Hi Diana,
As promised here is an overview of the trip, in terms of what worked well and where minor improvements could be made.
Overall, it was a spectacular trip and was extremely well organized by you and your team. I am genuinely glad Hospitality Afrika was there to make it all happen.
More specifically, the locations were very well selected. The locations provided a diverse range of opportunities to see South Africa – as well as to enjoy the country in all its diversity. It’s a beautiful country – and I fell in love with it.
The one day in Johannesburg gave me a snapshot of the country’s history and economy; but we certainly would have liked to spend longer… Next time.
The diamond mine was almost like just another factory – and I found it very interesting to note that from such mundane operations bring forth the world’s most beautiful diamonds. So I learned something new. I found the small village of shops outside the mine to be a quaint throwback to another time and place – which I enjoyed.
The Apartheid Museum was a sobering and memorable experience. I know that your father was the architect and I saw how he made the design relevant to the context of the harsh times. My mother is an architect – so I have learned to appreciate building architecture and interior design from the time I was very young.
Cape Town was beautiful. I loved the proximity to the ocean and the lifestyle of the city. The wine country was wonderful and both the towns we visited were places I would have lived to stay for a day or two — just to enjoy the laid back lifestyle. Maybe next time!
Sabi Sands was the highlight. It was a miraculous experience — especially the proximity to the wild animals. I could have stayed longer and would not have tired. Even on days when fewer animals were to be seen, just the drive through the bush was something to cherish and remember. A whole new world opened up to me. It was a meditative and spiritual experience for me. It has made me seriously consider becoming more active in conservation of animals and natural habitats. I will never forget this experience!
The hotels were all very different. The Cape Town hotel’s ocean view was spectacular and worth every minute I spent there. Thank you for helping with a room with such a prime view. The restaurant also was a great place to sit and watch the breaking waves. Beyond this, the hotel was miniature — especially the ‘closet’ what worked as a bathroom! But it was worth it – simply because of the view and fresh sea breeze all the time. The staff were very friendly and always helpful. Beautiful.
The safari lodge in the was a throwback to a colonial past – and it made me nostalgic for my childhood when I was growing up in India. My father was a doctor in the army, and also in the air force. This meant I spent most of my childhood living in bungalows and club houses that were built during the British Raj. I loved it.
The guides were all great choices: friendly, helpful, reliable. I am sure you had something to do with it.
I really appreciate the personal touch throughout the trip. Your personal involvement, staying in touch, and following up at the end of the trip were all very significant and meaningful. The cell phone was an inspired idea.
There is not much to suggest in terms of improvements. I guess it is all about managing expectations of your clients – based on what kind of lifestyle they are used to. Net, it was a once in a lifetime experience. I have already recommended your team to some of the guests at the lodge – they said they knew of you.
Thank you and your team for such wonderful time. I couldn’t have asked for more.
Best wishes,
Moheet N (Cleveland, Ohio).
