New Zealand & Australia

Arrive in Melbourne, where you are met and transferred to your luxurious hotel, with your room pre-registered by A&K for immediate check-in. Roam Melbourne's fine arts and sporting precincts as well as its lush parklands, and view cultural and historic highlights, such as the State Library and the Royal Exhibition Building. Tonight, gather for a welcome dinner

Park Hyatt Melbourne
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Meals: Dinner

Fly to Cairns, gateway to the Great Barrier Reef and Daintree Rainforest, one of the oldest rainforests in the world. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel, where you dine tonight while enjoying views of the Coral Sea.

Crystalbrook Riley
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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Travel overland to Wildlife Habitat Port Douglas, which you explore privately with a park ranger, enjoying access to the koala and wallaby enclosures as well as the opportunity to hold a koala in your arms, on an experience designed exclusively for A&K guests. Also, visit the Wildlife Care Center for rescued wild and injured animals and explore the park at your leisure. Next, head out to a cattle station on the rich, fertile tablelands. You are personally welcomed onto this private property and into the historic homestead, which remains the family home. Built in 1878, it offers you a wonderful insight into the pioneering heritage of Australia. Following a hearty Aussie barbecue lunch on the verandah, hear a talk on cattle from the station owner and learn about the history of the station, their commercial beef cattle and the family's sustainable land management practices. Also witness a whip cracking demonstration by the station master after which you may choose to try your hand at this venerable cattleman's skill. Then, return to Cairns for time at leisure.

Crystalbrook Riley
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Rise early and set out for Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), stopping to view sunrise over its majestic domes. In the company of your guide, walk through Walpa Gorge and learn how its stark landscapes were shaped. This afternoon, return to Uluru and journey along the Mala walk at its base, pausing to view cave paintings and sources of bush tucker. Later, see the walls of Kantju Gorge ablaze with the light of the setting sun. Sip sparkling wine and nibble on canapés, savoring the solitude of the gorge as the daylight fades.

Longitude 131°
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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

After breakfast, privately cruise Sydney Harbour, viewing the city's inspiring highlights, including the Sydney Opera House and Harbor Bridge. Back on shore, gather for lunch at the iconic Sydney Opera House, followed by a privately guided backstage tour. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure. The next day is also at your leisure to explore the city until you regroup for the final dinner of your journey in Australia.

Four Seasons Hotel Sydney
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch (Day 9); Breakfast, Dinner (Day 10)

Set out on foot to gain an insider's understanding of the locals and a delightful Chef's Table experience, joining your guide for tastings of coffee, chocolate, gelato and cheeses in foodie hotspots only the locals know. After lunch, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

• Visit the Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa to view its vast collection of cultural and indigenous treasures.
• e-Bike the Wellington Waterfront, learning about key historical figures that shaped the city's heritage as you ride.
• Walk the Wellington Waterfront with a Guide who recounts local legends and stroll to a chic shopping district.

Return to your hotel.

InterContinental Wellington
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

This morning, fly to Milford Sound (weather permitting), taking in the stunning alpine views along the way. Upon arrival, board a spacious vessel for a tour of the sound's majestic scenery. Cruise New Zealand's southern fjords amid towering cliffs, viewing sparkling waterfalls while watching for wildlife, such as seals basking on the rocks or dolphins frolicking in the water. Return by air to Queenstown for an evening at leisure.

Sofitel Queenstown Hotel & Spa
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Meals: Breakfast

Fly to Auckland, where you visit the Auckland Museum to enjoy a cultural performance and a guided walk of He Taonga Maori Gallery. This evening, gather for a special farewell dinner. The next day, transfer to the airport and depart.

Park Hyatt Auckland
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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (Day 16); Breakfast (Day 17)