With over three decades of dedication, Dorcas Sohiwe Mogotsi is one of the quiet forces behind the scenes at Rovos Rail, helping to ensure that guests begin and end their journeys with delicious eats. A valued kitchen assistant, Dorcas is part of a close-knit team that supports the chef in preparing and baking a variety of treats for passengers in the departure/arrival lounge at Capital Park, as well as tasty baked goods for the trains themselves.
Dorcas joined Rovos Rail 34 years ago, starting out at the Victoria Hotel before moving to the company’s private train station in Capital Park. Her journey began thanks to a cousin already working at the company, and after a brief stint in the scullery, she moved into her current role where she discovered a new passion: cooking. Having learned everything she knows on the job, Dorcas is especially proud of mastering recipes and kitchen skills she once knew nothing about.
When asked what she enjoys most, Dorcas doesn’t hesitate: “I enjoy every single day — Rovos Rail is a family of good people,” she says with a smile. “I am very grateful to Mr and Mrs Vos for everything they’ve done for me.”
Always ready to pitch in beyond her role, Dorcas has stepped in to support other departments, such as laundry, when trains are delayed or emergencies arise. Teamwork, she says, is what makes Rovos the special company that it is.
A proud Gauteng native, Dorcas spends her leave days enjoying time with her three grandchildren — often taking them to local parks.
A lover of fashion and beautiful things, Dorcas brings flair to both her wardrobe and her work ethic, in keeping with her own words, “I dress to impress!”
Describing herself as “hard working, a mother of the kitchen, and a leader,” Dorcas has a goal to inspire the next generation: “I want to teach young people how to work hard and be proud of their jobs.”
The Women’s Month: Dorcas Mogotsi story serves as a testament to hard work, passion, and the quiet strength of those who work behind the scenes to create unforgettable journeys.
As she continues to inspire others with her positive outlook and perseverance, Dorcas remains a cherished member of the Rovos Rail legacy.
With over two decades representing one of the world’s most iconic luxury train experiences, Carole O’Connor has become as much a part of the Rovos Rail story as the gleaming carriages themselves. As sales manager focussing on Australia, New Zealand, MICE, and charters, she brings not just strategy and experience to the team, but also a unique energy that blends worldliness with warmth.
“No two days are ever the same,” says Carole. “That’s what I love most about my job – meeting people from all over the globe and sharing my passion for Rovos Rail with them.”
Originally from Leeds, Yorkshire, Carole describes her education simply as the “University of Life,” and it’s clear that her experience speaks volumes. She has spent over 22 years contracted to Rovos Rail, after first reaching out to Rohan Vos following a BMW incentive trip aboard the train. From that moment, her journey with Rovos began.
Before joining Rovos Rail, Carole built a formidable background in travel and business development, holding positions with American Express Travel Services, Exclusive Air Charter, and Exclusive Getaways, before launching her own venture, African Dream Destinations CC, where she represented premier travel brands including Sabi Sabi Private Game Lodge and Grande Roche Hotel.
But what stands out most about Carole is her storytelling and her instinct for opportunity. One of her most memorable encounters happened at the Travel Indaba in Durban, where she initially mistook a dishevelled but charming guest at the Rovos hospitality tent for a “freeloader.” As it turned out, he wasn’t there for the food – or the banners. He was a renowned British photographer, owner of a stunning villa in Llandudno, and later a Hasselblad Award winner for his work Allee des Baobab. That conversation sparked a friendship and creative collaboration that lives on through the images he captured aboard the train – many now on display at the Chelsea Art Gallery in London. “I’ve always trusted my gut,” she says. “I’ve taken calculated risks, made bold choices – and they’ve always worked out. I’m proud of that.”
When asked about her favourite journey, Carole names the Durban Safari, one of Rovos Rail’s shorter itineraries, though she admits with a laugh she’s never taken one of the longer journeys herself.
Off the train and away from work, Carole is deeply grounded. She spends weekends hiking mountain trails in a quiet village with her two beloved Labradors. “I’m not one for crowds or loud music. I love nature, I prefer animals to people, and I’m truly at peace with my life,” she says.
As for the future? “I’ve achieved 99 per cent of my goals. Now, it’s time to enjoy the fruits of my labour.”
Three words to describe Carole? Self-made. Resilient. Passionate.
One thing she’s learned at Rovos Rail? “When the going gets tough, the tough get going.”
At Rovos Rail, the luxury train experience is crafted not just by the vintage carriages and five-star service, but by passionate people who pour heart and history into every journey. One such person is Eileen Dash, a dynamic force behind the scenes, currently serving as hardware store manager. With 25 years at Rovos Rail, Eileen’s journey is a story of resilience, adaptability, and some unexpected adventures.
Eileen’s career began high above the clouds. As a former cabin crew member for South African Airways, she spent a decade navigating local and international skies. When this aviation chapter started to close a conversation with a director led her to an up-and-coming train company in Pretoria. That company? Rovos Rail. “The rest,” Eileen laughs, “is history.”
Eileen’s path at Rovos Rail has been anything but linear. Starting out as part of the train crew, she worked across housekeeping, dining service, bar service, and eventually served as deputy manager before leaving temporarily to manage safari lodges and camps across southern Africa. Since returning in 2005, she’s taken on a more grounded role: hardware store manager. Here, she oversees everything from stock control for coach building, to cost management, supplier liaison, and logistics across a sprawling, ever-active site. “No two days are alike – Wednesday and Friday the site comes alive with the trains coming and going so it’s all hands-on deck,” she says.
Over the years, Eileen has completed a range of training, including business management, leadership, fire marshal, and SAGE systems, but she insists that the most valuable skills – agility, creativity, and problem-solving – were forged on the job. “Adaptability is a must here,” she explains. “There’s always a challenge to solve, a curveball to catch.”
She recalls one such memorable challenge: when Rovos Rail acquired the Shongololo Express, her team was given just a month to redo all plumbing and cabinetry. “I’ve never bought that many galvanized pipes and fittings in my life,” she laughs. “There was shouting, eye-rolling, and then… beers and laughter when the completed train finally pulled out and we could come together and appreciate the success of our efforts.”
Her most “mind-blowing” experience goes back to the 90s when a Russian client on a charter trip wanted caviar, salmon and vodka from his homeland. Needless to say, Rovos Rail made it happen – a few days later a chopper drop was made at a nearby field and the products arrived on the train to much laughter. A demonstration of how determined and agile the company is particularly when it comes to client delivery.
Eileen’s role has not only been about problem-solving – it’s also been deeply personal. One project holds a special place in her heart: the acquisition of dining coach 5274, affectionately known as “Rust Bucket.” Originally part of a conservation project, the coach was secured thanks in part to Eileen’s long-standing relationship with a former colleague in conservation. Today, the lovingly preserved oak pillars and panels stand as a tribute to that personal and professional bridge. “I still smile warmly whenever I walk through that coach,” she says.
Eileen explains that “Rovos Rail being a family-run business creates a very personal and proud sense of involvement to all that work here”.
Eileen’s favourite Rovos Rail destination is Cape Town, due to the Matjiesfontein walks, tunnels and valleys, as well as the Karoo night skies. “The brightest stars ever, once we stopped the train so guests could watch a meteor shower,” she recalls.
When she’s not managing hardware or overseeing her various onsite projects, Eileen enjoys spending time with her mother, tinkering at home, and reflecting on a life well-travelled. Her past hobbies include backyard beekeeping, family tree research, jogging, cycling and gardening.
Eileen is inspired by community and conservation initiatives – the latter being a longtime passion encouraged by her near-completion of a Nature Conservation Diploma. “I once dreamed of being an Eco Warrior,” she says with a smile, “and in some ways, maybe I still am.”
Peacemaker. Intuitive. Carer. That’s how Eileen describes herself – and that spirit echoes in everything she does at Rovos Rail. Whether she’s coordinating plumbing parts, immersing herself in paperwork, or guiding a team through a high-pressure refit, Eileen’s story is proof that the journey is always shaped by the people who walk it together.
Stay tuned for more behind the scenes stories from the people who make Rovos Rail a world-class luxury experience on rails.
In celebration of Women’s Month in August, we are honouring four of our amazing female staff members.
Nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s travel scene is a woman whose journey with one of the world’s most luxurious trains began not on board, but behind a travel agent’s desk in Germany. Meet Heike Gerntholtz – passionate marketer, storyteller, and lifelong ambassador for Rovos Rail.
“I was the youngest, and probably the most clueless, at the agency,” she laughs, recalling the day a man walked in asking to “travel Africa by train.” Her colleagues, noting her African roots, nudged him in her direction. That single interaction sparked what would become the agency’s most legendary booking – four tickets aboard Rovos Rail from Cape Town to Dar es Salaam, with a Kenyan safari to follow.
The train was a mystery to Heike at the time. She had only heard of the Blue Train. But when those clients returned raving about their cross-continental journey – and the personal call they received from Rovos founder Rohan Vos – Heike was captivated. So much so that when she returned to South Africa as a 20-year-old, she didn’t buy a ticket, she applied for a job!
That was in 1997, and what began with two months on the train as a “rooming girl” soon evolved into a long-standing career, with a short stint in reservations and then in marketing and sales, today focusing on German-speaking Europe, Eastern Europe, and the Nordics.
“I love the product – the train, the journey, the people,” she says. “But what’s kept me here are the souls behind it. Some colleagues I’ve worked with for over 27 years. And I have a huge respect for Rohan.”
“I’m also grateful for the flexibility and the fact that I can work fairly independently in our Cape Town satellite office.”
Her love for Rovos Rail extends far beyond the office. One route in particular – Cape Town to Dar es Salaam – holds her heart. She’s done the trip three times: twice as a hostess and once as a guest with her children and parents for their 50th anniversary. The memories? Unforgettable.
“That journey showcases Africa in its rawest, most beautiful form,” she reflects. “It’s incredible, sometimes heartbreaking, but always profound. It makes you feel proud – and alive.”
While Heike’s days are now filled with emails, travel expos, and liaising with agents, she still finds time to roam the wild places of Africa. When not in the office, you’ll find her on a hiking trail in the Karoo or exploring parts of the continent she hasn’t yet discovered.
She calls herself “stubborn, positive, and straight-forward” – traits that have helped her carve a unique space within the travel industry. She speaks fluent German, though she’s quick to point out, with a grin, that she’s not actually German.
“I’ve grown with this company,” she says. “One of my proudest moments was realizing – ten years in – that I could make decisions confidently, even without Rohan around. That shift in mindset changed everything.”
Her goals for the future are simple: find more balance, travel more, and maybe – just maybe – cut back on those dangerously addictive Root Stock chips in the office.
Heike counts herself lucky every day – she does what she loves, works because she can, not because she has to, and wouldn’t have it any other way.
The Answers Lie in Africa, Bruce Smith’s debut novel, marks the beginning of an exciting literary journey. The inspiration for this story is rooted in real events. In this case, the real event was a trip to South Africa and Zimbabwe made in 2023.
The idea formed during a tour of the Kimberley Diamond Mine and was solidified by the glamorous nights aboard Rovos Rail. The route he travelled – from Cape Town to Johannesburg, and then to Victoria Falls – is essentially, the same route as the characters in the novel.
Like the gold rush in California, the diamond rush in South Africa in the late 1800s was fuelled by excitement and greed. Bruce recalls standing at the edge of the Big Hole imagining the chaos as fortunes were made and lost.
It wasn’t his first time in Africa, but it was the first time he’s ever been so inspired. While he didn’t chase any long-hidden family secrets or search for missing diamonds, the experience was unforgettable.
“The opening chapter of Bruce’s book features the spectacular Chapman’s Peak Drive in Cape Town, and after reading the opening chapters I, by chance, cycled ‘Chappies’ the following morning. The route was quiet, isolated and I could well imagine PJ and Jane’s journey,” says Anthea Vos.
“I enjoyed reading Bruce’s African mystery adventure with his vivid portrayal of the subcontinents’ landscapes and cultural nuances. He effectively captures the essence of these varied environments, from the bustling cities of Cape Town, the Gauteng hub of Johannesburg and Pretoria to serene safaris in and around the spectacular Victoria Falls, providing readers with a real sense of place that enhances the narrative.”
“It is always an honour to have Rovos Rail featured in any novel as the coaches and atmosphere on board take on a life of their own and almost become another character in the book which is a delightfully different way to view our train. The Answers Lie in Africa offers an engaging blend of adventure, history, and personal discovery. While it may appeal most to readers interested in historical mysteries set against the backdrop of Southern Africa, its themes of family and truth-seeking have universal resonance,” she concludes.
Bruce Smith lives in a small town north of Toronto, Canada with his wife, Susan. When not writing, Bruce enjoys spending time with his three grandchildren, woodworking, and traveling to inspiring locations.
The Answers Lie in Africa is a contemporary adventure novel that blends elements of historical mystery with modern-day exploration. For more info, or to contact the author, please email brucesmithwrites@gmail.com or follow him on Facebook @BruceSmithWrites.
Back in August 2023, we shared the heartwarming story behind the Rovos Rail teddy bears – a tale filled with creativity, craftsmanship, and a whole lot of love. For many years, these charming bears have been handmade with care, each with its own personality and miniature accessories, from safari jackets to tiny binoculars.
At the heart of the story is Sonja Peters of HiBearNation, who along with her husband Bjorn, has carried on this beloved tradition since 2016, following in the pawprints of original creator Bev Duncan.
Since our last post, we’ve heard many wonderful stories from guests about where their Rovos bears have travelled. But one letter stood out to us – about the very first Rovos Rail bear ever sold.
Clare Delaney-Young and Will Young bought their bear on their first Rovos journey years ago. Since then, our “Pioneer Bear” has had pride of place in the living rooms of their various homes, initially in Johannesburg and now in Mauritius, as a treasured member of the family.
He’s joined them on adventures around the globe, from chasing solar eclipses in Zambia, Turkey, and China to a canal cruise in France. He’s even returned to Rovos Rail, revisiting the magic of luxury train travel.
While a playful puppy once chewed up his original tag during a wash, there is photographic evidence of him still wearing the tag confirming his proud legacy as Rovos teddy bear number one.
“He sends his warm regards to all the other Rovos Bears,” Clare wrote in her letter – a reminder that these bears are more than souvenirs, they are memory keepers.
Meanwhile, Sonja and Bjorn have been hard at work over the past few months, crafting a beautiful new collection of Rovos Rail teddy bears. This limited edition features just twenty bears in three delightful ranges: Engineer Bear, Safari Bear, and Traveller Bear. Each teddy is individually handmade with exquisite attention to detail and comes with unique accessories to set them apart.
They are lovingly handmade using luxurious Schulte mohair, black glass eyes, black embroidered noses, and suede paw pads beautifully embroidered by Luisa Maria Dingley. True to tradition, every bear is fully jointed, allowing its arms, legs, and head to move. And of course, each one comes with its own unique accessories, making them truly one-of-a-kind.
As we prepare to launch our newest additions, including the much-anticipated Coal Stoker Bear, we are reminded of how much joy these little companions bring. Whether it’s the very first bear or a brand-new bear snug in a hemp drawstring bag bearing the Rovos crest, each one carries with it a spirit of adventure and timeless charm.
So, where are the Rovos bears now? Some are living in Mauritius, some are tucked into suitcases exploring the world, and some are still right here riding the rails with us.
Do you have a Rovos bear story? We’d love to hear where your bear has travelled. Drop us a message, tag us on online, or send us a photo, we would love to hear from you.
The Rovos limited-edition teddy bears are available for sale to guests, in either the train gift shop or at the Rovos Rail Station.
Southern Africa is a vast region of diverse landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and natural beauty. One of the most unique ways to truly appreciate the scenery is by taking a train journey – and one of the most picturesque routes is one of Rovos Rail’s signature trips – the journey from Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe to Pretoria in South Africa.
The journey spans four days and 1400 kilometres, meandering from the mist of the mighty Victoria Falls to the rolling plains of the Limpopo province, the train ride offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness the stunning diversity of this part of the world. The journey begins at the iconic Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.
This breathtaking location on the Zambezi River forms the border between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Known as “The Smoke That Thunders,” Victoria Falls is one of the largest and most powerful waterfalls on the planet, with water cascading down in a dramatic display.
The town of Victoria Falls is one of Southern Africa’s most visited tourist destinations with spectacular natural beauty and much to see and do. The train departs from the grand Victoria Falls Hotel which is one of the world’s classic five-star hotels, aptly setting the stage for the voyage ahead.
As the train pulls out from Victoria Falls, it begins to wind its way southward with the first stretch of the journey meandering through the Zambezi River Basin. This area is home to the mighty Zambezi River, which flows through rugged landscapes, hosting a wide variety of ecosystems including forests, wetlands, floodplains and open grasslands. Birdwatching is a treat on this route, with species such as the lilac-breasted roller, and African hornbill being common sightings.
One of the highlights of this train route is passing through Hwange National Park, one of Zimbabwe’s most famous and wildlife-rich conservation areas. Hwange is home to the Big Five game and is particularly known for its large elephant population as well as giraffe, zebra, antelope, and wildebeest.
The park spans 14,650 square kilometres incorporating both bush and savannah, and much of it is visible from the comfort of the train. However, Rovos passengers are fortunate to be able to disembark the train for an early morning game drive through the park followed by sumptuous refreshments in one of Hwange’s picturesque settings.
Another highlight on the trip is a visit to the Matopos National Park located in the southern part of Zimbabwe near the city of Bulawayo. Matopos is a captivating destination known for its dramatic landscapes, ancient rock formations, rich cultural history, and African wildlife, most notably the white rhino. The park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts some of Zimbabwe’s most unique and stunning scenery. From towering granite kopjes to vast, open savannahs.
As the train crosses the border at Beitbridge into South Africa, the landscape begins to change again. This region is characterized by expansive grasslands, scattered hills, and the occasional acacia tree. The train chugs through the rolling plains, which are punctuated by small farming communities and the occasional herds of cattle or sheep grazing.
It is known for its spectacular sunsets, and to view this from a moving train is simply breathtaking.
Much of this land is home to the South African Boer (farmer), and there is much evidence of their agriculture, from the sprawling cornfields to grazing livestock.
Finally, after traveling through the vast rural landscapes of South Africa, the train approaches Pretoria, the administrative capital of the country. The contrast with the wide-open spaces of the journey is striking, but it’s a gentle introduction to the vibrancy of South Africa’s capital.
The trip concludes at Capital Park, the Rovos Rail private train station and head office – a beautiful and historic oasis close to the CBD.
The train journey from Victoria Falls to Pretoria offers a unique way to experience the diversity and beauty of this part of the world, all while providing the utmost of luxury and comfort. It’s for good reason that this route is one of Rovos Rail’s most popular ones, with many guests returning to do it time and again.
A journey aboard Rovos Rail is a unique adventure, where every detail reflects the golden age of leisure travel. Central to this experience is the Rovos Rail workshop refurbishment team, whose expert craftsmanship works tirelessly behind-the-scenes to bring these classic trains back to life.
Having vintage coaches travelling thousands of kilometres each year requires a dedicated crew of electricians, plumbers, carpenters, painters, welders, air-con specialists and general handymen to keep them in good, working order. To ensure their hard work is sustained, an energetic maintenance crew join the trips and see to any rattle, leak or wobble that might occur.
Coach painting, polishing and carpentry works are ongoing so the workshops are buzzing which is music to our ears. The precision, care, and craftsmanship that go into maintaining and refurbishing each coach is a testament to their exceptional work and devotion.
Overseen by workshop manager Marko Aucamp, the workshop crew comprises 60 workmen who are all experts in their fields.
Their hard work and skills ensure that the fleet of plush vintage trains are functional works of art able to safely and reliably traverse thousands of kilometres across Southern Africa.
Rovos Rail’s private train station, Capital Park in Pretoria is home to the in-house workshop which is always a hive of activity, continually expanding and upgrading its fleet with numerous coaches being reconstructed at any one time.
The headquarters is about 60 acres in extent and in addition to the workshop it houses 16 different departments that all work busily behind-the-scenes so that every beautifully renovated train is perfectly equipped for each trip.
The seamless operation of Rovos Rail is a direct result of the unwavering commitment from every department and individual, each one contributing to creating and running a luxury hotel on wheels. From the skilled workshop team to the meticulous front-line staff, each person is a cog in the wheel of the Rovos operation, playing an integral role in delivering a world-class experience. It is this dedication to excellence that ensures every journey aboard Rovos Rail is nothing short of extraordinary, reinforcing its reputation as the premier luxury train service in the world.
If you’re the type of traveller who enjoys the journey as much as the destination and prefers to experience every detail of your trip at a relaxed pace, then “slow travel” might be just the thing for you.
According to the Journal of Travel Research, “Slow tourism is characterized by reducing mobility and by taking time to explore local history and culture, while supporting the environment – the traveller’s main goals are relaxation, self-reflection, escape, novelty seeking, engagement and discovery.”
It’s about more meaningful travel experiences, pausing to reflect, and savouring the journey, rather than rushing to tick off bucket list items. This tends to create a more fulfilling experience, longer lasting memories, and the feeling of being revitalised and refreshed once the trip is over.
With modern life now busier than ever, the constant information overload, packed schedules, and enslavement to technology, travellers are choosing to slow down, escape, relax and reconnect. It’s often quality as opposed to quantity, valuing what’s truly important – real human connection and the beauty of the world that surrounds us.
Slow travel encourages more leisurely modes of transport which is why train travel is becoming increasingly popular. And luxury train travel in particular takes travellers to a bygone era when slow travel was the norm with journeys being as much about the experience as the destination. Rovos Rail offers a genuine experience of slow travel by merging opulence with an unhurried pace, and I recently had the pleasure of experiencing this firsthand on a trip from Victoria Falls to Pretoria. It truly was more than just a journey, it was an indulgent adventure blending the luxury of the train with the thoughtfully planned stops to create authentic local experiences and an insight into the nature, cultures, and history along the route.
Embarking the train at The Victoria Falls Hotel, (as well as the disembarkation at Rovos Rail’s head office Capital Park) was in itself a charming throwback to a bygone era, and stepping onto the train is like stepping into a different world — where time slows down and elegance reigns.
Rovos Rail’s interiors embody the essence of slow travel by offering spaces where relaxation and extravagance are paramount – plush furnishings, polished wood panelling and the ultimate in comfort and attention to detail – it’s not about reaching a destination, but rather about luxuriating in the journey itself.
One of the highlights of the Rovos Rail experience is the exquisite dining. Meals are served in the elegant dining car, which exudes a refined atmosphere with old fashioned décor, cut glassware, beautiful silverware, and freshly starched linen. Mealtimes are not just about eating, it’s the entire experience from dressing up for dinner to savouring each course, and all of one’s senses are fulfilled. The menu highlights the best of Southern African cuisine from tender venison steaks to succulent seafood and freshly baked pastries all paired with fine wines from the region’s top vineyards. Afternoon tea, another cherished ritual, features a variety of teas accompanied by an array of decadent savoury and sweet delicacies.
One of the highlights of luxury train travel is the opportunity for unique connections with fellow travellers which enables one to meet interesting people from around the world. The communal areas, such as the lounge and observation car, are perfect for engaging conversations with other passengers, and the bar after dinner sees guests sharing stories and experiences, and often forging lasting friendships.
The journey from Victoria Falls to Pretoria spans approximately 1600 kilometres meandering through some of Southern Africa’s most stunning scenery. Rovos Rail passengers are fortunate to be able to appreciate the changing landscapes whilst relishing all that the train has to offer and being attended to by the attentive staff who are always on hand to cater to every want or need.
Yet the Rovos Rail journey is not just about the onboard experience, it also includes carefully curated excursions that allow passengers to explore the regions the train passes through. We had the opportunity to disembark and enjoy game viewing in leading Southern African reserves and learn about the local flora and fauna, including close up encounters with the endangered rhino.
Educational forays into the regions rich history are conducted by passionate and knowledgeable raconteurs who hold their audiences captive regaling stories ranging from the culture of the ancient San tribes – Africa’s original inhabitants, to the intriguing life of Cecil John Rhodes.
The journey from Victoria Falls to Pretoria on Rovos Rail was more than just a trip, it was an escape from the treadmill of life and technology, into a world where time moves at a more leisurely pace and every moment is a celebration of elegance and discovery.
Slow travel is not just a trend, it’s a mindset that encourages one to rediscover the joy of the journey – the leisurely pace, true escapism and relaxation, deeper connections, and a more meaningful appreciation of the world around us.
For a travel experience that combines exploration and opulence, Rovos Rail offers an unparalleled slow travel adventure – it’s an invitation to escape the humdrum of normal life, step back in time, revel in the ultimate of luxury, explore beautiful landscapes, and forge genuine connections with fellow travellers.
Belinda Rakoma is one of Rovos Rail’s unsung heroes working behind the scenes for 31 years! From humble beginnings as a casual cleaner at Pretoria Train Station in 1993, her journey with Rovos has carried her to the current position of Store Supervisor, a testament to her ambition.
Belinda’s primary responsibility is to prepare the beverage stock for all trips. Every Monday, she checks the schedule to determine the number of journeys, how many carriages are on each one and how many passengers are travelling. She also accounts for the menus, special requests and the guests’ nationalities because, for example, Germans often consume more beer. She is proud of this attention to detail.
Belinda and her strong team load a full bar onto each train for every trip. The carefully curated selection of local and international beverages – with a proud focus on South African offerings – includes wine, brandy, gin, rum, vodka, whisky, spirits, digestifs, grappa, liqueur, beer, cider, non-alcoholic options, mixers and a cocktail menu. Rovos Rail maintains its commitment to sustainability by sourcing water from Cape Town using plant-based bottles. All beverages on board are included while special requests may be ordered at an additional cost.
Belinda’s time with Rovos has not only taught her practical skills such as mixing drinks and understanding wines, she credits the company with invaluable lessons in communication and teamwork. She believes in letting go of grudges, avoiding gossip and communicating honestly, which is reflected in her grounded approach.
The highlights of her job extend beyond the bar from her first trip outside South Africa to the experiences of meeting new people and exploring new places. Her favourite Rovos destination is Victoria Falls.
Belinda lives in Soshanguve but her heritage is Eswatini where her mother was born, and Lesotho, her father’s origins. She enjoys cooking, walking and spring cleaning but her priorities lie with her three children and three grandchildren. Her goal is to ensure they all receive a quality education and can take care of themselves.
In Belinda Rakoma, Rovos Rail has a dedicated team player. Her passion, attention to detail and commitment to customer service are qualities that contribute to the company’s mission to provide luxury train travel.
So, the next time you’re on board, raise a glass to the hard work and dedication of Belinda and her team.
Written by Linda Sparks • Edited by Bianca Vos-Lynch
