With airlines still flying half of their capacity, and many facing fundamental questions over their futures, the pandemic may instead be pushing a revival of creative holiday making nearer to home, with potentially huge benefits for crisis hit local economies.
The reduction in travel during the pandemic and people’s willingness to find simple pleasures closer to home bode well for the ‘staycation’ – holidaying at home or in the home country – and for reducing carbon emissions.
1. Start planning
Like every holiday a good staycation needs a plan.
2. Find things to do and see within a 50 mile radius of where you live and take day trips.
Instead of having to pack a suitcase, a simple picnic lunch will do. You may discover places or activities you didn’t even know existed before, such as scenic bike rides, nature walks, or lakes perfect for swimming.
3. Get out into nature by visiting a state or national park nearby to hike or camp a night or two.
If hiking is an option, try exploring some place within a 30 minute drive from your home. Hiking or just going for a walk is a great way to explore, enjoy nature, get some fresh air and relax. Don’t forget your camera!
4. Take the time to dive into a hobby that interests you.
Go buy needed supplies, read or watch tutorials now that you have the time, and spend hours just enjoying the craft.
5. Take a scenic bike ride.
Hop on a local bike trail or bring your bike to a nearby waterfront or park. The combination of fresh air, nature and exercise will be invigorating and relaxing at the same time.
6. Take a class.
Try something new and expand your horizons, whether it’s a dance class, a pottery class or a cooking class. Your city may even offer free classes at local community centers.
7. Use your credit card or grocery store reward points to fund part of your vacation.
If you don’t have enough points for a plane ticket to go somewhere, you may have enough for free movie passes, free restaurant gift cards or free admission to local attractions or attractions in a nearby city.
8. If you’re up for an adventure, try camping for free along a lake or river somewhere off the beaten track.
Whatever you decide to do during your staycation, remember to rest, enjoy, and rejuvenate!
