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A luxury staycation in Sandton

Mail & Guardian

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May 23, 2025

We work so hard, don't we? From early meetings to late-night hustles, school runs, deadlines and that never-ending inbox. Sometimes, all it takes is one look in the mirror, a deep sigh and the realisation — I need a break.

- Lesego Chepape

A luxury staycation in Sandton

Not the kind of break where you travel across provinces only to return more tired than when you left. No, I'm talking about the kind of break that soothes the soul.

A staycation.

Yes, with a decent pocket, it's possible to book yourself into a hotel or lodge, where your only responsibility is to rest, eat and be pampered.

Think of it like being at home, doing absolutely nothing, but elevated. There's no cooking, no dishes, no beds to make.

You're treated like the hardworking queen or king that you are. And that's exactly how I felt when NH Hotel in Sandton invited me for a weekend of relaxation at their luxurious five-star establishment.

As I arrived, the first thing that caught my eye was the staircase. Oh! That staircase. It instantly took me to the famous Titanic dinner scene, the one where Rose walks down in that unforgettable dress ... and the room holds its breath.

Music started playing in my head, the kind of cinematic moment only a grand staircase can trigger. I had to snap out of it, though, and head straight to reception to check in.

The process was seamless and soon after, I was shown to my room. They called it a standard room, but let me tell you, there was nothing standard about it. It was pure indulgence.

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