When it comes to travel, Australia punches way above its weight, said Michael Edwards, managing director of Explore Worldwide, on a recent visit to Sydney. The UK-based company specialises in small-group tours and counts the UK, the US and Australia among its three biggest markets. "Which is astonishing because Australia has a much smaller population," said Edwards, adding, "The popularity of multi-day tours is going through the roof - this industry will be as big as the cruise world in the next 10 years." Want to sign up for a tour of your own? Here are six excellent options.
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1. ONE OF A KIND: Travel is anything but cookie-cutter these days, with operators pushing the envelope by offering truly unique experiences. A case in point is Crooked Compass, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year with a one-off and - in its own words - "never to be repeated itinerary" in Mongolia and Kazakhstan. Hosted by the founder of the company, Lisa Pagotto, the 16-day adventure will kick off in Mongolia on September 11, 2025, with everything from eagle demonstrations to horse races on the itinerary. From $14,646 per person; crooked-compass.com
2. UNDER THE ITALIAN SUN: Want to see, feel and taste the real Italy, but not sure where to go? Leave it to the experts. Perth-based chef Valerio Fantinelli and his Rome-based cousin Luca Rocconi run Italy Tour Co, which offers one-, two- or six-day tours of Italy for solo travellers, couples or groups of up to 12. Just let the cousins know what sort of holiday you're after and they'll sort out the rest. A new sailing adventure around Tremiti islands, with just six guests, is also on the cards. italytour.com.au
3. LOCAL TREASURES: Never underestimate the glorious travel experiences you can have right here in Australia. One look at Renaissance Tours' 2024 program and you'll know why. From an eight-day package taking in the autumn colours in NSW's New England to a five-day food and wine fiesta in north-west Victoria, there's something for everyone. renaissancetours.com.au
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4. OFF TO THE SUBCONTINENT: The Indian Subcontinent is a land of infinite wonders, whether you're exploring the cultural treasures of Rajasthan in western India or enjoying a family-friendly adventure in Sri Lanka. And now with Abercrombie & Kent's new tours you can go even deeper - embark on a Himalayan expedition in Ladakh, uncover the secrets of Kerela or simply visit the Land of the Thunder Dragon in Bhutan. abercrombiekent.com.au
5. FROM TV TO TOURING: One of the greatest things about being part of a multi-day tour is meeting like-minded individuals and forging lifelong friendships. And no one knows that better than Contiki, which has launched limited-edition itineraries for 27-to-35-year-olds, with a firm focus on TV series that fired up our wanderlust during the pandemic years. Are you a fan of Emily in Paris? Check out the company's 19-day European Inspiration tour. Or join the six-day Italian Escape, if you would rather go where the characters of White Lotus season 2 went. contiki.com
6. JET SET GO: For the ultimate luxury experience, you can't look past Aman's Jet Expeditions, which range from a nine-night culinary itinerary in Japan (travelling in bullet trains and helicopters) to the Kyoto to Marrakech journey that visits three continents over 21 nights. aman.com
