Clubmates Travel
How We Pick Destinations for Supported Group Tours Around Australia
Posted on June 26, 2026 by Matilda Negri
Reading time about 13 minutes
Choosing the right destination is one of the most important parts of planning a supported holiday.
When most people look at a destination, they think about what there is to see and do. They picture the beaches, attractions, events or scenery. Those things matter, but when we’re planning a group tour, they’re only part of the picture.
We also think about accessibility, sensory load, routine, social opportunities, transport, accommodation and whether the environment will help passengers feel comfortable and confident. A destination might look fantastic on a travel brochure, but that doesn’t automatically make it the right fit for a supported trip.
Over the years, we’ve learned that the best holidays are not always the busiest or most exciting ones. They’re the ones where passengers feel included, supported and able to enjoy the experience in a way that works for them.
That’s why destination planning goes much deeper than choosing a place on a map. Every location we consider is assessed through the lens of support. We ask ourselves whether the environment will help passengers participate, connect with others and get the most out of their holiday.
Why Destination Choice Matters
The destination shapes almost every part of the travel experience.
A place with long walking distances, confusing layouts or constant crowds can be exhausting for some travellers. On the other hand, a destination with good accessibility, manageable routines and opportunities to take breaks can help people feel more relaxed and confident from the moment they arrive.
We’ve seen how the right environment can encourage people to try new things, build friendships and become more independent. We’ve also seen how a destination that looks great on paper can create unnecessary challenges if it doesn’t match the needs of the people travelling there.
That’s why we don’t start by asking, “Where do people want to go?”
We start by asking, “What kind of experience are we trying to create, and who are we creating it for?”
What Makes Cruises Work Well for Supported Travel
Cruises can be one of the easiest ways for some travellers to settle into a holiday.
One thing we’ve noticed is that many passengers enjoy the predictability that comes with life on a ship. Once they know where their cabin is, where meals are served and how to get around, a routine often develops quite naturally. There is no need to repack bags every day or constantly move between different hotels and locations.
For people who like structure, that familiarity can be reassuring. We often see passengers become more relaxed and confident as the trip progresses because they know what to expect.
Cruises can also provide plenty of opportunities for social connection. Whether it’s sharing meals, attending shows, joining activities or simply spending time together in common areas, there are lots of natural opportunities for friendships to develop.
Of course, cruises are not the right fit for everyone. Boarding days can be busy, dining areas can be noisy and large ships can sometimes feel overwhelming for people who prefer quieter environments. Changes to schedules because of weather or port conditions can also be challenging for travellers who rely heavily on routine.
That’s why we focus on matching the experience to the individual. For someone who enjoys entertainment, routine and being part of a group, a cruise can be a fantastic option.
Why Cities Can Be Exciting, But Need Careful Planning
City trips often offer some of the widest variety of experiences.
From sporting events and live shows to museums, restaurants, zoos and major attractions, there is usually something for everyone. This variety can be especially valuable when travelling with a group that has different interests and personalities.
We’ve found that some passengers absolutely thrive in city environments. They enjoy the energy, the people and the feeling that there is always something happening. Others enjoy the excitement for a few hours, then need time away from the crowds to recharge.
That balance is where careful planning becomes important.
A city itinerary should never feel like a race from one attraction to the next. The best city trips include downtime, flexible options and opportunities for people to step away from busy environments when they need to.
Some of the most successful city tours are not necessarily the ones where we see the most attractions. They’re the ones where passengers have enough time to enjoy each experience without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
The Value of Regional Areas for Supported Group Travel
Regional destinations often provide a completely different travel experience.
While they may not have the same number of attractions as major cities, they can offer something equally valuable: space, simplicity and a slower pace.
We’ve found that many travellers enjoy regional areas because they feel less demanding. Streets are often quieter, attractions are less crowded and daily schedules can move at a more comfortable pace.
For passengers who find large crowds overwhelming, this can make a significant difference. Instead of spending energy navigating busy environments, they can focus on enjoying the experience itself.
Regional trips can also create some wonderful opportunities for community connection. Visiting local markets, country events, wildlife attractions or small businesses often leads to genuine interactions that feel more personal and relaxed.
The planning, however, needs to be thorough. Regional areas don’t always offer the same accessibility infrastructure as major cities, which means accommodation, transport and support arrangements need to be carefully assessed before a trip goes ahead.
When planned well, regional destinations often strike a beautiful balance between adventure and comfort.
Why Festivals Can Be Powerful Social Experiences
Some of the most memorable moments we’ve seen on tour have happened at festivals and major events. Our supported disability tours to music festivals is something ClubMates has become known for over the past 20 years.
For our travellers, these environments unlock a level of confidence and self-expression that families don’t always get to see at home.
We’ve watched passengers dance to their favourite songs, strike up conversations with new people and become completely immersed in the atmosphere around them. Those moments can be incredibly meaningful.
Festivals also create natural opportunities for group bonding. The shared excitement gives people something to talk about, laugh about and remember long after the trip is over.
At the same time, festivals require careful planning. Crowds, queues, heat, noise and long days can all become challenging if the right supports aren’t in place.
The best festival experiences involve us knowing when to push passengers gently into the excitement and when to step away for a break.
Why Outdoor Adventures Can Be Life-Changing
For some travellers, nothing beats getting outdoors. Camping, fishing, four-wheel driving and exploring remote parts of Australia can support confidence, wellbeing and a sense of adventure that is hard to find anywhere else.
These trips are often a great fit for people who enjoy hands-on experiences, practical activities and spending time away from crowds. We’ve found they can be particularly rewarding for travellers who want to challenge themselves and experience something completely different from everyday life.
One of our recent travellers, Kishore, returned from a solo supported trip through the Red Centre, a destination he never thought he would have the chance to experience. For many people, these kinds of adventures sit firmly on the bucket list until they realise they don’t have to do it alone.
Remote travel requires careful planning, experienced support and the right equipment. We’ve been to Cape York, the Binn’s Track and plan multiple outback weeks away or nights around the campfire. Our team specialises in helping travellers experience parts of Australia they once thought were out of reach.
The Factors We Assess Before Choosing Destinations
Every destination we consider is assessed through the lens of support. While attractions and activities are important, they’re only one part of the decision.
Accessibility
We look beyond ramps and accessible bathrooms. We consider accommodation, transport, walking distances, personal care requirements and how easily passengers can participate throughout the trip.
Sensory Environment
Some travellers thrive in busy, energetic environments, while others prefer quieter settings. We consider noise levels, crowds, waiting times and the overall sensory demands of a destination.
Routine and Flexibility
Many passengers feel more comfortable when there is a clear structure to the day. At the same time, travel requires flexibility. We look for destinations that allow us to provide both predictability and options when plans change.
Social Opportunities
One of the greatest benefits of group travel is connection. We look for experiences that encourage conversation, shared memories and meaningful participation with others.
Support Logistics
Behind every successful trip is careful planning. We consider travel times, accommodation, accessibility, local services, emergency planning and how our support crew can best assist passengers throughout the journey.
No matter where we travel, the goal is always the same: creating an experience where passengers feel safe, supported and able to enjoy everything the destination has to offer that doesn’t turn into a logistical nightmare.
Ready to Find the Right Supported Trip?
There are as many travel preferences as there are stars in the sky. Generally, when we ask people where they want to go, they say “anywhere”. So, we’ve seen first-hand that the best holiday is actually less about the specific destination, but the one that matches their interests, support needs and comfort level.
If you’re unsure which type of trip might be the right fit, the ClubMates Travel team can help. We can talk through travel styles, support requirements and what each destination offers, helping you find an experience that feels both exciting and achievable.
Ready to build your own friendships and connections?
Click below to get the ball rolling on your own group travel experience and look forward to making new friends on a ClubMates tour!
China is one of those countries that keeps surprising people—especially when you see the landscapes that don’t even look real. Towering rainbow mountains, glass walkways over steep cliffs, mist-covered peaks that inspired movies like Avatar—China’s natural wonders feel like stepping into another world.
And guess what? With the right support and planning, these mind-blowing places can be explored by people of all abilities. At ClubMates Travel, we believe that accessible travel should be more than just getting from A to B—it should be about awe, wonder, and saying “I can’t believe I’m actually here.”
Here are a few incredible spots in China that look out of this world—and why they might just end up on your travel wishlist.
Zhangjiajie National Forest Park – The Real-Life Pandora
Ever seen floating mountains? Well, you’re about to. Zhangjiajie is a UNESCO World Heritage site and the inspiration behind the flying mountains in Avatar. Giant stone pillars rise up through misty clouds—it’s so surreal it feels like CGI.
There are cable cars and glass elevators that take you up into the peaks, and accessible walkways in many areas, making this a great option for travel for people with disabilities when paired with the right support crew.
The Rainbow Mountains – Zhangye Danxia Geopark
Imagine layers of red, orange, gold, and green rock stretched across rolling hills. These colourful formations look like someone took a paintbrush to the land. They’re even more breathtaking in person.
The Rainbow Mountains are best explored in daylight hours when the colours shine brightest. Some viewing platforms and paths are paved and can be navigated with mobility assistance. Like all our accessible holidays, having specialist travel support makes a huge difference in comfort and safety.
Yuanyang Rice Terraces – A Living Mirror
At sunrise or sunset, the rice terraces of Yuanyang reflect the sky like an enormous mirror. It’s peaceful, dreamlike, and incredibly calming—perfect for travellers who want to slow down, connect with nature, and just take it all in.
This spot is especially powerful for people who are working toward NDIS goals like mindfulness, emotional regulation, or confidence in new environments. With supported travel, it’s more than sightseeing—it becomes a sensory and emotional experience.
The Glass Bridge – Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon
If you’re feeling brave, there’s a 430-metre-long glass bridge suspended over the canyon. Yes—it’s see-through. But it’s also safe, sturdy, and absolutely unforgettable. For those not afraid of heights, this is an epic moment that will stick with you for life.
We understand that thrill-seeking looks different for everyone. At ClubMates, our support crew are trained to encourage, not push—so passengers can take part in activities at their own comfort level.
Jiuzhaigou Valley – China’s Fairytale Water World
Think turquoise lakes, sparkling waterfalls, and snow-capped peaks. Jiuzhaigou is a dreamscape—peaceful, scenic, and full of charm. It’s also one of the more accessible nature parks in China, with eco buses and walkways that help make the journey smoother.
This kind of environment is great for building confidence, promoting social participation, and feeling part of something beautiful.
Why China? Why ClubMates?
Travelling to a country as big and bold as China might feel impossible—but that’s where we come in. As one of Australia’s most experienced NDIS holiday providers, we specialise in international supported travel that opens up the world for people with disabilities. We design every itinerary to work toward common NDIS goals—things like independence, community access, resilience, and joy.
Our team handles everything: accessible hotels, ground transport, daily activities, and of course, personal support workers who are trained specifically for disability travel.
If you’ve ever dreamt of seeing the Great Wall, watching lanterns float across the sky, or standing in a place that feels like another planet—then maybe it’s time to get curious.
ClubMates makes accessible travel across the globe achievable, enjoyable, and unforgettable.
Talk to our team about our upcoming tours to China or ask about designing your own supported adventure. We’ll help you figure out how your supports work with your NDIS funding and what out-of-pocket costs you can expect.
Because no one should miss out on the wonders of the world—especially you.
