Chantel Smuts
I'm based in
Allens Nek
Looking for help with your business travel? Find out how I can help here
It's Nice To Meet You
Welcome, my name is Chantel and I am your personal Travel Counsellor.
I live in Allen’s Nek in Johannesburg, however I’m a Capetonian born and bred.
I have over 20 years of experience in the travel industry and I joined Travel Counsellors in 2016, where I have started my own travel franchise. I have gained invaluable knowledge over the years by taking on leadership roles and learning all aspects of the travel industry. This knowledge will benefit you, my client, as I take on the responsibility of ensuring that I not only meet but exceed your expectations. No detail is too small!
I have personally travelled to the United Kingdom, Mauritius, Kuala Lumpur, Las Vegas, Paris, Amsterdam, Bali, Dubai, India, Thailand, Malawi, Uganda, Cancun, Australia, Croatia and throughout beautiful South Africa.
I have experience in travel from family holidays, honeymoons, business travel, group bookings, organised tours, school and sports tours and anything to do with travel. I have learnt that no query in this industry is the same and I love the challenge of putting together an itinerary that I have never done before.
I love being a Travel Counsellor because I can offer my clients the best service by working out of the comfort of my home all the while giving them the full attention that they desire. I will go the extra mile to ensure that no detail has been forgotten. I have access to deals at very competitive prices – no matter where you want to travel to.
My loyal clients speak with praise and satisfaction for the memories they cherish on the vacation trips that we planned together. It would be my pleasure to offer my services and to create your lifetime memories by planning your unique dream holiday!
Travel guides
Explore my guides and blogs
Magical Christmas Getaways: Best Places to Travel to Over the Holidays
Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and wonder, and what better way to embrace the festive spirit than by exploring enchanting destinations around the world? Whether you're seeking snowy winter wonderlands or tropical escapes with a holiday twist, this travel blog will guide you through the best places to visit over Christmas time. Vienna, Austria Vienna transforms into a fairytale city duri
29 Sept 2023 5 min read
10 Must-Visit Destinations in Your 20s: A Traveller's Bucket List
Your 20s are a time of exploration, self-discovery, and adventure. It's the perfect decade to spread your wings and explore the world. Whether you're seeking breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant cities, or cultural experiences, there are countless destinations waiting to be discovered. In this travel blog, we'll take you on a journey to 10 incredible places that every twenty-something travelle
28 Sept 2023 5 min read
October's Delight: Exploring the Best Places to Visit
October is a magical time of the year when nature paints the world in hues of red, orange, and gold, and the air becomes crisp and invigorating. It's the perfect month for travelers seeking a blend of autumnal beauty, cultural experiences, and delightful weather. In this travel blog, we'll take you on a journey to some of the best places to visit in October, each offering its unique charm and expe
28 Sept 2023 5 min read
Indulging in Opulence: A Luxurious Journey Around the World
Welcome to a world where extravagance knows no bounds, and luxury is the only way to travel. In this travel blog, I invite you to embark on a whirlwind adventure filled with opulence, grandeur, and unparalleled experiences. From lavish accommodations to gourmet dining, private yachts to exotic destinations, join me as we explore the pinnacle of luxury travel. The Art of Arrival The journey begins
19 Sept 2023 5 min read
Travel Tips for First-Time Travellers
Traveling for the first time can be an exhilarating and sometimes overwhelming experience. Whether you're jetting off to a new country or exploring a neighbouring city, careful planning and a few savvy travel tips can make your journey smoother and more enjoyable. In this travel blog, we'll share some essential advice for first-time travellers to ensure that your trip is a memorable one. 1. Plan
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
Jet Lag Survival Guide: Conquer Time Zones and Explore the World
Jet lag: the dreaded side effect of long-haul travel. We've all been there, stepping off a plane and feeling like a zombie as our bodies struggle to adjust to a new time zone. But fear not, fellow travellers, because in this blog, I'll be sharing some tried-and-true tips on how to survive and even thrive despite the clutches of jet lag. With these strategies, you can make the most of your adventur
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
Romantic Escapes: Top Destinations for Couples
There's no better way to strengthen your bond with your loved one than by embarking on a romantic getaway together. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, rekindling the flame, or just seeking a break from the daily grind, the world is filled with enchanting destinations perfect for couples. In this travel blog, we'll take you on a journey to discover some of the most captivating and roman
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
The Best Places to Take Pictures for Social Media Around the World
In today's digital age, our wanderlust often leads us to picturesque destinations that serve as the perfect backdrop for our social media feeds. From stunning landscapes to vibrant urban landscapes, the world is filled with enchanting places that are simply made for sharing. Join me on a virtual journey as we explore some of the best places to take pictures for social media across the globe. Sant
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
Blooming Adventures: Springtime in South Africa
As winter fades away, South Africa comes alive with a burst of colour, energy, and life. Spring in this beautiful country is a magical time when the landscape transforms into a kaleidoscope of wildflowers, lush greenery, and vibrant wildlife. Join me on a journey through South Africa during spring, where we'll explore its diverse landscapes, encounter incredible wildlife, and savour the unique fla
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
Introducing our app: myTC
I know how important your personal Travel Counsellor is to you for all of your travel plans. And now you can even take me on holiday with you – in a virtual sense anyway! myTC is a personal extension of myself, your personal Travel Counsellor that will always be with you, wherever you are in the world. How does the myTC app work? myTC provides personalised information about all of your bookings,
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
5 of the best destinations with black sand beaches
Here are some of the world’s best destinations that are also home to black sand beaches. While they are certainly unusual, many of them are worth a visit, whether you’re topping up your tan, feeling the cool Atlantic breeze or are just looking for something different to do on your next holiday. Iceland Reynisfjara is a world-famous black sand beach found on the South Coast of Iceland. Created by
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
10 Australian experiences every traveller should include
Australia richly rewards visitors to it's shores. If you're not taken in by the cosmopolitan cities, art, culture, or foodie scene, the breathtaking natural beauty will certainly enchant you. But because of its size, it's difficult to know where to start exploring. We’ve looked at some of the must-sees and -dos in this thrilling part of the world. Beach hop along the west coast The west has some
14 Sept 2023 5 min read
Your Wedding Gift Registry with Travel Counsellors
Are you getting married? Our exclusive Weddings and Honeymoon Gift Registry service might be just for you. An easy, stress-free way to manage your dream wedding and honeymoon online - courtesy of your personal Travel Counsellor. Our Honeymoon Gift Registry service allows your guests to give you the most memorable gift of all – your dream honeymoon tailor-made down to the finest detail. You may
12 Sept 2023 5 min read
Inspirational travel podcasts for your drive home
In a world that thrives on constant connectivity, where information travels at the speed of light, there is an ever-growing desire to escape the ordinary and seek out the extraordinary. It's in these moments of wanderlust that inspirational travel podcasts can become the spark to encourage curious travellers to start planning their own journeys of discovery. These podcasts are not just about cre
12 Sept 2023 5 min read
THE CAPITAL MIRAGE
I had the pleasure to visit The Capital Mirage while I was in Cape Town in July 2021. The location of this property is just perfect. It is located in the uber-trendy De Waterkant area. There is complimentary underground secure parking for all guests. For those guests without their vehicles, they offer complimentary scheduled shuttle services to the V&A Waterfront and the CTICC. Due to us bei
04 Aug 2021 5 min read
ROADTRIP TO DRAKENSBERG
We started our journey at 5:30 am on Sunday and headed off in convoy to Aha Alpine Heath Resort. Leaving this time on the weekend is great because the roads are so quiet that it is a very pleasant drive. If we were to just drive straight through and not stop then we would be looking at an approximate travel time of 3h30 min, but after hearing about Thanda Tau from a friend we decided to make
08 Jan 2021 5 min read
IVORY MANOR BOUTIQUE HOTEL
Arriving at Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel, I was unsure of what to expect. I have to say I was so pleasantly surprised when I arrived. I certainly did not feel like I was in Pretoria. I received a warm welcome from the security gate. He escorted me and my 4-year-old to the entrance to ensure that we met up with the rest of our group. The Christmas decorations at the front entrance are framed by
06 Jan 2021 5 min read
ZANZIBAR
Zanzibar opened its borders to South African travellers on the 28th of November. I took the opportunity to brush up on my knowledge of the island, including some resorts. Some important things to take note of when travelling to Zanzibar during COVID: * No Quarantine is required * Mandatory negative PCR test upon arrival. (Not older than 72 hours.) * You will also need to do a PCR test in Zanz
24 Nov 2020 5 min read
KLEINE CONSTANTIA GUEST HOUSE VISIT
I found this unique boutique guest house in Weltevreden Park, Johannesburg because we needed a lovely setting to hold our supplier training and it certainly lived up to that. The Staff were all so warm and welcoming and they made sure that our every need was met. A table was set up on the porch so that we could enjoy the beautiful weather outside overlooking the immaculate gardens. After our t
23 Nov 2020 5 min read
BEST TIME IN MAURITIUS
One of the best months of the year to travel to Mauritius is in October, at the beginning of their summer. It is hot, but not too hot to handle being outside on the beach all day. The rain is much less over this period too, but don't worry about rain because it has tropical island weather. It will rain and shortly after the clouds will clear up and the sun will be back out in full force so you
07 Mar 2019 5 min read
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Getting back to business
Here's why you can rely on me, a Business Travel Counsellor to help you navigate a new travel landscape. I can help make your travel plans seamless.
04 Feb 2021
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Why use a Travel Counsellor
Let's plan your dream trip together
Tailor-made for you
Your holiday isn’t just a trip away. It’s a longed-for escape, time to reconnect with loved ones, or a dream adventure you never thought possible. That’s why I take the time to truly get to know you and understand your hopes and expectations, then use my experience, connections and passion for the destination to create a trip that makes those dreams a reality.
Personalised service. Always
When you plan a holiday with me, you’ll be given my personal mobile number from the very first call. I’ll listen to your thoughts and ideas like I would a friend and arrange accommodation, activities, and flights that are all personalised to you. And I’ll share my personal tips and recommendations, so you can experience the true beauty of each destination.
Stress-free travel, and more time for what matters most
I believe your time away should be stress-free, easy, and seamless from start to finish. So, I take care of all the details for you - from ATOL protection, insurance, and flexible payments to access to the myTC app, which keeps everything in one place.
Support when it matters most
If the unexpected happens, you can rest easy, knowing that I’ll handle any last-minute changes, flight cancellations, or disruptions before you even pick up the phone. So you always feel happy, carefree, and ready to make the most of every moment.
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