When an out-of-the-blue invitation to visit The President Hotel for their new season of Savanna Summer Movie Nights popped into my inbox, it was the perfect example of “not knowing what I needed until I got it”.
I mean, for most of this year the highlight of my week has been grocery shopping, and as we slowly and cautiously try to adapt to some sort of COVID-compliant life, finding the balance between fun and safety can be tricky to achieve. And, let me just say, that The President Hotel has nailed it.
Making the most of summer in Cape Town? Check. Allowing you to spend time with a close friend or partner? Check. Adhering to all socially distanced and hygiene protocols? Check.
View my reel on the experience in Instagram here.
Set around their beautiful pool area, with palm trees rustling in the breeze and sunset over the Atlantic – their movie nights take place over the next few Thursdays – and, trust me – it’s the evening you didn’t know you needed.
What you need to know
Tickets are R290 per person and include a bean bag, popcorn, whispers, headphone rental, gourmet picnic box and a Savanna. And if you fancy the VIP treatment, for R490 per person you get a reserved front row, lounge seat, headphone rental, popcorn, Lindt chocolates, Pongracz, Savanna and more. As an aside, it was my first time trying Savanna’s Angry Lemon, and might be my new favourite offering from them – even if I’m a little late to the party.
And, in case you’re wondering what picnic means – and if you’re going to have to stop for drive-through burgers on the way home: there is no way I could have finished the very generous picnic dinner that was provided (and, glancing at the couple sitting behind me, there were also plenty of leftovers from their side too). So, if you’re bringing a significant other with a large appetite, you’ll be just fine.
Doors open at 18h00 and the movie starts at 20h00. Here’s the schedule for the rest of the year – and, as seating is limited and socially-distanced, I would recommend booking your tickets ASAP.
26 November A Star is Born
03 December How Stella Got Her Groove Back
10 December Jerry Maguire
16 December Love Actually Christmas Special
View the movie night picnic menus in detail here. Book by calling 066 038 4521 or emailing events@presidenthotel.co.za.
Make a night of it
If you want to make a night of it – like I was lucky enough to do – the hotel is running a special where you can stay over on a movie night for R995 per sea view room – including breakfast for two and a room upgrade. Because, let’s be honest, falling asleep to the sound of waves and a gentle sea breeze is the only way this evening is going to get any better.
I enjoyed my evening as a guest of The President Hotel. All views are my own.
What do you think?