MURIEL TRUTER

Askari founder and principal Muriel Truter grew up in Zimbabwe and has lived in England, Israel, and Canada and has spent over 20 years exploring adventure travel destinations. Over a lifetime of travel and a career in tourism, Muriel has journeyed extensively, personally visiting over 50 countries. What she has seen has made her even more curious than before; no small feat. Perhaps even more, it has made her want to share what she has seen—the privilege and joy of travel—with others. Both for herself and others, Muriel’s search for new and interesting things never stops—whether it’s finding that perfect unknown hotel or the best cervicheria.  As more of the world makes itself accessible to travellers, Muriel is determined to help others navigate the ever-richer and more complex choices.

BELINDA BARD

Born in Montreal, Belinda Bard caught the travel bug early, travelling to Sweden every summer with her family. As soon as she was old enough, she did everything she could to find work outside of Canada – from camp counselor on an island in the Swedish archipelago to room service and concierge at the Sheraton Stockholm – and then escaped to Paris for one summer under the guise of study at the Sorbonne. This lead to working for two years as a Trip Guide for Butterfield & Robinson in France and Italy. Though she took time off from travelling to work in corporate PR for 15 years and start a family, Belinda is excited to be back where she started and pursuing her true love…travel.

GOA BERGMAN

Goa’s early desire to explore and experience the world turned into 5 years of living, working and travelling across 4 different continents. Her travels brought her many adventures including managing a luxury Island Treehouse Camp, where she even got to be a beekeeper for a day. When she finally returned to her beloved Toronto, she knew that she had continue sharing the world with others.  Things that Goa learned while travelling the world: there is overwhelming goodness in humankind; the world is endlessly magnificent; Crazy Glue can fix anything!

MADELYN TILLEY

Madelyn has travelled to remote and culture-rich destinations her entire life. Born in Zimbabwe and raised in Toronto, she has embraced snow and sea-bound activities. With a passion for scuba-diving; Australia & South East Asia have been some of her top experiences and she has high hopes to return to both. Vancouver Island, Tofino, Mont Tremblant and most of Alberta are her favourite Canadian destinations.  Recently she has explored Portugal, Spain & Morocco. What’s next?  Indonesia and Japan for their culture, history and cuisine are high on her bucket list. She cannot wait to plan your next adventure. 

STEVE ANDREWS

Steve Andrews is an amazing asset to Askari Travel. He has the charm and openness which makes South Africa come alive for travellers. He grew up in South Africa during apartheid and he readily shares with guests’ tales of his youth and the changes, which have taken place in the last 2 decades. However, Steve’s greatest strength is his selfless dedication to service – with his constant smile, engaging personality and ‘nothing is a problem’ attitude. Naturally gravitating towards more active forms of travel Steve has been extensively involved in walking and bicycle trips – he is an awesome bike mechanic and a brilliant dinner companion. What more can you ask for!