From day one of my adventures, I have been blessed to have been transported, educated and entertained by some amazing drivers, guides and naturalists. I am a firm believer in promoting and sharing information when I encounter a company or a person who has provided exceptional service or care.
As a solo female traveler who usually crafts her own itineraries, I insist on having reputable tour companies handle my itineraries. The reasoning behind this is twofold – I want to have the most amazing holiday possible with the least interruptions and I always want to be safe. The companies and/or individuals listed on this page provided me with exemplary service while I was in their respective countries and I can recommend them without hesitation should you require assistance planning your visit to their homelands.
Ghana
Musah Alhassan
Musah is one CEO who specializes in hospitality. When I visited Ghana in 2023, Musah came to greet me personally and go over my itinerary in depth. Upon meeting me, he even suggested that my guide rearrange some activities to better suit my personality. That is what I call a special touch.
Before founding Uprise Travel, Musah worked at M&J Tours, Hilton Hotels, Rustic Pathways, and SDL Tours. As a teen, he found his passion by giving guided tours on borrowed motorcycles. Look how far he has come!
India
Shabbir Janu Khan
I had the pleasure of meeting the founder and owner of Janu Private Tours, Shabbir Janu Khan, in March of 2019 when I visited Jaipur, India.
Janu is a personable, kind, knowledgeable professional tour operator and made sure I had the very best experiences while in Jaipur and Abhaneri. With more than 20 years experience as an independent tour operator specializing in tailor-made tours, Janu is the person you want handling your itinerary while traveling throughout India.
Since I met Janu in 2019, he has thrived building his own hotel, Marigold Inn, and opening a restaurant, The Curry Spoon – both of which have earned stellar reviews from international guests.
Tanzania
Philipo Mawaila Haule
One of my greatest holidays was spent experiencing the wildebeest migration in Tanzania with this gentleman. I had the pleasure of seeing Tanzania through the eyes of, Philipo Mawaila Haule, my naturalist and driver for the duration of my time in the Serengeti, including my visit to Ngorongoro Crater.
Philipo has been employed by Kearsley’s Travel and Tours for 18 years and has extensive experience in wildlife tracking and showcasing the natural resources of the Serengeti, Tarangire and Nyerere National Parks.