Travel Update: Extension of Visa-Free Travel to China

Beijing has announced an extension of its visa-free entry scheme for Australians (and other nations) until 31 December 2026 to help boost tourism and encourage foreign engagement. 

• Eligible Australian travellers can now enter China visa-free for up to 30 days for tourism, business, family visits or transit.
• The scheme includes 45 nations covering Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, 32 European countries, and many South American and Gulf nations.
• Countries not included are the UK, US and Canada.
• This extension is expected to strengthen confidence in travel to China.

Now's the time to book your 2026 visa-free educational tour to China. Call us now to start planning!

Travel Update: USA Electronic Entry Requirement Price Change

Travellers to the USA are required to apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) prior to arrival. Australia is part of the USA's Visa Waiver Program so it is mandatory for Australian passport holders to apply for an ESTA for trips under 90 days for business or leisure. Starting 1st October 2025 the cost of an ESTA will increase to US$40 (approximately AUD$60).  

Click here to find out more.

2026 School Term & Holiday Dates

We've compiled this comprehensive list of the 2026 school term and holiday dates throughout Australia, ensuring you're all set to blend learning with unforgettable experiences.

Travel Update: New Entry Requirement for Indonesia “All Indonesia” Digital Declaration

Starting 18 August 2025 all travelers arriving into Indonesia must complete the “All Indonesia” digital declaration prior to entry. This new system streamlines immigration, customs, and health declarations into a single online form—making the arrival process faster and more efficient. Currently, the declaration is available for arrivals into Jakarta, Surabaya, and Bali airports, with expansion to all international airports and ports coming soon.

What you need to do:

• Submit your declaration via allindonesia.imigrasi.co.id or by scanning the “All Indonesia” QR code.
• Complete the form within 3 days before arrival—ideally before departing for Indonesia.
• After submission, you’ll receive a QR code to present at immigration and customs.
• You’ll also get a link to pre-purchase your Visa on Arrival (VoA).

Planning ahead will help ensure a smooth and hassle-free entry into Indonesia.

Travel Update: New Entry Requirements in Europe starting soon

Starting 12 October 2025 a new digital European Union EU Entry/Exit System (EES) will commence. Details of non-EU nationals (including Australians) will be registered when entering one of the 29 European countries that make up the Shengen Area (including Italy, France, Germany and Spain). European countries using the EES will gradually introduce the new system at their external borders, with full implementation by 10 April 2026.

When you enter the Shengen Area on your first visit to Europe on the commencement of the EES, all travellers will be required to show their passports, have their fingerprints and photo taken and answer Schengen Border Code questions, creating a digital record. 

The EES registration is free and should only take a few minutes, however you may experience longer border queues. Click here for the full details from Smartraveller.

Big Savings Alert! PACER Rebate increased by 50% for Canberra School Tours

The Australian Government's Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program is offering 50% increased rebates for the remainder of 2025! Visit PACER for eligibility and requirements.

Your school tour must include at least three of the four mandatory PACER institutions:  

• Australian Parliament House (Guided Tour)
• Museum of Australian Democracy
• National Electoral Education Centre 
• Australian War Memorial

What a great time to plan your school's next Canberra trip - contact us NOW!

Japan Beckons: A Travel Boom Like No Other

Japan is experiencing a remarkable tourism surge, with over 33 million international visitors recorded in 2024 alone—a new national record that’s turning heads across the travel industry. From the neon-lit streets of Tokyo to the tranquil temples of Kyoto and the powdery slopes of Hokkaido, travelers are flocking to the Land of the Rising Sun in record numbers.

Read about what we can offer on our Japan tours.

International Museum Day 2025 - A Global Celebration

On Sunday 18 May 2025 museums across the globe will open their doors to visitors in celebration of International Museum Day. Since its inception in 1977, International Museum Day has grown significantly, with thousands of museums participating each year. The event serves as a reminder that museums are more than just places of preservation—they are hubs of innovation, education, and cultural dialogue. There are also some quirky museums out there that deserve a mention too. Here’s a list of some not so well-known museums that you might want to add to your travel bucket list.

It’s back! The Outback Queensland Education Experience Program is now open.

Queensland schools can once again apply for funding to help cover the costs of an educational tour in Outback Queensland! This vast area of Queensland offers learning opportunities in nature, astronomy, dinosaurs and pioneering life. Eligible schools (primary and secondary) can receive up to $130 per student, based on the round-trip distance travelled. Applications close at 5pm on 31st December 2025. For more information click here.