Meet Christiane, a seasoned Lokafyer in Cape Town with an incredible story of transformation, travel, and cultural connection. From owning guest houses in some of South Africa’s most picturesque locations to walking the Camino and exploring the vibrant streets of cities across the globe, Christiane’s journey is as diverse as the city she calls home. Fluent in German, English, and Afrikaans, she brings a wealth of knowledge and personal touch to every tour she leads, crafting unforgettable experiences for travelers from around the world.
About Me:
My career has predominantly been in the marketing field, but for 25 years, I owned guesthouses in some of South Africa’s most beautiful destinations, including Camps Bay, Hermanus, Franschhoek, and Plettenberg Bay. As the rise of Airbnb posed a growing threat to the business, I made the decision to sell the properties and embark on a journey around the world. During my travels, I walked the Camino in Spain and Portugal for two consecutive years and visited iconic cities like Havana, Lima, Buenos Aires, Mendoza, Santiago in Chile, and Rio de Janeiro. It was a trip of a lifetime that inspired me to write a trilogy called ‘SwitchBitch’, where I chronicled my travel experiences and the physical and spiritual transformation I underwent.
In 2018, I came across an advertisement for Lokafy looking for German-speaking tour guides in Cape Town. As a German-born South African, I couldn’t resist the opportunity. My mother insisted on speaking German at home, while at school, I conversed in English and Afrikaans – the two official languages at the time. This unique bilingual upbringing made me a perfect fit for the role.
Why Cape Town:
Cape Town is, without a doubt, the most beautiful city in the world. From the awe-inspiring Table Mountain to the diverse vegetation and the stunning blend of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, it’s a place like no other. It’s home to indigenous Fynbos, produces some of the best wines, and boasts exceptional restaurants. Cape Town is also home to the African penguin and is known as South Africa’s Gay capital. I’m incredibly proud of our diverse and vibrant cultural community.
Having arrived here as a three-month-old baby, Cape Town has always been my first home. After completing my studies with a B.Comm (Hons) and MBA, I worked in advertising in Johannesburg before returning to the Mother City. Since then, I’ve never looked back.
Lokafy Experience:
After five years of guiding German-speaking guests in Cape Town, the most rewarding aspect has been the lasting relationships I’ve built with many of them. They continue to follow my WhatsApp status updates, which often feature breathtaking sunset photographs of our beautiful city. Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to meet up with some of my Lokafy guests in Berlin, Leipzig, and Dresden. It was truly a special reunion!
I always strive to understand the interests and expectations of my guests before our tour, which allows me to tailor the experience to their preferences. Being able to communicate with my guests in near-perfect German has been an invaluable asset. Over the years, I’ve fine-tuned the tours, recommending great restaurants, nearby towns, and additional sightseeing opportunities. I like to think of myself as not just a guide, but a friend who offers useful advice and insider tips.
To keep my tours fresh and relevant, I actively engage in various tourism and safety-focused groups on Facebook and WhatsApp, as well as on TikTok. I also watch German TV in the evenings to stay connected with the latest developments in my home country, which helps me keep my German language skills sharp.
I also really appreciate the ease of receiving bookings through Lokafy, with guest details, pick-up information, and background details often provided. The communication through WhatsApp has made the entire process seamless. And, with Lokafy’s support system and a reliable payment process, I feel well-supported. I’m proud to say I’ve only had one no-show in five years!
Challenges and Rewards:
One of the most challenging tours I’ve encountered involved a family that insisted on taking a tour during Cape Town’s notorious 100 km/h winds. After persuading them to postpone, the husband’s sole focus during the rescheduled tour was speed-walking through the city, which led to an unpleasant experience. Unfortunately, I had to cancel the second half of the tour.
However, the real rewards come from the positive feedback and referrals I receive from guests. I never actively check reviews on platforms like GetYourGuide or Lokafy – the personal connections and word-of-mouth referrals mean so much more to me.
Local Insights:
As a restaurant writer and food enthusiast, I love showcasing Cape Town’s culinary delights. From the city's diverse cultural dishes to hidden gems like a secret gin bar, I aim to offer my guests an authentic taste of what Cape Town has to offer. I even introduce them to a segment of the Berlin Wall, a statue of Queen Victoria, and some of our best wine estates.
Living in Camps Bay, my favorite neighborhood in Cape Town, I’m surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Lion’s Head, and the stunning beaches. It's a trendy spot for visitors who want to experience the best of Cape Town's sunsets and vibrant atmosphere.
I also introduce guests to our rich cultural diversity and encourage them to try local dishes such as Koesisters and Bobotie. I teach them a few words in Xhosa to enhance their experience and immerse them in the local culture.
Tips and Advice:
One of the challenges of guiding is keeping children entertained. I once had a 17-year-old daughter, who was quite introverted at the start of our tour. But, by the third day, she had come out of her shell when we visited a thrift market and an animal rescue center.
If you’re looking to become a tour guide, fluency in German is a must. Staying updated with local tourism events and safety information is essential. Additionally, asking for feedback from your guests after each tour is vital for growth.
I recommend booking a tour with a guide like me on the first day of your stay in Cape Town. This gives you a comprehensive overview of the city, including sightseeing, safety tips, and recommendations on what to do during your stay. It’s not as beneficial to book a tour on your last day.
Closing Thoughts:
Christiane embodies the true spirit of Lokafy, bridging cultures, creating connections, and sharing the heart and soul of Cape Town with her guests. Whether it’s her thoughtful preparation, her passion for local cuisine, or her dedication to staying informed and engaged, she leaves a lasting impression on everyone she meets. Her story reminds us that travel is more than just visiting a destination—it’s about forming meaningful relationships and discovering the world through new perspectives.
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