Archive for category Downunder

Waltzing Across A Good Tour Downunder

There are tours, fully escorted tours and then there are HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME®. Goway Travel, one of North America’s largest and most experienced tour operators, is the only company to offer the Waltzing Matilda, a 22 day guided exploration of the best of Australia and New Zealand, the Best of New Zealand, a 10 day journey of both the North and South Islands of New Zealand and the 15 day Best of Australia, taking in all the highlights of this amazing country.

Australia and New Zealand are generally considered two of the safest travel destinations in the world, and the people of both countries also are considered to be among the most hospitable and friendly.

Journeying south through New Zealand, visitors can expect to see the very best of New Zealand: Auckland, the harbor city; Rotorua’s geothermal activity and the nearby glow-worm caves; cruise on serene Milford Sound and the popular English-style city of Christchurch. Continuing across the Tasman aboard award-winning airline, Qantas Airways, travelers arrive at the tropical city of Cairns. Cairns is the gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and World Heritage listed Daintree Rainforest. After a few days of exploration the tour continues through Australia’s “Red Centre” with the option to take the world-famous Ghan train to the Festival City of Adelaide. The trip is completed with time in two of Australia’s best Southern cities, Melbourne and Adelaide.

All of Goway’s exclusive HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME are first class fully escorted touring experiences, and are also available in Africa and Asia. Virtually everything is included, including tips. Every departure has a fun theme. Guaranteed departures are available on the Waltzing Matilda and prices start from $4619 CAD.

“Our extremely high passenger satisfaction virtually guarantees future repeat business” states Bruce Hodge, founder and President of the 41 year old company. “It is not unusual to see past travellers booking on three or all four itineraries. They are even requesting we create more HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME itineraries” he continued, “and they are very easy for agents to sell in the first place, offering very lucrative commissions”.

Incredible Expedition Cruise Savings from Goway

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

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

IslandsEscapes FREE Nights and FREE Room Upgrades in Tahiti

Tahiti evokes images of lush tropical landscapes; of crystal clear azure lagoons surrounded by soaring volcanic peaks; of love and romance; of gentle goddesses and fierce warriors, it is the stuff of dreams and legends. IslandsEscapes…by Goway and Sofitel Resorts offers the opportunity to experience all of this with a unique 6 night escape to the island of Moorea.

Only twelve miles from Tahiti is the island of Moorea which resembles a vast star-shaped garden branching into eight valleys. Bask in the warm sunshine, plunge into clear blue waters of a calm lagoon, hire a wind surfer, rent a Jeep and explore the mountain valley’s with exotic flowers at every turn.

This escape, from just $2949 per person includes airfares from Los Angeles to Papeete with the award winning Air Tahiti Nui, meet and greet upon arrival, round trip ferry transportation between Papeete and Moorea, hotel transfers and 6 nights accommodation at the Sofitel Moorea Ia Ora Beach Resort in a Superior Overwater Bungalow – including breakfast daily, 2 free nights plus a free upgrade from a Luxury Beach Bungalow – a value of up to $1958 per couple. For more information, visit our website.

Goway’s Fly Free to New Zealand – Save up to $3796 per couple

Goway Travel has today launched spectacular savings on trips to New Zealand for this fall. For bookings before 15 August 2011 on selected guaranteed escorted tour departures from Oct 2011 to March 2012 – passengers can receive FREE flights to New Zealand departing from Vancouver – valued at $1898 per person (pricing based on year round airfares Vancouver/Auckland/Vancouver).

The leading North American travel specialist for travel Downunder is offering this amazing deal for travel in New Zealand’s Spring and Autumn – a great time to visit this cultural destination. From the dramatic scenery; waterfalls, geysers and mountains to the indigenous culture of the Maori, New Zealand is a great destination at any time of year.

Product Manager Meghan Boyd commented “The geography of New Zealand is well suited to escorted touring. The roads are surrounded by spectacular scenery, and relaxing in the comfort of a luxury touring coach, and socializing with a group of like-minded world wide travelers/travellers is a much better way to appreciate the surrounding beauty than having your attention fixed on a steering wheel.” Boyd also highlights the incredible value New Zealand offers “Currently $1CA buys $1.25NZ so combined with the value of this special offer, New Zealand has never been more affordable for North Americans.

There are 5 touring programs offered on this deal, in the Premier Plus Category – the 21 day Great New Zealand Experience, 18 day All About New Zealand and 16 days New Zealand Phenomenon plus 2 Premier Escorted Tours, the 17 Day New Zealand Wonderland and 14 day New Zealand Highlighter

Premier Plus Vacations are designed to delight even the most discerning traveler, staying at first-class hotels, providing superb full a la carte cuisine, luxury coaches, special theme dinners and comprehensive itineraries fully inclusive of all major attractions.

Premier vacations are also fully inclusive, high quality vacations, and enjoy an exciting sightseeing program, special theme dinners, superior hotels and modern european-style coaches.

Anyone looking to book these deals should ask for ‘Fly Free” at time of booking to get the deal, no other discounts apply

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

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!

Goway’s Small Group Touring Experiences Offer Something Different

Goway Travel operates 10 different escorted tours covering 4 continents.  Every tour contains unusual or different events, sightseeing and meals in addition to the expected sites and inclusions. “We want our passengers to return not only satisfied with their tour but also to know they experienced something that they can say was unexpected and memorable”, says Goway President, Bruce Hodge.
Examples of these are the following.

22 Day Waltzing Matilda to Australia and New Zealand from CA$7779

  • Spend one night with a “Kiwi” family in Rotorua including a home-cooked meal
  • Travel on an amphibious army duck into the Kuranda Rainforest in Cairns
  • Get to meet Goway’s adopted Koalas, Matilda and Walter
  • Enjoy dinner under the stars in the Outback
  • Take a camel to breakfast in Alice Springs
  • Try a traditional Aussie meat pie from a vendor’s stall in Sydney.

21 Day Magic of Africa to South Africa, Botswana and Victoria Falls from CA$9899

  • A visit to Mandela’s former “home” on Robben Island in Cape Town
  • Try South African wines in the Cape Winelands
  • Watch dolphins and whales at Knysna Lagoon
  • Cruise the St. Lucia Wetlands
  • Visit a local pre school in Zimbabwe
  • Have dinner on a luxury steam train while on board in Victoria Falls.

22 Day Middle East Treasures to Egypt, Jordan and Israel from CA$8999

  • An overnight stop in the Sinai Peninsula including a special Bedouin dinner and show plus an optional hike to the top of Mount Sinai, site of the ten commandments
  • Travel in a 4 wheel drive jeep into the sand dunes in Wadi Rum
  • Swim (or float) in the Dead Sea
  • Visit to a winery in Carmel
  • Lunch at a Kibbutz
  • Visit a mystical Druze Village near Haifa
  • Visit to the Bauhaus Museum in Tel Aviv.
  • The 19 May 2011 departure includes an outdoor performance at Masada in Israel of Verdi’s opera, Aida.

18 Day Splendours of China and Tibet from CA$5629

  • Visit the Olympic site including the “Bird’s Nest” stadium and the “Water Cube”
  • Panda Centre near Chengdu
  • Tang Dynasty dinner and show in Xian
  • Tour of the old city of Ciqikou, near Chongqing
  • Spend 3 nights in the unique destination of Tibet

18 Day Splendours of India from CA$5299

  • Visit a working people’s laundry and have tea with a local family in Mumbai
  • Dinner with a distinguished Indian family in Jaipur
  • Visit to Mother Teresa’s orphanage in Agra
  • Ride on the famous Shatabdi Express train

14 Day Splendours of Indochina to Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos from CA$5479

  • Spend half day in Hoi An with well-known Vietnamese chef, Ms.Vy when travellers help to prepare a typical local meal
  • Pedi Cab ride through the old streets of Hanoi
  • Overnight stay on a luxury junk in Halong Bay
  • Visit the UNESCO protected World Heritage site of Luang Prabang
  • Visit the notorious “Killing Fields” outside Phnom Penh.

20 Day Magical Ecuador and Peru from CA$8649

  • Lunch taken at a restaurant overlooking an extinct volcano near Quito
  • Ride on a private train from Otavalo to the Sacred Valley
  • Spa stay in Papallacta Hot Springs
  • Cooking lesson in Pisac,
  • Trip aboard the 5 star luxury train, the Hiram Bingham to arrive at Machu Picchu in style
  • Meet the local indigenous natives who live on the Uros floating islands on Lake Titicaca, the world’s highest navigable lake.

17 Day Splendours of South America to Chile, Argentina and Brazil from CA$7369

  • Special wine tasting outside of Santiago
  • Cross the Andes by private motor coach and ferries
  • Coffee at the famous traditional Café Tortini in Buenos Aires
  • Day trip to Colonia Del Sacramento in Uruguay from Buenos Aires
  • Optional helicopter ride over Iguassu Falls
  • Night of Samba in Rio de Janeiro.

All tour departures are land only sharing basis and include tipping, special dinners and Goway’s twin share guarantee a benefit for single travellers. Goway will match them with someone of the same sex avoiding the single room supplement. If this option is taken up and there is no one else wishing to share, a single room is provided at no additional cost. Additionally a quality Travel Companion booklet with a wealth of destination information and a souvenir group photograph at the end of the tour are provided.

For more information on Goway’s “Holidays of a Lifetime” small group escorted touring experiences, request a copy of the Downunder, Africa/Middle East, Asia and Latin America travel planners by calling 1-800-387-8850 or by visiting our online brochure rack

To view more about Goway’s Holidays of a Lifetime, visit www.goway.com/hol/index.html.

Goway Celebrates in Sydney

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In celebration of their 40th Anniversary, Goway Travel hosted a 1970’s themed party for almost 200 people last night at the Dockside restaurant in Darling Harbour, Sydney.

In attendance were 50 travel agents from Canada, USA and South America who flew in with Qantas, Air New Zealand, Air Tahiti Nui and Air Pacific. There were inbound suppliers from all over Australia as well as New Zealand. Goway staff, including Bruce Hodge, the founder and president of Goway, flew in from Canada and America to celebrate with their Goway Australia colleagues.

Goway Travel, which started in Toronto in 1970, has grown into one of the largest and most respected travel wholesalers in North America, specializing in long haul travel for globetrotters. Goway Travel Sydney is also one of the largest and most respected inbound tour operators, drawing business from all over the world.

The 1970’s theme saw many of the Australian inbound suppliers relive their youth in a very festive atmosphere.

As well as other parties and events that are planned for the rest of 2010, the company’s biggest promotion is a 40-Trips-for-Two giveaway with a total value of over $250,000.

For more information on Goway’s celebrations, please visit Goway.com/40th.

Goway’s Escorted Tours are Unique… and FUN!

Only Goway offers an escorted tour series branded HOLIDAYS OF A LIFETIME. To substantiate this claim, Goway’s destination Product Managers draw on years of experience to carefully select hotels and sightseeing experiences. To enhance the series further, Goway includes Fun Themes on each of their departures.

Departures are allocated a specific Fun Theme which is incorporated into the experiences. These themes provide an opportunity to highlight aspects of the destination.

Sample themes include “Lifestyles and Native Culture” which may introduce the indigenous peoples such as the Zulus and Xhosas on the 20 day Magic of Africa tour to South Africa, Botswana and Victoria Falls. The “Cuisines and Food” theme includes trying an Aussie Meat Pie “Floater” on the 22 day Waltzing Matilda tour of Australia and New Zealand. During theSplendours of China 18-day tour, the “Cuisines of the Region” theme offers the opportunity for travellers to try Sechuan, Shanghainese, Hot Pots and other types of Chinese food. And for travelers on the 17 daySplendours of South America tour to Chile, Argentina and Brazil, one of the themes, “Lifestyles and Native Culture” introduces Spanish and Inca Civilizations and the story of the Rio Carnival

Goway’s professional North American Tour Directors accompany the groups and know these destinations intimately, having been there repeatedly. For more information on Goway’s Holidays of a Lifetime, visit the website at Goway.com/hol, or request a copy of the South Pacific, Asia, Africa or Latin America travel planners by calling 1-800-387-8850, or by visiting Goway.com/brochure.

Goway Offers Longstay Tropical South Pacific Island Escape

Web BannerIslandsEscapes…by Goway has launched a range of long-stay getaways to the exotic Cook Islands priced attractively from $2819CAD.

The Cook Islands is populated by warm, welcoming people whose connection to their heritage and unspoilt natural environment permeates almost every aspect of their daily lives. An authentic and vibrant experience is what one will encounter while visiting the Cook Islands.

Vacations include round trip airfare from Los Angeles with Air New Zealand, meet and greet on arrival in Rarotonga, round-trip airport transfers, and 26 nights accommodation, plus early check in and late check out. There are also a wide variety of value-added offers at the resorts, including daily breakfast, a free $500 Black Pearl Pendant, free car or scooter rental, and meal credits.

Travellers are eligible to claim $200 cash back on their trip, if booked by November 24 for travel completed by Feb 28, 2010 More information on Cash In on The Cooks rebate program is available at www.goway.com

Travel agents also benefit; all Travel Agents that make a Cook Islands Long Stay Reservation with Goway with $25 per person loaded to their Goway Incentive Card.

For more information on these and many other great escapes please refer to the IslandsEscapes’ World’s Most Idyllic Islands brochure, visit www.islandsescapes.com or call 1-800-667-6601.