Emma had often thought that to travel independently, without her family, would be a fun thing to do as a young adult.
When Emma and her mum, Nina, spotted a DO Travel poster, they reached out for information. Emma decided on a six-night holiday to Moreton Island and Sydney, which included exploring Sydney and a three-night cruise to Moreton Island.
“From the outset, Mel East, DO Travel’s operations team leader, was amazing and made organising the trip very easy,” Nina said. “They really took the time to understand their customers before they departed. The support staff were carefully matched to each customer.”
Emma shared her excitement with her friend Claire from Drouin, who also decided to join. It was Claire’s first travel experience without her family too. Emma and Claire felt a mix of excitement and nerves when they met the DO Travel staff and their fellow travellers at the airport.
They quickly felt at ease with the three support staff members accompanying the group.
The flight to Sydney was enjoyable, followed by two busy days of sightseeing including visits to Sealife Aquarium, Madame Tussauds and Sydney Eye Tower.
There was great excitement as they boarded the cruise ship and settled into their cabins.
For most, including Emma, it was their first time on a cruise. With so many activities on board, choosing what to do was quite a challenge.
Emma particularly enjoyed listening to ABBA violinists, attending the rock show and 80s-themed events, and admiring the views of the Harbour Bridge and Sydney Opera House from the water.
The highlight for everyone was dressing up for the elegant and 80s-themed nights, as well as participating in karaoke.
Families followed the trip’s fun through the DO Travel Facebook page and the group received follow-up photos on USB sticks to share with loved ones back home.
“When Emma returned, she talked non-stop for four hours, she was so excited,” Nina laughed.
She was pleased to see Emma had become more independent in her routines and taking care of her own things, which were some of the goals Emma had set for herself on this trip.
The trip’s staff noted, “Emma’s confidence grew significantly from day one to the last. She made new connections with fellow travellers, engaged well with the group, and formed lovely friendships with some of the other ladies.”
Nina, a support coordinator for ‘My Supports’ in East Gippsland, has since recommended DO Travel to her colleagues and clients, many of whom have enjoyed trips or are planning them.
“They are a professional organisation that excels in supporting people with disabilities to access travel and supported respite experiences. I highly recommend them.” she said.
