Johannesburg staycation or Cape Town vacation?
Whether you decide to be a tourist in your own city or wake up to Table Mountain views, there is lots to see and do.
With the Easter holidays around the corner and families planning their December vacations months in advance, now is the time to get serious about your holiday plans.
Here's how to decide whether your next trip should be a staycation or vacation.
Johannesburg Staycation
When people are planning their next big vacation, they rarely think about something closer to home.
As exciting as hopping onto a plane and flying to a new destination sounds, you can have just as much fun being a tourist in your own city, and at a third or half the price.
What is a staycation? A staycation is a vacation that you take close to home. It's a great way to save money while exploring new places in your own backyard. Many people often overlook the beauty in their own cities, longing for escapes to far-off lands.
The great thing about a staycation is not only that you avoid the usual hassles that come with travelling long distances, but also that it is much more affordable.
More affordable doesn't mean boring. There are dozens of hidden gems in Johannesburg and scores of nearby attractions that will make you feel like a tourist.
Where to stay
Hoëveld House (Sandton)
"The stylish boutique hotel and guesthouse is situated on one of the area’s most iconic properties where statuesque, ancient trees stand sentinel over the magnificent gardens and stately mansion."
Thaba Eco Hotel (Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve)
"Our luxurious hotel is nestled in the majestic Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve area, providing stunning views of nature at its finest."
The Peech Hotel (Melrose)
"Located in Melrose, a chic suburb of Johannesburg, The Peech is a true boutique hotel set in lush gardens."
Burkleigh House (Randburg)
"Conveniently and centrally located in the leafy suburb of Ferndale in Randburg, Burkleigh House Guesthouse offers both business and leisure travellers luxury 4-star bed and breakfast accommodation at its finest."
Food Hotspots
Ikara (Dowergle)
"Ikara offers a focused, ingredient-led menu shaped by the Mediterranean way of eating."
Greek Menu
Location: The Verge Shopping Centre, 100 Linksfield Rd, Dowerglen
Hugh’s Jazz Club (Braamfontein)
"Here, the energy of Braamfontein meets the soul of Hugh Masekela. It is where lineage becomes present tense; where the sound of a horn that once carried through struggle and celebration finds new voice."
Menu
Location: Level 13, 10 De Beer Street, Braamfontein,
Die Pienk Kerk (Melville)
"Melville’s beloved pink church is about to turn a new leaf as Joburg’s first church-turned-café, with food, art and a community as colourful as its walls."
Location: 24 Chatou Rd, Richmond, Johannesburg
Places to See
- Westcliff Stairs
- Honeydew Mazes
- Lindfield House Museum
- Northwards House Tour
- Melville Koppies Nature Reserve
- Nexus Hub
- The Collectors Treasury
Verdict: Staycations are great for couples who want to step up their 'date night game', solo travellers who are up for an adventure or families who rarely explore their surroundings.
Cape Town vacation
A Cape Town vacation is worth every penny, especially if you also explore the places tourists don't always visit.
Beach, mountain, food and good company is all you need for an amazing Cape Town vacation.
Boutique Hotels
Camissa House
"Named after the sweet waters that have trickled through the property for centuries, Camissa House is more than just a boutique hotel, it's a place defined by peace, where delight abounds and senses become reawakened."
Botany House Boutique Retreat
"With only five exquisitely designed rooms, our intimate haven invites you to escape the bustle of the city and unwind in the peaceful serenity of our mid-century modern-inspired interiors and lush surroundings."
Carmichael House Boutique Hotel
"This exquisite home has been fully renovated in 2020 and reflects the perfect balance between the charm of the 'Heritage' and the comfort and luxury of the 'Modern'."
Hedge House Guest House
"Hedge House was established in 2001, growing from a three-bedroom home to ten bedrooms. Five of them are family rooms and five are en-suite guest rooms."
Food Hotspots
"Vegan Streetfood is run as a small, bespoke, family owned business — but with huge, grand, monstrous ambitions."
Menu
Location:
Pakwathu Braai Restaurant
"We offer foods and culinary practices of Malawi and our meals include Nsima and Ndiwo."
Menu
Location: 1 Strand Street, Woodstock
Vagabond Kitchens
"Like with a well crafted dish, we are the hand selected ingredients that brings the symphony of flavours to life."
Location: Kloof Street
Places to see
- Noordhoek Farm Village
- Kasteelspoort
- Silvermine Nature Reserve
- Llandudno Beach
- Labia Theatre
- Striped Horse
- Slangkop Lighthouse
Verdict: Cape Town is great for family vacations and people who love luxury accommodation with amazing views.
Listen to Jacaranda FM:
- 94.2
- Jacaranda FM App
- http://jacarandafm.com
- DStv 858/ OpenView 602
Follow us on social media:
Image credit: iStock