Katie Hanssen
Travel Associates Toorak
Toorak, VIC
Travel Advisor
Specialties
Adventure
All-Inclusive Holiday
Cruise
Culture & Heritage
Ocean Cruise
5 more+
5 more+
Katie Hanssen’s extensive expertise and personal experiences enable her to craft journeys that go beyond the ordinary, ensuring every trip is as unique as the people she works with.
Katie’s own experiences allow her to craft authentic itineraries that reflect your unique preferences. From her time at the Festa Da Funghi in Tuscany, Italy, where the streets came alive with delicious mushroom dishes and lively dancing, to exploring Istanbul's little streets and alleyways, filled with boutique stores and delicious food, Katie has a story for every destination. Her experiences shape the way she plans trips for her clients, making each journey one of a kind.
Katie has a special connection with Nepal. Having travelled there more than ten times, she’s developed a strong bond with its people, landscapes, and culture. In fact, Katie's knowledge of Nepal runs so deep she wrote a book about it and has personally guided travellers on transformative journeys through the Upper Mustang, where ancient rituals and mystical landscapes create an unforgettable atmosphere. One of Katie’s most memorable experiences involved leading clients on a tour of Upper Mustang, where they witnessed a local wedding and explored ancient 4,000-year-old caves with a local monk. For Katie, these kinds of authentic, enriching experiences are what travel is all about.
Katie’s expertise spans a variety of travel styles, so whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating ocean cruise, an adventurous self-driving journey, or a relaxing all-inclusive holiday, she ensures every trip is personalised to exceed your expectations. But her real expertise lies in creating life-changing experiences.
For Katie, travel is not just about visiting new places; it’s about connecting deeply with them, and she takes the time to truly understand her clients’ expectations and visions to ensure every journey is tailored to their personal interests and desires.
“I believe in finding the right solution for every client, even suggesting destinations they might not have considered to meet their needs,” she says.
Whether you're looking for an adventure, cultural immersion, or the perfect getaway, Katie's dedication to understanding your desires and providing personalised service makes her the perfect travel advisor for your next trip.
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EXPERIENCE
9 Years
COUNTRIES VISITED
13 Countries
Get to know me
What is the most amazing experience you have created for a client?
I’ve hosted and guided many clients on a one-of-a-kind journey to Upper Mustang, Nepal. This included a local wedding, a personal interview with a monk, and visits to the ancient Jhong caves. Some say they’re over 12,000 years old. Thousands of caves remain, depicting its rich history.
What is your number one travel tip?
Keep an open mind, breathe, and remember that every moment is fleeting. Embrace the journey and go slowly to truly appreciate it.
What are your favourite destinations and why?
I love Nepal for its landscapes, people, and culture. I fell in love with this country and even wrote a book about it. Upper Mustang is a world of mystery and ancient rituals. The mountain life is simple and peaceful—it always grounds me. Nepal is so much more than just trekking Everest!
How do you go above and beyond for your clients?
I spend the time to really understand their expectations and what their vision is, to ensure I curate a trip that is perfectly aligned with them. I believe my gift is that I always try to find a solution and a way to get my clients' needs met.



OUR OFFICE
Travel Associates Toorak
Welcome to Travel Associates Toorak, our specialist cruise boutique set in a beautiful Tudor property on the corner of Grange and Toorak Roads in Melbourne. Our friendly team of five have decades of luxury travel experience under our belts, and we’re ready to ensure that your trip is nothing but memorable from the minute you depart.
MEET THE TEAM
Travel Associates Toorak