After being on lockdown for the most part of the year and with the pandemic still very much around, most of us are relieved that we now have a bit of freedom to partake in leisurely activities of our choice. While international travel still comes with some restrictions, local travel or staycations are on a rise.
With most establishments observing and applying Covid-19: Health and Safety Protocols, Staycations and ShotLeft’s are a great way to rejuvenate, explore and to just change your environment. Many hotels and accommodations are offering great deals to help them bounce back, so do your research for a good deal.
My partner, son and I recently visited Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa in Simon’s Town for a mid-week break. Here are some of the things we enjoyed on a two nights stay at this luxurious escape by the seaside.
Location; Location: Situated at the charming and sleepy town of Simon’s Town. Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa operates on a B&B basis and is literally at the doorstep of beautiful Boulders Beach with a private entrance to the beach.
Boulders Beach is home to endangered African penguins. North-facing, the panoramic Indian Ocean views, especially from the breakfast area, are phenomenal.
Villa Living: Named after the great ships in history, the villas are homey and spacious. We stayed at the spacious Mary Rose Ship villa. Featuring a four poster bed, leading to the floral wallpapered bathroom with a bathtub. This was by far my favourite part of the room, the light here is gorgeous and the mirrors hanging on the wall add a contemporary feel. The tiled floor is heated which is great as the toilet is at the far end of the room, and even though the room has central heating, the evenings are a bit chilly.
Our villa was adjacent to the penguin room, which caters for children, with two twin beds and toys. This is a nice touch when traveling with children, my 2-year-old son entertained himself with the toys on offer, while we relaxed with a glass of wine.
The Most important Meal of the Day: Our day began with breakfast on the patio enjoying the Indian Ocean views. We had yogurt and muesli, a selection of fresh and delicious pastries and warm bread, as well as a hot breakfast of your choice of a full English breakfast etc. I enjoyed these leisurely breakfasts gazing into the sea and listening to the penguin calls. The staff was excellent , friendly and attentive.
What to do: When it comes to things to do, you are spoilt for choice. Some of your options are spending the day at the Boulders Beach, it has the clearest and beautiful waters as well as massive rocks to climb on for a better view or to just take pictures against.
*Take a short drive to the Simon’s Town harbour that is known for some of the best and fresh seafood in town. From oysters to fish and chips, they offer an array of cuisine. The harbour is always buzzing with fishermen and the views are calming.
*Should you want not to venture outside and opt to stay in your villa, the Tintswalo at Boulders Boutique Villa has an entertainment room where you can watch movies or play video games.
*Also, their heated rooftop pool is the perfect excuse not to leave the premises. With snacks and wine on offer, simply get comfortable on their lounge chairs, enjoy a bird’s eye view of the ocean and take a deep dive in the pool.
What to know
*Take a warm jacket, just in case it gets chilly in the evening. The weather can be unpredictable...Simon’s Town is in Cape Town afterall.
* Since the villa is a B&B, plan ahead for lunch at the harbour or in Muizenberg. Uber Eats is not available in the area and the Uber service is limited. Ask the staff at the villa to recommend a Taxi service, they are always willing to help.
*A massage in your room spa service is available but book in advance.
*The establishment is COVID-19 compliant, with sanitizers available and the guests are encouraged to practice social distancing.
*For more information visit : www.tintswalo.com
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