I had the pleasure of exploring parts of New Zealand and Australia the entire month of April 2014 on an adventure planned for me by Australia 2000 Travel. Places that were once dots on a map are now cherished memories.

Those of you who are contemplating working with Australia 2000 to craft your own adventure may be asking what travel experiences I?ve had with which to compare the trip in New Zealand and Australia. I am 70 years old and have visited all 50 states of the US and 46 additional countries and territories. I have planned my own trips, used the services of professional travel agents, and enjoyed group tours. My experience with Australia 2000 literally tops the list.

Australia 2000?s knowledgeable staff combined their detailed knowledge of the region with my personal interests to craft a trip that met or exceeded by expectations in every particular. I visited ten cities (all but two for multiple days) and had one overnight cruise. Every connection worked flawlessly. Accommodations were excellent (I wouldn?t hesitate to use the same accommodations on future visits). At three locations I had personal guides, each of whom was exceptional.

If you choose to work with Australia 2000, it is important to commit yourself to a joint planning effort. If you are willing to work with them by communicating your interests, any special requirements, and what you hope to gain from the experience, the staff will work hard to provide an adventure custom-designed to your expectations. In my case, for example, I don?t feel I?ve learned about a city until I?ve walked its streets at different times of day. Australia 2000 selected accommodations that were centrally located in cities and towns, making it possible to begin exploring simply by stepping out my door. Similarly, I love to hike and asked Australia 2000 for opportunities to experience New Zealand?s legendary national parks. I enjoyed three great day hikes, two on my own and one with a professional guide.

On the other hand, Australia 2000?s planners recommended an overnight cruise in New Zealand?s Fiordland National Park, something that wasn?t on my original list of interests. I accepted their recommendation, which turned out to be a high-light of the trip.

Cost is always a consideration when planning trips. I received outstanding value for what I spent on a month-long adventure in a unique part of the world. Pre-paying Australia 2000 for the full cost of the trip (except for meals, personal purchases, and some local transportation) freed me to enjoy the experience, confident that all the large expenses were already covered.

I?ve long wanted to visit the lands ?Down-Under?, Australia 2000?s professionals transformed my dream into reality.

Fred Glaeser