Write a Review

Dearest Alan I'd like to start by thanking you for continually surprising me. I really didn't know what to expect when I landed in Johannesburg. I certainly did not expect my priest-pulmonologist park ranger host to greet me with a warm hug and in Arabic. You have truly given me a crash course in hospitality from going out of your way to procure halal meat for us, to finding out where the hospital prayer room was and to sharing so many life lessons. I can't wait to inculcate moving forward. To any new Swans reading this - Congratulations. You are in for an experience you won't soon forget. Expect lessons about love, grass and ten ways to make coffee! I leave with a full heart and optimism about the future. You have a home to stay in for as long as you like in London. I hope our paths cross again.

Where do I start? Lets start with your garden and castle, since that's where my experience began. Rarely has another's home put me so much at ease. My ability to find refuge and quietude listening to the babble of the koi pond fountain was a treat, to hear the birds chirping and to share meals and conversation was divine and harkens back to memories of my childhood. Suffice it to say that your home felt like my own and in a new country (new continent and new hemisphere!) that kind of reassuring and comforting feeling is absolutely priceless. Then of course there was our safari in Pilanesberg seeing four of the big six (hippo's are dangerous too) and countless wilflife besides was the fulfillment of years of anticipation - layer in the camping and the never -ending menu and it's a trip I'll cherish. But what I am most appreciative of, in awe of and inspired by is the man you are Alan. This amazement and respect does not end with the end of my time at Swanage. You've left a mark on me that will not soon fade. From a generosity that offers lessons on goodwill toward mankind, to a wit and sharp humour that disarms in English, Zulu or otherwise, and a philosophical spirit that allowed for some of the best conversations I've had. In a country as complex and in-transition as much as South Africa, the visitors to Swanage are so fortunate to have a man as perspicacious as you to help navigate. But more so, a country as wounded a South Africa is beyond blessed to have a devoted healer but it's side. The lessons I have learned from you have made me a better physician and a man and I look forward to our paths crossing again. With Love and Respect Reid Haflich (Boston, USA)

Thank you for a fantastic time at Swanage Alan! What a great time I've had here. I super appreciate all the "local knowledge" you've shared, and the welcoming environment you have created here. Thanks so much for being my South African dad while I was here ! You have been amazing. What a fabulous community you have fostered-made me feel right at home! Jamie

What can we say? Swanage was like a second home. Although when we landed, jet lagged beyond belief we went straight into go-mode with dinner. Within an hour Alan you saved us six thousand rand with your local knowledge and instead of Kruger for a day, you set up our own Safari in the Pilanesberg. These memories will stick with me forever. Although we only stayed for 10 days, it already feels like family. Much Love Darragh. and Justin (Emergency Medicine Physicians).

Dearest Father Alan This is a message that should have been planned because our journey, our home together in Swanage has been so special and a memory I will hold close to my heart for ever. Thank you so much for everything, for the life lessons, the Safari to Pilanesberg. For hosting my brother Paras and for the friendly banter sessions. You truly shared your home with us and for that iam truly grateful and hope you will come visit in New Zealand. Best Wishes, Manshu. (Paras: - Alan you made our stay a home away from home and made me feel so safe even though I was only here for a few days. Thank you so much for everything. I had the best steak ever at your favourite restaurant. You must visit New Zealand