Amazing Australia Aboard Crystal Cruises

For Susan Gould - one of Bon Voyage Travel's most knowledgable advisors - travel is not only her profession, but her passion. Read the highlights from her recent trip to Australia and surrounding areas with her husband aboard the stunning Crystal Symphony from Sydney to Bali.

"One of the best memories I have and a highlight of this trip was the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary in Brisbane," recounts Susan. “It was very natural and we got to hold the koalas.” Susan and her husband also had fun watching the sheep-shearing demonstration and seeing the kangaroos up close.

They enjoyed learning about the history of Darwin, located at the top of the continent, as the only place in Australia that was attacked in WWII by the Japanese. “They have a great tribute to the war with monuments,” she said. “Plus, there is a Chinese influence with a lot of Buddhist temples.”

Susan recommends arriving in Sydney a few days early to explore the city’s many attractions, including the Sydney Opera House, the bridge over Darling Harbour and the historical “Rocks,” where many of Australia’s early settlers landed. They also visited the Blue Mountains just outside of Sydney. “It’s just such a beautiful area,” she said.

As they finished their trip, she appreciated the new and modern airport in Dempasar, Bali, and was impressed by the Christmas spirit in the Singapore airport. “We were there at Christmas time,” she said. “And the airport was decorated so beautifully.”

On her all-inclusive Crystal Cruise, Susan said their suite was luxurious, larger than expected and very comfortable. “Along with the accomodations, Crystal also does a fabulous job on their service and their food,” she said. “Their entertainment is really top-notch.”

One of Susan’s favorite spots on the ship was the intimate Bistro Lounge, which was open for breakfast, lunch and afternoon teas. She and her husband especially enjoyed a crew member named Noel, who works in the lounge and has been on every Crystal cruise that Susan and her husband have been on. "Even though Noel's interacted with thousands of passengers, he always remembers our names...even when its been a few years between sailings." Susan believes that Crystal's service may be unmatched in luxury cruising.

Susan especially appreciated the informative guest speakers, including well-known personalities. Conservative talk show host Hugh Hewitt was on board her sailing talking about history and politics, which she enjoyed very much. “The day before each port, there was also a speaker who would give you great information about where you were going to be the next day,” she said. “I think Crystal has some of the best lecturers and enriching programming of any cruise line.” Especially for first-time cruisers, she suggests taking advantage of everything available on the ship and learning as much as you can.

“And don't forget to enjoy the experience of meeting new people on board,” she said. “You'll meet likeminded people from all over the world...a few of whom may become lifeling friends!”