Following a whirlwind globe-trotting year-long trip around the world, one of the country’s best-liked travel industry insiders, Michelle Riel has authored a book celebrating the joys of travel, launching it at Melbourne’s Crown Promenade Hotel.


Travel author Michelle Riel and Crown Promenade Hotel’s general manager, Greg Moore.  

Guests were invited to wear or bring something from their favourite destination to the sparkling launch event at Crown Promenade Hotel’s famous Tonic Bar.

Crown Promenade Hotel’s general manager, Greg Moore acted as Master of Ceremonies and a raffle and auction were held to raise much-needed funds for some of the worthy children’s charities that Michelle encountered during her travels in Peru, the Philippines, Cambodia and Australia.

‘Excess Luggage’ is equal parts travelogue and photos. Following her travels, Michelle Riel was inspired to create this book with all proceeds benefitting children’s charities that made a lasting impression on her as she collected stamps on her passport from every corner of the globe.

Crown Promenade Hotel’s lobby will also be hosting an exhibit featuring images from Excess Luggage until Sunday 4 November.