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?

Investing in luggage that lasts is necessary for any world traveler. But how do you choose luggage that fits your style and destination when your travels may range from epic safaris to multi-week South American tours and holidays in Europe? You want to invest in quality pieces that match your travel style and can adapt to your travel interests. A more active adventure one year can lead to a more relaxed journey the next—and you don’t want to have to reinvest each year. Here’s our tips on how to choose luggage bags to go the distance. 

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 The best travel luggage for tours 

Joining us on one of our tours? We’re so glad to have you! An ideal piece of travel luggage will take you to a range of destinations and tours. For most Luxury Gold journeys from 7 to 22 days, a sturdy wheeled suitcase will go the distance and still be easy to move from between destinations. We love a collection of hardback wheeled suitcases to have at the ready. Grab the smallest size for long weekends. It also makes an excellent “traveling companion” for journeys longer than a week with cruise or train getaway.

Best luggage bag for getaways 

Speaking of getaways… When your tour includes one of our unique getaways by train, ship or even vintage car, you want the best luggage bag to keep you mobile, ready and stylish. A smart leather duffel ensures that you have room for overnight clothing and necessities—as well as room for a few souvenirs. A duffel bag is also easy to stash in train or ship compartments. Our Vietnam tours that include an overnight cruise in Ha Long Bay are the perfect place to take a chic carry-on bag. 

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Best luggage bag for trains 

Train journeys are one of the most exciting and intimate ways to immerse yourself in the landscape. What better way to take in the Scottish Highlands, Rocky Mountains or South African landscape than watching it just outside your window? A roomy duffel or large handled bag ensures you have everything you need, and nothing you don’t. 

RELATED CONTENT: 7 of the world’s most luxurious train journeys 

Best travel bag for day trips 

Should your travels take you on more active adventures, you’ll want the best travel bag for hands-free exploration. A chic yet adventure-ready back pack is the ideal choice for day trips. Whether you’re taking in the grand scenery of Banff National Park or venturing through a charming European town, a small pack has room for all the necessities. Pack your wallet, phone/camera, a layer or two and off you go. 

RELATED CONTENT: Where the wilderness and luxury combine: Step inside the Lion Sands Game Reserve 

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Best travel bag for epic drives 

Drive in the country, anyone? A simple crossbody bag will take you from your luxury hotel to a picnic (rest assured your Travel Concierge has packed a lovely spread) to an acclaimed winery. We love the look of a crossbody bag as both a fashion accessory and travel bag. Our Ultimate France tour chauffeurs you through the countryside in a vintage Citroen 2CV to Domaine de la Citadelle. Our tour of Italy finds you arriving in style for your overnight stay in Capri by open-top taxi. 

Investing in luggage for a lifetime

Investing in luggage is a combination of style and necessity. You want to make a purchase that will last through your upcoming adventure and beyond. A bag that matches the destinations you want to explore as well as your personal style. A bag that is manageable and keeps you light on your feet. Your favorite piece of luggage is one aspect of your travels you can own, feel proud of and that will keep you stress-free. Because once you arrive, your Travel Concierge is on hand to cater to your needs. Just pack your bags and we’ll take care of the rest.  

RELATED CONTENT: 7 ways Luxury Gold makes your travel experience completely stress free 

Where will your luggage take you next?