Floris Fluitsma
As a young boy, I already knew I wanted to become a ‘holiday maker’. Born and raised in the Netherlands, I was found travelling the globe at the age of only 17 (which was back in 1985).
I first travelled to Australia on an exchange program when studying for my MBA and got captivated by this remote continent-island. Its isolation, both geological and socially, has imparted to Australia much of its wonder and charm. Feeling at ease with the qualities that best describe the modern Australian personality - outgoing, fun, engaging, smart, enthusiastic, and self-reliant – I now proudly call my beloved country home.
What makes me tick? Well, managing Australia Inbound is my absolute passion, as is ice cream, I am always in to try and do new things and I love venturing out into Australia’s great outdoors.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Our nationwide network of local partners enables us to deliver a portfolio of highly rated experiences, accommodating a wide range of budgets, standards of comfort & uniqueness and levels of activity. From join-in coach tours to self-drives, from camping or glamping to the comforts of luxury accommodation, from professional surfing lessons to (self-)guided nature hikes. You tell us what you expect from your dream-holiday to Australia, chances are we will make it happen!"
How did you get involved in travel?
"I spent most of my career in travel & hospitality, working in Finance and General Management roles with companies like KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and Sawadee Reizen, the leader in the Dutch small-group adventure travel segment, before settling Down Under in 2014. That is when I started Australia Inbound by Orange Journeys, now recognized for genuinely personal and excellent service in delivering tailor made itineraries, taking our travelers into all corners of the continent."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"Let me share two…. 😉 One of the most special moments I’ve experienced whilst travelling Australia was at Cape Tribulation, in Daintree National Park. I rose early to capture the sun rise over the Coral Sea; walking on a deserted palm fringed beach, with the morning mist rising from the lush rainforest and the sky colouring in pinks, purples and blues was just mesmerizing.
Also never to forget was the first time I travelled to this small coral cay on the Great Barrier Reef, undoubtedly one of the best snorkeling spots in the country. The reef here is relatively pristine, turtles roam the seas in abundance and large manta rays are frequently spotted. Want to know where to find this hidden gem? Just ask me!"