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TravelEssence UK - Tailor-made holidays through Australia and New Zealand

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TravelEssence UK - Tailor-made holidays through Australia and New Zealand

TravelEssence is a specialist in tailor-made holidays to New Zealand and Australia. What this means is that your holiday with us is completely CO2 neutral.

TravelEssence is an independent, owner-managed Australia and New Zealand travel specialist, first launched in 2006 by New Zealander Andrew Morten. The head office is in the Netherlands with branches in Germany and more recently the UK. You might recognise us as A Journey DownUnder in the UK, but after a recent rebrand, we have taken the parent company’s name of TravelEssence. Founding Partner

And

rew Morten, the founder of TravelEssence, has been at the forefront of small-scale, sustainable tourism in Australia and New Zealand for almost 30 years. He created the company, in essence, to give you the chance to experience the Down Under he fell in love with as a curious and free-spirited child: Natural, beautiful, relaxed, rich in stories and steeped in fascinating cultures. Destinations off the beaten track, where oceans are still clear and blue, creatures are weird and wonderful, and trees older than London. A leading Australia and New Zealand travel specialist in Europe

Over the years, TravelEssence has become a prominent Australia and New Zealand travel specialist in Europe for tailor-made holidays Down Under. Our specialists have lived, worked, and travelled extensively in Australia and New Zealand. We provide expert advice and personal knowledge about the most exclusive accommodations and out-of-the-ordinary travel adventures.

“Travel is supposed to be enlightening and enchanting, beautiful and magical. It’s why we do things the way we do them, focussing on people so that your journey Down Under is far more than just what you see. “ - Andrew Morten. We know our hosts personally and work with them directly

Due to our roots Down Under, we have carefully selected high-quality, eco-friendly places to stay. We focus on properties that host only a few people at a time, or even exclusively just you. We work directly with our suppliers with a simple reservation system that eliminates administration. That means your needs and wishes are managed preferentially and arranged quickly. Commitment to sustainable travel

We are passionate about making travel more sustainable and have taken an action-driven approach to using the positive power of tourism. TravelEssence offsets all carbon emissions from our customers' flights, road travel, and business operations. As of 2020, we have been Travelife Certified for excellence in sustainability. That means that after an extensive environmental, social and financial audit, we comply with several standards around our internal and external operation regarding who we work with and what we offer. An experience Down Under quite unlike what you will find anywhere else

As a company, we have always aimed to be the very best. Over 2000 clients have reviewed and rated their TravelEssence holiday with an average of 9.4 out of 10, based on over 20 criteria. Your journey Down Under should be the best holiday of your life. Combining your wishes with our experience, unique places to stay and things to do, we are confident it will be.

12/06/2026

One trip. Two extraordinary countries. 🌏✨

From Australia’s iconic landscapes and vibrant cities to New Zealand’s dramatic mountains, fiords and warm local hospitality, this 7-week journey is the ultimate way to experience the very best of Down Under. Expect unforgettable wildlife encounters, breathtaking scenery, hand-picked stays and authentic local experiences along the way.

Ready to start dreaming? 👇 Check out this sample itinerary at the link below.

https://hubs.ly/Q04lbXYS0

10/06/2026

Lake Tekapo is one of the most beautiful places on New Zealand’s South Island. 💙

During his trip, travel expert Sjoerd visited this iconic glacial lake in the Mackenzie region, between Christchurch and Queenstown. It is known for its bright blue water, snow-capped mountain peaks and wide-open landscapes. You’ll also find the famous Church of the Good Shepherd here, one of the most photographed churches in New Zealand.

Did you know Lake Tekapo’s distinctive turquoise colour comes from tiny rock particles carried down from the glaciers? It gives the lake its almost otherworldly glow.

Be inspired by Sjoerd’s journey and discover what a tailor-made holiday through New Zealand could look like.

05/06/2026

🚴‍♂️ Adventure awaits on the Lake Dunstan Trail.

Travel specialist Sjoerd hopped on an e-bike to tackle one of New Zealand’s most spectacular cycling routes. Stretching between Cromwell and Clyde, the Lake Dunstan Trail winds its way past crystal-clear waters, dramatic rock formations, vineyard landscapes and some of Central Otago’s most breathtaking scenery.

The trail is manageable for many active travellers, but you’ll need some confidence on an e-bike. With climbs, descents and narrow lakeside sections, it’s a brilliant mix of adventure and natural beauty.

Would you give this trail a go?

02/06/2026

White sand, clear blue water and quiet beaches; welcome to Jervis Bay. 🌊

Travel specialists Gerbrich and Juna recently explored this peaceful stretch of the New South Wales coast, around three hours’ drive from Sydney.

Known for the bright white sands of Hyams Beach, Jervis Bay is made for slow days by the water, coastal walks and wildlife watching.

Explore hidden beaches, hike through national parks or, with a bit of luck, spot dolphins, whales or kangaroos – a beautiful addition to an Australian road trip. 🌿

28/05/2026

Australia away from the crowds 🇳🇿

Travelling outside of peak season is a great way to experience Australia’s incredible beauty. You'll find quieter beaches, peaceful walking trails, and more space to experience the country at a slower pace. 🌿

Across many regions, the temperatures are pleasantly mild, making it ideal for scenic road trips, time in nature, and long days exploring without the summer crowds.

From watching wildlife in Tasmania, discovering the vineyards of South Australia, or exploring the coastline of New South Wales, travelling beyond the busiest months brings a more relaxed and personal feel to your journey.

This is a side of Australia many travellers miss: slower, calmer, and every bit as memorable. ✨

Considering an Australia holiday outside the peak season? Our travel specialists can help you plan a journey at just the right time for you.

26/05/2026

In the Blue Mountains, it’s all about space, stillness, and time in nature. 🌿

Not far from Sydney, our travel specialists Gerbrich and Juna discovered a completely different side to New South Wales: eucalyptus forests, deep valleys, dramatic lookouts, and that wonderful feeling of being far from the city.

The Blue Mountains take their name from the soft blue haze that hangs above the valleys, created by the oils released from millions of eucalyptus trees. 💙

It’s a brilliant contrast to Sydney. Days can be spent walking scenic trails, spotting wildlife, and exploring local villages and cafés. Then, as night falls, the lack of city lights often reveals a beautifully clear, star-filled sky. ✨

Peaceful, wild, and full of fresh mountain air, the Blue Mountains make a memorable addition to a holiday in Australia.

Fancy adding the Blue Mountains to your Australia itinerary? Our travel specialists can help shape a journey that suits you.

21/05/2026

A peaceful escape from the buzz of Sydney. 🍷🌿

Travel experts Gerbrich and Juna recently spent time in the Hunter Valley, one of Australia’s oldest wine regions, and a brilliant place to slow down.

Here, days are made for long lunches among the vines, visits to small, characterful wineries, and quiet moments watching wildlife wander past your accommodation.

The region is especially known for its Semillon wines. This fresh white has been made here since the 19th century and is now considered among the best in the world. 🍇

Beyond the cellar doors, the Hunter Valley is all about taking things at a relaxed pace: scenic walks, local produce, and unhurried afternoons looking out across the vineyards

Fancy adding the Hunter Valley to your Australia holiday? Our travel specialists can help shape a route that feels just right for you.

19/05/2026

Discover Sydney from the water. 🇦🇺

Travel specialists Gerbrich and Juna are currently in Australia and began their trip in Sydney. Of course, no visit is complete without a wander past the Opera House or a stop at Bondi Beach, but seeing the city from the water is something else entirely.

Hop on the ferry to Manly Beach and take in the skyline, Harbour Bridge and Opera House as you go. Or opt for a small-group boat tour for a quieter, more laid-back view of the city.

Sydney has a brilliant mix of city buzz, calm waters, beautiful beaches and scenic coastal walks. 🌊 And let’s be honest… with views like this, it’s easy to see why so many travellers fall for it straight away. 😍

Dreaming of Australia? Our travel specialists would be delighted to help plan a tailor-made route that includes Sydney and its stunning coastline. 🇦🇺

14/05/2026

🇳🇿 4 weeks in New Zealand

Snow-capped mountains, quiet coastal roads, native forests and unforgettable wildlife encounters. This 4-week journey through New Zealand brings together the very best of both islands at a relaxed pace.

Think scenic drives through dramatic landscapes, evenings in cosy lodges and plenty of time to properly soak it all in, rather than rushing from place to place.

From geothermal wonders and Māori culture in the North Island to the lakes, fjords and alpine scenery of the South Island, this is the kind of holiday that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.

👇 Take a look at our sample itinerary below and see what 4 weeks in New Zealand could look like.

https://hubs.ly/Q04gslCc0

12/05/2026

💰 Planning a holiday, with clear costs, even when things feel uncertain

We know many of you are wondering how the wider global picture might affect holiday prices. The good news is that any changes remain manageable and can be planned for.

With transparent planning, carefully chosen routes and our years of experience, we’ll help you keep a clear eye on your budget, with no hidden costs or nasty surprises.

Address

1 Bridge Place
London
SW1V1QA

Opening Hours

Monday	9am - 5:30pm
Tuesday	9am - 5:30pm
Wednesday	9am - 5:30pm
Thursday	9am - 5:30pm
Friday	9am - 5:30pm

Website

http://www.travelessence.co.uk/

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