LUXE QUESTS AFRICA EARNS GLOBAL NOMINATION

By Tlalane Dlamini

Eswatini-founded travel concierge company Luxe Quests Africa is expanding its regional footprint with the opening of a second office at Checkers Business Park in Eswatini, following the establishment of its first office in Sandton, South Africa.

The expansion comes as the company secures an international nomination in the Best Emerging Travel Concierge category, following its recognition at the regional Entrepreneur of the Year Awards under the youth-owned business category.

The developments mark an important milestone for the growing business as it strengthens its presence in the tourism industry and works towards connecting travellers with personalised experiences across African destinations.

Managing Director Noxolo Nkabinde said the recognition was encouraging as the company continued to develop its services and build a strong foundation.

“We appreciate the recognition of the work being done, and the nomination alone is an encouraging affirmation that we are on the right path. While the business is fairly new, we are steadily strengthening our foundations, refining our approach and growing with every experience,” said Nkabinde.

She added that the nomination for Best Emerging Travel Concierge encouraged the company to continue building an African travel brand associated with thoughtful service, innovation and attention to detail.

Strengthening Regional Tourism Connections

The new Eswatini office strengthens Luxe Quests Africa’s physical presence in both Eswatini and South Africa, creating a foundation for deeper engagement with travellers, accommodation providers, tour operators and other tourism stakeholders.

Through its concierge model, the company focuses on coordinating personalised travel experiences, helping clients navigate destinations, travel arrangements and activities suited to their preferences.

The approach also creates opportunities to introduce travellers to distinctive African destinations and experiences that may not feature prominently in conventional travel packages.

Eswatini’s cultural heritage, wildlife and natural attractions offer opportunities for developing tailored tourism packages, while South Africa provides access to a broader tourism network. The company’s presence in both markets positions it to explore connections between these complementary tourism offerings.

The international nomination, announced through an awards programme based in Singapore, provides further exposure as the company develops its destination network.

The CEO Destinations Awards recognise businesses and destinations across the travel and hospitality industries, including hotels, airlines, event venues, travel technology and concierge services.

Previous award recipients include Cape Grace in South Africa, Four Seasons Hotel Prague and The Berkeley in London, while Quintessentially Italy has been recognised in the luxury and lifestyle concierge category.

For Luxe Quests Africa, the nomination represents an opportunity to strengthen its visibility as it develops partnerships and expands its reach in the travel market.

Investing in Young Tourism Talent

Beyond its commercial activities, the company is investing in young people interested in pursuing careers in tourism.

Nkabinde revealed that four tourism students were receiving training through the company’s Eswatini office, gaining practical exposure to travel planning and destination-related services.

The initiative seeks to complement academic learning with workplace experience, introducing students to the customer service, coordination and planning involved in organising travel experiences.

According to Nkabinde, tourism offers young Emaswati opportunities in travel coordination, destination management, hospitality, customer service and business development.

By providing practical exposure, the company aims to contribute to skills development while helping young people understand the opportunities available within the tourism industry.

Building for Long-Term Growth

The opening of the Checkers Business Park office, together with the company’s regional recognition and international nomination, comes as Luxe Quests Africa continues to establish its position in the tourism sector.

With offices in Eswatini and South Africa, the company is working to strengthen industry partnerships, broaden its destination network and connect travellers with personalised experiences across Africa.

Its expansion reflects the potential for emerging, youth-owned tourism businesses to contribute to destination promotion, regional collaboration and skills development within the African travel industry.