6 Luxury Daycations to Experience this Summer
A daycation could be a short city break, a quick beach getaway, or an outdoor adventure in closer, more accessible destinations.
07/12/2023
After another long year, but one that is much
less restricted than we’ve all experienced these
past few years, it’s certainly time for us to
take a break, relax and unwind. The challenge is
that not only is that week-long vacation in
Mauritius or that luxury holiday in the Swiss
Alps out of reach, but for many of us so is a
holiday trip across the country.
This
year, many South African households are reeling
from the effects of the rising cost of living,
along with record-high inflation fuelled by high
costs of petrol, rising food prices and more. In
just a year, the interest rate climbed rapidly
from 7% to 10.5% in 2022, ending up at 11.75% in
late 2023. Meanwhile, consumer price inflation
rose to 5.4% in September this year while the
food inflation rate surged to a 14-year high in
March 2023.
This has put pressure on
everyone’s household budgets, leading to many
people cutting back on spending. But just
because you have to work around a tighter budget
doesn't mean that you have to put a damper on
the fun or postone travel plans. With a much-needed break
on the cards for all of us, it’s time to look at
having shorter, more experiential holiday
outings instead of saying bye-bye to vacation
dreams all together.
Enter the daycation,
also known as micro-cation or staycation. A
daycation could be a short city break, a quick
beach getaway, or an outdoor adventure in
closer, more accessible destinations.
These little minibreaks offer travellers an
escape from the constant connected buzz of
everyday life, offering much-needed respite.
Time away from the humdrum of daily routine,
even if short, can do a world of good, even if
it's just a change of scenery. In fact, the
benefits of taking shorter breaks include
increased productivity and creativity, as well
as reduced stress, improved sleep and emotional
well-being for a happier, healthier you.
Here are six rejuvenating one day
mini-vacation ideas to try this summer:
1. Pamper yourself with a spa day
Probably one of the best ways to take time
out and relax is to treat yourself to a full
body massage or spa day. Whether
you’re looking to leave with radiant skin with a
facial or salt scrub, get rid of any aches and
pains through a massage, or simply take some
time for quiet reflection, a spa day is a way
you can treat both your mind and your body.
Urban day spas in Johannesburg offer
travellers a sanctuary within the city, the
Cape’s breathtaking selection of spas offer
tranquillity in spaces from vineyards to garden
retreats, while Limpopo scenic landscape and
abundance of wildlife provide a unique spa
experience for any traveller.
2. Go out for a long brunch
While breakfast and
lunch is often just a meal, brunch is more of an
event and though it’s been around for some time,
brunch is experiencing a surge in popularity
among South Africans. Offering the perfect
setting to catch up with friends or even make
new ones, as well as a socially acceptable
excuse to do some day drinking with the iconic
brunch drink herself - the mimosa - travellers
can capture new memories over delicious food and
good company.
For anyone in the Cape Town
region this summer, Radisson Blu Hotel
Waterfront offers a
unique Dubai-style brunch at Tobago’s
Restaurant, Bar and Terrace. You can partake in bottomless
drinks, all-you-can-eat appetisers and dessert. With live
entertainment from resident DJ’s , it is a must
experience event.
3. Spend the day or night at a market
If you’re looking to sample some local cuisine and experience a vibrant atmosphere, then a flea or street market might be what you need. With a number of stalls that visitors can browse and purchase a range of goods such as artisanal gourmet foods and sweet treats, handcrafted beer, freshly baked goods, and organic artisinal produce accompanied by live music and a variety of entertainment on offer, South Africa’s growing market scene is the perfect place to spend a leisurely day (or evening in some cases).
4. Dip a toe into the great outdoors
There can be nothing better or more soothing than taking a mini travel experience that is good for body, mind and soul. Enjoy the natural beauty of South Africa by participating in adventurous activities such as mountain biking and climbing or more relaxing activities like hiking, stargazing or taking a wildlife tour.
5. Get creative and try something new
A vacation is really just the perfect time to get a little bit out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve never tried before. This summer, take advantage of the sun, get out into the world, and try some new activities or learn a new skill like pottery, painting, rug tufting, leatherworking or join a cooking class.
6. Hit the road with no plans
One exciting way to try something
completely new is to simply pack up your car,
choose a direction to go in, and go! Don’t make
plans, simply go with the flow and see where the
road takes you. You might end up finding a whole
new adventure if you’re brave enough!