Born into the legacy of Rovos Rail Tours (Pty) Ltd, Tiffany Vos-Thane is the youngest daughter of Rohan and Anthea Vos, raised with an instinct for excellence and a drive to achieve. From provincial hockey fields to the global hospitality stage, her journey reflects resilience and ambition. A graduate of the International Hotel School, Tiffany refined her craft from Cape Town to New York and London. After stints at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, a 10-year tenure in the UK (at Imperial College
Business School in London and rising through the ranks at Starwood Hotels & Resorts), Tiffany felt she had established herself and earned the experience she wanted in order to join the family business. She has been at Rovos since 2018 and serves as the company’s dynamic COO.
1. Have you seen a change in the last five years in what travellers want out of their experiences?
We have seen a shift towards multi-generational experiences that allow families to relax and connect. There is a genuine desire for connection between the team and our guests, rather than a transactional five-star experience. Our guests are eager to learn about our team and gain valuable insights from them.
2. If so, what do you think has prompted this shift?
I feel that the pandemic made many people realise how precious time is, and how important it is to seek out experiences that can include their loved ones.
3. What do you find travellers are increasingly seeking to get out of their trips/travel experiences?
The desire of disconnection from their busy lives while connecting to others is greater than ever.
4. What do you think Rovos taps into about what people look for that makes it such a loved company?
Our team has always been the bright light for our guests, making them feel welcome and cherished. Our traditions have always encouraged guests to switch off, get dressed up, and to immerse themselves in the train and experience completely.
5. As a leading hospitality brand, what in your opinion are the things hospitality companies should absolutely be doing going into 2026 – it can be anything (operational things, ethical stances, how they cultivate company culture…)?
My focus continues to be around our people strategy, which includes culture, leadership, recognition, performance, and development. Taking care of our talent is at the centre of our approach and makes Rovos Rail a desirable place to work where our team stay for many years. Honouring the past, our traditions, and what has always made us strong, are integral to my success in the future.
6 What’s on the horizon for travel – what do you see as the next step in travel’s evolution?
I feel that slower, more intentional travel is here to stay. Yes, technology is going to have an enormous impact on how people book and experience travel, but I feel that people will continue to seek out places to take a breath and switch off.