The rising cost of living, the uncertainty of the global situation, and the impact of the high cost of travel have made many people rethink their holiday plans this year. Instead of flying to exotic destinations or splurging on luxury resorts, more and more travelers are opting for staying closer to home and discovering the hidden gems in their own backyard. This is a trend started during the pandemic that show no sign of slowing down.
Traveling at home can be a great way to save money, support local businesses, and appreciate the beauty and diversity of your own region. You don’t need to go far to have a memorable and meaningful experience. You just need to look at your surroundings with a fresh and curious perspective, and be open to new adventures.
Do your research
Just because you live in a place doesn’t mean you know everything about it. There may be some attractions, events, or activities that you have never heard of or tried before. You may also find some hidden gems that are off the beaten path or some local secrets that are not in the guidebooks.
To find out what your hometown and region have to offer, you can do some online research, using platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, or Google Earth to get some inspiration. You can also read some travel blogs, watch some travel shows, or listen to some travel podcasts to get some ideas. For example, you can check out this article that lists 20+ ways to travel from home, or this podcast that features stories from travelers who explored their own countries.
You can also ask your friends, family, or neighbors for some recommendations, or visit your local tourist information center to get some brochures, maps, or coupons. You may be surprised by how much there is to see and do in your own area.
“I always wanted to visit Europe, but due to the pandemic and the inflation, I decided to stay in Canada and explore my own province of Ontario. I was amazed by how much there is to see and do here. I visited some charming towns, such as Niagara-on-the-Lake, Stratford, and Kingston. I saw some stunning landscapes, such as Niagara Falls, Algonquin Park, and Thousand Islands. I also enjoyed some delicious food, such as wine, cheese, and maple syrup. I had a wonderful time and I felt like I was in a different country.” – Sarah, 35, Toronto
Plan your itinerary
Once you have done your research, you can plan your itinerary according to your interests, budget, and time. You can choose to focus on one theme, such as history, culture, nature, or food, or mix and match different aspects of your region. You can also decide whether you want to stay in one place or visit multiple destinations, and whether you want to travel by car, bike, public transport, or foot.
You can also be flexible and spontaneous, and leave some room for surprises and detours. You don’t have to follow a strict schedule or stick to a predetermined route. You can explore at your own pace and follow your own curiosity. You can also be adventurous and try something new, such as a new activity, a new cuisine, or a new accommodation option.
For example, you can try camping in your backyard, glamping in a nearby park, or staying in a local Airbnb. You can also try some local delicacies, such as street food, farmers’ market produce, or regional specialties. You can also try some local activities, such as hiking, biking, kayaking, or fishing.
Enjoy the experience
The most important thing about traveling at home is to enjoy the experience and have fun. You don’t have to compare your trip to other people’s trips or feel like you are missing out on something. You don’t have to worry about the logistics, the language, or the culture. You don’t have to stress about the money, the safety, or the weather.
You can just relax and appreciate the beauty and diversity of your own region. You can learn more about its history, culture, and people. You can connect with nature and yourself. You can create some lasting memories and stories to share.
“I live in Orange County, CA, which is a nice place, but I always wanted to see more of the world. However, due to the economic situation and the travel restrictions, I decided to travel at home and discover more of my own state. I was impressed by how diverse and fun it is. I visited some of the most popular places, such as Redondo Beach, Hollywood, and Buena Vista. I also experienced some of the most diverse and tasty cuisines, such as Mexican, Thai, and Vietnamese.” – David, 32, Orange County
Traveling at home can be a rewarding and enriching experience that can satisfy your travel cravings and make you appreciate your own region more. So don’t let the inflation and the economy stop you from having a great holiday. You can travel at home and have the time of your life.
