So, to celebrate more than two decades in the business, we’ve pulled together our most valuable insights — and those of our well-travelled clients — into twenty-one essential tips. These aren’t just handy hints; they’re the hard-earned lessons that turn great travel into something remarkable.
Jenny Flower
21 Years, 21 Lessons: Our Expedition Travel Wisdom
For over twenty-one years, we’ve been helping Australians explore the world on truly unforgettable expedition adventures — from the rugged Kimberley coast to the vast Outback, and all the way to the icy edges of the polar regions
Along the way, we’ve learned a thing or two about what makes a trip not just good, but extraordinary
1
Arrive early — especially for cruises and tours
Arriving two to three days early gives you time to settle, sleep off jet lag, and start fresh. Showing up a day before isn’t always enough. You need time to catch up with yourself. A tour guide once told me he can tell those who arrived the day before just by looking at them!
2
Always choose local currency on the card machine
Don’t be tempted to choose Australian dollars on the card machine. Local currency often gets you ten to fifteen percent better value through your bank’s exchange rate. Just remember to buy local.
3
Give us your passport name from the start
We’ll always use the name you are known by where we can, but official tickets must match your passport. Getting this right early avoids last-minute stress (and reissue fees!).
4
Always take out travel insurance — non-negotiable
We’ve seen too many heartbreaks — it is a necessary expense! Know who you are covered by, what you are covered for and who to call in an emergency. It will help in a potentially stressful situation!
5
Check your passport expiry date
Make sure it’s valid for six months beyond your return date. It’s one of those easy-to-miss details that can completely derail a trip.
6
Print your documents and back them up digitally
Carry physical copies of your itinerary, passport, visa and insurance in a separate bag. Save them to your email or cloud too. Again, it will help in a potentially stressful situation.
7
Pack by the rule of three
Three tops, three bottoms: One to wear, one to wash, and one on standby. Simple, light, and effective.
8
Carry on like a pro
Pack a spare outfit, medications, phone charger, and basic toiletries in your carry-on. If your luggage goes walkabout, you’ll still feel human.
9
Leave room in your suitcase and schedule
Some of the best travel moments are unplanned. Keep your itinerary loose enough to welcome surprises. Leave time to get a feel for where you are!
10
Respecting local customs
A quick read about dress codes, tipping, or greetings can go a long way in making your trip more enjoyable (and respectful).
11
Hydrate before you fly
Start drinking more water the day before your flight, not just when the drink cart rolls by. It helps with digestion, jet lag, and dry skin.
12
Go with the flow and remember to breathe
Flights get delayed. Transfers take longer. Roll with it. Flexibility is the best thing you can pack (and a good book!).
13
Use an eSIM or add roaming before you fly
I tried it on my last trip . . . so easy! Maps, WhatsApp, and online check-in all in your pocket. No surprise data bills.
14
Shoulder seasons are gold
Europe in March to April or September to October offers most of the charm, colour and culture of high summer. Just with fewer crowds and a gentler pace.
15
Book ahead if your dates are set
If you’re locked into dates, don’t leave plans to chance. If there is something you want to see, pre-book it! I missed out in Porto once . . . lesson learned!
16
Trust your instincts
If something doesn’t feel right—whether it’s a dodgy taxi or an overambitious hike—listen to that inner voice. It’s usually spot on.
17
Ask a local
Some of the best meals and walks I’ve had have come from asking a concierge, driver, or shopkeeper. It’s a great way to experience something authentic.
18
Keep your boarding passes if you are claiming points
If you’re chasing frequent flyer points, hang on to your boarding passes! They’re the easiest way to prove you actually flew. It’s hard for an airline to argue when you’ve got that pass in hand. If your points don’t land in your account, flashing your boarding pass is the fastest path to getting it sorted.
19
Use a trusted travel specialist
We’ve been, seen, and sorted it all. Yes, you can ask a computer but there is nothing like the “oh yes, this is how we did it”.
20
Beware the too-good-to-be-true deal
Online bargains can lead to long bus rides, poor locations, or giant group sizes. If it seems too cheap, there’s usually a catch.
21
Not all cruises are created equal
Smaller ships get you into remote coves and offer a quieter pace. Bigger ships offer more onboard buzz. Knowing the difference is key to finding your perfect fit.
After twenty-one years of creating extraordinary expeditions, one thing’s clear — the best journeys start with the best preparation
We’ve learned that well-informed, well-prepared travellers don’t just see the world — they experience it deeply. These tips come from a genuine love of travel and a commitment to helping you turn your expedition dream into something unforgettable.
Ready to plan your next great adventure, backed by two decades of experience?
What to do next
If you’d like more information, either researching on your own or by talking to a person who has been to the Kimberley and can give you first hand advice, here are four options:
Download your FREE copy of "Ultimate Guide to Kimberley Cruising”
Includes the top nine questions travellers ask and our honest answers to them, plus a pre-trip checklist.
It’s the perfect starting point for initial research.
Talk to the team
Kimberley cruises are not one size fits all — there are many different ships each offering their own special elements.
We would love to help you. You’re invited to book a FREE 30-Minute Kimberley Cruise Planning Session to have all you questions answered, without the “hard sell” everyone hates.
Research the latest specials that include free flights and free accommodation
With almost twenty years of experience in booking Kimberley cruises we have great relationships with many of the most popular cruise vessels. Why does that matter to you?
It means we have been able to negotiate some great free inclusions with several of the best cruise vessels including free flights, free tours, and free accommodation in Darwin or Broome.
Dig even deeper via our blog. Here are a few of the most popular posts:
What travellers say
“Their product knowledge is amazing”
“The cruise suited us perfectly”
“Interesting and diverse travel experiences”
About Jenny Flower
I’m an expert in small ship cruising in the Kimberley and have completed four cruises on different vessels along this spectacular coastline. Cruises in the Kimberley are not one size fits all. There are different ships and itineraries, each offering their own special elements.
If you would like to have a chat with me about Kimberley cruising at a time that suits you book in a call.
You might also enjoy
Why Taking a free Kimberley cruise ended up being very embarrassing
The most embarrassing conversation I have had to had with…
Are You Likely to See a Polar Bear on Your Arctic Cruise?
It is important to be honest about this – there…
15 Things You (Probably) Don’t Know About Svalbard – Gateway to the Arctic
Remote, icy, and hauntingly beautiful, Svalbard is an Arctic archipelago…