We were thrilled to be included in this year’s Signature Horizon Club trip for top producers. The core trip included Sydney & Melbourne and we added a post trip to Kangaroo Island & Adelaide.

We had been to Australia before but never to Melbourne, Kangaroo Island or Adeliade. Travel Answers handled Sydney and Melbourne and Swain took care of the post trip. All logistics ran smoothly; guides were amazing. Swain also arranged Qantas business-class air from the west coast and saved us quite a bit of money over booking Delta over the water.

The Crown Towers Sydney (349 rooms) was quite nice. We had a deluxe king room with floor to ceiling windows – very spacious. Great location with amazing views. Smart elevators, a little ‘Las Vegas’ glitzy with a casino on floor 2. Buffet breakfasts were huge, but rather busy at peak times. Fitness center was open 24/7, huge with amazing views of Sydney’s skyline.

The Crown Towers Melbourne (481) was a bit of a disappointment. Built in 1997, also offering a casino, it catered to a large Asian clientele. The location on the Yarra River was good. Melbourne is a very walkable city.

The Southern Ocean Lodge on Kangaroo Island was incredible. With just 25 rooms, we were in a Flinders Suite (650 SF indoor and outdoor space ) with dramatic views of the ocean. Looked at a Remarkable Suite (1500 SF) which can accommodate 2-4 guests. Meals were quite good although service was spotty. Many of the staff are only onboard for 3-6 months. The fitness center was small but adequate and open 24/7. The lodge guides were outstanding.

Sequoia lodge in Adelaide Hills was a real treat. We were in room #1 (800 SF) with just 14 suites, it’s a luxurious, intimate experience. Sister property right next door is Mount Lofty House originally built in 1852 offering world class dining.

Highlights:

• Sydney Opera House welcome dinner – welcome ceremony by indigenous people
• Dine around dinner at The Fullerton Hotel Sydney – nice historic victorian hotel but not near the water
• Taronga Zoo in Sydney: private walkabout & dinner – the hotel looked awesome
• Summit Climb – Jani had done this in 2004 – still a great experience and highly organized
• Boroughs of Melbourne tour – explored hidden gems - private guide was excellent
• Farewell Dinner at National Gallery of Victoria – first time they have ever allowed a dinner in the museum
• Private touring on Kangaroo Island with lunch in the ‘bush’ – local guide was great
• Adalaide half day tour – Central Markets well worth a visit
• Moonlit Sanctuary Wildlife Conservation Park – private evening event with opportunity to pet a Koala
• Cleland Wildlife Park – private experience with one of the rangers
• Barossa Valley Day private tour visiting three wineries
• Swain’s app was very user friendly and kept us updated with last minute changes
• Qantas business class from the west coast – excellent cabin & service

Australia is a special destination and one worth visiting more than once. We highly recommend Swain for your Australia adventure!