Staycation inspiration

Staycations have always existed, but they’ve only stepped into the spotlight since Covid-19 created a greater need for creative getaways. 

By definition, a staycation is a vacation that’s spent exploring your own city and surrounds. The pros are obvious: fewer hassles, fewer travel restrictions and cheaper costs.

So, if cabin fever has set in and you need an easy, affordable change of scenery, why not explore some of the options below or come up with fun alternatives of your own.

1. Go camping – even if it means in your own backyard!
2. Set up an outdoor cinema – If sleeping under the stars isn’t for you, perhaps a moonlit movie night will do?
3. Get back to nature – at a local park, botanical garden or game reserve. Lie on the grass, hug a tree, walk the trails, admire the wildlife…
4. Spend a day at the beach – and soak in the magic trio of sand, sun and sea.
5. Sightsee in your own city – Book an open bus tour, visit art galleries and museums, shop at local markets, dine at neighbourhood delis…
6. Visit a winery or arrange a wine tasting at home – and savour it!
7. Book a night away – Treat yourself to a hotel experience and relish not having to do anything! Alternatively, rent accommodation on Airbnb.
8. Enjoy a spa day – or pamper yourself at home.
9. Arrange a games night, puzzle evening or craft session with friends – and enjoy fun and laughter!
10. Explore another culture – Choose as a foreign country as your theme for the day and let that dictate the food you eat, music you listen to and movies you watch.
11. Relax over a picnic – aim for somewhere scenic.
12. Try geocaching – Download an app and have fun trying to find as many hidden treasures in your area as you can.
13. Take a class – because learning new things is always fun!    
14. Practice R&R – Life is such a rush, so give yourself the gift of time to sleep, watch TV, read books … and repeat.
15. Unplug – from all devices for the weekend and see the difference it makes.