Client Blog: Sue and Richard's South African adventure

For many years we travelled abroad with a range of companies. Seldom were they trouble-free, and trying to track down reps, make phone calls or get any support often proved frustrating.

That all changed back in 2015 when we contacted Sarah to help with a trip to New Zealand. We’ve never looked elsewhere since when it comes to planning a big holiday.

Over the years, Sarah has helped us plan some wonderful trips; New Zealand, Australia, South Africa, and a lovely shorter break to Croatia.

We were especially grateful to have her support when we were in Australia during Covid.

We were pottering down the East Coast in a motorhome, blissfully unaware of the unfolding situation, when an early morning call from Sarah - on my birthday, no less - alerted us to the need to get back to Sydney before flights were cancelled and borders closed.

Sarah immediately found us new flights, adjusted hotel bookings and kept us fully informed throughout. Many people around us were left stranded. We were incredibly thankful to know someone capable and proactive was handling everything for us during such an uncertain time.

Of course, anyone can research destinations and book online these days, but what most of us don’t have is the knowledge, contacts and calm problem-solving that Sarah brings when things go wrong.

New Zealand was a fantastic holiday. And while we enjoyed our time in Australia, it didn’t quite match up.

Last year (2024), it was time for South Africa - a self-drive journey from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape and once again, we turned to Sarah.

The itinerary included a stay with friends in Hout Bay before we picked up the road trip: on to Franschhoek, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay, and finishing with a couple of nights on safari at Amakhala Game Reserve.

Amakhala was a real treat, staying in the Safari Lodge, surrounded by incredible wildlife and wonderfully enthusiastic staff. We were lucky enough to see the Big Five up close, though we also had to watch out for cheeky monkeys eyeing up our breakfast!

Sarah worked her magic with the details we gave her, and every accommodation more than met our expectations.

A standout for us was Ashbourne House in Franschhoek - large, comfortable rooms, friendly staff, and a perfect location for the wine tram and nearby restaurants.

South Africa itself is outstanding value. The food and wine were excellent throughout. We tried ostrich and kingklip fish, and had no trouble finding great places to eat.

We ticked off all the main sights we’d hoped to see: the Cape of Good Hope, the Cango Caves, the Wine Tram, and some lovely walks along the Robberg Peninsula and Plettenberg Beach.

In short, we can’t speak highly enough of Sarah. Nothing is too much trouble, communication is easy, and any queries or changes are handled quickly and professionally.

Her knowledge of destinations is exceptional and her support means you can relax and enjoy the trip, stress-free.

Look no further, you won’t be disappointed.

Thanks again, Sarah. Where do you suggest we go next?

Sue and Richard