Guy Hawthorne, MD and Editor of consumer travel magazine, Travel Ideas and a long-serving member of the travel industry community, has been remembered fondly by his colleagues and many friends.
Hawthorne died in a mountain accident in Cape Town last week. He was 51.
Hawthorne inspired and entertained many in the industry. Co-workers who had become friends described him as a supportive, inspiring leader.
Rian Bornman, MD of FlightSite, said: “Guy's laid-back demeanour disguised a tenacity and work ethic I always admired in the creation of Travel Ideas. You will be sorely missed. Hamba kahle, Guy.”
Franki Clemens, former Assistant Editor at Travel Ideas, said: “He had a remarkable way of making friends with people of all walks of life. I worked with Guy for many years at Travel Ideas magazine and what glorious years they were. It was an immense privilege…”
Tammy Kruger of Travel Marketing Experts, who worked with the Hawthorne family, described a highly-talented and creative travel writer. “I will forever miss his dry sense of humour, cheeky smile and oh, so many, many, many laughs. My heart goes out to Jeff, Paddy, Nicky, his children, sisters, family and friends.”
Hawthorne was an active member of Skål and an avid golfer.
Gary Mulder, Club Travel CEO, who was Hawthorne’s partner at one of the last industry golf tournaments in 2022, said he had played golf with him for many years. “He was such a good guy, on and off the course, and very popular,” said Mulder.
Terry Munro, Beachcomber Tours MD, a fellow member of the Travel Industry Golf Club in the Western Cape, said Hawthorne had been a long-standing member and sponsor of the club. “Our thoughts and prayers are with Jeff, Paddy and his family at this sad time,” Munro said.
“Guy performed well on the golf course, was always competitive, and was liked by all. He had a casual attitude and loved the outdoor life. He was sincere, honest and had a great sense of humour. He was always one of the first to raise his hand to play for the South against the North and was pretty much undefeated over the years. Guy, as you grace the fairways in the sky, know that we will miss you. Rest in peace,” he added.
Natalia Rosa, former Editor of Travel News Weekly and Director of Big Ambitions, also recalled Hawthorne out on the greens. “That cheeky smile will always stay with me, along with his generosity of spirit. He saw the big picture and was passionate about promoting South Africa and its tourism experience. Rest in peace Guy, and heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.”
Flora Fubbs, Director of Operations at the Holiday Factory, said he was a cherished member of the travel industry. “Guy’s passion and invaluable contributions to our industry will always be remembered. Our hearts go out to his family and loved ones during this difficult time.”
The Travel Corporation South Africa extended its sympathies to the Hawthorne family, too: “Our heartfelt condolences and prayers go out to the travel family. We will forever remember Guy (aka Mr GSA & Travel Ideas), a writer that always brought an article to life, the outspoken wit and the kind person that he was. Fly high, Guy.”
Hawthorne’s family said a memorial service would take place in the next few days.
