mbulelo smpofu
Leonard Ncube, leonard.ncube@zimpapers.co.zw
CHARMAINE Botsh, a visionary entrepreneur, founded Chez Travel in 2018 and transformed it into a leading travel operator in Zimbabwe. Based in Bulawayo, Chez Travel has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional service and commitment to sustainable tourism.
Botsh, a dynamic and passionate individual, holds a diploma in marketing from LCCI and a degree in marketing from the University of South Africa. Her previous experience as a branch manager at a large organisation provided her with valuable insights into the industry. However, her entrepreneurial spirit led her to venture out on her own and establish Chez Travel.
With a strong focus on customer satisfaction, Chez Travel offers a comprehensive range of services, including guided tours to Zimbabwe’s tourist destinations like Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Matopos and Great Zimbabwe. They also provide convenient vehicle rental options that cater for travellers’ diverse needs.
Botsh’s dedication to excellence and her company’s commitment to sustainable tourism services have contributed to their rapid growth. Chez Travel has become a trusted partner for both corporate and leisure travellers, providing tailored solutions to meet their specific needs.
The company has not only survived but thrived, even in the face of challenges like the Covid-19 pandemic, which hit just as the business was finding its feet. Botsh’s tenacity and confidence have been key to overcoming these obstacles.
“It was very difficult but I have always been a very confident person,” she says.
Starting from the grassroots with no vehicles of their own, Chez Travel initially sub-hired vehicles and navigated statutory requirements with resilience. The company’s unique selling points and brand strength have earned it a reputation as a reliable travel service provider, particularly among corporate clients.
Employing six people, the company does not only contribute to the growth of the economy but also changes lives and communities through its operations.
“Tourism is the highest economic contributor and as such we are also contributing to the growth of the economy,” Botsh states proudly.
Chez Travel exhibited at this year’s Sanganai/Hlanganani World Tourism Expo and was invited to share their success story as a testament to their growing influence and to inspire young people into business.
Looking ahead, Botsh which has satellite offices in Victoria Falls, plans to open offices in Harare.
“We pride ourselves in providing sustainable tourism solutions. If you are not getting travel services from Chez Travel, you are not getting the best.”
In a relatively short time, Chez Travel has grown from a dream into a travel powerhouse now owning a fleet of cars.
“I left my previous job to follow my dream. I knew it wouldn’t be easy but I’ve always been a confident person. It was a difficult journey at first but we were fortunate to have so many people cheering us on, guiding us and offering mentorship. The motto of Chez Travel is ‘Home of Travel,’ and we truly live up to that. Whether you are planning a family getaway, a corporate retreat, or an adventure to some of Zimbabwe’s natural wonders, we are here to make that journey as smooth and memorable as possible,” she said.
Chez Travel has distinguished itself as a leading travel operator, offering diverse services and prioritising sustainable tourism. The company’s commitment to exceptional customer service and strategic partnerships, including with the ZTA, has been instrumental in its rapid growth.
“We wouldn’t have made it this far without the mentorship and support from ZTA, they have played a crucial role in helping us navigate the complexities of the tourism industry,” said Botsh.
Chez Travel’s participation in high-profile events like Sanganai/Hlanganani Expo has helped to market it.
The Covid-19 pandemic posed a significant challenge but it managed to survive because of its resilience.
“We understand the unique needs of our corporate clients and we ensure that we deliver the kind of service they expect. Our professionalism aligns with their standards hence they keep coming back,” said Botsh.
She says Chez Travel aspires to be Zimbabwe’s premier travel solution provider offering world-class experiences. – @ncubeleon
