Rene is the manageress of The St James Retreat.

HTLW: Tell us a little about yourself?
Rene: I view myself as a friendly peoples person who enjoys interacting at all levels. I love to paint, watch movies, cook and enjoy life to the full.

HTLW: Why do you love working at The Last Word?
Rene: The Last Word has become part of my family; I have grown as a manager and a person. Everyday is a new experience and I love every minute of it.

HTLW: What's the funniest moment you’ve had at the Retreat or with a guest?
Rene: A guest came back from a Cape Point Tour with Eleanor wanting to cry and laugh at the same time. On their trip, after walking the beautiful reserve, they found a spot to picnic and had just gotten settled when they were joined by a family of baboons who had invited themselves to the picnic and were not prepared to share. The guests and Eleanor had to just stand back and watch as the baboons ate their gourmet lunch, attempted to drive the van they were in and use it as a toilet. When they had had enough to eat and enough entertainment they all casually walked back up the mountain. The guests had hoped to see baboons and this experience will stay with them forever.

HTLW: What do you think guests love the most about The St James?
Rene: It’s a magnificent house situated in a beautiful village away from the city. It’s everything, from the house and tranquil surroundings to the attention in every detail. Our guests always leave feeling like family and that’s what we strive for.

HTLW: What’s your favourite thing about Cape Town?
Rene: Summer. The beautiful beaches, arts and nightlife. There is never a dull moment and we are surrounded by such beauty all year round, who could ask for a better place to live.