Showcasing some of Western Australia’s best travel experiences ahead of the WTTC Global Summit in Perth
It was our privilege – and our pleasure – to partner with Virtuoso Travel and Tourism Western Australia to host a group of esteemed global travel leaders on a Pre-WTTC Global Summit Adventure that showcased some of Western Australia’s bucket-list travel highlights, delivered with personalised and privileged local insights.
Travelling through Western Australia’s Margaret River region and Ningaloo Coast, the Southern Crossings itinerary was designed to dovetail with the World Travel and Tourism Council Global Summit theme of ‘Ancient Land: New Perspectives’.
From Traditional Custodians to tradition-breaking winemakers, the itinerary included introductions to local experts who generously shared their stories and their passions to provide these distinguished visitors with personalised connections to local community and Australia’s captivating First Nations’ culture; delicious Western Australian produce and its provenance, incredible wildlife and breathtaking ancient landscapes.
“It was a real privilege to have the opportunity to introduce some of the most influential and internationally-respected global travel experts to our beautiful backyard, in Southern Crossings style” said Southern Crossings Director Stuart Rigg who also travelled with the group.
Starting out at Smiths Beach Resort in the Margaret River, the group enjoyed private touring that introduced them to the region’s ancient Indigenous culture, fabulous fine wines, delicious local produce and spectacular coastal scenery with personalised introductions to talented and passionate locals, behind-the-scenes and off-the-beaten track experiences.
A scenic seaplane flight transported the group from the Margaret River back to Perth for their onward flight to the Ningaloo Coast where, staying at Sal Salis safari-style wilderness camp, they had the opportunity to disconnect from the distractions of the modern world and reconnect with nature, culture and their travelling companions.
Highlights of the trip included a private underground digeridoo performance in the Margaret River and underwater adventures swimming with whalesharks on the Ningaloo Reef; a guided coastal hike on the Cape to Cape track and a scenic seaplane flight over the Western Australian coastline; privileged behind-the-scenes wine tastings, a welcome dinner presented by Western Australian culinary icon, Kate Lamont and exclusive sunset drinks served on the beach at Sal Salis.
“We loved experiencing a hand-tailored itinerary for our group, backed up with the best care and service from the Southern Crossings team, and best of all, Southern Crossing’s special connections to the best guides and experiences across Western Australia, giving us amazing insights and human connections to the destinations” said David Kolner, Executive Vice President – Virtuoso Travel.
“It was my honour to be part of the incredible pre-WTTC Virtuoso trip curated by Southern Crossings. The magic of the Margaret River from Josh “Koomal” Whiteland sharing his heritage and knowledge from his ancestors at the Ngili Cave to tasting delicious local wines at Window Estates, Cullen and Vasse Felix. The opportunity to enjoy a float plane was the perfect way to shift gears en route to the Ningaloo Reef. Sal Salis is truly a magical place. The team is exceptional, looking after every need. The setting is stunning at sunrise, sunset, and under the breathtaking blanket of stars. It is a place to slow down, rest, and recharge as well as experience the exhilarating swimming with the whale sharks. I cannot wait to return!” says Jennifer Wilson-Buttigieg, Head of Travel Policy – Chase Travel.
Andrea Grisdale, Founder & CEO – IC Bellagio, added “With incredible food, wines, stunning walks and nature, not to mention tradition that I never knew existed; this beautiful introduction to WA totally opened my eyes and mind to the beauty and diversity of the region. I was so impressed by WA and all that Southern Crossings introduced me too I am already planning to return to enjoy a personal vacation there in January 2026”
The participants in this exclusive trip then attended the World Travel and Tourism Global Summit in Perth | Boorloo this week – with several already planning a return journey to Australia.
Header Image: Pre-WTTC Global Summit Adventure lunch at Vasse Felix in Western Australia’s Margaret River region
This article also appeared in Latte Luxury Australian Travel Trade E-news.
