Johannesburg - We chat to Marcel von Aulock, CEO of Tsogo Sun, about his best and worst travel memories.
First holiday memory?
We used to go away nearly every holiday as a family. My dad took us all over the country. I can’t remember which is earlier, but it’s either running on the beach at Kleinmond or visits to the Kruger Park, where Pretoriuskop was my favourite camp.
Favourite place in South Africa?
I still love the bush very much, and Kruger in all its forms, from luxury private camps to basic Parks Board accommodation. The guided walks would be my favourite.
Best holiday?
Our first trip to Tuscany was a special three weeks. I’d been to Europe many times, but never experienced rural Italy in summer. It completely changed my rather Germanic view of Europe. For pure relaxation, you’d have to try hard to beat 10 days at the Paradise Sun in the Seychelles. I’m very glad Tsogo bought it all those years ago.
What have you learnt from your travels?
Philosophically, that it’s a big world out there and there’s much to learn – including the fact that many of our problems as South Africans are not unique, and our opportunities are plenty. On a more practical note, pack light. You can always buy what you really need. The less you carry, the easier the trip.
Ideal travelling companion?
My wife Leigh loves travelling, which makes every trip a joy.
Beach bum, culture vulture or adrenalin junkie?
Beach bum or bush baby, and I’m the most happy.
Greatest travel luxury?
Emirates First Class – it’s magnificent.
Holiday reading?
Adventure novels by authors such as Wilbur Smith, and then whatever crime story Leigh’s brought along, if it’s not too gruesome.
Which place has seduced you?
The Okavango Delta in Botswana – I figured I knew the bush pretty well, but I never imagined a place like that. It’s almost prehistoric in its untouched beauty.
Worst travel experience?
I haven’t really had any bad travel, where I regretted going at all. There are places that I wouldn’t rush back to, but I’m glad I’ve seen them anyway.
Best hotel?
Clearly I have an emotional attachment to all the Tsogo Sun properties, so I won’t pick one of those. I am so impressed with how many of the lodges in the Okavango operate, what with their limited access to markets and goods. Kings Pool, operated by the Wilderness Safaris Group, is my favourite.
Favourite walk, swim, ride or drive?
Walk.
Best meal abroad?
Bizarrely, the Rib Eye steak at Warren Buffet’s favourite steakhouse (in Omaha, Nebraska) called Gorats. It was a really magnificent steak.
Favourite city?
I enjoy travelling to Zurich.
Where to next?
Walking holiday for a week, with friends in Tuscany in September. I can’t wait.
l Marcel von Aulock is the chief executive officer of Tsogo Sun.
Saturday Star