My name is Natalie, born and raised in the Flemish part of Belgium. Ever since our early family holidays, I caught the travel bug and wanted to explore countries around the world. But exploring wasn’t enough anymore after a while. In my 20s and early 30s, I lived, studied and worked in Spain, Australia, the USA and Peru. Until I was finally ready to return home in early 2018 with a husband and a baby in tow. My passion then became showing visitors what Belgium has to offer.
Besides a traveler, I’m also an avid lifelong learner who has never stopped studying. While my last degree was specifically to become a tour leader and guide in Belgium, my previous studies have been as important in my development as a guide and tourism professional: a Master of Arts in Germanic Languages and Cultures, a Master of Journalism, an Advanced Postgraduate Master in International Political Studies and a PhD in Peace and Conflict Studies.
I’ve worked in academics and non-profit organisations but for me, my major accomplishment is founding Alternative Peru, a small travel operator focusing on sustainable and social impact tours off-the-beaten-path, while I was living there with my Peruvian husband.
Plain and simple, to give you the best possible and personalised experience and show you what I love about my homecountry. Not just the famous sights, but also the hidden gems off the beaten path.
From a private walking tour in Bruges, Ghent, Brussels or Antwerp to full-day road trips to castles, monuments, battlefields and picturesque villages and historic towns. But also tailor-made itineraries of several days or weeks with or without accommodation and guide. Around a specific theme, such as World War I or II or Belgian food, or focusing on a specific area. Always a combination of highlights and hidden gems and a local experience.
Anything is possible and I’d love to hear your preferences and interests!