When I think back to my first-ever trip outside of Australia—excluding my deployment to the Middle East at 22—it was a moment that truly changed me. That trip was a Contiki tour through Europe, and it opened my eyes to the thrill of seeing the world in a way I had only ever imagined. For those who might not know, Contiki tours are now open to travellers up to 45 years old, so it’s not just for 20-somethings anymore! I’m not sure everyone is aware of that, but it’s such a fantastic way to explore Europe without worrying about the logistics, because they take care of it all.
Monaco and Nice The highlight of my land tour had to be Monaco and Nice. Monaco, in particular, left an indelible mark on me. The sheer luxury, the glamour, the energy—it was intoxicating. Even now, as a travel agent, I think back to that first taste of the high-life vibe and how it shaped the way I think about curating incredible experiences for my clients. There’s something about Monaco that inspires dreams and possibilities, and I loved every second of soaking it in.
Greek Islands Bliss After the Contiki land tour, I capped off my adventure with a cruise through the Greek Islands. That was my first-ever cruise, and little did I know it would set me on a path to becoming a Cruise Master today. I started off in an interior cabin—no window, no balcony—but I quickly learned that balcony cabins are worth every extra dollar. Having your own private space to sip a coffee in the morning or enjoy a glass of wine while watching the never-ending ocean is pure bliss, especially if you need a break from the buzz of fellow travellers. And my favourite memory from that cruise? Sipping a cocktail while watching the sunset in Santorini. There’s nothing quite like it—the sky painting itself in pinks and golds, the calm of the Aegean Sea, and the absolute feeling of being in the right place at the right time. That cruise wasn’t just a holiday—it was the beginning of a lifelong love affair with cruising. I loved discovering the Greek Islands, each with its own charm and character, and experiencing the convenience of unpacking once while exploring multiple destinations. It really showed me how relaxing and enriching cruising can be, and it’s something I now recommend to clients who want a mix of adventure and luxury without the stress of constant travel logistics.
Looking back, that first Contiki adventure wasn’t just a holiday—it was a masterclass in travel inspiration. It ignited my passion for helping others experience the joy of exploration, and it showed me firsthand the transformative power of travel. From the luxury streets of Monaco to the turquoise waters of the Greek Islands, each experience reminded me why I do what I do today: helping people create memories that last a lifetime, with ease and style.
If you’re inspired to take your first European tour or cruise, here are a few practical tips from my own experiences:
Contiki Tours:
• Pack light! You’ll be moving between destinations often.
• Keep a small daypack for essentials when exploring cities.
• Don’t be afraid to join optional activities—sometimes the unexpected experiences become the most memorable.
• Bring a travel mug or small wine glass if you enjoy a morning coffee or evening drink on your balcony.
• Take advantage of “quiet hours” on deck for some personal reflection or relaxation.
• Plan shore excursions ahead, but leave room for spontaneous exploring—you’ll often stumble upon hidden gems.
• Keep a journal or take photos to capture your journey—you’ll cherish these memories forever.
• Don’t overpack your schedule; some of the best travel moments happen when you simply wander and soak it all in.
Travel isn’t just about the destinations—it’s about how the experiences shape you, inspire you, and create stories that stay with you forever. That first Contiki and Greek Islands cruise taught me all of that… and it started me on the path to helping others do the same.
