Travel Guides Stars Reveal How a Chance Ad Launched Their TV Journey

Couple Reflect on Decade of Globetrotting and Unexpected Fame

A casual suggestion and a leap of faith transformed the retirement plans of Kevin Maloney and Janetta Stones, propelling them into the spotlight as beloved stars of the Nine Network’s Travel Guides. Their story highlights how a simple advertisement can change lives, and how embracing the unexpected can lead to incredible adventures.

From Tourism Pros to TV Personalities

It all began in October 2015 when Janetta spotted an ad seeking travel enthusiasts willing to dedicate three months to a new television program. At the time, both she and Kevin had recently retired from long careers in the travel industry—working for airlines and in tourism—and were looking forward to a more relaxed pace of life. Initially, Kevin was skeptical.

“No, don’t be ridiculous. Why would they want us?”

Despite his initial reservations, Janetta persisted, submitting a video application filmed with a friend’s iPad. The application included a lighthearted look at their retirement budget, prioritizing travel and wine. Their unique perspective and genuine enthusiasm clearly resonated with producers.

Since then, the pair, affectionately dubbed “travel snobs” by fans, have filmed over 75 episodes, documenting their journeys across the globe. According to Statista, the global tourism industry generated approximately $7.6 trillion in revenue in 2023, demonstrating the enduring appeal of travel and exploration. Statista

A Lifelong Partnership Forged Through Travel

Kevin and Janetta’s connection extends far beyond the television screen. They first met in 1986 while working for Trans Australia Airlines (TAA), a now-defunct Australian airline. Kevin was in Human Resources, and Janetta worked in sales. Their shared passion for travel quickly blossomed into a romance, leading to a wedding just six months later.

Sadly, the only remaining photos from their 1987 wedding were captured by family and friends, as all the proofs were stolen before they could create an album. Despite this mishap, the couple cherish the memories of their special day, which included a cocktail reception at a venue later destroyed in a fire.

Looking Ahead

Kevin and Janetta attribute their enduring relationship to their shared interests and ability to see eye-to-eye. They emphasize that even with individual personalities, they operate as a unified team, rarely disagreeing. While Travel Guides has brought them immense joy, they affirm that their lives would remain filled with travel and adventure, even without the show.

Currently, the couple are preparing for a trip to Hong Kong and China, escaping the Melbourne winter. They recently returned from a 10-day excursion to New Zealand and a spontaneous road trip to Queensland, demonstrating their continued love for exploration. Applications are now open for the 2026 season of Travel Guides. Apply now