Diversity is a woman’s tool
Transitioning back into the world of a woman after spending years in a ‘Dudes’ rugged environment was not easy according to Marcel Cronje, the proud owner of Belle Vue Guesthouse in Hartbeespoort. ” I literally had to knock on my girlfriend’s doors to get advice on how to get dressed, match colours and apply make-up. I believe that a woman can do anything she puts her mind to. The world of a man is less complicated and more practical when it comes to aesthetics. It definitely helped me to be more independent.”
Marcel found that she constantly had to prove herself while being a game ranger as no one thinks that women can do the job as well as men do. “It was a memorable time of my life and I felt privilege to have been able to work so close to nature. I captured game with remarkable game rangers and learned to wait and think on my feet. The freedom you experience out in the bush is indescribable and I will always cherish the memories of outdoor adventures with the dust and the wind in my hair.”
How do you compete with all the wonderful guesthouses in your area?
“Belly Vue received a reward from Hotels Combined for a rating from guests of 9 out of 10 and has been on a rating of 8.8 out of 10 (on booking.com) for the last 2 years. I have managed to obtain my Guesthouse 3-star rating in 2019 from the Tourism Grading Council. We offer a home away from home with a beautiful view over the dam, friendly staff and service to make one feel at home. We also offer breakfast so that guests do not have to go hunt for a restaurant.” www.bellevuegh.co.za
Miracle during lockdown 2019.
“My wonderful fiancé helped me out where he could, but I felt so helpless. I received a phone call from someone that asked me how we were doing. I burst into tears and just said, I do not know any more. They told me to stay strong and that God told them to help me out financially. This enabled me to pay my bills. I know that Gods hand is in everything and it put my mind at ease that we are looked after by our Heavenly Farther.”
How would you describe someone fit to operate in the hospitality industry?
“You need to be strong and have enough willpower to carry on when times are tough. It is long hours that nobody really appreciates. You must be willing to educate yourself in all different aspects of hospitality. You cannot lead a team if you do not know what each person’s tasks involve.”
Today Marcel describes herself as a strong but feminine woman that fits into both male and female worlds effortlessly. She loves the opportunity that hospitality gives her to meet new people from different cultures. She wants her guests to experience the love and goodness of God when they enter her guesthouse.