Jamie Z.
A Truly unforgettable South African Adventure
I recently returned from an incredible solo trip to South Africa planned with Celeste at Icon Expeditions, and I cannot say enough wonderful things about both the trip and the care Celeste put into making it special. This was a big trip for me, spanning Johannesburg, a safari in the Sabi Sand, Cape Town, and the Winelands. It also happened to fall over my 40th birthday, so I wanted it to feel special, luxurious, adventurous, and very "South Africa." Celeste absolutely understood the assignment. Some of the experiences were truly once-in-a-lifetime. Londolozi was extraordinary and easily one of the best travel experiences I have ever had. La Residence in Franschhoek was spectacular and made my birthday unforgettable. I loved my time at Blackheath Lodge in Cape Town, my private tours with Aurum Africa, and my Table Mountain hike with Mother City Hikers. The entire trip was filled with beautiful properties, wonderful people, incredible food and wine, wildlife, scenery, and experiences I will remember forever. What really stood out were all the thoughtful details Celeste added along the way. She made sure the hotels and properties knew I was celebrating my 40th birthday and that this was an important trip for me. There were sweet birthday gifts and surprises waiting for me, and little touches throughout the itinerary that made me feel genuinely looked after rather than like just another booking. She was also incredibly accessible while I was traveling. Plans inevitably change on a multi-week international trip, and Celeste was responsive and helpful whenever I needed something adjusted. She was coordinating behind the scenes, checking in, and making sure everything ran as smoothly as possible. I did have one less-than-ideal experience at one property during the trip, and this is where I really appreciated having Celeste in my corner. She immediately helped me rearrange my plans, continued advocating for me after I returned home, took my concerns back to management, and ultimately secured a very fair resolution and refund on my behalf. Things don't always go perfectly when you travel, and knowing your travel advisor will actually stand behind you when something goes wrong is incredibly valuable. Looking back at the trip as a whole, it was absolutely phenomenal. South Africa completely stole my heart, and so many of my favorite memories came from experiences Celeste and Icon helped put together. I would happily work with Celeste again, and when I inevitably return to South Africa, Icon Expeditions will absolutely be part of that conversation. Thank you, Celeste, for the planning, the thoughtful birthday touches, the countless little details, the support throughout my travels, and for making sure I was taken care of from beginning to end. It was an unforgettable way to celebrate 40!