Gary Topic
I am immensely proud of my beautiful, stunning country and love to show it off to visitors. I get a real buzz when someone from overseas says, "Wow, that was amazing."
I am also an explorer by nature. Anytime a visit I new place or a new city, I maximize my time by taking a long walk just to find out what else there is to see, and what little gems I might be able to share with others. I love to find those secret hidden places, known only by locals (and me). The fun part is, the learning is never-ending! Sharing my knowledge with others is my dream job.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Our nationwide network of local partners enables us to deliver a portfolio of highly rated experiences, accommodating a wide range of budgets, standards of comfort & uniqueness and levels of activity. From join-in coach tours to self-drives, from camping or glamping to the comforts of luxury accommodation, from professional surfing lessons to (self-)guided nature hikes. You tell us what you expect from your dream-holiday to Australia, chances are we will make it happen!"
How did you get involved in travel?
"I think I was born to travel. My first big trip was a cruise from Sydney to the US, plus an overland trip to visit my Nanna and Pappa in Illinois, at the age of two. But the travel bug really bit on my very first school excursion. I was captivated by the idea that one could get into a car, bus, train or plane and explore entirely new places, meet different people, and experience amazing scenery. That excursion was to the Barrington Tops in the Upper Hunter Valley and I still take my daughters to explore this wonderful landscape today.
Our parents took us on wonderful, memorable road trips across the country to Adelaide and Brisbane. As soon as I gained independence, I began dragging my friends around Australia on road trips, Mystery Flights and interstate weeks away.
At age 18, I organized my first group coach tour to see Phantom of the Opera in Melbourne. I really wanted to see it but I figured why not see it with 50 friends? This was followed by two more coach trips to World Expo in Brisbane and two weeks around Tasmania.
After a stint working in administration, I commenced in the travel industry in 1998. Since then I have worked arranging group tours around Australia and New Zealand, and also as a tour director and sometimes driver in both countries. I know most Australian destinations like the back of my hand and can genuinely say that the entire country feels like my home."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"I was driving a tour group across outback Northern Territory when we stopped at the Devils Marbles. The plan was to camp in tents there overnight. We clambered to the top of the highest rocks (I knew a secret way) to watch a stunning sunset. But from that vantage point we could see a desert storm approaching in the distance. We decided to drive to Wycliffe Well to instead enjoy some more solid accommodation. From there we watched in awe at the most intense electrical storm I have ever seen, by far. The dark approaching clouds were simply mesmerizing, as they lit up with never ending lightning flashes ... about 5 per second. When at last it hit, we were glad we had skipped the tents. Wow, such powerful wind and driving rain. The whole experience made us feel small, humble and in absolute amazement."
Featured trips & expertise
Australia East Coast Family Adventure - 13 Days
Featuring an energetic mix of wildlife excursions and fun outdoor adventures, this 13-day itinerary is a great introduction to Australia for the whole family. Take a selfie with the cute koalas at Brisbane's Koala Sanctuary then dive into the Mossman River for a snorkeling tour. Who knows, you might even find the elusive platypus! Spend the day discovering the Great Barrier Reef, then fly to Sydney, where a tour of the Royal Opera House and a trip to the spectacular Blue Mountains conclude this memorable family trip.
Melbourne & the Great Ocean Road Self-Drive Adventure - 8 Days
Embark on an eight-day adventure down Australia's marvelous southeastern coast. Begin with city tours of Melbourne, an eclectic coastal capital quickly emerging as a tourism hotspot. Then get behind the wheel for an unforgettable road trip down the famous Great Ocean Road, which stretches for 150 miles (241 km) amid golden beaches and unspoiled natural parks. In these natural wonderlands, you'll enjoy outdoor adventures and First Nations culture in equal measure.
9 Days in Australia - 4 Unique Itinerary Ideas
With nine days to travel within Australia, you can cover two to three states, provided you board a quick domestic flight from one region to the next. Whether you're looking to check out tropical rainforests and the Great Barrier Reef, take in the panoramic desert views of Uluru in the Red Centre, or explore cities like Sydney, Brisbane, and Perth, these four itineraries showcase the best of Australia.
Coastal Queensland: Brisbane, Gold Coast, Great Barrier Reef & More - 14 Days
A trip along the coast is a great way to experience the full range of sights and activities available in the Sunshine State of Queensland. On this two-week tour, you'll snorkel at the Great Barrier Reef, lounge on white-sand beaches on the Whitsunday Islands, come face-to-face with koalas near Brisbane, and much more.
Best of Australia: Melbourne to Sydney - 11 Days
This trip to Australia starts in Melbourne with city exploration, a scenic drive along Great Ocean Road, and a visit to the penguins of Phillip Island. Head to the center of the country to explore Uluru, also known as Ayers Rock, with sunrise hikes through the national park, stargazing tours, and the Field of Light art exhibit. End your trip in Sydney where you'll cruise the harbor, tour historic neighborhoods, visit nearby beaches, and explore the Blue Mountains.
How Many Days to Spend in Sydney
As Australia's largest city, you could spend several weeks in Sydney and still not run out of things to see and do. But, most travelers don't have this long. If you're short on time, the priorities should be seeing some of the central city's landmarks, whereas if you have a few days you can make some day trips to natural attractions further afield. So, how many days should you spend in Sydney? Read on to find out more about your options.
Recent trip reviews for Gary
Gary was very helpful to us during the trip
Australia
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Oct 19 - Oct 26, 2022
Gary was very helpful to us during the trip read more
