Discover the World with CityCanvas Travel

Your journey begins with a personalized experience crafted by travel experts who understand your desires.

Our Story

Founders of CityCanvas Travel

CityCanvas Travel was born in 2018 from a shared passion for exploration and the belief that travel should be as unique as the individuals embarking on the journey. Founders Claire Donovan and Michael Chen, both seasoned travelers with over 40 combined years of experience, had become disillusioned with the one-size-fits-all approach of traditional travel agencies.

Beginning as a modest operation in Melbourne's vibrant laneway district, Claire and Michael set out to revolutionize the travel planning experience. Their vision was to create deeply personalized itineraries that captured not just the iconic destinations, but the authentic cultural experiences that transform a vacation into a life-changing journey.

From those humble beginnings with just three dedicated employees, CityCanvas Travel has grown into one of Australia's most respected boutique travel agencies. In 2022, we expanded to our current Collins Street location, and our team has grown to include specialists in various global regions, each bringing intimate knowledge of their destinations.

Throughout our evolution, our founding principle has remained unchanged: we believe that the most memorable journeys arise from a deep understanding of each traveler's unique interests, preferences, and dreams. Today, we continue to craft bespoke experiences that go beyond the guidebook, connecting our clients with the authentic heart of every destination.

Our Mission

At CityCanvas Travel, we believe that traveling is more than just visiting places—it's about creating unforgettable experiences that transform and enrich your life. Our mission is to craft personalized journeys that reflect your unique interests, preferences, and dreams, allowing you to explore the world authentically and meaningfully.

We pride ourselves on our deep knowledge of both domestic Australian destinations and international hotspots, enabling us to offer insider tips and hidden gems that go beyond typical tourist routes. Our team of experienced travel consultants works tirelessly to ensure every aspect of your trip is seamlessly arranged, from accommodations that match your style to local experiences that connect you with the heart of your destination.

We are committed to responsible tourism practices that respect local communities and environments, ensuring that your travels contribute positively to the places you visit. By choosing CityCanvas Travel, you're not just planning a holiday—you're investing in memories that will last a lifetime, supported by a team that cares deeply about making your travel dreams come true.

Travel consultants planning a personalized itinerary

Popular Destinations

Great Barrier Reef snorkeling experience

Great Barrier Reef

Explore the world's largest coral reef system with our guided snorkeling and diving tours. Experience the breathtaking underwater world filled with vibrant coral formations and exotic marine life.

Uluru at sunset with stunning colors

Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park

Witness the spiritual heart of Australia with our respectful cultural tours. Watch the iconic red monolith transform through spectacular color changes at sunrise and sunset.

Tokyo modern cityscape at night

Tokyo, Japan

Immerse yourself in the perfect blend of tradition and innovation in Japan's capital. Our Tokyo packages include guided tours of ancient temples, modern shopping districts, and authentic culinary experiences.

White buildings of Santorini with blue domes

Santorini, Greece

Escape to the breathtaking island of Santorini with its iconic white-washed buildings and stunning sunsets over the Aegean Sea. Our packages include boutique accommodations and private tours of the island's hidden gems.

Ancient ruins of Machu Picchu in the mountains

Machu Picchu, Peru

Journey to the ancient Incan citadel set high in the Andes Mountains. Our expert guides will lead you through this archaeological wonder while sharing insights about its mysterious history and cultural significance.

Sydney Harbour with Opera House and Bridge

Sydney, Australia

Discover the vibrant culture and iconic landmarks of Australia's largest city. Our Sydney packages include harbor cruises, Opera House tours, and day trips to surrounding natural attractions.

Featured Travel Experiences

Exclusive wine tour in Australian vineyards

Australian Wine Country Retreat

Indulge in a luxurious 7-day journey through Australia's premier wine regions, including the Barossa Valley, Yarra Valley, and Margaret River. This exclusive package includes private tastings at award-winning wineries, gourmet dining experiences with wine pairings, and accommodations in boutique vineyard estates. Our expert sommelier guides will introduce you to winemakers and reveal the secrets behind Australia's world-renowned wines.

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Guided outback adventure with camping

Outback Exploration Expedition

Experience the true essence of Australia with our 10-day guided outback adventure. Travel through the Red Centre, explore ancient gorges, and connect with indigenous culture through traditional storytelling and bush tucker experiences. This journey includes comfortable glamping accommodations, 4WD transportation, and unforgettable stargazing in the pristine desert night sky. Perfect for those seeking authentic Australian experiences beyond the tourist trails.

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Cultural immersion tour in Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian Cultural Immersion

Embark on a transformative 14-day journey through Thailand, Vietnam, and Cambodia. This carefully curated experience goes beyond typical tourism to offer genuine connections with local communities. Participate in cooking classes using traditional methods, stay in community-based accommodations, and learn ancient crafts from skilled artisans. Our local guides provide cultural context and facilitate meaningful exchanges, creating memories that will stay with you long after you return home.

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Essential Travel Resources

We've partnered with trusted organizations to provide you with valuable resources for your journey. These carefully selected links will help you prepare for your next adventure.

Travel Packages

Domestic International

Weekend Explorer

From $499

per person

  • 3-day domestic getaway
  • Boutique accommodation
  • One guided experience
  • Transportation arrangements
  • 24/7 support hotline

Perfect for short breaks and long weekends to discover nearby Australian destinations. Ideal for busy professionals seeking a quick refresh without extensive planning.

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Outback Luxury

From $3,499

per person

  • 10-day premium experience
  • Luxury lodges and glamping
  • Private guided tours
  • Helicopter scenic flights
  • Gourmet dining experiences
  • Indigenous cultural interactions

The ultimate Australian experience combining rugged outback adventures with luxurious comforts. For travelers seeking authentic connections with the land without sacrificing comfort.

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Our Trusted Partners

We collaborate with premium travel providers to ensure exceptional experiences for our clients. These partnerships allow us to offer exclusive benefits and superior service throughout your journey.

Premium airline partner logo

Premium Airlines

Preferred rates and extra amenities with leading international and domestic carriers.

Luxury hotel collection logo

Luxury Accommodations

Access to exclusive properties and room upgrades at boutique and 5-star hotels worldwide.

Local tour operator association logo

Local Experience Creators

Partnerships with authentic local guides and experience providers for truly immersive travel.

Travel insurance provider logo

Travel Protection

Comprehensive travel insurance options tailored to different travel styles and requirements.

Traveler Community

Join our vibrant community of like-minded travelers who share a passion for authentic experiences and cultural connections. The CityCanvas Travel community extends beyond just booking trips—it's about fostering relationships and sharing the transformative power of travel.

As part of our community, you'll receive exclusive access to traveler meetups, where past and future clients can connect and exchange stories and tips. Our quarterly newsletter features inspiring traveler tales, insider destination information, and special community-only offers that reward your loyalty and passion for exploration.

We also organize regular travel photography exhibitions showcasing the amazing captures from our community members, and host cultural workshops where returned travelers can share their newly acquired skills—from cooking techniques to traditional crafts. Join us and become part of a supportive network that celebrates the joy of discovery and keeps the travel spirit alive even when you're home.

Join Our Community
Group of travelers sharing experiences at a CityCanvas community event

Community Voices

"CityCanvas didn't just plan our trip to Japan—they connected us with local artisans and hidden neighborhoods we would never have discovered on our own. We're still in touch with some of the people we met!"
— Sarah & David, Melbourne
"After attending one of their community meetups, I found travel companions for my European adventure. CityCanvas helped us create a shared itinerary that accommodated everyone's interests. It was the perfect balance of structure and spontaneity."
— Michael, Sydney
"The photography workshop they organized after my Peru trip helped me better capture my adventures. Now my travel photos tell much more compelling stories. The community aspect of CityCanvas adds so much value beyond the actual trips."
— Priya, Brisbane

Travel Workshops & Events

Smart packing workshop with travel experts

Smart Packing Masterclass

Monthly | Melbourne Office | Free for clients

Learn the art of efficient packing from our travel experts. This hands-on workshop will teach you how to pack lighter while being prepared for any situation. Discover the latest packing tools, organization techniques, and multi-functional travel items that will transform your packing experience.

Register Interest
Travel photography workshop in action

Travel Photography Essentials

Quarterly | Various Locations | $75 per session

Capture your travel memories like a pro with our photography workshop led by professional travel photographers. Covering composition, lighting, and storytelling through images, this practical session will help you create stunning visual souvenirs regardless of what camera equipment you use.

Register Interest
Cultural immersion workshop with international foods

Cultural Immersion Series

Bimonthly | Melbourne Office | $45 per session

Prepare for your journey with our cultural workshops focused on different destinations. Each session covers basic language phrases, cultural etiquette, food traditions, and insider tips for authentic experiences. Perfect for getting oriented before your trip or simply expanding your global understanding.

Register Interest
CityCanvas traveler meetup event with presentations

Traveler Meetup Nights

Monthly | Rotating Venues | Free

Connect with fellow travel enthusiasts at our popular meetup events featuring destination showcases, traveler stories, and networking opportunities. These relaxed evening gatherings are perfect for finding travel companions, gathering inspiration for future trips, and celebrating the joy of exploration in good company.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How far in advance should I book my travel?

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For domestic Australian travel, we recommend booking 3-6 months in advance, especially for popular destinations during peak seasons (December-February and school holiday periods). International trips benefit from 6-12 months of planning, particularly for complex itineraries or travel to destinations with limited accommodations. However, we do specialize in last-minute arrangements as well, so don't hesitate to contact us regardless of your timeframe.

What's included in your travel planning services?

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Our standard service includes personalized itinerary creation, accommodation bookings, transportation arrangements (flights, trains, transfers), activity reservations, and 24/7 support during your journey. We also provide comprehensive pre-departure information, destination guides, and packing recommendations. Additional services such as visa assistance, travel insurance, dining reservations, and special occasion arrangements are available based on your needs.

How do you handle travel disruptions?

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We provide 24/7 emergency support for all clients. If you experience flight cancellations, accommodation issues, or other disruptions, our team will work proactively to find alternatives and update your itinerary accordingly. We maintain relationships with suppliers worldwide to facilitate quick resolutions. We also recommend comprehensive travel insurance for additional protection, and we can help you select an appropriate policy based on your specific journey.

Do you cater to travelers with special requirements?

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Absolutely. We regularly arrange travel for clients with mobility issues, dietary restrictions, medical considerations, and family-specific needs. During our consultation, we'll discuss your specific requirements in detail and ensure all accommodations and activities are appropriate. We can arrange wheelchair-accessible transportation, communicate dietary needs to hotels and restaurants in advance, and select suitable activities for travelers of all abilities.

What is your cancellation policy?

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Our planning fee has a 14-day cooling-off period during which you can cancel for a full refund. Beyond this, cancellation policies for flights, accommodations, and activities vary by provider. We clearly communicate all terms before you confirm any bookings. For maximum flexibility, we recommend travel insurance with comprehensive cancellation coverage. In many cases, we can negotiate date changes rather than full cancellations, depending on the circumstances.

Can you help with business travel arrangements?

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Yes, we offer specialized business travel services that focus on efficiency, productivity, and comfort. Our corporate packages include priority check-in arrangements, executive transportation, meeting venue bookings, and itineraries that maximize productive time while minimizing travel fatigue. We also offer bleisure (business + leisure) extensions for executives who wish to add personal time to their business trips.

Join Our Team

At CityCanvas Travel, we're always looking for passionate travel experts to join our team. We believe that the best travel experiences are created by people who truly understand the transformative power of exploration and discovery. Our team combines industry expertise with personal travel experience to craft journeys that exceed our clients' expectations.

Working with us means being part of a collaborative, innovative environment where your travel knowledge and creativity are valued. We invest in continuous professional development, including destination familiarization trips, industry certifications, and specialized training. Our Melbourne office features a modern, flexible workspace designed to inspire creativity and foster collaboration.

We offer competitive compensation, travel benefits, and a supportive culture that recognizes the importance of work-life balance. Whether you're an experienced travel consultant or new to the industry but passionate about global exploration, we'd love to hear from you.

Current Openings:

  • Senior Travel Consultant

    Expert in creating bespoke international itineraries with at least 4 years of experience.

  • Digital Content Specialist

    Create engaging travel content across our digital platforms, combining travel experience with content creation skills.

  • Operations Coordinator

    Ensure seamless execution of travel arrangements with exceptional attention to detail.

Apply Now
CityCanvas Travel team collaborating in modern office

Start Your Journey

Get in Touch

Ready to plan your next adventure? Contact our travel experts for a personalized consultation. Whether you have a specific destination in mind or need inspiration, we're here to create your perfect travel experience.

Address

410 Collins Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000
Australia

Contact

Phone: +61 3 9001 5566
Email: [email protected]

Hours

Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm
Saturday: 10am-4pm
Sunday: Closed

Enquiry Form