Blake Travel

25/02/2025

Have you witnessed New Zealand’s raw beauty?

Hapuku Lodge + Treehouses sits between the Kaikōura Seaward Mountain Ranges and the Pacific Ocean, offering five luxury free-standing treehouses—each designed to bring you closer to the surrounding wildlife and panoramic views. Inside, every space boasts custom-made furniture, fireplaces, and spacious soaking tubs, ensuring a cosy retreat after days spent birdwatching, surfing at Mangamaunu, or exploring local marine life.

Sustainability is woven into every part of Hapuku’s story. A tree is planted for every night booked, the lodge sources fresh produce right from its own gardens, and a portion of every stay is donated to local marine mammal research.

From the on-site spa and solar-heated lap pool to the acclaimed dining and scenic decks, every moment at Hapuku Lodge + Treehouses is a chance to embrace nature while nurturing it in return.

Contact Blake Travel to plan your escape to this one-of-a-kind Kaikōura haven.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

23/02/2025

Thank you, Joe, for sharing your kind words and for recommending us! We truly love going the extra mile to make every trip unforgettable.

We look forward to helping you plan again in the future!

20/02/2025

Golden Eagle Luxury Trains’ is making a much-anticipated return to China with 3 incredible new journeys.

Each itinerary unfolds the ancient wonders and vast cultural tapestry of the Silk Road, all while you travel in signature comfort aboard the Golden Eagle Silk Road Express and the iconic Golden Eagle.

Here they are:

🛕The Grand Silk Road: A sweeping 22-day voyage from Beijing to Central Asia, exploring legendary trade route cities.

🛕China & Tibet Rail Discovery: Journey across the world’s highest railway to Lhasa, delving into both breathtaking landscapes and vibrant local culture.

🛕Ancient China by Private Train: Embark on an immersive exploration of Beijing, Xi’an, and beyond, traversing historic heartlands in unrivalled style.

Spaces are limited for this historic return. Contact Blake Travel today to secure your place and experience the Silk Road’s timeless allure.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

18/02/2025

The pinnacle of southern hospitality is right here at The Rees Hotel, perched on the shores of Lake Whakatipu with sweeping alpine views of the Remarkables. Whether you choose a stylish hotel room, a spacious apartment, or one of the five opulent Residences, you’ll enjoy five-star comfort, world-class dining, and effortless access to Queenstown’s famed outdoor adventures.

When you choose to build your next NZ holiday at The Rees Hotel you'll experience:

True South Dining: Award-winning chef, local ingredients, and an impressive wine cellar featuring both fine Bordeaux vintages and New Zealand favourites.
Luxurious Residences: Three-bedroom, three-bathroom havens with a private whirlpool bath and in-room concierge service.
Thoughtful Amenities: Daily servicing, complimentary WiFi, shuttle and ferry services into Queenstown, mountain bikes, and secure underground parking with EV charging stations.
24-Hour Curated Experience: Personal travel planners, bespoke tours, and priority bookings ensure a seamless stay from arrival to departure.

Discover The Rees Hotel for yourself, where heritage meets modern elegance in the heart of Queenstown. Contact Blake Travel to book your South Island retreat today.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

15/02/2025

Picture yourself cycling through Hawke’s Bay’s gorgeous vineyard-dotted landscapes on a comfortable e-bike, guided by a local expert.

🍷Spend the day sampling top wines, breathing in fresh air, and working up a pleasant appetite.

🛌As evening falls, retreat to the welcoming embrace of Wallingford Homestead, described as “possibly the most welcoming place in the world.” Here, a cosy bed, delicious food, and tranquil surroundings await—perfect for unwinding after an active day.

Let Blake Travel handle the details so you can savour every sip, sight, and moment of relaxation.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

13/02/2025

Experience the Ultimate in Luxury at Sea with Explora Journeys

Discover a world where European elegance meets ocean-inspired wellness, exclusive 5-star dining, and state-of-the-art suites—all curated by the legendary Aponte family. Explora Journeys offers an unparalleled modern luxury cruise experience that redefines travel at sea, complete with immersive entertainment, premium shopping, and unique multi-generational journeys designed to create unforgettable memories.

And now, we have extraordinary deals for you:
⛴️Enjoy up to AUD 1,500 in Destination Experiences Credit with the Unique
⛴️Oceans Offer (book by 28 February 2025 on selected journeys)
⛴️ Take advantage of the early booking and extended journey benefits
⛴️ Special solo traveller fares
⛴️ Generous savings for additional guests and younger travellers.

Don’t miss this chance to set sail on a voyage where every detail is crafted for sophistication and discovery.

Book with Blake Travel today and let Explora Journeys elevate your next adventure on the high seas.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

11/02/2025

Berri is now expanding the Blake Travel business In Gippsland ✈️

Our latest expert to join the East Regional View is Berri from Blake Travel.

Blake Travel will be featuring with us from edition 3 with some exciting destinations to tick off your bucket list. Thanks for joining us Berri, we can't wait to see all the exciting and exotic places you have to share with us.

What inspired you to specialise in this field, and how long have you been working in it?
I had worked in retail and hospitality for most of my working life, when a friend suggested that I would be great in travel, I started in 2006, so I have been in the industry for almost 20 years. I loved the work from the moment I started, its been challenging and extremely rewarding, and above all so much fun.

What’s the most significant trend or change you have observed in your area of expertise recently?
Customers don't want 'cookie cutter' holidays, with the trend moving towards more personal, unique and boutique holiday experiences.

What’s one common misconception about your field that you’d like to debunk?
The biggest misconception in the industry is that we 'rip off' or 'over charge' customers, that we charge more than booking online, there have been many of my clients who have booked online prior to booking with Blake Travel, or even with me when I worked for FlightCentre that are repeat clients because they know that they don't have the issues of waiting on hold to talk to an online 'person' with regards to changes, emergencies etc. You cant get a personal experience from an online booking platform.

What’s a recent challenge in your industry that you have tackled?
The challenge of asking my customers who are booking with me to pay a 'service fee' for flight only bookings, as sadly all airlines have stopped paying the agents any kickbacks for booking with them. Prior to COVID, airlines would pay what we in the industry call commissions, to book them.

What’s the most valuable lesson or insight you have gained from your experience in this field? That every customer is widely different and require different styles of service.

What keeps you busy when you are not working?
Outside of my workday, I spend time with my daughter and my closest friends who are family, I love to cook, my daughter and I go camping, we travel, I'm a huge history buff so I love reading and learning about cultures and history. I also love the live music scenes and try to get to see live music as much as possible.

10/02/2025

Looking for a leisurely escape with jaw-dropping coastal views and indulgent culinary experiences?

This stunning 6-Day Coastal Chic Tour is your ticket to exploring some of New Zealand’s most captivating regions—complete with luxury stays and breathtaking train journeys.

Package Inclusions:

▪️4 Days Car Hire with Europcar (Ford Escape Hybrid)
▪️1 Night at Hapuku Lodge, Kaikōura (Lodge Room)
(Includes breakfast, minibar & a three-course dinner)
▪️2 Nights at The Marlborough, Blenheim (Deluxe Room)
(Includes breakfast, canapés & a three-course dinner)
▪️Coastal Pacific Train Journey from Picton to Christchurch
(Includes Scenic Plus Dining Experience)
▪️One-Way Transfer from Christchurch Railway to your hotel
▪️2 Nights at The Mayfair, Christchurch (Top of House King)
(Includes breakfast & a welcome drink on arrival)

From $3,590 per person

Ready to discover a different side of New Zealand? Book with Blake Travel today and let us handle the details so you can soak up every coastal moment.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

08/02/2025

Have you ever wanted to explore the Top End but with so much to see, you're not sure where to start?

Infinity Holidays has introduced two brand-new itineraries in collaboration with Tourism NT and they showcase the absolute best of the Top End and the Red Centre, all you have to do is book!

From towering waterfalls and croc encounters in Kakadu to hot air balloon rides and fine dining under the Field of Light near Uluru, you're going to get all the best bits of the magical Northern Territory.

🌄Tour One: Red Centre (7 Days / 6 Nights Self-Drive)

Alice Springs → Kings Canyon → Uluru
Includes historical tours, Outback ballooning, breathtaking ridge walks, Aboriginal cultural experiences, and dining under the stars.
From $3,619pp twin share

🌄Tour Two: Top End (8 Days / 7 Nights Self-Drive)

Darwin → Kakadu → Katherine → Darwin
Enjoy a sunset harbour cruise, thrilling jumping croc tour, and a serene cruise through the NitNit Gorge.
From $1,699pp twin share

Reach out to Blake Travel for more details and let us tailor your NT adventure to suit your style.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

06/02/2025

If there was ever a great time to book your next holiday, it's now.

Reserve your premium tour across the globe with Insight Vacations in 2025 and indulge in the sunlit flavours of Spain & Portugal, explore the pristine fjords of Scandinavia or uncover the rich tapestry of Eastern Europe. Each journey promises top-tier dining, immersive cultural encounters, and lavish comfort. Here is a taste of the options available:

Amazing Spain & Portugal: 9 Days | 2 Countries | 9 Cities
Grand Scandinavia: 20 Days | 4 Countries | 17 Cities
Highlights of Eastern Europe: 14 Days | 6 Countries | 9 Cities

Embrace new cultures, discover fascinating histories, and indulge in top-tier dining and accommodations.

Ready for an adventure? Book with Blake Travel and elevate your next holiday with Insight Vacations.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

04/02/2025

Europe is calling, and with 20% off all Contiki trips, plus an extra 5% off Europe Summer Trips, now is the perfect time to answer!

Whether you’re dreaming of sun-soaked islands or iconic cities, these adventures are your ticket to unforgettable memories:

▪️Greek Island Hopping
11 Days | 1 Country
Crystal-clear waters, whitewashed villages, and vibrant nightlife—explore the best of Greece with ease.

▪️European Discovery
12 Days | 7 Countries
Discover Europe’s most iconic destinations in one epic journey, packed with must-see landmarks and cultural highlights.

▪️Croatia Island Sail
8 Days | 1 Country
Set sail through Croatia’s stunning Adriatic coastline, hopping between hidden coves, historic towns, and turquoise waters.

These deals won’t last long, so secure your spot today. Book with Blake Travel and start counting down to the adventure of a lifetime!

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

01/02/2025

Make 2025 your greatest adventure yet!

Trafalgar’s BIG Tour Sale is calling your name, offering savings of up to $2,200 per couple on select 2025 tours. Here are just a few of the journeys waiting for you:

▪️European Traveller
8 Days | 5 Countries | 9 Cities
Dive into Europe’s iconic highlights—from quaint old towns to lively city squares—in an eight-day whirlwind that leaves you with stories to share for years to come.

▪️Best of France
13 Days | 2 Countries | 18 Cities
Wander cobblestone streets in Paris, savour wine in sun-kissed vineyards, and find joy in every charming village along the way. It’s France at its most magical.

▪️Scenic Parks Explorer
15 Days | 1 Country | 21 Cities
Experience America’s stunning national parks—think dramatic canyons, sparkling lakes, and towering rock formations that bring you closer to nature than ever before.

These spots fill up fast, so lock in your adventure soon. Book with Blake Travel today and let’s make your 2025 travel dreams a reality.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

29/01/2025

Thank you for your wonderful review, Beth!

We’re so pleased to hear that our team were able to organise your trip so efficiently, keeping you updated on flight changes and offering seamless alternatives. It’s our mission at Blake Travel to ensure every holiday is stress-free and perfectly tailored.

Thank you for recommending us, and we look forward to creating more memorable journeys for you in the future!
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➡️.travel.agency⁠⁠⁠⁠

25/01/2025

Discover New Zealand in Style

Experience the beauty of Aotearoa New Zealand with Auckland & Beyond Tours, where expert guides reveal the country’s vibrant history, culture, and wildlife.

Sit back and relax in the comfort of a modern, luxury Mercedes-Benz—enjoying world-class safety standards, personal service, and breathtaking scenery at every turn.

Ready to embrace the moments that truly matter? Contact us today to start planning your unforgettable New Zealand adventure.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

23/01/2025

Get ready to experience more of the world for less.

The 2025 Big Tour Sale has landed, with exceptional deals across three leading brands.

Whether you’re dreaming of Europe’s historic towns, Asia’s vibrant cultures, or the lush landscapes of Costa Rica, now is the time to plan.

What Makes This Sale Big?

🔹Insight Vacations: Save up to $3,000 per couple on select destinations.
🔹Trafalgar: Enjoy $2,200 off per couple on select tours, from Italy and Britain to Japan.
🔹Costsaver: Take 10% off a range of “less toury” tours, from Costa Rica to Britain and Ireland.

Don’t miss out—popular travel dates will sell quickly. Book before 20th February 2025 to secure your unforgettable journey.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

20/01/2025

This November 2025, venture into the heart of Romania aboard the Golden Eagle Danube Express and experience a journey that blurs the lines between history and myth. Transylvania’s dramatic Carpathian Mountains set a captivating stage for exploring medieval fortresses, crumbling castles, and centuries-old legends.

Handpicked Highlights:

🏰Bran Castle: Encounter the haunting aura of Dracula’s legend in this towering fortress.
🏰Peles Castle: Admire a Neo-Renaissance masterpiece that unveils Romania’s regal past.
🏰 Sighisoara: Wander cobblestone streets in the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the inspiration behind Bram Stoker’s iconic vampire.

From fortified churches and ancient forests to gala dinners within castle walls, Transylvania promises enchantment at every turn.

Step into a world where stories come alive and imaginations run free.

Departing November 2 – November 8, 2025. Secure your place now, and let the magic and mystery of Transylvania captivate your senses.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

18/01/2025

Discover a new level of luxury and service at Omana Luxury Villa. Perched in Rocky Bay on Waiheke Island, this 5-star retreat treats you to sweeping sea views, a private beach area, and lush gardens that soothe both body and soul. Air-conditioned, allergy-free, and soundproof units feature modern amenities, from walk-in showers and kitchenettes to free WiFi, private parking, and even an electric vehicle charging station.

Here, comfort and convenience blend effortlessly. Whether you choose to cook in your fully-equipped kitchenette or explore Waiheke’s renowned vineyards and culinary delights nearby, your stay is tailored to your tastes. Add in car rental options, and the island’s treasures are all at your fingertips.

Only 50 km from Auckland Airport, Omana Luxury Villa awaits to whisk you away into a world of sophisticated ease and island tranquillity. Contact us at Blake Travel to curate your perfect Waiheke escape.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.

15/01/2025

Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort sets the stage for the ultimate tropical getaway with its perfect blend of style, adventure, and relaxation. Imagine waking up in your own luxurious beach or over-water villa, exploring a pristine house reef, and ending your day with exceptional dining and beachfront after-dark fun.

This family-friendly haven is located on the western edge of the Baa Atoll, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for dolphin encounters and snorkelling with manta rays at Hanifaru Bay. With 176 villas and pavilions, daily kids’ activities, and world-class diving (voted Best Dive Resort, 2024), there’s never a dull moment.

Just 35 minutes by seaplane from Velana International Airport, Avani+ Fares Maldives Resort is closer than you think—yet feels like a world away. Get in touch with Blake Travel and let us help you plan an unforgettable Maldivian adventure.

➡️ www.blaketravel.com.au
*Please note: Any prices shown here are not guaranteed and are subject to change without prior notice based on dates booked and availability at the time of booking.