How We Plan Your Trip
We start by asking questions:
What do you expect from your trip?
What’s your travel style, pace, time frame, budget?
Any hobbies or personal interests?
The more we know, the better we can plan. For example, if you are interested in the Great Barrier Reef, we describe the different day trips, resorts which are on the Reef, live-aboard dive/snorkel boats, cruising the Reef.
In cities where it is easy to explore on your own, we tell you our favorite things to do. In places where your experience is greatly enhanced by taking a small group tour with a professional guide, we suggest ones that will meet your expectations. Often they have permission to take you places where the general public is not allowed.
The accommodations, tours and guides we use are based on our personal experience plus years of feedback from clients. We might even tell you about a tour you never heard of! For example, did you know that you could be helicoptered into a stunning gorge by a waterfall, safe and secluded from the rest of the world, for just one night of complete, blissful privacy? Or that you could kayak and hike in turquoise waters in both Australia and New Zealand? That you can take easy walks or adventurous hikes by day — and then enjoy gourmet meals and luxury accommodation at night?
Whether you want a terrific honeymoon or have a family group with assorted ages, abilities and interests, we love creating something unique. If you already have a “must do” list or not a clue what you want, we help you sort through the possibilities.
Step by Step
Read This Website
After reading the website, fill out our questionnaire and send it to us.
Contact Us
You can reach us by phone at 1-877-977-4505 or by email at Tammy@EssentialDownUnder.com
Tammy Designs Your Proposal
We start with more of a “dream trip” so we can work together to trim if necessary. Note that in order to coordinate properly, we do not book piecemeal itineraries. Exceptions are made if you have a convention to attend, or are staying with friends/family.
You Review the Proposal
We make minor changes, and then when it looks like what you want, we get it priced.
Let Us Know You're Ready
If you want to proceed with changes or booking, there is a planning-to-go payment that goes toward the cost of your trip. Then we work with you to trim costs and adjust the itinerary. You are in the driver’s seat: it is your trip.
We Confirm Your Trip
Once you give us the green light to book, we start the confirmation process.
Note: some hotels and tours may require additional deposit.Airline Tickets & Miles
When key parts of the trip are confirmed, you pay for the airline tickets. And yes, we will work with you if you are using frequent flyer miles.
Payment for Trip
When all land arrangements are confirmed, we send you the invoice. Due to the exchange rate, the quoted price can be held only three business days. However, you may pay as late as 6 – 8 weeks before departure, but the cost will be adjusted for rate changes.
Travel Insurance Coverage
We will offer you a comprehensive travel insurance policy which can protect you against trip cancellation, provide medical evacuation, and other services.
