Booking a holiday that suits the needs of the whole family can be challenging at times. Dad and mom want to relax, teens want to have fun and the little ones want to be entertained. Whatever type of holiday appeals to your family, from lazy days on the beach, boating and water sports at a dam or hiking and horse riding in the mountains, there are a number of resorts specifically geared towards families that are able to provide something for everyone without having to leave the resort, says Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts.
“Promising the best of both worlds, “one-stop” holidays offer the perfect combination of rest and recreation with the added benefit of knowing just about everything you need is on hand,” he adds and shares 6 reasons why resorts will appeal to the whole family:
1. No need to leave: Self-catering and forgot to bring something? Resorts generally have a convenience store onsite where you can pick up the basics or enjoy a meal at their on-site restaurant. Can’t leave your work behind? You’re bound to find a comfortable workspace with decent Wi-Fi to keep you connected for the duration of your stay.
2. Something for everyone: Say goodbye to whining children, bored teens and irritation as a parent. From mini golf to tennis, pools, gyms and more, most resorts have a range of facilities available to keep everyone busy. There are several First Group resorts that are specifically family and fun orientated and where, for example, you’ll find a spa for moms, childcare and entertainment designed for the kids, games rooms for the teens and courts (squash or tennis) for dad. La Cote d’Azur, on the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast, has a variety of themed evenings too, which are great for both young and old alike.
3. Entertainment: In the mood for some good old-fashioned bingo, some music or shows? La Montagne, in Ballito, is home to the Pumpkin Theatre and has recently joined forces with Musiek Unlimited to host live events featuring popular South African musicians. At Bushman’s Nek, you can indulge in some healthy competition with their famous music quiz.
4. Safe and secure: With cutting-edge technology and gated entrances and exits, resorts are designed to ensure your safety and security at all times. The peace of mind that comes from knowing you’re tucked away from the world and don’t have to worry about anything is priceless.
5. Itinerary-free: Turn off your alarm, take off your watch and throw away your list of “to-do’s”! Resort holidays are designed to make your stay as stress-free as possible. Whether it’s a day at the pool or on the dam (if you’re lucky enough to be at Qwantani resort on the banks of the Sterkfontein Dam), a family hike in the Drakensberg, or even a game of padel (if you’re staying at Magalies Park in the North West), there’s no rush or time-table. You can do it all at your own pace.
6. Pocket-friendly: Resort holidays often work out cheaper than the usual self-catering options available as you save on expenses such as spontaneous outings and the associated petrol consumption, entrance fees, meals on the go and more. Plus, most resorts offer an all-inclusive option, which means minimal expenditure once you arrive!
“When it comes to planning holidays, resorts present the perfect option for those wanting total relaxation so that they can focus on making magical, lasting memories with their family and friends,” says Shaun who is of the opinion that once you have stayed at a resort, it will become your family holiday of choice whatever your destination.
“You’ll get all the comfort, convenience, activities and entertainment to keep everyone happy while saving yourself time, money and a whole lot of stress beforehand,” he concludes.