South Africa Expert & Guide Doug Thomson

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Guide: Doug Thomson
Short Bio: Doug was born, raised and schooled in Zimbabwe then headed to South Africa to receive his Bachelor's Degree at Rhodes University and a Teacher's Diploma at University of Cape Town. He taught biology for six years and was very involved with both rugby and cricket coaching. He has a wide knowledge of the flora and fauna of South Africa and in particular, the Fynbos of The Western Cape. His great love for people of different cultures is apparent as he tries to impart to guests a deeper understanding of South Africa and its people while also showing off much of its unique beauty.

Trips Guided by Doug:

Doug's Guide Survey:

What's your favorite vacation destination?
The bushveld anywhere in Africa.

What's your favorite hike?
Otter Trail in the Southern Cape , South Africa.

What's your favorite bike ride?
There is a beautiful cycle in Knysna Forest, also in the Southern Cape.

What's your favorite trip to guide?
I love guiding all sorts of trips but enjoy them the most when I have lively, interactive clients who are keen to enjoy themselves and learn about South Africa at the same time.

What do you do that makes a guest's vacation special?
There is a total personal touch in all the tours I guide. It helps to have small groups in order to relate to everyone in the group at a high level.

Favorite Movie: Not big into movies - would rather be outdoors.

Favorite Book: Jock of the Bushveld - by Percy Fitzpatrick

Favorite Song: We've got tonight by Bob Seger (it was our first dance on our wedding day)

Describe the most amazing experience you've had while guiding a trip:
I have had many amazing experiences but one that does stick out for me was being with a couple from Seattle on a cliff path about 20m from the ocean. There was a female Southern Right Whale, lying on her back, suckling her calf about 30m from us right up against the rocks.

When did you first catch the travel bug?
I have always enjoyed exploring and have been fortunate to have grown up in places where travel is the norm.

What are your hobbies?
Golf, kayaking, walking and most things out in the African sun.

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