Skip the vacation and take a staycation

L ast week I packed my bags and went on my first ever staycation in the city.

The definition of a staycation is: booking yourself into a hotel or resort in the city, that doesn’t entail driving too far but getting the feeling like you’re on holiday.

My hotel of choice was the Park Inn by Radisson in the Sandton district. I picked my hotel by location because I’m a shopper. Wherever I stay has to have a form of retail therapy nearby. This hotel was located in the perfect spot. I’ve heard that Sandton City is the richest square mile in Africa … and it’s a shopper’s paradise.

The hotel is a lovely, quiet hotel that’s mostly occupied by business tourists and just a walk away from key points in the district.

I got a corner room that was spacious with an amazing view of the Sandton skyscrapers and I was able to go down to the bar for a few drinks with friends, in a social area, where many of the guests gathered to mingle and learn who was from where and who was flying where.

I made a few friends from other countries and got some new Instagram followers who are travellers.

The next morning was slightly chilly but after my morning cardio session, I took a short dip in the pool. And enjoyed the Wi-Fi which connected instantly as I walked into my room. I spent a few days doing nothing and loved it.

So how does one find the perfect place to check into for a staycation?

Look for a hotel that has everything you need. On my wish list is always a gym, a pool, restaurant, a good breakfast, safe parking and Wi-Fi that doesn’t expire. Enquire about this when you make your booking.

The Park Inn offered all of this for me, in a safe area near two major malls that I could walk to.

This allowed me the option of eating at the hotel restaurant or catching an Uber to Sandton City and having dinner there. The service levels were pleasant and the hotel staff did their best to ensure I felt at home. I enjoyed my short stay away from home, even if it was just 20 mins drive away.

A staycation is also a great idea for a couple who want to rekindle the spark in their relationship or have a second honeymoon.

We all suffer from large amounts of stress and a few nights in a hotel where you don’t have to worry about washing dishes, cooking or even making the bed are worth it.

I’d also recommend the experience for a girls’ or boys’ weekend – more so if you have kids – because that way you aren’t too far from home in case of an emergency. Leave the kids at home with your spouse and go have some exciting times with your friends.

The idea for a group “getaway” would be to book spa sessions, have dinner and cocktails and be able to go upstairs into your rooms without having to worry about driving. Hotels also offer conference rooms so if any business needs to be done you can also book that space.

A hotel bedroom. Picture Thinkstock

Staycations are also great for anyone who’s planning on proposing but doesn’t have a budget to book hot-air balloons or boat trips far away from the city. Most hotels have a romantic package for couples that one can request.

There’s so much that a staycation can offer you, it just depends on your needs. Mine were basic, I just wanted to relax and experience a different environment.

Prices at the Park Inn vary but at R870 a booking one can have a comfortable night and enjoy breakfast in the city. This price, for the area, is reasonable.

For more information visit Radisson Hotels

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