This story began in 1952...
When a beautiful young woman called Bea caught the eye of a distinguished young hotelier named Stanley, who was known for wearing a red carnation in his lapel. They shared their first dinner together at the famous Oyster Box Hotel, where Bea tried an oyster for the first time, and spat it out at the table. This must have left a lasting impression on Stanley, as they married in 1954 and later started Red Carnation Hotels. In 2006, Bea and Stanley purchased The Oyster Box and together they continued to build on the generous hospitality, service and values for which the Oyster Box was renowned for, and today the hotel is recognised as the very best hotel in Africa.