Michelle Barker at JAYES travel

Home
Australia
Newcastle, NSW
Michelle Barker at JAYES travel

Follow me to see great travel ideas and deals. Let me create an amazing experience for you that you
(11)

I am a travel advisor who is passionate about creating amazing experiences around Australia and the world. I love to explore options with my clients and ensure they have all the possibilities before making the decision which best suits their dream holiday. I have been fortunate to travel to most corners of the world, with my favourite places including Africa, India, New York and Hawaii. Any budget

, any destination, any reason - I want to ensure you have snapshots and moments from your holiday that you will remember for a lifetime.

02/07/2024

You are invited!

Join me, along with PONANT CRUISES, A&K SMALL GROUP JOURNEYS AND JOURNEY BEYOND (THE GHAN/INDIAN PACIFIC) to talk all things travel.

Enjoy wine and canapes as we showcase the most exceptional travel experiences on offer by Rail, Land and at Sea. From Africa to Antarctica and everything in between! If you have wanted to cruise the Kimberley or the Med, if you've wanted to take the iconic Indian Pacific to Perth, or if you wanted to explore the exotic corners of the world - there will be something for everyone!

When: Wednesday 17th July, 5.45pm-7.45pm (yes, you will be home in time for the State of Origin)
Where: Novotel Newcastle Beach

RSVP by the 9th July
You can DM me, post below or email [email protected] if you can attend. RSVP is a must! Spaces are limited.

Hope to see you there!

28/06/2024

Dreaming of a WHITE CHRISTMAS?
I've travelled over Christmas before and while I LOVE it, there is always that question of 'what to do on Christmas Day'. Will just booking a restaurant be special enough? Or will there be a restaurant open on Christmas Day??

In Europe, we have tours operated by Albatross European Escorted Tours - who I adore (always fab feedback from clients!). They do specially designed Christmas Tours. All the tours are designed for Aussies - so tipping is included and other must-do activities. Travelling in a group over this time of the year there is someone else in charge of the logistics. Plus you don't have to cook, clean, entertain - it's all done for you, AND you can share the experience with a group of like-minded travellers.

This is one of my favourite's (see map in the photos below).
magine celebrating Christmas in a first-class spa hotel in the stunning Swiss Alpine village of Grindelwald. Plus Christmas Markets, travel on the famous trains... it's a special one!

This is $8887 per person twin share (solo is available too at an extra cost) and it will travel 17-27 December 2024.

If this has been something you've always wanted to do, why wait?
Best to email [email protected] or text me on 0402335919 for more information.

19/06/2024

When a piece of paper in an envelope just doesn’t cut it. Gift vouchers don’t have to be boring!

Someone is about to be very spoilt with a retirement voucher that will send them off to explore the world 🌍

Some cute merch and the skills of the girls at Honest Paper to make it look extra special 🥰✈️💙🌍

Need a present for someone - a gift voucher, experience or add on to a holiday is a great option!!

18/06/2024

Last year I was lucky enough to accompany a group of ladies who walked the last 100 (or so) kilometres of the CAMINO. It was an experience I will never forget. It wasn’t just about the walk, it was so much more than this. It’s sometimes hard to explain that feeling of just putting one step in front of the other for 6days straight (and a lot of hills).

Our experience was made so much more by travelling with Glenyce from Wandering the World 🙌🏼 Her experience, knowledge, funny stories - were what made this trip even better. Glenyce has just released a small group for 12 people to do the same walk that we did in MAY 2025. I can’t recommend this more.

If the Camino has been on your bucket list - DO IT!
you only live once .. make it count.

If this is something you want to chat about, pop me an email to [email protected] - let’s grab you a spot for next year. You won’t regret it

14/06/2024

There is no argument that the window seat is a MUST between Kathmandu and Bhutan ✈️ No need for in-flight entertainment when you have views like these!

You want to be in the ‘A’ seat to Bhutan and the ‘K’ on the way back.

We were so lucky to have perfect clear skies. (One of these mountains is Everest). Just a few of the thousand photos from my camera roll! Check out instagram for video footage.

11/06/2024

Had the pleasure of chatting to these local TAFE students who are about to finish their diploma in Travel/Tourism in Newcastle. Not sure if I inspired or scared them, but with their energy and determination they are sure to do great things.

29/05/2024

BHUTAN 🇧🇹 you’ve been nothing short of amazing. (While I’m completely panicked I haven’t been able to receive texts or calls all week - sorry, I am alive!) This country is beyond anything I could imagine 🧡 I have so much more to share and I can guarantee you will want to pack your bags. Get ready for a few weeks all about Bhutan (and for me to return your phone calls 😅 - back in the office Saturday) x MB

23/05/2024

Today is Buddha Jayanti here in Nepal 🇳🇵 It is a threefold blessed day - marking the birth, enlightenment and passing away of the Buddha.

We’ve explored Bhaktapur Darbar Square (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), and Pottery Square - where we got a quick lesson by the experts. This is real workshop on the edge of the square, where hundreds upon hundreds of pots are made each day. It’s safe to say I shouldn’t give up my day job 😉

Loved this part of the city!

21/05/2024

Part of when I travel for work is that our day includes a site inspection of a property we aren’t staying at. Beyond a website, by seeing a property you can get a better feel of the atmosphere, get a realistic view of the room size, and see where it sits in a city/town.

Yesterday we got to experience Barahi Jungle Lodge 🥰 you know with the beige-on-beige colour scheme that this is definitely my style of lodge. But it’s beyond just that - it’s the attention to detail. The importance and story behind the greenery and ‘jungle’, the shape/curves of the rooms to represent the local style of homes… the sustainability focus, the farm-to-table food concept AND on top of all of this, you are on the edge of the Chitwan National Park (where we saw more than a dozen rhino in one afternoon! More on that later).

With 12 hectares of lush jungle forest, the lodge sits on the banks of the river. they did have to put up a fence a few years ago as they were getting daily visits from a curious rhino. While cute, not sure I want a 3000kg rhino joining me in the pool.

The value here in Nepal is pretty fantastic with a deluxe room here at the lodge less than $300 a night (and even cheaper in low season). This is an area you want to spend two-nights on your itinerary in Nepal - and make sure you give yourself time to visit their day spa!

More to share on our adventures through Nepal. In the meantime, enjoy flicking through and experiencing a little taste of the Barahi Jungle Lodge.

18/05/2024

A little of our first day in Kathmandu🇳🇵
Exploring the PATAN area that our tour guide hails from. Very local, and few tourists exploring the temples and squares. Amazing architecture and culturally, a lot of strange customs I’m getting my head around! More to come on that! Oh but I’m now obsessed by MOMO’s and I’ve officially eaten water buffalo - or ‘buff’ as the locals say.

16/05/2024

Just a one hour flight from Denpasar (Bali) you will find yourself on SUMBA Island. On the East Coast, you'll be spoilt at the KANDORA Villa.

4 individual private villas make up the 14000 square meter estate. Lush gardens, private infinity pool and breathtaking views over the Ocean, Kandora villa rises on the alluring horizon, with perfect poise.

While you can book just one villa - the buy out of the whole property is perfect for a business reward trip, yoga retreat, to celebrate a special occasion - or just because you deserve it!

Included in your stay is
- FULL-BOARD meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, and all non-alcoholic drinks).
- Daily Sumbanese massage by the beach, 30min/person/day.
- Mini bar (replenished daily).
- One scheduled day excursion of Sumba Island traditional kampung village and waterfalls.
- Bicycles are available (subject to scheduling).
- Activities by sea: Bodyboarding, snorkeling around KANDORA, Fishing on the beach (all equipment is provided on site).
- Airport transfers (from Waingapu airport WGP to KANDORA, from KANDORA to Waingapu airport).

Cost? Around $3500 AUD per night for the WHOLE property. It's the perfect add on to your Bali trip and to try something different.

Celebrate adventure and romance with the islands' blend of unspoilt nature and authentic smiles of the locals. Embark on thrilling pursuits through amazing landscapes, encountering the wildlife. Dine before breathtaking vistas, relishing local flavors. Savour heart-warming exchanges with the local communities, as you treasure the chance to “give back” and connect.

Ready to experience it for yourself? DM me, or email [email protected]

12/05/2024

In August, I’m heading back to South Africa (and Zimbabwe/Botswana) with a small group. This is the tour I did right before that time we had to stay at home. It’s an unbelievable journey and an itinerary you won’t find elsewhere. It’s a mix of wildlife, amazing coastline, insane food, culture.. and so much more. We spend two nights on the iconic Blue Train and take a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls. I’ve got some amazing surprises up my sleeve AND I have one room left (double share only). Want to come? This won’t be repeated so you don’t want to miss out! Call or DM me for the full itinerary or questions 🐾🐾

02/05/2024

There's something special about Europe in winter.. there's something more special about saving $14,000 per couple!

I've had some Viking specials come across my emails this morning and they are exceptional value. Cabins are for travel this year (dates are in the image below).

Want to know more? Pop me a DM or email [email protected]

29/04/2024

Join me in South Africa?
I'll be taking a small group (14 max) to South Africa, Zimbabwe and Botswana Aug/September this year. I have one double room left, for 2 adults.

We'll be starting in the Kruger area to look for the Big 5 and kick off our adventure with those unbelievable animal encounters (there really is nowhere like it!); before we'll travel along the Garden Route. Expect the unexpected! Stunning coastal views, visits with locals, amazing food and wine. Our tour is specially designed to do this at a slow pace - not racing through it!

After a few days to explore Cape Town, we'll board the iconic Blue Train for 2 nights! Take the time to relax and take in the scenery - all while enjoying amazing food and drink! Then it's up to Victoria Falls and Chobe National Park for more animals and sunset cruises.

This is an itinerary I love and can't wait to get back and experience. Want to join me?
Call 0402335919 or email [email protected] for the full itinerary.

11/04/2024

So I've been able to do this for awhile, but maybe haven't said anything yet! I CAN NOW BOOK YOUR LUXURY ESCAPES PACKAGES.

Up until recently, these weren't able to be booked through agents and you could only book online. Now, we can help you secure these great packages and manage it along with your flights and rest of your travel arrangements. This way you have everything in one place!

Seen something that caught your eye?
Let me know and let's get that holiday you need happening.

Also if the thing that caught your eye was that the pictures for the Gold Coast and Vietnam are the same, I can't explain it. Let's just let it be and focus on the super great deals 😉✈️

30/03/2024

Very grateful to have been invited to the local village to see the Day 5 of their HOLI celebrations. We’re staying just down the road at Bera Safari Lodge (a whole lot more to come about that amazing experience later!), so before our afternoon safari we popped by to say hi.

Not sure if we were the main attraction as we were welcomed with open arms. The kids surrounding and following us like the pied piper, the older ladies motioning us into the crowd to share in their treats and say hi. The kids asking us to take our picture, and for sure, there are a million photos taken by them of us 😂

The dance (only performed by the men) is the last ritual of the Holi festival in the village. After this, it’s all done again until next year. A very special thing to get a glimpse of.

Videos of the dancing and crowds over on Instagram

28/03/2024

JODPHUR 💙 The Blue City
I can’t quite explain why, but it’s one of my favourite cities to visit in India. There’s something about the chaos of the old town and how alive the streets come in the late afternoon. It’s the beautiful art, textiles, the accommodation we stay at (Ratan Villas), the people, the energy… and of course the blue of the old town. Originally painted to keep the houses cool in summer and the mosquitos away. It’s a special spot in India that you have to have on your MUST visit list 🇮🇳

26/03/2024

There isn’t a better festival to be apart of than HOLI in India.

On this day, people of all ages, castes, and social backgrounds come together, smearing each other with vibrant colors and exchanging good wishes.

The colors used in Holi hold deep symbolism. Red represents love and fertility, green is for new beginnings, yellow is the color of knowledge and learning, blue symbolizes the Hindu God Krishna, and pink signifies the blossoming of relationships. These colors are often made from natural sources like herbs, flowers, and roots, imbuing the festival with an earthy essence.

Holi is not just about colors; it’s a celebration of unity, love, and the triumph of good over evil. It’s a time to forgive, forget grievances, and strengthen the bonds of community and friendship.

💙💜💛💚

24/03/2024

This is why I love India. I’m reminded every time about the beautiful spirit of the people 🧡🤍

12/03/2024

Did you follow along in Sri Lanka and think 'I want to be apart of that!'. I've just released by 2025 Canada and Alaska itinerary. Three weeks, luxe-inclusions, and great travelling companions. PLUS, book quickly and lock in a $1500 per person discount (booking must be in place by Friday 15th March).

Want to see the full itinerary and all the details?
Pop me a DM or email [email protected]

09/03/2024

CALL OUT FOR DONATIONS 🌈
I’m leaving for India in 10 days time - and of the special things I get to do is visit the Sambhali Trust. This beautiful organisation is about empowering women, children and gender minorities in India.

They believe education is a journey of joy and discovery.
That empowerment begins with unity and is fuelled by our collective actions 🙏🏼💕

I reached out to Sambhali to check what they need, what we can bring as a donation to help such a special program in India. Their response “Is it possible to bring delicately used makeup, jewellery etc for our LGBT people coming to the Trust and if possible some stationary especially visual aids?”

So this is my call out if you can help!
Do you have new or hardly used makeup? Some pretty stationary or educational books? (Please keep in mind I only have limited luggage 😂😂) but if you do have anything you can donate - please drop off to the Jayes Travel office by Monday 18th March

08/03/2024

On International Womens Day, I salute you ✈️

The ladies who step outside their comfort zone to travel to somewhere new. To the ladies who take that first big step to travel with a new group of ladies after losing a loved one. To the ladies who’ve climbed mountains, taken adventures, tried new foods, seen new cultures. To the ladies who have said yes to new adventures with us in Australia and around the world.

I am so grateful to have been even a little part of this 💕

Heres to strong women -
May we know them
May we be them
May we raise them

Michelle X

29/02/2024

I definitely don’t take it lightly or for granted, how lucky I am to do this job sometimes. This month took me to California as part of the Travel Advisory Council - and on returning to Oz for 24 hours, I jumped on a plane with 8 clients to explore Sri Lanka (not recommended! My body still doesn’t know what country I’m in). While I share a little bit here, there is much more over on Instagram in my highlights/stories. Go take a look, follow along, tell your friends etc etc. PS if you loved the look of my small group tours, I have a few spots on Africa in August, Finland in Feb and soon to be released - Alaska/Canada 2025!

23/02/2024

We’ve been fortunate to stay in some beautiful properties throughout and Galle is no exception. The is inside the fort walls and the location is unbeatable. Surrounded by amazing cocktail bars (more to come about that), gorgeous restaurants, boutiques and day spas… but inside the hotel - a tranquil haven.

Church street social had exceptional food - egg hopper Benedict 🤯 who knew that was even possible! Plus free afternoon tea each day, and free happy hour from 5pm-6pm.

The staff couldn’t do enough to make our stay extra special and the only problem was we didn’t want to leave.

“Impeccable, Outstanding, Supremo” - words from the group to sum up our time at the fort bazaar. We’ll be back 🥰😉🥂

18/02/2024

A visit to Bluefield tea is a must 🫖
The women pick over 20kgs a day - we were lucky to pluck enough for a tea bag! And yes, the boys are wearing their matching shirts - and if you swipe all the way to the end, you are sure to have a laugh 😂

17/02/2024

How many people can you fit in a Tuk Tuk? Having a ball showing this great group of clients (aka friends) through Sri Lanka. Many laughs and adventures so far!!

14/02/2024

If I had a dollar for every time someone says ‘but the food will be terrible in America’… Yes, there is a tonne of fast food (and are you even in California if you don’t have an in-n-out burger?) BUT the food in California has an amazing variety. so many food-to-table experiences; food with Philippino/Japanese/French/Mexican/Vietnamese influences; plenty of Avo on toast 😉 and incredible wines from the local vineyards. And we had GREAT coffee!!

We were beyond spoilt!
A couple of top recommendations

- dinner at Starbelly in San Fran
- north beach food tour
- wine tasting at Birichino in Santa Cruz
- dinner at Home Soquel in Santa Cruz
- lunch at Schooners in Monterey
- dinner at Stokes Adobe in Monterey
- any meal at La bicyclette in Carmel

Visit California

06/02/2024

What is a holiday without delicious food?
The best way (in my little opinion) to kick off your time in a new city is a foodie tour. Explore the hidden haunts, plus get plenty of suggestions for the rest of your stay.

We explored the North Beach in San Fran with (ask for Bryan). A little history, a little shopping and ALOT of delicious food. Sandwiches from Molinari who have salami so good it was gifted to the pope. Arancini and olives from Sicilian Style Deli. Clam pizza from Golden Boy (and more delicious pizza from Mona Lisa). Focaccia from Liguria Bakery with snacks from Mario’s Bohemian Cigar Store. Throw in some fudge and candy, and you definitely won’t be hungry.

Ps be hungry. Like, very hungry

03/02/2024

Might have found my new favourite San Fran hotel 🥰 The new(ish) is part of the Kimpton family and puts a new modern touch on the Fisherman’s Wharf area.

That bathtub! BIG rooms, complimentary coffee all day, and (importantly 😉) complimentary wine hour of an afternoon. Plus the restaurant on site with a Philippino flair is winning all the awards - can attest the morning tea treats were beyond amazing!

05/12/2023

EXCITED (understatement!) to get the news today I’ve been chosen to join the inaugural California Agent Advisory Council.

I love travelling through the USA and have had some amazing experiences through California. Amazing that I now get to be part of shaping future travel experiences for you to see and do more than you ever expected.

This is from Joshua Tree National Park, where back on 2019 we stayed in the most gorgeous guesthouse, hiked in the park and sat around a campfire watching stunning sunsets. The USA isn’t just about Disneyland and Hollywood (even though they are fun too 😉). USA on your to-do list - let’s chat.

Address

Shop 7a, 114-145 Hunter Street
Newcastle, NSW
2300

Telephone

+611300891100

Website

http://www.jayestravel.com.au/

Alerts

Be the first to know and let us send you an email when Michelle Barker at JAYES travel posts news and promotions. Your email address will not be used for any other purpose, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

Contact The Business

Send a message to Michelle Barker at JAYES travel:

Videos

Fiji, it’s been a minute. Really couldn’t even tell you the last time I was here. What a view coming in ☀️ might even make the 4am airport arrival worth it #fijiairways #spte2024 #fiji

A beautiful stay at the iconic Taj Lake Palace in Udaipur. Set in the middle of the lake, it’s a little oasis (only accessible by boat). Greeted with rose petals being thrown down from the rooftop terrace, it’s hard to not feel like a princess. Amazing sunsets, great cocktails and it’s safe to say I didn’t want to leave. @tajhotels @tajlakepalace @shelle_barker @enrichingjourneys @jayestravel #incredibleindia #travelbeyond #rajasthan #travelwithjayes #embark #newcastletravelagent #travelwithme #india #udaipur #smallgrouptravel #iconichotel #tajlakepalace

Super quick trip to Singapore - a whole lot of conferencing, with a few hotel inspections throw in and a whole lot of wine. Good to catch up with old friends and make plenty of new connections. I love Singapore - If it’s somewhere you want to travel to, let’s chat ✈️

Highlight ✨ A quick 2 hour ferry from Helsinki and we’re in ESTONIA! The old town of Tallinn was a complete vibe. And we were completely unprepared for how cold it was! The most falling snow we’ve had ❄️❄️

What an amazing experience ❄️ Embracing the Norwegian way of life with a sunset sauna and dip in 0.9degree Oslo harbour 🥶 I’ll admit - I was a chicken and didn’t go jumping in.. but I did (quickly) creep down the ladder a few times! A definite must-do in Oslo!

Escaped the city up to Monserrat with Wine and Tapas with Castlexperience Wine Tours 💛 The perfect mix of a little history, lots of laughs and free time to enjoy the delicious cheeses and honey. Off to Oller del Mas to taste wines, eat cheese and just all around soak up the Spanish life. Recommend! Handy to be travelling with my personal photographer Beach Road Interiors

Have you been following along over the last 9 days as I share some unique, small group experiences with Crooked Compass? With my personal travels I want to get off the beaten track, have interactions with local customs and traditions - and experience something that not everyone can. You can't just turn up and 'wing it' to these destinations, you can't just turn up at cultural festivals or knock on the door for a local experience. These are exclusive experiences that are only made possible with a small-group tour. This is why I've wanted to share some of the possibilities with you - and these have just been a taste!! There are many more destinations and experiences to be had Are you a similar traveller? Are you looking for an experience you can't do yourself and is truly unique? Let's sit down and discuss the possibilities. Make 2020 one to remember! Email [email protected] Phone 1300891100 #travelpartners #crookedcompass #followadifferentpath

A snapshot of our day in Delhi 🇮🇳

••let me know what you think👇🏼•• So in South Africa, if you are caught texting or using your phone while driving you not only get a fine (around $100 Aussie) but you also get your phone confiscated for 24hours! I personally think this might stop more people checking their phones? What do you think? Good idea? 🤔🤷🏼‍♀️

Great afternoon in Sydney to catch a little of the tennis 🎾 big thanks to Emirates for the invite ✌🏼 definitely recommend getting down there if you get a chance (even if it’s next year) - $25 general admission and a fabulous day out

Happy Melbourne Cup Day! We are in the office all day so stop by and take a pic with our window! Post it online and every month we give away a travel gift voucher - it could be you! 🍾🐴