Brisbane, Lizard Island, Daintree Rainforest, Sydney & Melbourne from $9,399 per person

This Ultimate honeymoon/romance luxury package is full of special values and free nights! Commence your 17-day itinerary by arriving in the vibrant city of Brisbane, the capital of Queensland. Onwards to the magical Lizard Island, the most northern Island resort in tropical Queensland, located directly on the Great Barrier Reef. The island is catered for the fortunate few who will experience an unforgettable trip like no other. From the island, you will then travel to the ancient Daintree Rainforest. Spectacularly situated on the Mossman Gorge River, Silky Oaks Lodge is the ideal location to appreciate the natural tropical environment with an open-sided Tree House Restaurant perched high above the surrounding rainforest and river. Onto the stunning harbor city of Sydney, where you will enjoy a small group Sydney sightseeing tour, Sydney harbor cruise, and Sydney Opera House tour. A short 90-minute flight to the cosmopolitan city of Melbourne, where you will end your Australian adventure with a walking tour of the city's laneways and arcades and a full-day tour to see the Penguins coming to shore at Phillip Island.

Inclusions

  • International flights from Los Angeles (addons available from your local city)
  • Economy class Internal Australia flights
  • 2 nights in Brisbane at the 5* Crystalbrook Vincent
  • Half-day Brisbane city & Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary tour
  • 3 Nights at 5* Lizard Island Resort in a Gardenview Room including Full breakfast, lunch and dinner daily including selected alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. Catamarans, glass bottom boat trips, gymnasium, motorized dinghies, nature slide presentations, paddle skis, picnic hampers for beachside lunches, self-guided island walks and nature trails, and tennis.
  • 2 Nights 5* Silky Oaks Lodge in a Treehouse including Full breakfast daily, Morning Yoga, One Guided Rainforest Walk, One return scheduled shuttle to Port Douglas per day, Use of river kayaks, mountain bikes, fitness center, and tennis court.
  • 4 nights in Sydney at the 5* InterContinental Sydney
  • Half-day small group city sights of Sydney
  • Sydney Harbour morning small group cruise
  • Sydney Opera House tour
  • 3 nights in Melbourne at the 4.5* Crown Metropol
  • Half Day Laneways & Arcades Walking Tour
  • Full Day Phillip Island Penguin Parade Ultimate Eco Tour
  • Car service airport transfers in Cairns & Melbourne
  • All taxes & fuel surcharges

Itinerary

Day 1 - Depart the US for Brisbane
Ask about our options with Premium Economy and Business class airfare.

Day 2 - Cross International Date Line 

Day 3 - Arrive Brisbane
Welcome to Australia! Enjoy two nights in Brisbane, the capital of the Sunshine State, located on the banks of the Brisbane River, and enjoys a subtropical climate year-round. The city has matured into a unique blend of historic buildings and sophisticated architecture during the last decade.

ACCOMMODATION - The Crystalbrook Vincent features 166 suites, a rooftop pool and bar, a gymnasium, four food and beverage outlets, plus conference and events facilities, all with custom contemporary furnishings, three original artworks, and 500 giclee prints of Fantauzzo's most recognized works. A seamless combination of art, design, and functionality, the hotel will be a powerful representation of contemporary creativity, with connected and inspiring spaces for guests to discover.

Day 4 – Brisbane City Tour & Lone Pine tour
Begin your 4-hour tour, by hand-feeding kangaroos and seeing over 100 koalas and hundreds of other unique Aussie wildlife in the world’s oldest and largest koala sanctuary. Then see why ‘Brissy’ is the best city in the world to live with an energetic outdoor culture based around some of the world’s best riverside parklands, winding river, stunning lookouts, unique ‘Queenslander’ architecture and ‘city beach’. See and learn how Brisbane evolved from convict goal to the lifestyle capital of the world approaching 2.5 million and host of the 2032 Olympics.

Day 5 - Brisbane to Lizard Island via Cairns
This morning, you will be transferred by car service to Brisbane Airport to board your flight to Cairns. Transfer by scenic flight over the Great Barrier Reef to Lizard Island.

ACCOMMODATION - Australia's northernmost resort, Lizard Island Resort, is located on the Great Barrier Reef, with coral reefs and 24 powdery white beaches. Outstanding in every respect, the unique pleasures of Lizard Island have created an idyllic retreat known as 'one of one.' Spectacular diving and snorkeling opportunities abound, including the famous Cod Hole, where you'll come face to face with a massive yet curious Potato Cod swimming right up to inspect you with child-like curiosity. Discover secluded, pristine beaches on foot or motorized dinghy with a gourmet picnic just for two. Try bushwalking, sailing, fishing, glass bottom boat trip (additional cost), or perhaps indulge in a pampering treatment at the luxurious Azure Spa. Dining is another of the many pleasures here. The menu changes daily and is fresh and creative, showcasing the finest local produce. Each of the 40 villas is elegant and spacious, with either ocean or beach views. All meals, beverages, and many island activities are included.

Days 6 & 7 - Lizard Island
Experience Lizard Island on the reef, on land, or in the spa's tranquility. Guided and self-guided activities include snorkeling, diving, paddle boarding, kayaking, hiking, visits to the Research Centre, tennis under night lights, morning yoga on the beach, and indulgent spa treatments.

Day 8 – Lizard Island to Silky Oaks
This afternoon depart Lizard Island for flight to Cairns, and transfer on arrival by car service to Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Waters Spa in the Daintree Rainforest.

ACCOMMODATION - Experience the soothing sights and sounds of the rainforest at Silky Oaks Lodge & Healing Waters Spa, nestled on the edge of the World Heritage-listed Daintree National Park. The Lodge blends casual and contemporary design amongst the most tranquil surroundings.

Day 9 - Silky Oaks Lodge
Relax and explore Silky Oaks Lodge. Take a guided rainforest walk, maybe book a spa treatment or take a 4WD safari through the Daintree Rainforest and up to Cape Tribulation (additional costs apply).

Day 10 – Silky Oaks to Sydney
This morning, you will be transferred by car service to Cairns Airport to board your flight to Sydney.

Blessed with a temperate climate, Sydney is Australia’s favorite city with the world’s most beautiful harbor. The harbor provides a playground for jet boating, sailing, swimming, harbor scenic flights, dining, fishing, climbing the harbor bridge, and sightseeing at the Opera House. On arrival in Sydney, your driver will meet you for a car service transfer to the InterContinental Hotel Sydney for your four-night stay.

ACCOMMODATION - Centrally positioned in the heart of Circular Quay, InterContinental Sydney extends breathtaking panoramic views of the Sydney Opera House and Sydney Harbour Bridge. Set within the beautifully restored Treasury Building of 1851, InterContinental Sydney is renowned as one of the city’s prized icons with 509 guest rooms, including 28 luxury suites, an award-winning and world-class Club InterContinental lounge, and vibrant dining venues.

Day 11 – Half-day small group city sights tour
This morning you will be picked up from your hotel for your small group Panoramic Sydney tour. Visit the historic Rocks area and hear about early convict history. Enjoy magnificent views of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge. See the city's shopping heart, Queen Victoria Building, and Sydney Tower. Visit Sydney's trendy Oxford Street district and travel through Paddington with its terrace houses before arriving at the Pacific Ocean. See the magnificent coast cliff walk around Tamarama and Bronte. Travel on to famous Bondi Beach and visit the beachfront promenade with time to enjoy a coffee or cool drink (at your own cost). See Aussie lifesavers and Sydney's best panoramic view at Dover Heights. Return to Sydney via Double Bay, Kings Cross, and Mrs. Macquarie's Point for a final magical viewpoint over the harbour before returning to the city center. Tour concludes at Darling Harbour or Circular Quay.

Day 12 – Sydney Harbor Cruise & Opera House Tour
Enjoy a 2.5 hour small boat cruise tour - the perfect way to discover the amazing architecture, history, and nature of Sydney Harbour. Explore Sydney's authentic 'living and working harbour', from iconic city landmarks & opulent waterfront suburbs to secluded national park waterways and beaches, home to Sydney's resident penguin and seal colonies.

This afternoon, enjoy a one-hour guided tour of the Sydney Opera House. The Sydney Opera House is one of the world's most recognizable landmarks, and this is your chance to get up close truly. Run your hands over the world-famous shell tiles, sit in the elegant custom-made white birch timber chairs, and marvel at the vaulted ceilings. Next, visit areas off-limits to the public and capture photographs from rare vantage points. Finally, explore theatres and foyers where more than 1600 concerts, operas, dramas, and ballets occur yearly.

Day 13 - Sydney
Explore Sydney at your leisure or consider adding one of our tour options - Some of our favorites (additional cost applies):

  • World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains day tour
    This boutique tour provides an intimate touch, traveling in the luxury of a Mercedes Benz minivan. Explore the Blue Mountains and see hidden locations and beautiful views of the region. From Echo Point, the closest and best view of the Three Sisters, you can witness the blue haze and the vast expanse of the Jamison Valley and experience the raw magic the Blue Mountains create. Take a 1.5-hour hike down the Furber Steps walking track, which offers scenic views and waterfalls, to the bottom of the valley. Visit a beautiful waterfall with great photo opportunities at Katoomba Falls Cascade and see breathtaking views of either Jamison Valley or Megalong Valley away from the crowds in a private location. Enjoy a hot, filling lunch, including a glass of beer, wine, or soft drink. After lunch, visit Featherdale Wildlife Park to see some of Australia's native wildlife. Your trip to Sydney is complete with a cruise on the Parramatta River to Sydney Harbour. You will travel under the Harbour Bridge and past the Opera House before disembarking at Circular Quay, where your tour will conclude.
  • BridgeClimb Sydney
    This is the opportunity to climb the world-famous Sydney Harbour Bridge. A comprehensive briefing and safety demonstration is conducted, as well as being provided with a bridge suit, communications equipment, and a bridge harness that is linked to a static line throughout the Climb. You will be led by one of BridgeClimb's professional Climb Leaders on a 3.5-hour guided journey (including preparation and briefing) to the top of the Sydney Harbour Bridge. The Climb takes you along the outer arch of the Bridge on catwalks and ladders to the summit, 134 meters above Sydney Harbour. The steady incline to the summit leaves you free to focus on the surroundings, with the opportunity to witness 360-degree views of Sydney from east to the Sydney Opera House, west to the Blue Mountains, and the Harbour City surrounds. Upon conclusion, receive a photograph of your climb group, a personalized commemorative climber certificate, and a climber cap.

Day 14 - Sydney to Melbourne
This morning, you will be transferred to Sydney Airport for your flight to Melbourne. On arrival in Melbourne, you will be privately transferred to your accommodation.

ACCOMMODATION - Rising above the vibrant Southbank precinct, only minutes from the city and miles from the ordinary, Crown Metropol Melbourne’s sleek black facade is a nod to the town where it proudly resides. Situated on the doorstep of Melbourne’s trendy southside, a short stroll from the CBD, South Melbourne Market, iconic sporting stadiums, and 20 minutes from Melbourne’s International and Domestic airports.

There is a lot to love about Melbourne - just ask the locals. This sophisticated world city in the southeast corner of mainland Australia inspires a deep passion in those who live there. Ranked as one of the world’s most livable cities, Melbourne is famous for its vibrant energy, restaurants, fashion boutiques, café filled laneways, cool bars, unbeatable galleries, spacious parks, and village-like inner suburbs, each with its unique character. Melbourne is less than 200 years old and never sits still. Modern, cutting-edge designs add to the fascinating mix of heritage architecture and ensure the skyline is constantly changing.

Day 15 – Lanes & Arcades Tour
This morning, indulge with a small casual group guided walking tour through Melbourne's lanes and arcades in small groups to engage in the life of this city, which many miss. Discover local designers and specialty retailers, tiny cafes, and more. A little history and attention to unique architecture will inspire locals and visitors alike. Get orientated and return to those places you like best in the afternoon, at your leisure.

Day 16 - Phillip Island
Your 8-hour animal adventure will start with a visit to Moonlit Sanctuary Conservation Park, where you will have time to take photos and have close encounters with animals like kangaroos, wombats, and echidnas. Head to Phillip Island and Woolamai Surf Beach to glimpse the fantastic waves and die-hard surfers. Cross the island to reach the dramatic west coast and the Nobbies, where you will be awe-struck by the crashing waves. Finally, it’s time for the main event, the Penguin Parade. There is a reason that this is one of Australia’s top attractions, and the little penguins will not disappoint! You will sit on the protective platform to see possibly hundreds of little penguins waddling onto the beach. Witness this magical procession – it is a treat never forgotten.

Day 17 - Depart Melbourne
This morning, you will be transferred by private car service to Melbourne International Airport. Bid farewell to Australia as you depart Melbourne for your flight to the US, arriving the same day.

 

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Costing Per Person

Starting from $9,399

 

Note: Daily departures, this package is an independent itinerary with flexible departures (not a group tour)

 

Australian Entry Requirements

Before committing to a trip, please ensure you have a valid passport. Australia welcomes US travelers with an approved Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) to enter Australia.

Read More about the Australian entry requirements

Additional departure gateways & pricing

Add on airfares are available from most major airports – please ask an Aspire consultant for a quote

Upgrade Options

  • Upgrade to premium economy from $900 per person each way*
  • Upgrade to business class from $2,700 per person each way*
  • Can take the upgrade one way or round trip and combine premium/business classes on same ticket

* Upgrade from pricing based on Sunday through Wednesday departures from Los Angeles - ask an Aspire consultant for the upgrade fee from other departure points and travel Thursday through Saturday.

 

 

Terms & Conditions:

The package from pricing is based on double occupancy (2 people sharing a room) for low-season stays for travel Sundays through Wednesdays from Los Angeles. A $50 air supplement applies each way for international travel from Thursday to Saturday. Add-on fares are available from other cities. Specific blackout dates apply to the accommodation and tour value add offers. Seats are limited and may not be available on every flight. Hotels are subject to availability. All prices reflect a discount for purchases made by check/wire; please see terms and conditions for credit card payments. Cancellation penalties and other restrictions apply.

To guarantee the package price & purchase the airline tickets, full payment is due at the time of booking. The purchase of travel Insurance is highly recommended for travel to Australia. Aspire Down Under partners with CSA Travel Protection. Travel insurance covers cancellation penalties under the cancellation benefit should you test positive for COVID-19 immediately before traveling to Australia.

 

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