Covid-19 has indeed changed the way we live, work, travel and even breathe. It has ceased socialization, cancelled our travel arrangements, and has locked us inside the four walls of our residences. But for how long? With travel restrictions easing throughout the world, lockdowns lifting across the country, and hopes of a vaccine rising day after day, do we not deserve a break from the monotonous schedule we've been living in for the past 180 odd days?
An International vacation sounds exactly like what we need right now, but the planning, those long lines in immigration, utter disregard for social distancing and the costs involved in this time of economic slowdown. Is it all worth it? Is it worth going to a different country for a vacay when miles and miles of untapped, beautiful and breathtaking destinations are at our disposal, here in India, within a few hours of your home? Doesn't a STAYCATION make more sense in this time of uncertainty?
The location you choose is vital for your STAYCATION. It should meet your concerns like budget, accessibility, amenities and most of all, safety during these troubled times. If you stay in Mumbai - Lonavala, Igatpuri and Mahableshwar are the best bets. For Bangalore - Chikamangalur, Kabini and Bandipur offers a lot. Up north - Manali, Dharmshala and Dalhousie are idyllic.
Unplug - Turn off your distractions
No phone calls, no laptops, no electronics. Turning these devices off might not sound like a big deal, but it frees up time to appreciate nearby attractions, spend time with your near and dear ones, focus more on the moment and helps in embracing the experiences currently happening around you. This 'digital-detox' can have incredible positive effects on one's mental wellness.
Check out the local scene
Check out the 'best things to do' at your destination, check out the city guide, try out the local food, engross yourself in activities that the locals are involved in, visit local landmarks and points of interest. With a country this vast, you'll be surprised by the stunning landscapes the place has to offer.
Learn something new
Attend a workshop, learn yoga, teach yourself how to surf, read a book, and write about your experiences online. The possibilities are endless. Learning a new skill will refresh your mind, bring about a change in your tedious schedule and will make your vacation productive at the same time.
Savor it!
Savoring basically translates to feeling, enjoying and extending our positive experiences. It is widely regarded as the key to happiness. Switch your smartphone off, stop thinking about what the trip is costing you, and zero in on the quality moments which are unfolding in front of your eyes.
If you agree with what I have to say, here is my take on the 7 things you SHOULD be doing on a STAYCATION.
Live, behave and believe that you're on a vacation.
I cannot stress this enough. The fact that you're not a thousand miles away from home doesn't mean that it is not a vacation. Take some time off to spend time with your family and friends, relax, rejuvenate, and let your work and other professional commitments take a back seat for the next 3-4 days when you're on a STAYCATION.
Activities – A lot of them!
The whole point of a STAYCATION is change. If you follow the same routine which you did at home, it diminishes the objective of it. Plan treks, barbeques, games, yoga etc. Indulge in experiences which you would be unable to undertake while you're at home.
Plan your destination carefully
A vacation doesn't require exotic locations or sassy hotels to make it memorable. All it takes is a bunch of people you connect and relate to, may it be your friends or your family. And especially in these unsettling times, we all need to let off some steam.
Happy STAYCATIONING!
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