Summer has arrived and this is typically the time when most of us would be gearing up for summer holidays. But this year is certainly a bit different for all of us. With the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, travel was restricted and borders were closed throughout most of the world. Even as we see travel restrictions being lifted and businesses beginning to open, there is still uncertainty about health and safety concerning the virus. However, this doesn’t mean that summer is canceled and we would like to explore just a few ways to enjoy a great summer holiday right at home!
Like any holiday, a holiday at home also requires a plan. If you want to really make it a holiday, you first need a strategy to avoid falling into your normal routines. When in your home environment, it’s all too easy to slip back into habits of checking work emails or doing house chores. A holiday is about relaxing and recharging, so formulating a plan for your home holiday is key. Give it some thought and discuss it with your family or holiday partners to make the most of your vacation.
Just Chill
Don’t be afraid to simply relax with your time off. A low-key vacation can still be a chance to refresh your mind and your body. Read some books, watch some movies, and keep cool in your air-conditioned home. Getting some rest may be just what you need to bounce back after your holiday. You may even find time to discover something you’ve never learned before.
Give your taste buds an adventure by cooking new dishes and new flavors
Unleash Your Inner Chef
If you’ve been on social media over the past few months, you’ve probably noticed a surge in content from people who have suddenly become home cooks due to the pandemic. Being stuck at home allows you to discover new tastes and new skills. You may also discover an exciting challenge that you can enjoy with your family. The payoff of a delicious meal also makes cooking new things even more gratifying. From blogs to YouTube videos, there are plenty of resources to help a beginner get started or an experienced cook refine their skills. Explore new ingredients and expand your palate.
Unplug for a While
From TVs to smartphones, everywhere you look there is an endless barrage of screens to occupy our time and our minds. To make the most of your time with loved ones, try disconnecting from your TV and devices for a few hours each day or even for a few days straight. This will be difficult and awkward at first, but you may find new interests and learn more about those around you. Planning ‘unplugged’ games and events together can also improve how you interact.
Make your hometown a tourist destination and learn new things about where you live
Become a Tourist in Your Hometown
The obvious option for staying home is to explore your hometown and the surrounding area. While jumping on a plane and soaring to exotic locations isn’t a realistic option, doing some research and discovering something new in your hometown can be an adventure in its own right. It’s easy to skip exploring entertaining or historical attractions and landmarks in your hometown. Finding an attraction that is in an open space and that won’t be crowded may be a challenge, but when you find it, you may learn something new about the very place you live. Exploring nature in the vicinity of your town can also give you a new appreciation for your area and offers a chance to enjoy time with family.
In the end, we all need time off from work and busy schedules to unwind. Just because you might be limited to your home, doesn’t mean you have to give up on a holiday. Not only will you discover new things in your own backyard, but you will also save on expensive flights and hotels. Turn your own home into a holiday destination and make this summer vacation as good as any!
