From a swish business hotel in Zambia to a wellness retreat in Joburg, we’ve got you covered when it comes to new accommodation spots
Mthembu Lodge, uMfolozi Big 5 Game Reserve
If you’re after big picture scenery, insta-worthy sunsets and a waterhole thick with buffalo, crocs and hippo, Mthembu Lodge, crouched on a bend of the White Umfolozi river, ticks all the boxes. Seven one-bedroom villas, two family villas and a world-class spa offer all the necessary comforts for a bush getaway. And you can always hit the state-of-the-art gym if you need to work off that starlit lapa dinner.
Added bonus: The uMfolozi Big 5 Game Reserve is a tract of tribal land on the southwestern border of the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park and has recently been incorporated into the reserve. It’s not all about game drives, high tea and afternoon snoozes here. This chunk of land is renown for being home to the Operation Rhino project that kicked off almost 70 years ago under the guidance of global conservationist, the late Dr Ian Player.
La Petite Ferme, Franschhoek, Western Cape
Ah bonne! A recent re-think has rendered this luxe boutique hotel 100% on trend when it comes to decor. Gone are the cottage reed ceilings, standard sized windows and gas fireplaces in the five roomy suites. In their place? La Petite Ferme now offers individually styled suites with crisp white ceilings, wood-burning stoves, generous windows and doors to maximise the jaw-dropping views. And while the hand-made patterned tiles in the bathrooms add texture to an otherwise sleek, modern narrative, you’re totally forgiven for overlooking this décor detail in favour of another glass of world-renowned wine while dangling your feet in your private, freshly overhauled splash pool.
Garden Court Kitwe, Zambia
Visiting the central city of Kitwe, Zambia for business in the near future? Anyone with a nose for comfortable, convenient accommodation has already checked in to the spanking new Garden Court Kitwe. Boasting six conference venues (the largest seats 240 delegates) and flanked by the Mukuba Mall and ECL Business Park, this newcomer is geared for corporates who appreciate expert levels of service. Added bonus? The Copper Club Restaurant, Bar & Terrace – the perfect spot to close a deal.
tsogosun.com/garden-court-kitwe
Oxford Healthcare Retreat, Melrose, Johannesburg
Whether you’ve been crunching too many deadlines, dealing with a personal trauma or simply need some proper R&R, this elegant retreat is just the ticket. From the minute you arrive at the spacious English-style country home, complete with rolling lawns, climbing roses, pool and, yes, ducks, it’s all about restoration and reinvigoration. Choose from packages that offer anything from nutritional advice to floatation pool therapy, yoga classes and consultations with a resident psychologist because the focus is entirely on your wellbeing. Tip: The craniosacral treatment is said to be transformative.
WRAP UP YOUR TROUBLES!
Using the Gautrain to get from Sandton to OR Tambo International Airport? While waiting for your train, make use of the bag wrapping service to protect your luggage from wear-and-tear and tampering.
Best of all, this service is totally mahala. Nice one, Gautrain.
WORDS Biddi Rorke
