Vacationing at home or close to home is becoming an increasingly popular option for many Canadians. It’s also green. Either inadvertently or intentionally, Canadians are cutting their carbon footprint by choosing to take a staycation.
Travel is one of the biggest culprits for emissions. Of course, at times it may be necessary. But one area we do have a choice in is where we choose to spend our vacation time. Many are relaxing closer to home or in the comforts of their own dwelling, finding some very appealing reasons for doing so.
As mentioned, creating fewer emissions is one factor. A ‘stay – local’ ideology is gaining popularity with regards to shopping and with leisure activities as well. You may be hearing the word ‘staycation’ more and more, and find people turn their heads when you mention it, some, no doubt, with hungry looks, thinking they heard ‘steak’. Others, it seems, are surprised by the term and all that it denotes. Could you actually have a vacation without purchasing an airline ticket and taking off for the far corners of the earth? Food for thought, for sure.
Another factor in the rise of the ‘staycation age’ is soaring fuel costs and other travel related expenses. These can really pose a financial burden on individuals and families. An average family vacation for four people can put $5000 on your credit card, making the vacation not so hot in hindsight.
The stresses and headaches that accompany traveling great distances may make a relaxing staycation look more enticing. In fact, if you are a believer in the fundamental reason for vacations – to relax and be refreshed – a staycation would be a perfect fit for you. With the commodity of time untouched by long lineups and travel delays, leisure time to cultivate your garden or enjoy your backyard hammock can turn you into a new person when you finally head back to work. No, you won’t need a vacation to recover from a staycation.
Some vacationers are looking for adventure, or new experiences, and feel that this leaves their local area out of the question. But just what is in your own neighborhood that you’ve never had time to explore? You may be pleasantly surprised to learn that there are many new and interesting things to see and do right in your locale. In Canada, we usually do not have to go far outside of the urban areas in which we may live to discover nature at its best. A staycation can provide you the opportunity to explore the beautiful provincial or national parks and heritage sites right in your own backyard. Hiking, camping and all kinds of other outdoor activities are waiting for you. As well, in urban areas, there are many attractions and events that can create great memories if you get out and get involved. In some cities, local public libraries even have a limited number of free passes for places such as museums, zoos and theme parks.
So, whether you find yourself in some quaint local pub you’ve never visited before, or some high rocky terrain overlooking a pristine lake, or even under your own backyard tree, you’ll be happy to know you’re not far from home. This is where you belong!
