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Springboard Vacations

At Springboard we believe in travel experiences that are far from ordinary – vacations that are indulgent, fun and stress-free. We believe in making sure every detail is just right, that where you lay your head at night is not just a bed but a place to with a story. We believe in authentic experiences that change our outlook on the world and enrich us.

We believe in designing unique itineraries as individual as every person we have the privilege of creating a trip for. No two are the same. We understand that this may be your only time to a part of the world that we love, so we want to make sure it’s unforgettable for all the right reasons. We love to share our passion with you as much as we love discovering new experiences during our own travel – things that you can fall in love with too. This keeps our work fresh and our passion high.

We understand that planning a trip can be an overwhelming task with way too much information to sort through and way too much at stake to get it wrong. We understand that you want value for money and someone who really understands both the destination and you, the traveler - to draw on their experience to guide you through this process. You need an advocate to find the best options for you and deliver you everything you have dreamed of. Because this is not just a trip it’s your bucket list coming to life!

Springboard Vacations is part of the following groups: Australia Travel Agents, Fiji Travel Agents, French Polynesia Travel Agents

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Recent Trip Reviews for Springboard Vacations

Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queen...
New Zealand | Dec 7 - Dec 13, 2025

Lorin
Lorin W.
Ashburn, VA | Reviewed on Dec 15, 2025
Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queenstown Trip We had an unforgettable trip from start to finish - we kicked things off in Picton, where we did a combo tour of the Marlborough wine region and seafood cruise in the Marlborough Sounds. Both expereinces saw a great balance of stunning views, calm waters (on the cruise), and nonstop photo opportunities. Christchurch surprised us with its charm, walkability, and mix of historic and modern vibes. We did a self-guided walk of the... Read more

Blenheim / Christchurch / Lake Tekapo / Queenstown Trip

We had an unforgettable trip from start to finish - we kicked things off in Picton, where we did a combo tour of the Marlborough wine region and seafood cruise in the Marlborough Sounds. Both expereinces saw a great balance of stunning views, calm waters (on the cruise), and nonstop photo opportunities.

Christchurch surprised us with its charm, walkability, and mix of historic and modern vibes. We did a self-guided walk of the town, including a stop at The Church Pub for food and drinks.. It made a great transition point before driving deeper into the South Islands natural beauty.

Lake Tekapo featured unreal turquoise water, open skies, and peaceful atmosphere. It may have been one of the most photogeneic places we visited on this leg of the trip.

Wanaka was a wonderful lake town, where it featured one of the most photographed trees in the world. I wish we could have spent another day here to experience the town more.

we wrapped up our trip in Queenstown, where you could easily spend a week there and not do everything. While there though we did get a chance to do a number of excursions, including a plane ride, horse-back ride, jet-boat ride, and river funyak excurions, where we were able to see the snow-capped mountain ranges known famously in many Hollywood blockbusters, including Lord of the Rings, Narnia, and Misson Impossible!

Between the scenery, activities, and unforgettable moments captured, our NZ trip exceeded expectations, it is purely a magical country, and the itinerary provided by KimKim was the perfect way to experience it.

Hotel Reviews
Browns Boutique Hotel
Queenstown
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Edgewater Wanaka
Lake Wānaka
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Peppers Bluewater Resort
Lake Tekapo
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
The Mayfair
Christchurch
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Escape to Picton
Picton
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Dec 16, 2025

Hi Lorin
How wonderful to hear your feedback! Thanks so much for taking the time and I am so glad you loved New Zealand!
Ruth

Down Under Dreams: A Trip We'll Never Forget!
Australia | Nov 20 - Dec 4, 2025

Kaitlin
Kaitlin J.
Brooklyn, NY | Reviewed on Dec 09, 2025
Paula did an incredible job creating an absolute once in a lifetime vacation for me and my bestie! It was everything we asked for plus more! From climbing the Sydney Bridge to riding camels in the outback to snorkeling in the great barrier reef and sipping the delicious wines in Yarra Valley to hanging out with the locals (wallabies, Koalas, kangaroos, wombats, the list goes on). We learned so much about the Aboriginal people, the eco systems and all the different things that make Australia... Read more

Paula did an incredible job creating an absolute once in a lifetime vacation for me and my bestie! It was everything we asked for plus more! From climbing the Sydney Bridge to riding camels in the outback to snorkeling in the great barrier reef and sipping the delicious wines in Yarra Valley to hanging out with the locals (wallabies, Koalas, kangaroos, wombats, the list goes on). We learned so much about the Aboriginal people, the eco systems and all the different things that make Australia so unique! All of our tour guides had a real passion for what they do and you could tell none of this was a job to them, it was a passion! Paula you really brought the dream to life, thank you!!

Local specialist: Paula Adams
Paula
Paula Adams
Local specialist in California and Australia | Replied on Dec 11, 2025
G'day Kaitlin, Thank you so much for your amazing review — it truly made my day! I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that your trip was everything you hoped for and more. From the Sydney Bridge climb to camels in the Outback, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, meeting Australia’s iconic wildlife, and enjoying the Yarra Valley — it sounds like you embraced every moment! It means so much to know that the experiences, guides, and cultural connections resonated with you both. I’m grateful I could... Read more

G'day Kaitlin,

Thank you so much for your amazing review — it truly made my day! I’m absolutely thrilled to hear that your trip was everything you hoped for and more. From the Sydney Bridge climb to camels in the Outback, snorkeling the Great Barrier Reef, meeting Australia’s iconic wildlife, and enjoying the Yarra Valley — it sounds like you embraced every moment!

It means so much to know that the experiences, guides, and cultural connections resonated with you both. I’m grateful I could help bring your dream vacation to life.

Thank you again for your kind words. It was a joy working with you, and I hope to help you plan your next South Pacific adventure whenever you're ready!

Cheers,
Paula

Everything was first class except the very la...
New Zealand | Nov 17 - Nov 26, 2025

Ron
Ron Z.
Chicago, IL | Reviewed on Dec 03, 2025
Everything was first class except the very last night. I know John Mattarella was a little kind in his words, but I won’t mix the words that was way beneath what you guys should’ve gave us. Everything was excellent until that moment it was like going to a hostile quite honestly is bullshit but everything else was great except exceptionally great except that last moment, which then the last moment is what you remember I hope for your future guests you get rid of that location cause that was a... Read more

Everything was first class except the very last night. I know John Mattarella was a little kind in his words, but I won’t mix the words that was way beneath what you guys should’ve gave us. Everything was excellent until that moment it was like going to a hostile quite honestly is bullshit but everything else was great except exceptionally great except that last moment, which then the last moment is what you remember I hope for your future guests you get rid of that location cause that was a joke again thank you for everything with a great time John my wife, Yvonne, and Heather did all the coordinating with you. I was a silent partner and like said it was great fantastic over the top until last night. Quite honest I think we should get a refund for that night, but that’s beside the point please do better for your next guest on that port otherwise spot on thank you Ron Zielinski

Hotel Review
Oaks Auckland Hotel (Prev. Nesuto Stadium Auckland)
Auckland

This felt like a hostile nothing on the walls, pure white twin size beds after having a first rate first class top-notch experience of first place places we’ve been to and then we go to this hostile looking place. It was clean and nice, but it wasn’t the first class experience that we had through Kim Kim and should’ve stayed throughout the trip.

Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Dec 03, 2025

Hi Ron

Many thanks for your feedback on the airport hotel that you had for the last night. I will certainly advise all our staff and take it off our selling list. I am glad you enjoyed all your trip to that point. We usually use the Novotel or Pullman so I am not sure why Jannie chose this hotel unless availability was tight. I really appreciate your feedback.

Kind regards
Ruth

Two weeks in New Zealand
New Zealand | Oct 21 - Nov 2, 2025

K
Karen C.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Nov 15, 2025
I connected with Kim Kim and Ruth only a mere month and a half before our scheduled trip to New Zealand. Despite the late notice Ruth stepped up, got some preliminary information on our interests, and curated an amazing two week self guided tour of the North and South islands. Every single event, from group tours to picking up our rental cars with driving directions in tow, went off without a single hitch. We had so many amazing experiences along the way it’s hard to choose the best, but... Read more

I connected with Kim Kim and Ruth only a mere month and a half before our scheduled trip to New Zealand. Despite the late notice Ruth stepped up, got some preliminary information on our interests, and curated an amazing two week self guided tour of the North and South islands. Every single event, from group tours to picking up our rental cars with driving directions in tow, went off without a single hitch. We had so many amazing experiences along the way it’s hard to choose the best, but I will say if you get the chance to kayak at night in the glow worm caves in Rotorua: DO IT! Amazing. Even in the rain. Thank you so much Ruth for the attention to detail, the quick availability and the amazing organization. We will definitely be in touch for our next adventure.

Activity Reviews
Auckland Private Transfer International Airport to Hotel
Auckland Private Transfer International Airport to Hotel
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
I
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Welcome to Rotorua
Welcome to Rotorua
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Introducing Te Papa Tour and Museum visit
Introducing Te Papa Tour and Museum visit
Wellington
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Wellington Private Transfer Hotel to Ferry Terminal
Wellington Private Transfer Hotel to Ferry Terminal
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon/Evening Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour
Afternoon/Evening Twilight Wine and Craft Beer Tour
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided
Twilight Glow Worm Kayak Experience - 3 hour guided
Rotorua

The guides were absolutely amazing. Clearly very excited to share information and the beauty of these amazing creatures and their amazing habitat.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Hobbiton - Shared Tour
Hobbiton - Shared Tour
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Queenstown Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
Queenstown Private Transfer Hotel to Airport
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Waimangu Valley Nature Walk & Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise
Waimangu Valley Nature Walk & Lake Rotomahana Boat Cruise
Rotorua
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mitai Cultural Experience & Dinner
Mitai Cultural Experience & Dinner
Rotorua

The host of the evening was absolutely amazing. Sharing his culture and knowledge was truly a passion for him and it translated into an amazing evening.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Zealandia by Night Tour
Zealandia by Night Tour
Wellington
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Interislander Ferry - Wellington to Picton
Interislander Ferry - Wellington to Picton
New Zealand
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Private transfer - Christchurch Railway Station to City Hotel
Private transfer - Christchurch Railway Station to City Hotel
Christchurch
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Glacier Boat Trip -
Glacier Boat Trip -
Aoraki / Mount Cook Village
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Skyline Gondola Ride
Skyline Gondola Ride
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Full Day Milford Sound Glass Roof Van/CruiseVan
Queenstown (NZ)
Quality of Experience
Everyone should take the time for this beautiful part of the world.
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Nov 18, 2025

Thanks Karen! It was a real pleasure working with you and planning your trip. I am so thrilled that you enjoyed your vacation in New Zealand! I hope I can work with you again!
Ruth

Amazing Trip
Seychelles | Oct 31 - Nov 7, 2025

Dania
Dania K.
Italy | Reviewed on Nov 08, 2025
It was an amazing trip thanks to Ruth.
Her questions were on point & helped her discover what I really wanted.
The local agent at Seychelles, Humming Bird, was also helpful & punctual.
Read more

It was an amazing trip thanks to Ruth.
Her questions were on point & helped her discover what I really wanted.
The local agent at Seychelles, Humming Bird, was also helpful & punctual.

Hotel Review
Constance Ephelia

Very attentive staff. Huge resort. Excellent spa services. Excellent food. The only negative thing was that the sunbeds on the shore needed to be cleaner!

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Excellent & courteous staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
VICTORIA & BOTANICAL
VICTORIA & BOTANICAL
Mahe
Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
I’m
Transport
Transfer Airport to Hotel
Transfer Airport to Hotel
Mahe

Very punctual

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Transfer Hotel to Airport
Transfer Hotel to Airport
Mahe

Thank you to the driver & the lady who helped us with the bags & the fast track check in.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
PRASLIN TOUR WITH VALLEE DE MAI & ANSE LAZIO
PRASLIN TOUR WITH VALLEE DE MAI & ANSE LAZIO
Mahe

We loved Elvis our guide & the driver who was with us in Mahe.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Ruth Grau
Ruth
Ruth Grau
Local specialist in Adelaide, Australia, & Palm Springs, USA | Replied on Nov 08, 2025

Oh I am so happy to read this! I am so glad you had a wonderful trip to this stunning part of the world!

Ruth

Trip of a lifetime; thank you Liz!!
Australia | Oct 10 - Oct 28, 2025

Rosemary
Rosemary S.
Los Angeles, CA | Reviewed on Nov 04, 2025
Liz did a great job planning. Though there were some hiccups, she always did her best to resolve the situation and made us feel like we mattered. She is a gem. We loved snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef; the highlight of our trip. Ben, our guide in the Daintree Forest, was a wealth of knowledge and a pleasure to spend the day with. Gary, our guide for the Great Ocean Road, did a great job despite the rain and some challenging guests. Travis, our guide for the Phillips Island Day Tour,... Read more

Liz did a great job planning. Though there were some hiccups, she always did her best to resolve the situation and made us feel like we mattered. She is a gem.

We loved snorkeling on the Great Barrier Reef; the highlight of our trip. Ben, our guide in the Daintree Forest, was a wealth of knowledge and a pleasure to spend the day with. Gary, our guide for the Great Ocean Road, did a great job despite the rain and some challenging guests. Travis, our guide for the Phillips Island Day Tour, was pleasant, knowledgeable, and passionate about the wildlife. All our tour guides were great as were all our limo drivers, too much to write here.

This was the trip of a lifetime. Very costly but treated so well and such a full, memorable trip we felt privileges to have had such an experience.

Hotel Reviews
Crown Towers
Melbourne

First class hotel. Beautiful room with lots of room, soaker tub and roomy shower. Incredible view of the river. Service was top notch. Pool is incredible but jacuzzi is part of the pool and not very hot. But pool overall was heated so it did not matter so much.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to a lot of activities, restaurants, etc.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Some confusion about cleaning policy (they said only if you called but came the first two day; when counting on it the third night, they did not come but were happy to bring us much needed coffee for the morning!
Sea Dragon Kangaroo Island
Willoughby

Great location if you want to be off the grid but not much nearby. It was all about the kangaroos and the incredible views. They even upgraded our room which was realty nice. Staff were pleasant and helpful. Hot water turned off on accident one morning but manager Joan (?) got it fixed right away and even offered a bottle of wine as compensation for the inconvenience. A wonderful experience.

Authenticity & Character
Location
The rural setting overlooking the sea.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Stamford Plaza Adelaide
Adelaide

Nice hotel, good service, good location. Pool was too cold for outdoor use.

Authenticity & Character
Nice hotel but no strong character.
Location
Close to a lot of activities and public transportation.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Meridian Port Douglas
Port Douglas

More like a condo than a hotel. Room was nice, especially nice balcony and a washer and dryer. Lots of rules made us a little uncomfortable (extensive charges if you get locked out, if you get reported for noise, etc.) . Pool was nice but jacuzzi was not hot (when we asked, we were told it was a “spa” because it had bubbles and owner did not want to turn up the heat. He said he’d check with management and adjusted the heat but it was only a degree warmer, if that. Bottom of the jacuzzi is so rough it hurts to sit on. As we specifically chose this one one to have a good soak after a long day, it was a definite disapppointment.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Jacuzzi needs to be hot and bottom needs to be smoothed out! Longer office hours would be helpful as no one was there before we had to leave for tours or by the time we got back.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was clean. (Though having to clean it, take out the trash, etc. on departure does not add to the feeling of vacation.
Amora Hotel Jamison Sydney
Sydney

Most of the staff were amazing - made you feel special. Needed cream for morning coffee. Got half of an espresso cup at the bar. Next time they said they didn’t have it but I reminded them they did. This time they charge me $5! Not thrilled about. Pool not kept up (always had to get rid of other people’s towels, etc.). Otherwise pleased with the hotel and services.

Authenticity & Character
Nice hotel but not a lot of character. Well appointed. Not sure what you mean by authenticity of a hotel.
Location
With in walking distance of a lot of attractions and easy to access public transportation.
Staff
Very attentive.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Room was clean and comfortable. As noted above, pool could have used more attention.
Activity Reviews
Full Day Phillip Island & Moonlit + Penguin Plus with Dinner
Full Day Phillip Island & Moonlit + Penguin Plus with Dinner
Australia

What a great day! Driver Travis was knowledgeable, pleasant, and passionate about his work. He was a true advocate for the wildlife and their habitat. The penguins were adorable, to say the least. Due to a no- show, we got an upgrade on seating for the best penguin viewing. It was pretty chilly in the evening. A long day but well worth it!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Great Ocean Road Tour with Lunch
Full Day Great Ocean Road Tour with Lunch
Melbourne

This was a great tour. Garry did an awesome job making sire we got to see all kinds of wildlife while being respectful of them and their habitat. It was an amazing day with lots of beautiful scenery, wildlife, etc. Bus was not so comfortable as seats were narrow and it was quite bumpy in the back. He did a good job of dealing with some challenging guests. Rain limited some of the spectacular views/photo ops but you can’t change that. One of our best days despite the challenges!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kangaroo Island -  at Sea Dragon Lodge - third day
Kangaroo Island - at Sea Dragon Lodge - third day
Kangaroo Island

Third day we did the honey tasting, lighthouse tour, Antechamber Bay tour, and gin tasting. Honey tasting was nice and lowkey. Lighthouse Tour was interesting with great views. Antechamber Bay was a nice hike with guide Paul who graciously took us last minute. He was pleasant to spend time with and knows all the plants. Gin tasting was interesting, though I don’t think it will turn me into a gin drinker! It’s hard to rate all these activities together.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kangaroo Island - 2 night experience  at Sea Dragon Lodge - second day
Kangaroo Island - 2 night experience at Sea Dragon Lodge - second day
Kangaroo Island

We did a full day nature tour. Saw lots of amazing things. Driver was knowledgeable and did a great job of getting us to see all the sites but being respectful of the land and wildlife.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Kangaroo Island - 2 night experience  at Sea Dragon Lodge - first day
Kangaroo Island - 2 night experience at Sea Dragon Lodge - first day
Kangaroo Island

The first day we did the Sheep Shearing and Kangaroo Experience activities. The sheep shearing experience included seeing the Kelpie dogs and actual shearing of a sheep. Very interesting and enjoyable. The Kangaroo Experience is basically a guided walk on the property to see the kangaroos when they come out in number in the evening. Learned a lot about the kangaroos.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Uncork the Barossa Valley
Full Day Uncork the Barossa Valley
Adelaide

This was a fun day! Visited four wineries, three for tasting and one for lunch. 7-9 tastings at each winery can be a lot of wine if you drink it all! We had a fun group of people and driver did a great job of remaining professional but enjoying our fun!

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Dolphin Sanctuary Guided Kayaking
Dolphin Sanctuary Guided Kayaking
Adelaide

We did not see any dolphins and it rained most of the time. Did not even see fish! The mangroves were interesting, not so much the ship wrecks but since there were no dolphins, we had to see something. But, despite the rain, it’s always good to be on the water.

Quality of Experience
Part was uncontrollable due to poor weather.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
No transportation provided and getting there was a challenge.
Full Day Skyrail and Kuranda Rail  - Late Start 11:00am - 6:30pm
Full Day Skyrail and Kuranda Rail - Late Start 11:00am - 6:30pm
Port Douglas

Ours was not a skyrail tour; time in Kuranda and train tour. Fun train ride through beautiful country. History is interesting.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Mackay Coral Cay Great Barrier Reef Sail & Snorkel with Lunch
Mackay Coral Cay Great Barrier Reef Sail & Snorkel with Lunch
Port Douglas

The highlight of our trip! Snorkeling was beautiful! There was quite a current at the first stop but staff was very safety conscious and prepared you well. I used a noodle to make it easier. Did not need a wetsuit but they were available. A very special day. No underwater photos, unfortunately. The boat was awesome with a great non-slip deck.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon/Evening Private Daintree and Nocturnal Tour
Afternoon/Evening Private Daintree and Nocturnal Tour
Port Douglas

Please note: this review is for a different tour but it forced me to put in a star review. . We did not do this activity. We did the “Full Day Private Daintree & Cape Tribulation Exclusive Tour (Private Tour).” Tour guide Ben was awesome! Very knowledgeable and passionate.

Welcome to Port Douglas
Welcome to Port Douglas
Port Douglas

Please note: this review is for a different tour but it forced me to put in a star review. . We did not do this activity. We did the “Full Day Private Daintree & Cape Tribulation Exclusive Tour (Private Tour).” Tour guide Ben was awesome! Very knowledgeable and passionate.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Blue Mountains Hike the World Heritage
Full Day Blue Mountains Hike the World Heritage
Sydney

Great day! Animals at the farm were up close. 500 steps up at the end of the hike was tough but I needed the exercise! Guide Kathy was great, knowledgeable about history and wildlife/plants.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Bondi Local Tour
Morning Bondi Local Tour
Sydney

What a fun time. A little stressful as it was my first time surfing at 65 years old! Instructor (Marty, I think) was very patient and took extra time to show us around.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Brekkie with the Whales
Morning Brekkie with the Whales
Sydney

So much fun and saw a lot of whales! Would be a fun cruise even if you didn’t get lucky.

Quality of Experience
They made lots of attempts to make sure we saw whales!
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

Interesting tour, including history and construction. Did not get to see one smaller theater because guide said there was popcorn on the floor - would have rather seen it before clearing than not at all. Had to check you backpack which was nice in a way but also a bit of a pain. Restaurants at the venue were very crowded!

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Sydney

Great overall tour. Driver Nick (?) was pleasurable and knowledgeable, even suggesting photo opportunities, restaurants, etc.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Dec 01, 2025

Liz Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Nov 04, 2025
Hello !!!

I'm glad you enjoyed the trip ! It was so fun to be able to meet you when you parked the car by my house and that gave me the opportunity to take you and pick you up from the airport so we could meet in person and chat before and after the trip !

I hope to be able to create another trip in the near future for you!

Liz

First time trip to Australia—Great experience.
Australia | Oct 17 - Oct 27, 2025

E
Edward B.
Boston, MA | Reviewed on Oct 29, 2025
I had a great experience with KimKim and with my specific advisor, Liz. My trip to Australia was my first trip to Australia and I had no prior ‘in country’ experience. With help from Liz I organized a trip that took me through Sydney, to Uluru, and then onto Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef that was spectacular. I was particularly impressed with the way Liz organized local support through an ‘in country’ partner Southern World. There were a couple of small issues that came up during... Read more

I had a great experience with KimKim and with my specific advisor, Liz. My trip to Australia was my first trip to Australia and I had no prior ‘in country’ experience. With help from Liz I organized a trip that took me through Sydney, to Uluru, and then onto Daintree and the Great Barrier Reef that was spectacular. I was particularly impressed with the way Liz organized local support through an ‘in country’ partner Southern World. There were a couple of small issues that came up during the trip (for example, an Uluru tour guide canceled at the last minute) and the Southern World team was easy to reach and incredibly responsive—got a replacement guide organized for me in less than an hour. Liz was also super responsive and helpful throughout the whole process, from early planning to confirmed details through to all the actual travel. I would happily recommend KimKim and Liz to anyone planning a comparable trip.

Hotel Reviews
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
Sydney

This is a fine hotel, but in a city that is otherwise quite beautiful (Sydney) this hotel is located on possibly the ugliest quarter acre in town—it is built in between two freeway ramps and the view out the window is 100% freeway. Functionally it was fine—clean rooms, nice breakfast, good service at the front desk. But given what i now know to be the alternatives in Sydney next time I go I would prefer a different hotel.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Desert Gardens Hotel
Yulara
Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Port Douglas

This hotel exceeded expectations in every respect. The location is spectacular—in a quiet neighborhood directly across the street from the Four Mile Beach, with 5-10 minute walking access to the best restaurants and shops in Port Douglas. The service was excellent, including a very good included breakfast. And the facilities were excellent. The room included a balcony overlooking the beach and in-room facilities (fridge, stove top, microwave, etc.) and as a result was very comfortable to stay in. Indeed, the room itself was a great destination. If I go back to Port Douglas I will stay at the Peninsula.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Rydges Sydney Airport Hotel
Mascot, Sydney, NSW

This hotel is a classic airport hotel, and I judge aiport hotels by a different standard. When I stay at an airport hotel it is usually immediately before or after a flight and I’m looking for convenience and efficiency. The airport Rydges is super convenient to the international terminal and also just 50 meters from the T8 train line that runs every few minutes straight into Sydney. The room was clean and super functional, and an easy (flat, little car traffic) 5 minute walk from the international terminal. I would recommend it to other travelers looking for an airport hotel to facilitate their connections.

Authenticity & Character
It’s an aiport hotel—character is not its selling point
Location
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Activity Reviews
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Morning Panoramic Sydney Sights
Sydney

A great tour with a super informed and entertaining guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Full Day Outer Reef Mackay Coral Cay (from Port Douglas Hotel)
Port Douglas

A really well done experience from start to finish. A comfortable ship, really well informed and helpful staff, great food, and, of course, amazing snorkeling at the reef.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Afternoon/Evening Private Daintree and Nocturnal Tour
Afternoon/Evening Private Daintree and Nocturnal Tour
Port Douglas

Daintree is amazing, and I had a great experience with my guide who did a great job.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney Opera House Tour
Sydney

A great tour of an amazing building. After the tour we had dinner in the opera house at Bennelong’s — it was superb.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
not really applicable, whole tour is within the opera house
Full Day Private Blue Mountain High Country Eco Tour
Full Day Private Blue Mountain High Country Eco Tour
Sydney

A good tour with an excellent guide.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
A Night at Field of Light
A Night at Field of Light
Uluru

This experience was okay, but not great. Food was a bit mediocre and venue was fine, but not really all that different than the hotel.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Uluru & Kata Tjuta Scenic Helicopter Flight from Ayers Rock Resort
Uluru & Kata Tjuta Scenic Helicopter Flight from Ayers Rock Resort
Uluru

If you like helicopter tours this is a good one.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Nov 06, 2025

Hello Edward!!!

Thanks for your wonderful review. I’m happy you enjoyed the trip and hope to have the opportunity to create another great trip for you and your family in the future. It was a pleasure to work with you!

Liz

Australia journey late August to early September.
Australia | Aug 28 - Oct 12, 2025

Christine & John
Christine & John C.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Oct 16, 2025
Hi Liz, first off I would just like to say that our trip to Australia was just great. All of the plans that you made for tours and drivers went without a hitch. Everyone was on time, friendly, informative, and just fun to be with. Our time in Sydney was great, it is a beautiful city. The tour of the city and the sunset dinner cruise were great again. Everything was on time. No delays at all. Really impressed by the Opera House. The Blue Mountains are absolutely beautiful, the Echoes hotel... Read more

Hi Liz, first off I would just like to say that our trip to Australia was just great. All of the plans that you made for tours and drivers went without a hitch. Everyone was on time, friendly, informative, and just fun to be with. Our time in Sydney was great, it is a beautiful city. The tour of the city and the sunset dinner cruise were great again. Everything was on time. No delays at all. Really impressed by the Opera House. The Blue Mountains are absolutely beautiful, the Echoes hotel Spoiled us. Amazing food, staff, accommodations were comfortable and welcoming. Enjoyed walking around Kafoumba. Scenic world was very informative and fun. What I will say for some of the excursions it took some bit of driving to get there from Port Douglas. Drives were around an hour or a little more to get to The different sites that we were visiting. Outback tasting tour was fun and great, love being out in the country, yet again it was a long day and a long drive. Not sure we needed the Esplanade for a drink at the end of that day as we were tired and we were staying in a very similar setting in Port Douglas. The great barrier reef excursion was perfect. I can’t remember the name of the diving company, but they were very knowledgeable, made us feel very safe, very well informed staff which made the trip out to the reef more interesting. We had no difficulties with renting the car at the airport or returning it, although it was a little nerve-racking at the very beginning, but I think my husband did pretty well driving. I want to thank you for all the time and work you put in into planning our vacation, I think this was a once in a lifetime trip for us, but you never know. Thanks again. Christy

Hotel Review
PARKROYAL Darling Harbour
Sydney

The location was great and the breakfasts were very nice.

Authenticity & Character
Location
Close to shopping, the Harbor, Opera House and Queen Victoria Building.
Staff
Cleanliness & Comfort
Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Oct 17, 2025

Dear Christy and John,
It was an absolute pleasure to work with you on this trip and I am so so happy you enjoyed it so much. Thanks for the thoughtful review.

Congratulations John for driving on "that" side of the road !! I'm sure having Christy as a co-pilot helped !

There is definitely more of Australia to see, and there is always New Zealand, Africa and Argentina which I specialize in. I will be an honour to work with you again.

Best to you and your family the rest of the year and the holidays.
Cheers
Liz

Liz our trip planner did a great job of pl
Australia | Sep 6 - Sep 16, 2025

J
Jean B.
Clayton, MO | Reviewed on Sep 23, 2025

Liz our trip planner did a great job of planning our trip. It took away our need to coordinate transportation and tours. Our accommodations were great in Auckland, Rotorua and Queenstown. The only downside to our trip was the 12 hour day to Milford sound and unfortunately it rained off and on all day.
Otherwise I had a great time in New Zealand. Thank you, Liz and Kimkim
Jean brown

Local specialist: Liz Neal
Liz
Liz Neal
Local specialist in Sydney-Auckland-Los Angeles | Replied on Sep 23, 2025

Hello Jean and Mary,
Thanks for your nice review. I enjoyed working with you and hope to be able to have the opportunity to do it again to one of our other destinations.
I am sorry that it rained during your trip to Milford. If I could control the weather and the airlines It would be amazing :) :)

Wish you a wonderful rest of the year!!
Liz

Paula was amazing at helping us create an exceptional experience
Australia | Aug 30 - Sep 13, 2025

C
Christine M.
Seattle, WA | Reviewed on Sep 21, 2025
Paula was amazing at helping us create the exact trip we wanted to Australia that included Brisbane, Port Douglas, Melbourne and Sydney. Having drivers meet us at each destination made our logistics easy and the tours scheduled in each city were second to none. Read more

Paula was amazing at helping us create the exact trip we wanted to Australia that included Brisbane, Port Douglas, Melbourne and Sydney. Having drivers meet us at each destination made our logistics easy and the tours scheduled in each city were second to none.

Hotel Review
Peninsula Boutique Hotel
Port Douglas

Located close the the restaurants and the beach this hotel was perfect for our time in Port Douglas.

Authenticity & Character
Suite size was very comfortable
Location
Located across from 4 Mile Beach
Staff
We were treated spectacularly for breakfast and happy hour
Cleanliness & Comfort
Laundry facilities need to be cleaned for mildew smells.
Activity Reviews
Full Day Snorkel The Wrecks Day Cruise at Tangalooma
Full Day Snorkel The Wrecks Day Cruise at Tangalooma
Brisbane

We were worried about the possibility of rain in Brisbane but once out on Moreton Island everything seemed better. We went snorkeling amongst the sunken ships and even saw a turtle.

Quality of Experience
Food
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Cruise (from Hotel)
Full Day Outer Barrier Reef Cruise (from Hotel)
Port Douglas

Snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef is not to be missed

Quality of Experience
Food
The buffet was meh
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
Morning Best of Melbourne Bike Tour
Morning Best of Melbourne Bike Tour
Melbourne

Riding with Dave was great. We learned so much about Melbourne and Australia.

Quality of Experience
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Transport
The bikes were is good working condition.
Local specialist: Paula Adams
Paula
Paula Adams
Local specialist in California and Australia | Replied on Sep 22, 2025

G'day Christine,

Thank you so much for taking the time to write a review and sharing your feedback—it really means a lot to me. I’m so happy to hear you had a wonderful experience exploring beautiful Australia. It was an absolute pleasure working with you, and I hope to have the opportunity to help plan another South Pacific adventure for you in the near future.

Take care and please keep in touch. You can email me at: [email protected]

Cheers,
Paula