Natalie Matthews

My expertise

Mauritius
Italy
Thailand
Families
Hong Kong
Ireland
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

Crafting bespoke travel experiences, from European cities to Island idylls

I am an Independent Travel Counsellor based in Johannesburg, with over 28 years of experience and a dedicated focus on premium leisure travel. Travel is my lifelong passion, and I bring that same excitement, curiosity and care to every journey I design for my clients.
My business has been built largely on personal referrals, which I see as the greatest compliment. I am known for going above and beyond: listening carefully, understanding what really matters to you, and then creating tailor-made itineraries built on thorough quality standards. From our first conversation to your return home, I am with you every step of the way.
As part of a global community of over 1 900 Travel Counsellors, I draw on genuine on-the-ground insight and trusted recommendations from around the world. With access to an extensive portfolio of hotels and resorts, a wide choice of tour operators and airlines, as well as private transfers, car hire, visa assistance and comprehensive travel insurance, I curate seamless, end-to-end journeys that feel effortless for you.
I particularly enjoy designing memorable family holidays, whether it is the excitement of Universal Studios and Walt Disney World, a relaxing island escape to Mauritius, or a tailor-made itinerary that balances travel styles and energy levels, all planned with the same level of care and personal attention.
Having personally travelled through France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Scotland and the UK in Europe, across the Indian Ocean islands, throughout Asia and Australia, the Middle East and extensively across the United States, I use this first-hand knowledge to help clients choose the right destinations, accommodation and experiences for their journey.

signature

Explore my guides and blogs

Singapore through Gold‑tinted glasses

Adventure Travel

Sustainability

Multi-Generational Travel

Singapore

Active Holidays

City Break

Touring

Culture & History

Singapore through Gold‑tinted glasses

Some destinations creep up on you. Singapore sweeps you off your feet from the moment you land. I was invited along on the Gold Travel Counsellors Singapore Trip, hosted with incredible care by our local team and partners, and what followed was a four-day whirlwind of sky‑high views, timeless icons, and pinch‑me experiences.

01 Oct 2026 5   min read

Shandrani Beachcomber:

Mauritius

Adventure Travel

Honeymoons

Couples

Families

All-Inclusive

Beach

Tailor-made travel

Shandrani Beachcomber:

For me and my husband, Shandrani Beachcomber wasn’t just another hotel stay. It very quickly became his favourite, the one he keeps talking about and wants to go back to with the whole family. Even walking into our room for the first time felt like a bit of a celebration.

28 Aug 2026 3   min read

Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius:

Mauritius

Adventure Travel

Honeymoons

Wellness

Couples

Active Holidays

Beach

Oceania

Shangri-La Le Touessrok, Mauritius:

Some places get under your skin the moment you arrive. Shangri-La Le Touessrok Resort & Spa in Mauritius did exactly that for me. It is also where Kev and I spent our honeymoon, so this stay felt extra special.

28 Aug 2026 4   min read

Effortless Comfort with a Beachfront Heart

Mauritius

Adventure Travel

Honeymoons

Couples

Families

Beach

Oceania

Adults-only

Effortless Comfort with a Beachfront Heart

Our site stay at Beachcomber Victoria in Mauritius revealed a resort that balances generous space, easy comfort and that laid back beachfront lifestyle so many of our clients dream of.

28 Aug 2026 3   min read

"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 2   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 2   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 2   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 4   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 2   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 3   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 3   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 4   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 4   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 4   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 2   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 3   min read

What my customers say

Hi Natalie. You were fantastic to work with. You were efficient, accurate, accomodating and always willing to help. The trip was absolutely amazing and we'll definitely come back to you for more in the future as well as recommend you to anyone asking! <3

Jenna De Bruin

Johannesburg

Natalie and the team take care of all the fine details for my business trips overseas - I know that they have my back if there are any unexpected issues .

Alan Van Rooyen

Johannesburg

20 out of 10! Natalie goes over and above, always!

Sherri-Lea Harvey

Johannesburg

Our family have been with Natalie for 28 years, through her career, she is awesome. We have used her for all of our business and personal travel, and there has never been a glitch. She even sorted things out after hours when there were French visa issues for my team in Reunion. Great Service and attention to detail, all of the time.

David Whittaker

Alberton, Johannesburg

My travel to Australia and New Zealand was daunting with so many flights booked 13 in 3 weeks. Natalie kept me in the loop the entire time. where flights were canceled or delayed she was on top of everything amazing service.

Stephen Brown

Johannesburg

Natalie has been our travel consultant for several years and we continue to be very happy with her service. She is friendly, quick to respond to questions, and thoroughly attentive to details when it comes to the actual booking process. I have recommended her in the past and will do so in the future.

Leanne Hunt

Johannesburg

Natalie Matthews has been excellent! So patient with us. We booked a 7 night stay in Mauritius, our first as a family. Natalie was patient and understood our anxieties.

Colette Coertzen

Edenvale, Johannesburg

I found the service exceptionally good! From initial quotation to the very end, including updates along the way. It is refreshing to know that this level of service still exists out there. I will and have most definately forwarded on Natalies details. Thanks again, until next time :)

Tracy McCoy

Johannesburg

Always great service, extremely helpful, understanding of personal situations, many successful trips booked through Natalie over >15 years!

Martine Burgess

Johannesburg

I always have excellent service and will always recommend Natalie!! You are the best!!

Antoinette Pirzenthal

Johannesburg

Natalie has always been a gem for me and my family. She has always displayed a high standard of professionalism and efficiency, and always been available to assist in any way when we've needed help. She's a real comfort to me and adds enormous value to your company. Thousand thank yous to Natalie!!💖✨️

Priscilla Scott

George

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

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

Start planning with me

0/500 characters

Give me a call

Let’s talk through your ideas, no pressure.

083 266 2851

Let’s connect

Villas 1 Awali Background Colour Banana Island 3 (2)

Finding your match...

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