show episodes
 
Welcome to ‘Safari Conversations’ – the Singita Podcast. 30 years ago, our Founder, Luke Bailes, had a dream of creating a pioneering ecotourism brand that could help save pristine wilderness areas in Africa for future generations. The first chapter of this story started when we built Singita Ebony Lodge, in the Sabi Sand, in 1993. But truly, it began long before that, on a piece of land his grandfather owned and where they spent holidays as a family at Castleton. So much has happened in the ...
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Do you love having insider information when you travel - knowing the hidden gems and most authentic hotels? Do you love splurging on over the top experiences when they are absolutely worth it? When you go places do you enjoy staying active and exploring beyond the tourist areas? Do you believe amazing experiences are more valuable than buying another thing? Then you are in the right place. Join me each week for a rich conversation with one of my favorite travel experts from around the world. ...
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show series
 
Get ready to be inspired! In this episode, we're joined by two amazing women from the Grumeti Fund (GF), Singita's conservation partner in Tanzania, Skyler Nuelle (Head - Partnerships & Impact Analysis) and Frida Mollel (Head of Community Outreach Programme). Frida shares her inspirational story of overcoming cultural barriers to get an education i…
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We meet two dynamic women in senior management at Singita Grumeti, Tanzania. Bronwyn Laing (GM at Singita Serengeti) chats to Joyce Moikangoe (Lodge Manager at Singita Sasakwa Lodge) about female leadership and how they lift others as they climb. Joyce was born in Tanzania, studied in South Africa, then returned home to give back and be a part of s…
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Ever wonder how Singita transforms Tanzanian nature lovers into the polished, knowledgeable guides leading their exceptional game drives? Ross Couper (Singita's resident photographer and former guide), sits down with Grant Telfer, the (Head of Singita's Guide Training in Tanzania), to get the recipe. From a Singita field guide in South Africa, Gran…
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In the Western corridor of the Serengeti lies a 350,000-acre game reserve that’s been protected by NGO, the Grumeti Fund, for the last 20 years in partnership with the Tanzanian government, creating opportunities for communities too. (It’s also Singita’s amazing conservation partner in Tanzania.) The landscape was devoid of wildlife when they start…
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Today, we're taking a trip back to where it all began – Singita Ebony, nestled in the shade of giant trees along the Sand River, in Sabi Sand. It's not just a lodge; it's the beginning of our 30-year journey and a beacon of our 100-year purpose, filled with memories for many people. Under ancient Ebony trees, the Bailes family brought their dream o…
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In this episode, we meet Singita’s Head Chef at Singita Volcanoes National Park, in Rwanda. Vanie Padayachee chats to Sharon Machira, a journalist, content creator and Podcaster in Kenya, about a previous visit to spill the beans (and the gooseberries) about the on-site nursery called ‘Akarabo’ (meaning Little Flower) and the food philosophy here. …
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We meet two of Singita’s dynamic head chefs based at lodges in Tanzania and Rwanda. While the local ingredients and menus are entirely different, they have a lot in common. Mia Neethling, Singita’s Executive Chef in Tanzania, and Vanie Padayachee, Head Chef In Rwanda, chat with two lodge managers in Tanzania about the food served at Singita Grumeti…
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Conservation success stories from the Ecologist of 27 years. Singita Photographer and former guide, Ross Couper, chats to Sarah Clegg, Ecologist at Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve in Zimbabwe, where Singita has two lodges: Singita Pamushana & Malilangwe House. The Malilangwe Trust is our conservation partner in Zimbabwe, responsible for far-reaching co…
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Design and creativity form part of Singita’s DNA. Showcasing the creative talent found in Africa is one of the ways we celebrate the culture and heritage of this continent. Over the last 30 years, Singita has been creating pioneering hospitality experiences, and design has formed a large part of our visible identity. Singita has worked with the sam…
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Two seasoned photographers on different continents share their views on the role incredible images and emotive videos play in marketing ecotourism in Africa and how they both stumbled into their current careers, almost by accident. Ross Couper has been with Singita for ten years and is now the resident Content Creator supplying the Marketing team w…
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In this episode, well-known travel journalist Richard Holmes talks to Dr. Andrea Ferry, Sustainability Co-ordinator at Singita. They discuss sustainability in the world of luxury travel, and especially safari travel. Many travellers don't think too carefully about just what's being done to protect the wilderness areas they visit. Part of the proble…
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This is Safari Conversations – the Singita Podcast. 30 years ago, founder Luke Bailes had a dream of creating a pioneering ecotourism brand that could help save pristine wilderness areas in Africa for future generations. The first chapter in Singita’s story started when Ebony Lodge opened in the Sabi Sand, in 1993. But truly, it began long before t…
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If you love the Adventures in Luxury Travel podcast, you are going to LOVE the newsletter even more! We open our Little Black Book and share our favorite highlights and hidden gems from around the world every Wednesday morning in your inbox. You’ll be in the know about coveted places – like the hottest new hotel in Italy, the best coffee shop in Ca…
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Join James and me to learn about Ol Donyo, one of my favorite safari lodges in Kenya. Situated on the border of Chyulu Hills National Park, this lodge has both incredible wildlife viewing and as a Relais & Chateaux property, delicious food. There is so much to love about Ol Donyo - the hide, the views, the rooms, the active adventures, and most imp…
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Join Mili and me to learn about the architecturally impressive Hotel AWA, a remote, boutique property on the edge of beautiful Lake Llanquihue on the northern edge of Patagonia. The views from the rooms (and the pool) are stunning! Mili shares that AWA was the first Certified B corp hotel in Chile and how they took the initiative to expand their of…
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Join Jennifer and me to learn about this serene spot in the cloud forest of Costa Rica. As it is a Relais & Chateaux property, you know the food will be divine whether you are eating in the dining room, taking a picnic on a hike to a waterfall, or having a private lunch at a special spot next to the river. Their location affords them many on and of…
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Join Matt and me to learn about one of the most unique accommodations you’ll ever experience. Matt shares how his family collaborated with the local community and government to create a sustainable resort that adds value to those who work there, live nearby, and those fortunate to visit. It is an incredible example of doing well by doing good. And …
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Join Marne and me as we talk about one of the most remote accommodations in the world. Perched on the top of a rock outcropping in the middle of Denali National Park, you will find the one and only Sheldon Chalet. We’ll learn the family history of how this remarkable place came to be and why guests feel so fortunate to be able to experience it. Go …
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Join Mike and me as we talk about Tordrillo Mountain Lodge, the place where we had our family’s favorite vacation of all time and where I checked off my #1 bucket list item – the one and only via ferrata in Alaska. TML is a place for being active, adventurous, and luxuriating. They are an ideal destination for families with a range of interests and…
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Join Rose and me as we talk about Eleven Experience, one of my favorite travel companies. Eleven’s quest is to create experiences where guests lay down their heads at night with the feeling they just had the BEST. DAY. EVER. Eleven has lodges all over the world and today we talk about two – Deplar Farm and Rio Palena. Visit truvaytravel.com/50 for …
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Join Patricia and me as we talk about Belize, a small country in Central America with a lot of adventures. As in Costa Rica, the activities and exploration happens along the coast as well as inland, and we suggest both for your trip to Belize. We talk about the marine life you will see while snorkeling or scuba diving – manta rays, sharks, turtles,…
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Join Maita and me as we talk about Uruguay, an under-the-radar destination for Americans. We’ll introduce you to the hip José Ignacio, the “Hamptons” of South America, and the cosmopolitan city of Montevideo. We’ll explore the active adventures on land like learning to play polo, going for a moonlit horseback ride, and hiking. We’ll touch on the va…
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Join Agustina and me as we talk about hiking hut-to-hut (or 5* hotel to 5* hotel) in the Dolomite mountains of Italy. This magnificent mountain range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The views include giant peaks, lush green pastures, and spectacular sunsets. We talk about the 8 questions to ask yourself before you begin planning a hut-to-hut hikin…
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Join Anastasia and me as we talk about Puerto Rico. The UNESCO site of La Fortaleza in Old San Juan is historically significant and also a relaxing place to spend a weekend afternoon with locals. The beaches on the main island, Vieques and Culebra are vast and beautiful, even more so when watching the sunset at the end of the day. The adventures of…
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Join Alfonso and me as we talk about San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Walking charming cobblestone streets, listening to bands in the main square, exploring art galleries, and enjoying relaxing evenings on rooftops while watching the setting sun are just a few of the ways you will enjoy yourself in this Mexico-designated Pueblo Magico. While you are …
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Join Lylie and me as we talk about the East African safari destination of Tanzania. Why select Tanzania for your safari destination? For so many reasons. Tanzania has the big 5, hippos, zebras, chimpanzees and it’s the best country to see the migration of 2,000,000 wildebeest. You’ll meet and learn about some of the 130+ tribes and experience the w…
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Join Cristina and me as we talk about Colombia. Colombia has emerged from a complicated past to be a country where you can enjoy the culture, fashion, art, and some of the world’s best restaurants in its cities. Or splurge on a helicopter to an experience that’s been called a “dream come true.” Learn about our favorite beach clubs, rooftop bars and…
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Join Sean and me as we take what’s perceived as a confusing and boring topic and make it easier to understand and interesting. We will not simply tell you that you should get travel insurance. Instead, we will explain the various types of insurance and share when they are helpful and when they are not necessary. We’ll cover Cancel for Business Reas…
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Join Steve and me as we talk about helping people with one of the most rewarding experiences of their lives – taking a sabbatical. Steve and I have a shared love of many things – inspiring people to take sabbaticals, planning complicated itineraries (to plan sabbaticals that’s kind of a given), Latin America, and diving deep into our clients’ motiv…
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Join Greg and me as we talk about Russia. Many people are fascinated with Russia (me included). It’s the land where “everything is difficult, but nothing is impossible.” As we recorded this show, we acknowledge now is not the time to visit. We share information for when it is the time. St. Petersburg and Moscow are full of UNESCO sites, Michelin st…
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Join David and me as we talk about Cuba. Cuba is the largest and least commercialized Caribbean island. It’s a place where people live in the moment, where you are welcomed into the culture to learn, taste their food and experience their lifestyle. Visit UNESCO sites, eat the freshest ceviche, visit the birthplace of the mojito, Hemingway’s favorit…
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Join Wazha and me as we talk about Zambia. We talk about traditional and water-based safaris, the culture of the local tribes you will experience, and unique dining venues. We also share all of the adventures you can have at Victoria Falls including white water rafting, ATVing, hiking, and going up in a microlight (on my personal list). And of cour…
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Join Hannah and me as we talk about active trips with Backroads Travel. If you’ve never been on this type of trip and are curious to know if it’s right for your family, Hannah answers many of your questions about what it’s really like. She shares what types of activities travelers do on multi-adventure trips and the varying levels of hotels they st…
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Join Scott and me as we talk about Namibia. Even more so than other African safari destinations, Namibia is a photographer’s dream. We take you to the desolate beauty of Deadvlei, the shipwrecks on the Skeleton Coast, and kayaking with seals in Walvis Bay. We touch on the culture and history of the local tribes and the ancient cave paintings that h…
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Join Drew and me as we talk about Australia. Australia is an ideal destination as it combines the best of active and adventurous travel, with incredible restaurants, wineries, people, and accommodations. We talk about experiences you can have near the Great Barrier Reef, the Outback, Tasmania, and other islands. We also touch on animal encounters -…
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Join Warren and me as we talk about Kenya. We talk about the best times and places to see the Great Migration, and the variety of game drives you can go on outside of a vehicle. We touch on the special people to meet and the cultural experiences to have with the Samburu and Masai tribes and learn about when it’s possible to see the singing wells. A…
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Join Dylan and me as we talk about the resilient country of Rwanda. We dive into what a day of gorilla trekking is really like and why it’s such a magical experience. We talk about the difference between trekking from Rwanda and Uganda and you’ll learn which is Dylan’s favorite. We touch on the culture of Rwanda’s people and how warm and welcoming …
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Join Richard and me as we talk about what it takes to hike Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak. Knowing what to expect is a key component of a successful summit. We share all the important big and small details so you know what you are signing up for. Safety standards, appropriate outfitting, and highly skilled guides are an absolute must for yo…
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Join Sandra and me as we talk about visiting Botswana, one of the most exclusive and expensive safari destinations. The Okavango Delta is bursting with wildlife which changes with the seasons as the plains flood. You may see a lion giving birth near your room, elephants walking right in front of your plunge pool, or the second largest zebra migrati…
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Join Lylie and me as we talk about how to begin thinking of planning your first safari. We then dive into South Africa and the incredible wildlife you will see on your journey. We also talk about the most luxurious lodges and how they compare. Although safaris are a lot about seeing wildlife, we’ll also touch on the many other experiences you can h…
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Join Jim and me as we talk about combining golfing with culture and being active in Ireland. Of course, we talk about the best golf courses, including Hogs Head, Waterville, and Lahinch. Then we go beyond the course and explore the pubs, restaurants, and cultural activities. We share our favorite castles to stay in including Ballyfin, Adare, Gregan…
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Join Tomas and me as we talk about the bucket-list destination of the Maldives. There are over 1000 islands and 140+ resorts. We talk about the best ones, including Six Senses, Soneva, Joali, Waldorf Astoria, and One and Only. We share how they are different and help you figure out which is best for you. Tomas shares his favorite restaurants, from …
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Join Sarah and me as we talk about Chile, an amazing destination to explore, immerse yourself in the culture, enjoy incredible food and taste delicious Chilean wines. Visiting Chile gives you access to wild and remote places like Patagonia, Atacama, Chiloe, and Easter Island, where you can hike, bike, white water raft, fish, and surf. The capital o…
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Join Val and me as we talk about why the T&C are such a popular destination. We’ll share our favorite beach restaurants and fine dining. We’ll tell you all about the amazing adventures you can have above and below the water. And we’ll dive into hotels like the new Ritz Carlton, Amanyara, Shore Club, and Wymara. Visit truvaytravel.com/26 for a video…
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Spain is a country near and dear to my heart, as I lived there for a year on our family sabbatical with my teens. Join Nigel and me as we talk about traveling to Spain and share active, culinary, and cultural highlights. We’ll share our favorite hotels, including Puente Romano, Belmond La Residencia, and the new Four Seasons Madrid. And we’ll tell …
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Join Santiago and me as we talk about traveling to Ecuador. This is a country that is made for families. There are awe-inspiring wildlife encounters, colorful culture, and active adventures. There are also incredible luxury accommodations like Pikai Lodge and Mashpi Lodge. Often people wonder if they should see the Galapagos by boat or stay on land…
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