Last-minute Christmas gift guide (that you can purchase from the comfort of your home)
Why experiences make for the perfect last-minute Christmas gift
Things can get a little awkward when you realise that you forgot to buy a Christmas gift for your loved ones. But don’t be too hard on yourself, we’ve all been there. Despite the best laid plans, Christmas always manages to appear out of nowhere and surprise us. Between all the shopping, cooking, baking, wrapping, and prepping for the big day, something is bound to fall through the cracks. The good news is that you’ve realised before it’s too late, and there is still plenty of time to muster up a meaningful gift.
Let’s face it— figuring out what to gift someone can be quite challenging. Even more so when you only have a matter of days to pull something together. While you could grab a holiday card and stuff it with cash, the best gifts are thoughtful ones. That’s why the gift of experiences is an amazing idea as experiences are meaningful, surprising, and often, much more impactful. And what bigger impact can you make when you give the gift of experiencing the Kruger National Park? Kruger National Park, and its surrounds, boast some of South Africa, and the world’s most breathtaking natural wonders. From the iconic wildlife, such as the Big Five, to majestic rivers and waterfalls, and vast forest canopies to unique outdoor experiences.
Below is a last-minute Christmas gift guide to suit any budget and what’s even better is that you don’t have to leave the comfort of your home.
A safari escape
Kruger Gate Hotel offers a range of elegant accommodation, from deluxe to luxury rooms, comprising affordable family self-catering chalets suites to upmarket suites. With African-inspired design and furnishings, all rooms come standard with en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning, free wi-fi and in-room private dining as well as beautiful views of the surrounding natural gardens and bushveld.
“Gifting your loved ones a memorable experience is easier than one may think,” shares Watson. “Simply visit our website, browse through our accommodation options and pop us an email to purchase a voucher for a stay that your loved ones are sure to remember,” she adds.
If booking a vacation is not within your budget, not to worry there are a host of other spoils for you to treat your loved ones to, including:
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A game drive - Whilst guests staying at Kruger Gate Hotel can enjoy a guided game drive, those popping into the area for the day should consider doing a self-drive into the Kruger National Park as this is a great, cost effective way to experience the best that Park has to offer without having to commit to the full cost of booking a vacation. After your safari adventure, pop into Kruger Gate Hotel for lunch at its stylish Pool Bar and Viewing Deck, which boasts uninterrupted views into the Kruger National Park and provides a peaceful respite after your safari travels.
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A spa treatment under the serene savannah skies - There is perhaps no greater spoil than a spa treatment and Kruger Gate Hotel has a range of African- inspired treatments that are good for your body, mind and soul and are sure to delight everyone from your husband to your mom and even your little ones. The spa facilities, which overlook the Sabie River, are sure to leave you feeling deeply relaxed and rejuvenated.
“Our spa facilities include a mani and pedi lounge, a steam room, changing rooms, hot and cold showers, a refreshment station serving herbal teas, juice and water, and a boutique retail space featuring luxury African beauty products, “ Watson shares. “You will find yourself in the caring and capable hands of our trained beauty and massage therapists who specialise in African-inspired treatments,” she adds.
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An African dining experience - “There is something pretty extraordinary about being able to dine under a starry African sky,” notes Watson. “At Kruger Gate Hotel, we have a number of special dining occasions planned for this season including a Christmas dinner and New Year’s Eve dinner for in-house guests. Those in the area wanting to enjoy a Christmas meal with us can join us for a delicious lunch,” she concludes.
But if a safari experience isn’t what you’re looking for, you could also consider the below last-minute gifts:
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The gift of music - As we all know, music has the ability to transport you to your favourite destinations - making it a thoughtful and timeless gift. Visit eGifts24 and browse through a variety of Spotify gift card options, select one that fits your budget and have it digitally delivered to your loved one just in time for Christmas.
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Sightseeing in the city - Both Cape Town and Joburg have a City Sightseeing hop-on, hop-off, open-top Red Bus Tour, where your loved one will receive the gift of seeing all that the city has to offer. If you want to give a more relaxed city experience, Radisson hotels offer great daycation experiences. With a variety of onsite activities for you to enjoy without checking in, you can treat your loved ones to a leisurely breakfast followed by a luxurious spa treatment, while they take in breathtaking views of the city.
