The Royal Swazi Experience

Last weekend, I took a trip across the South African border to our neighbouring country of Swaziland. Eventhough it is one of the Southern Hemisphere's smallest countries, the congenial Swazi hospitality and stunning mountainous landscapes made it well worth the visit.

Swaziland borders Safrica to the north east, and is ruled over by King Mswati III.
Map via Google Images

Our accommodation for the weekend was the Royal Swazi Villas, a luxurious home away from home that superseded my expectations with it's spacious chambers and modern design. This double story chalet features 4 bedrooms, 5 bathrooms, an open plan lounge, dining room and kitchen. The entire villa is encircled by glass doors and high windows, attracting warmth from the fiery Swazi sun and an abundance of light. 

The King Suite offers an imperial living experience where you can truly reside as royalty for the duration of your stay. The bed was so comfy, we almost didn't want to leave. A separate dressing room closeted all our luggage and the palatial bathroom with jacuzzi bath enhanced the grandeur of the villa. I wouldn't suggest opening any windows or doors though...one small gap and we found ourselves facing the cockamouse from How I Met Your Mother. 

Yes people, it does exist.

The Villa easily accommodated our group of ten people, with different suites to choose from. These were two of the other opulent bedrooms in the house. 

The African baroque themed lounge and dining room was like a page out of a home decor magazine, tastefully decorated with beautiful furnishings.

The best time to cruise the swimming pool would be late at night, where you can have the place all to yourself and escape the extreme daytime heat.

Image via Royal Villas.co.sz

For an authentic tribal Swazi experience, you can opt to stay in one of these traditional beehive reed huts within the compounds of the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary.

Royal Swazi Spa is one of country's best golfing resorts with an 18-hole championship course.

Image via suninternational.com

We took a leisurely hike through the Mantenga Nature Reserve where a winding pathway paved with lush greenery, shady indigenous trees and soothing bird songs led us toward the majestic Mantenga Falls. Perfect for a picnic or afternoon dip, being immersed in such exquisite natural beauty was the highlight of the trip.

Being a short (and at times rainy) weekend, I didn't get a chance to see more of Swaziland, and as I have heard, there is a lot more that this wonderful country has to offer. It is only about a two-and-half hour drive (there is also an airport), so I would definitely recommend a trip to any fellow South Africans and international tourists.