David Livingstone Hotel & Spa

Dear Mr van Raaij and Team

Let me begin by saying that only once before was I so surprised but not this much impressed, by the service and hospitality shown to me or my group at a conference venue or hotel.  I have 15 years experience in the events and conference industry, all over the world.  This does not make me important at all, but it makes me experienced, fussy and critical.  The attention to detail overwhelmed me and I could not help complimenting you and your staff.  My week at David Livingstone Safari Lodge and Spa was a truly unique and satisfying experience.  The rooms and gardens and facilities are all first class.  I have a very simple way to judge a place:  check that all the globes work, especially the ones in the hard to reach places.  Full score there.

Right from the start I felt like part of the team, as opposed to so often I am the enemy of incompetent and unwilling, or lazy hotel staff.  Marike called a meeting with the team shortly after my arrival, and this really made an impression and set the tone for the rest of the week.

I can imagine what it takes to keep this boat afloat, especially in the current economic climate. If you can weather it through this, this hotel will be very successful, if you can instill the basic principles here to stay even after you have chosen to leave for a new adventure.  I can see a strong GM at the helm of this ship.  Mr van Raaij, I would go blindly with a group of any size to a hotel where you are in charge.

Thank you so much for exceptional service and personal attention.  I congratulate you with what you have done here in a short time.  Well done to everyone on your team, even if I do not remember all the names.  Every person is important in the bigger scheme of things.  Every single person working here should value his / her own contribution and be proud of a job very well done.  And they should be proud working for you.

My best regards
Dalène du Plessis.