Since 2002, my travel business has been driven by a profound passion for people and a commitment to delivering enriching and unforgettable experiences in Africa and South Africa. Our dedication to service and quality ensures that every private and group tour we host is meticulously planned to offer the utmost satisfaction and joy to our clients.
We create unique and memorable journeys, tailored to each individual’s or group’s needs. Our thoughtfully selected golf courses are integrated into itineraries that allow for ample sightseeing and wine tasting, ensuring a perfect balance of leisure and exploration.
With representation in the UK, the USA, and Europe, and a ground handling team based in Southern Africa, Africa Golf and Safari Co. is well-equipped to provide exceptional service. My personal involvement in every tour guarantees a high level of care and attention to detail.
I am dedicated to crafting experiences that will be cherished forever, fuelled by my unwavering passion for people and commitment to excellence.
Joe Hannan
One late Friday night in October 2002, I was on board a plane returning from a business trip for an large oil company. Sitting next to me was a lovely couple, Kirika and Irene, who asked for my opinion on their honeymoon bookings in South Africa. Although I had no prior travel experience, I immediately saw that they had been sold the wrong accommodation in the wrong place and were about to spend a lot of money on unnecessary hotels, transfers, and tours.
A Honeymoon Misadventure
Kirika showed me their booking confirmations, which they had made online, along with a map consisting of a simple triangle on a blank A4 page. The map’s three corners marked Cape Town, a hotel in Hermanus, and the airport, connected by two roads and a freeway with no indication of distance. Imagine arriving in a foreign city late at night after a jet-lagged flight from the States, a wedding, and two connecting flights, only to be driven 100km away from where you want to be. They were scheduled to arrive at a golf resort and spa, far from anything of interest to them, paying exorbitant rates for the drive at midnight, with no scenic views along the way.
Taking Action
I had to intervene. Despite their exhaustion, I convinced Kirika and Irene to trust me as I cancelled all their reservations, collected their luggage, and gave them a ride to a hotel near my home. They checked in, got a good night’s sleep, and met me for coffee the next morning.
Crafting the Perfect Itinerary
Kirika and Irene stayed at the hotel, which was centrally located near shops, restaurants, and close to Cape Town. I compiled a new itinerary for them, helped them rent a car, provided a map, and gave them my contact details. They set off on their honeymoon, and we stayed in touch during their seven-night stay. We met the night before they left, and it was clear that my intervention had significantly improved their experience. They saved money and were able to do and see more than they would have if they had stuck with their original plan.
The Birth of a Business
This experience inspired me to start my own travel business. I quit my job about a year later and launched my first travel venture.
A Touching Reminder
In 2012, Kirika and Irene found the piece of notepaper upon which I had jotted down their itinerary. They sent it to me, a touching reminder of where it all began.
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