Dear friends and other interesting creatures,
Situated on the outskirts of Vanderbijlpark, even in the late afternoon Friday traffic, Emerald Resort & Casino is only an hours drive from Johannesburg. Turn up the tunes and the weekend is set.
ACCOMMODATION
While there are various accommodation options available at the Resort, I stayed in the Hotel with friends. I’m a room service type girl. Terribly high maintenance (not?) but fabulous!
Hotel
The highlight of the room for me was a huge bath in which I lay in with bubbles and for that moment, did not have a care in the world. The bath alone is a feature I would return for!
There are more than one self-catering option. Log cabins, nestled between the trees to more affordable little houses (chalets), something not only for every budget but also every lifestyle.
Bush Lodge
Chalets
ENTERTAINMENT
If my children were younger they would have found Emerald Resort heavenly. It would have been impossible to get Liam James and Victoria out of the Aqua Dome! It is a huge indoor, heated water play area.
Kevi would have opted for the Putt-Putt or Ten Pin Bowling I suspect… or a walk through the Animal Kingdom.
For adults, there are of course the Casino itself, a Spa, Game Drives, River Cruises, chilling next to the Pool or stay over a weekend when Concerts take place in the arena.
FOOD, GLORIOUS FOOD
Food-wise, there are some takeaway options, but I prefer a sit-down meal because I like to linger and watch people!
We had breakfast at the Hotel which was served buffet style, with a side menu for more interesting dishes which included Eggs Benedict and a meal of Egg, Avocado and Tomato. I choose this option both mornings but I cannot recall the name of the dish. I clearly enjoyed it, however! Cappuccino keeps flowing delivered by friendly staff.
“Breeze” is a great lunchtime spot with a creative cocktail menu. I admit I was more focused on cocktails than food after a very proper breakfast!
“High Stakes” is a more formal, leaning towards fine dining experience. An impressive wine selection, at very affordable prices.
“High Steaks” makes the best garlic bread! I especially enjoyed the Caprese Salad, Salmon with creamy mashed potato and Malva pudding.
EXPLORE EMERALD
River cruising took on a new meaning for me when we took a leisurely trip on the Vaal with “Liquid Lounge”. Beautifully set tables, eating a wholesome meal, listening to live music and later just lounging upstairs, taking in the sights.
I would recommended Emerald to families, couples and even single travel. Plenty to see and do in a beautiful setting.
NOTES
The outstanding, super impressive WiFi connection deserves a mention. Travelling all over this large property, I was always connected. This is important to me and I was pleasantly surprised.
From the Hotel, the shuttle driver, to the restaurants we ate at, the Staff was outstanding. We met such characters and for me, the staff was part of what made the weekend special. Thank you!
When booking accommodation makes sure to ask for a room that overlooks the Pool, Garden or River.
You need to book for any “Liquid Lounge” trips as they are very popular.
Gamble responsibly!I wish you enough,
Wenchy
Nocturnal Wenchy 
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