Recently researching reasons to have a friends adventure weekend away, I ironically realised, you don’t need ANY! There are indeed multiple benefits to going away on an all female folly, however having a ‘reason’ is not a requirement for such getaways. Or for any travel, for that matter! Seeking out experiences whether solo, coupled up, boys trips or girl power one simply requires the desire and the rest is history!
“There is an unspoken bond you create with friends that you travel with.” Kristen Sarah.
Inspired by a fresh recount of an all girl trip to Matobo National Park, Hideaways would like to acknowledge the wandering wonders of women! These ladies treated themselves to a weekend at Shashani Matobo Hills Lodge, located atop a granite copy with an infinite panoramic view of the valley below. Quality time stretching as far as the horizon was a top priority for this group of girl-friends, taking a moment out of daily routines to reconnect to themselves and each other.
“In life, it doesn’t matter where you go, it’s who you travel with.” Charles Schulz
This quote rings true, however it does help to be going to a national park decorated with ancient rock paintings, carpeted in golden grass with the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of rhino! 65km outside the city of Bulawayo makes it the perfect location for a weekend getaway, whether that be exploring the land, observing cave paintings or simply lazing by the pool. The point is, you’re together, with your nearest and dearest, your tribe, your sisterhood; your best friends.
“You can pack for every occasion, but a good friend will be the best thing you can bring.” Anonymous
As the saying goes, memories are made to be shared. One of the wonderful wins of going away with friends is reminiscing about previous adventures, reminding each other who you are. The repetition of daily life can sometimes quieten our sense of ourselves beyond a mother, wife, girlfriend, daughter – and it is important to remember we are holistic beings! Sharing collected memories while making new ones is food for the soul, reconnecting to one’s core beyond routine. It is here where the champagne may be popped, the bubbles poured and conversation flows, taking time to chat and laugh and listen.
“The best therapy in the world is time out with your friends.” Anonymous
Taking time to prioritise and place value in your friendships is a reciprocal type of self-care. There are no rules, no expectations, no explanations. Just be. Be fragile, be excited, be inspired and be present. Cultivating a culture of care and a support system with your tribe is important for your mental health. Whether you simply need time to unwind, off-load, seek experiences or share matters of the heart, the heart of the matter lies in the merit of companionship. It has been proven that time with the people who you love releases serotonin, oxytocin as well as dopamine, so adhere to science and book that trip!
“A good friend listens to your adventures, a great friend creates them with you.” Anonymous
We all need time away, a change of scenery, a new perspective. Putting responsibilities aside for a moment allows us to reboot, refuel and remember what we are grateful for. Unfiltered, honest connection in untamed and remote locations allows us to breathe for a moment and find balance. Being outdoors and away from the bustle of life calls for presence, gifting quality time we perhaps don’t often find in our daily routines. Find that pocket of time, call your girlfriends, pack your bags and make memories.
“Life was meant for good friends and great adventures.” Anonymous
