Outback Beds Tours

Australian Outback & International Tours

International Tours

Western Japan and Okinawa

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From the Japanese Alps to the Seto Inland Sea

Our three-week February journey through western Japan and Okinawa is designed for travellers who want to experience Japan beyond the classic tourist trail. It combines remarkable landscapes, regional cuisine, traditional culture and genuinely memorable encounters.

We begin in Nagano with two days of skiing in the Japanese Alps, complemented by the restorative pleasure of an onsen and a stay in a traditional ryokan. From the mountains, we travel west to the Seto Inland Sea, where the pace becomes slower and more immersive.

On Naoshima—Japan’s celebrated “art island”—we explore extraordinary contemporary art installations and architecture woven into the island landscape. We then continue to the Shimanami Kaido for one of Japan’s great active-travel experiences: cycling between the islands of the Seto Inland Sea across impressive bridges and along quiet coastal roads. Along the way, we pass fishing villages and stop to enjoy local food and scenery.

Hiroshima and Miyajima

Our journey continues through Hiroshima and across to Miyajima, balancing the profound history of these destinations with their living culture, beautiful landscapes and regional food traditions.

Rather than simply ticking off the major sights, our small-group approach gives us time to seek out local restaurants, neighbourhood experiences and lesser-visited places. There is a strong emphasis on seasonal Japanese cuisine and the customs that make each region distinctive.

We experience the contrast between Hiroshima’s vibrant contemporary city life and Miyajima’s forested mountains, shrine traditions and island atmosphere, while leaving space for the unexpected discoveries that are often a highlight of small-group travel.

Carefully selected accommodation—including traditional ryokans where appropriate—adds another dimension to the journey, providing opportunities to experience Japanese hospitality, tatami rooms, onsen culture and beautifully prepared regional meals.

The Okinawa Islands

The final stage of our journey takes us into the subtropical world of the Okinawa Islands, where the scenery shifts dramatically from snow-covered mountains to turquoise seas, coral reefs and distinctive Ryukyuan culture.

We explore Okinawa’s most rewarding experiences while avoiding a conventional resort itinerary. These include historic Ryukyu heritage, traditional villages, extraordinary coastal scenery and regional specialities such as goya, Okinawa soba and locally caught seafood.

Depending on conditions, there may also be opportunities for an island excursion, snorkelling or coastal exploration, alongside time to relax and enjoy Okinawa’s slower pace of life.

As a small, personal travel company, our aim is to create a journey that feels considered rather than packaged—combining Japan’s iconic experiences with excellent food, meaningful cultural encounters, beautiful accommodation and less-travelled places that provide stories you will remember long after returning home.

Journey highlights

  • Three-week journey through western Japan and Okinawa
  • Skiing in the Japanese Alps
  • Traditional ryokan stays and onsen experiences
  • Contemporary art and architecture on Naoshima
  • Cycling the Shimanami Kaido
  • Hiroshima and Miyajima
  • Seasonal Japanese and regional Okinawan cuisine
  • Ryukyuan history and culture
  • Island, snorkelling and coastal experiences, subject to conditions
  • Personal small-group touring beyond the conventional tourist trail

Japanese Temple, Mountain Forest and Food Tour

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Our Japan Cycling Tour offers a dynamic road trip through rural Japan, cycling from one town to another as part of a fully escorted small group. The tour runs for 7 days and 6 nights, plus travel to and from Japan, and can be arranged on request.

The tour has been carefully designed around experiencing Japanese culture as we ride, with a particular focus on great food, while also incorporating temples, nature, onsens, rural life and plenty of exercise.

We cycle through the less-travelled rural and mountain regions north of Tokyo, following quiet roads through spectacular scenery, traditional villages, high country and farmland. Along the way we’ll visit historic towns and stay in hand-picked hotels and ryokans — traditional Japanese inns — where a relaxing natural hot-spring onsen awaits at the end of the day’s ride.

Food is an important part of the journey. We’ll experience beautifully prepared Japanese meals featuring local produce, seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. These may include multi-course kaiseki dinners, shabu-shabu and sukiyaki featuring Nasu wagyu beef, fresh river fish, handmade soba noodles and tempura.

As we ride through the countryside, we’ll also have opportunities to taste locally produced cheeses and ice creams, visit sake-producing country, discover craft beer and perhaps even sample some of the region’s surprisingly good local wine. Much of what appears on our plates comes directly from the landscapes and communities we’re cycling through.

The riding itself takes us through some wonderful Japanese countryside, including mountain landscapes, rural farmland and villages where traditional ways of life remain very much part of the landscape. It’s an opportunity to experience a side of Japan that most visitors simply don’t see.

Bill will travel and ride with the group, accompanied by an English-speaking Japanese guide on cycling days. The riding is fully supported with luggage transfers, mechanical assistance and backup vehicles, allowing you to concentrate on enjoying the ride.

There is no need to bring your own bicycle. Bike hire is included, with a choice of road bike or e-hybrid bike, avoiding the difficulty of transporting bicycles on Japan’s busy public transport system.

This is much more than a cycling holiday. It’s a chance to discover the food, landscapes, hospitality and culture of rural Japan from the saddle, travelling slowly enough to experience the places and people along the way.

Note: There is no current itinerary available. In the meantime, you can download the 2025 tour itinerary below for reference.



Japanese Temple, Mountain Forest and Food Tour

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Our 2025 cycling tour to Japan offers a dynamic road trip cycling from one town to another in fully escorted, small group led by English speaking guide. Our tour is 7 days and 6 night plus travel to and from Japan. It is designed to allow a short break from Australia and takes the Easter and ANZAC Day public holidays.

The tour has been carefully planned and has been based on the idea of experiencing interesting aspects of Japanese culture while we ride. This tour has a particular focus on high quality meals but also incorporates temples, culture, nature, onsens, life in rural Japan and exercise. We will be biking through less travelled areas in the rural mountain region north of Tokyo. Our route takes us through wonderful scenery and enables us to experience traditional Japanese culture and food along the way. We will be visiting historic towns and will be staying at long established hotels and ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) with relaxing onsens. We are hoping that you will discover the heart of Japan on this epic ride.

Take in the spectacular scenery of mountains, high country and rural farmland and villages (some still using thatch on their roofs) as you ride through Japan’s beautiful central alps. Our food will focus on eating high quality Japanese foods, staying in hand picked Japanese ryokans (traditional inns) and relaxing after the days’ ride in hot natural spring onsens. Some of the food that we will be trying will include keiseki dinners which feature dozens of dishes incorporating local produce, seasonal ingredients and regional specialties. Some of the unique dishes will include shabu-shabu and sukiyaki using the finest Nasu wagyu beef. In the Nasu mountains we will eat fresh river fish which will be grilled, sautéed or prepared as sashimi. We will also be tasting locally produced cheeses, ice creams and home made soba noodles and tempura. We will be riding through many areas where these food are grown or made. North of Tokyo is called the Kanto region and is known as the rice bowl of Tokyo. Rice = sake = many famous brands to taste. We will also be serendipitously cycling past a craft brewery, and finally, we will have the opportunity to taste the surprising local wine.

Bill will be travelling and riding with you but it will also include an English speaking Japanese guide on the cycling days. Our riding will be fully supported with luggage transfers, mechanical support and backup vans. We do not recommend brining your own bike as they can be difficult to carry on Japan’s busy public transport system. The tour includes the cost of bike hire (road bikes or e-hybrid bikes).

A Taste of Veneto

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Discover a side of northern Italy that goes well beyond the usual tourist trail on this small-group journey through Veneto. From the foothills of the Dolomites and the rolling Prosecco hills to historic villages and the islands of the Venetian lagoon, this is a tour built around good food, beautiful landscapes and the people who call this remarkable region home.

We begin in the Pre-Alpine country of Valbelluna, Cansiglio and Feltre, where forests, mountain villages and local food traditions set the pace for the journey. Along the way there will be opportunities to walk through spectacular landscapes, meet local producers and discover some of the region’s cheeses, mushrooms and truffles – with plenty of time around the table as well.

From here we travel into the beautiful Asolo and Valdobbiadene hills, exploring historic towns, villas, vineyards and family producers. Food remains at the heart of the experience, with cooking, cheese and charcuterie, local restaurants and tastings of Prosecco Superiore among the highlights.

The final part of the journey takes us towards Venice and its lagoon, but not simply to see Venice in the conventional way. We’ll explore the Brenta Riviera, local markets and bacari, and venture onto some of the lagoon’s smaller islands, including Burano and Torcello.

As with all Outback Beds Tours, the emphasis is on travelling slowly and travelling well. Rather than rushing from one attraction to the next, we’ll spend time discovering the food, landscapes, traditions and communities that give Veneto its character.

Two weeks, a small group and a wonderful slice of northern Italy – experienced from the inside rather than through a tour-bus window.

Pauline & Bill’s Tour of Morocco

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Discover Morocco on a small-group journey through its colourful cities, ancient medinas, mountain landscapes and desert, with a special focus on Moroccan food, culture and traditions.

Bill’s connection with Morocco began several decades ago. In the 1970s, his older sisters Pauline and Mary escaped a cold London winter in search of a warm and exotic adventure. As adventures sometimes do, one thing led to another: Pauline married Morad, their Moroccan tour guide — quite the scandal at the time — and went on to live for many years in Tangier in northern Morocco.

Some years later, Bill visited the family and unexpectedly found himself looking after three young multilingual children, armed with the keys to a Renault 4 and assisted by a house helper who spoke no English. Pauline had “popped over to Paris” to arrange new passports for the children, while Morad left to lead a month-long tour.

And so Bill’s own Moroccan adventure began.

With Pauline away “quite some time”, Bill mastered the Renault 4, loaded up the kids and began exploring on day trips from Tangier. During those months, and through many subsequent visits, he travelled extensively throughout Morocco and developed a lasting connection with its people, culture and food.

Over two weeks, our Morocco tour covers plenty of ground at a comfortable pace. We explore imperial cities, mountains and desert landscapes while discovering the traditions, architecture, history and everyday life that make Morocco such a fascinating destination.

Food is an important part of the journey. Morocco evokes the aromas of slow-cooked tagines, bustling souks, labyrinthine medinas and colourful stalls piled high with spices. We visit local food markets, enjoy meals prepared by guest cooks, dine at carefully selected restaurants and even do a little Moroccan cooking ourselves.

Throughout the journey we experience a country rich in culture and tradition, from its historic cities and architecture to its landscapes, markets and communities. Morocco is a relatively liberal Muslim country, although visitors should respect local customs, including dressing modestly.

Our guide Mohamed and driver Rachid will lead us on a carefully crafted journey in search of Morocco’s traditions, culture, architecture, landscapes and, most importantly, its fabulous food.

Designed as a relaxed small-group experience, the tour includes travel within Morocco, accommodation, meals and entry to a wide range of sites and activities. More than simply a sightseeing tour, it is an opportunity to experience Morocco through its food, people and culture, travelling with hosts who have a genuine personal connection to the country.

We look forward to welcoming you to Casablanca in May 2027.

Optional Tour Extension

For guests wanting to extend their European adventure, Bill is developing an optional 10-day guided walking tour along the Portuguese Camino, following the historic pilgrimage route towards Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

The extension will commence immediately after the Morocco tour. Further details will be provided once the itinerary is confirmed.

Luke’s Food Tour Of Scicily & Sardinia

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Discover the flavours, landscapes and rich cultural heritage of two of the Mediterranean’s most distinctive islands on an unforgettable small-group journey through Sicily, with the option to continue on to Sardinia.

Sicily is a remarkable blend of food, history, architecture and culture, shaped by centuries of Mediterranean influence. From vibrant Palermo and historic towns to local markets, vineyards and coastal communities, the tour combines memorable sightseeing with a strong focus on the island’s celebrated food and wine.

Food is an important part of the journey. Along the way, enjoy regional specialties at restaurants, cantinas and street vendors, together with hands-on cooking experiences during our stay at the villa. Expect everything from arancini, cannoli and Pasta alla Norma to fresh seafood, local wines, traditional desserts and the irresistible Sicilian granita.

Travel is in comfortable minivans with a small group of like-minded travellers who enjoy good food, wine and discovering places beyond the usual tourist trail. Accommodation is carefully selected for its comfort, character and location, with a little luxury included along the way.

For those wanting to extend their Italian adventure, an optional tour of Sardinia follows immediately after Sicily. Less populated and distinctly different from its neighbour, Sardinia offers spectacular landscapes, fascinating traditions and its own unique food and wine culture.

Tertia’s Home Tour of Namibia & South Africa

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Southern Africa is a land of extraordinary contrasts, vast desert landscapes, abundant wildlife, spectacular sunsets, rich cultures and distinctive regional flavours. There are similarities to the Australian outback, yet Namibia and South Africa offer an experience entirely their own.

This 23-day small-group journey combines eight days exploring Namibia with 15 days through South Africa, travelling with Tertia and Ken Butcher, whose personal connection and extensive experience in the region bring another dimension to the tour.

Born and raised in Graaff-Reinet in South Africa’s beautiful Eastern Cape, Tertia returns to her homeland and some of the places she knows and loves best. The journey includes Graaff-Reinet — often described as the jewel of the Karoo — along with one of her favourite destinations, the remarkable Kruger National Park.

Food is also part of the experience. Along the way, discover the different influences that have shaped Southern African cooking, from Namibia’s German heritage to South Africa’s Dutch and Indian flavours. At Kruger, enjoy the tradition of a wood-fired braai, with Ken taking his turn as chef.

Travelling in comfortable minibuses or vans with a small group of like-minded guests, the tour combines wildlife, landscapes, history, culture and local food with carefully selected accommodation and a touch of luxury. It is an opportunity to experience Southern Africa at a relaxed pace, travelling with people who know the region and enjoying places well beyond the usual tourist trail.

Luke’s Food Tour of Morocco

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My Moroccan adventure is young and fresh, and I’m incredibly excited to be joining Pauline and Bill on this journey through Morocco — a land of colour, intrigue, fascinating culture and, of course, extraordinary food. Together, we’ve created a unique small-group adventure that combines their deep connection with Morocco with my passion for food and food culture.

Bill’s Moroccan adventure began several decades ago. In the hip 1970s, his two older sisters, Pauline and Mary, escaped a cold London winter in search of a warm and exotic week of adventure. As adventures often do, one thing led to another: Pauline married Morad, their Moroccan tour guide — quite the scandal at the time — and went on to live for many years in Tangier in northern Morocco.

Some years later, Bill visited the family in Morocco and soon found himself in charge of three young multilingual children, the keys to a Renault 4 and a house helper who spoke no English. Pauline had just “popped over to Paris” to arrange new passports for the children, while her husband Morad left to lead a month-long tour.

And so Bill’s own Moroccan adventure began.

Pauline was gone “quite some time”, giving Bill plenty of opportunity to master the Renault 4, load up the kids and begin exploring on day trips from Tangier. During those months — and through many subsequent visits — Bill travelled extensively throughout Morocco, immersing himself in its culture, traditions and food.

One of Bill’s great passions has since become cooking Moroccan food, and he has passed that enthusiasm, along with his considerable cooking skills (he made me say that), on to me.

Discover Morocco Through Its Food

Morocco is a big country, but over two weeks we’ll comfortably cover plenty of ground while experiencing some of the best it has to offer. We’ll explore imperial cities, mountains and desert landscapes, with a particular focus on Moroccan food and the culture and traditions surrounding it.

Morocco. Just saying the name conjures up the aroma of slow-cooked tagines, bustling souks, labyrinthine medinas and colourful stalls piled high with spices.

Food will be at the heart of our journey. We’ll explore local food markets, enjoy meals prepared by guest cooks, dine at carefully selected restaurants and even do a little Moroccan cooking ourselves. Along the way, we’ll discover how food connects with family, place, history and everyday Moroccan life.

But this journey is about much more than what’s on the plate.

Morocco is rich in culture and traditions, with centuries of history reflected in its architecture, ancient medinas, markets, landscapes and communities. While Morocco is a relatively liberal Muslim country, visitors should respect local customs, including dressing modestly.

Our professional guide and interpreter will be Bill’s brother-in-law, Morad, whose local knowledge and connection to the country bring another dimension to the journey.

Together, Morad, Bill and I will lead you on a carefully crafted Moroccan adventure in search of its traditions, culture, architecture, landscapes and — most importantly — its fabulous food.

A Small-Group Moroccan Food Adventure

Luke’s Moroccan Food Adventure is designed as a relaxed, personal small-group experience. The tour includes travel, accommodation, meals and entry to a wide range of sites and activities, allowing you to concentrate on experiencing Morocco rather than worrying about the logistics.

This isn’t simply a sightseeing tour. It’s an opportunity to experience Morocco through its food, people and culture, travelling with hosts who have a genuine personal connection to the country.

Morad, Bill and I are very much looking forward to sharing the adventure with you.