As prison guard to Nelson Mandela, Christo Brand knows what it is like to spend time with one of history’s great heroic figures. Travel on our Spectacular South Africa luxury guided tour and have the opportunity to meet with him and hear all about if for yourself.

We had the pleasure to talk with Christo, exclusively for Luxury Gold guests. We asked him his standout memories of Nelson Mandela, what he has learned from the experience, as well as his thoughts on South Africa as a destination.

Your journey to Robben Island is one of the highlights of our 9-Day Spectacular South Africa luxury guided tour. Spend the morning at the UNESCO World Heritage site of Robben Island, and take an insightful tour with an ex political prisoner as your guide. You will then return to the mainland for an exclusive lunch with Christo Brand, at the Amy Foundation. Here you will hear fascinating stories about South Africa’s first Black President, a heroic figure who stood for freedom and justice throughout the late 20th century.

Meet Christo Brand

In 1978, aged just 19 years old, Christo arrived at Robben Island where Nelson Mandela (then aged 60) was being held, having just completed his training as a prison guard. There he was one of several guards responsible for guarding Nelson Mandela and they developed a close friendship over the course of many years.

In 1982 Christo was transferred along with Nelson Mandela to Pollsmoor Prison on the mainland. He was responsible for guarding Nelson for a further six years, and their relationship of trust and mutual respect continued. Nelson Mandela was sentenced in 1964 to life imprisonment for sabotage. He was finally released on 11 February 1990, aged 72. On his release, Mandela organised a job for Christo as an administrative and logistics manager in the Constitutional Assembly and their relationship continued.

With so many years spent alongside such a great man, we started by asking Christo to sum up what Luxury Gold guests can expect to take away from this lunch. “What guests can expect is to understand how a Black man and a white man could become friends [in those times],” he affectionately tells us. “How we became friends, how we met each other and how we changed each other’s lives.”

For inspiration: South Africa destination guide

How would you describe Nelson Mandela to guests?

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“When describing Nelson Mandela to people I always say he was a down to earth, humble person,” Christo remembers fondly. “He was a person who would go out of his way to make others happy around him and give his last away to people to make them smile. He was also a person who loved to educate.

“I met him as a prison guard, and I met him out of prison, and he was exactly the same. He hadn’t changed. When he retired, he was a still a humble person. He would even stand up for me to greet me with that respect. He treated all people with respect.”

What is your most standout memory of your time together?

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 “There are a lot of standout moments, but one of the biggest was when I handed a baby to him.” Christo recalls of one occasion when Nelson’s wife Winnie came to Robben Island and she brought a baby with her. It was one of his grandchildren and they managed to enable Nelson to see the baby. “He was not allowed to see children,” Christo explains “When he took the baby from me in that moment, he got so emotional he had tears in his eyes. I could not believe someone could be so hungry for a child like that. That emotion, that is something I will never forget.”

Was there a particular moment when you realized he was special?

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 “Nelson Mandela was always a peacemaker,” Christo tells us. “I could see it when there was maybe an argument on the section between two prisoners or a prisoner and a guard. Mandela was the one who walked in and could interact and bring peace and harmony between the two. Immediately when he stared talking, he could calm people down in the heat of the moment, that was something very special.”

How has this experience shaped you as a person?

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 “Nelson Mandela was a person who reached out for people. He always believed that people are more important than yourself, and the more you help people the more you will be blessed with good life.” Christo replies of his learnings as prison guard to Nelson Mandela. “He taught me that even if you don’t see it today or you don’t see it tomorrow, in life good things will come to your side and you won’t know why, but it will be that person. We should focus on respecting each other as human beings on this planet, by reaching out for people. And that has shaped my life to make a better world for people.”

What is so special about South Africa?

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 “South Africa is a beautiful country and is famous for its diversity. From our coastal areas, the dramatic mountains through to the famous Kruger National Park and our many other parks there is something for everyone,” Christo explains. “Also, its people are known for their friendliness and hospitality and our food and wine are exceptional, especially our wine.

“The country has a lot to offer, there is a lot of history in South Africa, a history of change. Through Nelson Mandela’s’ story we can tell that change. He walked out of prison with a changed mindset. He followed the footsteps of Martin Luther King and Mahatma Ghandi in that he was that type of person also.”

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What is the one thing in South Africa everyone should see?

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“Table Mountain. If you are in Cape Town don’t miss out the mountain,” Christo enthuses. This flat-topped mountain, at 1,085 meters high, is Cape Town’s most iconic and photographed landmark “This is the only place on the world from which you can enjoy such a spectacular view, including two World Heritage Sites. Table Mountain National Park being one itself and you can also see Robben Island.”

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Spectacular South Africa

If you would love to meet Christo Brand, former prison guard to Nelson Mandela then take a look at our Spectacular South Africa luxury guided tour. A showcase of beautiful wilderness, eclectic cultures, warm hospitality and rich heritage, this tour will take you from cosmopolitan Cape Town into the heart of Big Five territory. Discover Robben Island, Table Mountain, the finest wineries and view iconic wildlife on a luxury safari.vAnd, why not extend your journey aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail for a timeless journey to the mighty Victoria Falls?

One of the bonuses of travel is discovering the culture of your destination, including statement art and local artisans. Investing in statement art pieces may pay off in years to come and is its own reward. It can also require thoughtful planning to attend art fairs, galleries and auction houses. Browsing online auction houses is one approach. However, art can pop up in both expected and unexpected places. Do your research ahead of time on events occurring in the cities you’re traveling to. Be sure to also let your Travel Concierge know that you’re in the market to buy art.

Why buy statement art pieces 

“Why buy art” you ask? Many people buy art as something to remember their travels by. That handmade mask or shawl will take you right back to the sights, sounds and smells of a local market. However, statement art pieces can also serve as conversation pieces. Your dinner guests will want to hear your travel stories when they admire that colorful tapestry or unique sculpture. Art is a great way to engage your guests in your adventures, with no slideshow required.

How to find local art pieces 

Statement art pieces don’t have to be expensive. Some of the most memorable pieces of art are found in unlikely spots. Local markets are great spots to uncover a unique piece of art. Shopping for art in local markets also gives you a focus on how to approach your experience and interact with the locals. You can’t see and do it all, so going into a market with a mission gives you a window into the culture. Be sure to look into the local customs around negotiating, too. Here are a few of our favorite experiences with artisans and markets: 

Local artisans and markets 

In Italy, discover classic Venetian crafts from elaborate carnival masks and marbleized paper to the ancient skill of glassblowing now practiced by a few masters. Why not pick up a one-of-a-kind piece to take home?

In Perugia, visit the Church of Saint Francis of the Women to get an inside look at the ancient loom-weaving techniques of Umbria from a fourth-generation weaver. Admire and be inspired by the classic decorative motifs that are also found in the works of Giotto, Ghirlandaio and da Vinci.

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On the other side of the globe, discover more amazing textiles and be inspired by traditional weaving techniques in Peru at the Center for Traditional Textiles of Cusco.  

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 The markets of India are great spots to pick up stunning souvenirs and art pieces. 

Peruse the fine silks, embroidery, leather, brassware, shawls, carved wooden boxes and intricate silver jewelry in the bazaar of the medieval trading city of Jaisalmer. In Jodhpur’s Sardar Market, browse the famous Bandhini, a traditional Rajasthani handcrafted cloth, and other embroidered leather items, lacquer handicrafts and puppets. And in Udaipur, Venice of the East, find the perfect piece of brassware, one of the famous Rajasthani puppets, Bandhani and Batik sarees or colorful handmade jutti shoes.   

Where to get inspired 

Needing a little inspiration for that perfect purchase? Our tours take you to some of the world’s most impressionable museums, many before or after opening hours to the public. From Hue, Vietnam’s intimate Tran Dinh Son Museum to the unique Itchiku Kubota Art Museum in the shadow of Mount Fuji and Cairo’s Egyptian Museum, you’ll have countless opportunities to be inspired by the works of masters—both little and well known.  

Back in Venice, Italy, enter the Doge’s Palace and ascend the gold staircase for an after-hours tour of the art, culture and history of the Venetian Republic. 

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In Austria, enjoy a VIP, after-hours visit to Vienna’s magnificent, Baroque Schönbrunn Palace. Admire the mirrored hall where Mozart made music as a six-year-old prodigy and the Grand Gallery decorated in golden stucco, ceiling frescoes and gold-plated chandeliers.   

Lastly in Melk Abbey, view the 16,000-volume collection in the main library and gaze up at the Paul Troger fresco on the hall ceiling as an Expert Guide talks you through its fascinating history.  

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Stumped on how to make a good investment?  

Like any investment, delving into the world of art investment requires research of the museums, galleries and auction houses you plan to visit, both on and offline. But when you’re traveling, it’s good to have a little help on where to explore. Like so many other aspects of your journey, your Travel Concierge can help with organizing where to go to check out local art and perhaps even advise on shipping. They’re here to help and enrich your journey from stunning sights to statement art.  

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Where will your search for statement art pieces take you?

Let me introduce you to Pink City Rickshaw. Rajasthan’s capital of Jaipur lives up to its nickname of The Pink City. Upon arrival, you can see the distinctive salmon hue across the city’s skyline. But beyond appearance, it’s also a place that is steeped in heritage. Traditional folk song and dance, textile markets, handmade designer shopping and local cuisine are all part of Jaipur’s rich culture. 

Newer additions are the bright pink, custom-designed and eco-friendly Jaipur rickshaws driven by local women. What better way to see the city sights? It’s more than just a fun way to explore Jaipur. Pink City Rickshaw employs female rickshaw drivers and offers a unique opportunity to help support more than 200 local women from low-income households. 

Employing and empowering women who often have no work opportunities prior to guiding Jaipur tours, Pink City Rickshaw equips its employees with professional training and opportunities for economic empowerment among their communities. 

Does that sound like your kind of ride? Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience on our Essence of India with Ranthambore luxury guided tour to meet these women for yourself and learn all about the initiative. Hop in, share stories and see the magnificent sights of Jaipur. 

“Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences are a beautiful exchange of values between our guests and the people that we meet,” explains Lucie Dalila, Sustainability Manager, Travel Experiences at Luxury Gold “This is a two-way experience – a sharing of stories, ideas and knowledge that shines a whole new light on your destination. We all leave feeling empowered, inspired and keen to contribute even more.” 

Empowering local women 

Puja Gour, Vice President of ACCESS Development Services, a nonprofit organization based in Jaipur, that partners with Pink City Rickshaw tells us: “Empowering women is our main initiative but creating an engaging and curated experience on our sightseeing tours is a top priority as well. Tourism meets philanthropy as you are guided through the medieval mystique of the walled city, seeing the local culture and sites through the eyes of the smart, enthusiastic and knowledgeable women who navigate Jaipur’s streets.” 

A modern icon since the 1880s 

“The presence of rickshaws in India has played an important role, from the electric cities to the smaller towns of rural regions,” explains Puja. “Growing up in Patna in Bihar, we didn’t have a public transportation system. Hopping on a rickshaw (usually hired by a family or friend) for weekly outings with other neighborhood children continues to hold a warm place in my heart.  While the city’s rickshaw industry has traditionally been dominated by men, the societal backdrop is adapting to the transition of new drivers — giving women the power to gain professional experience and income, while also giving you a fuller experience compared to the standard point A-to-B taxi service.” 

Soaking up the sites 

Sites like the 16th-century Amber Palace and UNESCO world heritage site Jantar Mantar observatory are part of what draw so many visitors to the magic of Jaipur. Stroll Amber Palace’s cobbled paths and take in views of Maota Lake. The magnificent City Palace is home to Mughal and Rajput architecture. It is also the present residence to the last ruling royal family who live in a private section of the palace. 

You’ll also get lost in some more off-the-beaten path destinations. Explore the partially hidden lower level of Mansagar, a beautiful place of solitude often overlooked by the masses.  When you take a tour with the women of Jaipur, you’re making a personal impact on the local community and contributing to a cleaner environment. You’re also experiencing the magic of one of India’s most dynamic cities. 

Feeling inspired to rickshaw around Jaipur? 

Jaipur is a featured destination on our Essence of India with Ranthambore and Spirit of North & South India luxury guided tours. 

Travel to Jaipur with us and enjoy the opulent rooms of the 5-star Jai Mahal Palace.  Discover the 18 acres of Mughal style gardens in this magnificent hotel showcasing Rajasthan’s stunning heritage. 

Sample the best of the city’s exquisite food. Dine at the sumptuous 1135 AD, with its royal interior, traditional music and breathtaking sunset views. And, celebrate the final night of your voyage at the Cinnamon Restaurant in Jai Mahal Palace. Here the chef expertly blends traditional and contemporary cuisine from the four princely states of India. It’s an unforgettable feast. 

Visit our website for more information on all our luxury guided tours to India. Download our interactive brochure for 2022 & 2023 Worldwide tours. And learn more about our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences.