I grew up looking at pictures my older sister would send to the family while working on cruise ships and this was really what set me on my path. I fell in love with those pictures and the stories she would share about her travels. It was then that I decided, travel is what I wanted to do too! Straight out of high school, I completed my studies at the Cape Peninsula University of Technology and majored in Hotel Management.
After spending a few years working in different hotel environments to gain experience before heading abroad, my love for exploring my own wonderful country was ignited. Sharing the wonders of my city with travellers became my new love. I obtained my licence as a Tourist Guide in South Africa and got out on the road showing people rather than just telling them about it. Moving from luxury hotels to the travel industry just felt like the next natural step for me.
My favourite hotel
Wilderness Serra Cafema
Wilderness Serra Cafema is my favourite hotel. Situated in a very remote area of Namibia, along the Kunene River, Serra Cafema provides adventure and culture and a chance to experience one of the most untouched locations in the world. Be sure to visit the amazing Himba people who call the area home, and take a cruise along the river, perhaps stopping for a sneaky cocktail in the neighbouring country of Angola!
The best destination for families
South Africa
I’m perhaps a little biased here, but my home country of South Africa is great for the entire family. With adventures and experiences that appeal to young and old, it really does have it all – wildlife, sun, sea, wine, art, culture and more! It holds such universal appeal, offering spectacular adventure and entertainment for adults, while keeping children fully immersed in the experience as well. The whole family will make treasured memories to last a lifetime.
See where I’ve travelled
Rwanda
"Gorilla trekking in Rwanda has been the most incredible and thrilling experience I've had to date. "
Namibia
"Four wheeling through the Namib Desert. It took some getting used to, but what a thrill! Note to self: always choose automatic over manual transmission."
Morocco
"Wandering the narrow alleyways of Chefchaouen (the Blue City) – arguably the most picturesque city in Morocco."
South Africa
"Exploring my home city, Cape Town and venturing up Lion's Head whenever I get the chance is a real joy. The 360 degree views are just unmatched."
On my bucket list
The Serengeti
I’ve always wanted to visit the Serengeti in Tanzania to see the Great Migration, known as ‘The Greatest Show on Earth’. With an estimated one and a half million wildebeest, 400,000 zebras and 200,000 gazelles, I can only imagine how awe–inspiring it is to watch these magnificent creatures traverse the Serengeti.
My favourite restaurant
La Colombe
La Colombe was awarded best restaurant in Africa by The World's Best 50 for a few years in a row, and is more than just a meal – it’s an experience! The chef's out of the box approach makes this one of the best dining experiences I've had. Their menus change seasonally, and when I last visited they had prepared a nod to childhood treats which made it such a nostalgic and memorable night out.
My top tips
When travelling to Cape Town and heading up Table Mountain, make sure you have fast track tickets booked to help you avoid those lengthy queues. Ideally, make this your first stop of the day, as the wind tends to pick up in the afternoons.
Packing light may seem daunting, but most lodges and hotels offer complimentary laundry services, making this easier than it may seem. Africa is casual and there will be no need for fancy clothes while embarking on your adventures.
When gorilla trekking in Rwanda, try to book two days with the gorillas. One to just be fully immersed in the experience and their greatness and the other for pictures of course. Once you reach the gorillas, you only have an hour with them, so make the most of it.
If you’re staying in Sossusvlei, be sure to make the trip to Deadvlei and the Big Daddy Dune. A hot air balloon over the desert makes a very early morning start well worth it too.
