FOUNDER
Hi, I'm Daniela, founder and owner of D-Side Travel
Those who know me describe me as a lifelong traveler with many miles clocked to date! Travel has always been an absolute passion of mine, as has great food and wine and sharing these experiences with my family and friends. The saying 'will travel for food' describes me perfectly and dining together is one of my life's obsessions - no trip is complete without a range of exciting culinary experiences!
My love for this industry was sparked by my early travels to Southeast Asia in the late 90’s, culminating with my very first trip to South Africa and Botswana in 2003. After that, there was no turning back… As a mother and wife to a hotelier, when it comes to “opinions” on hotels and family destinations, I certainly have a lot of insight and high standards! I travel with my daughter, Vesper, all over the world and have a deep understanding of the meaning ‘child-friendly’ (it's not always what you think - trust me).
I was born and raised in Sicily and so have that enthusiastic Italian flair in all I set my mind to. I later spent 21 years living in New York before moving to South Africa in 2008. Cape Town is now my base and I have fallen head over heels for Africa. There is such an immense wealth of rich experiences to explore from savannah to mountains, beaches, deserts, a tapestry of history to learn and people to meet.
My European upbringing, combined with time living in the States, ensures that I have an intrinsic understanding of both European and American travelers and your needs in terms of travel. From my office in Cape Town (with a branch in Georgia), I specialize in bespoke experiences for families, honeymooners, empty nesters, and adventure travelers, to mention a few.
I live for detail and pride myself on truly understanding what you're wanting to feel and experience on your journey to Africa, anticipating your needs and ensuring your travel experience is as seamless as it is memorable. You can expect journeys I plan to deliver unexpected surprises and magical moments you'll love…..on the D-side!
Speak to me about a journey on daniela@d-sidetravel.com
FINANCIAL DIRECTOR
Shand McGlashan is a seasoned travel and hospitality executive with deep rooted experience in all aspects of hotel & restaurant operations and accounting. A graduate of Napier University in Scotland with a Degree in Hospitality & Institutional Management, Shand has worked extensively in East Africa, Scotland, South Africa and the USA where she now resides. Having previously managed all team travel for the large Kennesaw University Athletic and Sports Departments, she consults as the Financial Controller for several hospitality companies and works as a Financial Director at D-Side Travel.
SALES ASSOCIATE
Francesca caught the travel bug as a teenager after a family trip to Greece. This inspired her to study and embark on a career in travel.
This career has spanned over 20 years and included extensive travel in over 20 countries. Francesca lived and worked in London for 11 years before returning to her Happy Place – Cape Town- where she lives with her husband and 2 kids! When not busy assisting D-Side Travel clients, you can find her walking on Fish Hoek Beach for hours.
Contact Francesca on sales@d-sidetravel.com
