Natalie Matthews

My expertise

Africa
Mauritius
Mediterranean
Thailand
Family Adventures
Families
United Arab Emirates
United States

I'm based in

Greenstone Hill

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

It's Nice To Meet You

Travel is the Ultimate Inspiration!

Welcome to my homepage. I am proud to say that I am an Independent Travel Counsellor based in Johannesburg and have been in the travel industry for over 28 years, specialising largely in the leisure travel market.

Working from home as a Travel Professional allows me the freedom and flexibility to meet my clients personal travel needs at any time of the day. My existing client base has been built up largely though client referrals which I believe has come from my ability in being able to tailor-make packages with individual yet professional attention along with me being accessible 24/7 which is a huge advantage in this industry.

I communicate with over 1,900 Travel Counsellors located around the world who can put me in touch with “local” information, and who can provide me with a hotel or restaurant recommendation to make your trip an adventure of a life time, I have access to over 700,000 hotels worldwide, a vast choice of tour operators, airlines, transfers, car rental and visa companies as well as travel insurance.

Working in travel has also afforded me many wonderful opportunities to travel and see the world over the years, experiencing many different cultures as well as many methods of travel which have all added to my expertise. Some of the destinations I have been fortunate enough to travel to include; the UK, Ireland, Scotland, Europe, Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Hong Kong, Israel, Kenya, Mombasa, Seychelles, Mauritius, Mozambique, Zanzibar, Madagascar, Reunion, Zimbabwe, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, New York, Las Vegas, Miami, Washington, Walt Disney World Orlando and Turkey with many more still on my wish list!

I believe that the more of our world we see, the richer we become!

I hope that I can unlock your passion and enthusiasm for travel and I look forward to every new enquiry that comes my way!

Looking forward to the next adventure.

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Explore my guides and blogs

"Exploring the Emerald Isle: A Journey through Ireland"

"Exploring the Emerald Isle: A Journey through Ireland"

Our self drive trip to Ireland in June exposed us to enchanting landscapes, rich history, and vibrant cultures. The Journey began in The Ancient East - Kilkenny, a medieval city boasting a well-preserved castle and a lively arts scene. We were fortunate enough to catch a Final Match of Hurling, their traditional sport which is considered as the fastest field sport in the whole world, in a quaint

21 Jul 2023 5   min read

Washington DC - A State of Historical Surprises

Washington DC - A State of Historical Surprises

When we decided to include a 3-Day Stopover in Washington DC after our week in Orlando, I certainly did not expect to be completely enthralled with all that the City had to offer us. From the abundance of Historial and Modern Museums to the Culinary delights & picturesque character of Georgetown. Our first activity had to be the popular Hop-On Hop-Off Bus so that we could orientate ourselves be

25 Jan 2022 5   min read

Western Cape Road Trip 2020

Western Cape Road Trip 2020

My family and I completed a 2-week road trip from Johannesburg all the way through the Karoo & Eastern Cape up to the Western Cape and I can honestly say that we live in an incredibly picturesque country with ever-changing dramatic landscape to explore! Our stops included the historic town of Nieu-Bethesda where we stayed on a working farm and got to explore the quaint little town including the

11 Jan 2021 5   min read

Uk / UAE Celebration

Uk / UAE Celebration

Not only were we celebrating 20 years of Marriage, but I was also celebrating 20 years of being in the Travel Industry and what better way than an impromptu trip to the UK to see our all-time favorite rock band U2 live in London. This was followed by a road trip through the English countryside up to Scotland and ending with a blast on the fastest roller coaster in Abu Dhabi! While in London, we

14 Jul 2020 5   min read

Hong Kong - Seeing the Unseen May '19

Hong Kong - Seeing the Unseen May '19

Hong Kong is such a vibrant, colourful destination with so many sights, sounds and smells that entice you to experience something different at any given moment. We spent a ‘long weekend’ in Hong Kong at the end of May, the weather was hot, humid with frequent short showers but this did not deter us in the least. On arrival at Hong Kong Airport it is advisable to purchase an ‘Octopus’ card which

14 Jun 2019 5   min read

Sensational Seychelles

Sensational Seychelles

The Seychelles Islands, being only a 4-hour flight away from Johannesburg, definitely has to be on any island holiday bucket list! The main island of Mahe boasts the smallest Capital City of the world being Victoria. The streets are clean and bustling with happy and friendly people. The little market is a gem in the city centre for all your shopping needs, the city even boasts a 'little Big

26 Sept 2018 5   min read

New Years Cruise aboard the MSC Sinfonia

New Years Cruise aboard the MSC Sinfonia

What better way to end off a hard working year with a bang! The 11 night New Years Cruise aboard the MSC Sinfonia will tick all your boxes in terms of entertainment & relaxation. To begin with I would recommend booking either an outside cabin with a view or alternatively the spacious Balcony Cabins where you have an outdoor balcony to welcome the fresh air and scenery. Teenagers can also

27 Sept 2017 5   min read

Magical Mauritius with Beachcomber

Magical Mauritius with Beachcomber

After spending a week in Mauritius on a memorable Educational with Beachcomber Tours, I experienced all that the island has to offer from sunshine, humidity, cyclonic weather activity to perfect sunshine once again and the most friendly faces of the locals. Our trip began checking in at the British Airways counter for our flight from OR Tambo to Mauritius with the full use of their Business Clu

01 Mar 2016 5   min read

Mauritius on a Spoil!

Mauritius on a Spoil!

How fortunate to have visited Mauritius for the 6th time and it never ceases to amaze me with its beauty and friendly atmosphere! On this particular trip I was able to visit and stay at a range of hotels from 3 Star to 5 Star Plus! The 3 Star Hotels that really stood out for me would be the Recif Attitude, an intimate boutique style hotel located right on the beach in the North West of t

28 Aug 2013 5   min read

Tantilizing Thailand

Tantilizing Thailand

Thailand - one of the most compelling trips that I have ever been on. My experience began with Thai Airways, a seamless check-in and an enjoyable flight to follow. After an 11 and a half hour flight we began to see the sun rising over Bangkok. As we made our descent we could see little islands popping out of the bay area and wetlands began to appear making way for the Metropolis City of Bang

22 Jul 2013 5   min read

Las Vegas In a Week!

Las Vegas In a Week!

You can only imagine my level of excitement after learning that I had been invited to travel to Las Vegas! I was quite impressed with the International flight on Delta Airlines from Johannesburg to Atlanta, the aircraft was in a good condition, the seats were spacious and services on-board were excellent. Check in was easy and our transit in Atlanta through to Las Vegas was seamless. Du

05 Mar 2013 5   min read

SHANDRANI RESORT & SPA, MAURITIUS

SHANDRANI RESORT & SPA, MAURITIUS

We were extremely fortunate to be able to hold our Annual Travel Counsellors Conference at the Beautiful 5 Star Shandrani Resort & Spa. Shandrani is best known for its 5 Star All Inclusive packages, located just 15 minutes from the airport, you arrive in no time to enjoy this stunning hotel. Shandrani consists of 327 Rooms in total that includes 110 Superior Rooms, 69 Superior Beachfront Rooms

29 May 2012 5   min read

The Spice Island of Zanzibar

The Spice Island of Zanzibar

I can honestly say that Zanzibar is an Island that has something to offer everybody. From soft sandy white beaches, to a range of water sports, cultural tours, shopping, spa's and the list goes on. We flew with 1Time Airlines who have direct flights to Zanzibar every Saturday and Tuesday which means that you could easily go over for a quick break of 3/4 nights or extend to 7/10 nights. Af

18 Nov 2011 5   min read

My trip to Mauritius

My trip to Mauritius

I was fortunate enough in November to be invited on a 5 night trip to Mauritius with The Holiday Factory, one of our approved suppliers to view a few of their properties. We flew on Air Mauritius and I must say that I was pleasantly surprised at their aircraft, having last flown with them 13 years ago! Their aircraft was modern, with touch screens behind each seat and the service was excelle

09 Dec 2009 5   min read

Blue Train Experience

Blue Train Experience

I have just experienced one of the most luxurious adventures our Country has to offer, a trip aboard the Blue Train with an additional two nights in Cape Town. Our journey began on a Monday morning, a professional check in followed by an escort to our Deluxe Cabin with the luxury of a personal Butler at our beck and call. Brunch, consisting of a 3 course meal accompanied by our choice of b

23 Jun 2009 5   min read

Discovering Dubai

Discovering Dubai

I was very fortunate to be able to visit Dubai in September 2008. I had been hard at work finding the most suitable destination for my family where every one of us would be able to enjoy an aspect of an exciting new Destination. Dubai was the ultimate option, having excellent weather during September, stunning swimming beaches, an exciting water park and of course an abundance of shopping

28 Apr 2009 5   min read

What my customers say

Looking forward to our 2nd holiday that Natalie has organized for us. The 1st experience was so great ,we back for more.🤗🤗

Linda Eedes

Johannesburg

It is a pleasure to have a professional like Natalie Matthews to assist me when I travel.

Audrey Ueckermann

Johannesburg

So efficient! Her turnaround time is fast. Well done, Natalie!

Rene McLeod

Bryanston

Natalie is Simply the Best, it is a pleasure to deal with her, we love her and the fact that she knows exactly what we like.

Laetitia Gilmer

Alberton

I am a super nervous traveler and I have found Natalie to be extremely patient and very supportive. She has answered all my question and never made me feel rushed in a decision, checking in with me when I didn’t reply and making sure I have everything I need.

Veronica Tift

Johannesburg

She is the most professional and helpful agent I have ever worked with. I will only book through Natalie and she will always get my business based on the great service she offers! - Traxys Africa

Laith Khedheyer

Harare

I have been dealing with Natalie since 2017 and found her proficient but friendly. She is willing to listen to you re arrangements that you wantcto change, with patience

Lynette Botha

Johannesburg

Natalie is phenomenal. We've worked with her for many years, and she always does a wonderful job. She is responsive, informative and always available to answer any queries or calm any nervousness we have. She understands what we look for in a holiday and provides guidance based on this.

Harry Botha

Gauteng

Natalie has been a real gift to our family over the last few years. Not only has she been ultra efficient but we know her as part of our family. She is a huge asset to your organisation and I am blessed to have her deal with my travel arrangements. Thank you Natalie :) x

Priscilla Scott

Johannesburg

Natalie you have been amazing and your service excellent. I will recommend you to anyone who is going to travel. You have made our holiday with the family possible with your outstanding service

Glenda Louw

Johannesburg

I have been dealing with Natalie for many years and her service levels have always been outstanding. A couple of years ago, we had a family emergency and Natalie was able to assist with flights on a Sunday afternoon.

Wayne Gunning

Johannesburg

Great service. Extremely responsive and understood exactly what we needed on the first time of asking. Delivered an amazing week for us in Cape Town.

Dee Abudu

London

Great service. Extremely responsive and understood exactly what we needed on the first time of asking. Delivered an amazing week for us in Cape Town.

Dee Abudu

London

On a visit to Australia in 2021 Natalie was able to get us flights back to SA just before Qantas stopped flying due to Covid. A friend in New Zealand also needed to return before Qantas stopped. She didn't have a travel agent and Qantas wouldn't help her and she was marooned in New Zealand for nine months! Recently Natalie rebooked our flights from Melbourne after I had had to delay my return due to medical reasons. No problem!

Peter Moore

Johannesburg

Natalie is amazing, she is always willing to help, nothing is too much trouble for her. Would definitely recommend!

Lauren Louw

Greenstone Hill

Natalie Matthews has always been extremely professional and a pleasure to work with. She always goes the extra mile to assist us in our requests and our holiday experiences have never disappointed. We would never use another agent and would definitely recommend her.

Amanda DuPlessis

Modderfontien

Natalie has been arranging a number of our trips for us. We were never disappointed!! We can always contact her from anywhere in the world and nothing is ever too much for Natalie. We never leave this country before consulting Natalie. We can only sing her praises!!!

Hein Uckermann

Alberton

I just wanted to say congratulations on your fabulous new app. It works brilliantly and I’m sure will prove valuable while traveling.

Susan Corbett

Johannesburg

Hello Natalie Thank you very much for the work done so far. Truly a positive, enthralling experience. Excited to receive the doc’s.

Harry Opperman

Pretoria

Natalie is efficient, accurate and honest. I couldn't ask for her to be any more efficient and professional than she already is!

Michael Berriman

Johannesburg

Nats is one in a million! I will not use anybody else, she is on top of her game, She always gives good advice and the perfect recommendation. Natalie knows exactly what we like, she has all the patience in the world, nothing is ever too much and she is available 24/7 - 7 days a week and this is never a problem for her. She is Professional, Honest and always has our best interest at heart.

Laetitia Gilmer

Johannesburg

I highly recommend Natalie, she has been nothing but incredible helping us find the perfect holiday package. She is always informative and helping us wherever needed. I will definitely recommend Natalie to fellow friends and college her service is phenomenal. Thank you so much.

Tayla Whittaker

Johannesburg

Natalie was great, she was very fast to respond to emails and answered all of my questions. She is the best Travel Counsellor ever!

Elizma Maree

Groblersdal

Hi Natalie We are back safely and rested from our amazing trip. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for all your effort and assistance with arranging the trip for us. From start to finish everything was perfect. The pre-booking of seats on our flights helped a lot as we had an open seat next to us for 3 out of our 4 flights which made a world of difference on the long flights. I will and have already recommended you to friends to book any trip nationally or internationally with you. And I will most definitely use you again in future. Once again thanks a million and enjoy your boat cruise.

Micheal Bosch

Johannesburg

Natalie is most professional, friendly and efficient. She always goes the extra mile.

Noelette Hall

Ballito

I deal with Natalie Matthews - I would highly recommend doing business with Natalie from Travel Counsellors - it has been an absolute delight doing business with Natalie. A big thank you - for all your help and assistance. What a pain free exercise.

Shannagh Brown

Midrand

I have been dealing with Natalie Matthews for years and I will never change. Nothing is ever too much trouble for her. She is number 1.

Susan Whittaker

Johanneburg

Hi Natalie, Thank you, we had a WONDERFUL time. YOUR ORGANISATIONAL SKILLS ARE AMAZING! Everything was perfect! Thank you, Hein and Audrey Ueckermann.

Hein Ueckermann

Alberton

Hi Natalie Our trip was wonderful - a dream come true for me. Your bookings were perfect - in fact everything went off without a hitch. You can plan the same trip for anyone wanting to go to Italy, and hopefully for us again. I would recommend this same trip to anyone who is planning to go to Italy, we saw everything plus much more than we expected!

Megan Coutts

Standerton

Hi Natalie, Thanks so much. We had an absolutely wonderful holiday. Everything was above expectation. The accommodation in Vic Falls and Botswana was fantastic. Thanks once again for organizing another wonderful trip for us! From Kelly & Graeme Arnold.

Kelly Arnold

Johannesburg

Thank you for all your assistance and arrangements As always – perfect!

Eugene Oosthuizen

Johannesburg

It was awesome – I loved the personal touch at Thorntree – you feel very special and they organise everything and keep you updated. Thanx a million for your contribution to a fabulous funny moon!

Nesta Van Niekerk

Johannesburg

What a spectacular holiday! The resort was top class. Stunning views, beautiful hotel, the friendliest staff you could wish to meet! They made a total fuss of all guests, and made Martin’s birthday dinner a night to remember forever! Thanks for your recommendation! We had a total blast! Thanks again!

Julie Smith

Johannesburg

We have booked several holidays through Natalie at Travel Counsellors for both personal and business. Every holiday has been fantastic and extremely well organised. Natalie always goes the extra mile to make sure the holiday suits your needs and expectations. I highly recommend Natalie whether you live near or far.

Paul Taylor

Greenstone

Sharm El Sheikh is an underwater paradise, and our snorkelling experience there was a life-changing one. We cannot thank Natalie enough for the seamless arrangements and whose professional attention made our entire trip completely stress free in both Sharm el Sheikh and Cairo.

Beverley Dicks

Alberton

Natalie has taken care of our tours abroad and local trips for as long as I can remember and she has always taken care to plan our trips down to the very last detail, whilst keeping control of unnecessary expenditure. We have never had a hiccup and I have had no hesitation in recommending her to all our friends, family and business associates.

Beverley Dicks

Johannesburg

I would like to thank Natalie Matthews for her great service. She gave us the best price and service we could have asked for. She kept contact when needed to get our passports and insurance sorted. We are very happy!! Regards Gert and Carol

Gert van Aswegen

Centurion

Discover the world with me

Cape Town Inspiration

Cape Town Inspiration

Cape Town is known for its beaches, beautiful nature, food and wine routes, loads of hidden gems and exquisite lesser-known locales.

09 Sept 2021

5 Reasons to trust me with your Business travel plans

5 Reasons to trust me with your Business travel plans

Here's why you can rely on me, a Business Travel Counsellor to help you navigate a new travel landscape.

28 Jan 2021

A World of Good Awaits

A World of Good Awaits

Many magical destinations are desperate for us to explore them once again!

28 Jan 2021

Maldives

Maldives

Arial view of the crystal clear waters of the Maldives Islands

05 Nov 2020

Hong Kong Food Market

Hong Kong Food Market

Freshness at its best!

05 Nov 2020

Explore South Africa

Explore South Africa

There has been no better time than now to explore all that our amazing Country has to offer!

26 Oct 2020

TC Experiences

TC Experiences

Is life not better with more Experiences??

26 Oct 2020

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More destinations to enjoy

Let's plan your dream trip together

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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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083 266 2851

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Finding your match...

Every unforgettable journey starts with the right person by your side.