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Swim With Whale Sharks

Aug 2

Posted by PressRelease in Australia, Packages | No Comments

Goway Travel, with a long history of selling Downunder, offers the widest range of experiences throughout Western Australia for agents. These include spectacular destinations such as Ningaloo Reef, which has an impressive reputation as one of Earth’s last ocean paradises. Travellers can dive with hundreds of tropical fish, colourful coral and the world’s biggest fish, the whale shark. It’s one of the largest fringing reefs in the world and unlike many others, you can get to it just by stepping off the beach. Goway’s Founder & President, Bruce Hodge, went to Ningaloo Reef and enjoyed a memorable experience diving with the whale sharks and highly recommends this trip.

The Ningaloo marine park stretches 260 kilometres and it reaches nearly 20 kilometres seaward, encompassing a massive 5,000 square kilometres of ocean with 500 species of tropical fish and 220 species of coral in all. Nothing can compare to the thrill of swimming beside a whale shark. These docile creatures visit the reef each year between April and June. Slip on a snorkel or diving gear and swim with graceful manta rays, see dolphins and schools of brightly coloured fish in the clearest turquoise water imaginable.

Rare turtle species also hatch here in late January and February, and visitors can watch this amazing natural phenomenon on special guided, eco-interactive trails.

Goway makes it easy for agents to sell Western Australia and Ningaloo Reef, booking flights, accommodation, and experiences to suit travellers needs. Goway also offers all of the major rail journeys, including one of the greatest train journeys on earth – The Indian Pacific – between Perth and Sydney.

Incredible Expedition Cruise Savings from Goway

Jul 21

Posted by PressRelease in Asia, Australia, Downunder, New Zealand | No Comments

Goway Travel and Orion Expedition Cruises have released special savings for travellers on select cruises in 2011. For couples travelling, the 2nd guest pays only 50% of the cruise fares. And for single travellers, there is no single supplement, representing savings of over $10,000! Offers are available on cruises below. Visit our website for more information on Orion.

For more information and reservations, contact Goway at 800 387 8850.

Australia

Kimberley Expedition
Departs September 3, 2011
Orion’s Expedition Team will lead your exploration of secluded beaches and river inlets – waters famous for an abundance of wildlife. From spectacular waterfalls and awe inspiring gorges, to ancient cultural history and indigenous rock art, the only way you can access the best of the Kimberley is from the sea onboard Orion.

Great Barrier Reef
Departs September 21, 2011
The reef is the world’s largest ecological structure and home to over 1,500 species of fish. Orion’s Zodiac safaris allow guests to snorkel and swim over pristine and seldom-visited sections of the reef, alive with corals and teeming with tropical fish.

Tasmania Food & Wine
Departs November 7 & 26, 2011
Prepare your taste buds as we take maximum advantage of the excellent quality produce found in this region. Join a special guest chef, cheese maker and wine maker Andrew Hood of Hood Wines in Cambridge Tasmania. Voyage highlights include sampling some famous Coles Bay oysters and an overnight visit to Launceston which will allow you to visit Tasmania’s premier wine-producing region for a gourmet food and wine tour.

New Zealand and Sun-Antarctic

Adventures of Lord Howe & Aotearoa
Departs September 26, 2011
This 11 night voyage features a myriad of islands, beautiful bays and beaches, remnant and active volcanoes, exquisite wine country, calm harbors and exploration in vibrant Auckland. Explore onboard Orion from Brisbane visiting World Heritage listed Lord Howe Island and Balls Pyramid, the stunning Bay of Islands, White Island and Marlborough Sounds enroute to Wellington.

Exploration of the Antipodes
Departs October 24, 2011
New Zealand & sub-Antarctic Wildlife Adventure
Departs December 20, 2011
The Antipodes and Sub Antarctic islands are rated by UNESCO with World Heritage status. Here wildlife abounds, a breeding ground for many rare and endangered species. Macquarie Island is home to 850,000 royal penguins and 150,000 pairs of king penguins as well as gentoo and rock hopper penguins and elephant seals the size of a small car. These expeditions are perfect for adventurers, birders and photographers alike.

South-East Asia

Gulf of Siam Explorer
Departs October 10 & December 22, 2011
Thailand, Temples & Mekong
Departs December 15, 2011
Vietnam Explorer
Departs November 18, 27 and December 6, 2011
Our voyages to South-East Asia visit the coastline and islands of Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam and Cambodia. From the organized chaos of cruising the Saigon River with its junks to venturing across the Mekong Delta and upstream to explore the historic Mekong River, the purpose-built expedition ship Orion II has the advantage of being able to penetrate the secluded backwaters of beautiful bays and access rivers where larger cruise ships simply cannot venture.

Downunder – The Ultimate Self Drive Destination

Jul 20

Posted by PressRelease in Australia, Downunder, New Zealand | No Comments

Globetrotting experts Goway Travel are encouraging travellers to hop in a vehicle and explore the real “Downunder”in depth; meet local Aussies, enjoy a drink at the local RSL Club (Veterans club), and see unique wildlife and awe-inspiring scenery!

And because all clients receive Goway’s Co-Pilot Kit (maps, directions, discounts), and a pre-planned itinerary, all of the work and research is done before the flight even lands in the South Pacific.

“A self-drive vacation is the perfect opportunity to really get to know the destination and of course the friendly Aussie’s and Kiwis”, commented Meg Boyd, Downunder Product Manager. “We plan tours for all styles of travellers, from motel accommodation to a farmstay or bed & breakfast, and because everything is booked in advance, visitors can relax and enjoy the scenery and attractions en route.”

Of course, if travellers want to unpack only once during their vacation and enjoy a different view every morning, Goway also offers motor home rentals which are great for families as well. A range of specials are available on motorhome rentals in New Zealand – free ferry crossings, a free week when purchasing a 2 week rental and long hire discounts, are available in both Australia and New Zealand.

In Australia, explore the Pacific Coast between two of the country’s icons from Sydney, home to the Opera House, to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef. This 7, 9 or 14 day self-drive tour is available from $877 per person, twin share, for car rental and accommodation!

New Zealand self-drive options range from 4 to 18 days, taking in the countless variety of attractions; experience Maori culture, visit geysers and glaciers, volcanoes and rainforest, some of the most spectacular in the world, starting from just $402 per person, twin share for the Bay of Islands 4 day self drive, these packages represent great value for money.

Visit the Goway Self Drive website at Goway.com/selfdrive for more information or call 1-888-469-2944

Goway Offers Australia & New Zealand Working Holiday Packages to Young Canadians

Jun 14

Posted by PressRelease in Australia, Downunder, New Zealand | No Comments

Goway Travel, a leading wholesaler for Downunder Travel (Australia and New Zealand) has a working holiday program for young Canadians.

A reciprocal work and holiday visa will allow young Canadians to travel and work in Australia or New Zealand for up to a year. “This is great news for young Canadians wishing to broaden their horizons and experience through travel,” commented Goway’s Downunder Product Manager, Meghan Boyd. “This allows them to supplement their income by working, and we anticipate a major increase in backpackers working and traveling their way around these two countries”

Canadian citizens wishing to come to Australia or New Zealand must be aged 18 to 30 inclusive and be interested in a working holiday of up to 12 months, be outside of Australia or New Zealand when they apply for and are granted the visa, have a return ticket or sufficient funds for a return or onward fare as well as sufficient funds for the first part of their stay, and meet health and character requirements. This visa allows one to stay up to 12 months, and allows work plus there are also opportunities to study.

Goway’s G’DAY (Go Downunder for A Year) includes

  • Great prices on airfares Downunder
  • “Mad Card” – Including over $1000 worth of travel, tour, meal and entertainment vouchers and discounts
  • Arrival airport transfer
  • Dormitory accommodation
  • Pre-paid phone SIM card
  • Australia – Opening your bank account and Medicare Assistance (If applicable) plus setting up your Australian Tax File Number so you can immediately begin work
  • New Zealand – Orientation and assistance with bank accounts and TAX IRD numbers
  • Job Assistance
  • The best in backpacker travel advice to Downunder
  • Toll Free emergency number
  • And More!

The Romance of Rail Travel by Goway

May 24

Posted by PressRelease in Africa, Australia, Product Updates | No Comments

Goway Travel, a leading North American Travel Wholesaler, encourages travelers to experience the romance of rail travel through legendary and unique journeys throughout a range of exotic destinations. The selection of journeys include the longest rail journey in the world, a journey aboard an Orient-Express train, and one of the world renowned trains which journeys through Southern Africa.

“Goway offers a wide range of travel experiences throughout the South Pacific, Asia, Africa and Latin America” commented Emma Cottis, Product and Marketing Manager of Goway Travel, “and rail travel is truly an exceptional experience. You experience landscapes, fine dining and unique accommodations that most people miss by flying between destinations”

In fact many of the rail journeys are built into some of Goway’s most popular travel itineraries. In Australia, Goway’s “Holiday of a Lifetime”, the Waltzing Matilda, includes an optional journey between Alice Springs and Adelaide aboard The Ghan. The ultimate journey through the heart of the continent is also available connecting right through to Darwin. Travelers can enjoy two nights and marvel at the spectacular Australian landscapes; from the rusty reds of the Red Centre, then north to Katherine and the tropical splendor of Darwin.

In Asia, the Eastern & Oriental Express journey is more than just a connection between cities, including excursions to destinations such as the River Kwai. The tropical weather encourages passengers to stroll to the Observation carriage at the rear of the train to enjoy the scenery and a cool breeze. A subtle balance of Eastern culture and cuisine and Western comforts whilst traveling in style and experiencing the many and mystical wonders of Thailand, Singapore and Malaysia. The style and splendor of the E&O, with its elegant compartments, delicious cuisine and superb service, combined with the adventure of a journey through the heart of Asia, provide a unique travel experience.

With interiors created by a leading interior architectural design company, The Blue Train rivals many a five-star hotel in terms of elegance, grace, comfort and style. This Southern African travel experience offers journeys throughout South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe, and can be customized into any journey planned by Goway’s AfricaExperts.

Goway’s DOWNUNDER Mega Famil

May 18

Posted by PressRelease in Agents, Australia | No Comments

Training Workshop, - Click for High Resolution

Following the success of their 40th Anniversary Famil in 2010 for forty North American agents, Goway invited 44 agents to journey from North America on one of four itineraries that met in Sydney for a special Downunder training workshop.

The groups arrived in Sydney having explored Fiji, Tahiti, New Zealand or other parts of Australia, and each educational was designed to experience the destinations firsthand. From shark-feeding in Bora Bora; an Amazing Race in Fiji; to helicopter rides over the Great Barrier Reef.

Of the highlights of the trip, Melanie Gatzke from AMA Travel commented, “Holding Walter the Koala (Goway’s sponsored koala), feeding kangaroos, snorkeling for the first time on the Great Barrier Reef and taking my first helicopter tour over the Great Barrier Reef. Oh and the photos I was able to get! I really enjoyed the Arcades and Laneways tour in Melbourne…a great way to tour that area of the city in depth.”

Agents on Bondi Beach, Sydney - Click for High Resolution

In Sydney, Australia all 44 agents attended a training workshop with over 50 suppliers and enjoyed a  celebratory dinner. Goway’s commitment to the South Pacific made this Mega Educational special and unique for all its participants. The training workshop and dinner were co-ordinated and planned by the management and staff of the company’s Sydney office, which is the local contact for all travellers booked with Goway.

“While I have travelled to the South Pacific more times than I can count on my fingers and toes, seeing and experiencing Tahiti for the first time has awakened my desire to share the beauty of this group of islands with everyonel I meet.” Commented Sharon Oberitter of Oberritter Travel.

Ruth Louie from Best Connections Travel chose to celebrate her birthday with

The New Zealand Group - Click for high resolution

Goway, “It was a great trip. I got a really good feel for the country for my clients. The awesome beauty of the New Zealand landscape was breathtaking. The most impressive aspect of the Goway Famil was experiencing first hand the variety of activities that New Zealand has to offer: urban and country adventures (of the North Island), visiting geysers, and then relaxing in hot spring pools in Rotorua; the spectacular vistas of Queenstown and Milford Sound (South Island), and all the soft to high adventure options available. As agents we’re always looking for ways to offer new & diverse activities to our clients. And Goway pulled it all together for us and kept the program moving along.”

Get ACTIVE with Goway’s DOWNUNDER ADVENTURES

Apr 14

Posted by PressRelease in Adventure Inc, Australia, Brochure, New Package | No Comments

Goway Travel has announced the launch of a new range of Adventure product in the new 2011/12 DOWNUNDER brochure.

“We have been witnessing an amazing demand and growth for adventure travel – from soft to extreme – in Australia and New Zealand, and have now introduced a dedicated section to adventure travel in our 132-page 2011/12 DOWUNDER travel planner” states Don Forster, Product Manager.

“The new adventure section offers the best adventure options in Australia and New Zealand ranging from 1-365 days in length. Each holiday offers a variety of nature based activities and wildlife experiences, including 4WD Safaris, Kayaking, Rafting, Biking, Hiking, Diving, Snorkelling, Sailing, Ballooning, Horse Riding, Zip Lining and Camping. If agents have active clients who enjoy delving into the local culture, geology, wildlife, flora, fauna and history of their destination, all while avoiding large crowds – we have the right option” continues Forster.

With this focused offering of adventure in Australia and New Zealand, Goway offers the best and most comprehensive range of DOWNUNDER adventure product in North America from budget to deluxe.

Some of the featured product is the 10 day Rock n Top between Alice Springs and Darwin (from $1530CAD) which includes a local guide, all transportation, accommodation and the majority of meals and much more!

Or 4WD Safaris through the Outback, ranging from 2-14 days – including Uluru, Kings Canyon, Kata Tjuta, Palm Valley, Katherine Gorge, Kakadu National Park, Litchfield National Park, Mary River and more! (from $1530CAD).

A great option for backpackers or someone wanting total freedom in their itinerary is the Hop On…Hop Off Passes (similar to Eurail) on a private Backpacker Network throughout New Zealand (from $65CAD – $1455CAD depending on desired region) – valid for 12 months of travel with up 60% off some passes if booked by April 26th!

When it comes to awesome natural attractions, golden beaches and pristine waterways, Australia’s popular east coast has the lot. The Island Suntanner is the perfect holiday to kick back, relax and enjoy the ride! Zealand (from $2085CAD)

For those wanting to be active but at the same time spend their nights in comfort, Goway offers deluxe adventure options such as 4 star Deluxe Small Group Touring in the Northern Territory, South Australia, Western Australia and New Zealand (from $114CAD per day) or the famous Kingfisher Bay Resort – 3 and 4 day Fraser Island Adventure, Whale watching or Romance Packages at this 4-star eco resort (from $413CAD).

Goway’s Bruce Hodge Honoured for Commitment to Australian Tourism

Apr 11

Posted by PressRelease in Australia, Awards | No Comments

L to R: Leslie Cassar, Bruce Hodge - Click for high resolution

At the South Pacific’s largest trade event, the Australian Tourism Exchange, the Chairman of Tourism NSW, Leslie Cassar, gave a special tribute to Bruce Hodge, Founder and President of Goway, for his tireless promotion of Sydney and NSW as a tourist destination.

The event was held at Sydney’s waterfront overlooking the iconic Opera House, and was attended by all international buyers, as well as suppliers and tour operators from around the country. Mr Cassar recognised that Bruce has been promoting the State of New South Wales to international travellers in Canada and the United States for the past 40 years.

Mr Cassar acknowledged Bruce’s long-standing contribution to tourism and on behalf of Tourism NSW and its Board, presented him with the inaugural Chairman’s Award for Long Service to Tourism in NSW.

Bruce Hodge, originally from Nambucca Heads in regional NSW, moved to Sydney then re-located to Canada in 1970 and started up his own company which was the first to operate camping tours across Canada and the USA. His company began to sell Australia to North Americans in the early 1980s. Today Goway works with all major airlines and markets to both Canada and the USA, and is now the largest mover of people from North America to Australia.

Goway offers Convenient Cruising

Feb 15

Posted by PressRelease in Australia, IslandsEscapes, Product Updates | No Comments

Goway Travel, a leading North American Tour Operator offers a wide range of worldwide boutique small vessel cruises. The selection of cruises offers an intimate experience with personalized service. When compared to a independent tour, cruising offers a cost effective and convenient method of travel; unpacking just once, cruises typically include sightseeing excursions and all meals.

“Goway offers a wide range of cruises throughout the South Pacific, Asia, Africa and Latin America, as well as unique destinations such as the Galapagos and Antarctica” commented Emma Cottis, Product and Marketing Manager of Goway Travel, “and cruising is truly an exceptional experience. You experience landscapes, fine dining and unique accommodations that most people miss by flying between destinations”

In the South Pacific, Goway offers expedition cruising aboard Orion, a purpose built vessel offering 5 star experiences. Orion offers expeditions throughout the year to Australia’s Kimberley, Arnhem Land, Queensland’s Great Barrier Reef, Papua New Guinea and New Zealand. Five night itineraries onboard the Orion on the east coast of Australia start at $3160pp twin share. Also available are the Coral Princess & Oceanic Discoverer, expedition ships large enough to provide all the comforts of larger ships yet small enough to access reef and island sites not available to other vessels. Carrying no more than 72 passengers these ships offer environmental cruise experiences that are both personal and memorable. Prices for a 12 night cruise around New Zealand start from $7198pp.

Orion has recently commenced cruises in Asia, including Borneo, Thailand and Indochina, plus Japan and Russia. For more information on these cruises, request Goway’s 2011 Asia Travel Planner.

Cruising in Fiji is one of the best ways to visit this delightful island destination. 3, 4 or 7 night itineraries cruising through the Yasawa Islands offer air conditioned accommodation, all meals and the option of many activities – village visits, snorkeling, snorkeling & watersports to name a few. The onboard atmosphere is casual and relaxed, the sunsets are spectacular and cuisine is superb. A four day Cruise starts from only $1163.

Travellers looking for a truly unique destination may consider cruising Antarctica past towering mountains, white and azure bergs, penguins nesting by the thousands, and the vast wilderness. Antarctica is at its best during the brief but brilliant summer season, visiting stunning penguin rookeries, historical ruins and volcanic islands. With six full days on the Antarctic Peninsula, cruises allow ample time to enjoy some of the most spectacular scenery in the world. Prices start from $9710.

Goway Issues Update on Australia Floods

Jan 27

Posted by PressRelease in Australia | No Comments

In response to recent North American media coverage concerning the floods in Southern Queensland, Goway has prepared the following summary of affected areas.

Most of the Queensland’s major tourism destinations including the Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast, Fraser Coast, Bundaberg, Gladstone, the Whitsundays, Mackay, Townsville, Cairns and Tropical North Queensland are accessible and tourism operations are normal including beaches, island resorts, accommodation providers, tour operators and attractions.

“The majority of our travellers were not affected by the flooding in the southern parts of Queensland, as they were travelling in the Cairns and Far North Queensland area, exploring the Great Barrier Reef and Rainforest” commented founder and President, Bruce Hodge, “All major international airports were open throughout the media coverage and now that Rockhampton airport has reopened, there are no problems with air access to all areas of Australia”

  • All Queensland airports are open and operating normally.
  • The Bruce Highway, the main road link from Brisbane to Cairns, is open.
  • Queensland Rail is operating between Brisbane and Cairns
  • Brisbane, the Darling Downs and Capricorn Coast are now recovering with most tourism operations open and affected tourism operations returning to normal as quickly as possible. There are however still some local road closures in some areas.
  • Parts of Central Queensland, Queensland’s Outback, Western Downs and the Lockyer Valley continue to be affected and access to these areas is restricted.

For more information on Australia, visit www.goway.com or call 1-800-387-8850

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