Welcome To Hermanus | Melanie Musson
5 Star Service…
Melanie Musson has been in Hermanus for over 20 years. This gorgeous local lass is the guest house manager of Whale Rock Lodge. Mel or Melly as she is known amongst her friends is the person that you want when it comes to overseeing your stay. Her warmth and loving nature overflow into every area of her life and it is always a pleasure running into her!
See what she had to say to us…
When did you come to Hermanus?
We moved here in 1980, I went to school here, left to go work in Cape Town, but then decided to move back about 20 years ago.
Why did you decide on coming back to Hermanus?
I decided that it was time for me to get out of Cape Town. I had the opportunity of getting married to my husband who is an old Hermanus local and to be nearer to my folks.
What made you decide to become part of the hospitality industry?
I actually qualified as a legal secretary, but the salaries were so bad in Hermanus that I ended up as a receptionist at the Marine Hotel. I discovered that I enjoyed working with people, was approached by Chris and Shelagh Milton to run Whale Rock Lodge and I have been there ever since!
The best part of my job is…
Having a guest acknowledge and compliment my team and myself on all the hard work that goes into running a busy guest house and knowing that they had a wonderful experience.
The worst part of my job is…
That one guest that you can never make happy no matter what you try.
What is the most important advice that you could give to a person when it comes to choosing holiday accommodation?
Make sure you do some research – that advertised sea view may only be a sliver between some high rise buildings. If you are not into kids, then don’t go to a place which is child friendly and decide whether you would like to be anonymous in which case, stay in a hotel, or be on a more personal level, in which case look at a B&B or guest house.
My favourite room service is…
Making a guest feel pleasantly surprised by five star service for a four star establishment.
Mel’s Motto: Be so happy that when others look at you they become happy too!
Hermanus is…
Pure therapy for the soul!
I love Hermanus in the…
Autumn – Love the sunny days and cool nights, any excuse for a fire and a glass of red wine!
My favourite place in Hermanus is…
The sea is first and foremost, watching that energy makes me feel very humble, especially when the whales grace us with their presence. I also love the Hemel & Aarde Valley – just love the scenery and the space, and of course the fantastic wine estates.
My favourite place in the world is…
My home, I just love being with my family, animals and friends.
I wish I knew then what I do know about…
Being positive, it really does rub off on others.
My best memories are…
Going down the “Plaat” in my husband, Alistair’s, old Landie, braaing fresh crayfish and sleeping on the beach.
The good old days – the Hermanus High School, drum majorette squad. That’s me, middle row, third from the right.