With Father’s Day around the corner, now is the perfect time to pick out that gift that says to your papa “you’re the best dad ever”. Of course, that’s generally far easier said than done, and no, socks alone do not tend to proclaim this as much as you’d assume. This year, put some thought into your gift and pick something your father will truly cherish!
- Food, glorious food
What better way to show your dad you appreciate him, than by organising a snack basket which he can lay out in time for the next rugby match? Fill it with quick and easy foods like mini-chip packets, salted nuts, a case of his favourite beers, biltong of course, and some microwaveable popcorn.
Is the above not quite your dad’s thing? No problem! How about a basket filled with a variety of winter warmers for the upcoming cold nights? Items like tinned soups, crackers, custard powder, snap hand warmers (or a microwavable bean bag), new slippers, a pair of fluffy socks (which work well when given with other homey items), and even a thermos flask with tea bags or hot chocolate will certainly come in handy.
- Weekend Getaway
Is work and family life keeping you busy and leaving no time for a proper catch-up with your father? Then start planning a long-weekend getaway with your dad and get in some bonding time. Pick an accommodation style that will match your dad’s personality, such as a fancy hotel, a rustic self-catering accommodation, or homey B&B, located close to activities he enjoys like golf or fishing. At any of the below you’ll find opportunities to relax, and chat, in a comfortable environment:
Aloe Ridge B&B in KwaZulu-Natal. Aloe Ridge B&B is just 30 minutes away from Durban, and surrounded by lush, tropical beauty which includes plenty of aloes and acacia trees. Perfect for those who want to tour the area and visit Tala Game Ranch, the Valley of 1000 Hills, and Pezula.
Fourways Gardens Guest Estate in Gauteng. This 4-star rated Victorian-styled accommodation offers plenty of luxury and opulence, and they are well located for trips to Monte Casino and Fourways Mall. The food is divine and a majority of the produce is grown on the estate.
La Petite Dauphine in the Western Cape. A working wine farm with plenty of beautiful rooms and communal areas means a stay here will be characterised by elegance and friendly service. The under floor heating, fireplaces, percale linens, and bathrobes are excellent luxurious touches.
Paxton Hotel in the Eastern Cape. This lovely 4-star rated hotel overlooks Algoa Bay, and is close to many local activities and museums. Expect outstanding service, luxury rooms, and wonderful facilities. Very close to the Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment Complex.
Nkambeni Safari Camp in Mpumalanga. At this 3-star safari camp, you’ll get to experience the joy of being within nature, and can go on game drives for an additional fee. The tented camps are cosy, the bush pub overlooks the waterhole which often has hippos, and the food is outstanding.
- Gadgets and Hobbies
If your dad is more hands-on than anything else, look at getting him some gadgets to add to his available repertoire. As the eco-consciousness trend is still going strong world-wide, consider getting him a solar powered security floodlight or a funky bamboo USB drive. If your father is into cooking then browse YuppiChef and find him some great kitchen appliances and cook books. If he’s a gardening enthusiast, consider a new set of tools to use or spend the day helping him create a herb patch.
If things are a little tight this month and gifts aren’t an option, just get together and spend some time with your father. If you’re miles apart, Skype with him, call him, and above all else, ensure that dad knows he’s loved and appreciated.
Let us know what you’ve got planned this Father’s Day!
Main image by tanya_little (Flickr)
