Meet the Team

Orley Makler - Director

Orley has over 25 years of travel consulting and management experience, and is knowledgeable about booking the perfect trip anywhere in the world.

Her passion for travel has taken her across the entire world, and with more than 70 countries under her belt, there aren't many places she hasn't visited. Orley and her team love sharing their travel experiences and tips to make sure every trip is the best it can be. Her calm and patient manner is especially useful and reassuring in stressful times, as things don’t always go to plan. If you can't find Orley in the office, she is most likely at her favourite destination, Railay Beach in Thailand.

Michelle Mekler-Peled - Leisure Specialist

Michelle worked in the Inbound and Retail Travel Industry for many years, managing and arranging specialised tours for VIP Individuals, Groups, Conferences and Incentives. After a change in career paths she returned to the industry, full of passion and with an extensive knowledge of the world. Michelle has travelled the globe and especially loves the challenge of creating extraordinary experiences for travellers. As a mother of 3 she is particularly experienced and sensitive to the needs of travelling as a family. She is eager to plan all your travel needs no matter where you wish to explore. Her favourite place to relax – a deck chair on Tel Aviv’s Hilton Beach!

Simonne Mekler - Leisure Specialist / Accounts

Simonne has worked in the Travel Industry for many years in retail, wholesale and accounting. Having never been cured of the Travel Bug, she has returned to the industry with her vast travel knowledge and experience. Simonne's deep love of travel has taken her to many beautiful destinations including South America, Eastern Europe and the islands of Tahiti. She immensely enjoys cultural journeys, especially taking in a city's architecture, exploring ancient ruins, walking in the footsteps of history and experiencing the day to day lifestyle of the places she visits. Simonne's happy place is by the water’s edge, sitting under a palm tree listening to the crashing waves, with a pina colada in hand while reading a novel.

Merilyn Porter - Leisure Specialist

Helping you explore the world is Merilyn's pleasure. She loves to share her experience and be a part of your memorable ‘pinch me‘ moments. Her travel career began with 7 years at Cathay Pacific, followed by a large luxury Travel agency and then group travel. Merilyn's special place is Fiji and she is a Fiji Matai (accredited special agent). She has travelled there over 35 times with family and friends! She loves the people, culture, diving and the relaxed vibe. Merilyn has cruised on the Mekong, Irrawaddy and has been on 3 different European river cruises. Her mission is to make your journey above and beyond your expectations!

Ruth Macklin - Accounts

Although only working part time, Ruth has a very important place at Above and Beyond Experiences. She ensures that we all get paid on time - so we are always happy to see her smiley face! Ruth worked for many years in accounting so she is always there to lend a helping hand if needed. Ruth's daily visits to the office are always warm and happy and definitely adds to the calm atmosphere.

Judy Mekler-Peled - Social Media / Administration

Judy started working for AABE in 2019 and has revamped our presence on social media. She has credentials in e-marketing and website design and has vigilantly worked at making our imprint more recognisable. She created our new look website and works hard at keeping everyone well informed with social media posts and stories.

Rafi Makler - Staff Support

Rafi is the heart of the business. Although he attends school daily, he always greets us in the afternoons with hugs and puts a smile on our dial. He feeds us from his garden and always has very informative and useful information to enlighten us. Rafi is the go to person for those difficult moments.