Day 1 Sun - Dec 28^th

Arrival in Sydney

Upon arrival, be welcomed by your local Aussie guide. Private Hotel transfer.

 (early checking included)

Hotel: Sofitel Sydney Darling Harbour

Room: Superior

Meals: Dinner

After check-in the remainder of your day will be at your leisure until we depart for dinner at local restaurant. Sofitel Darling Harbour boasts stunning views of the city, unpack, relax and explore.

Welcome dinner at Infinity Sydney Tower.

Take in views from this 88 stories above ground building that features one of Sydney's best vantage points. This sophisticated restaurant offers an intimate, stylish fine dining experience, with contemporary Australian-French fusion cuisine.

Day 2 Mon - Dec 29th

Sydney

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Meet your Aussie Guide in the lobby.

Today, we have a historic walking tour of Sydney's Rocks neighborhood, the city’s early commercial and maritime quarter, and the birthplace of the country. We will explore beautifully restored warehouses, shops, restaurants, pubs, as well as 1-hour guided tour of the iconic Sydney Opera House. This place is the busiest performing arts center in the world, featuring five main auditoriums, a reception hall, rehearsal studios, restaurants, theater bars, dressing rooms, administrative offices, and more.

Then, we drive through the picturesque suburb of Paddington before heading to Bondi Beach where we will enjoy lunch and meet your dream lifesaver (lifeguard). We will learn about Australia’s oldest surf lifesaving clubs.

3-course lunch at local restaurant in Bondi. Bring your swimsuit.

Back to the hotel. Explore the city with fellow travelers at your own pace. Venture for a drink at one of Sydney’s popular gay bars, or simply unwind in the comfort of your hotel room. Whatever you choose to do, the excitement and energy of Sydney will definitely captivate you.

This evening is free and we suggest you go for a drink at Palmer & Co.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 3 Tue - Dec 30^th

Sydney

Full-day tour of the magical Blue Mountains, including some of the lookouts like, the 3 Sisters. Enjoy Scenic World inside the Blue Mountains Reserve: Scenic Railway (discover the thrill of a 52° (128%) incline in open terrain riding the steepest passenger railway in the world), Scenic Skyway (glide between cliff tops with panoramic views of World Heritage landscapes on this 720-metre journey that provides the best views of Katoomba Falls, the Three Sisters, Mt Solitary and Jamison Valley), and Scenic Walkway (experience walking under the canopy of an extraordinary temperate rainforest. Located in the Jamison Valley, this is a 500m elevated boardwalk, an easy 10-20-minute walk).

Enjoy a 3-course Heritage Feast Lunch at The Lookout Echo Point.

Our next stop is Featherdale Sydney Wildlife Park. Experience the wonders of Australia through the extraordinary native wildlife! This is the home to over 2000 Australian native animals, including over 60 threatened native species.

Evening at leisure. If you feel like shopping, check out the Queen Victoria Building shopping center.

Optional dinner at MUMU, a south Asian restaurant (reservations will be made according to number of people).

Day 4 Wed - Dec 31st

Sydney

Easy morning!  Indulge in a delicious breakfast at the hotel.

Tonight, is the night!

Sydney’s New Year’s celebration is among the best in the world! The fireworks are watched by more than one million people around the harbor -- lucky for you, today you will be one of those one million spectators.

But before, be ready, cause today we will make you feel kind of ROYAL as we invite you to Tea at the iconic Shangri-LA (seating at 2:30 pm). After tea, take a stroll through the Royal Botanical Garden.

NYE dinner at undisclosed location (Allow yourself to be surprised)

Meals: Breakfast, Tea ceremony, NYE Dinner

Day 5 Thu - Jan 1^st

Sydney Uluru

After breakfast, we check to depart for the airport for our ongoing Australia adventure. Fly to Ayers Rock (Uluru). Flight: JQ660 01JAN 10:35 12:20.

Upon landing we are met by our local guide team and be transferred to our lodging: Sails in the Desert hotel. As we drive from the airport, we will make a stop at Anangu Cultural Centre to learn about the Desert People of the Outback. Upon check-in, relax and explore the hotel and surroundings. Grab a bite at leisure in the hotel.

This afternoon, we enjoy a leisurely drive to Kata Tjuta (The Olgas) for our favorite sunset experience in Australia on “The Rock”.  We will go on a tour of Walpa Gorge. Marvel at the unique flora and admire the view of the central valley while you take in a magnificent outback sunset, relax with canapés and Australian wines, and witness the breathtaking beauty of the desert landscape.

Hotel: Sails in the Desert

Room: Superior

Meals: Breakfast, light Dinner & Sparkling Wine.

Day 6 Fri - Jan 2^nd

Uluru

This morning, we rise and travel to Talinguru Nyakunytjaku to watch the first rays of sunlight in the desert while enjoying a warm cup of coffee or tea. Then we go to see the 36 mystical domes of Kata Tjuta. On the way, enjoy panoramic views of the south at a dune viewing platform before arriving at Walpa Gorge. Spend some time exploring the Gorge and the unusual conglomerate rock formations. The 1.3km walking trail follows the natural creek between two of the tallest domes. An explorer’s light breakfast pack is provided on the tour. We return to the hotel at approximately 10.30 am.

Upon arrival you can participate in optional complimentary activities such as boomerang throwing, bush tucker walks, cultural performances, didgeridoo playing (men only), or art markets. Or just simply enjoy the pool, or take a disco nap.

Optional helicopter tour of Uluru.

This evening, you’ll take part in an experience very few people on the planet have witnessed. Pick up time is one hour before sunset.

Sound of Silence, an evening of dining under the outback sky. Your Sounds of Silence experience begins with canapes and chilled sparkling wine served on a viewing platform overlooking the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park. As the sun sets and darkness falls, listen to the sound of a didgeridoo as the night sky twinkles to life, help yourself to a bush tucker-inspired buffet that incorporates native bush ingredients. Settle back and listen to our resident star talker decode the southern night sky. The Southern Cross, the signs of the zodiac, the Milky Way, as well as planets and galaxies, will become visible due to the exceptional clarity of the atmosphere.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 7 Sat - Jan 3^rd

Uluru - Melbourne

After breakfast, enjoy a leisurely morning and be ready to check out by noon. Fly to Melbourne. Flight: JQ665 14:20 18:30

The city of trams, museums, cafes, and a vibrant gay community. Melbourne is quite often considered Australia’s cultural capital.

Check in at QT Melbourne. There will be an optional 2-hour tour before dinner to cover some of the city’s highlights -- Federation Square, and other attractions along the Yarra River.

Dinner reservation at Gimlet: Located in a landmark 1920s building, this charming restaurant takes patrons on a journey of nostalgia. It made the 2022 list of “100 best restaurants”, it features heavy wood-fired mains and succulent craft cocktails.

Hotel: QT Melbourne

Room: King

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 8 Sun - Jan 4^th

Melbourne

Today, we travel along the stunning coastline of The Great Ocean Road, taking in the dramatic views and visiting charming seaside towns along the way. Lunch (Pizza and Pasta at George Apollo Bay). Keep your eyes open as you might spot some Wallabies and Kangaroos.

Visit the Lorne, a beautiful surf beach inlet surrounded by pristine nature, continuing to 12 Apostles to take in the magnificent natural wonders from the boardwalk that runs along the cliffs. We will also admire the London Bridge, finishing our day excursion at the Timboon Railway Shed Distillery, where we’ll get an overview of the whisky distilling process and have the chance to taste some spirits.

The evening is yours to enjoy at leisure. Great opportunity to explore the many Melbourne gay bars and clubs. Recommendations will be provided by your Tour Manager.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 9 Mon - Jan 5^th

Melbourne – Queenstown

After breakfast, we will checkout and head to Melbourne International Airport for our flight to Queenstown, NZ. NZ232 04 JAN 09:20 am 2:25 pm (3 hr. flight)

Welcome to Queenstown, the adventure capital of New Zealand. Meet your guide and transfer to hotel. Check-in, unpack, relax.

You can enjoy the facilities and the stunning lakeside at your hotel. A 6-course Tasting Menu Dinner at The Rees with wine pairing will be served.

Hotel: The Rees Hotel, Luxury Apartments & Lakeside Residences

Room: Executive Lakeview

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 10 Tue - Jan 6^th

Queenstown

Transfer to Queenstown Main Pier. Experience the Shotover Jet and climb on board a Nomad Safari 4WD for a custom off-road tour – a breathtaking boat ride through dramatic, narrow canyons. Explore the gold mining area of the Arrow River and Lord of the Rings filming locations. Experience panning for gold with the help of your guide.

Transfer to Hole In One Café at Millbrook Resort for a 2-course a la carte lunch.

Lunch to the Skyline Gondola Base. Take the Gondola to the top of Bob’s Peak for a stunning view of Queenstown and Lake Wakatipu. Enjoy a relaxed afternoon.

Return to hotel. Evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 11 Wed - Jan 7^th

Queenstown

Embark on a tour of Milford Sound, learn about the geology, and flora and fauna of the region. The journey from Te Anau to Milford Sound itself is an experience not to be missed! Enjoy scenic lookouts such as Mirror Lake, Knobs Flat and Homer Tunnel.

We board the Milford Sound Cruise. Nestled within Fiordland National Park, Milford Sound is a pristine haven for birdlife, dolphins, fur seals and endangered species such as the Fiordland Crested Penguin. A marvel at any time of year and in any weather, Milford Sound is rich in geological formations and captivating waterfalls.

Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch onboard.

Return by coach to Queenstown. Evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12 Thu - Jan 8^th

Queenstown-Blenheim-Picton

After breakfast, A packed lunch will be provided at the time of checkout, private coach will transfer you to Queenstown Airport.

Fly to Blenheim. NZ600/NZ5735 11.25 am 5.45 pm, and transiting via Wellington. Please note that the domestic flights serve coffee/tea and cookies only (no lunch service). So, have a nice breakfast this morning.

NOTE: There is a 3.5-hour layover in Wellington. Optional: Guided experience to the Weta Workshop 1-hour (includes transfer). Cost for this: $150 PP.

On arrival, your private coach will transfer you to the hotel in Picton, a quaint coastal town (35-minute drive).

Check in at Picton Yacht Club Hotel rest of evening at leisure.

Hotel: Picton Yacht Club

Room: Superior King Ocean View

Meals: Breakfast, Snacks

Day 13 Fri - Jan 9^th

Picton

Transfer to Omaka Aviation Heritage Centre for a tour. Your ticket includes the WW1 Exhibition 'Knights of the Sky', and the WW2 Exhibition 'Dangerous Skies'.  Following a morning of history, we are taken to the stunning Wither Hills Vineyard (just a 5-minute drive) for a Lunch with wine pairing.

After lunch, we then go to Kaituna Ridges Farm for an entertaining farm tour, showcasing one of New Zealand’s top export industries.

Transfer back to Picton. Enjoy the beautiful waterfront in the evening before retiring to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch with wine pairing

Day 14 Sat - Jan 10^th

Picton-Wellington

This morning we are transferred to The Picton Ferry Terminal. Check-in your luggage and set sail on board the Interislander Scenic Ferry to Wellington. The 3 ½ hour journey takes you through stunningly beautiful bays of Queen Charlotte Sound, and the Wellington waterfront.

There are a couple of cafés on board, where you can buy food and beverages

On arrival at Wellington Ferry Terminal, collect your luggage. The coach will take us to the hotel. In the evening we thought we will let embrace your sense of adventure and encourage you to explore the New Zealand hospitable spirit, we recommend a drink at Scotty and Mal’s Cocktail and Lounge Bar, located on the iconic Cuba Street.

For dinner, we recommend Hiakai, a unique restaurant owned by renowned chef Monique Fiso, specializing in Māori cuisine.

Hotel: QT Wellington

Room: Superior King

Meals: Breakfast

Day 15 Sun - Jan 11^th

Wellington

Wellington Highlights Tour, including a visit to Te Papa National Museum of New Zealand, Mount Victoria Lookout, Oriental Parade, Cable Car ride to Botanic Gardens and Miramar neighborhood.

We will visit the studios of local gay artists’, Mark Beehre and Graeme Hitchcock.

Lunch at The Botanist.

Wellington is famous for its craft beer scene, so this afternoon we venture to the Aro Cellar Door Room of The Garage project, one of Wellington’s most known boutique craft breweries.

This evening we treat you to a local Gay chef traditional dinner (location will be a surprise). This will be considered our Farewell dinner.

The rest of the evening is at leisure. Your hotel is centrally located, so wonder around and explore.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Farewell Dinner

Day 16 Mon - Jan 12^th

Wellington - Auckland

After breakfast, our coach will take us to Wellington Airport, we fly to Auckland. NZ416 09:45 am 10.50 am

On arrival, luggage will be sent to the hotel directly. We transfer to Auckland Ferry Terminal where we take the 45-minute Ferry to Waiheke Island. As we approach the other side, we will be met by our driver-guide for our Gourmet Wine Tour with lunch.

Enjoy a platter lunch at a vineyard which includes a selection of meats, cheeses, bread dips, and vegetables paired with local wines. After lunch, we will visit two other vineyards, each offering a range of gourmet tastes to accompany their wines. Treats may include oysters straight from Te Matuku Bay, Waiheke olive oil, Waiheke honey, and artisan cheeses. Afterwards, we return on the ferry back to Auckland. NOTE: Due to seasonal availability, Te Matuku oysters may not be available but they will be substituted with another gourmet treat.

We walk to our hotel (2 minutes). Your luggage will be waiting for you.

Check-in at the hotel.

In the evening, we recommend you walk to Viaduct Harbour. The waterfront is lined with a variety of restaurants and wine bars for you to choose from.

A 5 to 10-minutes’ walk will take you back to the hotel.

Hotel: Sofitel Auckland Viaduct Harbour

Room: Superior

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 17 Tue -  Jan 13^th

New Zealand- USA

Optional morning tour before fliying back to the U.S. A short walk to the Auckland Inner Harbour where we will board an America's Cup Yacht and sail Auckland's beautiful Harbour (2hrs.), followed by a short drive to the Auckland War Memorial Museum for a Maori Cultural Show and some free time in the museum

Hotel check out, transfers to the airport.

Meals: Breakfast