Sent by Susan Rawlinson
Plettenberg Bay 20/08/2025
Based In Knysna
Looking for help with your business travel? Find out how I can help here
I was destined to travel; Zimbabwean-born, South African bred, a British Citizen (I lived there for five years), honorary Australian (my entire family lives there), and I now reside in Knysna with my husband and 2 children.
With over 20 years of experience working in the Travel industry - I am passionate about travelling and love adventuring to new countries and exploring exciting cities and cultures. I'm well-travelled and have visited over 30 countries, but I still have a few more ''must-see'' places on my list, such as Fiji, Vietnam, Alaska Cruise, and spending Christmas in New York. I could go on forever.
My most memorable travel experience is backpacking around Europe for three months at 20 with my now-husband. We visited 17 countries and explored the most beautiful cities and beaches. We met so many amazing people and had the time of our lives! My intriguing favourites are India, Dubai, Israel, Zanzibar, Mauritius, Australia, and South America.
Before I became a Travel Counsellor, I worked for a large leisure retail group (2005 – 2010) and a student travel group (2010 – 2013). I treasure both experiences as they develop me into a knowledgeable travel consultant.
I run my travel franchisee with Travel Counsellors. What I love about being a Travel Counsellor is that I can now offer a specialised, personal, one-on-one service. The flexibility of working from home allows me to be available to my customers 24/7. I will always go the extra mile to reconnect you with loved ones, or create your perfect Honeymoon, find the best value-for-money flight, a great hotel or your ideal tour.
Go make those memories - let me take you there!
"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer."
Plettenberg Bay 20/08/2025
Knysna 25/06/2025
Cape Town 03/06/2025
South Africa 07/05/2025
Bloemfontein 10/04/2025
Christchurch, NZ 07/04/2025
Bethlehem 27/02/2025
Cape Town 06/02/2025
Knysna 13/01/2025
Knysna 02/10/2024
Cape Town 02/10/2024
Bethlehem 02/10/2024
Knysna 06/06/2024
New Zealand 06/06/2024
Knysna 29/05/2024
Knysna 28/05/2024
PE 07/05/2024
Bloemfontein 20/03/2024
Bethlehem 18/03/2024
Knysna 01/03/2024
Australia 20/02/2024
Knysna 15/02/2024
Bangkok, Thailand 15/02/2024
Malmesbury, UK 13/02/2024
Knysna 05/02/2024
Knysna 05/02/2024
USA 15/01/2024
Knysna 15/01/2024
Johannesburg 15/01/2024
South Africa 26/10/2023
Knysna 19/09/2023
Bethlehem 08/09/2023
Buenos Aires 29/08/2023
Cape Town 18/08/2023
Cape Town 18/08/2023
Cape Town 18/08/2023
Cape Town 11/08/2023
Bloemfontein 01/08/2023
Knysna 05/07/2023
Bloemfontein 21/06/2023
Knysna 13/06/2023
Moscow, Russia 09/06/2023
Cape Town 16/05/2023
Knysna 16/05/2023
USA 20/04/2023
USA 20/04/2023
Knysna 12/04/2023
Cape Town 23/02/2023
YWAM 21/02/2023
Bloemfontein 23/01/2023
Knysna 23/01/2023
Russia 14/11/2022
Knysna 14/11/2022
Johannesburg 13/10/2022
Knysna 21/09/2022
Knysna 16/09/2022
Johannesburg 13/09/2022
Knysna 05/08/2022
Moscow, Russia 13/07/2022
Bloemfontein 14/04/2022
Bloemfontein 30/03/2022
Bloemfontein 14/03/2022
Free State 08/03/2022
Knysna 08/03/2022
Bethlehem 09/01/2022
Bloemfontein 09/01/2022
Bloemfontein 09/01/2022
Bloemfontein 14/09/2020
Knysna 06/03/2020
Johannesburg 06/03/2020
Bloemfontein 06/03/2020
Ladygrey 06/03/2020
South Korea 06/03/2020
Cape Town 06/03/2020
Bloemfontein 06/03/2020
South Africa 06/03/2020
Russia 06/03/2020
South Africa 06/03/2020
Bethlehem 14/02/2019
Durban 31/01/2019
South Korea 01/05/2018
Bloemfontein 15/04/2018
Bloemfontein 28/03/2018
LadyBrand 23/02/2018
Bloemfontein 23/02/2018
Mackay, Australia 22/02/2018
South Africa 10/11/2017
Bloemfontein 10/10/2017
Bloemfontein 29/09/2017
Johannesburg 07/07/2017
Durban 05/07/2017
Bloemfontein 04/07/2017
Johannesburg 30/06/2017
New Zealand 30/06/2017
Cape Town 15/05/2017
Bloemfontein 03/04/2017
Cape Town 30/03/2017
South Korea 10/08/2016
Johannesburg 05/08/2016
Johannesburg 12/07/2016
Johannesburg 02/06/2016
Johannesburg 02/03/2016
Cape Town 22/02/2016
Bloemfontein 29/12/2015
New Zealand 04/12/2015
LadyGrey 02/10/2015
Stormsriver 03/09/2015
South Korea 20/08/2015
Bloemfontein 20/08/2015
Bloemfontein 18/08/2015
Cape Town 07/08/2015
Johannesburg 14/07/2015
Bloemfontein 14/07/2015
Lesotho 18/06/2015
Cape Town 08/06/2015
Lesotho 26/05/2015
South Africa 25/05/2015
Lesotho 20/04/2015
Cape Town 10/04/2015
Johannesburg 26/03/2015
Bloemfontein 11/03/2015
Brisbane, Australia 11/03/2015
East London 11/03/2015
Hermanus 11/03/2015
Johannesburg 11/03/2015
Johannesburg 10/09/2014
Bloemfontein 03/04/2014
17/02/2014
SA 19/08/2013
Bloemfontein 19/08/2013
UK 19/08/2013
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.
29 July 2025
Knysna Elephant Park – home of the gentle giant! This was the perfect place to celebrate my son’s first birthday (he is a major Dumbo fan!) Located halfway between Knysna & Plett, they offer you the opportunity to get up close and personal with their herd of 5 elephants – what an amazing experience & privilege to interact with these majestic animals. As you wait for your tour to start, you imme
11 June 2025
Formosa Bay, located in Plettenberg Bay, home of the Waffling Whale – best whale shaped waffles ever (their breakfast and milkshakes are great too!) It is a family paradise with 2 pools (one is heated), a fun slide into the main pool, 2 games rooms, a small gym, sauna, a putt putt course, multicourt and a giant bounce pillow! What more could you ask for? Their location allows you to get away fro
06 June 2025
My family and I enjoyed a delicious breakfast under a beautiful Milkwood tree, next to the pool at Restaurant 1777, at The Old Rectory Hotel. This Heritage building is now a stunning boutique Hotel, located in the heart of Plett, a stones throw away from Hobie Beach. The Old Rectory is a tranquil oasis, and perfect for your next stay in Plettenberg Bay – with an amazing SPA, and rooms to suit r
04 June 2025
What a grand place to celebrate; a wedding, friends catching up, family gathering, birthday, romantic occasion – you name it, Kay & Monty Boutique Wine Farm is the place to be! Located in the Crags, in the Plett Wine route, between Plettenberg Bay & Stormsriver. A bright, open and welcoming space with large glass sliding doors, high ceilings, long harvest style tables (both inside & outside), an
04 April 2024
Location, Location, Location and Views Views Views! My family and I enjoyed 3 wonderful nights at this beautiful Brenton Beach apartment in Knysna during the March school holidays! Wish we could have stayed longer… Located 500m from Brenton Beach, restaurants, and a small kiosk shop – that is how I remember beach holidays as a kid; walking with my boogie board, towel and neon sunglasses down to
05 February 2024
If you are looking for a true break away from the hustle and bustle of a busy life, and to create some distance between you and your electronics – then Tsitsikamma Lodge & Spa is the place for you! It is perfect for that romantic weekend away, or to re-connect with your family, friends or loved ones. Each wooden chalet has an outdoor braai area, there are 4 cabin types to choose from and the rat
05 December 2023
The Old Mill Lodge is situated on a family run working Ostrich farm, and is the perfect, relaxed place for families, extended families, or friends travelling together. They are even pet friendly! Located near the Cango Caves right next to a rushing river, with lush green grounds and hills surrounding the property. They offer a variety of different accommodation types to suit every budget, or gues
14 November 2023
Just over 2 hours drive from Cape Town, this fabulous Big 5 Game Reserve is a must visit! As you arrive you are welcomed with a refreshing drink by friendly staff, then get to enjoy a delicious buffet lunch, while enjoying the breathtaking view of the bush beyond the pool. Our room was large, light and had the best views of the bush! The supervised Kids club was fun, with a giant chess board, pu
26 October 2023
This is one of my favourite hotels and have stayed here on 3 different occasions – its definitely a place you can return to again, and again! We had a lovely courtyard family room, on the ground floor, right in front of the pool – the perfect place to laze at & catch up with the family. The rooms are spacious, elegant & offer all the mod cons you could ask for. They also offer a free bottle of
25 October 2023
De Zalze Lodge - immersed in the Cape Winelands, surrounded by vineyards and beautiful mountains in the distance – absolutely breathtaking! The rooms (which were all named after wine variants) were cozy, with a picturesque balcony, decent sized bathroom, bar fridge, as well as a tea & coffee station. The beautiful pool, with views over the golf course and mountains beyond, was a short walk from ou
25 October 2023
Only 4.5 hours drive from Knysna, within 30 minutes of the winelands, and approx. 30 minutes into Cape Town - location, location, location. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay and can highly recommend it for family vacations, weekends away or a romantic getaway. Located in the heart of the man-made harbour – our 2 bedroom apartment had harbour and sea views, and we enjoyed a glorious sunset from our
24 August 2023
Are you looking for a true Knysna experience? Well why not be the captain of your own holiday on a Houseboat! My family & I had the best weekend aboard the “Dreamer” recently… After a detailed info briefing, mini skippers’ course, and a test run on the boat, we were given the green light and set sail on the lagoon! The sun was shining & the water was crystal clear – so we decided to head to a s
22 June 2023
If you are looking for a fun day out for the whole family, Redberry Farm near George Airport is the place to be! I took my daughter and her friend for an outing, and thoroughly enjoyed the Saturday morning atmosphere. First, we had to have something to eat at the café, who make the best strawberry smoothies and milkshakes! Once our energy levels were up, they each took turns to race around the
22 June 2023
My family & I were blessed enough to enjoy a fantastic night’s stay at De Denne Country Guest House in Oudtshoorn over Father’s Day weekend. Steeped in charm & history (the main house was built in 1907, and has housed 5 generations of the Keller family, until they opened their beautiful farm & home to the public when they turned it into a Guest House). Located halfway between Cape Town & PE, 10
13 June 2023
Located in George close to the airport, Full of History, luxury & sport! I am happy to report.. This majestic hotel will not come up short! My family & I were privileged to experience the wonder of Fancourt in May 2020, and more recently in December 2022 - absolute luxury with the majestic Outeniqua mountains as a back drop. The rooms are elegantly furnished, and the gorgeous grounds are covered
13 June 2023
When travellers find out that the insurance they automatically received because they paid with their credit card is inadequate, it’s already too late. But many South Africans aren’t using these top-up plans. Perhaps it’s down to a happy-go-lucky sense of freedom post-pandemic, now that clients are free to take their long-delayed holiday or honeymoon. Perhaps it’s because now that the pandemic is
13 June 2023
What a super cool place to stay - closer to the beach you cannot be... My family and I were lucky enough to enjoy an awesome night's stay at The Bungalow in November 2020. Located right on Hobie beach with breath-taking views of the ocean, a fun pool, a cocktail viewing deck, the best sushi I have ever tasted, Fun vibe, such amazing staff, delicious food served with a smile & they pride themselv
26 April 2023
My family & I were so excited for our MSC Cruise from Cape Town, and thank goodness we had perfect weather – no rough seas! As we arrived at the Passenger Cruise Terminal, the magnificent MSC Orchestra came into view - in all its massive glory! A holiday resort on water - WOW! We had a 3-berth Ocean view cabin equipped with everything we needed. Falling asleep on the ship was a real treat; the
25 April 2023
Every time I visit Cape Town, I discover new things – it’s a magical experience and a city that you could never tire of! This time, we had AMAZING weather (YAY!) so my family and I grabbed the sunny days with both hands and: Took a trip down a historical lane & fed the squirrels in the Company Gardens, wandered through the Green Market Square’s vibrant & colourful stalls, were wowed by the beaut
25 April 2023
My family & I recently enjoyed a classy stay at the Southern Sun Cullinan in Cape Town before our MSC Cruise. From the moment you walk through the large revolving door, you are transported into a regal world of high volume windows, marble, a welcome drinks station, and a smiling porter to assist you with your luggage. The pool is situated in a magnificent courtyard, right next to the Mangwanani S
24 October 2022
There is something so wild, beautiful and captivating about Wilderness.. Mes Amis Beach Guesthouse is located in the heart of the Garden Route; with private & direct access to Wilderness Beach - closer to the sea you cannot be! They have recently enjoyed a renovation and have RE-OPENED.. and it looks breath taking! They will also be opening a SPA, Intimate Wedding Experiences, and Business faci
17 October 2022
My family and I had an amazing stay at The Village Lodge, Botlierskop Private Game Reserve over the weekend! We all thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, especially the game drive, where we had close encounters with a mama cheetah & her 3 cubs! Not to mention, elephant, giraffe, rhino, buffalo, various species of buck, including the rare black impala! All the staff at The Village Lodge were so friendly,
15 September 2022
Horizon 4* Villa, located at the beautiful Heads in Knysna, is definitely the place to stay for your next Beach Vacay! An entire home, with glorious sea views, the perfect position to enjoy magical sunsets, within walking distance of the beach, free use of all the kayaks & SUPS at Under Milkwood (sister property located on the Knysna Lagoon). Horizon sleeps 8 people with 3 king rooms (one can be
13 July 2022
For Father's Day, my daughter and I took my husband camping for the night at an awesome Camp Spot along the Garden Route. Location! Location! Location! Closer to the sea, you cannot be. We pitched our tent at the water's edge. We were serenaded by the waves, while we were entertained by surfers, and dolphins and we were even lucky enough to see a whale! We explored the rock pools
03 June 2022
My family and I enjoyed a fantastic night away at Coral Cottages which is situated between Plett & Knysna. We went there in March. It's the perfect weekend getaway for the family as you get free access to the Adventure Land Water Park which is located next door. It was so much fun! The Cottages are nestled, between the trees with beautifully landscaped gardens surrounding them. I felt li
09 January 2022
Part of the Grand Simbavati Collection – Fynbos on Sea near Sedgefield opened in November 2021. My family and I had the most amazing night stay celebrating my Husband’s birthday. The sweeping 360-degree views of the mountains, veld, lake, lagoon and sea from the pool area and the Lodge is breathtaking! You feel like you are on top of the world. The nine-room lodge and self-contained cottag
09 January 2022
One of the best Boutique Hotels I have ever stayed at – it is steeped in history. A stay at Barrington’s Plett offers a unique experience that you will never forget. It is home to the first Craft Brewery in Plett and has a fabulous Kitchen Garden where they grow their herbs & vegetables resulting in fresh & tasty meals no matter what you order! There is also a Deli & Bakery where they sell
07 October 2021
Dutton’s Cove – Herold’s Bay (3 July) What an absolute GEM of a place! Dutton Cove is located south of George, nestled on the hillside in Herolds Bay overlooking the ocean. We loved our stay! Correen was an amazing host – she was friendly, professional, and very accommodating. The rooms all have sea views with a crisp & fresh beach décor and there is an outdoor patio as well as a small
07 October 2021
Agulhas Country Lodge (2 July) My family and I had such a great night’s stay at the Agulhas Country Lodge in Cape Agulhas. It is a slice of unspoilt paradise! We stayed in a family room which has an outdoor balcony overlooking the beautiful ocean. The Lodge is a family run business and the love they have invested into this place can be felt! The staff are very accommodating and friendly.
06 October 2021
Place on the Bay – Camps Bay (29 June – 2 July) My family and I were lucky enough to enjoy 3 marvellous nights right in the heart of the Camps Bay strip, across the road from the world-famous Camps Bay Beach! We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Place on the Bay – it has a Santorini vibe and I was transported back to some Greece memories and to some fabulous carefree travel mem
13 August 2021
The first time I stayed at Spier was for my first ever Travel Counsellors conference in 2013. We all had a great time. Ever since then, I have wanted to go back to enjoy Spier with my family. Unfortunately, the night before we were due to arrive at Spier, SA was moved to restricted Level 4 lockdown. This meant no restaurant dining, no onsite consumption, nor was the sale of alcohol was permi
13 August 2021
My family & I were privileged enough to spend an unforgettable night at Under Milkwood in Knysna over Father's Day weekend. My Husband was even presented with a Gift of biltong & fudge to celebrate Dad's Day! It’s all about the special touches. x Location - Location - Location! Situated on the beach in the prestigious Knysna Heads area, log chalets dot the hillside amongst tropical fa
13 August 2021
My family and I were recently lucky enough to enjoy a night in Hermanus at the Whale Coast Hotel. We stayed in a luxurious duplex style apartment. It was fully-equipped with all the modern facilities that one could wish for! It had 2 bedrooms and 2 bathrooms upstairs with the most amazing beds – we felt like we were sleeping on a cloud. Downstairs it had an open plan kitchen, dining and l
13 August 2021
Ilita Lodge – Great Brak My family & I spent a wonderful night at Ilita Lodge located in Great Brak recently. We stayed in a 2-bedroom apartment with breathtaking views over Great Brak towards Mosselbay. The apartment was fully equipped, clean, comfortable and included awesome braai facilities! It is the perfect place to unwind & relax with the family as you sit by the fire and admire
06 June 2018
If you are looking for a chic & luxurious getaway with breathtaking views of one of the most beautiful cities in the world - Pezula Hotel & Spa in Knysna, South Africa is the place you definitely want to be! It feels like you are perched on cloud 9 while you survey the glorious lagoon, ocean, golf and mountain views. The dining options are fantastic, activities (whether you are sport
02 March 2018
We started our tropical adventure by boat and were transported over turquoise waters until we reached our island getaway for the next few days; Palm Bay, located on the Whitsundays islands just off the Australian mainland. The smell of the fresh sea air and the warm sun started peeling away the layers of our city mind and body getting us ready for pure relaxation & bliss! As we approache
02 March 2018
India is a truly incredible (& colorful!) From the Majestic palaces in the desert of Rajasthan to the bustling & busy streets of Delhi & Bombay. India & its people welcome you with open arms and transport you into their enchanting past, magical present and mystical future... The Taj Mahal experience brings tears to your eyes - it is a breathtaking symbol of true love. The exotic smells
09 February 2018
Kwandwe Private Game Reserve - luxury at its best! If you would like to treat yourself, your loved one or your family to a Big 5 experience like no other then this is the place to go! It was a cold winters morning in the middle of July but we were greeted with warm smiles and hot chocolate. Our Safari vehicle was on standby to take us to our luxury Bush villa giving us the opportunity
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