Despite growing up in the UK, my fondest childhood memories centre around South Africa. I was fortunate enough to visit this remarkable country for the first time in 2005 and have returned several times over the past 20 years, feeling more inspired with every visit.
When I began my career in the travel industry, I knew I wanted to specialise in this incredibly unique country, a place that, for me, is so much more than a destination, but a place that feels like going home. From dynamic safari game drives to world-class wines in Franschhoek, coastal walks along the Garden Route, or sundowners in Cape Town, the experiences are endless, and the memories are unforgettable.
At Audley, I can share my passion for South Africa with all those excited to plan their own trips, whether they are visiting for the first time or the twentieth!
Q&A with Czeska
What is your most vivid travel memory?
Whilst on safari in Sabi Sabi, I experienced some of the most incredible game viewings I’ve ever witnessed. Whether it was seeing the interactions between a lion and her cubs, a leopard dragging her impala kill up a tree, rhinos mating or charging at our vehicle, or elephants drinking from our hotel pool, every sighting was a powerful reminder of the beauty of nature, just waiting to be uncovered. Racing through the reserve to get a glimpse of some of these sightings was exhilarating, and the reward of encountering the wildlife up close was extraordinary.
What tips would you give for people who want to visit your specialty destination(s)?
Layers, layers, layers! Whether you are facing the sometimes blustery winds in Cape Town or an early morning safari game drive, a jumper or two never goes amiss. And, when on safari, don’t forget to take it all in. Whilst capturing your sightings through a camera lens is so special, it’s easy to forget to be present and experience wildlife in real time. You’ll witness things that your camera won’t capture, from the way a leopard glides through the bush, to staring directly into the eyes of a lion as it walks right past your cruiser.
Which book, film or artwork captures your specialty destination the most?
Artist Ella Spire’s series ‘Global Landscapes South Africa’ is one which really resonates with me when I recall the way South Africa makes me feel. The series includes 38 works painted outdoors across a range of incredible terrains, including Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens, and Stellenbosch. Spire’s depictions capture the emotional essence of South Africa, a place of warmth, vibrancy and joyful connection to land and atmosphere. Her paintings immediately transport me to moments when I can’t quite make it out there myself.