When I arrived, I was directed to park in the designated parking spaces at the side of the property. As a result, I was able to get to my room from the rear of the building rather than going through the main entrance.
It allowed me to have a look at some of the amenities on offer, like the swimming pool, which beckoned like a siren on a rock. But I was not that easily fooled, and I gave it a wide berth, given how cold the air temperature was.
It turned out that the room on the right, with the light on, was to be my accommodation for the duration of my stay, but at this point, I was unaware of that fact.
My welcome drink was waiting for me on a table in the space that served as both a reception area and part of the lounge.
Did you know?
The concept of serving welcome drinks has deep historical roots, with origins tied to hospitality and social customs across various cultures. Historically, drinks like wine, mead, or spiced beverages were offered to guests upon arrival as a gesture of welcome and respect. The modern tradition of specific welcome drinks, especially cocktails, became more prominent with the rise of cocktail culture in the 20th century.
With easy access between the various public spaces and high ceilings, the first impression of this property needs to be seen to be believed.
A welcoming space, with a signature scent and friendly staff, immediately makes new arrivals feel that they have arrived back home, rather than at a guesthouse.
There is a constant supply of hot beverages and baked goods available to those who require them.
The coffee machine is one of the most user-friendly I have seen, and the cappuccino it produced was tasty.
Don’t be fooled by the sign that says BAR; this perspective is from the dining room looking towards the kitchen.
From the inside out.
Aside from all the other seating areas, there is this formal(?) lounge where guests can mingle and exchange stories.
My accommodation…
Luckily, the mosquitoes don’t seem to be around during winter, hence me not having to use the net over the bed.
There were three parts to my room.
There was the bedroom, as seen above, with a sliding door that led directly to the parking, outdoor entertainment area, and the swimming pool.
I could also access the boma and the garden without going through the indoor public spaces.
This large dressing room separated the bedroom from the bathroom and had more cupboard space than I required for my 2-night stay.
Unlike my wife, who likes to unpack the minute we get to our accommodation, I tend to live out of my suitcase with the exception of my toiletries, which I do unpack.
And at the far end of the accommodation, a full bathroom that had both a bath and a shower. As well as a toilet and twin basin vanity.
The days of small bars of soap are long gone, and most of the establishments I visit have these on offer.
Given that I found this brand in almost every establishment that I stayed at on this trip, their sales team are working hard to create brand awareness.
Another view of the rear garden.
This staircase was just outside the door to my room. I was told that it led to more rooms upstairs, and I hope to put that statement to the test when I am next in Hoedspruit.
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