Xigera Safari Lodge
Okavango Delta, Botswana
A luxury safari lodge in Botswana's Okavango Delta
The story of Xigera Safari Lodge is one of renewal. Of rebirth and family legacy, and of the pioneering spirit that drives us to seek out Africa’s wild spaces. The same spirit that inspired this remarkable reimagining, perhaps a complete reinvention, of an Okavango Delta safari. This is Xigera (pronounced ‘kee-jera’), named for the Pied Kingfisher that makes its home amid the watery channels of Botswana’s Moremi Game Reserve. Every aspect is handcrafted to beguile our guests’ senses and stir their souls – from the evocative interiors to one-of-a-kind encounters. But Xigera is equally a line in the sand. A raising of the bar. A bold statement in the realm of luxury safaris in Botswana, and an Okavango Delta safari experience like no other.
Andrew Pike
General Manager
apike@rchmail.comMy role at The Milestone is to lead our team of over 100 employees to ensure that the service and product we provide our valued guests is second to none and that, having once experienced The Milestone, our guests will not want to stay anywhere else. If you have not been one of our guests before it would be my pleasure to welcome you to our fine hotel. A few members of my team below would also like to introduce themselves.
Blake Sur
Director of Middle East Operations
bsur@rchmail.comA well-travelled hospitality and culture expert, I am passionate about providing the utmost luxury and personalised care to each and every guest who stays at our hotel. With more than 10 years' experience in the hospitality and hotel industry, I pride myself on my ability to ensure that our guests enjoy unparalleled experiences and create memories that will be talked about for years to come.
Sarah Bristow
Head of UK Reservations
sbristow@rchmail.comI am delighted to lead a wonderful team in the UK, taking care of our guests' reservations. Let us know whether you will be celebrating your honeymoon, birthday, or wedding. It would be our pleasure to oversee your bedroom allocation and put in a special request prior to your arrival. We can also organise any additional extras you may like such as chocolates, champagne and strawberries, which would be waiting for you upon arrival. We will ensure that your stay will be one you fondly remember.
Pranav Ahuja
Senior Executive Manager, Hotel Services
pahuja@rchmail.comMy ultimate wish is for each guest to leave The Milestone with a big smile on their face and with a promise to return to us. As Senior Executive Manager, I work with my team, with the same goal in mind each day to ensure that every guest experiences the warmest, personalised and attentive service possible at all times. I personally look forward to welcoming you to The Milestone Hotel & Residences on your next stay.
Leo Forte
Senior Executive Manager, Food & Beverage
lforte@rchmail.comI began Front of House, experiencing the incredible standards of service and quality provided here at The Milestone Hotel. I moved to the Food & Beverage department in 2018, where I continue to take pride in the way in which we go above and beyond guests' expectations time and again. It is my pleasure to take care of your dining experience when you stay with us - please contact me directly with any special requests, whether that is a favourite table or you are celebrating a special occasion.
Tzveta Ivanova
Senior Executive Manager, Housekeeping
tivanova@rchmail.comI have a great passion for cleanliness and the exceptional importance of every single small detail, from beautiful turndowns to thoughtful gifts and surprises. It is truly an honour to take care of this historical building. My team and I will be happy to fulfill any special wishes you might have, from pillow choices to mattress toppers. I am also on hand to answer any questions about sanitisation procedures and welfare measures.
Daniel Putz
Excutive Chef
dputz@rchmail.comI have been a chef for more than half my life, with experience in Southeast Asia and The Ritz London. My aim is to make great, classic, modern British food that’s seasonal and suitable for everyone. For me, the seasons are defined by food and it’s important to stay in touch with local suppliers and producers. I want to give all of our guests an extraordinary experience, including our vegan and vegetarian guests, by shining a light on plant-based cooking.
Grant Cockburn
Food & Beverage Operations Manager
gcockburn@rchmail.comI have been the Operations Manager in the Food & Beverage department at this wonderful mansion house property since 2009, having previously spent three years at our sister property The Egerton House Hotel. The ethos of generous hospitality is one to which we undoubtedly live up to. From dietary requirements to special dishes, I am here to ensure that your dining experience with us is exceptional.
Serdal (Sej) Hassan
Chief Engineer
My aim is to ensure all maintenance is carried out to the standard that this beautiful building deserves, helping to preserve its heritage and historical features. I can enhance your Sky television system, set up a Chrome Cast or provide a DVD player or PlayStation with games. I can also arrange for a mini-fridge to be fitted pre-stay if you wish to store your own drinks, snacks or medication, and assist with any queries about our state-of-the-art ventilation cooling and heating system.
Jose Pauco
Head Concierge
conciergems@rchmail.comMy love affair started at The Milestone Hotel in 1999 when I joined the concierge team. I now find myself as the Head Concierge at one of the most prestigious hotels in London, our motto being “No request is too large, no detail too small”. I was born in London and have great passion and knowledge about this special city. My team and I are here at your disposal, and we look forward to booking you the most sought-after tickets and helping you to uncover London's hidden gems.
