The Honest Jonny | BLOG

So you think the phrase " I died and went to heaven" is passé. Well.... you haven't just returned from a ten night stay at Shandrani Resort & Spa. It was so good, that we had to extend our intended 8 night stay to ten. You part with your well earned cash before you leave, having paid in full for your holiday. Thereafter, you literally eat, drink and be merry - This fully inclusive package is, FULLY inclusive:

We arrived to a friendly, flawless check-in that was over in minutes. Entering our cool, spotless suites, with a breathtaking view, had the entire family (Mom, Dad and three Kids) giggling with excitement. At that stage, we were so glad to have chosen this resort that was only ten minutes from the airport. By dinner time we had fully unpacked, had our first swim in the warm ocean, and had a refreshing shower before entering the night of excitement.

Before our dinner, we went and investigated the Kids Club. There are so many activities from 09:00 until 22:00, that no kid could complain of boredom. From banana and glass bottom boating to t-shirt painting and dancing competitions - it's FUN all the way.

Our first night's dinner was a gastronomical experience, as were the other nine nights. You have a choice of five restaurants, and believe me, they are all worth dining in. The restaurants that do provide breakfasts and lunches are just as fantastic. You really are spoilt for choice. The best part is that you do not have to pay for any of the meals or drinks. Needless to say, I have returned wearing my ‘fat pants', but boy it was worth it. Where in the world can you have French Champagne at breakfast, lunch and dinner, and not have to cringe when you get the bill for it? There is no bill. So I made hay while the sun shone - and the sun did shine, every single day!

Realising that all of this good living could catch up with the waistline, we decided to partake of every activity on offer. We snorkelled, water-skied, cycled, played golf and tennis, went on the glass bottom boat, used the gym, and, and, and .............All of this not costing us an extra cent. Our children were at the boat house at 09:00 every morning as the boat house opened to have their daily ski (they are only 5, 7 and 9).

The SPA is un-be-lievable. The massage of course, was also included in your price. The therapists knew what they were doing. They actually have two SPA's on the premises, which is necessary, as they are both busy all the time. Make sure that you do all your spa and restaurant bookings soon after arriving- these venues are very busy.

The sunsets as well as the cocktails around the bar, were mind blowing. Try a "Kojak" when you go, just make sure that you sip it just after sunset, otherwise you may be too blurry to see it.

Shandrani really is for all, not just families. When we were there, they had a wedding a day, not to mention all the honeymooners around. They just separate the family and couple accommodation from each other. With the setting as it is at Shandrani, none of this surprises me.

We were heavy hearted when we finally had to leave our Eden called Shandrani, but rest assured, we will be back!

Fond regards,

Janine Louw