Heart of home or going it alone

JUST one of the many wonderful things about travelling is the range of choices you have when it comes to picking accommodation. For some, it is a matter of ease or the style and service offered by a five-star establishment; for others, it’s about budget, or the size of the group – which can include children and/or pets even – making selfcatering options attractive.

I’ve been lucky to stay in all sorts of places, and each brings its own benefits. Who doesn’t love the luxury of a top-class hotel which caters to every whim while discreetly observing your complete privacy? You cannot fail to feel glamorous when sipping Champagne while wearing a large fluffy robe and toying with the room service menu.

B&Bs and guest houses are more intimate, while self-catering allows freedom, especially when it comes to meals and sleeping late.

Tip: always put the Do Not Disturb sign on your hotel bedroom door so housekeeping doesn’t knock early in the morning. The “DND”, as it’s known in hospitality circles, is sacred and will be strictly respected.

There are plenty of booking sites and apps around to help you pick what’s best for you.

I spent a weekend in the Constantia Valley at two vastly different places on Airbnb.

At the invitation of a friend, the first night was in one of his rooms at his home. This was completely private, with a separate entrance accessed from the offstreet parking. The two rooms are compact and comfortable, with a kitchenette, shower, and – bliss – high-speed fibre. An elevated deck offers a view across the lush greenery that is so abundant in this area, despite the ongoing drought. It was secluded and quiet and I didn’t need to see a soul.

From there, I went to the other end of the spectrum with a large room in a large family home full of children (okay, just one, but he seemed like more sometimes), dogs ranging from the size of a slipper to roughly that of a small horse, and a huge garden in which to roam.

I can see the appeal of deciding to stay in such an environment, especially if you’re not familiar with the area. The input from locals on everything from where to eat to the closest ATM is priceless. Plus, a warm welcome into the bosom of the clan is most comforting, with all the fuzzy feels.

The Constantia Valley and its surrounds are very familyorientated, with lots of outdoor activities and restaurants catering to all ages. There’s that, and then there are wine farms, so eating and drinking is high on the “to do” list.

Pictures: Bianca Coleman FEAST FOR THE SENSES: The Constantia wine valley is exquisitely picturesque on clear autumn days.

Picture: Supplied Warm up with French onion soup at Constantia Glen.