Trisha Wilson - Check In

Where are we?
In the middle of the South African bush. This hotel is not a camp, it is an experience.

How did you get here?
Private plane to a private helicopter.

Who are you sharing your room with?
All my best girlfriends.

Is there anything you would like waiting for you in your room on arrival?
A game ranger would be waiting to take us on an evening game drive complete with sundowners (cocktails) mid way through. Going on game drive is the best part of the experience! It is both relaxing and thrilling. One day we see a lion kill and the next day we see a mother rhino and her babies trotting through the savannah.

Who’s at the concierge desk?
Party planner extraordinaire, Colin Cowie. His fun outlook on life and wealth of knowledge on anything spectacular assures me that this stay is going to be quite memorable...we hit it off instantly. And, he is South African.

And the owner / manager?
The owner is someone whose vision is to change the face of hospitality in the wild forever.

Describe the hotel building, your room and the view...
Upon arrival I immediately notice the brilliance of the design. It is a Robinson Crusoe meets jungle tree-house dream world. The rich, rustic tent is like a cocoon: mosquito netting drapes over the bed with local flavour and culture incorporated into the artefact and handicraft accents. I like the wood used throughout – distressed rosewood. It reminds me that elegance does not have to be fussy. I look across the vast space and breathe in the open air and feel as if I have come home. My private deck is connected to a thatched daybed where I spend afternoons reading and bird watching. I am at one with nature while being so perfectly pampered at the same time. The space perfectly combines my two greatest passions: the wilderness of the bush, and the beauty and comfort that starts with great architecture.

What’s the restaurant / bar like?
The bar / restaurant design combines African drama with sophistication. Large, blazing fireplaces are revealed with accents of shimmering silver and crystal lamps, Persian carpets and carved rich mahogany dining furniture.

Who are you dining with this evening?
1. Fred Astaire
2. My Grandmother
3. Naeem Khan
4. Bono
5. Leigh Anne Tuohy
6. A family of monkeys hanging out in a tree overhead

Who’s manning the stoves?
One of Dallas’ most talented chefs, Dean Fearing.

And what’s on the menu?
Starter: Rocket salad with freshly shaved parmesan
Main: Woodfire grilled chicken with roasted vegetables
Dessert: Chocolate soufflé

Would you like something to drink with that?
A margarita.

What CDs would like in your room?
1. John Coltrane
2. UB40
3. U2
4. Willie Nelson
5. Stevie Wonder

What’s on the movie channel?
We are in the bush – there isn’t a television!

And a book at bedtime?
My red notebook to jot down a collection of thoughts from each day.

What’s in the mini-bar for a night cap?
Chocolate and more chocolate!

Would you like a newspaper or magazine in the morning?
The Harvard Business Journal.

What toiletries would you like to freshen up with?
Natural soap and water – we get back to basics in the bush!