How many times have you said to yourself ‘I really need a break’ today? You’re probably not wrong! Holidays have been proven to be good for our physical and mental health.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
And according to Jonathan Alpert, psychotherapist, author of Be Fearless: Change Your Life in 28 Days, that’s exactly what we all need from a mid-year, post-winter break: to switch off, relax and unwind.
There’s no denying that international travel can be stressful. From visas to flight delays and luggage nightmares, it can feel a bit chaotic. It’s no wonder that many people are opting for staycations instead.
Some experts believe that short holidays spread throughout the year can be more beneficial to your mental well-being than a single long holiday. That’s right – local mini-breaks can give you the breathing space you need to get through the year.
So whether you’re stressed, craving time with family or looking for a shot of adventure, we’ve tracked down the best ways to maximise your mini-breaks.
Also Read: The 20 Best Spas in Johannesburg
1. Banish the boredom with an exciting city break
If you’re looking for a fun, vibe-filled break in the middle of Cape Town, Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel by BON Hotels in Long Street is the place for you. ‘If you want to be close to the action, be it restaurants, clubs, theatre or shopping, you can’t go wrong with a stay at The Grand Daddy. New to BON’s portfolio, this iconic city centre hotel is one of the most original, conveniently-located and proudly South African places to stay – especially if you want to experience the spirit and vibe of the Mother City,’ says BON Hotels CEO, Guy Stehlik.
From its vibrant, stylish and generously proportioned suites to its one-of-a-kind rooftop Airstream Trailer Park, this hotel ensures that it quickly becomes a stay you’ll never forget.
Picture: The Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel
2. Be spontaneous
If you think you’ll never be able to take a mini-break because of work commitments that pop up unexpectedly, you can still lean into the idea of getting away – on your terms. The Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa has developed the perfect elixir for those who are nervous to have things scheduled to the T.
Not only will you get the breather you need, but you’ll also exercise your ability to make spontaneous decisions. Spontaneous people tend to be more flexible and relaxed – that could be you! Erinvale offers you the opportunity to be delightfully impulsive. Book a weekend stay within seven days of your intended arrival and receive 45% off a premium room or suite.
Picture: Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa
3. Get outta town together
A family vacation is the perfect opportunity to bond with your loved ones, and create cherished memories while relaxing and rejuvenating. Stellenbosch offers an incredible diversity of family-friendly accommodations and experiences.
‘Families have even more reason to discover the warm heart of Stellenbosch and linger longer,’ says Visit Stellenbosch CEO Jeanneret Momberg. ‘Earn and spend Stellenbucks – a digital currency that you earn when booking two nights’ accommodation at one of our partners – and you can eat, stay and play for free.’
The ‘Stay Stellenbucks’ campaign will reward visitors with the Stellenbucks coupons to the value of 20% of their accommodation bill. Stellenbucks can be redeemed against meals, wine purchases, experiences and even return accomodation. How to spend them? For example, at Spier, you can book for two nights or more and get 15% off your room rate from 1 September until 15 December 2022. Switch off while your children have their own little adventures – and play their hearts out – at the Kids Clubhouse. Go to visitstellenbosch.org for more information.
Picture: Getaway Gallery
4. Invest in a little (or a lot) of pampering
There’s nothing better than staying at a hotel with an onsite spa and/or salon. Whether you want to relax with a massage or treat yourself to a mani/pedi, there’s no better way to unwind after a busy year (and let’s be honest, 2022 has been a lot!)
The Lurra Spa at Erinvale has a steam room and heated indoor pool, so you can enjoy a therapeutic treatment (or two) before grabbing a towel and heading to the pool. What’s on the spa’s menu? World-class products like TheraVine and TheraNaka- both locally made pampering products that will help you find your bliss.
Picture: Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa
5. Venture a little further out
The Western Cape awaits! Nestled in the foothills of the Overberg mountains in Swellendam, Bloomestate is the ideal base from which to experience the region’s highlights: whale-watching on the Indian Ocean, wine-sipping in the Robertson Wine Valley, wandering the trails of the Langeberg Mountain range, communing with the wildlife of the Marloth, The Bontebok National Park and De Hoop Nature Reserve.
Even better, Bloomestate, is a 6.5 acre eco-friendly refuge. Balancing stylish decor and contemporary architecture with open, natural spaces. Think beautiful rooms, walk-in showers, and a private terrace with calming garden views.
Added to that Bloomestate has a lake, a secluded jacuzzi, a saltwater pool and strategically placed hammocks – yes please! It is the perfect place to relax and regroup, ready to tackle the rest of 2022!
Picture: Bloomestate
ALSO READ: 4 amazing spots for sleeping under the stars in South Luangwa
