Liz and Phil’s journey to South Africa began in 2000, when they relocated permanently from the UK with a shared passion for education and community development. Their early years were spent working in the education sector, immersing themselves in the culture and vibrant communities of their new home.

By 2006, the call for a new chapter led them to Cape Town, where they purchased a charming, somewhat-forgotten guesthouse called Parker Cottage. With little more than vision, dedication, and a deep love for hospitality, they began the slow but steady process of transforming it. Over the course of eight years, they grew Parker Cottage into one of the most celebrated guesthouses in the city—rising from number 148 to number 1 on TripAdvisor. Their exceptional service, warm hospitality, and commitment to ethical tourism earned them the top spot for three consecutive years, along with the prestigious Fair Trade in Tourism accreditation—an award that recognises businesses for their dedication to social and environmental responsibility.

Having brought the guesthouse to its peak, Liz and Phil turned their attention to a new dream. Drawing on years of insider knowledge, a deep understanding of the country, and a passion for responsible travel, they founded Where It All Began—a travel consultancy dedicated to curating personalised, independent, and ethically conscious journeys through South Africa. Their mission remains rooted in the values they brought with them from the very beginning: authentic experiences, sustainable tourism, and a love for the people and places that make South Africa unforgettable.