Inspire me Inspire me

Steve Johnson

Worldwide Travel Expert

Steve has a wealth of experience at leading tour operators, and has travelled extensively worldwide, with a particular passion for the Far East and Australasia. He loves to share his in-depth knowledge of his favourite places, and help other people fall in love with them too, from the charms of Indonesia to the spectacular scenery of New Zealand.

For just a taster of Steve’s innumerable adventures across the world, he has slept in a swag under the stars in Australia’s outback, and kayaked on Milford Sound in New Zealand, surrounded by dolphins. In the Far East, which he loves for its heady combination of city, adventure and beach (as well as its fantastic food), his highlights range from bathing an elephant in the rainforest to relaxing on a white sand beach with views of forest-clad limestone peaks rising out of the sea, and staying in a luxury floating tent on a beautiful lake, watching monkeys swinging through the trees.

From exhilarating self-drive adventures that will take you off the beaten track and discovering hidden gems, to unforgettable face-to-face wildlife encounters in the heart of the wilderness, Steve will utilise all his knowledge and expertise to ensure you have a holiday to remember.

My Top Tips

Explore a remote and pristine part of Fox Glacier, on the South Island of New Zealand, by flying over it in a helicopter before landing atop the glacier for a guided hike through ice caves, arches and tunnels.

Savour the historic sights of the famous River Kwai on a private guided tour from Bangkok, and discover jungle-covered hills, stunning gorges and beautiful river views – and take a ride on the iconic train.

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Malaysia may not seem an obvious self-drive destination – but it is fantastic. Road signs are in English, driving is on the left and roads are well-maintained. See sleek Kuala Lumpur, historic Malacca, the lush Cameron Highlands and Langkawi’s sweeping beaches.

Stay in luxury in the heart of the rainforest in Malaysia

I love the Datai Langkawi in Malaysia. Nestled in an ancient tropical rainforest and facing a beautiful white-sand beach, it offers wonderful villas, excellent facilities and stunning views. Enjoy a true escape into nature, without stinting on luxury – far from it. In between treks into the rainforest, relax on the beach and by your pool, with a cocktail served by your 24-hour butler.

Drive along the Great Ocean Road in Australia

On this fabulous holiday, drive along Australia’s iconic Great Ocean Road, from Melbourne to Adelaide. Soak up the spectacular coastal scenery at every turn, including the famous Twelve Apostles and the charming coastal towns of Lorne and Port Fairy. Visit the wineries of the Barossa Valley and see kangaroos and more wildlife on Kangaroo Island, to top off a memorable self-drive trip.

Discover the best of Vietnam

Explore the highlights of Vietnam on this memorable and diverse luxury holiday. See the beautiful capital of Hanoi, enjoy a stylish cruise on Halong Bay, visit historic Hoi An, go to Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon) and explore the nearby Mekong Delta in a traditional sampan boat, before relaxing on the unspoilt island of Phu Quoc. For an added bonus, visit Angkor Wat in the Cambodian countryside.

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Enjoy a unique elephant experience in Thailand

An experience I recommend to everyone who visits Thailand is a safari adventure at Elephant Hills, in Khao Sok National Park. While staying in a luxurious safari-style tent in the wilderness and a stylish floating tent on Cheow Lan Lake, help to feed and bathe elephants at the elephant sanctuary, and head out on the water in a canoe, keeping an eye out for monkeys.