At Toowoomba Cruise & Travel, we love sharing real travel experiences from our clients.

This journey, shared by our clients Robert & Kath, highlights what can happen when you step beyond your original plans and trust expert advice... combining a Caribbean island-hopping tour with a Colombia river cruise for a truly unforgettable experience.

Robert and Kath originally approached Bernie Freyling at Toowoomba Cruise & Travel with plans to visit Cuba, curious to explore the Caribbean beyond the typical cruise experience.

What they discovered instead was something far more immersive.

Through Undiscovered Destinations, they joined a 20-day small group Caribbean island-hopping tour, visiting Saint Kitts and Nevis, Dominica, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Trinidad, Curaçao and Aruba.

Travelling between islands was seamless, with regional flights running like clockwork.

As Robert and Kath shared, the real value came from the depth of experience:

“Each island offers its own personality, and travelling in a small group with knowledgeable local guides brought those differences to life.”

This style of travel allows you to:

• Experience each destination more deeply
• Connect with local guides and communities
• Enjoy a balance of guided experiences and free time

Their journey featured a diverse mix of activities, including:

• Snorkelling in crystal-clear waters
• Visiting sulphur springs and mud baths
• Exploring historical landmarks
• Sampling local food and drink

With consistently high-quality accommodation and a well-paced itinerary, the experience struck the perfect balance between activity and relaxation.

As part of their broader Americas trip, Robert and Kath had hoped to include Cuba. However, Bernie suggested an alternative — a Colombia river cruise with AmaWaterways. Initially hesitant due to outdated perceptions of safety, they trusted the recommendation.

“It turned out to be one of the highlights of our entire trip.”

Their journey also included extended stays in Medellín and Panama City.

• Medellín surprised them as a safe, vibrant and thriving city, known for its “eternal spring” climate
• Panama City offered a unique contrast between modern city life and a beautifully preserved historic old town

The 7-day river cruise along the Magdalena River, from Barranquilla to Cartagena aboard the AmaMagdalena, delivered a completely different perspective on Colombia.

“Cruising the Magdalena River provided a unique perspective, with opportunities to visit riverside communities and observe abundant birdlife and wildlife.”

Despite being relatively untouched by mass tourism, the region offered both authenticity and comfort.

Robert and Kath described the onboard experience as exceptional, highlighting:

• Comfortable, stylish accommodation
• Outstanding service from the crew
• Knowledgeable and passionate local guides
• A blend of local and Western cuisine

This journey reinforced an important lesson for Robert & Kathy:

“Sometimes the most memorable travel experiences come from stepping outside your original plans and trusting expert advice.”

From Caribbean island hopping to discovering Colombia and Panama, their trip delivered far more than expected.



If you’re considering a Caribbean holiday or wondering whether Colombia is worth visiting, this client experience shows what’s possible with the right guidance.

Contact Toowoomba Cruise & Travel to start planning your own tailored journey.