Chris Goldring

Chris' love of systems and expertise in Artificial Intelligence has been crucial to the development of Mahlatini's watertight processes and delivery of a seamless customer service.

Naturally, after pursuing an initial career path in banking, financial protection is another of his paramount concerns. Chris has forged a strong partnership with the Travel Trust Association which means clients' money is protected in a trust fund until they return home.

African Countries Visited

• South Africa
• Namibia
• Botswana
• Mauritius
• Zambia
• Zimbabwe
• Kenya

MOST MEMORABLE TRIP

When my kids were very young, I took my family and in-laws on a multi-centre trip across South Africa. I worried it was a little ambitious, but our family-moon now rivals my honeymoon as my ultimate travel experience. My kids were treated like royalty, particularly at the One & Only, Cape Town and Grootbos, Garden Route. A highlight was an early morning whale watching trip in Hermanus with my son... topped only by observing my kids during their first safari game drive. The Lion King movie was unfolding for real in front of their eyes and the looks of wonder on their faces was priceless.

My travel wish-list

My dream is to hike in the Virunga Mountains in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park - the scenery looks spectacular and chance encounters with the endangered mountain gorillas would be an unforgettable experience.

Favourite Lodge

To fuel my golf addiction, I keep returning to Fancourt along South Africa's beautiful Garden Route. With 3 quite different championship courses, it is great fun but also challenging. I'm always welcomed back like an old friend... it's my home away from home.

Favourite Safari Animal

It has always been the King of the Jungle... there is no substitute to watching lions in their natural environment. I still feel a primal fear and excitement every time I'm fortunate enough to watch these majestic beasts playing with their family, eating or sunning themselves.

THE BEST BITS

Amazing client feedback has always been the most motivating and rewarding aspect of the job. We take every client's trip personally and our business model is centred on delivering ultimate customer service levels. To see our client satisfaction levels remain consistently at over 98%, even during periods of exponential company growth, is testimony to a great team.

BEST #MAHLATINIMOMENT

Too many to single out one - but I get a real thrill every time we have a new member join the growing team. Mahlatini is like a family and most of the original staff members are still with us. It’s been particularly rewarding to see the Cape Town office continue to grow and bring fresh perspectives to the Mahlatini culture.