For some, escapism exists as an antithesis to all they know – it is defiant of the habits of their everyday life, paradoxical in means, and contrary to predictability.

Some resorts cater to the dream of escaping, whether in the realm of adventure travel or unencumbered luxury, while other hospitality options favour giving travellers a polished version of familiarity. My recent travel escapades in Cape Town, concluded with revisiting familiar stomping ground, and still managing to leave with a wholly different experience than the last.

Introducing a staycation offer to remember, at ParkInn by Radisson.

The sentiment around travel is constantly being revisited, with locals and internationals still entranced by the varied layers that make up the Cape travel economy. ParkInn by Radisson situates itself conveniently as a dependable nexus to base yourself as a business, or leisure traveller. With their latest special offer, travellers can scoop some of the best offers – particularly the Couples Staycation.

With my hygiene and safety awareness at an all-time high, it was lovely to immediately add this hotel to the list of possible ideal Stylish Safe Stays, as they kept to their mandate to continuously deliver an outstanding experience from the minute you enter. I may not have been met by a bellhop at the door, but reception cared for me diligently, with a seamless check-in in a relatively empty foyer, and a cocktail to lubricate any anxieties after I’d heeded their hygiene protocols. Decals and signage everywhere from the restaurant to elevators, in-room and other public areas – along with hand sanitisers spritzing away as far as your eye can glimpse – placates many visitors as they flit about in their mandated face masks.

Without exceptions or grating reprimand, the Radisson team observes hygiene protocols with the airs of unassuming hospitality, and that vibe is rather welcome.

If you should choose the Staycation package I recommend, your room gets an upgrade (which will be carefully explained to you at reception, should you require specificity), and as such, you’re welcomed into a bigger space, with a cool atmosphere enhanced by the billowing blue curtains, greys & blues married in the furnishings, and burnishings of utilitarian light creating a moody ambience rather welcomed to mute out the business outside the hotel.

The hotel rooms feel like an amuse bouce – there to cleanse your palate and fortify you for anything to come. They are clean without being clinical, and peaceful without being coldly quiet.

More than not, I am a traveller who ventures out to solely dine and perhaps lightly traipse about the grounds. I am very much a fan of laying about in comfort, soaking in crisp white sheets I didn’t have to wash & starch, while I binge news programs (am I alone in this one?)

ParkInn by Radisson however, is not a one-trick pony where your vacations interesting features are bound to your suite – they’ve got range, considering their proximity to cultural touchpoints like the Bo-Kaap, trendy Kloof Street, and tourist-drawing V&A Waterfront. Past this hotel’s well-equipped hotel gym (regularly disinfected, and with a great air circulation system) though, and going up with their 2-max elevators, head high to the hotels’ famed sundeck. Here at Harald’s Bar & Terrace you’ll be privy to one of the best-framed views of the 7th World Wonder and the cosmopolitan city that enhances its virtues.

Enjoy a cocktail or 4, perhaps even starting your day by wading in the pool, before choosing from the selection of decent nibbles on offer. The rooftop menu isn’t too wildly inventive, and rather favouring dependable favourites in this hearty and fusion-loving foodie city, but visit the ground-floor, pub-style restaurant RBG Bar & Grill, and be tantalized by a menu that’s far more intriguing, carefully plated, and spirited in its heartiness – with a refreshing chef at the helm making all these meals possible.

Truly, the chefs tasting menu at RGB Bar & Grill, is worth recommending!

They also have some of the most refined wines for a romantic dinner – and affordable to boot – at the ready here, in addition to plenty non-alcoholic libations. You could pop in and quench your thirst, even if you aren’t a guest – just always wear your face mask!

Should you wish to get your money’s worth in the upgraded suite that comes with this ParkInn by Radisson hotel offer, enjoy a new sunrise with cafe-style breakfast on your private balcony. Overlooking the cityscape while munching on a selection of breakfast treats able to be customized to your tastes, is rather lovely. The hotel kindly offers healthy juice shots, fresh seasonal fruits, and – for the traditionalists – a hearty English Breakfast.

Still not keen to venture outside for one reason or another? Why not order a DIY Cupcake Decorating Kit from the famed Charly’s Bakery nearby?!

I am a fan of the bakery, having enjoyed more treats than just the High Tea they recently started selling to rave reviews. They now offer a kit with flavour and theme choices that should add cheer and giggles to your snack time. For as little as R60 get a kit complete with:

• x1 Vanilla or Wicked Chocolate cupcake
• x1 Tub of Ganache or Butter Icing Piping Bag
• x1 Packet of Fondant Character Decorations and/or Designer Sprinkles

If you are travelling with little ones (or sweet-toothed big ones), they will love the unicorn, teddy bear, penguin, and even dinosaur themes to choose from – I did!

Verdict?

After one other prior visit, I still stand firm that I would return to this hotel. Its value for money, and straightforward simplicity (for me) is a pleasing balm, and the staff’s attentiveness has truly endeared itself to me.

By the way: If you wondered what other perks greet you here, with this offer, there’s: Free parking, late check-out, complimentary Wi-Fi, and more.

ParkInn by Radisson is a clean Stylish Safe Stay to try!