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Catherine Thompson
Catherine Thompson

Catherine Thompson

St. Catharines, ON Travel Agent

Refined Expeditions

15 Reviews
100% Recommended
2 Years of Experience
Additional Languages
English

African Safaris, Cruises, Europe and Machu Picchu.

My name is Cathy Thompson – Founder of Refined Expeditions. At Refined Expeditions, I provide one-on-one personalized service with a deep commitment to understanding your travel dreams, preferences, and style. I believe that truly listening to what inspires you is the key to curating enriching, meaningful experiences that go beyond the ordinary.What sets me apart is my dedication to meticulous research and creative itinerary design.

I specialize in crafting custom journeys that blend efficiency, comfort, and discovery. Whether it’s arranging skip-the-line or after-hours access to iconic landmarks, pairing you with exceptional local guides, or uncovering hidden gems and authentic encounters, my goal is to ensure each trip is both seamless and extraordinary.

Thanks to strong relationships with preferred travel suppliers: hotels, boutique properties, tour operators, cruise lines, and destination specialists, I have access to exclusive amenities, insider perks, and personalized experiences not available to the general public. These partnerships allow me to elevate your journey with enhanced value and customized touches throughout.

While I can expertly plan travel to destinations worldwide, my specialties include East and Southern Africa safaris, Cape Town and Stellenbosch wine country, Machu Picchu and Peru, European river cruises, and immersive journeys to Australia. I am a Certified Aussie Specialist and Aboriginal Experiences Specialist, uniquely qualified to guide your exploration of Australia’s rich cultural and natural landscapes.

From our first conversation to the moment you return home, I’ll be your dedicated travel advocate providing expert guidance, ongoing support, and thoughtful service every step of the way. I also continue to expand my knowledge through advanced training and certifications to ensure every trip I design meets the highest standards.

Let’s begin planning your next unforgettable adventure whether it’s a river cruise, African safari, culturally immersive expedition, or a bespoke family journey designed just for you.

Travel your way with confidence, expertise, and inspiration.

Areas of Expertise

Destinations:

Australia
Portugal
South Africa, Kruger National Park
Hawaii
South Africa, Cape Town
Peru, Machu Picchu
Portugal, Lisbon

Interests:

Cruises
Safari
Wine Country Vacations
River Cruises
All Inclusive

Suppliers:

AmaWaterways
Marriott Hotels
Avalon Waterways
Sandals Resorts
Holland America Line
Hurtigruten
Virgin Voyages
Norwegian Cruise Line
Princess Cruises®

My Travel Specialties

Safaris, Cruises, Europe, Costa Rica, Luxury

Safaris, Cruises, Europe, Costa Rica, Luxury

My name is Cathy Thompson – Founder of Refined Expeditions. At Refined Expeditions, I provide one-on-one personalized ...

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Australia Specialist

Australia Specialist

I am a certified Aussie and Aboriginal Experiences specialist. Let me help you put together an amazing itinerary that ca...

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South African Safaris

South African Safaris

Let me help you create the most amazing experience in South Africa, with the highlight being a Safari in Kruger National...

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Everything Cruise - River and Ocean

Everything Cruise - River and Ocean

I specialize in helping clients plan and book unforgettable river and ocean cruise experiences. Whether you're dreaming ...

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Reviews

15 Reviews
From the moment I met Catherine I knew that I was in very good hands. She is very knowledgeable, efficient and prompt in communicating. An added bonus is that she is a nice person who will do whatever is necessary to ensure you have your best adventure. She really cares about her clients
gg - South Africa | Africa
We recently returned from an unforgettable cruise aboard Holland America's Rotterdam, with amazing stops in Bonaire and Aruba — and we have Catherine Thompson to thank for helping make it all happen. From the very beginning, Cathy was incredibly helpful, knowledgeable, and responsive. She answered every question promptly and thoroughly and researched all the details. Cathy suggested the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure, including the dreamy Chogogo Dive & Beach Resort in Bonaire and a luxurious day pass at Aruba’s RIU Palace Antillas. She even guided us toward an excellent island tour in Aruba with a phenomenal local guide. What stood out most was her thoughtful follow-through — not only during the planning but also after we returned home. It’s clear Cathy truly cares about her clients’ experiences. Her professionalism, insight, and personal touch made this journey seamless and special. Highly recommended!
Robert - Aruba | Caribbean
Catherine was diligent and accurate about the details of our vacation. There were few surprise and fun was had by all due to Catherines hard work
Nick P - Saint Lucia | St. Kitts and Nevis | Caribbean

Certifications & Awards

AmaWaterways Specialist
AmaWaterways Specialist
AMResorts Master Agent
AMResorts Master Agent
Seacademy - Gold Certification
Seacademy - Gold Certification
TRACKS (Rocky Mountaineer Specialist)
TRACKS (Rocky Mountaineer Specialist)
Viking Oceans Expert
Viking Oceans Expert

Additional Certifications

  • South Africa Specialist Through Goway Academy
  • Aussie & Aboriginal Experiences Specialist

My Places