Sydney day tours with a difference – that’s all I was searching for when I first arrived in this magnificent city. I don’t know about you, but when I’m on holiday and looking for somewhere to stay or for a company to take a guided tour with I’m inevitably drawn to smaller, family-run and long-established businesses. Why? Because I know that with these I’m likely to receive a friendlier, more personal, and altogether better experience than I might from bigger operators.
So, I’m in Australia and there are at least a thousand-and-one different and wonderful things I want to see and do. I want to sample the best of Oz’s magnificent natural, cultural and gastronomic experiences and maybe also have a memorable adventure or two off the beaten tourist track.
Naturally, my approach is to start looking for a small and reputable independent tour operator which offers the kind of experiences I’m looking for. The first thing I find is that there are literally hundreds of companies offering ‘small group’ experiences of Australia’s many highlights. The second thing I find is that the definition of a ‘small group’ can vary wildly between one tour operator and the next. Some even consider that a minibus packed with more than two dozen tourists constitutes a ‘small group’. Personally, I prefer my experiences a little less crowded.
Luckily, someone recommended Australian Wild Escapes to me, and on checking them out (they get amazing reviews online by the way) I found they ticked all my boxes. It’s a family-owned and run business that has been providing a huge variety of quality Australian tours and experiences for more than twenty-five years. More importantly, when Australian Wild Escapes says “small group tours” they really mean it; their average tour group comprises fewer than ten guests. Accompanied by a knowledgeable and friendly guide you just know that you’re in for plenty of personal care and attention as well as an experience that will be as memorable as it is enjoyable.
What really blew me away, though, is the sheer breadth and diversity of tours available. Whether you want to sail beneath the Sydney Harbour Bridge, explore the rainforests, mountains and waterfalls of the beautiful Daintree National Park or journey along Australia’s legendary Great Ocean Road, you can do it with Australian Wild Escapes. It might be a cliché, but from wildlife-watching to wine tasting, they really do offer something for everyone. I can’t fault the service and value either. Reinforcing my opinions about family-owned companies, everyone at Australian Wild Escapes is really friendly, helpful and know their stuff. The tour cost includes hotel pick-up and drop off, travel in one of their many luxury vehicles, any entry fees to attractions and lunch (including beer & wine) at intimate locations well away from the tourist crowds.
As a company that offers everything I like, i.e. a huge range of great value and genuinely small group tours to some of Australia’s greatest sights and attractions, I didn’t think Australian Wild Escapes could be improved upon but then I found out they had another business called Australian Luxury Escapes! The company was launched twelve years ago and also offers the same outstanding value, quality and customer care. This luxury venture allows you to custom-build your own private and unique Australian tour, for a truly unforgettable five-star experience (romantics take note – to me this sounds like the ultimate honeymoon option!)
If you’re looking for an Australian small tour operator that offers something a little bit different and better than all the rest along with a truly personal touch, the least I can do is pass along the recommendation for Australian Wild Escapes.
Contact London based Australia specialists Bridge & Wickers for a tailor-made exclusive itinerary and booking on 020 36427962 or email sales@bridgeandwickers.co.uk or email Wild Australia Escapes directly on email: tours@australianwildescapes.com website: www.australianwildescapes.com
