Meet your advisor
Donna Kranas
I’m passionate about planning seamless cruise journeys, matching travellers with the perfect ship, itinerary, and unforgettable shore experiences.
Travel experience: 34 years
Years with SJT: 1 year
Number of countries visited: 65
Where I shine:
• Luxury & expedition cruising (ocean & river)
• Complex itinerary planning
• Experiential travel
• Adventure travel
• Trending destinations for the Australian market
• Active tours
Contact details:
Phone: 07 3778 3849 (ext 4)
Email: [email protected]
The person behind the plans
What’s a destination you recommend after someone says they’ve ‘seen it all’?
That’s very exciting to me as I have travelled to many wonderful and unique destinations that are deeply immersive, relatively underexplored, and offer a genuine sense of discovery. As an example, think magical, mystical & very mountainous Bhutan high in the Himalayas– land of the Thunder Dragon. The Caucasus countries, ‘Stan’ countries, Albania, Antarctica and the Arctic also spring to mind to name a few.
I can offer a range of destinations depending on a client’s special interests, travel styles and fitness levels to destinations that I have travelled to that are ahead of the usual travel trend and will excite even the most world-weary traveller.
If your travel style were a hotel, what would it be — and what would the concierge say about you?
A beautifully restored heritage boutique hotel tucked down a cobblestone laneway — the kind where every stone has a story, and no two rooms are the same. I’m thinking
converted 17th century palazzo in Lecce, a romantic Kasbah set high in the Atlas Mountains of Morocco, a Rajasthani haveli complete with faded frescoes or a hilltop Castello in Umbria with vineyard views over rolling verdant hills.
Concierge – “Ah yes, our returning guest with the excellent taste in ruin and romance. They don’t need gloss — they want soul, character & culture. They'll be out at sunrise photographing temple shadows, back by noon for a glass of local wine, and dining with the locals, chatting with the cook in the family-run restaurant about regional cuisine and old family recipes by dusk. Being immersed and active is the key.”
Why do travellers say working with you makes all the diference?
I combine years of real-world experience, a sharp eye for detail, and a warm, personal approach.
I take the time to understand what matters to them, and I’m always looking for those special, one-of-a-kind experiences that turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.
With clear, prompt communication and genuine care, I make travel feel effortless, exciting, and uniquely theirs.
What are your top tips for responsible travel?
Support local artisans and businesses by purchasing souvenirs and products made by local craftspeople to support their livelihoods.
I take my own shopping bags for any purchases.
Travel during off-peak seasons to reduce the strain on local resources and infrastructure.
Travel slow, take your time and enjoy longer stays in one destination instead of rushing from place to place.
Opt for trains or buses over planes, and consider cycling or walking shorter distances. If flying is necessary, fly direct as possible.
What’s one thing you never travel without?
I always pack bubble wrap to protect any unique and fragile treasures that I purchase!
Kind words from happy travellers
We have very recently completed an overseas trip to Canada and Alaska. Donna Kranas of Sonia Jones Travel played an intimate role in planning, organising and assisting us in the extensive detail around our trip. Our vacation was a trip of a lifetime. We experienced some amazing locations and contrasting scenery throughout our travels. We sincerely appreciate the genuine and well-informed information provided to us by Donna from your company. Having relied on Donna's expertise in the past to put travel plans together, we had no hesitation in continuing our relationship with your firm. Donna's intimate knowledge of the destinations and attractions recommended made our trip that much more enjoyable. We look forward to our continued relationship.
I can highly recommend Donna Kranas from Sonia Jones Travel to organise any facet of your travel. Donna has great knowledge of the Travel Industry; this has made our holiday travels over the years so stress free and memorable. Donna has organised trips for us to Europe, China and Africa just to mention a few destinations. In some of these countries we have travelled with a personal guide on a tailored itinerary, taking in some wonderful locations and experiences which has made our holidays very special. Donna has exceptional communication skills, answering emails and phone calls promptly. Her communication stood out when we had a particular incident being a flight cancellation by airlines which were quickly rearranged by Donna. Thanks, Donna, for your wonderful planning and hard work over the years and we look forward to our next adventure .
Julia and I have had the great fortune that Donna has been our travel agent since 2001. Over the years we have travelled extensively by air, land and sea. Donna has organised everything. The last 20 years travel itineraries have been thoughtfully put together to suit our interests and there has never been any issues. Donna is the consummate professional and leaves nothing to chance. When you want knowledge combined with lived travel experience Donna is the one you can place your complete faith in. As long as we are able to keep travelling, Donna will always be our go to. Donna is one of the family. Our son is now a Donna convert. Thanks Donna for your guidance and support over the years. The memories you have enabled us to share are priceless. We value your friendship.
Where I’ve wandered
From taking in the sweeping views after the climb to Bhutan’s Tiger’s Nest, experiencing the famous Taj Mahal, cruising the Douro River in Portugal, expeditions to the Arctic Circle, and racing over the snow on a snowmobile in Norway – these are just a few of my favourite travel moments. I look forward to helping you make yours.