In a world where travel has become more challenging, it may be time to rediscover the beauty of your own city. “Be a tourist in your hometown, even go as far as creating a staycation itinerary, plan your staycation with the same enthusiasm you would a vacation abroad,” says Bradd Bendall, Head of Sales at BetterBond.
Bradd suggests making a list of attractions, restaurants, and activities you want to experience during your time off. “Check out local event calendars for special festivals or exhibitions that might be happening.” Affirming that this ensures that your staycation feels like a real getaway. “Invite family and friends along and get them equally excited,” he adds.
Are you in Cape Town?
Foreigners from all over the world travel to Cape Town to experience its spectacular wine regions. With family-friendly options like Boschendal there is no limit to who you can bring along. While you savour world class wines, the kids can enjoy the Tree House Playground, supervised holiday programmes and so much more.
Beyond the wines, some alternatives include Bugz Play Park, perfect for families too, that offers a variety of activities, rides, water slides and mini golf that will keep the kids entertained for hours.
Not taking the kids?
There are other options, like De Grendel Wine Farm, known for its breath-taking views and award-winning wines. Enjoy a wine tasting on their terrace while gazing at Table Mountain and taking a minute to disconnect from reality.
Staycationing in Durban?
Your staycation in Durban should undoubtedly include uShaka Marine World a place where the diverse cultures of South Africa meet, it is situated in a prime location on Durban’s Golden Mile. This is the ultimate holiday one-stop destination, with something for everyone, from the little ones up to the adults. Make sure to plan ahead to fit the show, feed and activity times into your day.
Are you in Johannesburg?
The options in Johannesburg are abundent, you can visit the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve, where you can take a game drive, watch wild life feeds and visit The Bothong Wondercave, the third largest chamber in South Africa, they also have a pool and picnic area for you to relax after your adventure.
Looking for ‘more than a restaurant?
Check out Joy Jozi, as they put it, it’s “more than a restaurant for kids aged 0-100”. Take walks in their vegetable garden, burn off the calories from lunch on their action court or if you are taking kids, let them experience “the space for kids to thrive offline”
Need to escape the city’s hustle and bustle?
Immerse yourself in art and nature at Nirox Sculpture Park. Stroll through beautifully landscaped gardens and admire contemporary sculptures from local and international artists. If you love art and music, keep an eye on their social media pages for live concerts in the park coming up during your staycation dates.
“Even on vacation, we want to have a day that doesn’t involve much. Include that sort of day on your staycation itinerary by enjoying your home,” says Bendall, “transform your home into a peaceful retreat by decluttering and organising your space. Play soothing music, light scented candles and add cosy blankets and pillows to your living areas.” Sounds like the perfect off day to unwind and destress.
You may finally have the time to experiment with new recipes or preparing your favourite dishes. The ones you don’t have time for but always wish you had. You can set up a mini at-home restaurant experience with a beautifully set table.
Then of course the ol’ faithful movie night. Get friends over, or just with your family or friends, go all out for your movie night by creating a movie-watching area with blankets, pillows and of course lots of snacks!
