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Today, Norm Goldman, Editor of sketchandtravel.com is pleased to have as our guest, Sarah Fazendin who is the President of The Fazendin Portfolio. Sarah is an expert on African safaris in Ethiopia, Kenya and East Africa. Sarah previously managed all marketing and representation activity in North America for the Kenya Tourist Board.
Good day Sarah and thank you for participating in our interview.
Norm:
Please tell our readers something about your educational and professional background and how you became interested in promoting Safaris to Africa?
Sarah:
Like most people in the travel industry, travel has been a lifelong passion of mine. After spending several years working in advertising agencies, I landed the job as North American Marketing Manager for the Kenya Tourist Board. While I knew advertising and marketing, I didn't know much about Africa. So at that point I launched myself into learning as much as I could about the African continent Before I knew it, I had spent several months in Kenya, met some wonderful friends and learned the ins and outs of travel to Africa. When it came time to launch The Fazendin Portfolio, I was able to use my relationships both here in North America as well as on the ground in Africa (and of course a good dose of passion for travel to Africa!) to create a successful company.
Norm:
What is The Fazendin Portfolio?
Sarah:
The Fazendin Portfolio is a sales, marketing and public relations consulting firm working exclusively with African travel companies. All too often, African travel companies struggle to tap into the North American market and end up losing a lot of time and money in the process. We are here to be their voice on the ground in North America, and present their classic African travel experiences to travelers here. We are happy to talk with travelers or travel agents at any time and love helping people select the African travel experience that is right for them.
Norm:
Could you tell our readers something about the African Safaris you promote, what to expect, how much do they cost, accommodations, food, etc?
Sarah:
The Fazendin Portfolio represents a variety of African safaris throughout Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda. Depending on time, budget and travel style, our travel providers can arrange something for everyone. The average safari starts around US$3,000 per person. Accommodation on these trips are typically in game lodges which are basically hotels in the bush that can accommodate up to 100 people at a time or more. The smaller and more exclusive the property, the more expensive the experience will be.
One thing all travelers should realize is that African safaris are totally customizable. Its best to start by doing some research online about travel to Africa. The Fazendin Portfolio is a great place to start to determine basically what you are looking for in a travel experience. Then, contact us for more information and we can provide customized itineraries to meet your needs.
Norm:
If someone were traveling from North America or Europe, where do they pick up these Safaris and do you promote transportation from the airport to the starting point?
Sarah:
Most flights to Africa go via Amsterdam or London. When you book a flight with an airline such as Kenya Airways (the largest airline to serve East Africa), they will book you on a partner flight from North America (such as KLM or United) to either Amsterdam or London. This is typically an overnight flight (8 hours). The flights from Europe to Nairobi are also 8 hours, and both day and overnight flights are available.
Norm:
How safe are these Safaris?
Sarah:
A safari in Eastern Africa is very safe. The tourism infrastructure is well developed and The Fazendin Portfolio partners have all been in the industry for many years and have the support network in place to deal with most any issue. The guides used are all well-trained and understand the habits and temperaments of the wildlife and know how to keep guests out of harms way. Of course, when traveling abroad common sense is everyone's best friend.
Norm:
Would you recommend a Safari as a honeymoon or romantic destination? If so, why?
Sarah:
Absolutely, in fact I honeymooned in Kenya a few years ago! The whole idea of safari started over 100 years ago in Kenya, when the European settlers packed up grand expeditions and ventured out into the African bush. These were always extravagant and luxurious experiences- complete with champagne and fine china.
Today the African safari remains an inherently luxurious experience and it is an understatement to say that all your needs are catered for. Honeymooners will find themselves in a land where time stands still and the wonders of the African bush are theirs to explore.
There are many exclusive lodges and tented camps in East Africa that offer the highest level of privacy and luxury. Additionally, there is no better way to end an African safari or a honeymoon than lounging on the stunning white sand beaches of the Indian Ocean coast for a few days. The islands of Lamu (Kenya) and Zanzibar (Tanzania) are amazing both aesthetically and culturally.
Norm:
If you had to choose seven of the most romantic and unique properties in Africa, which ones would they be and why?
Sarah:
Mara Explorer Located in the famous Masai Mara, this luxury tented camp boasts some of the most beautiful accommodations I've ever seen. Additionally, with only 12 tents, it is private and quiet. The food is exceptional and each tent has its own outdoor bathtub, perfect for a bubble bath after a long day out in the bush.
Kipungani Located off Lamu Island, the heart of East African Swahili Culture, Kipungani is the definition of Barefoot Luxury. This property is romantic, relaxing and a perfect way to unwind after a week on safari.
Elsa's Kopje Elsa's Kopje is one of only two properties in the Meru Game Reserve in Northern Kenya. This privacy allows for a quiet and personal experience.
Hippo Point Hippo Point is the pinnacle of Colonial Extravagance. Located on the banks of Lake Nakuru, this property is decorated with English antiques and the art of famous Kenyans.
Shompole Located in Kenya near the Tanzania boarder, Shompole has redefined luxury in Kenya. The privacy of Little Shompole is perfect for Honeymooners who demand utmost in privacy and luxury.
Any tented camping experience Don't let the word camping deceive. Luxury Tented Camping in East Africa is a large scale event, complete with comfortable beds and en suite bathrooms, full course meals and a high level of privacy and exclusivity one can not find in most camps and lodges.
Ngongoro Serena Lodge Lit by flaming wall-lanterns, clad in gigantic volcanic boulders and decorated by the iron spears, bright-beaded robes and intricately carven artifacts of the Maasai, the Lodge is a unique blend of world-class luxury, timeless volcanic splendour and ethnic style. As for the views, from lilac-streaked sunrise, to indigo star-studded night, the immeasurably ancient Ngorongoro Crater delivers a theatre of vistas, most unchanged since the dawn of time.
Norm:
How should one plan for a Safari from the point of view of packing your suitcase, inoculations, choosing the right Safari, length of stay, finding out about the different Safaris, etc?
Sarah:
The Express Travel Group Safari Planning A-Z is a great resource. Click here
Norm:
Is there anything else you wish to add that we have not covered?
Sarah:
Travel to Africa, for many, can be a life-changing experience. It's important to travel with an open mind and truly appreciate everything you're experiencing. Take time to ask lots of questions and learn about the people, the wildlife and the land while you are there. Enjoy!
Thanks once again and good luck with all of your future endeavors.
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