From Johannesburg to America: Taking Americans to Play Golf in South Africa-Ep 84 with Murray Collier

<p><strong>When Murray Collier left South Africa for the United States, the plan was simple: gain some international experience and eventually decide what came next.</strong></p><p>Reality turned out to be very different.</p><p>Despite a strong career in South Africa, Murray spent 18 months searching for work after arriving in Chicago. It was a lonely and financially difficult period that tested both him and his wife. From sharing a tiny studio apartment with Airbnb guests to eventually building a successful corporate career, his story is one of resilience, determination and starting again from scratch. </p><p>Today, Murray has combined his passion for golf with his love for South Africa by founding <strong>South Africa Golf Tours</strong>, introducing American golfers to the country's world-class golf courses, spectacular wildlife, incredible food and wine, and unforgettable hospitality. </p><p>In this episode, we discuss the realities of emigrating to the United States, overcoming loneliness, adapting to American life, raising a family abroad, and why South Africans continue to make an impact wherever they go.</p><p>We also explore why South Africa remains one of the world's greatest golf and safari destinations—and why so many American visitors return home with a completely different view of the country. </p><p>It's an inspiring conversation about perseverance, identity and discovering that sometimes the best way to appreciate where you come from is to see it through someone else's eyes.</p><p><em>"I'm South African first... I get to stand with a foot on each continent."</em> </p><p>_______________________________________________________________</p><p>For over 30 years <strong>Sable International</strong> has offered seamless solutions that simplify the complexities of cross-border movement and financial management, so that you can focus on what matters most – building your future beyond borders.</p><p>Find out how Sable International can support your journey:</p><p><a href="https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">https://bit.ly/3R3g1sy</a></p><p>______________________________________________________________</p><p>TIMESTAMPS</p><p>00:00 – Introducing Murray Collier</p><p>01:08 – Growing up in Johannesburg and studying at Stellenbosch</p><p>02:30 – Moving to Chicago</p><p>05:15 – Eighteen months without finding a job</p><p>08:00 – Loneliness and adapting to life in America</p><p>10:30 – Chicago winters and moving to Connecticut</p><p>12:10 – Financial struggles and renting out their apartment</p><p>18:10 – The South African community in the US</p><p>21:20 – Why he started South Africa Golf Tours</p><p>24:00 – Selling South Africa to American travellers</p><p>27:10 – Creating luxury golf and safari experiences</p><p>35:30 – Leopard Creek, Rovos Rail and Gary Player</p><p>39:10 – Building relationships with American golf clubs</p><p>41:20 – Americans' biggest misconception about South Africa</p><p>43:10 – Seeing South Africa through American eyes</p><p>46:30 – Would he ever move back?</p><p>48:10 – Advice for South Africans considering the USA</p><p><br /></p><p>Connect with Murray Collier</p><p>🌍 Website:<br /><a target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">www.southafricagolftours.com</a></p><p>💼 LinkedIn: Murray Collier</p><p>📸 Instagram / X: @SouthAfricaGolfTours</p><p><strong>Connect with The Relocated South African</strong></p><p>🌍 Website</p><p><a href="http://www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com" target="_blank" rel="ugc noopener noreferrer">www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com</a></p><p>🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms.</p><p>If Murray's story resonated with you, please share this episode with someone considering a move to the United States—or anyone passionate about golf, travel and showcasing the very best of South Africa.</p><p><br /></p>