Tribes Travel are, in my opinion, a fantastic travel company. Their ethos, alone, is attractive to me. As a smaller company they conscientiously work with local guides to ensure funding goes back into the communities, rather than some larger cooperate companies that, in my opinion, exploit the locals.

The consultants take the time to understand the needs and desires of their clients, in terms of health needs, preferred locations, budgets, preferred airlines, etc to ensure that each holiday is safe and memorable.

My sister and I have had the privilege and pleasure to work with Christine Mac Dougall (who primarily works with the African Continent) on various occasions. A few years ago, we travelled to South Africa for our mother's birthday. She had always dreamed of going on Safari. Following the sad and unexpected death of our dad, we decided to treat mum. What an incredible experience. We spent time in Johannesburg. Whilst in Johannesburg we went into Soweto and had the privilege of visiting Nelson Mandela's home and meeting one of his childhood friends. We visited a museum that showcased South Africa's turbulent past, but also celebrated the resilience of it's people. We travelled to Pretoria and saw the Presidential Union Square and grand monument to Nelson Mandela. The rich history was deeply moving. Finally we went to Madikwe Safari Lodge (on the border of Botswana). The vibrant cultures, the warmth of South Africans, the diverse beauty of each place, and the animals. It's difficult to put into words. One of the highlights had to be the staff gathering together at Madikwe Safari Lodge and singing, only as South Africans can, Happy Birthday to mum. It was so moving.

Following such an incredible experience in South Africa, we knew we would be in safe hands if we contacted Tribes Travel again. We did not anticipate another holiday as incredible, but we were wrong! We travelled this time, the following year, to Mauritius. Again, Christine Mac Dougall was our wonderful consultant. Christine had already taken great care to understand our needs and learn about our preferences, so she was able to provide several tantalising choices about hotels and itineraries. This holiday was the most adventurous I have ever had. It was in many aspects unprepared, but very exciting and memorable. My sister valiantly climbed a mountain (sadly I only did a quatre....not that adventurous!). My sister and I also walked with lionesses, while mum remained in the beautiful Sugar Beach Hotel and was pampered by the staff.

The hospitality of the Mauritian people is exemplary. They are so generous and warm. Like many cultures, their respect and reverance towards older people is something to behold. The staff treated our mum as if she was their own or their aunty. The natural beauty of Mauritius is simply incredible. I really do not have the words.

Earlier this year we wanted to travel back to South Africa to visit Cape Town and the Western Cape. There was only one company and one consultant who we considered! Tribes and Christine Mac Dougall. Yet again, Christine Mac Dougall went over and above to provide us with a memorable holiday. The hotels were exquisite, especially The Vineyard, which she chose for our mum because it is boutique, beautiful, and had splendid gardens.

This November we're travelling again, to my sister's dream location for her birthday, Mozambique. Christine Mac Dougall has already assisted mum and I in booking the holiday including the flights and accommodation. We are in the process of finalising the excursions. Given our previous experiences, we are excited.

I would highly recommend this company for it's ethical and also bespoke services. The value we have gained from our holidays with Tribes Travel are special memories.