From Madikwe to the World: The Royal Madikwe on Fred’s Ultimate Hotels
Every so often, a moment comes along that causes you to see something familiar through entirely new eyes. For us, that moment arrived with Fred’s Ultimate Hotels, a brand-new Channel 4 series hosted by television personality and hospitality expert Fred Sirieix as he travels the world in search of some of the finest hotels.
Every so often, a moment comes along that causes you to see something familiar through entirely new eyes. For us, that moment arrived with Fred’s Ultimate Hotels, a brand-new Channel 4 series hosted by television personality and hospitality expert Fred Sirieix as he travels the world in search of some of the finest hotels.
We were incredibly honoured to be selected as one of just four hotels featured in the series, taking our place alongside extraordinary properties from across the globe. Our episode aired on 7 September, giving viewers a glimpse into not only the beauty of the Madikwe Game Reserve but the people, passion and countless details that shape the experience of staying at The Royal.
Watching it unfold on screen was quite something!
For over two decades, our team, led by Dr Chai Patel, have poured their hearts into creating a safari lodge that feels deeply connected to its surroundings, its people and the guests who pass through its doors. To see that story shared with an international audience was an enormously proud moment for the entire Royal Madikwe family.
We marked the occasion with an intimate screening at The Electric Cinema on London’s Portobello Road, where friends, family, travel partners, industry colleagues and treasured guests gathered to watch the show and share in conversation.
During the evening, Dr Patel was also joined by Annabel Heseltine, esteemed British journalist, broadcaster and host of the Resurgence podcast Hope Springs, for a 'fireside' chat exploring his journey with the lodge and the wider conservation story that makes Madikwe itself so remarkable.
After all, the magic captured on screen extends far beyond exceptional suites and amenities. It lies in the joy of introducing others to the African wilderness for the first time. In helping to protect precious and endangered species. And, above all, in the people who make hospitality feel heartfelt. That human element sits at the centre of Fred’s Ultimate Hotels ~ and it made being chosen for the series feel all the more meaningful.
To everyone who joined us in London or watched along from home, sent messages, shared in our excitement, or has been part of The Royal’s story over the years, thank you. We are immensely proud to have shared our small corner of the wild with the world. And if you missed it, our episode of Fred’s Ultimate Hotels is still available to watch over on Channel 4.
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