INTRODUCTION Youngest of four children that are all business owners supported by an entrepreneurial father with a passion for researching various business opportunities. I would describe myself as adventurous and taking calculated risks hence the start of a great journey as managing owner of Blue Elephant Experiences. Although I studied Human Resource Management I always made notes and plans to go and see places and having great life experiences. I am passionate about people from different walks and cultures and really enjoy working with people from different countries, assisting them in planning incredible trips/holidays to Africa. ![]() THE IDEA It was only after I studied Human Resource Management and travelled to USA and Europe that I realized that my passion lies within tourism and travel. When I returned, I searched for opportunities and was very fortunate to have met Hannalie Hattingh, owner of Blue Elephant Collective Group. I started out as reservations manager and Hannalie acknowledges my desire to develop the brand and have more responsibility. I was given the opportunity to start my own branch of Blue Elephant called Blue Elephant Experiences. PREPARATION/SKILLS LEARNED Skills needed before I started were how to deliver quotes/itineraries to clients and being able to build relationships with service providers. Knowledge regarding the travel products you offer is essential and this knowledge develops on a daily basis. I also gained precious experience in staring up of a business from business registration to the financial management of it. The most important lesson that I learned was to have a clear marketing strategy and also being willing to experiment with different marketing methods. LAUNCHED Blue Elephant Experienced was launced 1 October 2009 in Somerset West. START-UP COSTS Extremely low start-up costs were necessary as I only needed a computer and internet access. PRODUCTS/SERVICES Planning, booking and compiling of travel information Accommodation in South Africa – corporate and leisure Safaris in Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Kenya & Tanzania) Beach Holidays (Cape Town, Garden Route, West Coast, Wild Coast, Kwazulu Natal, Mozambique, Kenya Coast) Island Holidays (Zanzibar, Pemba Island, Mauritius, Reunion Island, Maldives, Seychelles, Madagascar, Mozambique Islands) Day trips (Wine tours, Cape Point, Table Mountain, Township Tours) Activities (Shark cage diving, helicopter trips, hot air ballooning, abseiling, sky diving, horse riding, canopy tours, bungee jumping, river rafting) BIGGEST CHALLENGE The greatest challenge is to be constantly proactive and creative. It is also important to stay focused and positive during quiet periods and keep on searching for business leads. BEST ADVICE YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN To never give up on a great idea. YOUR BEST TIPS LEARNED Always be willing to assist a client in any way even if you do not deliver a specific service. Learn how to outsource in order to still give great service. LOCATION Equestria, Pretoria CONTACT DETAILS Mobile: +27 (0) 83 662 1553 Email: [email protected] www.travelsouthernafrica.co.za www.luxuryhoneymoonsinafrica.com Facebook page: Blue Elephant Experiences
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