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THE TRADE OF KNOWLEDGE
Sep 13, 2011In the past, both countries have hosted guides from one another as a way to learn more about the different reserves and lodges within the company.
Payal is originally from Mumbai, and trained with Taj Safaris before joining the company 3 years ago. Coming to Phinda has always been a dream trip for her. Durgesh has been with the company for 4 years now after leaving his home town, Bhubaneswar.
For both guides, Phinda has been a part of their training and growing as a Naturalist. Both of them have studied before becoming professional guides. Durgesh has a B-Tech in Information Technology and Payal has a Masters in Ecology and a Diploma in Mass Communication and Journalism. As Phinda Private Game Reserve is the flagship property of &Beyond, they both know quite a few people within the company who have always been passionate and encouraging about the work they do. It was not a difficult decision at all for them to decide to come spend time at Phinda.
All of our lodges in India and South Africa have more to offer than just the usual game drives, and Payal and Durgesh got to spend some time joining in on the different activities. Night drives through the reserve, and a birding trip to the nearby St Lucia were among just a few of the highlights during their stay. A few days were spent at Inkwazi, Phinda's training camp, where they got the join in with the various training and assessments sessions of the rangers and trackers.
According to Durgesh and Payal, there are a few certain things that you need to see if you are considering a trip to India. The first is a Safari of the National Parks, like Kanha. The fauna and flora are so diverse compared to South Africa; it is really a whole new experience being there. Some of the cultural places are a must see as well, for example the Taj Mahal and Jaipur. The definite must do though once you are there is to taste the mouthwatering multivariate Indian cuisine. Words cannot even begin to describe the flavours and aromas of India.
Both guests have strong feelings on the work that Phinda does. Durgesh:"Phinda and its people seem to be a legendary example of conservation of its model. It was eye opening to see how wildlife tourism has a positive effect not only on wildlife, but also the people around it." Payal: "Coming here to Phinda felt so similar but yet so different! The warmth and hospitality is the same but the wildlife conservation methods and attitude towards tourism is so so, so mature!"
Hopefully the next trip will be a few of our guides heading over to experience &Beyond India.
