EditorsBorn out of an economic crisis back in 2008, it’s no wonder that recent events have served to fuel the “staycation” trend. Whilst some people are still planning to hop on the next plane to somewhere hot, there are a surprising number of people choosing staycations over international travel. The reason: eco-friendly tourism. An eco-friendly staycation is an green way of spending a vacation close to your home. Aside from less pollution, staycations give some of the world’s tourist hotspots a break from relentless visitors in peak seasons.
What’s driven the demand for staycations?
According to research, Google has seen a 500% increase in searches for Staycations in the last year due to Covid-19. However, now that international travel is allowed once more, it’s interesting that staycation bookings in 2021 have still jumped by 300%.
One of the reasons behind the exponential growth in popularity for staycations is sustainability. Put simply – the younger generation is more eco-aware. Nowadays luxury accommodation and affordable rates are no longer enough, with an estimated 87% of people wanting to travel sustainably. For most travelers, this means staying in eco-friendly or green accommodations and not travelling as far.
But how exactly can you make your staycations eco-friendly?
- Location, location, location
Firstly, think about the location. If you’re looking for a change of scenery, there’s no reason why you can’t do this closer to home. You can still get the feeling of being away and relaxing with a well-chosen staycation. Not only will you not have spent as long travelling, but you’ll also save money in the process, leaving more to splurge on eco-friendly accommodation. Which brings us nicely to our next point…
- Choose your accommodation wisely
As well as sticking closer to home, if you’re serious about sustainability, you should consider staying in an eco-friendly hotel. There are plenty of eco-friendly accommodation choices nowadays, so there’s no excuse not to choose sustainably. Once you’re there, if you can, forego towel service to keep it extra eco-friendly.
- Support local businesses
Whilst you’re on your staycation, consider ordering food from a local restaurant whilst taking a break from cooking duties. If you can, opt for a restaurant serving sustainably sourced food. Even better, why not give a local vegan or vegetarian restaurant a try?
- Stay central
If you’re booking a hotel, try to make sure it’s near to where you want to be. If you’re going to be travelling by car in and out of the centre, it almost defeats the object of going sustainable! Instead, try to choose accommodation that is within walking distance of where you want to be. If your hotel is a bit more remote than you’d have liked – then why not embrace it? Take in the rural beauty of the countryside and get fitter in the process, all whilst saving the planet.
Take advantage of all that the UK has to offer with a relaxing staycation. From staying local, to foregoing the turndown service – there are plenty of ways you can enjoy a relaxing getaway whilst keeping things sustainable. We hope you enjoy lovely and eco-friendly staycations this summer!
Also read:
This gorgeous Cornwall Spa Hotel is the wellness haven you’ve been looking for
Sun, spa and surf: How this Cornwall hotel reinvented itself in style
