DAY ROOMS WITH A TWIST
We’ve all been there—long layovers that leave you feeling tired and restless. But what if we told you there’s a way to make those hours fly by, in comfort in Johannesburg and Nairobi? In this edition we introduce three exciting concepts of day room experiences, an often-overlooked gem for travellers seeking a refreshing break during lengthy waits at the airport.
Fireblade Aviation, based at O.R. Tambo International Airport, offers a world-class aviation service and charterable fleet. Their secure facilities, adjacent to the business lounge, streamline South African Border control for international arrivals and departures on private charters. Managed independently by the government, these facilities ensure efficient processing by Immigrations, Customs, Port Health, and the South African Police Services.
The Fireblade Aviation Terminal houses a variety of hospitality options that include a VIP Lounge, board rooms, a children’s play room, day rooms, showers and spa and gym facilities. Fireblade also offers long term baggage storage in a secure holding area. Meet & Greet and transfer services can also be easily arranged to and from O.R. Tambo to Fireblade Aviation so that guests with long lay overs in Johannesburg are able to enjoy a serene and relaxing space away
Did you know?
Fireblade Aviation houses a beautiful selection of wall art and sculptural artwork from the renowned Everard Read Gallery in Johannesburg. The entire collection is available for sale, and ten percent of the proceeds are donated towards conservation work.
James Delaney now has an even bigger and brighter studio art space at Victoria Yards, just 20 minutes from O.R. Tambo. This offers a unique ‘Day Room’ experience for guests who appreciate art and enjoy last-minute shopping for curios before heading home. The studio can host guests with an informal harvest table-style lunch and pizza for the kids, all provided by entrepreneurs at Victoria Yards. Lunch will be hosted by James, if he is available, or another creative from Victoria Yards. Coffee, gin, cocktails, and other drinks are offered at an extra cost by store owners in an effort to support the local community. There’s also a secure lounge where guests can charge their phones, store shopping bags, and freshen up in the new bathroom before heading back to the airport.
Did you know?
Victoria Yards was originally a steam laundry built in 1913. It stood derelict for years before being transformed into a vibrant hub for artists, teachers, and creative enterprises in 2016.
Sheba’s Secret Garden is located in Nairobi, Kenya, just an hour’s drive from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and 30 minutes from Wilson Airport. It offers a unique “Day Room” experience, providing guests with a private and serene destination. Instead of enduring uncomfortable airport chairs or noisy lounges, we recommend booking guests at Sheba’s Secret Garden, an exclusive use snug home. The home features a fully provisioned pantry and bar, a lounge area, luxurious grounds, and a master bedroom reminiscent of Lamu, perfect for guests to relax and rejuvenate. Sheba’s Day Room can accommodate up to 6 guests for 12 hours. For overnight stays, a chauffeured vehicle can be arranged, allowing guests the flexibility to explore the surrounding area during the day.
Did you know?
There is a gin distillery on the property called Shagalabagala – Swahili for chaos, disorder, mayhem, hodgepodge, mishmash ; all over the shop.. innumerable translations, innuendo, meaning, ruse and use.
During my recent visit to the Residence Hotel in Johannesburg, I had the pleasure of experiencing a leisurely stroll through their newly reimagined outdoor space guided by the delightful Nosipho. Gone are the traditional tennis courts; in their place, the Residence has crafted a serene outdoor haven where guests can bask in the warmth of the African sun by day or unwind with a glass of wine or a comforting hot chocolate around the inviting new boma area. The wooden decks are tastefully adorned with tables, chairs, and loungers, creating an inviting atmosphere.
The hotel’s entrance and lounge area has received a fresh coat of paint, lending the entire property a renewed vibrancy. Some of the rooms have undergone thoughtful enhancements, enhancing brightness and privacy. The Residence remains one of our preferred partners in Johannesburg, and personally, I find that the new outdoor area breathes fresh life into the property, harmonizing beautifully with their esteemed Mukwa River Lodge in Zambia. – Eluisa Di Benedetto
Please contact our Safari Designers for any information on our preferred partners in this
Collective edition.
Keeping the dream alive,
Eluisa Di Benedetto | Product Manager
