Covid-19 has forced us all to rethink plans for holidays amid lockdowns and travel bans, as well as fear and uncertainty.
With fresh hope with the roll out of vaccines, search trends have shown a huge rise in the popularity of ‘staycations’ among residents seeking a much needed holiday.
Instead of jetting off on a plane to faraway climes, UK holidaymakers are opting to explore the wonders of home instead; with its pictureseque towns and villages, vast golden beaches and breath-taking clifftops, dense woodlands and vast open countryside.
But what other benefits are there to choosing a UK staycation over a sun-soaked trip abroad?
Destinations that rely heavily on tourism have taken a massive hit during the pandemic, and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. But, as and when restrictions are eased, surely ploughing money back into our own economy can only be a good thing?
Local businesses are the backbone of our economy and research shows that for every £10 spent in a local independent shop, restaurant or café, means up to an additional £50 goes back into our local economy.
Embarking on a staycation instead of heading off abroad means we are backing our own UK economy and supporting businesses that have managed to survive the crisis so far, to get back on track.
Cornwall is a fantastic example of a county with gorgeous towns and villages with hundreds of independent businesses, from art galleries and unique gift shops, to cafes and restaurants, where we can spend our well-earned pennies.
And, by buying fresh produce from local farm shops to enjoy whilst on holiday, not only are we supporting the shop itself, but regional farmers and producers too.
In recent years there’s been a seismic shift in people becoming more eco-friendly, whether it’s boosting the amount of waste they recycle or attempting to cut energy usage at home.
Another way people can become a better friend to the planet is opting to holiday closer to home rather than jetting off abroad and, in so doing, vastly cutting their carbon footprint.
A staycation is not only great for a summer holiday but is perfect for shorter breaks too. A weekend get-away can be factored into your calendar all year round for a much needed last-minute change of scenery and some spectacular walks, such as The South West Coast Path.
Skipping international travel means you avoid the stress of airport customs, huge queues and juggling heavy luggage and, on top of that, there’s no time difference or jet lag to contend with!
Travelling less means more quality time with the family, less planning and no awkward language barriers when attempts at mastering the lingo get ‘lost in translation’.
And, if elderly relatives are a consideration, holidaying in the UK also means you’re closer to home for that last minute dash back should there be an emergency.
Staying on home soil enables you to explore and experience the many treasures this country has to offer.
From peaceful coastal walks and picture postcard villages, to Heritage sites and areas of Outstanding Beauty, this country has the lot.
Whether you prefer a bustling city with coffee shops, galleries, tourist attractions and shops, or exploring quieter more secluded beach coves and ragged cliff tops, you don’t have to travel far to enjoy a blissful escape.
The other great thing about holidaying at home is that Instead of the expense and upset of leaving them behind in a boarding kennel for days on end, your four-legged friend can join in the fun.
Increasing numbers of self-catering cottages, B&Bs, hotels and lodges are wising up to the attractions of having pet friendly accommodation, but do your research first as ‘pet friendly’ doesn’t always mean ‘welcome’.
Just four minutes’ walk from the beach at Widemouth Bay, Gwelmor is a luxurious, self-catering holiday cottage which sleeps six (plus travel cot).
Our property welcomes three dogs and has a host of provisions to make your dog's stay as relaxing as yours.
Gwelmor was named the South West’s Best Dog Friendly Business of the Year 2021/2022 and won Gold at the Cornwall Tourism Awards 2021/2022.
Why not take our virtual tour below and book your stay today!
