Shongwe Selection, Victoria Falls, 2-Night Prize Giveaway!

Starting Shongwe Selection in Victoria Falls

Rael Zieve: Welcome, Jamie Henson from the Shongwe selection. Tell me about your property.

Jaime Henson: Thanks, Rael. Shongwe Lookout came about unexpectedly. I was homesick for Zimbabwe while living in New Zealand. When the opportunity arose, I sold everything and moved back to start a boutique lodge in Victoria Falls with no prior experience. I approached it with fresh eyes.

Rael Zieve: So no hospitality background?

Jaime Henson: None. I’m a trained scientist, but frequent travel for work taught me about good service. I learned from a demanding colleague what top-notch hospitality looks like. It’s simple—offer guests what you’d want yourself. That’s part of why we focused on creating luxury accommodation near Victoria Falls.

Core Values and Guest Experience

Rael Zieve: Is service central to your business values?

Jaime Henson: Absolutely. Our three core values are friendliness, cleanliness, and timeliness. We hire based on attitude and smiles, not skills. Skills can be taught, but a genuine smile can’t. Cleanliness applies to everything from plates to sheets, and timeliness ensures guests’ time isn’t wasted. This focus is crucial in maintaining our reputation as a boutique lodge in Victoria Falls.

Shongwe Training and Staff Development

Rael Zieve: What about staff development and training?

Jaime Henson: We have a robust intern program, partnering with local universities. We train and then hire standout graduates. This creates healthy competition among interns eager for a role with us. It’s essential for upholding the standards expected from luxury accommodation near Victoria Falls.

Conservation and Sustainability Initiatives

Rael Zieve: What conservation efforts are you involved in?

Jaime Henson: We were the first Vic Falls lodge to adopt EcoDrop, reducing plastic bottle use by providing reusable bottles and refill stations. Since we led this, other lodges and restaurants have followed. We also support EleCrew, which turns plastic waste into building materials. Our next lodge, a boutique lodge in Victoria Falls, is being built using this recycled aggregate.

Rael Zieve: How are you working with neighboring hotels?

Jaime Henson: EcoDrop and EleCrew are expanding across the border into Zambian hotels and Livingston. We can handle their plastic waste too.

Unique Offerings and Future Projects at Shongwe Selection

Rael Zieve: Do tourists stay long enough in Vic Falls?

Jaime Henson: No, most regret not staying longer. We offer specials for stays of three nights or more, with perks like tram rides, massages, or free e-bike use. Ideally, visitors should stay four days to fully enjoy the experience without rushing. This is why our luxury accommodation near Victoria Falls encourages extended stays.

Rael Zieve: Why do visitors come for such short stays?

Jaime Henson: Historically, Vic Falls was a quick stopover to see the falls. But now there are family-friendly activities, new businesses, and a thriving community. We’re marketing longer packages to shift perceptions.

Rael Zieve: What’s life like in Vic Falls for young families?

Jaime Henson: It’s incredible. My kids grow up outdoors with wildlife at their doorstep. The local school is small but excellent, emphasizing old-school values and fitness. Safety here is unparalleled. We don’t lock doors or cars. The biggest risk at night is running into wildlife, not people.

Rael Zieve: What sets Shongwe apart from larger hotels?

Jaime Henson: Travelers now seek intimate, boutique experiences. At Shongwe, we know your name and provide personalized service. There’s been a surge in small lodges run by owner-operators, and the community collaborates rather than competes. Our adults-only lodge in Victoria Falls, Shongwe Oasis, caters specifically to guests looking for a quieter, more refined stay.

Rael Zieve: Any memorable experiences from Vic Falls?

Jaime Henson: Walking into the back of an elephant is unforgettable. Rafting the Zambezi and flipping over repeatedly is another. Living here feels like a dream—buffalo crossings on the school run remind me daily.

Prize Giveaway at Shongwe Selection

Rael Zieve: How big is Shongwe Lookout, and what about your new project?

Jaime Henson: Shongwe Lookout has 23 rooms. We opened Shongwe Oasis, an adults-only lodge in Victoria Falls with 19 rooms, in August 2022. It’s been nearly full since launch. We’re now building a more luxurious lodge with features like a swim-up bar, campfire pool, and underground cellar. It’s designed to be fun, different, and highly Instagrammable, set to open in July next year. This will further enhance our luxury accommodation near Victoria Falls.

Rael Zieve: Can you tell listeners about the giveaway?

Jaime Henson: Sure. We’re giving away two nights for two at either of the Shongwe selection properties, with breakfast included. Plus, a historical talk on the Vic Falls Bridge. But I’d recommend booking additional nights to make the most of it.

Rael Zieve: Thank you, Jamie. Best of luck with the future and thanks for the giveaway.

Jaime Henson: Thanks, Rael. It’s been a pleasure.

Interested in finding out more about great deals to Zimbabwe, please feel free to email rael@wildsunsets.travel or check out some of our specials at www.wildsunsets.travel