I’m thrilled to share that I’ve been nominated for the Outstanding Europe Destination Expert Award, which will be announced at Travel Agent Day Australia in Melbourne this October 2024!
This nomination reflects not only my passion for European travel but also my commitment to continuous learning and staying abreast of the latest trends in European tourism. My love for Europe began nearly 40 years ago with a Contiki tour across nine countries in 21 days. Since then, I’ve explored Europe countless times, often designing my own itineraries to experience multiple countries in one trip. Some of my favorite destinations include Croatia, the Greek Islands, Italy, and Spain, with standout cities like Dubrovnik, Santorini, Florence, and Barcelona holding special places in my heart. I’ve also enjoyed week-long villa stays in Tuscany and adventures through Turkey, Iceland, the UK, and France.
Being nominated for this award is a recognition of my commitment to providing exceptional service and my specialised knowledge of European travel. It underscores my dedication to turning client dreams into unforgettable realities. Every recommendation and itinerary is crafted with care and enthusiasm to ensure an extraordinary travel experience.
As the owner of Holidays Beckon, a boutique travel and cruise agency, you can be assured that you're dealing with someone who cares deeply about your travel plans & is committed to an ongoing partnership beyond your first holiday.
I’m excited to continue sharing my love of travel and expertise with all my clients!
Explore Europe’s history, cultures and breathtaking beauty on an unforgettable cruise vacation. Choose from an array of carefully crafted itineraries offering more time in port to explore unique destinations and iconic landmarks. A lifetime of memories awaits.
NEW! Mediterranean & Adriatic Odyssey
14 nights from
$9,995
pp twin share
COMPANION FLIES FREE + CRUISE PACKAGE • VIKING CRUISES
Departure: 23 Nov 2025 14 nights Athens → Rome
Set sail on a journey along the Adriatic coast. Visit Naples, the birthplace of pizza, and enchanting Syracuse in Sicily. Call at historic cities in Croatia, and explore the town of Chioggia, a gateway to the heart of Venice. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Greek Islands, including picturesque Cephalonia, famous as the setting for Captain Corelli's Mandolin. Join us for an unforgettable experience of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Package includes:
Return economy flight for one passenger up to the value of AU$2,300 per booking.
2 Nights, 4-Star Accommodation in Athens+, including breakfast
One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call
Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)
Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner
24-hour specialty coffees, teas & bottled water
Port taxes, fees & onboard gratuities
Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase
Visits to UNESCO Sites
Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances
Complimentary access to The Nordic Spa & Fitness Center.
SAVE up to $3,750* per stateroom twin share
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per person in Australian Dollars, based on double occupancy. Companion Fly Free offer is a return economy flight for one passenger up to the value of AU$2,300 per booking. It applies to selected 2025, 2026 and 2027 ocean voyages and is to be used towards flights booked by Viking on Viking's choice of airline from major gateway cities in Australia and New Zealand. For the Companion Fly Free offer both guests must be on the same flight booking and fly together in both directions. Should the applicable airfare be higher than the value of the Companion Fly Free offer, guests are required to pay the difference. Any unused portion of the included Companion Fly Free value is forfeited and cannot be transferred towards any other portion of the booking or any other person. Flight offers are only valid if booked in conjunction with selected Viking voyages. All offers are only valid on new bookings made between 1 August 2024 and 15 November 2024 and is a strictly limited offer; conditions apply, subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time unless sold out prior. For full terms and conditions visit viking.com. Supplier: VKG
Highlights of Athens, Adriatic & Italy
25 nights from
$6,445
pp twin share
AIR CREDIT + CRUISE + STAY PACKAGE • HOLLAND AMERICA
Departure: 06 Jun 2025 25 nights Athens → Rome
Several options of things to see and places to go with 2 nights in Athens right in the centre of the city! Discover archaeological sites, historical landmarks, cultural and art museums that will shed light on Greece’s culture and ancient history. Then let the sea carry you to thoughtfully selected ports across Turkey, Greece and Italy on this 21 night cruise from Athens to Rome. Continue the adventure with 2 nights in Rome, convenient to Piazza Navona, the Pantheon and the ancient Via Giulia, one of the most captivating sites in the city.
Package includes:
Transfer Airport to Hotel
2 Nights, 4-Star Accommodation in Athens+, including breakfast
Transfer Hotel to Port
21 night cruise onboard the Oosterdam from Athens to Rome
Main meals~ and entertainment onboard
Transfer Port to Hotel
2 Nights, 4-Star Accommodation in Rome+, including breakfast
BONUS Sightseeing: Rome Camp de Fiori, Ghetto and Pantheon Street Food Tour
Transfer Hotel to Airport
Port charges, government fees and taxes
BONUS AIR CREDIT of $1,000^ per person is included
SAVE up to $3,750* per stateroom twin share
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult in AUD and correct as of 2 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ^Air Credit is per person and included in the package price. Air Credit may be used toward any airfare booked with your Travel Advisor or the value may be deducted from the package if you prefer to book this component independently. +Local tax and resort fees to be collected on arrival, subject to change. Savings is based on the difference between the exclusive package cruise fare and the best available equivalent fare for category VF, twin share. ~Meals are included in selected restaurants onboard; specialty restaurants may incur a surcharge. This offer is valid until 30 Oct 2024 unless sold out prior. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: CRC (HAL106)
Northern Lights & Norway Scenic Rail Journey
21 nights from
$9,999
pp twin share
FLIGHTS + RAIL + CRUISE + STAY PACKAGE • HURTIGRUTEN
Departure: 30 Oct 2025 21 nights Oslo → Copenhagen
Discover the enchanting beauty of Norway with a journey on the picturesque Flåm Railway coupled with a Hurtrigruten Northern Lights cruise. Your journey commences in Oslo, a city renowned for its vibrant arts scene and modern architecture. From here you’ll prepare for your Norway in a Nutshell tour; board the Flåm Railway for a train journey that meanders past lush valleys and snow-capped peaks. Following a hotel stay in Bergen, you’ll embark MS Kong Harald for your cruise. Traverse Norway’s remarkable fjords and delight in the ethereal spectacle of the Northern Lights. Conclude your holiday with a hotel stay in Copenhagen.
Package includes:
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
2 day Norway in a Nutshell tour
Scenic rail journey on board The Flåm Railway
2 night four-star stay in Oslo at the Radisson Blu Plaza Hotel, Oslo
1 night four-star stay in Flåm at the Fretheim Hotel
3 nights stay in Bergen at the Zander K Hotel
2 night four-star stay in Copenhagen at the Tivoli Hotel
All hotel stays include breakfast
11 night full-board cruise on board Hurtigruten’s MS Nordkapp
*Northern Lights Promise – Receive a complimentary Hurtigruten voyage if the Northern Lights do not make an appearance (T’s & C’s apply)
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult twin share in AUD and correct as of 1 Sep 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ^International Airfare is included in the package price, although a surcharge may apply depending on the city of origin . ~Meals are included as per itinerary. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: IGH (NTR2239)
Grand Tour of Ancient Türkiye with Med. Voyage
25 nights from
$10,499
pp twin share
FLIGHTS + RAIL + CRUISE + STAY PACKAGE • HURTIGRUTEN
Departure: 25 Sep 2025 25 nights Istanbul → Athens
From Türkiye’s ancient wonders to Greece’s idyllic coastline, savour a luxury, fully escorted ancient history tour and a breathtaking cruise. Explore the magic of Turkey and Greece, beginning in Istanbul with its lively culture and landmarks. Next, visit historic Ankara, the unique landscapes of Cappadocia, and Konya’s rich heritage. Admire Cotton Castle’s white terraces and Hierapolis’ ancient ruins before uncovering Ephesus’ splendor in Kuşadası. Finish your journey in Çanakkale, discovering the historic sites of Troy, Gallipoli, and the WW1 Anzac Cove landing. Your adventure continues with 10 nights on board Azamara Onward.
Package includes:
All Flights, Taxes & Transfers
4-star hotel stays including breakfast
İstanbul city tour incl. Hippodrome Square, the Blue Mosque, Hagia Sophia & Topkapi Palace
Optional 5am tour to see Cappadocia sunrise
Cappadocia tour including Pigeon Valley, Uçhisar Fort, Pasabag Valley and Avanos Valley
Hierapolis tour including Cotton Castle, Thermal Baths & Amphitheatre
Ephesus tour
Ancient City of Pergamon tour with cable car to the Acropolis of Pergamon
Gallipoli Memorial, Anzac Cove and the Lone Pine Cemetery visit
Complimentary alcoholic & non-alcoholic beverages including house spirits, wine and international beers onboard Azamara Onward, plus pre-paid gratuities and complimentary AzAmazing Evenings® event
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult twin share in AUD and correct as of 1 Sep 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ^International Airfare is included in the package price, although a surcharge may apply depending on the city of origin . ~Meals are included as per itinerary. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: IGH (NTR2239)
Luxury: Isles & Iceland
18 nights from
$15,989
pp twin share
FLIGHTS + CRUISE + STAY PACKAGE • SILVERSEA
Departure: 30 Jun 2025 18 nights Oslo → Copenhagen
Embark on a spell-binding adventure that explores Iceland and some of the most unique places in the British Isles aboard the Silver Wind on a 14 night cruise from Dublin return plus 2 nights pre and 2 nights post in Dublin in 5 star accommodations
Some of the great ports included are: Lunga, Djupivogur, Hofsosm Eskifjordur, Kirkwall and more.
Book now and you can receive up to $3,570 in savings per suite!
Package includes:
Bonus: Air credit of $3,000per person
Private transfer from Airport to Hotel
2 nights pre cruise, 5-Star Accommodation in Dublin, room only
Bonus: Welcome to Dublin – Private Walking Tour
14 Nights cruise from Dublin Return aboard the Silver Wind
Main Meals and entertainment onboard
2 nights post cruise, 5 Star Accommodation in Dublin, room only
Bonus: Wicklow, Avoca (Ballykissangel) and Glendalough – Full Day Rail Tour
Private Transfer from Hotel to Airport
Port Charges, government fees and taxes
Terms & Conditions: Conditions apply. Prices correct as of 19 Aug 24, but may fluctuate if surcharges, fees, taxes or currency change. Offers subject to availability. Agents may charge service fees, rates vary. Payments by credit card will incur a surcharge. Savings is based on the difference between the exclusive package cruise fare and the best available equivalent fare for suite category VI, twin share. ^Air Credit of $3000 AUD per person is included in the package price. Air Credit may be used toward any airfare booked with your Travel Advisor with any amount above the value of the Air Credit to be applied to this booking. Airfare is subject to availability at the time of booking and may be subject to immediate payment and ticketing. The value of the Air Credit may be deducted from the package if you prefer to book this component independently. ~Meals are included in selected restaurants onboard; specialty restaurants may incur a surcharge. Transfer prices are subject to change until confirmed. Availability is limited. Valid until 18 Oct 2024, for new bookings only. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability, and other information before booking. Supplier: CRC (SIL46217)
Ocean cruising can take you all over the world to some fantastic, exotic places, but river cruising can take you straight to the centre of Europe's most beautiful cities, to the heart of the cultural capitals of the world.
AmaMagna - Christmas on the Danube
12 nights from
$11,347
pp twin share
CRUISE + STAY PACKAGE • AmaWaterways
Departure: 18 Dec 2025 12 nights Prague → Budapest
Indulge your passion for awe-inspiring architecture, timeless music, breathtaking landscapes and culinary delights on this beautifully curated itinerary specifically designed for AmaMagna at the most festive time of year. Start your journey with 3 nights in Prague before transferring to Regensburg where you'll board the AmaMagna for a 7-night cruise on the Danube. With plenty of daytime scenic sailing, you'll be able enjoy the extraordinary AmaMagna to its fullest—from the Al Fresco Restaurant to the enchanting decorations and seasonal traditions occurring inside the ship and out. You'll also enjoy a Christmas feast onboard. At the end of your cruise, spend 2 nights in the magical city of Budapest with its ice-skating rink and hidden delights.
Package includes:
3 nights hotel in Prague at the InterContinental Prague (or similar), including daily breakfast
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
Main meals~ and entertainment onboard
2 Nights, 4-Star Accommodation in Budapest+, including breakfast
Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult twin share in AUD and correct as of 31 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: AMA
Magnificent Rivers of Europe
15 nights from
$8,527
pp twin share
CRUISE + STAY PACKAGE • Avalon Waterways
Departure: May to Sep 2025 15 nights Budapest → Amsterdam
Embark on a memorable river cruise through Central Europe, exploring vibrant cities like Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna. Sail through scenic Wachau Valley and Rhine Gorge, visit Melk Abbey and Würzburg’s Bishop’s Residenz, and sample local wines. Discover charming towns and historic cities including Passau, Bamberg, and Cologne. End your journey in Amsterdam with a scenic canal cruise.
Cruise inclusions:
State-of-the-art, luxurious river cruise vessels with modern services and amenities
Deluxe outside accommodations with Avalon’s exclusive Comfort Collection Beds
Avalon Choice excursions that put you in pursuit of history, mystery, culture, and cuisine.
Break free from conventional cruise cuisine and dine as you like, when you like, where you like – always included.
Panorama Suites feature the industry’s only Open-Air Balconies with the widest-opening windows in cruising.
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Free-flowing specialty coffees, teas, filtered-infused water, and treats in your Club Lounge.
Enjoy regional wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner with our compliments. PLUS complimentary happy hour includes free, specialty drinks every day!
Enjoy free-wheeling adventures and on-your-own discoveries with complimentary bicycles and e-bikes as you cruise on land.
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult twin share in AUD and correct as of 31 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: AVA
Turkey In-Style
14 days from
$12,995
pp twin share
FLIGHTS + TOUR • SMALL GROUP - MAX. 16
Departure: Apr to Sep 2025 14 days Istanbul, Turkey
Immerse yourself in the tales of Turkey, uncovering its rich history, vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, all with an added touch of luxury! Discover ancient cities, marvel at unique vistas, wander quaint villages, connect with friendly locals, and more. Get ready to indulge in pure elegance as you savour unique experiences and create memories to last a lifetime.
Package includes:
Return economy-class flights from Australia to Turkey. Taxes included
Economy class flights within Turkey
Airport transfers on the first and last day of tour
9 nights in 5 star hotels
2 nights in a Cave Hotel, Cappadocia
Istanbul, enjoy a tasting of Turkey’s most famous delicacies, including baklava, Turkish delight and Turkish coffee
Istanbul, savour a delicious high tea at the esteemed Kubbeli Lounge at Pera Palace
Sirince, learn to make traditional Turkish cuisine in a hands-on cooking class
Honour the ANZACs at Gallipoli with a specialist guide, as we explore ANZAC Cove, the Lone Pine, Chunuk Bair Memorials, and Johnston's Jolly.
Sample local wines and regional snacks at Karnas Vineyards, a family-owned boutique winery, nestled in the verdant Aegean Valley
Optional tour: Hot Air Balloon Ride in Cappadocia
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult in AUD and correct as of 2 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ^Included air from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth & Adelaide is per person and included in the package price. ~Meals are included as per the itinerary. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: BUN
Portugal Uncovered
14 days from
$11,650
pp twin share
FLIGHTS + TOUR • GROUP SIZE MAX. 28
Departure: 14 Mar, 10 Oct, & 31 Oct 2025 14 days Porto → Lisbon
Discover the most renowned attractions, immerse yourself in the rich culture, and savour exquisite cuisine. The Portugal Uncovered tour has been extensively researched to provide you with a diverse selection of unique experiences, many of which are exclusively available to you and are sure to create lasting memories.
Package includes:
Return economy-class flights from Australia to Portugal. Taxes included
4-star accommodation
Discover the colourful backstreets and hidden squares of Porto
Soak up the beauty of the Douro Valley
Explore the rural paradise of Alentejo
Journey through Lisbon’s most characterful districts on an infamous No. 28 tram
Included Meals: Breakfasts: 11 , Lunches: 10 , Dinners: 11
Touring with guides and entrance fees
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Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult in AUD and correct as of 2 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ^Included air from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth & Adelaide is per person and included in the package price. ~Meals are included as per the itinerary. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: WWU
The Best of Italy, Cinque Terre, & the Amalfi Coast
13 days from
$7,949
pp twin share
RAIL + HOTELS + TOURS • TRENITALIA
Departure: May to Sep 2025 13 days Venice → Naples
Embark on an unforgettable 13-day rail journey that takes you from the romantic canals of Venice, the artistry of Florence, the natural wonder of Cinque Terre, the eternal charm of Rome, and the coastal beauty of Sorrento. This meticulously crafted journey ensures a seamless blend of culture, history, art, and stunning landscapes.
Package includes:
Rail travel as per itinerary
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Venice
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Florence
3 nights in a private apartment in Cinque Terre
2 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Rome
3 nights hotel accommodation with breakfast in Sorrento
Small group city tour of Venice with the Doges Palace and St Mark’s Basilica
Small group city tour of Florence with the Accademia and Uffizi galleries
Small group wine-tasting activity in Manarola
Small-group tour of the Amalfi Coast: Positano, Amalfi and Ravello
Small-group tour of Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius
Private transfer from Naples station to Sorrento & return to Naples airport.
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult in AUD and correct as of 2 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ~Meals are included as per the itinerary. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: RBK
Classic Spain
15 days from
$3,549
pp twin share
RAIL + HOTELS + TOURS • RENFE
Departure: May to Sep 2025 15 days Madrid → Barcelona
Get a real taste of the classic cities of Spain on this immersive 14-night train journey. Travel from the grand capital of Madrid south to beautiful Seville, then on to historic Córdoba, Granada and Málaga, and finally to the coastal, Gaudi-inspired Barcelona. Enjoy time in each city uncovering the main attractions and hidden gems, including sightseeing tours, and special guided tours of historic monuments, including the Alcazar in Seville and the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona. From jaw-dropping scenery to sprawling historic sites and lively city centers, this exploration of Spain will take your breath away!
Package includes:
Rail travel in standard class throughout
3 nights’ total hotel stay with breakfast in Madrid
2 nights’ hotel stay with breakfast in Seville
2 nights’ hotel stay with breakfast in Córdoba
2 nights’ hotel stay with breakfast in Granada
2 nights’ hotel stay with breakfast in Málaga
3 nights’ hotel stay with breakfast in Barcelona
Hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour in Madrid, Seville, & Malaga
Skip the Line: Prado Museum in Madrid
Sightseeing tour of the Great Mosque-Cathedral in Córdoba
Skip the Line: Alhambra Palace in Granada
Multi-day hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour in Barcelona, including the Sagrada Familia
Terms & Conditions: *Conditions apply. Prices are per adult in AUD and correct as of 2 Aug 2024. Prices are subject to change due to fluctuations in charges, taxes and currency even after the deposit is paid. Agents may charge service fees or fees for card payments which vary. Cancellation penalties and conditions apply. ~Meals are included as per the itinerary. Offers may be withdrawn without notice and are not combinable with any other offers unless stated. Please check all prices, availability and other information before booking. Supplier: RBK
