Based In Johannesburg

Melissa Ridley

Looking for help with your business travel? Find out how I can help here

It's Nice To Meet You

Welcome to My World of Travel!

Hi, I’m Melissa—call me Mel! With over 25 years of experience in the travel industry, I’m here to turn your travel dreams into unforgettable realities.

For me, travel is about more than visiting destinations; it’s about creating memories that warm your heart and bring a smile long after the trip is over. Whether it’s uncovering hidden gems, planning seamless itineraries, or adding those extra-special touches, I’m passionate about making every journey unique and meaningful.

From romantic getaways to family adventures, and everything in between, I tailor every detail to suit your preferences, so all you need to do is pack your bags and enjoy. While I’m based in the Northern Suburbs of Johannesburg, South Africa, distance is never an obstacle—I’m just a call or an email away, no matter where you are in the world.

Curious about what my clients have to say? Head over to the Testimonials tab to see what others have shared about their experiences traveling with my help. Their stories reflect my dedication to exceptional service.

Be sure to explore the special offers and other sections of my website, including corporate travel. Whether you're planning a relaxing escape or a detailed business trip, let’s make it extraordinary together. Your adventure awaits, and I’d love to help you every step of the way.

Let’s chat soon!
Mel

signature

My customer stories

Sent by Cheryl Simeonidis

I AM SO IMPRESSED WITH THE SERVICE I HAVE RECEIVED THUS FAR .... MEL LISTENS TO WHAT OUR NEEDS ARE & SHE GOES OUT OF HER WAY TO ACCOMODATE THIS NEED ... MEL IS SO FRIENDLY & NOTHING IS TO MUCH FOR HER ....

Sent by Justine Limpitlaw

Melissa is super responsive and I never feel "alone" when travelling. She sorts out problems right at the desk to board the plane if necessary. Her services are worth every penny.

Sent by Zelda Watkins

All I can say is 10 out of 10... Thank you Mel

Sent by Kathleen Mulholland

Great service from Melissa, she made it really easy for me.

Sent by Graham Warrender

10 out of 10 !!!

Sent by Gugu Sibiya

It was good and you are the best !!!

Sent by Lizle Austin

Melissa was very helpful, and she was patient while we tried to make up our minds.

Sent by Charlene Jansen

10 out of 10... Can't wait for our trip.... Thanks Mel

Sent by Jo Mitchley

Top Marks!!!! Melissa has been wonderful this will be my first time traveling and she has professionally guided me the entire way making me feel less stressed and relaxed knowing she will be there with me throughout on a very special trip for me.

Sent by Wanita Breet

Marks out of 10.... I give Mel 10...

Sent by Gareth Paul Gardner

We had a recent getaway and from start to finish, Mel's service, advice and communication with us was beyond all expectations. Further to that, we had a medical emergency after hours which required urgent travel changes etc and Mel was by our sides all the way! Many thanks Mel, we really appreciate your being available to us at that hour, for making the seemingly impossible possible in a very short space of time and for getting us home safely!

Sent by Margie Herbst

Top Marks - 10 out of 10

Sent by Gareth Gardner

10 out of 10 !!!

Sent by Philip Bradbury

10 out of 10.... Very happy with service from Mel

Sent by Karen Moran

10 out of 10.... Melissa has been absolutely amazing. She went the extra mile to make sure that my Trip will go off without a hitch.

Sent by Mr Mzwakhe

Great service and she always has got time to answer any questions you have about your trip.... I would definitely recommend for any other future trips I will take..

Sent by Laurie Pearse

10 out 10 Just wanted to say a big thank you for organizing our trip. Everything went amazingly well. Thank you ????????

Sent by Justine Limpitlaw

10 out of 10 Melissa is the best!

Sent by Melissa-Jane Da Silva

I cannot recommend Mel highly enough! It was such a pleasure working her and I applaud her for her quick turnaround times, friendliness and willingness to accommodate all my requests with such patience and professionalism. Thank you for everything Mel! We can’t wait for our trip ??

Sent by Michael Webster

If it were possible I would give a lot more than 10. Absolutely fabulous on both occasions. In those famous words "I will be back"

Sent by Marianne Fick

Mel, you’ve done an incredible job making the booking process so smooth and stress-free. Your attention to detail and ability to tailor everything to my needs were impressive. I would definitely recommend you to others. A well-deserved 9 out of 10!" Can't wait to get on our cruise in 2025! Thank you Marianne

Sent by Nicole Fritz

It was an absolute pleasure dealing with Melissa. She went above and beyond to assist us.

Sent by Gillian Habermann

Melli has been sorting out my travel arrangements for nearly 4 years now. I did it for 6 and drove myself crazy! No query is too much for Melli- with such speed, and so many options! And then there's the actual departure- check in, seats, assistance- SORTED. JUST THE BEST

Sent by Diane Southwood

I have worked closely with Mel on a large competition for a FMCG company, sending winners and chaperones to 8 different destinations around the world. Around 55 people travelling to various destinations around the world, including flights, accommodation, transfers, activities, visas etc all within a month. She has been an absolute pleasure to work with and is available to assist and change travel details at any time of the day. I highly recommend Mel for your travel arrangements. Dee Southwood Account Director

Sent by Hadil Alashwal

I had a great experience with Melissa. She was incredibly friendly and professional throughout the process of changing my booking. She made everything so smooth and stress-free. I truly appreciate her prompt assistance and dedication to ensuring my trip was perfectly arranged. Highly recommend her services!

Sent by Pia le Roux

Mel is great! She's enthusiastic and efficient and I like her a lot! She has helped us with our business travel and is always wiling to look for alternative routes and accommodation - nothing is too much for Mel!

Sent by Riona Rampath

Working with Mel for the past few years have been incredible. She tailor makes every trip according to what the client needs and goes above and beyond to ensure you are happy! Thank you Mel for your amazing service and warm smile. It's always a pleasure working with you. :)

Sent by Justine Limpitlaw

Melissa has become our travel agent of choice for business and family/holiday travel. One expects to receive a range of quotes/options on flights etc. from a travel agent, but Melissa stands out for the absolute sense of security about one's travel arrangements that dealing with her gives her clients. We know that if a flight is cancelled or there is a problem with a connecting flight, she is on the other end of the phone to sort it out. She takes the stress out of travel. Recently my fifteen year old daughter had to make an inter-continental flight alone. Melissa was so helpful in advising on which airlines made provision for minors to receive special care and supervision and in getting me all the relevant forms etc. I was kept informed by SMS at every stage of the journey, comforted in the knowledge that our child had boarded, deplaned, checked in for the next flight, arrived safely and had been handed over to the family friend collecting her at her final destination. Melissa has also helped us use the App which is a great way of having all your info in one place. She works miracles to make sure the family is seated together and the connections are never too short (or too long) for comfort. I also travel a lot of business and often need a range of quotes etc for clients to approve. Melissa's paperwork is impeccable. There are no silly date/scheduling errors and I know I can pass on her quotes etc with confidence. She also stays in touch as we fly, sending messages to check we are all OK and don't have any concerns that she might to address. I am sure that this is not part of her formal job description but it does make us feel like we are not travelling alone and that she is watching over us, as it were. It is, quite simply, fantastic customer service and we look forward to the next decades of travel with Melissa as our Travel Counsellor of choice.

Sent by Craig Young

Working with Mel, my travel agent, is an absolute pleasure! She makes the entire planning process stress-free and handles every detail with care and professionalism. From helping me choose the business travel to securing the best flights, Mel ensure nothing short of smooth. I couldn’t be happier with the service and personal attention I received. If you’re planning a trip, I highly recommend Mel for all your travel needs!- Craig Young

Sent by Kevin Mitchell

Testimonial for Mel, Travel Agent Extraordinaire: Working with Mel has been an absolute game-changer for my company and our clients. Over the years, she has consistently delivered exceptional service, making every trip seamless and stress-free. Whether it's booking flights, arranging accommodations, or managing last-minute changes, Mel is always ahead of the game. Her attention to detail and ability to anticipate our needs have saved us countless hours and ensured every journey goes off without a hitch. What truly sets Mel apart is her knack for securing the best rates without compromising on quality. She works tirelessly to find the perfect balance of comfort, convenience, and cost-effectiveness, ensuring we always get the best value for our travel budget. Her professionalism, dedication, and warm personality make her a joy to work with. Thanks to Mel, our travel experiences have been smoother, more enjoyable, and incredibly well-organized. We can’t thank her enough for her unwavering support and expertise. She is truly a travel agent in a league of her own.

Sent by Kirsten Singh

Wonderful experience booking with Melissa - she truly goes the extra mile! She really took the time to understand our needs. Highly recommend her!

Sent by Lee Potgieter

Melissa, is absolutely amazing. We have recommended Mel a few times.

Sent by Beverley Bailey

Melissa sorted out everything for me, would highly recommend her to anyone.

Sent by Kevin DAllende

10 out of 10.... Thank you

Sent by Layla Hassen

Mel is amazing and gives me a sense of security booking with her.

Sent by Stephen Bailey

Mel went the extra mile to accommodate our requirements Weekend work Thank you

Sent by Margaret Brocklehurst

10 out 10. Melissa You are definitely a number 10!!

Sent by Vivienne Prohn

Love your work! Great recommendations, so much patience with clients taking long to make up their minds. Always ready and willing to assist!

Sent by Lee-Anne Denham

10/10 Melissa was great to deal with from day one, with ideas for Bali and Phuket. She was prompt with providing quotes and helping to remain within budget. It was great to have one point of contact to arrange everything from start to finish for planes, transport and hotels. We now excited for our upcoming trip and counting the days.

Sent by Gillian Habermann

Melissa is a consummate professional. She goes above and beyond to ensure your plans run smoothly. If they don't, she's on the phone (after hours of course!) Always happy to provide quote after quote when I change my dates, or make arrangements when I need to add extra baggage. She wants to make my life easier, and she's trying to get the best deal- ALWAYS. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

Sent by Michael Sechiari

Mel is unbelievably efficient brilliant goes extra mile would recommend her services glady a real gem.

Sent by Carla Salvage

My booking was made through Melissa Ridley and she was beyond AMAZING. Nothing was too much trouble and she was always willing to answer my questions.

Sent by Natalie Major

Mel is the best agent by far.

Sent by Jan Xanthopoulo

Brilliant as always!!! ?? Thanks for the great service! …I am being spoilt!! This kind of service does not happen this side!! Thank you!

Sent by Thuso Sekhaolelo

10 out 10 is all I can say!!! Thank You

Sent by Charlene Jansen

Eager to assist. Patient and very helpful.

Sent by John Fisher

My daughter refered Mel to me, and 10 out 10 for service, now I know why my daughter referred Mel. OUTSTANDING !!!

Sent by Andrew Webster

10 out 10.... Professional, patient and Mel is always available. What a pleasure to deal with Mel.

Sent by Desire Scharnick

Melissa were very prompt when quoting initially. She immediately responded to questions or queries, she was always attentive and available when I contacted her. I was incredibly satisfied with the service received.

Sent by Angela Oschger

Fast, efficient, knowledgeable and offered advise and did all the heavy lifting - an easy lovely experience

Sent by Rosana Stroebel

10 / 10 Excellent, friendly service. Melissa was a great help and is an absolute asset to the company.

Sent by Elizabeth Pretorius

Melissa has been very helpful with all my travel bookings. Even when I got in a panic she was there to help. I have referred her to a friend who is now also using her services. Fantastic service!!

Sent by Karen Maritz

WOW 10 out 10...... Personal, engaging I will use Melissa's services again and again

Sent by Vivienne Prohn

Melissa listens to what my needs are and always finds the perfect holiday to suit our family and our pocket. What a joy dealing with her.

Sent by Pierre Bredahl

10 out 10 thank you Melissa

Sent by Gillian Habermann

Melissa is so helpful, always trying to find the best options for me, & nothing is too much trouble

Sent by Jean Liddiard

MELISSA RIDELY was simply wonderful going that extra mile after hours to ensure a stress free holiday. Highly recommend Mel.

Sent by Judith Kruger

She is absolutely the best!! I would recommend and do recommend her to everyone I know that wants to travel, she will also be doing my husband travel arrangements as she is the only one I trust with such a long and tiresome flight. She will take care of your every need no matter what time of day or night. A diamond in the rough!!! My diamond??

Sent by Jan Xanthopoulo

10/10 Great service!!

Sent by Wendy Nieuwoudt

Melissa was the most hands on, helpful travel agent we've ever used. I would not hesitate to recommend her. We will definitely use Melissa again in future.

Sent by Bennito Van Vuuren

Very easy and understanding people especially Melissa. I have had Melissa on my team twice and possibly for the near future I'd always pick her as she understands my needs and is very friendly and helpful person.

Sent by Rajeev Harricharan

10 / 10 It's a pleasure dealing with Melissa, she is very accommodating.

Sent by Celeste Mcarthur

Mel is great

Sent by Storm Coote

What a pleasure working with Melissa on this travel planning. She has made it so easy for us to make decisions and make our travel dreams come true!

Sent by Sydney Nhlapo

All I can say is 10 out of 10. Mel is amazing

Sent by Timothy Middleton

10 out of 10 - Fantastic

Sent by Lee-Anne Van Der Nest

Great service from Melissa and always ready to answer all the 100 questions we have Definitely recommend her

Sent by Colleen Logan

All I can say is 10 out of 10......

Sent by Elizabeth Pretorius

This is my 1st international flight and she was very helpful and made the booking extremely stress free

Sent by Graham Roberts

10 out of 10 Melissa was very helpful, understanding and patient

Sent by Beverley Bailey

Melissa understands I am not techno savvy at 74, so she does all the necessary on my behalf. Much appreciated Mel.

Sent by Chanel Peacock

Melissa Ridley is fantastic, extemely efficient and very quick to respond to queries. I would highly recommend her to any of my friends or family.

Sent by Hendrik Venter

Melissa's Service is 10 out of 10!

Sent by Gill Fulcher

You are the best! If I were to give you a score out of 10, you get 10!

Sent by Anneke Leroux

I have never experienced service like this, just one word! Amazing! Thank you, Melissa! You are incredible.

Sent by Gillian Habermann

Melissa is super efficient. She is 100% committed to client satisfaction.

Sent by Kelly Liddiard

Melissa was extremely helpful with the full arrangements of our trip. It was planned and executed promptly and professionally. Thank you Mel, for the amazing anniversary surprise that was set up in our room too!

Sent by Johanna Nieuwoudt

Excellent service Thanks Melissa

Sent by Vivienne Prohn

Between a busy job and busy children we really needed to get away for a bit. The problem is finding the time to research where to go for the best price. I hate admin. I decided to give Melissa Ridley a try. What fabulous service. I provided her with our preferences and kind of experience we were looking for and our budget. She didn't disappoint and very quickly had us booked in for a fabulous family weekend away. We had a wonderful time. Thank you, Melissa! I highly recommend her travel services.

Sent by Karen Davis

Amazing service, very helpful. I will definitely be using Melissa again and will recommend her to friends and family

Sent by Hendus Venter

Melissa made our business her business. It's all personal. Proud by association. Try her out she is highly recommended!

Sent by Keeley Da Conceicao

Melissa put everything in place for me during these crazy times and helped me through all the changes taking place! I could not have done this without her help so the hugest thank you!

Sent by Craig Young

I had to make urgent changes to my flights to get back from Harare to see my sons first swimming gala. Mel reacted quickly and booked me the next flight out. She also went the extra mile to check me in to the flight and got me a exit row seat. Just brilliant personal service. Great to have someone like Mel looking after me when I am travelling.....

Sent by Maria Loupeli

Melissa was very helpful and she went out of her way to accommodate me whilst understanding my needs. Excellent!

Sent by Silindile Sithole

Mel is very helpful and reliable 10 out of 10

Sent by Colleen Ackermann Ackermann

Melissa is a wonderful person to deal with. She has gone out of her way to make sure everything is in place. We are looking forward to our cruise.

Sent by Sue-Anne Edwards

Great service

Sent by Anneline Nieuwoudt

Excellent service! Very happy! Will definitely recommend.

Sent by Ronel Steyn

A huge shout out to Melissa Ridley, who made my visit to see my kids in Ireland stress-free and amazing! I am not the easiest traveller to work with, especially since I grabbed the first opportunity to travel internationally. Thank you for your patience and understanding, Melissa. All your recommendations around documentation and vaccine requirements were spot on, even when these changed almost daily. Thank you, thank you, thank you!

Sent by Marnelle Venter

Melissa, thank you so much for arranging Liné's tickets and quarantine hotel. On a day that I just could not deal with any more arrangements, you made my life so much easier. I would recommend you to anyone that asks and also to those who don't ask.

Sent by Hendus Venter

Super service, Melissa Ridley Travel Counsellor, South Africa. Highly recommended to all. Very knowledgeable, professional and always available and in touch. The fact you offer a Travel app with all documents digital, a bonus in these paper crazy times! Keep it up.

Sent by Lerine Van Aswegen

She is wonderful. Available 24/7 and double checks everything. I already recommended her to my family and friends that are going to come visit us.

Sent by Beverley Bailey

Mel was fantastic. She offered a fast & efficient and caring service. She always kept us informed and up to date with our bookings. Travel has become quite complicated with quarantines, rules and the likes. So, we were happy to leave all that to Mel to sort out for us, which she did brilliantly. My flights, first with Airlink to Joburg were painless, efficient and a pleasure. Then with Virgin Atlantic to the UK was such a pleasure going direct, it took away all the pain of having to stop over somewhere and wait for a connecting flight... I really appreciated that! The 3-hour wait at Heathrow before we could get on the bus was a bit tiresome but the quarantine hotel was great, good food (more than generous), the menu choice is also good, room very comfortable and clean. Security is friendly and efficient. Thanks Mel.

Sent by Cecil Barnes

Only the best travel assistance you can get

Sent by Gillian Habermann

No matter the time or the day, 07h00, or Saturday; Mel was available to answer any questions, and look at options for me. Superb service!!

Sent by Maria Assunta Tilli

Angels appear in various forms. When starting to plan my trip, the feeling was overwhelming and causing much anxiety. Within a few hours of contacting my travel angel, Melissa from Travel Counsellors, she put me at ease, plus her price was the Best. Melissa is highly recommended!

Sent by Mark Simons

She is the best travel agent, she always takes care and makes the booking process simple.

Sent by Shu Chun Hsu

Melissa is wonderful - she's patient and thorough and listened to all our requests carefully, making sure we received everything we wanted in our quotation and booking. We can't wait to go on our holiday!

Sent by Annelize Winkler

Mel makes traveling easy! She listens to your exact needs and finds the best options to choose from. She is reliable, friendly, professional and 'holds your hand' (from a distance) throughout your entire travel. I am recommending her with a satisfied and happy heart!!

Sent by Karen Coetzee

Melissa is a breath of fresh air. We never have to worry about our travel arrangements any longer. She has lightened our load. She provides us with various quotations to ensure our comfort whilst offering the best price. She is with us right from the start of our enquiry until the point of check-in to ensure that our travel is a smooth process. Utilize Melissa’s travel service, you won't be sorry!

My Videos

Crafting your dream trip is my passion! Let's discuss how I can make your travel dreams a reality. ????

Travel Counsellors Brand Video

11/03/2024

Crafting your dream trip is my passion! Let's discuss how I can make your travel dreams a reality. ????

I am with you every step of the way

Holiday Time

11/03/2024

I am with you every step of the way

My Blog

I absolutely live and breathe travel and I love to write about my experiences! Please take a look through my posts - you might find your own holiday inspiration.

The Garden Route: A Road Trip Like No Other

22 October 2024

Hailed by many as one of the greatest road trips on Earth, South Africa’s Garden Route packs an astonishing variety of experiences into its scenic 300-kilometre stretch. Starting from the charming coastal town of Mossel Bay and winding through lush forests and picturesque sights, this legendary drive culminates in the serene beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park. Along the way, you'll discover every

Beat Jet Lag and Maximize Your Travel Experience with These Tips

26 September 2023

Introduction: Jet lag can turn a dream vacation into a nightmare, leaving you exhausted and disoriented when you should be enjoying your trip. But fear not, as there are effective strategies to combat jet lag and ensure it doesn't ruin your holiday. By following these steps, you can bid farewell to jet lag and embrace your travels with energy and enthusiasm. Exercise Before Your Flight: One comm

The Solo Traveler's Guide: Embarking on Adventures Alone

28 August 2023

Introduction: Embrace the World on Your Own The world is a vast and captivating place, filled with hidden treasures waiting to be discovered. What better way to uncover its wonders than by embarking on a solo journey? Solo traveling isn't just about exploring new destinations; it's a voyage of self-discovery, empowerment, and the ultimate adventure. In this guide, we'll dive into the ins and outs

Culinary Delights: A Food Lover's Journey Through Argentina

09 June 2023

Embark on a tantalizing adventure through the vibrant flavors and mouthwatering cuisine of Argentina. From sizzling steaks to delectable empanadas, this South American gem offers an unparalleled culinary experience that will leave your taste buds begging for more. Join us as we take you on a gastronomic voyage through the diverse regions of Argentina, where every bite tells a story and every dish

Top 10 Must-Visit Destinations for Adventure Seekers

01 June 2023

Calling all adrenaline junkies! If you're in search of your next pulse-pounding escapade, look no further. I've curated a list of the top 10 must-visit destinations that will ignite your sense of adventure like never before. Brace yourself for a thrilling journey through breathtaking landscapes, heart-racing activities, and unforgettable experiences. So, buckle up and get ready for an adrenaline-f

"Unveiling the Essential Travel Must-Dos: Unlocking Extraordinary Journeys"

25 May 2023

Embarking on a journey to new destinations provides an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth, cultural exploration, and unforgettable experiences. However, to truly make the most of your travels, there are certain must-dos that can elevate your adventures to extraordinary heights. This article aims to guide and inspire fellow travellers by presenting a comprehensive list of essential travel

Unveiling the Latest Travel Trends for 2023-2024: Exploring the World in Style

18 May 2023

As the world slowly emerges from the shadow of the pandemic, travel enthusiasts and adventurers are eager to embark on new journeys and explore the wonders of the world. With each passing year, the travel landscape evolves, and exciting trends emerge. In this blog, we will unveil the latest travel trends for 2023-2024 that will inspire and guide you in planning your next unforgettable adventure, a

Sustainable Travel: Exploring the World with a Conscience Introduction:

09 May 2023

As the world becomes more aware of the impact of travel on the environment, sustainable travel has become a hot topic. Sustainable travel is about making responsible choices when we travel that not only help to protect the environment but also support the local communities we visit. In this blog post, we'll explore what sustainable travel is, why it's important, and how we can all contribute to a

Why Is Travel Insurance Important

06 April 2023

Travel insurance is an essential aspect of any trip, whether it is a domestic or international one. It provides protection and peace of mind by covering unexpected and costly events that can occur during a trip. In this blog post, I will explore why taking travel insurance is crucial and the benefits it offers. Medical Emergencies Medical emergencies can occur anytime, and anywhere and are expens

10 reasons to use a travel agent

23 February 2023

Expert Knowledge: A Travel Counsellor has extensive knowledge of destinations, hotels, airlines, and tour operators, allowing them to provide you with personalized recommendations and insider tips that you won't find online. Time-Saving: Planning a trip can be time-consuming and overwhelming, especially if you're unfamiliar with the destination. A Travel Counsellor takes care of all the arrange

AMAZING AMMAZULU AFRICAN PALACE

16 February 2021

If you looking for unique luxury accommodation then look no further than at Ammazulu African Palace, this could be the place for you. It is situated on the edge of the Kloof Gorge and Krantzkloof Nature Reserve in KZN. It is a truly spectacular boutique hotel that is perfect for you to relax and unwind in. Experience a special stay in the elaborately crafted and decorated walkways, halls and bedr

Magnificent Morgan Bay

15 January 2021

Heaven is a place on earth... One place is Morgan Bay. It is a little slice of heaven… Situated about 1 hour and 10 minutes from East London and it has a little bit of everything for everyone… With an endless stretch of beach and awe-inspiring “Krans” which is great for sundowners after a day of beaching and exploring. If you are just looking at chillaxing, hiking, fishing, exploring, eating

Beautiful Boutique Hotel Northcliff, Johannesburg

26 November 2020

I recently went to The Northcliff Boutique Hotel for a breakfast meeting. This hotel is set on the Northcliff Hill. I was blown away by the mesmerizing views of Northern Johannesburg and the surrounds. If you are looking for an intimate venue for a business lunch or private function, then The Northcliff Boutique Hotel could be the place for you. They have an amazing Restaurant that can caterin

Contact Me

Whatever your holiday needs I'm here to help you, so simply give me a call or send me an email with your contact details on and I can get things started for you:

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