Kim Van Der Westhuizen
My job in tourism became my life. In my role as head of inbound travel at Live the Journey, my team and I focus on creating a full experience for the international traveler to our amazing home country, South Africa, and neighboring countries. After 18 years in the industry and prior to that living in Europe, I can honestly say that my love for Southern Africa has just grown even stronger. Each request we assist with, we look at it with a view of showing off our home. I still travel abroad a few times a year, because I love to see the world, but also because coming back one are always reminded by the wonders on our own doorstep.
What places and activities do you specialize in?
"Live the Journey specialize as a destination management company in Southern Africa which includes South Africa, Namibia, Botswana, Zambia, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. Our strength lies with leisure travel. We also specialize in Skeleton Coast, Namibia trips where our desert guides take guests into a protected area which allows limited access.... A Truly unique and special excursion and the best way of experiencing Namibia Desert."
How did you get involved in travel?
"As a youngster I decided to travel and live in Europe....the 'bug' got me then.On my return I had the opportunity to help in a temporary position at a Tour Operator....and 18 years later never left the industry. Travelling Southern Africa is high on my priority list and I believe one can only understand the story once you've had a taster."
Please share a unique travel experience you will never forget.
"There are so many! This might not meet the approval of some, but please remember this was many years ago.....the days when elephant back safaris was still done. My husband an I were each on an elephant, strolling next to the Zambezi river and even crossing a few shallow streams. Next minute we hear extremely loud screaming and the elephant I was on came to a stand still....next minute baby calf came walking in underneath mamma elephant I was on and the scream was a reminder that it was time to feed. There I'm standing, in a shallow stream in Zambia, surrounded by African sunset, and waiting whilst mama was feeding her calf......I have a few other about being chased by Hippo in Zambia, chased by Elephants in Madikwe, chased by Rhino in Kruger National Park ......luckily all have happy endings!"