For many South Africans, the rising cost of living has made holidays feel out of reach. Food, fuel and accommodation costs all add up quickly, leaving families to believe that a proper break is no longer possible. But Shaun Lamont, Managing Director of First Group Hotels and Resorts, believes otherwise.
“You don’t need weeks away to create lasting memories,” says Lamont. “Time away with your loved ones is what matters. Whether it’s one night or two weeks, it’s the joy you create together. Those moments become the stories your children will carry with them for the rest of their lives,” he adds.
So how can families enjoy an affordable break that delivers magical, lasting memories? Lamont suggests a few practical ways that prove you don’t need endless time or money to make your break unforgettable:
1. A Mini Escape Can Feel Like a Week
Two nights away – Friday to Sunday – or even one night away from your routine can still give everyone that ‘holiday feeling’ and allow you to disconnect and recharge without breaking the budget.
2. Consider a Resort with Self-Catering Facilities
Restaurant meals for a family add up fast. Booking a unit with a kitchen lets you pack food from home. Not only does it cut costs, but it also turns mealtime into quality family time where everyone gets involved – from prepping salads for a braai to roasting marshmallows for dessert.
3. Choose Nearby Destinations
Fuel is a big factor in affordability. Choosing accommodation within two to three hours of home helps cut costs and gives you more time at your destination, not on the road. It also minimises the dreaded “Are we there yet?” chorus, making the trip itself more relaxed.
4. Look for Weekend Specials
Many resorts run promotional packages aimed at weekend travellers. Signing up for loyalty programmes such as First Loyalty or keeping an eye on seasonal deals can open the door to more affordable breaks. A little forward planning can go a long way, and people are often surprised at just how budget-friendly a mini escape can be.
5. Keep Entertainment Simple
You don’t need expensive outings to make the trip memorable. Before you leave, declare a tech timeout and pack a family ‘Mystery Box’ instead. Fill a box with silly surprises: glow sticks, a pack of cards, a favourite board game, a bat and ball set, or even matching T-shirts. Open it on arrival for an instant memory-making activity that can spark lots of laughter and the warmest memories.
Resorts also offer several free facilities you can enjoy apart from swimming pools – like tennis and squash courts, table tennis, adventure golf, children’s playgrounds and entertainment programmes.
Besides, it’s the little things – walking a nature trail and watching the sunset as a family or simply lying under the stars together – that often mean the most.
6. Share the Fun (and the Costs)
Travelling with extended family or friends and booking a larger unit often works out cheaper per person. Kids get extra playmates, and adults can enjoy some shared downtime and split the costs. It also creates a wonderful sense of community – big group meals, evening chats, and shared adventures all add to the holiday spirit.
First Group Hotels and Resorts offers family-friendly properties across South Africa, from coastal escapes to mountain and inland retreats. With flexible options, self-catering facilities and weekend-focused packages, they make it possible to enjoy quality family time without breaking the bank.
“Life is stressful, and weekends often pass in a blur of chores and errands,” notes Lamont. “Deciding to escape – even for 48 hours – gives families the chance to break away from their routine and reconnect. Your family won’t remember the frills or how many activities you squeezed in. What they’ll remember is the laughter, the fun, and the way you made them feel,” he concludes.
To find out more about First Group’s hotels and resorts across South Africa, please visit https://www.firstgroup-sa.co.za/
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