2023 may be creeping to a close, but it’s not over yet. There’s still time to pack in a local adventure if you’re feeling like you’ve missed your travel chances. Where did you want to go at the start of the year? What did you really want to see or do? Don’t leave it until […]
Affordable packages for teams in every corner of the country Year-end is fast approaching, and if you’re yet to lock in plans for your year-end team build or function, look no further than Dream Hotels & Resorts. With a collection of well-equipped properties dotted across the country, we’re readily available to host all types of […]
Here in South Africa, we now have 12 official languages, but one thing always continues to unite us, and that’s a braai. Regardless of your background, the shared tradition of cooking food on the fire is something all South Africans share. Originally known as Shaka Day but fondly referred to as National Braai Day, Heritage […]
A girls’ getaway is always something to look forward to, whether you’re old friends, sisters or the ultimate multigen trio of gran, mom and daughter. If you love the idea of putting together a girls’ trip, there’s no better time than Women’s Day on 9th August. Not only is it a holiday, but a special […]
Winter holiday tips to help you leave the couch There’s no shortage of holiday boltholes to cosy up in this winter. But if roaring hearths and hot chocolate isn’t enough to get you out the door, lower rates, fewer crowds, and last-minute availability might. Not sure where to go? Here are our top recommendations and […]
Take a deep breath. Inhale the crisp mountain air and let go of the stresses of city life at Piekenierskloof Mountain Resort. We warmly welcome you to a serene world of natural beauty located in the heart of South Africa’s Citrusdal region. Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey as we introduce you to […]
Nestled within a lush forest canopy and surrounded by golden beaches lies Zimbali Lodge, the place you’ll find when following the sun. The name “Zimbali”, meaning “valley of flowers,” in isiZulu, aptly depicts the stunning location of this Lodge. For nature-lovers and sun-seekers alike, here you’ll find a tranquil retreat when seeking solace, a chance […]
Look out! Look out! Jack Frost is about! Yes, winter is just about here, but that doesn’t mean you must stay housebound as the temperatures drop. Here at Dream Hotels & Resorts, we call it the secret season because there are so many underrated perks to travelling during this time of year. There are fewer […]
Little Switzerland Resort is well known for its otherworldly charm, a place where you can forget yourself and rediscover the magic of getting lost in an adventure. Our rich history dates back to the early 1900s when it was established as a tranquil retreat for travellers seeking solace in the heart of the mountains. Today, […]
With the Greater Pilanesberg area as its breathtaking backdrop, Finfoot Lake Reserve awaits you – a haven for nature and wildlife enthusiasts. Finfoot is a magnificent bush holiday destination conveniently located just two hours away from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Its proximity to larger cities makes it an excellent getaway spot, only a leisurely drive away […]
Winter may be on its way, but it’s always hot somewhere in South Africa. So, if you’re a sun worshipper dreading the cold, you’ll still find plenty of places to revel in its warmth. But if all you want is to layer up and chuck a few logs on the fire, there’s no shortage of […]
Whether you celebrate Easter or simply enjoy the long weekend that comes with it, there’s one common theme connected to this local holiday – and that’s family. With Good Friday on April 7th and Family Day on Monday the 10th, there’s no better time to whisk the whole brood away on a local adventure. Still […]
Here in South Africa, a beach, river, or lake is often the main highlight of any local holiday. And as things heat up during the warmer months, there’s no better place to be than close to the water. But where to go? With the summer season looming, here are our top watery wonders worth exploring […]
We’re a starry-eyed bunch here at Dream Hotels & Resorts, and with Valentine’s Day fast approaching, we’re looking forward to welcoming couples through our doors. While chocolates and flowers are always appreciated, chances are, the ‘thing’ your partner most desires this Valentine’s Day, is spending quality time with you somewhere new. But where to whisk […]
If you’re someone who loves to plan ahead when it comes to your holidays, you’re in luck. We’ve done all the travel research, so you don’t have to. Ready to kick-start your 2023 travel planning right now? Here’s exactly where to go, and what to do before everyone else beats you to it. Segway safari […]
While preparing a Christmas meal for family and friends can be wonderfully rewarding, the thought of all that effort (and cleaning up!) is also overwhelming. Fortunately, our on-site restaurants have created special menus that allow you to feast without the fuss – then head back to a tidy home. From a lavish luncheon in the […]
There’s no better way to celebrate year-end than a December getaway. For many of us, it’s the only opportunity we have to slow down and catch our breath. Ready to make it count? Take our advice and book now – while there’s still availability and early bird deals on the go. It’ll make all the […]
Whether you celebrate September 24th as Heritage Day, Shaka Day or National Braai Day, it offers us an opportunity to embrace our country’s rich culture and beauty. It’s also a day for us to do what we locals do best – braai. Since South Africans also love a good getaway (and can braai just about […]
Every year between August and October, South Africa’s West Coast undergoes a magical transformation. Within a matter of weeks, the landscape explodes with colour as new flowers burst from the ground. This is wildflower season — an annual event marking the build-up to spring, when migrant birds arrive from up north, tiny insects and reptiles […]
If you’re longing to dip your toes in the ocean during your next holiday, make sure it’s on a beach along the KwaZulu-Natal South Coast. It’s one of the few places you can don your slops and flop down in the sun during the height of winter. However, the main highlight here (sometime from June) […]
The month of June longs reigns as International Pride Month, and if you’re still looking for ways to celebrate, why not opt for a local getaway? From remote reserves to relaxing resorts, South Africa is filled to the brim with a stellar selection of ‘gaycation’ destinations. So, if you’re ready to pack your bags and […]
It’s winter. You’re fumbling around still wrapped in your duvet, desperately clutching your third cup of coffee. You look out the window, and things don’t look any better. While this might be a slight exaggeration of winter in South Africa, it’s always good to be reminded that the sun is always out in full force […]
Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or part of an active family, you’ll find no shortage of adventures to conquer in South Africa. But even if you’re not quite ‘outdoorsy type,’ there are still plenty of ways to experience nature in your own time and at your own pace. Take slackpacking, for example. This brilliant concept […]
After being locked down for so long, many of us have remained separated from loved ones near and far. We’ve skipped out on holidays, missed life milestones and moments that have been both positive and painful. But as the world slowly begins re-open this year, we’ve decided that home and heart is our great motivator […]
No matter where you’re dreaming of heading this year, one thing’s for sure: the appetite for local travel—and eagerness to get back on the road—hasn’t waned one bit. In an era where tourism is part of the global language, we’re looking forward to welcoming guests and helping them make good on those holiday dreams they’ve […]
It’s no secret that we love the ocean here at Dream Hotels & Resorts. We also appreciate everything that comes with it: the salty air, the hurried whispers of crashing waves, and plenty of warm silky sand to wiggle our toes in. As most South Africans close up shop for the festive season and the […]
KwaZulu-Natal’s sunny South Coast is undoubtedly one of the most sought-after holiday destinations in the country. However, up until now, super-saver package deals may have been in short supply. Luckily for sun-seekers who are in search of a bargain, our ever popular Blue Marlin Hotel has stepped up as the South Coast’s number one choice […]
Why stay bundled up indoors when you can travel somewhere exciting and make your winter trip infinitely more enjoyable this year? Head towards KZN for milder temperatures and refreshing ocean air, treat yourself to wine tasting and 5-star gourmet cuisine in Franschhoek, or make your way to the Drakensberg to admire the stunning snow-dusted mountains […]
If you’re dreaming of a far-off escape, away from the same-old scenery you’ve seen for the last few months, don’t despair if you’re not able to holiday overseas quite yet. It’s not for nothing that South Africa is famed the world over for our diversity. Our proud rainbow nation extends beyond just our diversity of […]
Dream Hotels & Resorts encourages South Africans to venture beyond the stoep With domestic travel set to be the focus for holidaymakers in 2021, Dream Hotels & Resorts (DHR) is encouraging South Africans to re-discover the country’s finest hidden gems and hotspots. “Hyperlocal, closer to home, and flexible travel will be the order of the […]
You may remember our post-lockdown, road trip itinerary. Fortunately, with the recent regulations allowing accommodation for leisure travel within provincial borders, there’s no better time to escape the house, dust off your tekkies and break away from routine and responsibilities. Discover that long-awaited escapism we’ve all been craving. As we once again, step outside and […]
Given our current lockdown predicament, you’d think that we’d be at a loss when struck by that yearning for outside-world adventures. And while, in some ways, that may be true, FORTUNATELY, we are approaching that time of the year, where despite lockdown, an opportunity for escapism has emerged. One that cannot be confined, nor disturbed, […]
Often referred to as “Paradise Country”, few regions in the world can match the sheer beauty of the Mpumalanga Province. Over the past three months of lockdown, nature-lovers across the country have been yearning to visit this corner of the county, especially as it features the always-iconic Kruger National Park. Home of the Big 5 […]
Here are a few of our favourite small towns and accommodation spots we’re adding to the post-lockdown, road trip itinerary… There are few things more exciting than discovering a delightful, previously unknown (to you) dorpie tucked away in a remote corner of the countryside. With level three restrictions in place and having just launched our […]
Here’s where we recommend you go once travel returns to the ‘Garden Province’ From the midlands to the mountains, the bushveld to the beaches, KwaZulu-Natal is very much a world within a province. It’s a domestic destination at the top of our #lockdownlist this week and one we’re keeping a firm eye on for when […]
Here’s what’s on our ultimate travel #lockdownlist… With the general view that regional travel will be the first to slowly come back once restrictions ease (albeit with precautions), the reality of a local holiday may not be too far from reach… But until that happens, we’ve been hard at work creating the ultimate local #lockdownlist, […]
For over 100 years, the Kruger National Park has been a highlight for families, wildlife enthusiasts and birders. The Kruger offers that quintessential bush experience – the thrill of seeing Africa’s wildlife in their natural environment. In the Kruger, wild animals roam freely in a protected area that could rival the size of several whole […]
Boutique hotels, business lodges, overnighting near the airport, family friendly or couples only, choosing the right hotel can be overwhelming, especially when last-minute promotions, deals for locals and loyalty programmes are at play. There are, however, a few fail-safe suggestions to simplify the booking process. Brand trust “If you have stayed in a hotel that […]
Taking a vacation should never be a “maybe”, it’s one of life’s necessities – so choosing a destination should be like escaping to your very own piece of paradise. Whether its relaxing in luxurious surroundings, exploring new adventures or returning to favourite retreats – making the discerning vacation choice means living life the way it’s […]
Listen up foodies! Here is an unforgettable addition to your 2018 #SAcketlist to tickle your taste buds, whether you’ve already sampled the delicate bubbles of Franschhoek’s Cap Classique and creamy chocolate, or not. One of the oldest and certainly most beautiful towns in South Africa, Franschhoek’s picturesque vineyard-clad landscape was once the haunt of vast […]
As I approached the rustic hippo hide a sense of pure tranquillity over took my body. As I entered the hide it was as if I had entered a new world, completely untouched by man. The hide consisted merely of wooden slats that has been nailed together, yet this simple structure emanated an aura like […]
From the early days of the Stone Age and Iron Age – to the modern age where it literally takes a stampeding herd of antelope to get our teenagers to look up from their smartphones, the Kruger National Park has played host to Homo Sapiens (that’s us). It is a land rich in history, secrets, […]
The secret to sanity is going on safari! It’s springtime in Southern Africa and, with it, the usual feelings of overwhelmed hysteria as our nation’s city slickers realise the end is nigh for the year that is 2017. With three months to go before the final bells toll for what can only be described as […]
Many of you may be undertaking the long-haul this holiday season, but that doesn’t mean your journey need be a long bore! Road trips can be very tiring and boring, especially for young children. Never fear, however, because we have you covered! Take a look at our hacks for surviving the long and daunting drive […]
FALSE! In fact, the nests of the Pale-crowned Cisticola are typically placed in a thick clump of grass very near ground level. The nest is a vertically-positioned oval built of live grass bound with spider web, lined with soft plant down. Did You Know? Like the other short-tailed cisticolas, the pale-crowned is difficult to […]
This week we’re hitting the beach! So, grab your sunglasses and lather on that lotion as we take a dive into 5 sizzling hacks guaranteed to make the most of your day in the sun! Give a beach towel pocketsWant somewhere convenient to store your book and sunglasses? Sew some pockets onto your towel (using […]
So, you’ve packed your bags, you’ve made the journey, booked into your gorgeous accommodation and now it’s time to enjoy your holiday! Follow these simple hotel hacks to make your stay the best it can be: Peace of mind! Keep your belongings safe in your room by leaving the “Do Not Disturb” sign on your […]
TRUE! In birding terms, a lifer is a South African species of bird that birders make special trips to see in small areas where they are regarded as being locally common. They are known as “lifers” because you are most likely to only see this bird once in a lifetime! Did You Know? The […]
TRUE! The male Pink-throated Twinspot is notable for the colourful spray of pink plumage that adorns their neck and breast. Both male and female Twinspots sport distinct spotted plumage below the breast, however the female has brown plumage across the breast and neck instead of pink. Did You Know? The Pink-throated Twinsport is not […]
TRUE! The African Broadbill exclusively eats invertebrates, foraging on the ground, in trees and occasionally in flight. The following food items have been recorded in its diet: Insects Coleoptera (beetles) Orthoptera (grasshoppers) Hemiptera (bugs, scale insects) caterpillars (larval stages of Lepidoptera) Spiders Did You Know? The African Broadbill is locally common although difficult to […]
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