The Royal Portfolio has appointed Monica Chandra as their North American-based sales representative.

Chandra has held numerous senior positions win luxury associations and high-end travel brands, and has a wealth of experience in luxury African travel. She holds a BBA in International Marketing and has a particular passion for experiential travel.   

Simon Mandy, General Manager Sales and Marketing, said: “North America is an important source market for The Royal Portfolio and we’re confident that Monica will play an integral role in strengthening bonds with the luxury travel trade.”

Chandra will play a major part in strategically positioning The Royal Portfolio to travel advisors and tour operators across North America.

Mhondoro Safari Lodge and Villa appoints Deputy GM couple

Eric and Caroline Murahwa have been appointed as Deputy GM couple for Mhondoro Safari Lodge & Villa.

The International Hotel School graduates bring with them extensive experience in hospitaility and management, gained at various five-star luxury properties, including KwaZulu Natal hotels Karkloof Safari Spa, Hotel Izulu and Leading Hotels of the World properties The Oyster Box Hotel and Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve, as well as DeHoek Country Hotel in the Magaliesburg.

Both professionals are Zimbabwe born, and trained at the International Hotel School Durban.

Caroline began working as a receptionist and reception supervisor at Karkoof Safari Spa, after moving across to The Oyster Box Hotel where she was employed in the Guest Liaison department. She then moved to Executive Assistant to the CEO and Marketing Assistant at a financial services company, before returning to the hospitality industry at Thanda Private Game Reserve where she first worked as Front Office Manager, and then taking up the joint position of Assistant Lodge Manager.

Eric started his working career as Trainee Food & Beverage Manager at the Ilala Lodge Hotel in Victoria Falls, relocating to SA to start a career at Hotel Izulu as a Receptionist, before being promoted to duty manager. He later took up a position at The Oyster Box Hotel as Front Office Sift Lead and Front Office Supervisor. This was followed by a short span of time as Customer Relations Manager and Operations Manager at a sports gear company, before returning to his passion for the luxury travel industry he was appointed by Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve as Relief Lodge Manager and Rooms Division Manager. He was then employed as Hotel Operations Manager and Assistant GM at DeHoek Country Hotel.