When the curtains close on a season of a popular travel show, it often feels like the end of an exciting adventure—not just for viewers but also for the cast and crew who have poured months into bringing these journeys to life. But here’s where it gets interesting: behind the scenes, a lot happens that most viewers never get to see, and those secrets are finally coming to light. The recent wrap-up of filming for Season 9 of “Travel Guides” isn’t just about the end of a filming cycle; it’s a story full of dedication, behind-the-scenes camaraderie, and the personal lives of the travelers when they’re not in front of the cameras.
After six months of globe-trotting and capturing incredible destinations, the production team has officially concluded their filming schedule. Fans of Matt and Brett, two of the show’s most beloved personalities, shared their excitement openly on Instagram, announcing, "That’s a wrap for us on filming for the upcoming season of Travel Guides!" They expressed their eagerness to share their latest adventures later in the year, building anticipation among their followers. Naturally, viewers are curious: How long do these guides actually spend traveling? And what do they do once the filming wraps up?
The answer varies each season based on several factors—their schedules, the chosen travel spots, and the filming plan. Generally speaking, filming blocks tend to last between four and six months, with the crew dedicating around a week or so to capture all the footage needed for each destination. After completing a trip, guides and crew often get a few weeks off to rest, recharge, and reconnect with their home lives. Occasionally, they might film multiple trips consecutively if the destinations are close or if the production schedule allows.
What do the travel guides do when they’re not on camera? Surprisingly, despite the demanding nature of the schedule—which includes early mornings and packed itineraries—their time off between shoots allows for a breath of fresh air. During these breaks, many of the guides return to their everyday lives, whether that’s returning to full-time jobs, tending to personal projects, or simply enjoying some well-deserved downtime.
For example, married couple Matt and Brett return to Newcastle after filming, with Brett resuming his role as a primary school teacher. Although filming often disrupts their routine, Brett appreciates the support from his school community, many of whom are excited about his adventures on TV. He shares that the experience is truly rewarding, especially knowing that the show is well-loved by his workplace.
Then there are Kevin and Janetta, retired and loving life back in Maldon, Victoria. They dedicate their free time to gardening, reading, hosting friends, and giddily planning spontaneous road trips—a clear sign that the travel bug is alive and well for them. Their simple pleasures are punctuated with exciting adventures beyond the screen.
The Fren siblings—Victoria, Jono, and their respective partners—are another example. After filming, they quickly return to daily life in Newcastle or their hometowns. Victoria and her partner Nathan recently celebrated the arrival of their new labradoodle, Cosmo, while Jono and his partner Danielle are preparing for the upcoming birth of their first grandchild, adding a layer of personal excitement to their already busy lives.
Meanwhile, best friends Karly and Bri often feel emotional when filming ends, as they are about to part ways and head back to different states—Karly to Perth, where she returns to her hairdressing career and her boyfriend Jett, and Bri to Sydney to focus on her role managing a disability scheme. Their friendship remains strong despite physical distance, illustrating the close bonds formed during their shared journey.
And what about Kev, Dorian, and Teng? These three friends share an unbreakable bond—they’re more than just travel companions; they work together as behind-the-scenes crew for shows like “The Block” in Melbourne when filming isn’t happening. Their friendship extends into ventures like brand partnerships and content creation, showcasing how their connection is both personal and professional. Dorian even takes time out now and then to visit his girlfriend Camille, proving that their friendships and relationships continue to flourish beyond the camera lights.
So, while the filming schedule is intense, it’s only part of their story. Once the cameras stop rolling, these guides step back into everyday life, often with new stories and fresh perspectives to bring to their next adventure or project. The behind-the-scenes hidden truths reveal a lively mixture of dedication, personal growth, friendships, and continued passion for travel—elements that truly define the spirit of “Travel Guides.
Are you surprised by what happens behind the scenes? Do you think balancing such an intense filming schedule with personal lives is sustainable? Or would you say there’s a secret struggle that fans don’t see? Join the conversation below and share your thoughts—because stories like these spark lively debates about the true cost and reward of living your dream on the road.
