Thusie Pather

Thusie Pather is the owner and founder of Golf Course Boutique Guest House, she says with a smile that carries both pride and gratitude. Situated in the tranquil suburb of Mount Edgecombe, the guest house is just a short walk from the Mount Edgecombe Country Club and driving range. With thirteen beautifully appointed bedrooms, the guest house is a haven for both business and leisure travellers. Thusie’s journey into hospitality is deeply personal and inspired by her love for people and travel. “I love travelling, and I love staying in hotels and guest houses,” she explains. “I decided to open my own guest house because I love being around people. It felt like a natural step for me.”

Growing up in a close-knit Indian household, Thusie learned the art of hospitality from her parents. “My
parents were always very hospitable. We always had relatives staying over, sharing meals, laughter, and stories. That sense of warmth and togetherness inspired me to create a space where guests could feel the same kind of homeliness and happiness,” she recalls.

Today, that very ethos defines the atmosphere at Golf Course Boutique Guest House. From the moment guests arrive, they are welcomed not just into a property, but into a home.

BUILDING A BRAND
Thusie’s focus on high service standards has become the cornerstone of her success. “I am very hands-on in
my business to ensure the service levels are maintained,” she explains. “I also encourage my staff to uphold those same standards, and that’s why our guests return time and time again.”

The guest house enjoys a loyal following of corporate and leisure clients. “Our guests always compliment us
on the cleanliness of the rooms and the friendliness of the staff,” Thusie says proudly. “It is very rewarding when they come back not only a second time, but three or four times. That tells me we are doing something right.” Such consistency has not gone unnoticed. Golf Course Boutique Guest House holds a four-star grading from the Tourism Grading Council and has been recognised as a benchmark property, even earning an invitation to exhibit at the prestigious Travel Indaba for the past three years. “That was such an honour,” Thusie reflects. “It really validated the hard work we have put in.”

Further testament to her commitment is the guest house’s impressive online reputation. “On Booking.com,
we have maintained a 9.2 out of 10 rating for service levels for the past three years,” she shares. “It means a
lot because those scores come directly from guests’ feedback.”

In 2024, the guest house received the Durban Tourism Award for Service Excellence in the non-hotel category. “That was one of our proudest moments,” she says warmly. “It reminded us that dedication and passion do get recognised.”

For Thusie, maintaining excellence requires constant reflection and adaptation. “We look at every review, good
or bad,” she explains. “We take every comment seriously and see it as an opportunity to improve. Training our staff regularly ensures we stay consistent and grow as a team.”Her vision for the future is clear. “My dream is to build a strong brand and a reputation for exceptional service,” she says. “I want people to know they can always find a place that feels like home when they come to Golf Course Boutique Guest House. I also hope to expand and offer more services in the future.”

OVERCOMING CHALLENGES
Like many small business owners, Thusie faced significant challenges, particularly during the early days of her venture. “I opened during the Covid period,” she recalls. “It was a very uncertain time, and I had to adapt quickly. There were so many changes, but I was determined to make it work.” Operational costs, including rising utility bills and marketing expenses, continue to pose difficulties. “Marketing is very costly for a small business,” she admits. “But we find creative ways to overcome these challenges. Exceptional service is our biggest marketing tool because word of mouth brings guests back and attracts new ones. Her resilience and adaptability have been key to navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. “You learn as you go,” she says with a quiet confidence. “I did not have a background in hospitality when I started, but I believed in myself. You face challenges, overcome them, and you grow stronger through each experience.”

To aspiring entrepreneurs, Thusie offers heartfelt advice. “Start small, work hard, and never give up,” she says firmly. “You do not need to have everything figured out at the beginning. When I started, I did not think I could run a guest house, but with time and effort, I learned. The most rewarding part is seeing how far you have come.”Running a guest house, she adds, is not for the fainthearted. “It is a 24/7 job. There is always something happening, and you have to be available,” she admits.

“But despite the challenges, it is incredibly fulfilling. You meet people from all walks of life, learn about their
journeys, and share in their stories. Every day brings something new.” Amid her busy schedule, Thusie remains mindful of balance. “I make time for my child and my spiritual practices,” she shares. “Meditation and attending spiritual meetings help me stay centred. It reminds me to be grateful and to approach my work with kindness and calm.”

Her story is one of determination, faith, and the enduring spirit of hospitality. From her humble beginnings rooted in family warmth to her growing recognition in the tourism industry, Thusie embodies what it means to lead with heart.

As she looks toward the future, her ambitions remain grounded in service and sincerity. “This journey is still
new,” she says thoughtfully. “The guest house is only four years old, but I have big dreams. I want to keep growing, keep improving, and keep welcoming guests who feel at home here. That is what true hospitality is all about.