Welcome
Rael Zieve: Welcome, I’m Rael Zieve, your host for “Keep Travelling Your African Vacation,” the podcast that provides insights into the African tourism industry from real professionals. In this fourth episode, I’m excited to introduce my guest, Leroy Ferreira, Director of Sales and Marketing at Fancourt Hotel and Resort. Welcome, Leroy!
Leroy Ferreira: Thanks for having me! We often refer to it simply as Fancourt, which embodies our identity as a luxury resort, golf resort, lifestyle resort, and family resort.
Rael Zieve: Absolutely, Fancourt is a unique destination. Can you share a bit about your background and how you reached your current role?
Leroy Ferreira: I’ve spent my entire career in hospitality, celebrating 25 years now. After years in the Eastern Cape, my family and I chose to move to the Garden Route, where I joined Fancourt Hotel ten years ago. I worked my way up to the Director of Sales and Marketing role about four years ago, and thankfully, I still enjoy my daily interactions with guests!
Rael Zieve: Speaking of guests, why should people visit Fancourt Hotel, particularly those from overseas?
Why Visit?
Leroy Ferreira: The appeal of Fancourt Hotel extends beyond typical tourist attractions. Our returning guests often describe their experience as a luxury journey that is unique to our resort. While many hotels offer five-star service, our team at Fancourt creates an unmatched atmosphere of hospitality. The Garden Route, with its stunning landscapes, adds to the allure, making it a special choice for international visitors who might not even know where George is!
Rael Zieve: It sounds like the team plays a crucial role in the guest experience.
Leroy Ferreira: Absolutely. Our team is committed to addressing any issues before they escalate. We prioritize direct communication with guests and ensure they feel valued. Each complaint is handled by the most senior staff member on duty to assure guests that their concerns matter.
How?
Rael Zieve: For international guests planning a trip, how does Fancourt Hotel help them with their itinerary?
Leroy Ferreira: We typically offer packages for three, five, or seven-night stays, which are ideal for travelers exploring South Africa. We can assist in arranging itineraries that include Fancourt Hotel, allowing guests to enjoy the beautiful Garden Route while balancing their travel schedules.
Rael Zieve: Are you collaborating with travel operators to create these packages?
Leroy Ferreira: Yes, we work with various DMCs and travel agents. We provide options for guests depending on whether they contact us directly or go through an agent. Our goal is to ensure they maximize their time at Fancourt Hotel and the surrounding areas.
Conserve
Rael Zieve: Sustainability is a hot topic in tourism. What initiatives is Fancourt Hotel implementing in this regard?
Leroy Ferreira: COVID-19 brought some challenges to our sustainability goals, especially with the resurgence of single-use plastics. However, we’re part of Leading Hotels of the World, which provides us with guidelines to reduce plastic use and promote sustainability. For example, we’ve shifted to glass water bottles on the Fancourt Golf Course and are committed to further reducing our plastic footprint.
Our People
Rael Zieve: Human resources are vital in hospitality. What programs does Fancourt have for local talent development?
Leroy Ferreira: It’s a double-edged sword. We focus on nurturing local talent through internships and training programs. However, many young professionals leave for bigger cities or international opportunities shortly after gaining experience with us. Still, we aim to provide a solid foundation for their careers.
Golf
Rael Zieve: You’re launching a new golf course, correct? Tell us about it.
Leroy Ferreira: Yes! We’re nearing completion on a new nine-hole championship course designed by Gary Player, adjacent to the existing Fancourt Golf Course. Named the Links Experience, this course is designed to reflect traditional links-style golfing, but with a wall-to-wall golf cart path to maintain playability even in wet conditions.
Rael Zieve: What can guests expect in terms of accessibility for this new course?
Leroy Ferreira: While the original Links course has certain exclusivity restrictions, the Links Experience will be more accessible to a wider range of players. It’s perfect for quick games, allowing guests to enjoy a round without committing a whole day.
Rael Zieve: How do you envision the future of tourism in South Africa over the next five to ten years?
Leroy Ferreira: The landscape is shifting rapidly, particularly with technology. Travelers are increasingly reliant on their devices for bookings and information. We need to adapt to these changes and harness artificial intelligence to enhance the guest experience while ensuring our marketing strategies resonate with future travellers.
Giveaway
Rael Zieve: It sounds like you’ve had an interesting career. Can you share a memorable experience?
Leroy Ferreira: One standout moment was hosting Prince Harry and Prince William at a hotel in Port Elizabeth for an event before the World Cup. We had to manage a large group of bikers while also accommodating a wedding, and I ended up coordinating with Prince Harry to ensure everything went smoothly. It was quite a fun challenge!
Rael Zieve: That’s an incredible story! Before we wrap up, can you tell us about the prize giveaway for our listeners?
Leroy Ferreira: Absolutely! We’re offering a two-night stay for two at Fancourt Hotel, including breakfast, available for travel between late April and the end of October 2025. We encourage winners to plan ahead, as availability can fill up quickly!
Rael Zieve: Thank you, Leroy, for sharing your insights and experiences with us today!
Leroy Ferreira: It’s been a pleasure. Thank you for having me!
Interested in finding out more about great deals to South Africa, please feel free to email rael@wildsunsets.travel or check out some of our specials at www.wildsunsets.travel