Karen Merricks has never been about traditional ideas of success – she’s helped reshape them! When she and her husband Roy started MTA over 25 years ago, it came from something many women will understand: wanting to put family first and step away from the pressure of a busy retail travel store.

A quarter of a century later, Karen and Roy have sold MTA to Helloworld, but the company’s purpose hasn’t shifted. Long before working from home was mainstream, Karen created a way for women to build a thriving travel career from anywhere. In an industry where caring responsibilities still fall predominantly to women, she built a model that offered real freedom, flexibility and a chance to earn fair money. It changed lives then, and it’s still doing that today.

Even as MTA has grown, the mission hasn’t wavered: to put people first and support advisors – especially women – to build a business that fits the life they want.

Karen took a simple idea and turned it into a success story that’s empowered thousands. And now, her name sits proudly alongside some of the biggest names in travel on this year’s Power List – recognition that couldn’t be more deserved.

Congratulations, Karen! 👏👏👏

https://travelweekly.com.au/the-2025-women-in-travel-power-list-is-here/

Heads up, travellers: Virgin Australia is changing its carry-on baggage rules. From 2 February 2026, the standard carry-on allowance will become 8 kg.

Why the change?

Virgin says the update is about simplifying things, improving safety, reducing boarding delays and making better use of overhead space.

What the new baggage rules look like

Here’s the breakdown under the refreshed policy.

Economy Class

• One main carry-on bag, up to 8 kg

• Plus one small personal item (handbag, laptop bag, or small backpack) that fits under the seat in front

Premium / Velocity / Business / Economy X

• Two carry-on bags, with a combined total of up to 14 kg

• One piece may weigh up to 8 kg

• Plus one personal item, same under-seat rules as above

Infant & other allowances

• A collapsible stroller counts as one standard carry-on item (must fit size limits: 56 × 36 × 23 cm)

• Adults travelling with infants can bring one extra small personal item (say, a nappy bag)

• And yes — guests with infants can still check in up to three infant items free of charge.

Size (dimensions) for personal items

• Maximum dimensions: 45 cm × 33 cm × 20 cm (must fit under the seat in front)

When & how this applies

• The new rules apply to all travel on or after 2 February 2026.

The High Achievers’ lunches are a key part of MTA’s ongoing commitment to recognising excellence within its nationwide network of travel Advisors. The program celebrates Advisors who consistently deliver exceptional service, demonstrate strong business performance and contribute to the growth and success of MTA.

This year, the annual events brought together MTA’s leading advisors at some of Australia’s most celebrated dining destinations, in Perth at the Ritz Carlton, Melbourne at Farmer’s Daughters, Sydney at the Shangri-La, Gold Coast at QT and Adelaide at Greek on Halifax.

Pictured: High achievers in Gold Coast with MTA Co-Founder Karen Merricks (L-R)  James Irving, Karen Merricks – MTA Co-founder, Jason Denisenko and Nicola Irving.Don Beattie, CEO of MTA – Mobile Travel Agents, who was in attendance at most events, said the lunches were an opportunity to acknowledge the dedication, expertise and exceptional results of the company’s most successful Advisors.

“These lunches are about celebrating excellence within our advisor network and providing a platform for our leadership team to connect directly with those who consistently deliver at the highest level,” Beattie said.

“Our network continues to deliver outstanding results for clients across Australia, and our average total travel value (TTV) per Advisor is up 6.4% in FY 24/25 compared to the previous financial year. It’s an outstanding reflection of the skill, service and commitment our Advisors bring to their clients and their businesses every single day. Our High Achievers are achieving this and more, and we’re so proud that more than 160 of them have hit this benchmark this year.”

Each lunch was attended by the team’s Business Success Managers, with Co-founder Karen Merricks joining a number of events to celebrate the advisors’ achievements and personally recognise their outstanding contributions.

Pictured: High achievers in Melbourne and Perth

Katrina Carichini, MTA – Mobile Travel Agent, one of the High Achievers recognised this year said it was her first time attending one of the lunches.

“It was such a wonderful experience to share with my colleagues. The event gave us a chance to reflect on the achievements of the past year and celebrate our individual and collective success.. I’m especially grateful to our wonderful clients for their continued trust and support. Being recognised in this way fills me with pride to be part of the MTA family.”

“Our platinum agents – there are now over 90 of them – are earning really big incomes.”

When reflecting on the birth and rise of MTA – Mobile Travel Agents, Merricks looks back like one would on the growth of a family – with much pride.

“It’s been a quarter of a century, but it seems like yesterday when we launched,” she remarks.

“We set out to have a company that values people and family… and I feel we’ve created that – a business that upholds family values and a company full of the most amazing people.”

It’s a family affair

At the 2024 MTA – Mobile Travel Agents national conference in Fiji, I was struck by the genuine warmth and camaraderie within the organisation – it felt like one big travel family. It’s an atmosphere I expect will endure.

“We really love being together and catching up. I am so proud of MTA and the people we have around us,” Karen explains.

“All of our head office team, our brilliant advisors and our supplier connections.”

With Merricks experiencing a difficult few months late last year on a personal level (Karen lost her beloved sister to bowel cancer in 2024), she stresses how important it is to “hold those we love close and cherish our time together”.

“I don’t feel business should be any different,” Merricks says.

“It’s about caring support and enjoying the ups and downs of life.”

MTA for mums

Merricks, together with husband and business partner Roy, started MTA as a way to help women – especially those with children – undertake a more fulfilling journey in the travel industry. They also wanted to support women in rejoining the workforce. And it stemmed from Karen’s own experiences.

“Flexible hours was a big issue. You don’t want to miss out on kids’ events, like Christmas plays and sports carnivals,” Karen says.

“So I needed access remotely to my own GDS system, not through the office where I had to keep calling to go and do my work, which was a half-hour drive for me just to go and book a domestic ticket. That just wasn’t workable.

“I wanted to be able to work from a home office; do my work when I wanted… and then be able to get the kids and work again in the evening because it suited me to do that.

“So we talked about it at length. And then Roy, said, ‘well, ifyouwant it, everyone wants it’.”

It turns out a lot of travel professionals actually did. But it wasn’t simple, as Roy puts it, “because none of the systems were there”.

“Only about a third of travel agents even had an email!” Roy explains, about the lack of digital systems that we now take for granted.

After doing their homework on remote set-ups already in existence in places like the US, they were ready to go on 18 February 2000.

True to its family-oriented ethos, even the Merricks’ children Ben and Sara got involved in the business from the start – especially on the digital side of things.

“It was controversial, but once we launched, we just knew it was going to work,” Karen says.

Unless you call earning big money controversial, it’s hardly contentious any more.

“And these guys [members] are happy because they have freedom, they have flexibility; they work around their families.”

Long may that happiness continue. Happy birthday MTA – Mobile Travel Agents!

First published on KarryOn – Mark Harada

For the intrepid traveller, expedition cruising offers the ultimate adventure. Unlike traditional cruises, which focus on popular destinations and onboard entertainment, expedition cruises take you to remote and untouched corners of the world. From the icy landscapes of Antarctica to the rugged coastlines of the Arctic, these cruises are designed for those who crave exploration and a deeper connection with nature. In this blog, we’ll dive into what makes expedition cruising so thrilling and why it’s the perfect choice for adventurers.

What is expedition cruising?

Expedition cruising is a unique form of travel that combines the comforts of a cruise with the excitement of exploring remote destinations. These cruises typically operate on smaller ships, allowing access to areas that larger vessels cannot reach. The focus is on immersing passengers in the natural environment, with activities such as kayaking, hiking, and wildlife watching. Expedition cruises often include a team of experts, such as marine biologists and naturalists, who provide insights into the ecosystems and cultures encountered along the way.

Whether you’re navigating the icy waters of Antarctica or exploring the rainforests of the Amazon, expedition cruising offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the wonders of the world up close.

Destinations: where will expedition cruising take you?

One of the most exciting aspects of expedition cruising is the variety of destinations available. These cruises are designed to take you off the beaten path, offering access to some of the world’s most remote and pristine locations.

• Antarctica: Journey to the bottom of the world and witness breathtaking ice formations, penguin colonies, and seals in their natural habitat.
• Arctic: Explore the polar bear’s domain as you navigate the icy waters of the Arctic, with opportunities to see whales, seals, and stunning glacial landscapes.
• Galápagos Islands: Discover the unique wildlife of the Galápagos, where you can snorkel with sea lions, hike volcanic landscapes, and observe giant tortoises in their natural environment.
• Amazon River: Cruise through the heart of the Amazon rainforest, encountering exotic wildlife, indigenous communities, and the lush biodiversity of this incredible ecosystem.

Each destination offers a unique experience, with the chance to explore some of the most unspoiled environments on Earth.

The onboard experience: comfort meets adventure

While expedition cruises are all about adventure, they don’t compromise on comfort. These cruises typically feature smaller, more intimate ships with luxurious amenities. After a day of exploration, you can return to your ship and enjoy gourmet dining, comfortable cabins, and expert-led lectures that deepen your understanding of the destinations you’re visiting.

• Expert guides: Onboard experts, including naturalists, historians, and marine biologists, provide valuable insights into the regions you explore.
• Flexible itineraries: Expedition cruises often have flexible itineraries, allowing for spontaneous changes based on weather conditions or wildlife sightings.
• Adventure activities: From kayaking and snorkelling to guided hikes and Zodiac excursions, these cruises offer a range of activities that immerse you in the natural environment.

Expedition cruising is the perfect blend of adventure and luxury, offering an unforgettable travel experience.

Conclusion: why choose expedition cruising?

Expedition cruising is more than just a holiday; it’s a journey of discovery. For those who seek to explore the world’s most remote and extraordinary places, there’s no better way to travel. With a focus on sustainability, education, and adventure, expedition cruising offers a unique and enriching experience that will stay with you long after the voyage is over.

Call to Action: Ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today to book your expedition cruise and start planning your journey to the world’s most extraordinary destinations.

Choosing the right cruise itinerary can make all the difference in your travel experience. With so many destinations and routes available, it’s essential to find one that matches your interests and travel style. Whether you’re seeking a sun-soaked Caribbean escape, a cultural immersion in the Mediterranean, or an adventurous journey through Alaska, there’s a perfect cruise for everyone. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of selecting the ideal itinerary for your dream holiday.

Understanding cruise itineraries

A cruise itinerary is essentially the route that your cruise ship will take, including the ports of call and the duration of your stay at each destination. When choosing an itinerary, it’s important to consider what type of experience you’re looking for. Are you interested in exploring multiple cities and cultures, or do you prefer spending more time at sea, relaxing and enjoying the ship’s amenities?

Cruise itineraries vary greatly, from short weekend getaways to extended journeys that span several weeks. Understanding your travel preferences and what you want to get out of your cruise will help you choose the perfect itinerary.

Top cruise destinations and itineraries

There’s a cruise itinerary for every type of traveller, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment. Here are some of the most popular cruise destinations and the itineraries that showcase them:

• Caribbean: A classic choice for sun-seekers, Caribbean cruises offer a mix of beautiful beaches, vibrant cultures, and exciting shore excursions. Popular itineraries include the Eastern Caribbean (St. Thomas, St. Maarten), Western Caribbean (Jamaica, Cozumel), and Southern Caribbean (Aruba, Barbados).
• Mediterranean: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Europe with a Mediterranean cruise. Explore ancient ruins in Greece, enjoy the cuisine of Italy, or relax on the stunning beaches of Spain. Popular itineraries include Western Mediterranean (Barcelona, Rome) and Eastern Mediterranean (Athens, Istanbul).
• Alaska: For nature lovers, an Alaskan cruise offers breathtaking scenery, wildlife encounters, and outdoor adventure. Itineraries typically include stops in Juneau, Skagway, and Glacier Bay, with opportunities for whale watching, hiking, and exploring glaciers.
• Norwegian Fjords: Experience the dramatic landscapes of Norway’s fjords with a cruise through this stunning region. Popular itineraries include stops in Bergen, Geiranger, and Flam, offering spectacular views and opportunities for outdoor activities.

Each destination offers a unique experience, so consider what appeals to you most when choosing your itinerary.

Factors to consider when choosing an itinerary

When selecting a cruise itinerary, there are several factors to keep in mind to ensure you choose the right one for your needs:

• Travel dates: Consider the time of year you’ll be travelling, as this can affect the weather, crowds, and availability of certain destinations.
• Cruise duration: How long do you want to be away? Shorter cruises are great for a quick getaway, while longer cruises allow for more in-depth exploration.
• Ports of call: Look at the ports included in the itinerary and think about what activities and experiences you want to have at each destination.
• Onboard experience: Consider the type of cruise ship and the onboard amenities offered. Some itineraries focus more on the destination, while others offer plenty of time to enjoy the ship’s facilities.

By taking these factors into account, you can choose an itinerary that perfectly matches your travel preferences.

Conclusion: make the most of your cruise holiday

Choosing the right cruise itinerary is key to having an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re exploring the sun-soaked beaches of the Caribbean or the historic cities of the Mediterranean, the right itinerary will ensure you get the most out of your cruise experience.

Call to Action: Ready to chart your course? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today to book your dream cruise and start planning your perfect itinerary.

Packing for your first cruise can be both exciting and daunting. With limited space in your cabin and a variety of activities on board and ashore, it’s important to pack smartly. Whether you’re cruising through the tropics or exploring the fjords, having the right essentials will ensure you’re prepared for anything. In this blog, we’ll share tips on how to pack like a pro, so you can enjoy a stress-free and well-prepared cruise experience.

The basics: what to pack for a cruise

When packing for a cruise, it’s important to start with the basics. These are the essential items you’ll need to ensure your comfort and convenience during your trip:

• Travel documents: Make sure to bring your passport, cruise tickets, travel insurance, and any necessary visas or vaccination certificates.
• Clothing: Pack versatile clothing that can be layered and mixed and matched. Include casual wear for daytime, formal wear for evening dinners, and swimwear for poolside relaxation. Don’t forget a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings.
• Footwear: Bring comfortable walking shoes for exploring ports, sandals for the pool, and dress shoes for formal nights.
• Toiletries: While most cruise lines provide basic toiletries, it’s a good idea to bring your own, especially if you have specific preferences. Pack travel-sized shampoo, conditioner, toothpaste, and any other personal care items you use daily. Don’t forget sunscreen and after-sun lotion, as well as any medications you may need.
• Accessories: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. A small, portable bag for excursions, as well as a camera or smartphone for capturing memories, are also useful.
• Electronic devices: Don’t forget chargers for your devices, including phones, tablets, and cameras. A power strip or multi-port USB charger can be handy if you have multiple devices.

Special considerations for your cruise

Different cruises have different requirements and opportunities. Here are some additional items you might need depending on your itinerary:

• Formal wear: If your cruise has formal nights or special events, pack appropriate formalwear such as a suit or evening gown. Check the cruise line’s dress code in advance to ensure you’re prepared.
• Activewear: For cruises with a focus on fitness or adventure, such as those with hiking or sports activities, bring suitable activewear and gear.
• Seasickness remedies: If you’re prone to seasickness, consider packing remedies such as motion sickness tablets or wristbands.

Packing tips and tricks

• Roll your clothes: Rolling clothes rather than folding can save space and reduce wrinkles.
• Use packing cubes: These can help organise your belongings and maximise space in your suitcase.
• Pack a day bag: A small, foldable bag for day trips and excursions can be very handy. It should be easy to carry and pack away.

Enjoy a smooth and enjoyable cruise

With the right packing strategy, you can ensure that you have everything you need for a memorable and enjoyable cruise experience. By bringing the essentials and preparing for special needs, you’ll be able to relax and focus on making the most of your voyage.

Ready to set sail on your first cruise? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today for expert advice and assistance with planning your cruise and packing like a pro.

 DOWNLOAD eBook

What’s Inside the E-book?

• Understanding the Environmental Impact of Cruising
• Learn about the industry’s environmental challenges and the steps being taken to reduce its impact.
• Sustainable Practices in the Cruise Industry
• Discover how cruise lines are adopting green technologies and practices, from hybrid engines to recycling programs.
• Sustainable River, Ocean, Luxury, and Expedition Cruising
• Explore how different cruise types are implementing eco-friendly standards and what you can expect on board.
• Practical tips for reducing your footprint, supporting local communities, and choosing the right cruise line.

As awareness of environmental issues grows, more travellers are seeking ways to reduce their impact on the planet. This shift in consumer behaviour has led to a significant rise in sustainable cruising, where eco-friendly practices are at the forefront of the travel experience. Cruise lines are responding to this demand by implementing innovative technologies and practices to reduce their environmental footprint. In this blog, we’ll explore the various ways the cruise industry is going green and how you can be a part of this positive change.

What is sustainable cruising?

Sustainable cruising refers to the adoption of eco-friendly practices within the cruise industry, aimed at minimising environmental impact. This includes reducing carbon emissions, managing waste responsibly, and protecting marine ecosystems. Cruise lines are increasingly adopting measures such as using cleaner fuels, implementing energy-efficient systems, and investing in technologies that reduce pollution. For example, many new ships are powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG), which significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional marine fuels.

Sustainable cruising not only benefits the environment but also enhances the travel experience by providing passengers with a guilt-free way to explore the world.

Innovations in eco-friendly cruise technology

The cruise industry has made significant strides in adopting new technologies that support sustainable cruising. From advanced wastewater treatment systems to energy-efficient ship designs, these innovations are helping to reduce the environmental impact of cruising.

• cleaner fuels: many cruise lines are transitioning to LNG, which burns cleaner than traditional marine fuels and significantly reduces carbon emissions.
• energy efficiency: modern cruise ships are equipped with energy-saving technologies such as LED lighting, solar panels, and optimised hull designs to reduce fuel consumption.
• waste management: cruise ships are now equipped with state-of-the-art waste treatment systems that recycle and reduce waste, minimising the amount that ends up in landfills or the ocean.

Eco-friendly cruises are not just about reducing emissions; they’re also about adopting sustainable practices that protect the oceans and marine life.

How cruise lines are supporting marine conservation

In addition to reducing their environmental impact, many cruise lines are actively involved in marine conservation efforts. This includes partnerships with environmental organisations, support for marine research, and initiatives to protect endangered species.

• marine sanctuaries: some cruise lines have committed to avoiding sensitive marine areas or participating in the creation and maintenance of marine sanctuaries.
• educational programmes: onboard programmes educate passengers about marine ecosystems and the importance of conservation.
• sustainable shore excursions: many cruise lines now offer shore excursions that are designed to have minimal environmental impact, supporting local communities and promoting conservation efforts.

Responsible tourism is at the heart of sustainable cruising, with many cruise lines taking active steps to protect the oceans and the wildlife that calls them home.

How you can contribute to sustainable cruising

As a passenger, you have the power to contribute to sustainable cruising by making eco-friendly choices during your voyage. Here are a few tips to ensure your cruise is as green as possible:

• choose a green cruise line: Look for cruise lines that have strong sustainability credentials and are committed to reducing their environmental impact.
• pack responsibly: Bring reusable items like water bottles and shopping bags to reduce plastic waste.
• respect marine life: Follow guidelines during shore excursions to avoid disturbing wildlife and natural habitats.
• support local communities: Opt for shore excursions that benefit local economies and contribute to conservation efforts.

By making mindful choices, you can help support sustainable cruising and ensure that future generations can enjoy the wonders of the ocean.

Sustainable cruising is more than just a trend—it’s the future of travel. As cruise lines continue to innovate and prioritise the environment, travellers can look forward to exploring the world in a way that’s both luxurious and responsible. By choosing eco-friendly cruises and making sustainable choices, you can play a part in protecting our planet for future generations.

Ready to set sail on a sustainable adventure? Contact MTA Travel Advisors today to book your eco-friendly cruise and start planning your journey towards a greener future.

“These celebrations are a reflection of the exceptional talent and dedication of the people we have at MTA,” said Karen Merricks, co-Managing Director/Founder. “I’m incredibly proud of our High Achievers and the way they continue to set the standard for excellence. While we’ve had a record-breaking TTV this year and that’s certainly worth celebrating, our primary focus remains on supporting our advisors in enhancing their individual performance and yield.”

As part of MTA’s Reward and Recognition program, each celebration featured an invite only lunch and a chance to reflect on the successes of the past year. This year also marked a milestone for MTA as the company also celebrated a record year with Total Transaction Value (TTV) up over 56% compared to 2019 and over 42% compared to the previous record 2022/23 year, reflecting continued growth and success.

“Being recognised as a High Achiever within a network of more than 440 is an honour,” said one of MTA’s QLD based high achievers. “MTA’s ongoing support and the chance to get together and celebrate with other MTAs makes us feel like we’re truly part of a big MTA family”.

These celebrations not only honour the achievements of MTA’s top Advisors but also highlight the MTA family values that have been upheld for over 24 years as Australia’s original mobile travel network. With the Darwin celebration set for next month, the festivities continue as they celebrate the remarkable success of MTA Advisors nationwide.

Find out more about running your own travel business with MTA – Mobile Travel Agents