Ian McIntosh's top travel deals - Qantas Summer Sale

Travellers are increasingly choosing itineraries that prioritise independence over rigid structure. Active travel specialist UTracks is seeing this play out across its European program, with increased demand for self-guided trips that combine pre-arranged logistics with day-to-day flexibility.

QANTAS summer sale ends on July 24 - so hurry. Save on flights across Australia for a range of travel dates between December 2026 and February 2027. Fares start from $99 one-way in Economy, or $279 one-way in Business.

Ian McIntosh's top travel deals - Vietnam Eco Wellness

The annoying days when you had to scrounge around for a pen and your passport to fill in a green arrivals card will soon end it seems. The Government is finally going digital.

AUKO  Eco-Wellness Lodges, Vietnam's newest regenerative luxury wellness retreat, will officially open for bookings from 20 July 2026. The all-inclusive retreat has been designed for travellers seeking meaningful adventure, restorative wellness and a genuine connection with nature. Guests who book directly through the Auko website from 20 July will receive an exclusive 20% saving together with additional value-added benefits. More details here: https://aukoways.com

Ian McIntosh's top travel deals - Tahiti cruise savings

Active travel company UTracks says multi-day walking holidays have become an increasingly important as travellers seek experiences linked not just to sightseeing, but to physical and mental wellbeing.

PONANT in partnership with Air Tahiti Nui is offering reduced cost direct airfares from Sydney to connect with voyages sailing between 15 December and 29 June 2027.

Ian McIntosh's top travel deals - Emirates Europe Deals

Flight bookings from Australia through the Middle East have soared according to Emirates. The Dubai based carrier is back on top of the world  - well not quite - but the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. 

EMIRATES is offering value deals to Europe and free nights at the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai. Get one night when you fly in Economy or two if you are in  Business. Book return flights by 12 July.

Ian McIntosh's top travel deals - Middle East Airline Updates

UTRACKS says the Australian Government downgrading its travel advice for five Middle Eastern countries from Level 4 "Do Not Travel" to Level 3 "Reconsider Your Need to Travel". The change is particularly significant for Australians travelling to Europe via major Middle Eastern transit hubs, as higher travel warnings can affect travel insurance coverage.

TRIP ADVISOR highlights the top hotels every year - and one-of-a-kind properties like the Taj Lake Palace and the Treehouse Lodge in Peru. Then there is the crane Hotel. Have a look here: www.tripadvisor.com