In the first of our Meet the Dana Tours team series, we’d like to introduce you to Stephanie von Allmen, Dana Tours General Manager. Stephanie chatted to us about her favourite secret hidden spots in Mozambique and shares some things you probably don’t know about her.
Tell us about yourself Stephanie?
I was born in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, and am half Swiss and half Mozambican. I was raised in Maputo.
My husband is Portuguese and our 1 year old son is our shining light. But he also knows how to keep us on our toes! We are a family who loves to travel, always between Portugal and Mozambique.
We are blessed to be able to do so and spend time with family in both countries and on both continents.
How did you join the Dana Tours team?
After returning home from university in 2010, I landed my first part time job at a small and lovely language school in 2011.I worked there as their office manager but always wanted to get back into tourism as it was my major at university.
I managed to get a job at Mozaic Travel (a Mozambican inbound tour operator) and as it so happened, a sister company to Dana Tours. I worked part time at the language school and part time at Mozaic Travel before moving full time to Mozaic Travel.
I gained a lot of experience during my time running the office at Mozaic Travel and then moved on to Dana Tours in 2014. I couldn’t ask for a greater job or a better team!
What do you enjoy about your job?
Everything! From working with an unbelievable team who genuinely care about each other to helping people explore and discover Mozambique. I also enjoy participating in international travel shows and meeting new clients and suppliers. I love telling them about my country and hopefully spiking their interest to visit Mozambique.
What do you do in your spare time?
I play with my 1 year old – at times it can be relaxing! I also enjoy reading and watching series.
Travelling is big on my family’s list too. We love to explore, anywhere and anyhow, from international travel to discovering new places in Mozambique.
Let us in on a secret – your favourite place in Mozambique?
Ilha de Moçambique. My Mozambican side of the family is originally from Ilha so it holds a special place in my heart. I just feel at home every time I visit.
It’s a tiny island filled with smiling, friendly people who are eager to share their stories and it holds so much culture.
Share your favourite Mozambican dish?
Timbawene. It’s a local dish made of Nhemba beans and prawns. Delicious!
What can guests expect to find in Mozambique?
Untouched stretches of beach and friendly people. But really visitors can actually find a bit of everything from safari and beach to culture. And all untouched and unspoilt.
What do visitors and clients love about Mozambique when they visit?
The warm climate almost all year round, the gorgeous beaches and the people. Visitors love hearing local stories, especially when told by our amazing guides.
What are you most grateful for?
My family, friends and good health.
What have you always wanted to do?
I think I’m doing what I’ve always wanted to do. I’m happy so I can’t think of anything else to be honest. Maybe to help out more – help more people in need! Help the environment more! Help more animals!
Tell us something most people don’t know about you?
I cringe at the thought and prospect of public speaking.
What do you want everyone in the world to know right now?
That we are in this together. Of course, some people are in better positions than others, but ultimately we are facing these uncertain times together.
We should all keep strong and remain positive that there is a light at the end of this tunnel. Try to cherish time at home with your loved ones and use the internet and technology to stay in touch with people who matter to you.
And remember, Mozambique is waiting for you when this is all over.
Want to ask Stephanie a question about Mozambique? Contact her and the team here for your Mozambican travel needs, questions or simply to say hi.
