Everyone has their own perfect way to unwind and enjoy some time away from home and hey, who are we to judge at how exactly you get your holiday kicks?

I guess it might be something of a personal preference but there are a few boxes a destination must tick before I’m willing to consider it a candidate for a summer getaway. I’m going to need a pool, somewhere to enjoy a morning dip to kickstart the day. Then I’m going to insist on somewhere to braai – there’s something about the smoky sizzle of meat that puts me at ease.

Lastly, and you may disagree with me here, but I like to have DStv when I get back from a day out and about. A movie before bed time, a quick catch up on the day’s sport and I’m ready to hit the hay.

These places you’ll find below satisfy those demands and then some – here we go…

Far Horizons, Camps Bay (Western Cape) – From R950 per unit

Far Horizons nestles between the Twelve Apostles mountain and the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Ocean facing rooms with a queen size bed, bath and walk in shower with a private deck and sea views – I think that qualifies as luxurious living in my book.

A space to put your feet up, relax end enjoy the most beautiful sunsets or a dip in the pool after a day of exploring Cape Town.

Allstar Villa Guest House, Milnerton (Western Cape) – From R490 per person

Allstar Villa is located at stunning Sunset Beach, just a stone’s throw away from the Atlantic Ocean and with picturesque views of Table Mountain. After an exhausting day of sightseeing or a strenuous business meeting, arrive back to the privacy of the homely estate and enjoy a glass of world-famous Cape wine or relax in the pool area.

Aqua View 27 Guesthouse, Vaal Dam (Gauteng) – From R450 per person

Aqua View 27 Guesthouse is located on the banks of the Vaal Dam in a quaint town of Deneysville. Activities in the area include boating, skiing, cycling, fishing, horse riding and golfing, and great fun for the children is ten-pin bowling, wall climbing and putt-putt.

There are also game drives available, pigeon shooting, 4×4 trails and quad bike trails. Take a day trip and visit the crocodile and lion farm, biker’s museum, bird sanctuary and Animal World or visit Emerald Casino and Africa Spa.

Cradle Valley, Muldersdrift (Gauteng) – From R550 per person

Lying just off one of the main highways in the Muldersdrift area, Cradle Valley offers bed and breakfast accommodation to guests. This is a great option for corporate or leisure travellers en route to Potchefstroom or Pretoria.

The garden provides an idyllic place to relax, while the swimming pool is the perfect spot to cool off while appreciating the majestic mountain views.

64 Perissa, Ballito (KZN) – From R950 per unit

64 Perissa is located in the Santorini Estate in Ballito. This Greek-styled villa is set in the Perissa Village and overlooks the Santorini semi-private beach.

There are three bedrooms in this self-catering villa. The kitchen is fully equipped with a microwave, a fridge, a dishwasher and a washing machine. The living and dining area leads out onto a balcony which has amazing views of the sea. The balcony also has sun loungers and a Weber braai.

Cabanas no 8, Umdloti Beach (KZN) – From R700 per person

Cabanas no 8 is a modern multi-level apartment situated in the Umdloti Cabanas apartment complex. The self-catering apartment offers the ideal family vacation spot, across the road from the beach.

Umdloti is a small seaside villa with shops and restaurants all within walking distance.

Bust out the swimming costume (no speedos please, we must take a stand) and the sunscreen and get your backside into gear – we all deserve a little something special to celebrate making it through 2015 in one piece.