The real deal: Multicity airfare on Qantas (U.S. to Auckland, Auckland to Sydney, Sydney to U.S.); three nights at the Hyatt Regency Auckland; three nights at the Sydney Harbour Marriott; a full-day Auckland tour, including a visit to nearby Waiheke Island for a wine tasting; a full-day tour of Australia's Hunter Valley wine country; and fuel surcharges; from $1,569 per person — plus about $175 in taxes.
When: May 1–June 8, July 24–Sept. 21, 2010; add $110 through April 30; $220 June 9–July 23.
Gateways: L.A.; add $125 for Las Vegas, San Diego; $240 for Phoenix; $255 for Seattle; $290 for Portland; $365 for Albuquerque, Boise, Denver, Houston.
The fine print: Does not include about $175 per person in taxes. Based on double occupancy; single supplement is from $370. Use promo code Frommers. Read these guidelines before you book any Real Deal.
{
"type": "Slideshow",
"element": null,
"html": null,
"ecommerceEnabled": false
}Contact: Down Under Answers, 866/792-5458, duatravel.com.
Why it's a deal: In a recent Kayak search, we found a multicity fare (L.A. to Auckland, Auckland to Sydney, Sydney to L.A.) for travel in early May for $852 (Qantas).
A six-night stay in the five-star hotels featured in this package would cost about $630 per person. The value of the tours is $433. So, booking independently, you would expect to pay about $1,915, including all taxes. This package costs $1,744 per person, including all taxes, so you save $171.
Plus, you get the convenience of having the tour operator book the airfare, hotels, and tours on your behalf.
More: Add nights in Auckland from $162 per room; in Sydney, add nights from $255 per room.