From Johannesburg to America: Taking Americans to Play Golf in South Africa-Ep 84 with Murray Collier
The Relocated South African | Emigration storiesPlay episode
Show notes
When Murray Collier left South Africa for the United States, the plan was simple: gain some international experience and eventually decide what came next.
Reality turned out to be very different.
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.
Today, Murray has combined his passion for golf with his love for South Africa by founding South Africa Golf Tours, introducing American golfers to the country's world-class golf courses, spectacular wildlife, incredible food and wine, and unforgettable hospitality.
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.
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.
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.
"I'm South African first... I get to stand with a foot on each continent."
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TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Introducing Murray Collier
01:08 – Growing up in Johannesburg and studying at Stellenbosch
02:30 – Moving to Chicago
05:15 – Eighteen months without finding a job
08:00 – Loneliness and adapting to life in America
10:30 – Chicago winters and moving to Connecticut
12:10 – Financial struggles and renting out their apartment
18:10 – The South African community in the US
21:20 – Why he started South Africa Golf Tours
24:00 – Selling South Africa to American travellers
27:10 – Creating luxury golf and safari experiences
35:30 – Leopard Creek, Rovos Rail and Gary Player
39:10 – Building relationships with American golf clubs
41:20 – Americans' biggest misconception about South Africa
43:10 – Seeing South Africa through American eyes
46:30 – Would he ever move back?
48:10 – Advice for South Africans considering the USA
Connect with Murray Collier
🌍 Website:
www.southafricagolftours.com
💼 LinkedIn: Murray Collier
📸 Instagram / X: @SouthAfricaGolfTours
Connect with The Relocated South African
🌍 Website
www.therelocatedsouthafrican.com
🎙️ Listen on Spotify and all major podcast platforms.
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.
