Escape to Paradise: The Oasis Hotel, Upington's Hidden Gem

The Oasis Hotel Upington South Africa

Escape to Paradise: The Oasis Hotel, Upington's Hidden Gem

Escape to Paradise: The Oasis Hotel, Upington - My Upington Adventure (and Honestly, Expectations Were EXCEEDED!)

Okay, so Upington. Let’s be honest, it’s not exactly the first place that springs to mind when you dream of a luxury getaway. But Escape to Paradise: The Oasis Hotel? That place genuinely surprised me. Like, really surprised me. This isn't just a hotel; it’s a little slice of, well, oasis, right in the heart of the Northern Cape. Let's dive in, shall we? Because honestly, I have thoughts. And they’re… well, you'll see.

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• Title: Escape to Paradise: The Oasis Hotel Upington Review - Hidden Gem? (Spoiler: Absolutely!)
• Keywords: Oasis Hotel Upington, Upington hotels, Northern Cape accommodation, South African hotels, accessible hotels, wheelchair accessible, spa hotel, swimming pool, restaurant Upington, luxury hotel, family friendly hotel Upington, Oasis Hotel review, Upington South Africa, fitness center, WiFi, pet-friendly hotel (but maybe not!), safe hotel, clean hotel, COVID protocols, Upington travel.

First Impressions & Getting Settled (Accessibility, Cleanliness, and the Dreaded 'Rona):

Right, so picture this: dusty Upington, baking sun… then BAM! A lush, green property. The Oasis Hotel is surprisingly verdant. And honestly, after the long drive, it felt like an actual oasis.

Accessibility: Okay, I'm not always the easiest to please when it comes to accessibility (blame a dodgy knee!), and I'm happy to report that it's pretty darn good. Wheelchair accessible is a big tick for me, with ramps and elevators readily available. Even the swimming pool area seemed manageable, which is a massive win. They actually thought about it!

Cleanliness and Safety: This is where the Oasis Hotel REALLY shines. I'm a bit of a germaphobe (don't judge!), and I was beyond impressed. Anti-viral cleaning products? Check. Daily disinfection in common areas? Check. Rooms sanitized between stays? Double check! They even had a sanitized kitchen and tableware items! The staff were seriously on top of things; they had obviously been trained in safety protocols, and everything felt reassuringly clean. The hand sanitizer stations were plentiful, and they took physical distancing of at least 1 meter seriously (though sometimes, I’d catch a staff member rushing to wipe down a table and end up nearly tripping over the cleaning supplies haha!) – it felt like a genuinely safe environment. The fact they included a breakfast takeaway service and had Individually-wrapped food options was a nice touch. It really put me at ease; I think I saw a nurse on-call at one point if needed (thankfully, didn't).

The Room (And the Absolutely AMAZING Bed):

My room was… well, it was a room. But a good room! Seriously, I was ready to move in. The Air conditioning actually worked (a small miracle in Upington!), and the blackout curtains meant I could sleep in until noon if I wanted (I didn't. I’m an early riser. Don't ask). And the bed…OH. MY. GOD. The bed was heavenly. Seriously, one of the best beds I have ever slept in. Extra long bed? Check. High floor? Check. Soundproofing? Mostly. You can almost still hear the quietness. The complimentary tea & coffee maker and free bottled water were also appreciated.

Things That Made Me Smile (and a few eye-rolls):

• Smiley Face - I loved that they had a mini-bar, and it was reasonably priced. Made my evenings even more enjoyable.
• Rolled Eyes - I’m not sure one of the safety/security feature in my room was working, I mean, do I really need to be able to call the bathroom from the phone?
• Smiley Face - The slippers were a nice touch. Luxury!
• Rolled Eyes - At one point, I accidentally left the alarm clock on, and it went off blaring some cheesy pop song at 6 am. Lesson learned.
• Smiley Face - The Internet access – wireless and Wi-Fi [free] was solid, and I didn’t have any problems streaming my favorite shows.

Dining, Drinking, and Snacking (Food Glorious Food!):

Okay, let's talk food. This is where the Oasis Hotel REALLY delivers.

• The Breakfast Buffet Experience: The breakfast buffet was fantastic. A buffet in restaurant with a massive selection; from Western breakfast to Asian breakfast, there was something for everyone. They had fresh fruit, pastries, eggs cooked every way imaginable… the works. I may have, ahem, gone back for seconds (and thirds) on the pastries.
• The Restaurants, Bars, and Lounges: There are restaurants, a poolside bar, and a coffee shop on-site. The a la carte in restaurant experience was delightful; they even had a vegetarian restaurant menu option. The poolside bar was perfect for a sundowner (or several…), and the Happy hour was indeed happy! I did not see any Snack bar however, but for the life of me, I couldn’t find it!
• Room Service: The room service [24-hour] was a lifesaver when I had a late-night craving. The Bottle of water was always provided.

Ways to Relax (Spa, Pool, and… Well, More Pool?):

• The Pool Life: The Swimming pool [outdoor] is gorgeous. Crystal clear, sparkling, and a perfect temperature. The Pool with view overlooks the lush gardens. I spent a lot of time there, just… chilling.
• Spa Day: I didn't partake in a full Spa day (didn't have the time!), but I peeked at the Spa/sauna facilities, and they looked amazing. They offered things like a Body scrub and Body wrap, as well as massage. The Sauna was there, but I didn't get a chance to use it.
• Fitness Fanatics: If you're feeling energetic, they have a Fitness center and Gym/fitness. I, uh, passed on that one.

Services and Conveniences (The Little Things That Matter):

• Convenience is Key: They had a Concierge, Daily housekeeping, a Doorman, Laundry service, and even Dry cleaning. It’s nice to be pampered, right?
• Business Bits and Bobs: They have Business facilities, including Meeting/banquet facilities and Projector/LED display. I saw someone holding a seminar.
• Getting Around: The Airport transfer service was super convenient. They also have a Car park [free of charge] and a Taxi service, which is ideal for exploring.

For the Kids (Family Fun!):

The hotel is surprisingly Family/child friendly. They have, Babysitting service and Kids facilities.

The Little Things (The Quirky Observations):

• The Staff: The staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. Yes, occasionally, communication broke down (there was a slight incident involving a lost laundry bag), but their enthusiasm and willingness to help more than made up for it.
• The Ambiance: The Oasis Hotel has a relaxed, peaceful vibe. It felt more like a boutique hotel than a massive chain hotel. It was very much an escape to paradise. I felt relaxed and content, which is what I wanted.
• The Imperfections: Look, it's not perfect, and that's part of the charm. It's a real, lived-in hotel - not a sterile, corporate box.

The Verdict (And Would I Go Back?):

Absolutely. The Oasis Hotel exceeded my expectations in every way. It's clean, comfortable, and genuinely welcoming. The facilities are excellent, the staff are lovely, and the food is delicious. If you're looking for a relaxing and memorable stay in Upington, look no further. This place is genuinely a little hidden gem. And yes, I'm already planning my return. 10/10 would recommend.

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The Oasis Hotel Upington South Africa

The Oasis Hotel, Upington: My Desert Dream (and a Few Cactus Pricks) - A Messy Itinerary

Okay, buckle up buttercups, because this ain't your sanitized, perfectly-timed itinerary. This is me, unleashed in Upington, South Africa, and it's going to be glorious, messy, and probably involve me accidentally ordering something I can't pronounce. Let's dive in:

Day 1: The Arrival (and Immediate Panic About the Heat)

• 14:00 - 15:00: Arrival at Oasis Hotel, Upington.
  • Aaaand breathe. Landing at Upington airport, feeling the relentless sun beating down like a personal judgment. Seriously, is it always this hot? Checked into the Oasis. First impressions? Clean, which is a win, and a pool that's calling my name. More on that later.
  • Quirky Observation: The reception desk is manned by a woman who looks exactly like a kindly, but slightly weary, librarian. I'm already tempted to ask her for reading recommendations.
  • Emotional Reaction: Mild panic about unpacking and the sheer vastness of the desert landscape. I feel like a tiny ant about to be swallowed by a particularly sandy monster.
• 15:00 - 16:00: Room Exploration and Immediate Dehydration.
  • Room is lovely. Simple, clean, A/C blasting! Thank god.
  • Imperfection Alert: I may have dropped a sock behind the bed. Don't judge.
  • Opinionated Language: The complimentary coffee is instant. Instant. Seriously, Oasis? Come on!
• 16:00 - 18:00: Poolside Reconnaissance and the Great Sun Cream Disaster.
  • Decided to brave the pool. The water is like a cool, beautiful oasis. I spent a good 20 minutes carefully applying sunscreen, only to discover…I'd grabbed the after suncream. Facepalm.
  • Anecdote: A little kid with a bright red nose cannonballed into the pool, soaking me in the process. I laughed, then secretly plotted revenge with my newly acquired after suncream.
  • Messier Structure: Okay, so this pool…it's fantastic. Seriously, get in the pool at least twice a day to experience its magic.
• 18:00 - 19:00: Evening Meal at the Oasis Restaurant.
  • Ordered the bobotie. It was…well, it was food. Let's just say I wouldn't be rushing back for seconds.
  • Emotional Reaction: Slightly disappointed. I was really hoping for a South African food explosion, but the bobotie was…meh.
  • Rambling: Maybe it's user error. I'm sure someone else will love it.
• 19:00 - 21:00: Early Night/Avoiding Mosquitoes.
  • Bedtime, because I'm already exhausted.

Day 2: River Adventures (and a Near-Death Experience with a Fish)

• 07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast and Regretting Not Ordering More Coffee.
  • The breakfast buffet, bless its heart, had actual, brewed coffee. Redemption!
  • Opinionated Language: The fruit was amazing, though. Seriously, the mangoes were practically dripping with sunshine.
• 08:00 - 12:00: Orange River Cruise. (The Grand Adventures Begin)
  • The Orange River! Oh, it was stunning. Gliding along the water, the sun on my face. It was incredible.
  • Anecdote: The guide, a grizzled old dude named Piet, kept regaling us with stories of hippos (we didn't see any) and crocodiles (thankfully missed those too). He also managed to expertly maneuver the boat.
  • Doubling Down on Experience: The river was a tapestry of colors, the light changing by the minute. You have to go into the river at least once in your life and swim in it.
  • Emotional Reaction: Pure joy. Pure bliss. I was officially in love with the desert.
• 12:00 - 13:00: Lunch at a Riverside Cafe (and the Fish Encounter).
  • Simple, filling.
  • Imperfections: I accidentally ordered fish. I'm a vegetarian.
  • Emotional Reaction: Mild horror, then a surprisingly philosophical discussion with myself about the role of fish in the universe.
  • Quirky Observation: The cafe owner had a parrot named "Kalahari," who kept shouting, "More beer!"
• 13:00 - 18:00: Back to the Oasis: the Pool Takes a Toll.
  • Back to the Oasis. It's starting to be a sort of sanctuary.
  • Emotional Reaction: Tired, but happy. I need the pool.
• 18:00 - 20:00: Dinner at a local Restaurant. (The search for Authentic Cuisine Continues)
  • Found an amazing restaurant, with amazing beef.
  • Rambling: This place was the best.
• 20:00: Sleep.

Day 3: A Sunburnt Farewell (and Promises to Return)

• 07:00 - 08:00: Breakfast.
  • Coffee and more of the brilliant fruit.
• 08:00 - 10:00: Last Dip in the Pool and Packing.
  • One last glorious swim.
  • Imperfection Alert: Realized I'd left my favorite hat by the pool. Sigh.
• 10:00 - 12:00: Check-Out and Farewell to Upington.
  • Said goodbye to the librarian. I didn't ask for recommendations. I just left.
  • Emotional Reaction: A pang of sadness at leaving, but also a sense of gratitude for the experience.
  • Opinionated Language: Upington, you magnificent desert enigma, I'll be back! And next time, I'm bringing a hat!
  • Messier Structure: Leaving the gate
• 12:00: Airport.

In Conclusion:

This trip was messy, delicious, and far from perfect. Upington, with the Oasis Hotel as my temporary home, challenged me to embrace the scorching sun, the slightly questionable cuisine, and the occasional near-fish-related crisis. And you know what? I loved every minute of it.

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The Oasis Hotel Upington South Africa```html

Okay, so "Escape to Paradise: The Oasis Hotel"... Sounds a bit, well, *optimistic*, doesn't it? Is it really paradise?

Alright, let's be real. Paradise? Nah, not *literally*. But Upington, in the middle of… well, mostly nothing… *needs* an oasis. And the Oasis Hotel? It gets *damn* close. My first thought pulling up? "Did I accidentally end up in a Wes Anderson film?" Turquoise walls, perfectly manicured gardens, the whole shebang. Granted, the turquoise *might* be a bit aggressive in the midday sun, but hey, character, right? It's more "charming escape" than "divine realm," but after driving for six hours across the Kalahari? Charming works. Believe me. After that long, you're just praying for a clean bed and a cold beer. The Oasis delivers on both, spectacularly.

What's the vibe? Is it all polished corporate types or something more… chilled?

Chilled. Definitely chilled. Think more "khaki shorts and sun-kissed skin" than "power suits and pre-dinner cocktails." Okay, there were a few corporate types, I saw them furiously typing away on their laptops by the pool (poor souls). But mostly, it's families, couples looking for a romantic getaway (I saw some serious *petting* going on, good for them!), and weary travelers like myself. It felt… real. People were chatting, laughing, actually *relaxing*. I think I even saw a dog, but that might have been a mirage. Upington does that to you.

The pool. Is it as good as it looks in the photos? Because, you know, photos.

The pool. Oh, the pool. Okay, the photos… they're not *entirely* misleading. It's a stunner. Sparkling clear water, surrounded by lush greenery. I swear, the minute I saw it, I made a beeline. I spent a solid three hours there the first afternoon. The water wasn't freezing, the sun was glorious, the cocktails… (more on those later, maybe) And yes, there's a swim-up bar. Let's just say I discovered I have a *very* strong affinity for pineapple juice and rum. The only downside? Getting *out* was a struggle. Pure, unadulterated bliss. It really is the heart and soul of the place.

Speaking of cocktails… The food and drink? Spill the beans!

Alright, alright, the food. Okay, it's not Michelin-star stuff, but it's *good*. Really good. And after driving through the semi-desert, anything edible is a win! The restaurant is open-air, which is perfect for the warm evenings, and the staff are friendly and attentive. The breakfast buffet has everything you could want -- bacon, eggs, fruit, and enough coffee to wake the dead. I may have gone back for seconds (okay, thirds) on the croissants. Dinner? They have a *mean* grilled steak. Seriously, I'm a steak snob, and I was impressed. And the cocktails? *Chef's kiss*. They're generous with the measures, let's just say that. The mango daiquiri nearly sent me into a coma of happiness. Worth it. Absolutely worth it. The only slight bummer? The wine list is a bit, hmmm, *limited*. But hey, small potatoes. The vibe makes up for everything.

What about the rooms? Are they comfortable? Clean? And what are the views like?

The rooms… Yes! Clean and spacious. I hate a cramped hotel room, and these are great. I had a room overlooking the pool, which was glorious. Waking up and seeing that shimmering water? Instant good mood. They're not ultra-modern, more classic hotel style, but perfectly functional. The bed was comfortable, the air conditioning worked (essential!), and the bathroom was spotless. Everything you need, nothing you don't. My only minor gripe? The TV had limited channels. But honestly, after all that driving, I didn't even turn it on. Who wants to watch TV when you're in *Upington*?!

Is there anything to do *besides* just lounging by the pool?

Okay, so, Upington. It's not exactly buzzing with nightlife. But yes, there are things to do! You can visit the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park - which is incredible, or River rafting, or just take a scenic drive along the Orange River (that's a must-do). The Oasis Hotel itself can arrange tours and activities. I didn't go on any, because, well... pool. But I heard good things! Honestly, I was in full relaxation mode. I needed a break. And let's be honest, after a certain distance on the open road a pool is all you need. But if you're feeling adventurous, there's plenty to keep you occupied, for sure.

What about the staff? Are they friendly and helpful?

The staff! Oh, the staff. They were lovely. Absolutely lovely. I'm not easily impressed, but they were genuinely friendly and helpful. Always smiling, always willing to assist. From the front desk to the bar staff to the cleaning crew, everyone was top-notch. There was a slight issue with my room key (my fault, I'm a klutz!), and they sorted it out immediately, with zero fuss. It's the little things, you know? The Oasis Hotel gets those little things *right*. It makes a huge difference. Makes you feel like you’re actually welcome, and not just a walking wallet. Seriously. Five stars for staff attitude alone.

Okay, spill. What was the single *best* thing about the Oasis Hotel? The one thing you'll never forget?

Okay, this is where it gets… personal. So, picture this: late afternoon. The sun is beginning to dip, casting a golden glow over the pool. I've already had approximately four cocktails – I'd lost count by that point – and I'm sprawled out on a sun lounger, book in hand, attempting to look sophisticated (failing miserably, probably). Suddenly, a small troop of baboons ambles out of the adjacent yard, a sight in the semi-desert you don't see everyday. They casually stroll past the pool, barely giving me a glance, on the way to, I can only assume, steal snacks from unsuspecting tourists. (Which is what they are there for, no, let's be real, they are thieves). It doesn't matter, this is the moment. The sheer surrealness of it. The pure, unadulterated *weirdness* of it all. And the sudden, overwhelming wave of peace and contentment that washed over me. I just thought, "This. This is what I needed." Upington, the Oasis Hotel, the cocktails, the baboons… it all just… worked. It was a glorious, imperfect, unforgettable moment. And honestly, that made the whole tripUrban Elephant: Cape Town's BEST Kept Secret (Bree St Gem!)

The Oasis Hotel Upington South Africa

The Oasis Hotel Upington South Africa

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