“Recent research shows that South African travellers, many of whom are frequently readers of Getaway, are travelling more, both on the continent and abroad. Whatever their motivation for travelling, our intention is to provide them with well-crafted stories and practical information on great-value options to make their journey more enjoyable,” she explains.

She plans to broaden the pool of experienced journalists and professional photographers to ensure the best possible content. A renewed focus on conservation is also one of her objectives.

A seasoned journalist, travel writer and magazine editor, Schoeman took up the editorial position at the beginning of May.

Getaway’s publisher, Ian Dinan, said he was thrilled to have someone of Schoeman’s calibre, with her solid journalistic background, extensive knowledge of the travel industry and firm grasp of the advertising challenges, join the team.

“Sonya’s enthusiasm for the job and her vision to reach a burgeoning local travel market aligns perfectly with our own goals. I have no doubt she will have a huge impact on all aspects of the brand.”

Schoeman was most recently responsible for the launch of Pam Golding Properties’ bi-annual magazine, Imagine, in 2013. Prior to that she launched three very successful in-flight magazines: British Airways’ High Life South Africa and Horizons and Kulula’s Khuluma, the latter winning the Pica Award for Best New Launch in 2011.

Her career, which began as a journalist with the Natal Witness, has also seen her fill the roles of editor of The South African and deputy editor of Top Billing, as well as contribute to South Africa’s leading magazines in a freelance capacity over several years.

She has travelled extensively in Europe and the Middle and Far East.