Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa, on the banks of the glorious Lake Jozini in northern Zululand, has good reason to celebrate. They were recently awarded “Continent Winners-Luxury Hotel and Conference Centre” at the World Luxury Hotel Awards, held in Hong Kong on 24th October, 2015.
The World Luxury Hotel and Spa Awards are recognised as the pinnacle of achievement for Luxury Hotels & Spas worldwide. These Awards are a celebration of the ultimate achievement in service excellence, and acknowledge hotels and spas that have excelled beyond the normal call of duty. Awards are presented to luxury hotels in different categories, on a country, continent and global basis. Voting is cast by hotel guests, and based on facilities and service excellence.
“Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is no longer just a hotel on the banks of Lake Jozini,” announced Cobus Brecher, Managing Director, “It has become a serious contender and competitor within the luxury hotel market.”
They certainly deserve to be proud. A mere 5 years ago, in March 2010, the newly built Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa opened its doors. This was a dream project developed by local entrepreneurs, Cobus Brecher and Albert Lourens. Their vision included involving the National Empowerment Fund (NEF) to finance the community’s share. Shares were latterly sold to Durban businessman, Mr Alex Shazi.
80% of the staff were employed from the local community and had no previous experience within the hotel industry. They have since had the pleasure of witnessing the hotel successfully evolve. Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa is reputed for its exceptional service and friendly staff. Without their enormous contribution this award would not have been possible. The staff complement has expanded over the past five years as occupancies grew beyond expectation. Equally rewarding has been the transformation, growth and eventual promotion of some of the original staff into management positions.
The hotel also forms part of the AHA portfolio who look after the Sales and Marketing of the property. Occupancy levels are in excess of 76% with groups and conferencing markets forming a major contribution. The Jozini Tiger Estate, adjacent to the Jozini Tiger Lodge, will be launched imminently. The Estate offers the only freehold sites and sectional title apartments overlooking the dam. A variety of home design options are available. Spectacular views, abundant leisure facilities, a rich diversity of wildlife and tourism opportunities provide an exclusive estate experience
The view of the dam, the surroundings, the décor and the facilities makes the four star Jozini Tiger Lodge & Spa an ideal venue for special events and weddings or simply a break away from city life. For those wishing to chill – the pool and spa facility is just the place to be. Lake Jozini, often referred to as South Africa’s Lake Kariba, is home to the southernmost population of Tiger fish in Africa and fishing for this elusive but ferocious predator draws fishermen from afar.
