The EXPO Is Back!

Confidence in cruising has never been stronger, with the industry reporting booking demand at pre-pandemic levels. Travel Associates North Queensland General Manager Liam Giudes said as restrictions across the globe ease, COVID-19 is becoming like any other travel consideration.

“Every week we are seeing more restrictions easing globally, giving consumers rising confidence that Covid is just another background consideration, like security or insurance,” Mr Guides said.

It’s a glimmer of hope for the travel industry, who undoubtedly were hit hardest during the pandemic. It means people can plan to travel again, and for those who love cruising, there are cruises you can book now. Travel Associates are a locally Queensland-owned agency who can navigate the changing landscape of restrictions, and have a plethora of cruise and rail journeys available to book now. So much so, they have brought together 19 suppliers for a much-anticipated travel expo, coming to Mackay on Tuesday.

Cruising Is Back!

As the world navigates a new normal, the cruise industry has experienced a remarkable turn-around, with a rising demand from travellers already creating strong bookings throughout 2023 and 2024.

Travel Associates North Queensland Owner Liam Giudes said the way in which we cruise has changed, with a surge in the popularity of smaller, luxury cruises.

“People who cruise love it and are excited to see it return,” Mr Giudes said.

“The industry has invested millions into COVID safety procedures, with many ships now housing COVID-19 testing labs.

“There are cruises already departing American hubs like Miami and Fort Lauderdale, and popular European destinations include the south of France and the Nordic countries.

“There is a resurgence in small-ship cruising where there is almost the same number of staff as passengers, where people have plentiful space and COVID procedures are in place.

“In my opinion, I believe this type of cruising is the safest way to travel overseas at the moment.”

Mr Giudes said that there is availability on cruises for 2022 for those who want to travel now, with 2023 already quickly selling as more COVID restrictions are gradually eased around the World.

“There is a big show of confidence in the industry, we have 19 suppliers coming to the Expo in Mackay, all with products to sell,” he said.

“For those still uneasy about international borders, we have a lot of incredible travel options for within Australia on show too.

“We have already had more than 90 people register for the expo which shows the desire to travel again.”

Travel Associates Mackay Manager Alicia Keese said that while the pandemic was brutal on the travel industry, they have started to experience a swing where more people are heading to a travel agent to book their post-pandemic journey.

“There are many things to navigate travelling in a COVID world, especially with regard to testing and vaccination requirements for every country, but it’s just another consideration of travel that we can assist with,” Ms Keese said.

“We have noticed more people coming in to book through us who previously would book their travel online.

“It’s great having more options on offer, whether it’s a city escape, a snow holiday, a river cruise or a relaxing tropical vacation.”

Whether it's a multigenerational family trip to the Pacific Islands, a luxury European River Cruise, or a journey through the centre of Australia on the Ghan, the team of experienced travel advisers are ready to discuss your 2023-2024 travel plans.

With the world beginning to open, what better time than now to let Travel Associates show you why your next holiday should be on the water or the tracks.

“People who cruise love it and are excited to see it return,”

- Liam Guides

“For those still uneasy about international borders, we have a lot of incredible travel options for within Australia on show too.”

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