ITB Asia 2026: Experience Zones Put Experiential Travel in the Spotlight

ITB Asia

As travellers increasingly seek meaningful experiences rather than simply ticking destinations off a map, ITB Asia 2026 is putting experiential travel firmly at the centre of its Singapore showcase.

Asia's leading travel trade show will introduce a new collection of Experience Zones designed to highlight some of the fastest-growing areas of tourism, while the new Experience Pavilion powered by Tripadvisor will provide a dedicated meeting place for experience-led travel businesses, buyers and industry professionals.

Held from 21 to 23 October 2026 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre in Singapore, ITB Asia 2026 will bring together the international travel industry under its wider "Experiences in Motion" direction. The event is co-located with MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia, creating a broad business platform spanning leisure, corporate travel, MICE and travel technology.

A New Era of Experiential Travel

ITB Asia

The way people travel is changing.

For many travellers, the attraction of a destination is no longer simply its famous landmarks or luxury accommodation. Increasingly, visitors want to taste local food, meet communities, explore nature, discover cultural traditions, enjoy wellness experiences and participate in activities that create lasting memories.

ITB Asia's new Experience Zones respond directly to this shift.

The 2026 edition will introduce dedicated zones focusing on Gastronomy Tourism, Wellness Tourism and Adventure Tourism, giving exhibitors operating in these sectors greater visibility and providing buyers with more focused opportunities to discover new products and experiences.

This creates an important opportunity for destinations and travel businesses to demonstrate not just where people can travel, but what they can do when they arrive.

The Experience Pavilion Powered by Tripadvisor

One of the major new attractions at ITB Asia 2026 will be the Experience Pavilion powered by Tripadvisor.

The pavilion has been created around the growing importance of experiential travel and will provide a dedicated environment where exhibitors can inspire, engage and connect with international travel buyers and industry professionals.

Tripadvisor's involvement is particularly relevant as travellers increasingly use online platforms to research activities and experiences before and during their journeys.

The pavilion is designed to bring the experience economy closer to the travel trade, helping destinations and experience providers showcase products that can be incorporated into itineraries, packages, incentive programs and leisure holidays.

The result is expected to be a more dynamic environment where travel professionals can move beyond traditional destination promotion and explore the experiences that can make a trip genuinely memorable.

Adventure Tourism Takes Centre Stage

Adventure tourism

Adventure tourism has become an increasingly important part of the international travel market.

Today's adventure traveller can range from an experienced outdoor enthusiast seeking challenging activities to a leisure traveller looking for a gentle nature walk, cycling experience, wildlife encounter or outdoor excursion.

The dedicated Adventure Tourism Experience Zone at ITB Asia 2026 provides an opportunity for suppliers and destinations to showcase this diversity.

For Asia-Pacific destinations, adventure tourism can also provide a powerful way to spread visitor demand beyond major cities and established tourism centres.

Mountain regions, islands, forests, rivers, national parks and rural communities can all become part of a wider visitor experience, creating opportunities for tourism businesses while encouraging travellers to discover less familiar parts of a destination.

Wildlife Tourism and Nature-Based Experiences

Wildlife tourism 

Wildlife tourism is another area attracting growing attention from travellers who want closer connections with nature.

Responsible wildlife experiences can introduce visitors to unique ecosystems while supporting conservation, local communities and sustainable tourism initiatives.

For destinations, the challenge is to develop experiences that balance visitor access with environmental protection.

ITB Asia's broader focus on experience-led tourism provides a platform for destinations to demonstrate how nature-based travel can be developed responsibly while offering compelling experiences for international visitors.

From wildlife encounters and rainforest adventures to marine experiences and protected landscapes, nature can become one of the strongest reasons for travellers to choose a destination.

Integrated Resorts Offer More Than Accommodation

Integrated resorts

Integrated resorts also form part of the experience-led tourism landscape highlighted at ITB Asia.

Modern integrated resorts can combine accommodation, entertainment, dining, shopping, wellness, attractions and events within a single destination.

This makes them particularly relevant to both leisure and business travellers.

For MICE planners, integrated resorts can offer the advantage of combining conference facilities, accommodation, restaurants and entertainment in one location. For leisure travellers, they can provide a complete holiday environment with a wide choice of activities.

Resorts World Sentosa has been confirmed as the Official Integrated Resort Partner for ITB Asia 2026, reinforcing the importance of integrated destinations within the event's wider tourism showcase.

From Gastronomy to Wellness

The new Experience Zones also reflect two powerful trends shaping international tourism: food and wellness.

Gastronomy tourism allows destinations to promote their culinary identity through food markets, cooking classes, farm visits, restaurant experiences, local produce and regional cuisine.

Food can provide travellers with an immediate connection to the culture of a destination, turning a meal into a memorable part of the journey.

Wellness tourism takes a different but equally experience-driven approach.

Travellers are increasingly incorporating spa treatments, fitness, mindfulness, thermal bathing, yoga, nature retreats and other wellbeing experiences into their holidays.

By providing dedicated space for these sectors, ITB Asia 2026 gives travel professionals an opportunity to explore how these experiences can become commercially successful tourism products.

Experiences That Matter to MICE Travellers

ITB Asia

Experiential travel is not limited to leisure holidays.

MICE planners are increasingly searching for experiences that can make incentive programs, corporate retreats, conferences and business events more distinctive.

A destination may have an excellent convention centre, but memorable local experiences can help determine whether a destination stands out when companies are choosing where to hold an event.

ITB Asia recognises this connection between experiences and business events.

The event's wider program brings together leisure, MICE, corporate travel and travel technology, while its new experience-focused initiatives provide opportunities for MICE buyers to discover experiences that can be incorporated into future programs.

Connecting Experiences With International Buyers

For exhibitors, the value of the Experience Pavilion and Experience Zones extends beyond simply displaying products.

ITB Asia is a B2B travel trade event built around business connections, with international buyers and exhibitors meeting to develop partnerships and commercial opportunities.

The 2026 event is expected to attract more than 18,000 attendees from 132 countries and territories, according to ITB Asia's current exhibitor information. The show is also designed around pre-scheduled business appointments, helping suppliers connect with relevant buyers.

This business-focused environment is particularly important for experience providers seeking international distribution.

A unique local excursion may be attractive to travellers, but gaining access to overseas travel agents, tour operators, DMCs, corporate buyers and MICE planners can be the key to turning that experience into a successful international tourism product.

Why Experiential Travel Matters for Destinations

ITB Asia

The growth of experiential travel presents destinations with an opportunity to tell richer stories.

Instead of promoting only a city, beach or landmark, tourism organisations can promote a collection of experiences that encourage visitors to stay longer and explore more deeply.

A destination might combine heritage with gastronomy, wildlife with conservation, adventure with local communities, or wellness with nature.

This approach can also help distribute tourism benefits.

When travellers venture outside major gateways and spend money with local guides, restaurants, artisans, activity providers and community-based businesses, tourism can create economic opportunities across a broader area.

A Meeting Place for the Future of Travel

The introduction of the Experience Pavilion powered by Tripadvisor signals how rapidly the travel industry is moving towards experience-led tourism.

For exhibitors, it provides a new way to showcase products.

For buyers, it offers a focused environment for discovering experiences that can be incorporated into future travel programs.

For destinations, it provides an opportunity to communicate what makes their visitor experiences distinctive.

And for the wider travel industry, it reflects a fundamental change in the way holidays and business trips are being designed.

ITB Asia 2026 will therefore be about much more than destinations on a map. Its Experience Zones are designed to show what happens when travellers arrive, and how those experiences can become the defining memories of a journey.

ITB Asia 2026 in Singapore

ITB Asia

ITB Asia 2026 will be held from 21 to 23 October 2026 at the Sands Expo and Convention Centre, Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.

The event will be co-located with MICE Show Asia and Travel Tech Asia, creating one major B2B platform covering leisure travel, MICE, corporate travel and travel technology.

For trade professionals interested in experiential travel, the Experience Pavilion powered by Tripadvisor and the new Experience Zones will be among the features to watch as ITB Asia explores the future of tourism under its "Experiences in Motion" theme.

ITB Asia

Website: www.itb-asia.com
Email: media@itb-asia.com
Phone: +65 6027 7577
Address: 30 Raffles Place, #12-01, Singapore 048622

ITB Asia is organised by Messe Berlin Asia Pacific and supported by the Singapore Exhibition & Convention Bureau. The event brings together international travel industry professionals across leisure, MICE, corporate travel and travel technology.

For media enquiries, ITB Asia's official media contact is media@itb-asia.com.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

HX Expeditions Makes History With First Commercial Cruise Visit to Old Harbor, Alaska

HX Expeditions 

HX Expeditions has reached a significant milestone in Alaska with the first commercial cruise line visit to Old Harbor, an Alutiiq community on Kodiak Island.

The historic call took place on 2 August aboard MS Roald Amundsen, the world's first hybrid battery-powered cruise ship, during HX's Alaska and British Columbia Inside Passage, Bears and Aleutian Islands expedition.

Located on the southeastern coast of Kodiak Island, Old Harbor is one of the oldest continuously inhabited communities in the Kodiak Archipelago and has a rich Alutiiq cultural heritage.

A Community-Led Approach to Alaska Expedition Travel

The visit was developed in partnership with Old Harbor Native Corporation, creating a new opportunity for expedition travellers to experience the community through local stories, traditions and perspectives.

The Alutiiq Tribe of Old Harbor formally endorsed the inaugural visit, supporting tourism that allows the community to share its culture and history while creating economic opportunities for local residents.

For HX Expeditions, the visit reflects a growing focus on community-led exploration, where local people have an active role in determining how tourism develops and how their stories are presented to visitors.

Discovering Alutiiq Culture in Old Harbor

During the inaugural visit, HX guests explored Old Harbor with local community members and gained an insight into everyday life on Kodiak Island.

The experience included a visit to the Russian Orthodox Church and an opportunity to learn about food security initiatives at the community's hydroponic farm. Guests also discovered how subsistence practices continue to play an important role in local life.

At the Nuniaq Center, residents demonstrated traditional arts and crafts including beadwork, carving, painting and jewellery-making. Visitors were also invited to participate in augca'aq, a traditional Alutiiq dart game.

The community also prepared a traditional village home known as a ciqlluaq as part of its efforts to preserve and share Alutiiq and Sugpiaq heritage with visitors and future generations.

A Traditional Welcome for MS Roald Amundsen

HX Expeditions 

The historic visit concluded with a special welcome for the HX expedition ship.

Community leaders presented the ship's captain with a ceremonial paddle, representing welcome, friendship and safe passage.

The occasion marked not only the first commercial cruise visit to Old Harbor but also a new relationship between the community and expedition cruising.

Supporting Responsible Tourism in Alaska

Old Harbor's approach demonstrates how expedition tourism can provide opportunities for visitors while respecting local culture and community priorities.

Local leaders have highlighted the potential for cruise tourism to generate revenue through the purchase of Indigenous arts and crafts, sales taxes and docking fees, while creating opportunities for the community.

For travellers, the experience provides something that conventional sightseeing cannot easily offer: the opportunity to meet local people and hear directly about their culture, history and connection to the land.

Old Harbor to Join HX Expeditions' 2027 Program

Following its successful inaugural visit, Old Harbor will be included in HX Expeditions' 2027 program.

HX offers dedicated Aleutian Islands expeditions, including 18-day northbound and southbound voyages, providing travellers with opportunities to explore some of Alaska's more remote destinations.

The addition of Old Harbor gives future passengers another opportunity to experience Kodiak Island while supporting a community-led approach to tourism.

For travellers seeking an Alaska cruise that goes beyond the traditional ports, an expedition voyage through the Aleutian Islands can offer a very different perspective on the state's spectacular landscapes, wildlife and Indigenous cultures.

Why Visit Old Harbor on an Alaska Expedition Cruise?

HX Expeditions 

Old Harbor offers travellers the chance to experience a lesser-known side  of Alaska.

Rather than simply viewing the destination from a ship, visitors can meet community members, discover Alutiiq traditions and learn about the relationship between culture, environment and everyday life.

For expedition travellers, this combination of cultural connection, remote landscapes and community-led experiences makes Old Harbor a distinctive addition to an Alaska cruise itinerary.

HX Expeditions 

Website: https://www.hxexpeditions.com/
Address: HX Expeditions, Fred. Olsen House, Alix Street, Lerwick, Shetland, ZE1 0LL, United Kingdom

Old Harbor Native Corporation 

Website: https://www.oldharbornativecorp.com/
Address: Old Harbor, Kodiak Island, Alaska, United States

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Greater Mekong Unveils New Tourism Roadmap to Put Six Countries on the Global Travel Map

The Greater Mekong Subregion is embarking on an ambitious new chapter in tourism, with the adoption of the GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2026–2030 providing a coordinated roadmap for promoting one of Asia's most diverse and fascinating travel regions.

The new five-year plan brings together the six GMS member countries of Cambodia, China through Yunnan and Guangxi, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam under a shared Greater Mekong tourism marketing approach.

At its heart is a simple but powerful idea: by working together, the countries of the Greater Mekong can present the region as a connected collection of extraordinary destinations and experiences rather than competing individually for international visitors.

A New Era of Coordinated Greater Mekong Tourism Marketing

The GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2026–2030 is the first regional action plan specifically designed to implement the destination marketing priorities established under the GMS Tourism Strategy 2030.

The plan provides a framework for the six participating countries to coordinate their tourism marketing activities through 2030.

Rather than treating tourism promotion as a collection of separate national campaigns, the new approach aims to build a stronger regional identity around the Greater Mekong brand.

For international travellers, this has the potential to make the Greater Mekong easier to understand, discover and explore.

The region encompasses an extraordinary variety of landscapes, cultures, cuisines, historic sites, cities, rivers, communities and tourism experiences, making it one of Asia's most compelling multi-country travel destinations.

Six Countries, One Greater Mekong Story

The Greater Mekong Subregion brings together Cambodia, China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam.

Each country has its own distinctive identity, but together they form a remarkably interconnected travel region.

The Mekong River and its surrounding landscapes provide a geographical thread linking many communities and destinations, while centuries of cultural exchange have created connections in food, traditions, commerce, architecture and history.

The new marketing action plan seeks to use these connections to tell a stronger regional tourism story.

For travellers, that could mean greater awareness of multi-destination journeys that cross national borders and combine different experiences within one holiday.

A trip through the Greater Mekong can potentially encompass ancient temples, bustling cities, peaceful river landscapes, mountain communities, tropical coastlines, world-renowned cuisine and authentic cultural encounters.

Four Annual Regional Campaigns

Greater Mekong

One of the most significant elements of the new plan is the introduction of four annual regional tourism campaigns under the Greater Mekong brand.

These campaigns will provide a structured platform for showcasing destinations and experiences across the subregion.

The plan identifies 24 priority destinations spanning Cambodia, Yunnan and Guangxi in China, Lao PDR, Myanmar, Thailand and Viet Nam.

By concentrating marketing efforts around priority destinations, the initiative aims to create greater visibility for locations that can contribute to a more diverse regional tourism offering.

For travellers already familiar with the major gateways of Southeast Asia, this approach could also encourage discovery of destinations that are less prominent in international tourism marketing.

Promoting More Than the Famous Destinations

A particularly important feature of the roadmap is its focus on secondary destinations.

International tourism often concentrates heavily on a relatively small number of famous cities and attractions.

While these destinations remain important, spreading tourism more widely can create new opportunities for local communities and businesses while helping visitors discover different sides of the region.

The GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2026–2030 seeks to promote sustainable tourism experiences and secondary destinations as part of its wider marketing strategy.

This approach could help create a more balanced tourism economy, encouraging visitors to stay longer, travel further and experience a greater variety of places.

A Focus on Sustainable Tourism Experiences

Sustainability is another important component of the new Greater Mekong tourism roadmap.

The plan aims to promote sustainable tourism experiences as part of the region's future marketing.

This reflects a growing understanding across the global tourism industry that destination growth must be managed carefully.

The Greater Mekong contains sensitive natural environments, historic communities and culturally significant sites. Sustainable tourism can help protect these resources while ensuring that tourism continues to provide economic opportunities for local people.

For travellers, the emphasis on sustainability can also create opportunities to experience destinations in more responsible and meaningful ways.

Understanding the Travellers of Tomorrow

Greater Mekong

The new marketing plan also identifies priority traveller segments.

Understanding who is travelling, why they travel and what experiences they seek will be increasingly important as the international tourism industry evolves.

Today's travellers are increasingly interested in experiences rather than simply ticking attractions off a sightseeing list.

Food, culture, wellness, nature, adventure, heritage, community experiences and sustainable travel can all play an important role in destination choice.

A coordinated regional marketing strategy allows the Greater Mekong countries to identify common opportunities and promote experiences that appeal to international visitors seeking deeper connections with destinations.

A Digital-First Approach to Tourism Marketing

Digital marketing will play a central role in the implementation of the plan.

The GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan establishes a common approach to digital marketing, market intelligence and campaign monitoring.

This is particularly important because travellers increasingly research and book holidays online.

Social media, search engines, destination websites, video, digital storytelling and online travel platforms have transformed the way people discover destinations.

A coordinated digital presence can help the Greater Mekong compete more effectively for international attention while providing travellers with clearer information about destinations and experiences across the region.

Better Use of Tourism Market Intelligence

The plan also recognises the importance of market intelligence.

Understanding tourism markets is essential for developing effective marketing campaigns.

By sharing information and developing a more coordinated regional approach, the GMS countries can potentially gain a clearer understanding of international travel trends and changing visitor preferences.

This information can help destinations determine which markets to target, which experiences to promote and how campaigns can be measured.

For the tourism industry, better market intelligence can ultimately lead to more informed decision-making.

A Partnership Between Governments and the Tourism Industry

Greater Mekong

The GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan was prepared jointly by the GMS National Tourism Organizations and the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office, with technical support from the Asian Development Bank.

The plan also draws on consultations with public and private sector stakeholders.

This collaborative approach is important because tourism extends far beyond government tourism departments.

Hotels, airlines, tour operators, attractions, restaurants, destination-management organisations, event venues and local communities all play important roles in creating the visitor experience.

Successful regional tourism marketing therefore depends on cooperation across the entire tourism ecosystem.

Creating More Opportunities for Multi-Country Travel

The Greater Mekong is particularly well suited to multi-country tourism.

International visitors can potentially combine destinations across several countries within one extended journey, creating a richer travel experience than visiting a single destination.

A coordinated regional marketing strategy can help communicate these possibilities more effectively.

For long-haul travellers from markets such as Australia, Europe and North America, the opportunity to combine multiple countries within one holiday can make the region especially attractive.

For repeat visitors to Southeast Asia, the Greater Mekong brand can also encourage exploration beyond destinations they may already know.

A Five-Year Vision for Greater Mekong Tourism

Greater Mekong

The 2026–2030 action plan provides a five-year framework for coordinated destination marketing.

Its importance extends beyond individual campaigns.

The plan represents an effort to create a common regional approach to tourism promotion, combining destination marketing, digital communications, market intelligence, sustainability and collaboration.

Over the next five years, its success will depend on how effectively the strategy is translated into campaigns, partnerships and experiences that resonate with travellers.

The opportunity is considerable.

The Greater Mekong possesses some of Asia's most distinctive cultural, natural and culinary experiences, yet the region's destinations can still be perceived separately by international travellers.

A stronger regional identity could help change that.

The Greater Mekong: One Region, Many Journeys

For travellers, the new tourism roadmap promises an increasingly connected way to discover the Greater Mekong.

One journey could begin among Cambodia's historic treasures, continue through the landscapes and cultures of Lao PDR, explore Thailand's cities and islands, encounter the diverse destinations of Viet Nam and extend into Yunnan or Guangxi in China.

The possibilities are extensive.

The real strength of the Greater Mekong is not simply its individual destinations but the extraordinary variety and connections between them.

The GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2026–2030 seeks to harness that strength and communicate it to the world.

A Bright Future for Tourism Across the Greater Mekong

Greater Mekong

The adoption of the GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2026–2030 marks an important milestone in the development of coordinated tourism marketing across the Greater Mekong Subregion.

With four annual regional campaigns, 24 priority destinations, targeted traveller segments, sustainable tourism experiences, secondary destinations and a shared digital marketing and market-intelligence approach, the plan provides a clear framework for the next five years.

For travellers, the message is exciting: there is far more of the Greater Mekong to discover.

For the tourism industry, the roadmap creates an opportunity to work together to promote a connected regional destination with enormous cultural, natural and economic potential.

And for the millions of travellers searching for new experiences in Asia, the Greater Mekong is preparing to tell its story on an even bigger stage.

Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office

Website: https://mekongtourism.org/
Email: info@mekongtourism.org
Phone: +66 2 612 4377
Address: Bangkok, Thailand

The Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office supports regional tourism cooperation and destination marketing across the Greater Mekong Subregion.

For more information about the GMS Tourism Marketing Action Plan 2026–2030 and the Greater Mekong tourism strategy, visit the Mekong Tourism Coordinating Office website.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Whale Watching at Encounter Bay: Experience One of Australia's Greatest Marine Spectacles

South Australian Whale Centre

Every year, the waters of Encounter Bay on South Australia's stunning Fleurieu Peninsula become the stage for one of nature's most breathtaking performances. From late May through to spring, majestic southern right whales and humpback whales migrate along the coastline, offering visitors an extraordinary opportunity to witness these gentle giants in their natural habitat.

With dramatic coastal lookouts, excellent viewing platforms and one of Australia's most reliable whale migration routes, Encounter Bay has become one of the country's premier whale watching destinations.

Whether you're a dedicated wildlife enthusiast or simply hoping to experience an unforgettable moment in nature, whale watching at Encounter Bay is an experience that belongs on every Australian travel itinerary.

The Annual Whale Migration

As the cooler months arrive, thousands of whales begin their remarkable migration along Australia's southern coastline.

Southern right whales travel to the sheltered bays of South Australia to rest, breed and nurse their calves, while humpback whales pass through on their long journey between Antarctic feeding grounds and the warmer waters of northern Australia.

Encounter Bay offers ideal conditions for observing both species, with many whales coming surprisingly close to shore. Visitors often witness mothers gently guiding their calves through the calm waters while powerful adults surface for air before disappearing beneath the waves once more.

Every sighting is unique, making each visit an unforgettable wildlife experience.

The Bluff – Encounter Bay's Premier Whale Watching Lookout

One of the best places to spot whales is The Bluff, a spectacular headland overlooking Encounter Bay and the Southern Ocean.

From this elevated vantage point, visitors enjoy sweeping panoramic views across the coastline, making it much easier to scan the horizon for whale activity.

Bring a pair of binoculars, dress warmly and settle in for one of Australia's most rewarding wildlife experiences. Patience is often rewarded with incredible sightings.

The first sign may be a distinctive white plume of mist as a whale surfaces to breathe. Moments later, a dark back slowly rolls through the water before disappearing beneath the surface, leaving visitors eagerly waiting for the next appearance.

On particularly active days, multiple whales can be seen travelling through the bay.

Check the Latest Whale Sightings Before You Visit

South Australian Whale Centre

To improve your chances of seeing whales, it's worth checking the latest sighting reports before heading to the coast.

The South Australian Whale Centre regularly updates its whale sighting log throughout the migration season, providing valuable information about recent activity around Victor Harbor and Encounter Bay.

These updates help visitors choose the best time and location for viewing, making every whale watching adventure even more rewarding.

A Wildlife Experience You'll Never Forget

Whale watching is about much more than simply spotting marine mammals.

Standing high above the ocean, listening to the waves and suddenly seeing one of the world's largest animals emerge from the sea creates a sense of wonder that few travel experiences can match.

Combined with the spectacular scenery of the Fleurieu Peninsula, fresh sea air and abundant coastal wildlife, Encounter Bay offers an unforgettable nature experience that attracts visitors from across Australia and around the world.

Plan Your Whale Watching Adventure

South Australian Whale Centre

The whale watching season from late May through spring is one of the best times to explore South Australia's south coast.

Arrive early, allow plenty of time and remember that wildlife follows its own schedule. Every patient observer has the chance to witness one of the ocean's greatest spectacles as these magnificent whales continue their ancient migration along the coastline.

For photographers, families and nature lovers alike, Encounter Bay delivers one of Australia's finest shore-based whale watching experiences.

South Australian Whale Centre

Website: https://www.sawhalecentre.com.au
South Australian Tourism Commission Website: https://southaustralia.com

For more travel inspiration read the daily online The Holiday and Travel Magazine
https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Willoughby Symphony Orchestra Unveils an Extraordinary 2027 Season in Chatswood

Willoughby Symphony Orchestra

A spectacular year of orchestral music comes to Sydney’s North Shore

Music lovers across Sydney’s North Shore have plenty to look forward to with the announcement of the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra’s ambitious 2027 Season, bringing world-class soloists, celebrated orchestral masterpieces, Australian compositions, choral works and family concerts to Chatswood.

The 2027 Season was officially launched on Sunday 9 August 2026 at The Concourse, Chatswood, by Artistic Director and Chief Conductor Professor Dr Nicholas Milton AM.

Performing at its home in the Pat Reilly Concert Hall at The Concourse, the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra will present a diverse program designed to appeal to long-standing classical music enthusiasts as well as audiences discovering the orchestra for the first time.

The season promises an exciting combination of Beethoven, Tchaikovsky, Vaughan Williams, Sibelius, Respighi and Carl Orff, alongside new Australian music, internationally acclaimed soloists and productions created especially for younger audiences.

The Willoughby Symphony Orchestra has deep roots in the local community and was established in 1966. In 2026, the orchestra celebrates its 60th anniversary and continues to be recognised for performances of professional calibre and exceptional artistic quality.

Fate opens the 2027 concert season

The 2027 season begins in February with Fate, bringing together two monumental works from the orchestral repertoire.

Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 4 will feature internationally acclaimed pianist Konstantin Shamray, whose performances have earned widespread recognition for their technical brilliance and expressive intensity.

The concerto will be paired with Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 4, one of the Russian composer’s most dramatic and emotionally powerful symphonies.

Together, these works promise a compelling opening to the new season, combining virtuoso piano playing with the sweeping drama of the symphonic repertoire.

Sea and Stars celebrates music and Australian creativity

In May, Associate Conductor Dr Sarah Penicka-Smith will lead Sea and Stars, a program combining established European masterpieces with new Australian composition.

The concert will feature a world premiere by Australian composer Belinda Blades, alongside music by Beethoven and Vaughan Williams.

The Willoughby Symphony Choir will also perform, adding a powerful choral dimension to the program.

Audiences will additionally hear the winning composition from the 2027 Willoughby Symphony Young Composer Award.

The award has been an important initiative for more than two decades, providing emerging Australian orchestral composers with an opportunity to have their music performed by a full symphony orchestra.

The initiative demonstrates the orchestra’s continuing commitment to nurturing the next generation of Australian musical talent.

Highland Cathedral brings Scotland to Chatswood

Willoughby Symphony Orchestra

July will see the orchestra turn its attention towards Scotland with Highland Cathedral.

Celebrated Australian saxophonist Amy Dickson will join the orchestra, while the Scots College Old Boys Pipes and Drums will add the distinctive sound and spectacle of Scottish pipe band music.

The program will also feature Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2, a magnificent work known for its sweeping melodies, dramatic contrasts and powerful orchestral writing.

There will also be a change to the Saturday evening concert schedule during the colder months, with the orchestra moving its Saturday night performance to a 5pm twilight time.

The change reflects evolving audience preferences and provides an opportunity to enjoy an orchestral performance at an earlier hour.

Pines of Rome brings virtuoso trumpet to the stage

September’s Pines of Rome promises another spectacular orchestral experience.

Internationally acclaimed Australian trumpeter Dominic Longhurst will perform Arutiunian’s Trumpet Concerto, showcasing the extraordinary possibilities of the solo trumpet.

The program will culminate with Respighi’s Pines of Rome, one of the most colourful and cinematic works in the orchestral repertoire.

Respighi’s vivid orchestration evokes four locations around Rome and builds towards a spectacular musical finale, making it an ideal work for a concert designed to showcase the scale and power of a symphony orchestra.

Carmina Burana concludes the subscription season

The 2027 subscription season will culminate in November with Carl Orff’s Carmina Burana.

One of the most recognisable large-scale choral works of the 20th century, Carmina Burana combines orchestra, choir and solo voices in a work celebrated for its dramatic power and rhythmic energy.

Professor Dr Nicholas Milton AM will conduct the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra and Choir for this major production.

For audiences looking for an unforgettable large-scale musical experience in Sydney, Carmina Burana promises to be one of the highlights of the 2027 season.

Opera Gala and Spirit of Christmas add extra sparkle

Willoughby Symphony Orchestra

The 2027 program extends beyond the main subscription concerts with special performances designed to provide even more opportunities to experience live music in Chatswood.

Opera Gala will bring together international violinist Rosa Donata Milton, soloists from Pacific Opera and the Willoughby Symphony Choir for an evening celebrating the drama and beauty of opera.

Later in the year, the much-loved Spirit of Christmas concert will return in December, providing a festive conclusion to the orchestra’s 2027 program.

The concert has become an important part of the annual calendar, bringing audiences together for a celebration of music and the Christmas season.

Family concerts introduce a new generation to orchestral music

A particularly exciting aspect of the 2027 season is the orchestra’s continued commitment to families and young audiences.

Two 50-minute weekend productions have been created to make live orchestral music accessible, engaging and enjoyable for children and their families.

The world premiere of Rosie the Clown Joins the Orchestra will introduce young audiences to the different sounds and personalities within a symphony orchestra through an entertaining and interactive production.

Firebird for Families will offer a family-friendly retelling of Stravinsky’s magical ballet, introducing younger audiences to one of the great works of 20th-century orchestral music.

These shorter performances are designed to demonstrate that attending a symphony concert does not have to be an intimidating experience for children.

Instead, they offer an opportunity for families to discover the excitement, colour and storytelling possibilities of a live orchestra together.

A cultural destination in the heart of Chatswood

The Willoughby Symphony Orchestra is resident at The Concourse in Chatswood, placing its concerts at the centre of one of Sydney’s most accessible cultural precincts.

The Pat Reilly Concert Hall is the orchestra’s home and is known for its acoustics and intimate concert experience.

The Concourse is located in the heart of Chatswood, with the Chatswood Interchange only a short walk away. The interchange provides access to Sydney Trains, Sydney Metro and bus services, making the venue convenient for audiences travelling from across Sydney.

For visitors travelling from outside the North Shore, attending a Willoughby Symphony Orchestra concert can also be combined with an evening exploring Chatswood’s extensive dining, shopping and entertainment scene.

A season built around musical storytelling

Willoughby Symphony Orchestra

Announcing the 2027 Season, Professor Dr Nicholas Milton AM described the program as a rich and varied musical journey.

“Whether you are a long-standing audience member or joining us for the first time, this Season offers a rich and varied musical journey filled with passion, colour and musical storytelling,” he said.

That philosophy is evident throughout the 2027 program.

From Beethoven and Tchaikovsky to Australian composers, from Scottish pipes and drums to the monumental sound of Carmina Burana, and from opera to family storytelling, the season offers remarkably broad musical experiences.

The orchestra’s continuing investment in emerging composers and young audiences also ensures that the 2027 program is not simply about celebrating the great music of the past. It is also about developing the audiences and musicians who will shape the future.

60 years of music in the Willoughby community

The announcement of the 2027 Season comes at an important time for the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra.

Established in 1966, the orchestra is celebrating its 60th anniversary in 2026. It has grown into one of Australia’s most established community orchestras, with performances featuring some of Sydney’s finest musicians and internationally recognised guest artists.

The orchestra can feature up to 80 musicians on stage and presents an annual series spanning major symphonic repertoire, popular classics and family productions.

Its Young Composer Award has also provided an important pathway for emerging Australian composers for more than 20 years.

For Willoughby and Chatswood, the orchestra represents much more than a series of concerts. It is an important part of the cultural life of Sydney’s North Shore.

An exciting year ahead for Sydney music lovers

With internationally acclaimed soloists, major orchestral works, new Australian compositions, choral masterpieces, opera and family productions, the Willoughby Symphony Orchestra’s 2027 Season promises something for almost every music lover.

The combination of established classics and new creative voices makes the season particularly appealing for audiences seeking both familiar favourites and new musical discoveries.

For anyone planning cultural outings in Sydney during 2027, Chatswood deserves a place on the itinerary.

The Willoughby Symphony Orchestra’s 2027 Season offers an opportunity to experience outstanding live orchestral music in the intimate surroundings of the Pat Reilly Concert Hall while also discovering one of Sydney’s most vibrant North Shore cultural destinations.

Willoughby Symphony Orchestra

Website: www.willoughbysymphony.com.au
Email: wso@willoughby.nsw.gov.au
Media enquiries: 0461 315 183
Address: 31 Victor Street, Chatswood NSW 2067, Australia
Concert venue: Pat Reilly Concert Hall, The Concourse, 409 Victoria Avenue, Chatswood NSW 2067, Australia
Ticket enquiries: The Concourse Box Office, 02 8075 8111
Email: concourse_boxoffice@century.com.au

The Willoughby Symphony Orchestra is proudly managed by Willoughby City Council. For tickets and further information, visit the official Willoughby Symphony Orchestra website or The Concourse.

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Max Llewelyn: The Independent Australian Travel Editor Connecting Readers with the World

 For more than a decade, Australian travel editor Max Llewelyn has been building an independent voice in tourism journalism through The Holiday and Travel Magazine, bringing readers stories about destinations, hotels, airlines, tourism experiences, business events, festivals, culture and the people shaping the travel industry.

Based in New South Wales, Llewelyn is the Editor of The Holiday and Travel Magazine, an independent online travel publication that has developed a substantial archive of travel and tourism stories since its establishment in 2011.

His professional journey reflects a longstanding commitment to travel journalism and to maintaining direct connections with the tourism industry rather than simply reporting from a distance.

A Career Built Around Travel Journalism

Llewelyn's public professional profile identifies him as an experienced Travel Editor with a demonstrated history in the leisure and travel sector. His LinkedIn profile lists The Holiday and Travel Magazine as his professional role and has attracted hundreds of followers and more than 500 professional connections.

The magazine's archive provides another indication of the longevity of his work.

Articles published under his editorship stretch back to the magazine's earliest years, with posts from 2011 identifying Max as the person behind the publication.

That longevity is significant in an online media environment where travel websites and publications frequently appear and disappear.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine has continued to publish destination features, hotel stories, tourism news, event coverage and travel-industry developments over many years, establishing an extensive searchable archive.

Recognised as a Travel Writer More Than a Decade Ago

One of the earliest publicly searchable indications of Llewelyn's standing within the Australian travel industry comes from 2012.

Travel Daily's published list of nominees for the AFTA National Travel Industry Awards included Max Llewelyn in the Best Travel Writer category alongside a group of established Australian travel journalists.

The nomination placed Llewelyn among recognised names in Australian travel writing at a time when traditional travel journalism and the rapidly developing online travel-media sector were undergoing considerable change.

More than a decade later, he continues to work in travel media.

Taking an Australian Perspective to International Tourism

One of the most revealing examples of Llewelyn's approach to travel journalism came during a Vietnam tourism promotion in Sydney in 2018.

Vietnam's national news agency, VietnamPlus, reported on the Vietnam tourism promotion program for Australia and New Zealand and specifically identified Max Llewelyn from The Holiday and Travel Magazine as an attendee.

The report noted that Llewelyn had travelled to Vietnam four times but attended the Sydney event to discover more about Vietnam's tourism products, new hotels and other tourism services. He also discussed what he believed attracted Australian travellers to Vietnam, including its culture, food, history, entertainment and relatively low costs.

That example illustrates an important characteristic of his work: continuing to seek new information even about destinations he has previously visited.

For a travel editor, that willingness to keep asking questions and investigating what is changing within a destination is an important part of remaining relevant.

An Active Participant in the Tourism Industry

Llewelyn's professional activity extends beyond writing and publishing.

Public attendee records show him participating in major travel and tourism industry events, including the Asia Pacific Incentives and Meetings Event in Melbourne, the International Media Marketplace in Sydney and the Travel Marketing Summit. These listings identify him as Editor at The Holiday and Travel Magazine.

He has also been listed among participants at tourism conferences, including the Destination and Visitor Economy Conference in Maitland in 2026.

This involvement gives Llewelyn opportunities to meet tourism boards, destination representatives, hotel executives, event professionals, airlines, attractions, convention bureaux and other industry representatives.

For an independent publication, those relationships provide access to the information and contacts needed to report on an increasingly international tourism industry.

A Magazine Covering More Than Holidays

Although the publication's name is The Holiday and Travel Magazine, its editorial coverage extends well beyond traditional leisure holidays.

Its stories encompass international and Australian destinations, hotels and resorts, business events, MICE, tourism conferences, festivals, performing arts, attractions, aviation and emerging travel experiences.

This breadth is reflected in Llewelyn's recent professional activity.

His LinkedIn profile, for example, shows him continuing to cover performing arts as well as travel, including his attendance at the Australian premiere of Tootsie at Teatro at The Italian Forum in Sydney and subsequent publication of a feature about the production.

The approach reflects the increasingly interconnected nature of travel journalism, where theatre, food, culture, festivals and entertainment are important components of the visitor experience.

A Long-Term Independent Voice

Perhaps the most notable aspect of Max Llewelyn's professional story is consistency.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine has remained an independent publication for many years, continuing to publish while the travel-media landscape has undergone enormous change.

Its archive demonstrates a sustained commitment to covering tourism and travel rather than being a short-lived online project.

An article published by the magazine in 2016 recorded the publication reaching an important readership milestone and described its coverage of tourism, MICE, corporate travel, destinations, hotels, musicals and events.

Today, the magazine continues that broad editorial approach.

Connecting Tourism Professionals with Travellers

Travel journalism has an important role in connecting the tourism industry with potential travellers.

For tourism organisations, destination marketers and travel businesses, independent editorial coverage can provide an opportunity to explain what makes a destination or experience worth discovering.

For readers, travel media can provide ideas and information that help them decide where to go, what to experience and what to include in a future itinerary.

Llewelyn's work sits within that connection between the industry and the travelling public.

His attendance at industry events, conversations with tourism representatives and continuing publication of destination stories demonstrate a hands-on approach to travel media.

A Professional Reputation Built Through Activity

There are relatively few public websites devoted specifically to reviewing Max Llewelyn as an individual journalist.

That is worth acknowledging.

Rather than relying on anonymous online commentary or unverified claims about his personality, the public record provides something more useful: evidence of what he has actually done professionally.

That record includes a longstanding editorial position, an extensive publication archive, a 2012 Best Travel Writer nomination, participation in international tourism promotion, attendance at major industry events and continuing publication of travel and cultural stories.

Taken together, those activities paint a picture of an established independent Australian travel editor whose professional reputation has been built over time through publishing, industry engagement and relationships with the wider tourism community.

Still Discovering the World

Perhaps the best description of Max Llewelyn's approach to travel journalism is that the journey has continued.

Even after years of visiting destinations and attending tourism events, he continues to seek new stories, meet new people and discover new experiences.

That curiosity is at the heart of good travel journalism.

It is also what allows The Holiday and Travel Magazine to continue providing its readers with stories that range from international destinations and hotels to festivals, performing arts and the business events industry.

For Max Llewelyn, travel journalism is not simply about recording where people go.

It is about discovering why they go, what they find when they arrive and what makes a destination or experience memorable.

An Enduring Contribution to Independent Travel Media

In an era of rapidly changing digital media, maintaining an independent travel publication over many years is itself an achievement.

Max Llewelyn's professional record demonstrates persistence, curiosity and a continuing engagement with Australia's tourism industry and the international destinations that attract Australian travellers.

From being recognised among Australia's Best Travel Writer nominees in 2012 to participating in international tourism events and continuing to publish stories today, his career demonstrates a sustained commitment to travel journalism.

The result is a distinctive independent voice within Australian travel media and a publication that continues to connect readers with destinations, experiences and the people behind the tourism industry.

For readers searching for travel inspiration and for tourism professionals looking for an established Australian travel-media outlet, Max Llewelyn and The Holiday and Travel Magazine represent a longstanding presence in the country's independent online travel publishing landscape.

The Holiday and Travel Magazine

Website: https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Editor: Max Llewelyn

Publication established: 2011

Focus: Travel, tourism, destinations, hotels, business events, MICE, culture, festivals and travel experiences

Location: New South Wales, Australia

For more travel inspiration read the daily online "The Holiday and Travel Magazine" https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/

Waiheke Wine Tours: Discover New Zealand's Ultimate Island Wine Adventure

Waiheke Wine Tours

Experience Award-Winning Wine Tours on Beautiful Waiheke Island

Just a scenic 40-minute ferry journey across the sparkling waters of Auckland's Waitematā Harbour lies one of New Zealand's most celebrated wine destinations. Waiheke Island is renowned for its boutique vineyards, spectacular coastal scenery and relaxed island lifestyle, and there is no better way to experience it all than with Waiheke Wine Tours.

As a first time exhibitor at MEETINGS 2026, Waiheke Wine Tours showcased why it has become New Zealand's most Google-reviewed wine tour company. Combining award-winning service, authentic local knowledge and visits to some of the country's finest wineries, the company offers unforgettable experiences for leisure travellers, conference delegates and incentive groups alike.

Recognised with the prestigious Gold Qualmark and the Registered Trademark of New Zealand's official mark of tourism quality and excellence, Waiheke Wine Tours has earned a reputation for delivering exceptional island adventures.

A Perfect Escape from Auckland

One of the greatest attractions of Waiheke Island is its easy accessibility.

Visitors simply board a ferry in downtown Auckland before enjoying a relaxing cruise across the beautiful Waitematā Harbour. Within just 40 minutes, travellers arrive in an entirely different world where rolling vineyards, olive groves, golden beaches and breathtaking coastal landscapes create one of New Zealand's premier tourism destinations.

The journey itself offers magnificent harbour views before guests begin exploring the island's many hidden treasures.

Taste Some of New Zealand's Finest Wines

Waiheke Wine Tours

Wine is at the heart of every Waiheke Wine Tours experience.

Each itinerary has been carefully designed to introduce guests to a selection of premium vineyards renowned for producing outstanding wines. Visitors enjoy guided tastings featuring award-winning varietals while learning about the island's unique climate, volcanic soils and winemaking traditions that have helped establish Waiheke as one of New Zealand's leading wine regions.

Every vineyard has been selected to provide visitors with an authentic and memorable tasting experience while showcasing the diversity and quality of Waiheke wines.

Authentic Kiwi Hospitality from Local Guides

What truly distinguishes Waiheke Wine Tours is its team of genuine local tour guides.

Their passion for the island shines through every tour as they share fascinating stories about Waiheke's history, culture, communities and hidden gems. Their friendly Kiwi hospitality creates a welcoming atmosphere that transforms each excursion into a personalised journey rather than simply a sightseeing trip.

Guests gain unique local insights that only residents can provide, making every tour both informative and entertaining.

More Than Wine – Discover the Beauty of Waiheke Island

Although the vineyards are undoubtedly a highlight, Waiheke Wine Tours also introduces visitors to the island's spectacular natural beauty.

Scenic drives reveal panoramic views stretching across the Hauraki Gulf towards Auckland's skyline and the distant Coromandel Peninsula. Along the way, visitors discover picturesque villages, pristine beaches, luxury homes, native bush and peaceful bays that define the island's relaxed lifestyle.

The combination of exceptional wines and unforgettable scenery creates an experience that appeals equally to wine enthusiasts and first-time visitors.

Tailored Experiences for Every Traveller

Whether travelling as a couple, family, conference delegate or corporate incentive group, Waiheke Wine Tours offers flexible touring options to suit every occasion.

Guests can choose from a variety of carefully curated tours or work with the experienced team to create a customised itinerary tailored to their specific interests. From intimate private tours to larger group experiences, every itinerary is designed to deliver the very best of Waiheke Island.

For conference organisers attending business events in Auckland, the tours also provide an ideal pre- or post-conference activity that combines networking, sightseeing and exceptional food and wine.

An Unforgettable New Zealand Experience

Waiheke Wine Tours

Waiheke Island has earned international recognition as one of the world's great island wine destinations, and Waiheke Wine Tours continues to set the standard for showcasing everything the island has to offer.

With its award-winning service, spectacular scenery, premium vineyards and authentic local hospitality, it is easy to understand why visitors consistently rate the experience among the highlights of their New Zealand holiday.

Whether visiting Auckland for business or leisure, a day exploring Waiheke Island with Waiheke Wine Tours is an experience that should not be missed.

Waiheke Wine Tours

4 Totara Road, Onetangi, Waiheke Island, New Zealand
Telephone: +64 9 372 7342
Website: https://waiheke-winetours.co.nz/
Contact: Sharon Killen

For more travel, tourism and business events news from around the world, visit the daily online edition of The Holiday and Travel Magazine at https://theholidayandtravelmagazine.blogspot.com/