Bernie and Petra's Credentials
Meet Travel Buddy, Dr Bernie van der Linde
Hello, I’m Bernie!
The editor and freelance travel journalist behind Travel Buddies Lifestyle. My love for academics, travel and motorsports fuels my passion for turning our adventures into stories that inspire others to travel the world.
I live on a beautiful golf estate in Johannesburg with my husband, Shaun, a retired racing driver and successful entrepreneur. Whenever we have a break from our busy schedules, you will find us at our holiday home in Melkbosstrand, a serene escape on South Africa’s west coast.
As a proud mom to two professional racing drivers, Kelvin and Sheldon, who live and compete in Germany, I share a deep connection with the exhilarating world of motorsports. This connection perfectly complements my role as the Principal of BMT College, where my Ph.D. in Business Studies helps me design cutting-edge digital marketing strategies and refine my writing skills.
Beyond my professional life, I thrive on creativity and connection. Whether I’m capturing breathtaking moments through my camera, enjoying a game of Padel with my friends, or spending quality time with my family, I make it a point to embrace every opportunity life offers.
Friendships are incredibly important to me, and I value the joy and enrichment they bring to my life. I am fortunate to have a bestie like Petra, who shares a passion for travel.
My personal motto has always been: “Fill your life with adventures, not stuff, have things to tell, not stuff to show.”
I live by this philosophy and share it through Travel Buddies Lifestyle, encouraging others to live fully, travel often, and create unforgettable memories.
Bernie's unique skills and accomplishments
- Principal and CEO of Business Management Training College – an online business college in South Africa.
- Lecturer in Marketing, Social Media and Content Creation.
- PhD in Management Studies, UNISA.
- Member of the International Travel Writers Alliance.
- Press card membership number: ITWA10927.
- Member of IFWTWA – (International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association) Press Card Number 0887.
- Ex Officio Commissioner of Oaths.
- Master Practitioner with SABPP .
- Social media account manager for various Instagram and Facebook pages
- Website designer.
- Amateur photographer (photographic course completed through DPC presented by world-renowned Danie Bester).
Meet Travel Buddy, Petra Top
Hello, I’m Petra,
The adventurous other half of Travel Buddies Lifestyle!
I live in Altusried, a beautiful town in the Allgäu province of Germany, with my husband, Hans, a highly respected motorsport team manager. We have two amazing children: Silja and Lars.
Adventure is at the heart of everything I do. Whether I’m exploring new destinations, skiing down snowy slopes, or diving into a new language, I thrive on the thrill of discovery.
Learning languages is one of my greatest passions—it’s not just about words; it’s about understanding people, their stories, and their cultures. I believe every new language opens the door to a whole new world of connections and experiences.
For over 30 years, I’ve been immersed in the exciting world of motorsports, which has given me a unique perspective and a chance to meet incredible people from around the globe. These experiences have shaped who I am and continue to fuel my love for adventure.
Since August 2024, I am working full-time as the sub-editor of Travel Buddies Lifestyle Online Magazine. From 2025, I will be your German speaking tour guide on our Small Group Tours.
Petra's unique skills and accomplishments
- From 2022 to 2024, I was involved in an Electric car project for a well-known manufacturer in Germany.
- I am working full-time on developing our travel website, which includes uploading content, designing the pages, adding affiliate links and creating SEO-friendly headlines and content.
- English to German content translator.
- Trained Bank Clerk and Hotelier.
- Member of the International Travel Writers Alliance
- Press card membership number: ITWA10928
- Member of IFWTWA – International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association
- Social media account manager for various Instagram and Facebook pages.
- Amateur photographer, online photography course with Benjamin Jaworskyj, cellphone photography courses with Emil Pakarklis and Clifford Pickett.