Testimonials

“Pure Magic … every moment was so incredible and special … we were speechless.

This place is everything we dreamed of and more. The views, the animals, the light, the warm people, the adventure, the wildness.”

“Our trip to Kenya and Tanzania with Travel Sommelier was truly like stepping into a movie. I have long been a fan of Out of Africa and going on safari has always been a dream of mine. This trip exceeded our expectations at every turn.

Seeing the wide-open savannah of the Masai Mara was awe-inspiring and every game drive brought us in close contact with the most amazing animals—we will be forever grateful to the team at Travel Sommelier for this opportunity."

“One size does not fit all when it comes to travel, especially to exotic venues abroad. We had a trip of a lifetime thanks to the efforts of our newfound travel gurus.

Darren and his team constructed the most beautifully customized itinerary sensitively aligned to our interests, aptitudes, budget, and stamina and saw to the myriad details behind the scenes to assure us of a seamless and unforgettably wonderful travel experience.”

“The history, culture, and beauty of Morocco overwhelmed our senses and gave us a deep appreciation for this spectacular corner of Africa. The attention to detail and the level of service provided by TS were outstanding and our experience far exceeded our expectations.

We could not more highly recommend Travel Sommelier for a journey like this.”

“Our honeymoon to Greece was a truly unforgettable experience. Every aspect of the trip, from accommodations to inter-island travel, to restaurant reservations, was carefully thought of and organized.

We can not recommend the Travel Sommelier team enough and can't wait to work with them again!"

“The entire trip was flawless!

The family was blown away by the adventure. There were people on site meeting us at every stop ...

Just wanted you to know that all of your work in preparing for our experiences have made it a trip we will never forget.”

“Best day of the trip—village tour, oyster lunch with wine, boat cruise, electric bike ride, and a great dinner. Perfect!

Our lunch birthday cruise on the Seine. Fantastic! Cheers!"

“Looking back at the last and final stop of the dreamiest honeymoons ...

The trip couldn't have been more perfect and all of the restaurant, activity, and hotel recommendations were incredible. Not only that, but we are in awe of how organized you are which made our travels effortless. 

A huge shoutout to Travel Sommelier for planning a trip of a lifetime.”

"A BIG thank you from us ... Everything was top-notch: hotels, restaurants, guides, and drivers. It was seamless from start to finish which was extremely appreciated.

We walk away with wonderful memories and a new appreciation for a wonderful country and its people.”

"This trip was the best week of our lives. Every detail you all put in for us did not go unnoticed and we are beyond appreciative.

Words can’t express the feeling we have from this trip. What you guys accomplish is simply unmatched. THANK YOU!"

“What. A. Trip. We are beyond thankful to you and the entire TS team for planning the honeymoon of our dreams. People have been asking us our favorite part, but it's too difficult to choose. Such unique and beautiful places.

We also just wanted to comment on how seamless everything was leading up to the trip and while in Italy. No roadblocks of any kind—so impressive!”

“This is our third trip to Africa with Travel Sommelier, so we know when we ask them to plan an adventure they will most certainly deliver!

Climbing sand dunes, riding quad bikes, and flying to some of the most remote places in Africa—we could not have done this without the TS team."

“We just returned from a trip of a lifetime and the honeymoon of our dreams. A perfect combination of romance mixed with adventure and relaxation. Each place gave us a different glimpse into Italian culture while making us feel at home.

Thank you to Travel Sommelier for making us feel prepared, excited, and celebrated. Is it time to go back yet?!”

“Mike and the team at Travel Sommelier were fantastic. We had the most incredible honeymoon. It was the perfect blend of culture, adventure, and relaxation.

Everything was planned so seamlessly—we didn’t need to worry about a thing! We seriously couldn’t have done it without them!”

"Darren and his team were spectacular when planning our South African honeymoon. The hotels, restaurants, and experiences were absolutely phenomenal. I am also sure that Darren somehow managed for us to see the “Magnificent Seven”.

We would highly recommend using Travel Sommelier for any trip—they're the best!"

“We had such an amazing experience and made many family memories to last a lifetime. The best part was not having to worry about any of the small details!

Thank you so much for all your hard work. Our guides and the experiences were fantastic.”

"Our experience with Darren and his incredible team exceeded our expectations. Traveling to South Africa and exploring the country from Cape Town, to the Winelands, to our safari experience in Sabi Sands, every detail was intentional and our interactions with the team were fantastic.

They took the time to understand us and then executed an itinerary and vision unique to what we were looking for."

"Thank you Travel Sommelier for planning a spectacular birthday trip with great friends!

You made our safari dreams come true. From spotting the Big 5 to shark diving—nothing but incredible experiences."

"Iceland has always been on our bucket list and with a short time to see and do everything, TS gave my family an organized and thorough itinerary from start to finish.

Each place we stayed and activity we did was beyond our expectations and gave us unique experiences we couldn’t have given ourselves."

"We had a terrific time and appreciate your efforts to make our trip epic. Our guide in Cape Town could not have been better. He was so good with our boys and kept them entertained the whole time.

MalaMala was all we hoped for and more. Our guide was amazing and we saw the Big Five multiple times. We were particularly grateful for the special birthday breakfast in the bush. We'll never forget that experience."

"This trip wouldn't be possible without the wonderful team at TS. Thank you for planning our dream honeymoon with the best guides, restaurant recommendations, and accommodations!

It was such a treat to be able to relax and enjoy every second of our trip without having to stress about a thing!"

"We asked Travel Sommelier to recommend and organize an itinerary for us in northern Spain.

Wow and Wow!! It was so unexpected to gain experience, real excitement, and a sense of discovery while traveling. We’re going to do it again."

"I’ve worked with TS for many years and the team has once again given our group an experience we will never forget. Our trip to South Africa was seamless from the moment we stepped off the plane.

When you don’t have to worry about logistics, it makes the adventure more special. We even saw the endangered Bryde Whale!"

“We can tell you with 100% confidence that we made the best decision ever booking with Travel Sommelier. We loved not having to think about any of the logistics pre-trip and every recommendation was simply amazing.

It was an unbelievable experience and we already can’t wait for our next trip with TS!”

“Michael and the team truly rolled out the red carpet. I think the best part is they made it super simple without us having to make a ton of decisions.

The recommendations were all incredible and we have memories that will last a lifetime.

We are already trying to figure out our next trip to Africa using TS!”

“For our bucket list trip to the Galápagos, we requested a week on a boat with limited passengers. TS proposed an itinerary that absolutely knocked it out of the park!

Our dream vacation included a luxury catamaran, time at a fantasy hacienda ranch in the Andes Highlands, and the best rainforest spa experience with an expert guide. We felt that this ‘splurge’ vacation exceeded expectations."

"We traveled all the way around the globe to Singapore and Indonesia, and throughout our journey, we didn't experience a single hiccup. 

Not one delayed flight, every car pick-up was on time, and every detail was perfect. Working with Michael and the TS team was an incredible experience and they made global travel feel as seamless as a weekend trip out of the city."

“While Tanzania offered adventure and wonder, what will stay in our memories for years to come is the up-close animal encounters, amazing food, and accommodations that will be what we felt throughout the trip: it’s not often you simultaneously feel like both family and celebrities. 

We could not be more grateful to you all!”

“Our trip to Italy was spectacular due to the key knowledge and extensive planning done by Mike and the Travel Sommelier team.

The amazing hotels where we stayed, the private excursions and guides, and the smooth transfers every step of the way, made it a trip we could not be happier with. Their attention to detail is impeccable and we highly recommend TS!”

“Thank you to the entire Travel Sommelier team. Dave and I had a fabulous trip to Iceland and the Faroe Islands—a wonderful way to celebrate 25 years together! The tailor-made itinerary perfectly matched our wishes and included some surprise experiences. In particular, the lodging and recommended dining were spectacular.

We’re excited to plan our next trip!”

“Kudus to Travel Sommelier for planning not only the perfect trip but the perfect trip for us. From the incredible hotels that we stayed at, to the fun and adventurous excursions, to the special dinner reservations. What was even more impressive was the high quality of the guides that we had—they were so knowledgeable, funny, and flexible. They caught on quickly to our interests and adjusted where needed.”

"Arriving at Tswalu went flawlessly. What a gem you discovered!

This place is amazing in every aspect. The staff, our guide, tracker, and the food ... all perfect ... loved every minute. 

Thanks for everything! Well done!"

"As always with Travel Sommelier, all our arrangements in Iceland were flawless. The people you employed were professional, friendly, accommodating, and flexible.

The places we visited gave us a wonderful sense of a truly wild country with all the steam and waterfalls and the potential for a volcano to bust loose at any moment. Many thanks to the entire Travel Sommelier team for arranging such an incredible experience. Cheers!"

“Working with Mike takes all the pain out of travel.

Such a high level of service creates such a relaxing, beautiful, and fun getaway.

A million out of ten would recommend ..."

“This was our first trip using a Travel Designer, and it was nothing short of sensational. We came to TS with ideas, and they helped us accomplish our dream honeymoon. We were floored by the level of service we received.

The partners that TS works with are exceptional and after this trip, we can't imagine traveling without Darren and the TS team.

Meeting the gorillas was surreal and the Seychelles proved to be the perfect paradise to relax after so much adventure. We feel so fortunate to have found TS as this wouldn't have been possible without them."

"We recently returned from an amazing three-week journey through England and Scotland created for us by Travel Sommelier was an adventure and trip of a lifetime.

We visited Liverpool to do research on my father’s birthplace ... We even had an opportunity to visit the school, Merchant Taylors founded in 1561, which he had attended. We found his class photos hanging on the hall walls dating back to 1925.

None of this adventurous trip would have been possible without the expertise of the TS team. The organization, timing, and accommodations with dining, and touring with superb drivers and guides from the time we arrived to the time we left was absolutely outstanding."

"Mark and I had the most amazing time on our trip to Africa! Each stop offered a wonderful combination of unique and iconic activities, warmth and hospitality, and knowledgeable local advisors to maximize our enjoyment. The facilities were top notch and we felt both pampered and supported so that the entire itinerary went smoothly and efficiently. This contributed greatly to our ability to take it all in and settle into the African rhythms.

Every experience was memorable and will be treasured forever! We were especially delighted by the snorkeling at a two-mile island off the coast of Mozambique, but every safari, tour, boat trip, meal, and excursion will be etched forever in our minds, hearts, and souls.

Thank you again for an amazing trip! We can’t wait to plan our next adventure."

“Travel Sommelier put together the most wonderful African experience I could ever imagine.

From the moment the trip began, every detail was organized and taken care of; there was nothing to do but sit back and enjoy the exquisite vacation.

I am so grateful to Travel Sommelier for paying such wonderful attention to every detail. It was truly perfect.”

“We loved every minute. We cannot thank you enough. Wish we could stay longer but back to reality!

Thank you for planning a magical trip, it was beyond incredible! Truly the experience of a lifetime for our family. I had tears of joy yesterday!"

"We reached out to Travel Sommelier with a wish list of destinations and experiences, and the team took care of the rest.

Our trip to South Africa and Mozambique exceeded all of our expectations, from accommodations, and ease of travel, to expert recommendations at every stop.

Darren and the team are the best in the business, and we can't wait to plan our next adventure with Travel Sommelier!"

“Thank you to everyone at Travel Sommelier for planning the trip of a lifetime.

From the safari at Mala Mala to the wine country and finally, Cape Town, Darren and his team tailored the perfect itinerary to suit each and everyone’s need and desire.

The guides, restaurants, and accommodations were first-class, it was hard to leave. We are looking forward to returning to this beautiful country soon!”

“How do you create an amazing, 18-day vacation for a family of nine in South Africa? You select Darren Humphreys and the Travel Sommelier team.

From start to end, TS listened to the needs and desires of our group and then curated an unbelievable itinerary that met the interests of all. Cape Town and Grootbos provided just the right amount of exploration, education, and relaxation with top-notch guided tours and delicious restaurants.

The crown jewel of our time together was spent on safari at Kwandwe, a not to be missed location. It truly was the trip of our dreams.”

“Travel Sommelier was truly with us every step of the way and made sure our experience was smooth, luxurious, and unique.

Mike and the TS team helped make our dream South Africa honeymoon a reality! Every hotel, restaurant, guide, and experience they recommended was perfectly tailored to our needs and exceeded all expectations.

We can't wait to work with TS again!”

"To say it was the adventure of a lifetime would be an understatement! Travel Sommelier with Darren at the helm arranged a trip to Nicaragua for my family of six and it was nothing short of spectacular for my wife and three boys (10,12,16) and girl (14). 

Nicaragua is one of the safest and cleanest countries I have been to. With super friendly English-speaking guides at our service from the moment we stepped off the plane, we really found out what VIP service is. 

Experience-wise, we learned about the nearly 500-year-old city of Granada and their culture, saw two active volcanoes, ziplined, saw monkeys and sloths, and spent time on an amazing private island.

We then took a short guided ride to the Pacific coast where we spent time on beaches and surfed. I can not wait to book my next trip with Travel Sommelier!"

“From beginning to end this was truly the trip of a lifetime. It far exceeded our wildest expectations – the food, the surroundings, the service, and the people made this an adventure we will never forget.

We can’t thank Travel Sommelier enough for making our trip planning so effortless and our vacation so seamless. They worked so closely with us to make sure this trip was perfectly suited to us and our individual wants and needs. Villa Santorini is pretty much the way I imagine heaven to look. Totally removed and peaceful with a staff that really sets it above anywhere I’ve ever been to before. I will be dreaming of it for a long time to come.

The Wine Tour was so personalized that it truly made us feel like we were getting an inside peek into places most people never get to experience. Mala Mala gave us an experience that is difficult to put into words but impossible to forget. It felt so authentic there that you instantly forget any worries you left behind and settle into your surroundings as if you had been there for weeks.”

“Our experiences were simply perfect. From the second we got off the plane we were extremely well taken care of. The accommodations were outstanding as was our experience at the lodges. The guides were wonderful and the animals unbelievable.

You did a great job. It was one of the most organized and memorable trips I have ever been on. I would do it again in a heartbeat.”

“Our safari honeymoon trip to Tanzania and Kenya was something like a dream. The culture, lodging, landscapes, food ... everything was sheer perfection. We cannot say enough good things about Mike and the TS team's service and expertise—from the day we inquired to the day we returned stateside.

Africa moved us in a way we never thought possible and reminded us of what a blessing it is to travel the world. A once-in-a-lifetime experience that left us wanting more!”

“There are no words to express my gratitude for the glorious trip you assembled and executed on our behalf. Every moment was perfect, and we had the time of our lives.

Darren, and TS team I will never be able to thank you enough. Seeing Jack so overjoyed with each passing day meant everything. I am so grateful for your thoughtfulness, expertise, and kindness.

We are already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever that may be—and we will certainly partner with you again and again. In the meantime, thank you from the bottom of my heart.”

“Travel Sommelier planned a wonderful family trip to Rome for Christmas this year!

We had a beautiful balance of history and education and getting a taste of the Italian culture for our teenage girls.

From Rome to Pompeii, from pasta to cappuccino we had an amazing Christmas in Italy!”

“Once again, Darren and the TS team put together another extraordinary experience exploring from the bottom of Chile in Patagonia to the top of the Atacama Desert.

We’ve had some of our most memorable and exhilarating trips because of their focus on unique experiences, attention to detail, and fabulous properties/food/wine recommendations.

Can’t wait to plan the next one!”

“It would suffice to tell you it was the trip of a lifetime, and we loved every minute: the itinerary was perfect; the hotels magnificent; the Guides brilliant. We could not have asked for anything to be better.

It was a pleasure working with you and your entire team, Darren. All arrangements made for us went smoothly and efficiently. We both appreciated the knowledge and experience that led to choosing the perfect hotels and excursions for us.

We look forward to working with you again in the future.”

“Thanks very much for helping us put together the trip of a lifetime. Not sure where to begin. Our Safaris at Mashatu, Mala Mala, touring JoBurg, the wine county, or Cape Town and the Cape. What a trip. Four couples … and all eight of us loved it. Animals and more animals, many close enough to touch.

At one point we were in the middle of a herd of elephants that numbered approximately 600. Another day we watched around 400+ buffalo walk right by our Range Rover. Lions, Rhino, Hippos … all the big FIVE and so many more … UNBELIEVABLE! Penguins in the Cape were only 3 feet away from us.

The restaurants and the hotels that you recommended were spectacular. You batted 1000.”

“Darren and team put together an absolute gem of a honeymoon to Kenya for us! He steered us in the right direction for the perfect combination of adventure and relaxation on our Safari trip. The hospitality at these properties was unmatched from the accommodations, food, and overall service – we were treated like absolute royalty every step of the way.

They handled all of our transportation and logistics to make the entire trip stress-free. Since we decided to move forward with traveling a bit sooner than the majority of the world, we were able to experience everything with extreme privacy and extra care from the staff at each property. It truly was a trip of a lifetime we will never forget!”

“This trip was the definition of worth the wait! It was everything we wanted and more for our honeymoon. We had the best accommodations and service at Tswalu and Tengile in South Africa, truly outstanding!

Safari was the coolest and most unique experience, too many highlights to name! We thoroughly enjoyed every minute of it, viewing the Big 5 plus many more, the best scenery for coffee breaks, sundowners, and exceptional dinners. Bengurra Island was the perfect place to spend our last days in Africa, super remote, relaxing, and simply gorgeous. Trip of a lifetime filled with plenty of unforgettable memories.

We can’t stop raving about it – thank you so much Darren and Travel Sommelier team!”

“Travel Sommelier: What they are – a very focused, bespoke travel company that takes care of the very last detail. What they do – Understand every aspect of a trip, know each participant's likes and dislikes, interests and passions, and plan every component based on them. Who they are – people that understand the people they work with and focus on tailoring adventures each one different than the next.

Darren and his team took the time to understand our family and tailor an adventure that took in the goals of the whole while incorporating the interests of each individual. The trip is made up of four different components, each different from the next but fit together neatly like Lego blocks. When we thought we’d experienced a great thing that was beyond compare we were quickly brought back to reality, that the next adventure was better than the last!”

“Thanks for a fantastic trip to Argentina. The itinerary, accommodations, and recommendations in all three locations (Buenos Aires, Iguazu Falls, and Bariloche) were first-rate.

We wouldn’t change a thing and are very much looking forward to the next adventure with Travel Sommelier.”

“Travel Sommelier was incredible – every detail was thought of, the sequence of the different components of the trip was perfect, the selection of camps, wineries, and sites was exquisite and it all made for an unforgettable journey which we’ll remember for the rest of our lives.”

“South Africa was our top choice for an exciting honeymoon destination, and Travel Sommelier was the perfect partner to make it happen. From Johannesburg to Cape Town, safari to wine country, we had the most incredible time exploring the treasures this unique destination has to offer.

The wine is top-notch, the people are warm and friendly, and the scenery can’t be beat. Darren’s knowledge and recommendations were fabulous, and we had the trip of a lifetime!”

“With the help of Darren and his awesome team, we embarked on this trip of a lifetime! The intimacy with the wildlife and natural beauty of the Okavango Delta is truly overwhelming!

The pandemic certainly made the adventure challenging, but the reward was experiencing places like Victoria Falls virtually alone.“

“Darren really knows the ropes. This was not our first bush experience in southern Africa but the best by far. His attention to detail and firsthand knowledge of the areas we selected made all the difference. It was a knockout.”

“Our trip was spectacular! Every detail was completely arranged and flawlessly executed by you guys. Not a glitch or hiccup to be had. The accommodations were wonderful and luxurious. The food was delightful!

We absolutely loved everything about our trip and look forward to returning to South Africa soon. Thank you!”

“Darren had arranged the most wonderful trip for us to South Africa a few years ago so we turned to him in hopes that he could put together a trip for us to South East Asia.

He did and we had yet another Travel Sommelier “beyond words” trip, this time to Cambodia, Vietnam, and Thailand. Darren arranged for us to have wonderful guides, extraordinary experiences, and beautiful accommodations. One of the many most memorable highlights- giving an elephant a bath in Thailand.”

“What we came away with was a small taste of this great continent. The people we met were wonderful, and we made some great friends along the way. We saw and experienced so much more than this just being a “safari” trip.

I can keep going on, but again, we want to thank all of you guys for all your great organization and the choices you made for us.”

“We had a unique and unforgettable honeymoon planned by Travel Sommelier. It was the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. All the details were handled so beautifully that we had no worries the whole trip! Our favorite part of the trip was the unique Safari experience and couldn’t get enough each day.

Having the opportunity to explore Capetown and check out the beach in Mozambique were both very special to us as well, and rounded out the trip. Thank you Travel Sommelier!”

“My wife and I recently returned from a trip to South America that Darren and his team planned for us, and once again had an outstanding experience.

This is now the 3rd time we’ve used Travel Sommelier, and have nothing but great things to say about planning a trip with them. On this particular trip, we were in 3 different locations, and each time we were met by a flawless itinerary and transportation that made the trip happen without any glitches. Through local knowledge of properties on the ground, and also by taking the time to meet with us personally, the trip was tailor-made for our interests and we had one of the most amazing weeks of our lives in South America.

Thanks for all the help with another great trip!”

“I can’t imagine a more bonding family experience than seeing an African sunset together, searching for and discovering a pride of lions, witnessing the southern cross under the African stars, and waking up to a family of giraffes outside your tent.

Travel Sommelier planned the trip of a lifetime. It was a truly unique experience. At each hotel, we were given a red carpet-experience. From a private, surprise breakfast in the bush, to a private gondola ride that took us to the top of Table Mountain in Cape Town. The guides took us around to each location to experience the history and culture from a local. We loved that they all knew Darren!

It was amazing to learn about the history and culture. The kids truly learned by being immersed in the locations where these historic events took place.

As we drove along the garden route, we saw the beautiful dramatic coastline and stopped at wineries to taste the most amazing wines and oysters. Truly unforgettable. “

“We are entirely overwhelmed with complete euphoric emotion reflecting on our recent two-week honeymoon to South Africa. It literally brings tears to our eyes thinking about the immense gratitude we have for Mike and the Travel Sommelier team for putting together this trip of a lifetime for us. We have fallen completely in love with South Africa as a country and are counting down the days until we can go back.

We never wanted to leave. Every little thing blew us away: the people, the landscapes, the history, the food & wine, the top-notch service. It was done to perfection through and through. They did not miss a beat.

We genuinely could not recommend TS more and cannot wait until we can leverage their services again. This trip was a 15/10.“

“I cannot say enough wonderful things about my recent South African experience. Travel Sommelier attended to every detail, both in the planning, the execution, and the follow-up. What I considered to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I now consider my first trip to this beautiful country. The private guided tours by informative and professional individuals provided fascinating insight on both general and personal levels and felt perfectly tailored to my group’s interests.

The highlight of our holiday was, of course, the time we spent at Mala Mala. Our ranger, James, was kind, courteous, and completely accommodating. He made sure we saw not only the Big 5 every day but was so knowledgeable and passionate about his job, that we were treated to many other tidbits (on vegetation, tracks, history, sounds, and so much more.) we would have been sorry to miss out on.

I am so grateful to Travel Sommelier for all their invaluable input and the work they did to coordinate our holiday. I could go on for pages about the unforgettable people, food, and experiences my friends and I were treated to in South Africa, yet I would never be able to capture the way it touched our hearts. I cannot wait to return to this stunning country.”

“Darren at Travel Sommelier planned our trip to Namibia, Botswana, and Victoria Falls. We were fitting in a lot in two weeks and asked Darren for the impossible. What we got was the most amazing trip!

The most impressive part about working with Darren was that when we were on the trip, we felt like someone was behind the scenes pulling strings, organizing special enhancements, and making everything perfect. We now have a permanent “agent” and friend to guide us on all of our future trips.”

“Darren put together a great trip to South Africa for our 40th Anniversary. We had a rough idea of where we wanted to go and the length of time we wanted to spend traveling. Darren stepped in and with his expertise, he roughed out an itinerary, some activities, lodging possibilities, and travel options for us. Then he took that baseline and worked his magic. The result was a fantastic 10-day trip that exceeded all our expectations! We visited Cape Town, the wine country, the seashore, and a luxury Safari lodge.

And just for fun, he made sure every property we stayed at knew it was our 40th Anniversary trip! Each day of our trip provided a wealth of experiences; sightseeing, driving fabulous vistas, gourmet dining, beach days, wine tasting, and amazing game viewing.

What a trip! Thank you Travel Sommelier! “

“We travel extensively however had not yet been to Africa. A good friend of ours recommended Darren to us for setting up our trip. Darren was absolutely outstanding in providing us with a “trip of a lifetime”.

The safari camps we stayed in were luxurious, the animals/scenery were amazing, the people were awesome and the food/wine was excellent. Our time in Johannesburg was also outstanding with great accommodations, great restaurants, and a series of tours that were just right in seeing the highlights from this area.

Overall, we took over 5,000 pictures which is a testament to just how good of a trip this was. We definitely will be planning future trips with Darren as well sending our friends to the Travel Sommelier!”

“Outstanding! Travel Sommelier facilitated the best travel experience I’ve ever had. I thought it would be near impossible – the organization of a trip for a large family group to multiple destinations in several countries that would cater to both young and adult travelers. And we all had high expectations to boot! Darren radiates enthusiasm. He is passionate about what he does and about his guests’ experience. He knows where to go, when to go, who to meet, and where to eat. His almost telepathic understanding of his guests allows him to anticipate their needs. It’s a rare talent. In short, Travel Sommelier cared about our journey from beginning to end. It made a huge difference. We are already planning our next journey with Travel Sommelier and eagerly anticipate it.”

“Just back from a four-week trip that took in South Africa, Botswana, and Zambia. What an experience!! We left the majority of the planning for this “trip of a lifetime” to Darren and all I can say is that we could not have been in better hands. Darren’s knowledge of the area is astounding and that, in combination with his “eye for detail”, allowed us to sit back and wait for the trip to be laid out before us. It did not disappoint. From Cape Town and its surrounding areas to Johannesburg via the Blue Train, to the game reserves in Botswana and a “grand finale” at Victoria Falls, all went as planned just as Darren assured us it would. Our group of six would have no hesitation in recommending Southern Africa as a holiday destination and Darren as the person to put it all together.”

“Our trip to Africa was so much better than we could have imagined on many levels. Every part of the itinerary that Travel Sommelier put together was fantastic.

We knew that seeing the animals of Africa would be amazing, but we had no idea how beautiful Cape Town would be or how delicious the food would be at every stop on our trip. The wineries that we visited were gorgeous and the wine was amazing.

We learned so much from the people of South Africa and Zambia. The guides at each stop were engaging and knowledgeable.

Darren took care of every detail so that we could relax and really enjoy our trip. We are already excited about the opportunity to return in the future.”

“Darren thanks so much for an amazing trip to South Africa. Our experience was 10 times better than we could have ever hoped for, and we enjoyed each and every minute of being there on our honeymoon.

From Cape Town to the Winelands, then finishing up with safari—we couldn’t have asked for a better-planned trip. All the properties you booked for us were amazing, and we will hopefully get the chance to get back to Southern Africa as soon as possible.

We learned so much on this trip and had the opportunity to meet so many wonderful people along the way.

Thank you so much for planning this for us- this truly was the trip of a lifetime for both of us.”

“During the days on safari, I stepped out of my comfort zone so many times I can’t keep count. Sitting in the heat in an open jeep and having a lion pass within six to eight feet of me, walking to breakfast and encountering an elephant in the middle of the camp, or eating a native dinner by the campfire with my fingers.

Botswana and the camps we visited were very special … mostly because of the people who genuinely wanted us to have a wonderful experience. Each camp had its own flavor and tone set by the staff and managers. They wanted to share their country with us and sang traditional songs as we went to dinner. and yes … we did see many animals but the people were the stars.”

“We are very happy we decided to work with Travel Sommelier to plan our once-in-a-lifetime honeymoon trip to South Africa.

Without their advice and local relationships, such an important trip would not have turned out to be as wonderful and unforgettable as it was! South Africa is a gorgeous country with a lot to offer, but we were incredibly fortunate to stay at some outstanding hotels, enjoy divine food and wine, as well as enjoy wonderful activities thanks to great planning.

We are especially thankful to Travel Sommelier for their efforts to call up every hotel we went to in advance of our arrival to make sure we received the highest level of service. We look forward to working with you again in the future!”

“We have travelled all over the world, to many interesting and exotic places, but this recent trip to Africa will forever be the trip of a lifetime! Darren, your careful attention to every detail, including the very perceptive guidance on the choice of camps in Botswana and Zambia, pleased a very particular group of 6 worldly and persnickety adults.

You truly understand, in a very first-hand way, the destinations you are recommending. Each camp you guided us to choose was run with extreme professionalism, offering excellent food, superb guides, and the most comfortable accommodations.

Thanks to your keen focus and 24-hour-a-day monitoring, we were even able to avert an African airline mishap! Thank you, Darren, for taking the time to understand your clients. Travel Sommelier is truly a most specialized and informed resource, which we will recommend to all our friends!”

“Mike and I had the time of our lives on the trip. The schedule could not have been planned better in terms of the order of places we visited. Cape Town was the perfect place to start and relax, followed by our incredible time in Franshoek and adventures in wine tasting and, of course, nothing could top our safari at the end.

There was never a lull and each place delighted and surprised us more than the last. It was literally a dream vacation. Darren knows exactly what he is doing and truly understands the balance of what makes a great trip – and how could you go wrong in South Africa! It’s probably one of the most beautiful places I have laid eyes on and the changing landscapes over the regions were unreal.

Beyond what the natural beauty of South Africa has to offer, Darren sent us to the coolest hotels with the most impeccable service and hospitality and restaurants where we really had the best meals of our lives (not to mention the incredible food that the safari lodges had to offer).

The Tasting Room in Franshoek was an experience we will never forget and for being such a serious dining event, we laughed the whole time. We were blown away by the whole experience and we are so happy that we left it in your hands – we could have never planned a trip like that on our own.”

“What a way to celebrate a 50th anniversary! Our trip was a dream come true. We always wanted to share the friendly and sensational animals of Africa with our family but had to wait until the grandsons were the right age.

This year seemed like the perfect time as they are now eight and 13. All the arrangements were perfect. We were met and pampered all along the way. Each venue was completely different from the previous one. The food was a delicious mix of African specialties and they even catered to the boy’s tastes. There were formal high teas, sundowners, surprise breakfasts in the bush, and dinner with singing and dancing around a fire in the boma.

The animals and birds that we saw were fantastic: the big five plus wild dogs and their pups, hyenas and their cubs, bush babies, dwarf mongoose, wildebeests, and sugar badgers and, I am sure, Caleb, our 13-year-old could tell you many more as he kept a careful checklist. On just one morning’s drive, he identified 48 different species of birds with the help of Chris our excellent guide at Banaka Bush. Because we were celebrating a special occasion thoughtful, surprising touches were added such as finding a candle-lit bubble bath drawn with a split of champagne sitting on the edge awaiting us at the end of an evening game dive.

A heartfelt thank you to Darren for helping to make sure that this was the trip of a lifetime.”

“Just a quick note to say “Thank You” very much for helping us plan a truly unforgettable trip to Italy as we celebrated our 20th Wedding Anniversary.

In Florance, Gallery Hotel Art was exactly what we wanted … a small trendy boutique hotel that was right in the heart of the city … walked everywhere … amazing art, architecture … great food and wine!

Tuscany was truly beautiful … our tour guide/driver, Rita, was informative and took the stress out of finding our destinations! We loved our day at the family-run wine business … an amazing 7-course lunch at the family’s home/ restaurant where they make their own Olive Oil and their own Wine!

Last but not least … actually the highlight of our trip … POSITANO and CAPRI … “slice of heaven” … Our hotel, Casa Angelina, was high atop the Amalfi Coast with views that were out of this world … truly breathtaking… The employees at the hotel catered to our every need and made our stay fabulous … They scheduled a boat for us to take to Capri, and a motorcycle to Almalphi and Revelo … Can’t wait to go back … !

Your travel agenda for us kept us moving and very organized. Again, thank you, thank you … we will absolutely book another trip through your company soon!”

“Our honeymoon was a first-class experience and exceeded all of our expectations. It was incredible to take this trip and not have to worry about any of the details. Darren did an excellent job of planning a trip that fit the way we like to travel. While we enjoy sightseeing, we also like to relax and have some downtime, and our trip was perfectly executed that way. Highlights from Cape Town include great white shark cage diving in Gansbaai and our sightseeing day with Wendell. We saw 11 individual great white sharks that day, plus we saw whales and cape fur seals.

We had a once-in-a-lifetime experience at Mala Mala. We can’t say enough good things about our safari and are still raving about it. The place is amazing and our ranger, Kurt, was phenomenal. We got along so well with him and he was full of fantastic information about the animals. He taught Vik how to use our camera to capture particular close-range shots in difficult light – we learned a lot from him and have 1,400 amazing photos to prove it. Mala Mala is a wonderful place to stay.

We had an amazing time in South Africa and we are thrilled that we worked with Darren and Travel Sommelier for our honeymoon.”

“I took my mother on safari for her birthday, and Travel Sommelier made it the trip of a lifetime.

Darren understood what we were looking for right away and created the ultimate itinerary for us – a night in Victoria Falls plus stays at three very different, very stunning Botswana camps. We felt very taken care of in a very foreign land, and my mother was treated to not one but two birthday celebrations while we were away, which was all Darren’s doing (Darren, thanks for making me look good!).

Darren’s deep knowledge of Africa – the camps, the culture, the airports, the animals – was invaluable. And Natalie was so friendly, responsive, and organized. We couldn’t have done it without them. I would recommend Travel Sommelier to absolutely anyone planning a trip to Africa.”

“We had a glorious time, the trip created a lifetime memory for all of us.

Brooks was an amazingly good guide, bringing us to animals that others seemed not to find, knowing all the names of the many extraordinary birds, and he was wonderful with our grandchildren.

The most surprising fact was how very close we were able to get to the animals. I would recommend the Travel Sommelier team to anyone.”

“Just got back from a personally designed Travel Sommelier trip to South Africa. We choose Darren after much research. There seemed to be a lot of choices at the time, but having completed the trip put together by Darren, we would say without a doubt, there is no other choice!

Darren was spot on with our itinerary and took into account our specific style and desires. Upgrades and wonderful surprises greeted us along the way. The guides were fantastic, intelligent, and more than accommodating.

Our hotels were 1st rate, connections were flawless, service and attention excellent and the magic of his “insider tips” made the trip particularly special. “Priceless”. Where to next?”

“My daughters and I spent the Christmas through New Year’s holiday in Argentina, which we could not have enjoyed more thanks to Darren and Natalie of Travel Sommelier. Our trip began with a visit to the falls in Iguazu, arriving mid-day on Christmas.

We spent the next day at the Argentinean side of the falls, including taking the boat ride up through the rapids and being thoroughly soaked when driven straight through a waterfall. Along the trails, which are quite extensive we had the pleasure of seeing many incredible sights, along with butterflies, and even a raccoon walking one of the paths.

After Igauzu, Darren and his staff had us in Mendoza. Here, we were off on a hike that took us to about 3,400 meters in the Andes, followed by a white water rafting excursion. The final day was for touring wineries (and unfortunately learning just how expensive it is to ship home).

Finally a few days in Buenos Aires. We had a private tour and the guide took us to a leather shop that custom-makes goods and delivers them to the hotel the next day. All in all, I would say this was one of the finest vacations we’ve ever had, and could not have been more pleased with the selection of the hotels, and the advice on what to see offered by Darren.”

“We have just returned from our recent South African family vacation and all we can say is WOW!. The trip not only matched but exceeded our expectations, and believe me when I tell you, we had very high expectations!!

Darren did a wonderful job of planning each and every conveyance and portion of our trip and made traveling to a foreign country that we had not yet visited seamless. We enjoyed a luxurious stay in Capetown, bookended by two unforgettable safari experiences. We were shark diving in the morning, and climbing Table Mountain in the afternoon. We visited museums and wineries and took a guided day tour down the peninsula to the Cape of Good Hope. We enjoyed fabulous meals and fantastic wines and met a charming and diverse group of people.

The safari experiences were beyond our wildest expectations. Along with seeing the “big five”, we saw amazing birds and other animals in their natural environment. We were “up close and personal” with some of the most feared animals on the planet; lions, leopards, elephants, cape buffalo, hippos, crocodiles, and rhinos. It was awesome!. And the kids had an uninterrupted opportunity to spend quality time together.

Darren, thank you for creating such a special trip for our family, and arranging each portion to run smoothly and without interruption. It was without a doubt at the top of our list for great family vacations!”

“We just returned from literally the most incredible trip to Botswana that we could have imagined. It was my first time on safari and my first time in Africa, and we can’t say a big enough thank you to Darren and Travel Sommelier for organizing this experience. Not knowing what to expect, it far exceeded any expectations. Darren planned the perfect itinerary that managed to be both luxurious and natural at home with the environment and wildlife. We stayed at Vumbura Plains and King’s Pool, where across the board food was fabulous, the accommodations, staff, and camp management were excellent, and (most importantly!) the game drives and our guides were absolutely incredible – leopards, lions, buffalo, wild dogs, giraffes, elephants, hippos and more, too many to name! One of our most memorable experiences had to be our final evening at King’s Pool, watching 50 elephants cross the Linyanti River at sunset from a beautiful wooden pontoon boat while enjoying Sundowners. On top of that, everything about our trip was completely seamless, including all connections, transfers, and travel, to the point we didn’t even think about the amount of miles we had come. Needless to say, less than a week after our return, we are already thinking about when our next trip will be!”

“We returned from Mashatu in Botswana and Mala Mala in South Africa simply overwhelmed with our adventures. Your guidance on the choice of safari venues suited our lifestyle completely.

The accommodations, staff, food, and atmosphere lived well up to our expectations, but our drive experiences at both Mashatu and Mala Mala far exceeded our expectations. Both were very diverse and provided us with extraordinary memories that are hard to compare. Both rangers from each camp were highly skilled trackers and so well informed about flora and fauna. Our ranger Dan was so highly seasoned in the art, that it didn’t surprise me that we left Mashatu with the ultimate safari adventure, a leopard kill right in front of our eyes! Of course, we know that there was an incredible amount of timing and luck involved!

And in Mala Mala, we were one cape buffalo short of seeing the Big 5 twice, and we achieved Mala Mala 7 status when our fabulous ranger Matthew Hobbs sighted the elusive cheetahs on the last day of our safari! All within 40 minutes of an exhilarating tracking of the wild African dog pack that we had found on the first night. Wow, wow, wow!

Darren, Travel Sommelier took measures to ensure that every detail was attended to, and what resulted was truly our trip of a lifetime. Sad to leave our safari, we still had many adventures ahead in Stellenbosch and Cape Town. Your expertise afforded us several wonderful wine-tasting experiences as we toured this breathtakingly beautiful wine region. Winding down our trip in Cape Town was so decadent and relaxing spending our last four nights in South Africa at the Cape Grace. The staff was so welcoming and attentive, and it was wonderful being reunited with our friends in a beautiful suite overlooking the harbor and Table Mountain. We will never forget our experiences from this trip and know that they were heightened due to your constant attention to detail and expertise! Thank you so sincerely.”

“One of the best parts of traveling in South Africa was getting a call from Darren after arriving home and letting him know it was over the top. Sabi Sabi, Earth Lodge, False Bay .. he was spot on.

He took the time before we left to understand who we were and then matched us up with the maestros of South Africa. So fun .. the best. Having just returned from South Africa, we have a new-found sense of respect and awe for its diverse wonders.

Watching the whales in False Bay proved to be a bit more challenging than expected. It was mating season so rather than the occasional siting of a water spout, there were enormous body parts flying everywhere … and who knew whales could be so noisy? In Sabi Sabi, our rides into the bush were led by Marcus our guide. He never missed an opportunity to share his enormous reservoir of fun facts about the animals; their habits and mood swings .. he was always grabbing a leaf or a branch and explaining the interconnectedness of life in the bush. His excitement was absolutely contagious.

After a morning ride that was filled with zebra, giraffe, and elephant .. that evening those big guys were a bit more elusive. Not to be deterred, Marcus parked us under a tree filled with baboons that were settling in for the night and then pointed out some southern constellations. The Earth Lodge with its welcoming architecture, offered a perfect blend of being a part of the bush and first-class luxury. We are left hoping to return soon with our family in tow.”

“Thanks to Darren and Travel Sommelier for making our honeymoon truly unforgettable and the absolute trip of a lifetime! Not knowing much about South Africa or many people who were familiar with the country, we relied entirely on Darren to help plan all aspects of our trip – and we’re so glad that we did!

Our trip began in Cape Town. Being able to experience all of the sights and scenery of Cape Town is amazing in itself, but having your own tour guide to give you a personalized tour is truly incredible.

The second leg of our trip was a safari at the Mala Mala game reserve in South Africa which was perfect for a honeymoon! The service, food, accommodations, etc. are all top-notch! How many times at a hotel can you sit in your private plunge pool and watch lions and elephants across the river?!?

Having never been on safari, we didn’t know what to expect on the game drives, but it would be hard to imagine seeing more. We saw the Big 5 within our first two drives and almost every other animal that you would think to see on safari.

It was truly the experience of a lifetime. We’re already talking about another trip! The last leg of our trip was a week-long stay at Azura on Benguerra Island (Mozambique), which was the perfect relaxation coming off of safari. The helicopter ride from the airport to the island is such a beautiful way to start the stay. The experience there was fantastic. We couldn’t ask for a better ending to our trip.

Darren’s planning of all of the details, especially the multiple air transfers, was also phenomenal – the entire trip went off without one hitch or hiccup. Darren was so wonderful to work with and we can’t thank him enough for all that he did. Darren – we’ll be calling you to plan our return trip to Africa!”

“Working with Darren has been an absolute pleasure. We were lost trying to decide what to do and where to go to make the best use of our time while we were in South Africa. Trying to find information about the safari was absolutely impossible without expert help, and we certainly came to the right experts to help us.

You talked through all the options and proposed several for us to consider, never once pushing us to rush into a decision. Availability was still quite good because we had a month during which to include some time on safari, but going to Sabi Sabi was absolutely the best decision we could have made.

My daughters were calling it their private jet because they had never traveled in a small plane with only 8 passengers before! The most exceptional thing for me is your attention to detail and your diligence in following up with us throughout the planning, safari, and weekend trips. Checking to make sure everything was perfect, and that we were (most importantly) having a fantastic time in South Africa. We were, we are, we did. Thank you.”

“We just returned from a 10-day trip to Vumbura Plains in the Okavango Delta and King’s Pool Camp in the Linyanti River area of Botswana organized by Darren. This was our 4th trip to Africa and we were accompanied by another couple on their first true safari to Africa. Everything- from the food, to the rooms, to the guides, the the wildlife was ABOVE FIRST RATE at both camps. W

e spent multiple drives watching 5 different leopards, saw a lion kill a buffalo from start to finish, and raced through the bush on 4 wild dog hunts (3 of which were successful). So much for the “low” season !!!-and these are just the highlights of what was truly exceptional game viewing.

We were truly pampered in possibly some of the nicest safari rooms available in all of Africa, not just Botswana. I wholeheartedly implore anyone considering a safari to consider Botswana for its unique beauty, excellent game viewing, wonderful people, and these two camps in particular for all that they had to offer.”

“Our 2 weeks in Africa were absolutely perfect and we could not recommend Travel Sommelier more enthusiastically! We had a list of 20 things we wanted to do in Africa and only 2 weeks available so Darren spent hours with us and designed a fantastic, “first time in Africa”, bespoke itinerary.

At every camp or hotel, we ended up with the best room and the best guide (I am sure Darren’s “pull” had something to do with that!). Of course, the initial intent of the trip was to experience the game viewing but the trip was so much more than that: great food, excellent wine, “sundowner” cocktails, campfires, relaxing in our private plunge pool with elephants a few feet away, etc. Wn to start. The city has a great vibe, the drive to the Cape of Good Hope is beautiful, and the wine is excellent!

Our first camp was Rattrays in Mala Mala. Very luxurious accommodations. We saw all of the Big 5 and a whole lot more. We then spent 2 nights at Victoria Falls. The falls were incredible and we highly recommend the River Club; colonial British charm built right into the banks of the Zambezi. The sunset game view with cocktails on their small boat along the Zambezi was fantastic.

We can’t wait to go back and will definitely use Travel Sommelier again.”

“It really will be hard to top our trip to South Africa, thanks in large part to Travel Sommelier’s attention-to-every-detail approach.

We didn’t have any kind of game plan when we first met with Darren, but he and his team worked with us and our budget to create a tailored vacation that was perfect for our needs.

I’ve already recommended Travel Sommelier to a number of my friends. Thanks for help making the trip so memorable.”

”We had a fabulous trip – from touring beautiful Cape Town, to biking and wine tasting in Stellenbosch, and an amazing safari experience at Mala Mala.

Thanks to Darren and Travel Sommelier for helping us create a trip to remember forever!”

“From the moment we met with Darren to the moment we began our African journey, we knew we made the right choice.

Travel Sommelier is more than just an agent, he specializes in making your vacation a memorable experience that perfectly suits your tastes.

We’re already looking forward to planning our next adventure with Darren.”

“Thank you so much for planning the most spectacular trip to the continent of Africa.

The experience was seamless from start to finish. From Victoria Falls to the game drives in Botswana and South Africa to the amazing meals and wines in Capetown – the experiences were all so fabulous.

We loved the landscape and the people. Hope to return one day. Thanks again for putting all the pieces together so perfectly.”

“We had such an amazing honeymoon!

Not only did the South African sights and accommodations exceed all of our expectations but the logistics of the trip were planned perfectly with all forms of transportation and guides seamlessly coordinated.

Thank you Travel Sommelier!”

“Tswalu was beautiful and romantic with some of the prettiest sunsets I’ve ever seen and the most amazing stars/sky.

Singita Boulders was the highlight of the trip, beautiful lodge, with great energy, amazing food/wine, and fantastic staff.

Mozambique allowed us to chill and recalibrate.”

“What an amazing job you all did planning this dream trip for us. We loved every second of it! You’ve taken something that could have been very difficult and made it seamless and easy, allowing us to truly relax and enjoy.

The accommodations have been top-notch, the staff at both Eden and Angama feel like family, and the excursions have been unlike anything we’ve experienced before. On today’s safari drive (after our amazing balloon ride), we witnessed 2 cheetahs kill a gazelle and it was indescribable.

So again, thank you for the amazing job you did for us.“

“Travel Sommelier provided an exceptional experience, with every detail checked!

The safari they booked for me with Camp Ndlovu was above and beyond anything I could have imagined, and I would have stayed there forever if I could!”

“Darren and the team planned our two-week honeymoon and every single experience and detail was first class.

We enjoyed Cape Town, Wine Country, Shark Alley, Kruger National Park, and the most amazing property on a beach in Mozambique.

Darren’s knowledge and connections cannot be topped.”

“We just came back from a fantastic trip in Africa. Travel Sommelier arranged our visit and it was very well planned. We enjoyed all the hotels and lodges in Tanzania that we stayed at.

The game reserve at Singita was exceptional. The service and the accommodations were of the highest standards. The staff followed exceptional Covid protocols and we felt very safe and comfortable during our visit.

We have taken multiple trips with Travel Sommelier and they continue to exceed our expectations.”

"So grateful we finally made it to this magical place.

Swinging through clouds, swimming with sea lions, sharing beaches and hikes with birds and iguanas unfazed by our presence, and adventures and meals with crew members who called us family, and fellow travelers who became fast friends."

“TS gave us a seamless, authentic experience in Spain and Morocco. We have lots of tantalizing travel tales to share.

Every aspect of our trip was exemplary—we felt like royalty.”

“Traveling to Switzerland and Italy with TS was completely stress-free. We didn’t have to worry about a single coordination which was priceless for two working parents. Thank you so much to the whole team, what an outstanding group. We can’t wait to use you again!”

“Let me start by saying how much we loved our trip to Japan. The country, culture, food, nature, and people blew us away.

We have traveled all over the world, and it is now one of our favorite trips thanks to Travel Sommelier.”

“Wow. This trip was truly the best of the best ... planned perfectly, such that our two oldest children could experience so many aspects of what glorious South Africa has to offer.

The safaris were the centerpieces. Top-notch ("epic" as they say) accommodations, food, and animal encounters...each location so different but equally beautiful and powerful. But we all agreed that it was the people that made each step of the trip so memorable.

Travel Sommelier set us up with guides who understood the assignment, whether it was organizing joy-filled soccer practices with local kids in the informal settlements or bringing Johannesburg's complicated history to life in a way a teen and a tween could be captivated. Never mind the guides, trackers, chefs, and staff in the lodges ... whose talents were obvious and whose energy was contagious. A+, 10 out of 10 ... can't wait until the next trip.”

"Wow! Thank you for curating our amazing trip to the Basque Country. From beginning to end, you were with us every step of the way! Your local partners were great as well—knowledgeable, kind, and flexible—we felt like fast friends. Hailey, you helped create forever memories for our family.”