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Collette vs Luxury Gold
Compare the travel styles, pricing, destinations and popularity of Collette and Luxury Gold.The Low Down
While new to the Australian market in 2017, Collette have actually been operating since 1918. Offering coach touring and small group explorations around the world, you won't find too many Aussies and Kiwis on their trips yet, but clients of ours that haven taken the plunge over the last season have come back with very positive reviews. Collette is very popular in the US and now has offices and support in Australia, Canada and the UK too. Collette market their trips as 4 star accommodation with 5 star service and inclusions - so if that sounds like your cup of tea, then how about this - Collette also includes a roundtrip home to airport chauffeur service for those within a 40km radius of Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth, Canberra, Darwin, Cairns and Hobart airports.
Luxury Gold (a luxury brand brought to you by Insight Vacations) endeavours to elevate travel beyond the ordinary, bringing you the best escorted experience for the best value. Staying in some of the finest hotels, chosen for their prime location, ambience, and level of luxury, and enjoying meals and wine at some of the best restaurants the destination has to offer. Insight have recently expanded their range of luxury vacations to include trips through South America, Africa, and Asia - where you can expect the ultimate in luxury and refinement.With smaller groups (average of 30 but no more than 40 guests - and Asia & South Africa with only 24), relaxed start days, VIP door to door transfers (if you're an Aussie within 50km of an airport) , Luxury Gold offers a seamless stress-free travel experience. If you've travelled with any of its sister brands like AAT Kings, Trafalgar, Insight, Inspiring Journeys or Uniworld further savings are available.
Stats
No. of Trips
187
No. of Departures
3,001
Avg. Trip Length
11 Days
Avg. Price Per Day
$736
Accommodation
4 Star
Budget
Premium
No. of Trips
36
No. of Departures
257
Avg. Trip Length
13 Days
Avg. Price Per Day
$1,226
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium & Luxury
In Their Own Words
We asked the travel companies themselves why you should travel with them
At Collette, we consider everyone who travels with us to be our personal guest. Every moment matters to us because we know it matters to you. This may be because at heart we are a family owned company that has been in business for 100 years. It may be because our team are passionate about sharing their own love of travel and uncovering mysteries.
Choosing Collette comes with benefits that take your guided travel experience to another level. Our inclusive tours provide you more value for your money and more of what makes travel special. Let us show you the world!
Indulge your passions on a luxurious small group journey, offering the perfect blend of guided and independent exploration. Choose from our worldwide collection of immersive luxury journeys.
How do we define “Luxury”? It’s exceptional dining experiences, including Michelin star restaurants and cooking classes. It’s staying in luxury hotels in central or scenic locations. Luxury is feeling like a VIP accessing iconic sites after hours and meeting remarkable people. It’s having the service of a Travelling Concierge accompanying you along the way with incredible commitment to service. When you travel with us, we ensure your experience is elevated, elegant and impeccable.
We put our heart into everything we do and are proud to be leaders in luxury travel. I invite you to relax and enjoy the charm of different cultures as we take care of every detail. Speak with Global Journeys today to start your holiday planning. We look forward to taking you on a journey beyond the ordinary.
Recent Reviews
4.6
We booked this tour because it had all the areas of Umbria and Tuscany that we wanted to visit. Collette is an excellent company, and we thought that every detail was well planned. We definitely got the experience we desired.
Cultural Treasures of Japan 0
Cultural Treasures of Japan
Suzan and Stephen, NY, United States, May 2026
I had a fantastic time on my trip to Japan with Collette. Ethan received my booking after the original booking agent left. He was terrifically helpful, even though it was last minute.... very patient, knowledgeable, and reassuring. My guide on the trip was engaging, lively, and very experienced...taking care of all our needs and enriching the experience read more for everyone. The tour was very well balanced between scheduled activities and free time, and the activities were well chosen and enriching. The land was beautiful, and the hotels were quite luxurious. I booked my own flights, and I ended up with more convenient and efficient flights at considerably lower prices, than those who booked air with Collette. I did use Collette transfers to and from the airports, and they were fine. This was my first tour with Collette and I was delighted by it.
My grandma & I recently completed Collette's Spotlight on Tuscany tour with the pre-extension tour in Rome and had a fantastic experience from start to finish. The itinerary was very well organised and provided a perfect balance of guided activities and free time to explore at our own pace. The accommodation was comfortable and centrally located, making read more day trips throughout Tuscany very convenient. Our tour guide Luca was amazing and always went the extra mile to make the trip even more enjoyable.
Collette Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains tour 0
Alpine Lakes & Scenic Trains
Nida and Dante, NSW, Australia, Apr 2026
We recently had the pleasure of joining Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains Tours, and it was nothing short of exceptional from start to finish. The entire experience felt thoughtfully designed, balancing breathtaking natural beauty with comfort and seamless organization. The alpine lake destinations were truly stunning—crystal-clear waters surrounded by read more dramatic mountain landscapes that looked almost unreal. Each stop was timed perfectly, allowing enough time to explore, take photos, or simply sit and appreciate the peaceful surroundings without feeling rushed.
The scenic train journeys were a highlight in themselves. Traveling through winding valleys, across historic bridges, and past panoramic vistas offered a unique perspective you simply can’t get by road. The trains were clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destinations.
What stood out most was the professionalism and warmth of our tour guide Armando. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the regions we visited. His insights added depth to the experience, sharing stories and local history that made each location even more meaningful.
Logistics were handled flawlessly—transport connections, timing, and best accommodations all ran smoothly, which made the trip feel effortless and relaxing. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into planning these tours. Big thank you to the best driver, Diego and tour director Armando Disanto.
We would highly recommend Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains Tours to anyone looking for a well-curated, memorable travel experience. It’s an ideal blend of nature, comfort, and discovery.
And to Global Journeys, Tracey who assisted us from the beginning until the end of our booking. She made everything hassle free and stress free. Thank you so much Tracey for your help. We would gladly book with them again.
The scenic train journeys were a highlight in themselves. Traveling through winding valleys, across historic bridges, and past panoramic vistas offered a unique perspective you simply can’t get by road. The trains were clean, comfortable, and well-equipped, making the journey just as enjoyable as the destinations.
What stood out most was the professionalism and warmth of our tour guide Armando. He was knowledgeable, engaging, and clearly passionate about the regions we visited. His insights added depth to the experience, sharing stories and local history that made each location even more meaningful.
Logistics were handled flawlessly—transport connections, timing, and best accommodations all ran smoothly, which made the trip feel effortless and relaxing. It’s clear that a lot of care goes into planning these tours. Big thank you to the best driver, Diego and tour director Armando Disanto.
We would highly recommend Alpine Lakes and Scenic Trains Tours to anyone looking for a well-curated, memorable travel experience. It’s an ideal blend of nature, comfort, and discovery.
And to Global Journeys, Tracey who assisted us from the beginning until the end of our booking. She made everything hassle free and stress free. Thank you so much Tracey for your help. We would gladly book with them again.
Wonderful tour of Rome and Amalfi Coast 0
Rome & Amalfi Coast
Ferdi and Virginia, NSW, Australia, Mar 2026
It was great to be back in historic Rome, especially exploring with a group. Our local guides were knowledgeable and the hotel's central location made it easy for us to see the city's major landmarks. The transition to Amalfi Coast was seamless with well organised excursions. We enjoyed the stunning coastal views. We stayed in Vietri sul Mare, a quieter read more base with beautiful scenery, though we would have preferred Salerno for more activity and easier access to restaurants and transport.
The extension to Naples was an eye-opener. We were glad to experience its organised chaos. We were surprised the group wasn't taken to Piazza del Plebiscito, which we discovered on our own.
Our tour manager Giorgio kept everything running smoothly and our driver Luigi ensured we were taken to our tour destinations safe and on time. Our group of 31, all from the States and who mostly knew each other, with just the two of us from Australia, was warm and friendly making the experience even more enjoyable.
Also have to highlight the help from Tracey Standing, who assisted us in reinstating the tour in time after we had cancelled due to uncertainty in our flights via Abu Dhabi. We're glad we made it to this trip.
The extension to Naples was an eye-opener. We were glad to experience its organised chaos. We were surprised the group wasn't taken to Piazza del Plebiscito, which we discovered on our own.
Our tour manager Giorgio kept everything running smoothly and our driver Luigi ensured we were taken to our tour destinations safe and on time. Our group of 31, all from the States and who mostly knew each other, with just the two of us from Australia, was warm and friendly making the experience even more enjoyable.
Also have to highlight the help from Tracey Standing, who assisted us in reinstating the tour in time after we had cancelled due to uncertainty in our flights via Abu Dhabi. We're glad we made it to this trip.
The trip was well organized with a variety of attractions and activities, supplemented by stories and anecdotes shared by the guide. Accommodations were comfortable and stylish. Also kudos to the consideration and flexibility of our guide. Due to weather event, we changed our arrival schedules a few times and ended up arriving one day late. Our guide read more has been very patient and helped us make alternative arrangements.
4.5
Global Journeys was great! Luxury Gold Tour could be improved 0
Majestic Japan
George T, NSW, Australia, Mar 2026
The communication and attention to detail from Tracey at Golobal Journeys was excellent. If you are expecting the usual European Luxury Gold standard from this tour you will be disappointed. Some hotels were good, but the others were average. While a double bed was clearly requested, most hotels provided 2 single beds. Many people were looking forward read more to the Bullet Train Rides, but this was a huge disappintment, as we were booked in Economy Class with 3 across seating.
We had to draw lots to see who got the worst seats. While First Class was available for a small extra charge, Luxury Gold thaught this Economy Class Cabin was the way to "Travel in Style". Our guide stated that she had previously requested that First Class seats be provided, but this request has been ignored. We have previously travelled with Luxury Gold in fast trains in Europe and it was always in the highest available class cabin.
Don't expect the usual 40 seat coach with extra leg room. These coaches were poor quality with cramped seats with very little leg room. They even had jump seats in each row (Not used).
There are 3 nights in Sendai where your normal bags are not available. You are expected to carry an overnight bag on the Train. They could very easily send the bags seperately as done previously, but this is another place where they cut corners. The type of people who book Luxury Gold Tours are not Backpackers. They need the comfort of having all their luggage when it is a 3 night stay.
This tour is a Black Mark for Luxury Gold, and is a great disappointment compared to the wonderful tours we have previously done with Luxury Gold.
We had to draw lots to see who got the worst seats. While First Class was available for a small extra charge, Luxury Gold thaught this Economy Class Cabin was the way to "Travel in Style". Our guide stated that she had previously requested that First Class seats be provided, but this request has been ignored. We have previously travelled with Luxury Gold in fast trains in Europe and it was always in the highest available class cabin.
Don't expect the usual 40 seat coach with extra leg room. These coaches were poor quality with cramped seats with very little leg room. They even had jump seats in each row (Not used).
There are 3 nights in Sendai where your normal bags are not available. You are expected to carry an overnight bag on the Train. They could very easily send the bags seperately as done previously, but this is another place where they cut corners. The type of people who book Luxury Gold Tours are not Backpackers. They need the comfort of having all their luggage when it is a 3 night stay.
This tour is a Black Mark for Luxury Gold, and is a great disappointment compared to the wonderful tours we have previously done with Luxury Gold.
Excellent Trip with efficient Tour Director 1
Ultimate France
George and Chithralekha, NSW, Australia, May 2025
Beautiful little Villages South of France. Much nicer than visiting large cities. A nice full length coach with only 40 seats provided ample space for the 22 participants. The fast train travelling up to 320 kph was a nice inclusion. Excellent hotels included. Krista our Tour Director was excellent.
Spain and Portugal with Luxury Gold 3
Spain & Portugal in Style
Jenny & David, QLD, Australia, Sep 2022
This was a great tour with excellent hotels and tour guides. The coach was comfortable with plenty of room - maximum 40 passengers - but with Luxury Gold the maximum number is 18 and minimum is 10.
Australians need to be aware that we were asked for an extra 400 euros at the end of the trip - 250 euros for our tour manager and 150 euros for the read more driver. Apparently Americans are given vouchers for these gratuities and the Canadians were given an itemised account which included gratuities. However I am not aware of how much they paid for their trip compared to Australians.
Note: The option to prepay Tour Director & Driver gratuities prior to departure is an option. Please ask us to include this in your quote if you wish - or they can be organised after you have paid your trip deposit.
Australians need to be aware that we were asked for an extra 400 euros at the end of the trip - 250 euros for our tour manager and 150 euros for the read more driver. Apparently Americans are given vouchers for these gratuities and the Canadians were given an itemised account which included gratuities. However I am not aware of how much they paid for their trip compared to Australians.
Note: The option to prepay Tour Director & Driver gratuities prior to departure is an option. Please ask us to include this in your quote if you wish - or they can be organised after you have paid your trip deposit.
We enjoyed all the highlights and had personal experiences with the sites. The food was great. Really enjoyed the villages we visited.
Great itinerary for a trip to Egypt, hits the main sites. Thrilled with the addition of Esna’s temple, which is being cleaned/restored and has amazing colors! Great pace with a 7-day cruise, allowing a break mid-day for a late lunch on the River Tosca. I never felt rushed to get through a site/temple. Again, our Egyptologist guide, Wael, was a wealth read more of information - we couldn’t have asked for a better guide!
Our itinerary was just busy enough with enough time to explore on your own if you wanted to or rest if you wanted to. I especially liked exploring Belfast and Giants Causeway, Dublin, Killarney, Ring of Kerry, Galway, and Ashford Castle. I loved hearing about the rich and sometimes complicated history of the areas.
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