural landscapes of Cornwall, the Lake District, and Wales.

BRITISH PULLMAN is another option – the company has just released details of Celia, a new private dining and events carriage imagined and designed by visionary filmmaker Baz Luhrmann. Itineraries include The Golden Age of Travel by steam. Or, how about the great British Sunday lunch as the world rumbles by?

SNCF CONNECT is making it easier to travel even further by train with Swiss and German regional services now available.

CRUISE:

REGENT SEVEN SEAS CRUISES is offering up to 40% off on selected itineraries including Miami to Lisbon April 14 2027, New York to Southampton on June 1 and Southampton to Montreal, August 27.

AVALON WATERWAYS has good news if a European river cruise is on your 2027 wish list – for a limited time, you can fly free on two popular Europe cruises including Magnificent Rivers of Europe, 15 days, five countries from Budapest to Amsterdam. Your travel agent will have details.

CELEBRITY CRUISES 2028 Japan sailings are now open for booking. Stay overnight in Kyoto, Aomori, and Kobe to explore the country’s incredible flavours and festivals.

VIKING says there are only nine sailings available for its 23-day European Sojourn voyage between Amsterdam and Bucharest, traversing eight countries along the Rhine, Main and Danube. Sail through the heart of Central and Eastern Europe, from the Netherlands to Romania or vice versa.

MY CRUISES is promoting a fly/cruise holiday to China in 2027, priced from $ 3999 pp. The itinerary includes a Yangtze Cruise, bullet train experience and the Great Wall at night.

HX EXPEDITIONS says tick Antarctica off your bucket list. Specials include: Highlights of Antarctica (12 days) – prices from $14,599; Antarctica & Falklands Expedition (16 days)- from $16,941; and In-depth Antarctica, Falklands & South Georgia Expedition (23 days)- from $29,424.

AMAWATERWAYS is introducing a limited-time Cruise & Fly promotion that combines more than 300 selected river cruise itineraries across Europe and Asia with return international airfares. Examples include Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals (14 nights) – Cruise through the Netherlands, Belgium, Germany, France and Switzerland, starting or ending in Amsterdam. The price of from $9,678pp includes the 14-night cruise and return international flights.

SOLO TRAVELLERS:

MURRAY RIVER PADDLESTEAMERS is offering a double bonus for single travellers – Savings and no solo supplements on three-night cruises. Travel before August 31, 2026. The company is based in the Victorian river port of Echuca, Victoria.

AVALON WATERWAYS is waiving the single supplement on select 2027 Europe and Mekong departures, but don’t delay – there are only a limited number of spots per departure.

VIKING is an excellent product I can recommend – and you can now enjoy a saving of up to 25% on select river journeys and expeditions and up to 50% on the single supplement on select ocean voyages. The single supplement offer applies to select staterooms and is only available until sold out.

JUST YOU, the specialist solo tour operator, is offering savings on European tours departing in September, including a Sardinian sojourn (save $300) and a Camino de Santiago walking tour ($250)

EASTERN & ORIENTAL EXPRESS invites you to extend your stay in Asia and see the countryside in style at a slower pace. Solo travellers: from July to December, there is no single supplement fee on select departures. Join a six-night journey aboard the Express and aid the campaign to save wild tigers.

AIRLINES:

QANTAS Travel Insider has rounded up the European destinations that prove a side trip can be the unexpected highlight of your holiday. From storybook towns to Mediterranean island escapes, these hidden gems are only a short hop from the continent’s capitals. Have a look here: https://www.qantas.com/travelinsider/en/explore/europe/best-european-daytrip-ideas-excursions-from-capital-cities.html?alt_cam=au:qd:in:edm:travelinsider:ti-europe-daytrips:17Jul26:int:CONTENT:fd:introduction-cta-initial-0-default:ht&cid=DM500662&bid=976550346&ffid=046159240077109204098114239060233138214139090169.

AIR MAURITIUS has confirmed the return to three-weekly services between Perth and Mauritius, effective July 2026. The new service supports improved onward connections via Mauritius to destinations across Africa and Europe.

MALAYSIA AIRLINES has a great deal if you are stopping over in KL. Double your adventure and enjoy a flight to one of eight local destinations at no extra fare – just pay the taxes. Book your flight as an Enrich member and enjoy an extra 5% off.

FINNAIR will operate from Melbourne starting in October. The carrier invites you to experience the thrill of skiing in Kittilä or Kuusamo, admire the Northern Lights in a glass igloo in Ivalo, or enjoy the year-round Christmas spirit in Rovaniemi.

ACCOMMODATION:

PULLMAN QUAY Grand Sydney Harbour has a family holiday deal. Book a deluxe one-bedroom (Garden or Harbour View) room and get breakfast, parking and a Busy Nippers Kids Activity Pack.

AUKO Eco-Wellness Lodges, Vietnam’s newest regenerative luxury wellness retreat, has been designed for travellers seeking meaningful adventure, restorative wellness and a genuine connection with nature. Book through the Auko website and receive an exclusive 20% discount, plus additional value-added benefits. More details here: https://aukoways.com.

ZANNIER IIE DE BENDOR, a newly opened private island retreat off France’s Côte d’Azur, has quickly become one of Europe’s hottest hotel openings. It takes its blueprint from its spectacular sister property, Zannier Bãi San Hô in Vietnam, which spans 98 hectares of coastline, rice fields, and forested hills in Dak Lak province.

THE RETREAT KOH CHANG has launched its new “Island Getaway – Stay Longer For More” summer offer for stays of three or more nights, available until 15 October 2026 with rates starting from THB 5,760 (approx AUD250) per night ++ per room, per night for two guests. This is one of Thailand’s most beautiful and unspoiled island destinations.

DAIOS COVE, set on the secluded coastline of eastern Crete, is the sprawling luxury resort home to KEPOS by Goco, a 2,500 sqm wellbeing sanctuary designed for recovery, recalibration and long-term resilience. Guests say it’s just the place to beat burnout.

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TRADE ONLY:

Interline Travel advises Mitsui Ocean Cruises has released three Circle Pacific sectors for early 2027 that cross the Pacific – Japan to the South Pacific and back. These are once-a-year repositioning voyages that will not repeat: • Yokohama to Papeete – 25 nights, 3 Feb 2027,

Calls at Saipan, Chuuk, Cairns (overnight), Port Vila, Lautoka, Apia, and Moorea before arriving in Tahiti. Check out the other long list of deals.

The Travel Industry Club is featuring some excellent Azamara rates, including Auckland/Melbourne (Christmas) 19 Dec, 16 nights; Kobe/Tokyo 03 April, 9 nights; Singapore/Sydney 14 Nov, 20 nights; and a 9-night Japan Cherry Blossom cruise. Also popular is Mitsui Ocean Cruises, which operates two elegant small ships, the former Seabourn Odyssey and Seabourn Sojourn. Check out the itineraries including 34 nights from Cairns to Yokohama.

Breakaway Travel Industry Club has a great range of Christmas/New Year cruises with Royal Caribbean and Celebrity, including Anthem of the Seas December 19 2026 – 9 Nights Australia & New Zealand Sydney to Sydney.

Arriving in Sydney, HX Expeditions has launched Chart Your Course to Antarctica, a new travel agent incentive that rewards you for selling Antarctica voyages and gives you a chance to earn your place on an exclusive Antarctica famil. For every eligible Antarctica 2027 booking made between 1 August and 31 October 2026, you’ll earn points.

To be eligible, bookings must: • Be a new Antarctica 2027 booking • Be made and deposited between 1 August and 31 October 2026 • Be registered via the booking registration form. Details here: https://cdn.onpublicaddress.com/release_uploads/439/056e2efe25a29204d3a5a63ff0054bd2.pdf.

The Merchant Hotel, a member of Radisson Individuals, has opened in the heart of Brisbane’s central business district. The contemporary 58-room boutique hotel is within easy reach of the city’s corporate, government, cultural and entertainment precincts.

Daios Cove has the answer for luxury-loving clients wanting the privacy and flexibility of a private residence alongside the service and facilities of a five-star resort. The Mansion is a 600sqm private residence overlooking the resort’s secluded cove in Vathi, Crete, where expansive living spaces, dedicated hospitality, wellness facilities and access to the wider resort come together in one private retreat.

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. Want to join our mailing list? Send a request to[email protected]. Ian McIntosh is Australia’s senior traveller. We have no commercial relationship with any operator. Our Facebook page is here: https://www.facebook.com/top10traveloz/.