Forget skydiving over canyons, sailing through the Greek Islands by yacht, trekking Ugandan gorillas, or climbing Mount Kilimanjaro. This year, why not take a different approach to your holiday? The goal is not to do everything, but to do less and enjoy more.
We live in an age where we encourage big dreams and even bigger bucket lists. We saw bungees jumping off the bridge, cage diving with sharks, and the northern lights of Iceland…! “We are constantly reminding us that we are 'living our best lives' and sometimes forgetting that we see satisfaction in small joys,” says Shaun Lamont, managing director of First Group Hotels and Resorts. “Not every holiday is carving items from another bucket list. Sometimes you need to do the exact opposite. Slowly and for a while, abandoning the must-see and must-see person, rediscovering the calm joys outside of time.”
Lamont shares five small indulgences he enjoys.
1. Fireplace stop
There is a special kind of pause that occurs when you are away during the winter. The crackling sounds of the fireplace, the weight of the warm blanket, the sound of losing yourself in a good book that steamed hot chocolate and meant reading for age. Guilt-free permission to drift away for a while. The side of the fireplace is not ambitious, but perfect.
2. Endless breakfast
Forget about rushing to your next activity. Request tables at the windows or pool, and even allow breakfast for brunch or even lunch if necessary. Order more coffee. Please read the newspaper. Enjoy our partner company. No discussion. A relaxing morning together could be one of the highlights of your trip.
3. I walk long and slowly
There are no record-breaking hikes here. Just wandering. There is. The beach at dawn barefoot in the water. You really notice how the lights go down and pick up a shell in your bag that you forget. Nature trail at dusk. Stumble on wandering side streets and unexpected jewels – a small bookstore, a street musician, a local bakery that smells warm bread wafting through the door. Sometimes the best souvenirs are things you can't pack.
4. Sleep and afternoon nap
Forget the alarm. The morning sun wakes you up – or enjoy the luxury of being late in bed for the morning… just because you can. Of course, wherever you fantasize, don't forget the joy of a luxurious afternoon Siesta. On the sofa, hammocks under shaded trees, pool or beach loungers. It's not ambitious, but it's a rest that will benefit you after you get home.
5. I haven't done anything
The ultimate un-bucket-list item? Just permission. When I see the clouds floating, I daydreaming on the patio. Simply hear nature – birds chirping, breezes through the trees, or waves on the coast break. Lie under the night sky looking at the stars. Appreciate the panoramic view from the top of the hill. You can slow yourself down until the time is no longer measured at all. It's a quiet, relaxed pace where worries loosen their grip and you remember what it's like to truly relax and create lasting, magical memories that fill your soul.
Lamont said, “Holidays aren't always about having to experience the next big thing. It's about throwing away the list and celebrating a wonderful, ordinary moment to find you. The anti-bucket list isn't about your destination, but about how you can fully allow yourself just when you're there.”
Visit www.firstgroup-sa.co.za to discover places that encourage you to slow down and practice.
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