TravelManagers' Kylie McDougall was recently invited to travel to Zimbabwe and Botswana by African Wildlife Safaris and South African Airways. The aim of the exercise was to showcase both countries as a luxury destination.

Kylie Mc Dougall, TravelManagers representative on this Agent's Educational while on safari on the Chobe River

Whilst seen as a trip of a lifetime by Ms McDougall, she was quick to recognise the importance of the opportunity not only to extend her own knowledge of both countries but the benefits for her clients.

"Traditionally people have seen Africa as a young person's destination, centred on back packing but the high-end product offering is simply stunning and perfect for the personal travel manager clientele."

Ms McDougal says highlights included staying at The Hide in the Hwange National Park and a cruise down the Chobe River which separates Botswana and Namibia, on the new 'Zambezi Queen'.

"It was simply breathtaking. To get a true feeling of being in Africa and seeing an abundance of wildlife in their natural surroundings I would highly recommend my clients stay at The Hide in Hwange National Park. This tented safari camp is a haven for wildlife and one of Africa's premier game parks.

"The Zambezi Queen River Boat is brand new and beautiful. It is complete luxury and the staff onboard are very friendly and knowledgeable about the river, making it a memorable stay."

Ms McDougall says there is an opportunity while staying on the river boat to be taken on land for safari game drives through Chobe National Park.

"In addition to this you can also opt to take part in small boat trips down the Chobe River. This is well worthwhile providing opportunities to get close to bathing elephants, hippos, crocodiles and many other animals in their natural habitat, down at the water's edge for an afternoon drink."

Ms McDougall says opportunities such as this one are the ultimate in professional development.

"You just learn so much and pick up invaluable information to pass on to clients. I am hugely aware of the investment African Wildlife Safaris and South African Airways put into this trip but rest assured I am already securing sales with my clients."

She says being able to speak first-hand about side trips and their value is a huge benefit.

"Saying I've heard it is fantastic just doesn't cut it with high-end clients. They want to know you've experienced it and what you think, is it worth doing. A great example is taking part in a 'Boma' dinner."

The Boma is an outdoor gathering where you are able to eat a buffet style selection of meats.

"It is great to be able to say I ate impala, kudu, buffalo and crocodile and then describe what they tasted like. To be able to talk about the dancing, the music and the star gazing show at the end of the night, where the locals point out the large array of stars and planets that can be seen from the vast open land you are on. No book or research on Google allows you to truly describe that and I am truly grateful to African Wildlife Safaris and South African Airways for this unforgettable experience."

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