Jennifer Nelson

Travel Expert

Jennifer was born in Cavan, in the Republic of Ireland, and now calls Belfast home. Her path into luxury travel began in an unexpected place: the elite world of international horse racing. After studying equine management, she taught riding and spent time in Normandy, France, presenting some of the world's most promising young racehorses to royal bloodstock agents and leading industry figures, an early immersion in a world of exceptional standards and fine detail that would shape her eye for luxury for years to come.

Jennifer went on to live and work in Majorca before returning to Belfast, where she moved into HR. Coming out of the pandemic, she set up her own travel business, specialising in honeymoons and sending clients to destinations across Africa, the Indian Ocean, the Middle East and Southeast Asia. After running the business for several years, she made the move to Mahlatini, drawn by the chance to focus on what she loves most: crafting tailor-made journeys as part of a team.

Today, as a Travel Expert at Mahlatini, Jennifer draws on her background in luxury honeymoon travel to craft tailor-made itineraries for life's biggest occasions.

Mahlatini Destinations Explored

United Arab Emirates

Most Memorable Trip

One of my most memorable trips was travelling to Budapest for a cruise industry conference, where I had the chance to ride the Golden Eagle Danube Express, a beautifully restored vintage luxury train. Winding through Budapest by rail felt like stepping back in time, and it's an experience I still think about often.

Top of My Bucket List

Kenya is right at the top for me. I'd love to spend time immersed in Maasai culture, staying in a remote lodge in the Maasai Mara to experience the wildlife firsthand. I'm also a huge supporter of the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust and their work rehoming orphaned elephants, so visiting their sanctuary would mean a great deal to me.

Favourite Safari Animal

The elephant. I love how they live in close family herds, remembering and looking out for each other for life.

Sundowner of Choice

A cold glass of prosecco, for sure! It is so refreshing and impossible to beat after a day on safari.

Favourite Property

&Beyond Kichwa Tembo in Kenya's Maasai Mara. I've heard incredible things and can't wait to experience it firsthand.

Top Travel Tip

Book early where you can. Even for a big trip, putting down a deposit and paying it off gradually makes it far more achievable. I saw this firsthand with honeymooners and families who felt much more confident planning ahead once they knew they could spread the cost.

Best Part of My Job

I love the tailor-made element of designing dream itineraries for honeymoons and milestones. I also love the destinations we work with, and after years of working largely on my own, I've really come to appreciate being part of a team again.