ABOUT US
Your Partner in Unforgettable Escapes
Island Holidays is a subsidiary brand of The Travelcation Group, an Australian collective of brands committed to curating unparalleled travel experiences. Our passion lies in creating bespoke journeys that transport our clients to some of the most breathtaking island destinations in the world, including the South Pacific, Maldives, and islands in Australia and Asia.
We get it – travel is deeply personal. That’s why our Travelcation Experts take the time to design journeys that are tailored just for you.
Our approach is simple yet sophisticated. With nearly 25 years of experience in the travel industry, we’ve mastered the balance between innovation and tradition. We continually refine our systems and processes, ensuring that our service is not just exceptional but also refreshingly modern. From luxury resorts and private tours to immersive cultural experiences and exclusive gourmet adventures, we offer a curated selection of travel options that cater to the discerning traveller.
Let Island Holidays take you on a journey that goes beyond the ordinary. Because with us, it’s not just about where you go, it’s about how it feels when you get there.
OUR TEAM
At The Travelcation Group, every team member contributes their unique experiences, passions, and expertise to our mission of delivering exceptional, tailor-made travel experiences. We’re travellers at heart, designing journeys for those who share our passion.
Founder & CEO
Jake Chiem
Jake is a highly accomplished and experienced figure in the travel industry, currently serving as the founder and CEO of The Travelcation Group. Over the last few years, under his leadership and with the support of a team of very experienced professionals, the company has expanded into new regions and developed a reputation for providing bespoke, personalised travel booking experiences.
With a career spanning two decades, Jake has held various roles in the industry, including retail, corporate travel, wholesale, and tour operation. He has managed multiple successful travel agencies and received numerous awards, including Best Travel Advisor, Best Travel Manager of the Year, and Best National Sales Manager. He was even recognized by Travel Weekly magazine as the sixth most successful travel agent of the year.
Throughout his career, Jake has travelled extensively and experienced a diverse range of accommodations and activities, from staying in a Ger tent in Mongolia to relaxing in 5-star overwater bungalows in Tahiti. He has flown in all travel classes, cruised the Mediterranean, learned Tai Chi at the Shaolin Temple in China, and gone on safari in Africa. Some of his favourite travel experiences include seeing Broadway shows in New York, sailing down the Nile in Egypt, participating in a water festival in Bangkok, cycling through Paris, enjoying delicious seafood in Nha Trang, and scuba diving in the pristine waters of Fiji.
Jake’s ultimate goal is to help his clients realise their travel dreams. With his extensive experience in both the domestic and international markets, he is committed to making the trip-planning process as easy and stress-free as possible for every traveller who picks up the phone to call The Travelcation Group.
Co-founder
Damon Low
Damon is the co-founder of The Travelcation Group and is responsible for creating the company’s distinctive branding and visual identity. With over 20 years of experience in marketing, he is passionate about his work and enjoys every aspect of it.
Damon’s first overseas trip was to Japan, where he fell in love with the country and its culture. He studied Japanese in school, and his teacher took him to Tokyo, which opened his eyes to a whole new world beyond Sydney, Australia. This trip sparked his passion for travel, and he has since visited numerous destinations worldwide.
Damon has climbed the stairs of Notre Dame in Paris, explored the Valley of the Kings in Egypt, made rice paper in Vietnam, hiked the Great Wall of China, wandered the streets of Budapest, savoured pizza in Italy, visited the archaeological ruins of Tulum in Mexico, and tried his luck in Las Vegas.
From his first trip to Japan, Damon never imagined that his travel experiences would one day become part of his job. As a co-founder of The Travelcation Group, he can now share his passion for travel with others and help them plan their own dream trips.
General Manager | Product Manager
Karen Murray
Karen is a highly experienced travel professional with 27 years of Australian travel industry experience, currently serving as General Manager of the Travelcation Group and owner of Magenta Travel.
She has established herself as an expert at itinerary planning, has developed a reputation for crafting well-planned and unforgettable travel experiences as well as maintaining her long term client relationships.
Since beginning her career in the travel industry in 1996, Karen has worked with a major domestic wholesaler, managed teams in retail and wholesale call travel centres, worked on customer helplines, managed the Queensland Travel Centre in Adelaide, was an assistant manager at Phil Hoffman Travel, and has been, since 2007, a successful self-employed work-from-home travel professional. In 2022, Karen has also extended her skillset to business mentoring, working for the ASE Group with participants of the Self Employment Assistance Program. Karen mentored adults entering self-employment for the first time and helped them develop business plans and client strategies.
Karen’s passion for travel stems from her childhood memories of family holidays to the Whitsundays, New Zealand, North Stradbroke Island and Caloundra. Her time spent as an exchange student in French Canada at the young age of 17 was a life-changing experience that instilled in her the belief that travel can greatly enhance one’s mindset and change their life. This experience led Karen to abandon her political university degree and pursue a career in the travel industry.
Karen’s expertise in itinerary planning includes fully organised independent self-drive trips, cruising, iconic long-distance train journeys, and special luxury getaways. Karen’s love and considerable product knowledge of her home country is evident in her work. She is always eager to help her clients discover the beauty of Australia and New Zealand and create unforgettable memories.
Travelcation Expert
Jasmine Baker
Jasmine Baker brings a rich and varied 21 years of experience in the travel and hospitality industry. Her journey in travel began with a passion for exploring new places and has grown into a fulfilling career. Jasmine finds her greatest joy in planning trips, not just for herself but for others, constantly learning about new destinations and deepening her knowledge of places she already loves.
Over the years, Jasmine has represented some of North Queensland’s most esteemed resorts, including Bedarra Island Resort, The Elandra, Castaways Resort & Spa, and more, accumulating a decade of specialised experience in this area. Her expertise in luxury resort accommodations and her in-depth knowledge of these prime destinations make her an invaluable asset to the team.
Jasmine’s love for travel isn’t just confined to her job. Her top five favourite destinations are as diverse as they are beautiful: Singapore; Maldives, Dharamsala, India; Shikoku, Japan; Nusa Lembongan, Bali; and Gimmelwald, Switzerland. However, it’s the Swiss Alps that hold a special place in her heart. The allure of the majestic mountains, enchanting icy waterfalls, and the idyllic image of snow-capped vistas, complemented by the cozy comfort of cheese, chocolate, and wine by the fireplace, make it her number one choice.
Her most remarkable travel experiences are as varied as her interests. They range from adventurous white water rafting down the White Nile in Uganda and challenging motorbike rides in Nepal, to more serene moments like enjoying cheese and beer atop the Swiss Alps and wildlife spotting in British Columbia. But as a self-proclaimed foodie, Jasmine’s ultimate travel highlight was a simple yet unforgettable dining experience in Brussels, featuring a pot of garlic mussels, crusty bread, a carafe of crisp white wine, a selection of 100 local Belgian beers, and a dessert of waffles topped with Belgian chocolate, fresh strawberries, and whipped cream.
Jasmine’s dedication and passion for travel were recognised when she was awarded the Tourism Tropical North Queensland Young Achiever of the Year in 2018. Her wealth of experience, love for food and adventure, and commitment to excellence make Jasmine Baker an exemplary figure in the world of travel and tourism.
Travelcation Expert
Nicholas Kennedy
Product Manager
Tahnee Inverno
Product Manager for The Pacific, Bali and Maldives
Tahnee is a highly skilled and experienced professional travel advisor and product manager based in Perth, Western Australia, with over 12 years of experience in the travel industry. Since 2009, she has dedicated her career to providing exceptional travel experiences to her clients. As a product manager, she ensures that the company has the best hotels, tours, and activities to offer to its customers.
Tahnee’s passion for travel is rooted in her love for different cultures, lifestyles, and unique experiences. Her extensive travels have taken her to numerous destinations around the world, including Europe, Canada, South East Asia, Indonesia, New Zealand, UAE, Hong Kong, and Macau. She has stayed in a wide range of accommodations, from beach bungalows to luxury private villas, Shangri las and Ritz Carltons, chateaus, and tree houses, which has given her a broad understanding of different travel needs and preferences.
Tahnee has had a diverse career in the travel industry, ranging from managing an award-winning retail travel store for five years to running her own mobile travel agency. She has also worked for online agencies in ticketing, corporate travel, and customer support. Tahnee’s vast experience has equipped her with the skills to understand and meet the needs of her clients while offering a seamless and enjoyable travel experience.
As a product manager, Tahnee ensures that all the products the company offers are safe and accredited, giving customers peace of mind when booking with an agent. In today’s world, travel has undergone significant changes, and Tahnee recognises the importance of providing a seamless and secure experience to her clients.
Travelcation Expert
Connie Adams
Connie’s journey in the travel industry is nothing short of inspiring. With a career spanning over 22 years, her passion for travel has only deepened, driven by a genuine love for exploring new destinations and experiencing diverse cultures. This love is not just personal; it’s what motivates her every day to help others fulfil their dream vacations. Starting her adventure in the heart of Sydney CBD at a Flight Centre retail shop, Connie quickly made her mark. Her expertise and passion took her to Brisbane CBD, where she continued to shine. Her career further evolved with roles at Harvey World Travel (now Helloworld) and a fulfilling stint working from home with TravelManagers. These experiences have not only broadened her horizons but have also allowed her to share her wealth of knowledge with travellers eager to explore the world.
Connie’s travel favourites are as diverse as her career. Italy tops her list, holding a special place in her heart with its mouth-watering food, rich history, and personal family ties in Sicily. Spain follows closely, with its irresistible blend of vibrant dance, historical richness, and culinary delights. New York City, with its electrifying energy, iconic shopping spots, and cinematic landscapes, also captivates her. For relaxation, Fiji’s serene islands offer the perfect retreat, while Canada’s breathtaking scenery and wildlife provide a stunning backdrop for adventure.
One of Connie’s most cherished travel experiences was a safari in Kenya, awarded for her outstanding sales performance. This adventure, including stays at the now-closed Treetops Lodge and various Mara properties, offered an unparalleled glimpse into the heart of Kenya’s wildlife, leaving lasting memories. Throughout her career, Connie’s excellence has been recognised through numerous awards, including a plaque for 10 years in partnership with TravelManagers, and accolades for her sales achievements with Etihad Airways and a top sales Wildlife Safari.
At the core of Connie’s expertise is crafting bespoke itineraries for Italy, focusing on luxury hotels and villas that promise an unparalleled travel experience. But Connie is more than just a travel expert; she’s a fun, bubbly person with a zest for life, always eager to meet new people, explore new places, and indulge in different cuisines. Her passion, expertise, and warm personality make her an invaluable asset to any traveller looking to create unforgettable memories.
Groups & Ski Expert
Hamish Tims
Hamish has spent about six years immersed in the travel industry, splitting his time between Japan and Australia. His passion for travel is deeply rooted in his love for exploring new places, learning about diverse cultures, and meeting fascinating individuals from all walks of life. Hamish thrives on the continuous learning opportunities that travel presents, allowing him to expand his horizons every day. He delights in sharing his extensive travel experiences and insights, helping others plan memorable trips while using his insider knowledge to steer them clear of common pitfalls.
Hamish’s journey in the travel industry began in January 2017 when he moved to Japan. He spent almost a year living and studying in Tokyo, exploring the main island extensively. In November 2017, he relocated to Hokkaido’s ski resort area of Niseko, where he worked in hotels and travelled extensively by car to acquaint himself with the region’s various cities and landmarks. His passion for snowboarding and skiing drove him to learn about ski resorts worldwide, enabling him to curate exceptional ski trips for Australian families. After returning to Australia in March 2020, just before the international borders closed, Hamish travelled domestically before resuming his career in travel in December 2021. He continues to broaden his knowledge to encompass a wider range of destinations, both within Australia and globally, to assist clients in planning and booking remarkable trips.
Among Hamish’s top five favourite destinations are Niseko in Japan, Wanaka in New Zealand, Banff in Canada, Edinburgh in Scotland, and Zakynthos Island in Greece. However, Niseko holds a special place in his heart. In winter, it’s a snowy paradise boasting some of the world’s best snow quality and quantity. The area offers a wealth of activities, both in Niseko and in nearby locations accessible by car or chartered bus. Summer transforms Niseko into a haven for golf, mountain biking, fly fishing, hiking, cycling, and rafting. Hamish cherished his year-round living experience in Niseko and rekindled his love for the town and its friendly residents during a recent visit in February 2024.
One of Hamish’s most amazing travel experiences was driving the Icefields Parkway from Banff to Jasper. The journey, marked by stops at glacial lakes and rivers, was nothing short of remarkable, with breathtaking wildlife sightings along the way. The scenic start and end destinations were equally impressive. A particularly memorable moment was when he filled a water bottle with glacial water, which he kept at home for years, believing it brought him good luck. This experience left a lasting impression, reinforcing his love for the Canadian Rockies.
Email:[email protected]
Tour Guide
Renee Tilbrook
Renee is a passionate and experienced travel professional with a strong affinity for exploration and creating memorable experiences for her clients. Originally hailing from the picturesque Southern hills of Adelaide, near the renowned McLaren Vale wine region, Renee possesses a deep appreciation for the culinary arts and all things related to food and wine. While gastronomic delights have always been a motivating factor in her travels, it is the rich historical landmarks, captivating myths, and immersive cultural encounters that truly captivate her.
With a desire to turn her love for travel into a profession, Renee embarked on a career as a travel agent. Over time, she diversified her expertise within the industry, venturing into roles such as a tour guide, hotel guest services, and local host. While her travels have taken her to numerous destinations worldwide, it is the opportunity to bring people together and share the magic of Australia that brings her the greatest joy.
While Renee boasts extensive knowledge of most Australian cities, she remains perpetually curious, constantly seeking out new local cafes, restaurants, and experiences to indulge in. She believes that there is always more to learn and discover, and she eagerly looks forward to sharing her wealth of local knowledge while embracing the thrill of the unknown with her clients.
With Renee as your guide, you can trust that her passion for travel, dedication to providing exceptional service, and commitment to sharing the wonders of Australia will create an unforgettable and enriching journey for all those who embark on it.
Travelcation Expert
Treacy Scott
Treacy is a seasoned travel expert with extensive knowledge of New Zealand and worldwide destinations. Her career in the travel industry started during her high school days, where she pursued a course in Travel & Tourism. She kickstarted her career in an Information Centre, where she booked activities, accommodations, and transportation for travellers visiting New Zealand. Through work trips, she had the privilege of exploring the South Island and indulging in exciting activities like Sky Dives, Bungy Jumps, Canyon Swings, Milford & Doubtful Sound Cruises, Glacier Ice Cave Walks, and Helicopter Snow Landings, among others.
Treacy’s specialty is in crafting tailor-made New Zealand itineraries that showcase the country’s most popular tourist attractions and hidden gems. She has lived in Perth, Western Australia, for the last 9 years, where she has broadened her expertise to encompass worldwide travel. Treacy has explored numerous destinations across Australia, from the stunning coastlines to the Dunsborough and Margaret River Wineries. Additionally, she has had the opportunity to travel overseas, with visits to the United Kingdom, Paris, Germany, Switzerland, Greece, the Greek Islands, Dubai, Rarotonga, and Fiji.
Treacy takes pleasure in creating personalized travel experiences that her clients will cherish for years to come. She works meticulously to ensure that every aspect of a holiday is tailored to meet her client’s needs, making each journey an enjoyable and memorable experience.
Travelcation Expert
Elena Vartazarian
Elena believes that travel is more than just a checklist of places to visit. To her, it’s about fully immersing oneself in a destination and experiencing it with all senses. This means indulging in local cultures, languages, food, and interacting with locals to gain a deeper understanding of a place.
She developed a passion for travel early on, having traveled extensively with her family and on a student budget. Later on, she enjoyed luxurious holidays with her husband, and now shares the joy of travel with her two sons. Elena was born in Iran and raised in Australia, and has explored various countries in Southeast Asia, the South Pacific, Europe, USA, Canada, and recently, Armenia and the surrounding regions.
Elena has had many remarkable travel experiences, including cheering on the Socceroos at the 2018 World Cup in Sochi, walking the streets of Yerevan with Armenians during the Velvet Revolution, and observing turtles nesting in Borneo. She has traveled through various modes of transportation, including cycling, buses, trains, cruises, and driving, which enables her to recommend the best options for any traveler.
Elena has worked in the travel industry for more than 15 years, specialising in leisure and corporate travel. She currently focuses on family holidays with kids and has learned that different life stages require different travel styles. Whether it’s domestic or international travel, Asia or Europe, or organised tours or self-drive holidays, Elena can help plan the perfect trip. She invites travellers to share their travel dreams and allows her to create the best imaginable trip for them.
Email:[email protected]
Travelcation Expert
Sascha McRae
Sascha discovered a deep passion for exploration at an early age. From embarking on solo trips as a curious 8-year-old to relocating to Galway, Ireland, in search of thrilling adventures at 17, it was evident that Sascha’s destiny was intertwined with the world of travel.
Having grown up in Canada, Sascha’s youthful years were filled with enchantment while living in the captivating city of Galway. Spending a total of five years there, the rugged landscapes of the west coast and the cozy thatched cottages adorned with warm peat fires along the Connemara Coast left an indelible mark on Sascha’s heart.
Sascha also found a deep connection with Spain, having enjoyed the sun-drenched charm of Marbella and explored the vibrant regions surrounding it. A stint in the northern Basque country further fueled Sascha’s passion for the diverse cultures and traditions of Spain.
With close family residing in a Moroccan village for the past 25 years, Sascha has had the privilege of using it as a base for countless Moroccan adventures. Witnessing the evolution and growth of local communities over the years has been a truly awe-inspiring experience.
Having explored North America, Europe, North Africa, New Zealand, the South Pacific, Southeast Asia, and various destinations within Australia, Sascha’s extensive travels have broadened their understanding of diverse cultures and customs.
For the past 15 years, Sascha has found immense joy and fulfillment as a travel agent. Their mission is to assist individuals in discovering the culinary delights, musical rhythms, and unique customs of the world, whether it be in their own backyard or in far-flung destinations. With a keen eye for detail and a commitment to providing seamless and stress-free experiences, Sascha is dedicated to transforming clients’ dreams into unforgettable realities.
With Sascha as your trusted travel professional, you can expect personalised itineraries that capture the essence of your desired adventure, turning it into a seamless and stress-free dream waiting to come true.
Travelcation Expert
Raffaella Gatto
Raffaella is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable travel professional who thrives on sharing her passion for exploration with her clients. From a young age, she developed a deep appreciation for the wonders of the world and a curiosity to discover new cultures and experiences.
Growing up in a multicultural environment, Raffaella was exposed to diverse traditions and perspectives, which sparked her desire to embark on her own global adventures. Her love for the industry led her to pursue a career in travel, where she could turn her personal passion into a profession.
With years of experience in the field, Raffaella has cultivated a wealth of knowledge about various destinations around the globe. From popular tourist hotspots to hidden gems off the beaten path, she is well-versed in curating unique and memorable travel experiences tailored to her client’s preferences.
Raffaella takes great pride in her role as a travel consultant, as it allows her to play a pivotal part in creating lifelong memories for her clients. She understands the importance of personalized attention and strives to exceed expectations by crafting meticulously planned itineraries that cater to every detail and desire.
Whether it’s a relaxing beach getaway, an adventurous hiking expedition, or an immersive cultural tour, Raffaella’s expertise and dedication ensure that each trip is carefully designed to meet and surpass her clients’ expectations. Her goal is to provide exceptional service, ensuring that every aspect of the journey is seamless and memorable.
With Raffaella as your trusted travel consultant, you can expect a seamless and unforgettable travel experience. Her passion, knowledge, and commitment to excellence will guide you towards creating cherished memories that will last a lifetime.
Product Department
Mark Lester Dungo
Mark has been in the travel industry for six years, combining his passion for exploration with a commitment to providing outstanding service. He loves helping people create unforgettable experiences and discover new destinations.
Throughout his career, Mark has developed a strong expertise in all aspects of flight reservations. He’s also well-versed in organising comprehensive travel arrangements, including hotels, cruises, rental cars, and tours, catering to both retail and group clients.
Mark’s hard work and dedication have been recognised with an award as part of the best Sales Team, highlighting his ability to consistently meet and exceed client expectations while contributing to the success of his colleagues.
When it comes to travel, Mark’s top destinations include Bali, Phuket, Boracay, Bangkok, and Sydney. Bali is his favourite, thanks to its stunning natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality. Bangkok holds a special place in his heart as well, offering an amazing travel experience with its bustling markets, stunning temples, and rich cultural heritage, making every visit an adventure.
Beyond work, Mark is passionate about LGBT rights and is committed to promoting inclusivity and equality in everything he does. He loves exploring diverse cultures and believes travel is a powerful way to connect with people and make a positive impact.
Travelcation Expert
Julie Revett
Julie is a professional travel planner who is dedicated to finding the best holiday deals and making the process of planning a vacation stress-free and fun. With 20 years of travel experience, Julie has explored a wide range of domestic and international destinations including Australia, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, China, Hong Kong, Jamaica, Mauritius, Fiji, New Zealand, Paris, England, Scotland, USA, and Canada. She has also sailed on several cruises.
Julie’s clients trust her to listen to their needs and provide tailored recommendations based on her first-hand knowledge of various destinations. Her priority is to ensure her clients are satisfied with their travel experiences. Many of her clients come from referrals from friends, colleagues, or family who have enjoyed their holiday planning experience with Julie.
Julie is passionate about travel and is committed to providing the highest level of personal service, reliability, and enthusiasm to her clients. When it comes to booking the perfect holiday, Julie is the go-to professional to ensure that you get the most out of your travel experience.