I worked as a lodge manager a couple of years in Africa. And boy let me tell you, minimizing staff turn-over is everybody’s wish, but very difficult to accomplish. Because life in Africa can be tough, there are 1000’s of reasons why people leave or change their job. Sometimes these reasons are beyond their control, sometimes their are not. In other words it can not be entirely up to the operator to take a lead in this.

I actually agree with you. When there is nice interaction between staff and a tourist, the first is more relaxed and the latter is more happy. I think in Africa that goes a long way. It should however never be an excuse for mediocre service delivery.

Those details will be learnt soon over time, don’t you think? Fork and knife, fixing the right drink etc etc., Usually, people are more tolerant when someone is hospitable and friendly and is willing to learn. Some places on safari, make it more homely when you just go upto the bar and help yourself…….

For example., in the Western World, think about service thesedays? Sure you get great service in a nice restaurant or in an expensive hotel – outside of that? Think about airlines or regular day to day?

This is interesting. Are you saying that being warm and spontaneous is more important than putting the fork and knife on the wrong side? Or filling up a whiskey glass like if it were a lemonade? Or is it maybe that the word ’service’ needs to be defined?