My Just You Story: Chris

My Just You Story: Chris

DON'T STOP ME NOW

We caught up with Chris Baines from Birmingham, who has so far enjoyed four tours with Just You. He's always yearned to travel and while he lives alone, he doesn’t let that stop him exploring the world and it certainly seems like the adventures just keep getting better..

When I discovered Just You, it felt like I had found the perfect travel companion. No organising, no stress, just pure adventure waiting to unfold. The best part for me was meeting fellow explorers along the way, all of us ready to see what's around the corner together.

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Time waits for no one, and those dream destinations aren't going to tick themselves off! That's what makes travel so exhilarating because every moment counts.

I’ve experienced four incredible adventures so far. They’ve all been classic tours because beach lounging just isn't my preferred way to travel. Some days are very full on, but that's where the magic happens. Those hectic days aren’t exhausting, they're electrifying. That's exactly why Australian Highlights called out to me.

After a 23-day whirlwind adventure through Australia, I could write volumes, but here are my three most breathtaking moments that still give me goosebumps.

Heights and Sights in Sydney

Sydney absolutely dazzled us all. The Harbour Bridge Climb? Heart-pounding doesn't even cover it. Clipping onto those cables with fellow adventurers, our adrenaline racing, knowing we're about to experience something truly extraordinary.

There's an optional boat ride under the bridge and past the Opera House, but nothing – absolutely nothing – compares to those views from the summit. Climbing ladder after ladder, reaching those upper arches, and then... wow. Three-hundred-and-sixty degrees of pure Sydney magic spreading out beneath us. We all agreed that this is what travel dreams are made of.

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The great, Great Barrier Reef

The Great Barrier Reef took our breath away, though perhaps not just for the reasons we expected. Yes, it's iconic, spectacular, unmissable but it's also a powerful wake-up call. Those greyer reef sections remind us what's at stake on our beautiful planet.

Travel opens our eyes and hearts in ways nothing else can. These experiences connect us to the world. Just You itineraries don't just show us the glossy postcard version; they reveal authentic stories, real challenges, genuine culture.

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Scratching beneath the surface, hearing people's real stories – that's travelling properly. Nothing sugar-coated, nothing manufactured. Just You transforms us from tourists into true travellers, and it changes everything.

Unbelievable Uluru

Uluru defies description – it's pure spiritual magic and easily our biggest wow moment. Sunrise, sunset, we visited at both, and honestly, we understand completely why the Aborigines hold this place so sacred. Words simply can't capture it. You have to stand there, feel it, experience it yourself.

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These are a few of my...

Favourite Just You things! The people are the real treasure. Tours of 20 to 30 adventurers, and every single time I come home feeling like I’ve gained family.

It's the most wonderful way to explore, and sometimes we even cross paths with familiar faces from previous trips! Jackie and Linda, for instance – we've now shared Australia and South Africa together.

The Holiday Directors and Local Guides are absolutely exceptional. Every single one of them brings passion, knowledge, and warmth that elevates each adventure.

Solo tour operators might look pricier at first glance, but it’s better to consider value instead of cost. We're talking unforgettable experiences, life-changing moments, genuine connections. That's priceless, and that's what Just You has delivered every single time for me in Thailand, Australia, South Africa and India.

So what's next...

Having lived in the US for years, Canada's calling my name now; perhaps the Rocky Mountaineer to start? I’m not sure. Sri Lanka and Vietnam are definitely on the horizon, and I've just returned from Spirit of India which was phenomenal.

Wherever the next adventure takes me, my mission stays the same: explore as much as possible while I can. We used to hesitate, used to say “no” but not anymore. Now it's all about saying “yes” and diving in.

Chris' Travel Tips

My top tip for any Just You adventure? Take a breath and soak it all in. Don't get caught up fighting through crowds for the perfect photo angle because you might miss the magic unfolding right before your eyes.

Philip Island penguins taught us this lesson beautifully. While everyone jostled for prime viewing spots, our Holiday Director spotted a quieter side gallery. Perfect views and we could simply sit back and watch the enchanting penguin parade in peace. Sometimes the best moments come from letting go and being present together.

LET US TAKE YOU THERE...

  1. Australian Highlights

    Iconic cities, famous landmarks and natural wonders are yours to discover on an incredible journey from Sydney to Melbourne.

    • Return flights
    • 19 nights in 3 & 4-star hotels, 3 nights in flight
    • 23 meals: 19 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners including welcome drink

    23 days from
    £9,399
    was £9,799