With exchange rates plummeting and stresses of holidays abroad on your mind, join millions of other Britons in exploring and enjoying what our own country has to offer.
Our annual summer holiday is supposed to be a chance to relax, unwind and get away from the stresses of everyday life. But holiday stress can be all too real. Deciding where to go, where to stay, how to entertain both young and old alike, those long airport security queues – and that’s without factoring in the all important budget. Sometimes it’s best to keep it simple. And with so much to see and do right here on our doorstep, a staycation could be just what the family needs to enjoy a getaway without going away!
Camping
One of the biggest selling points of a camping holiday is that the actual act of camping itself is the main draw – that means, it doesn’t really matter so much where you do it. The fun of setting up camp, making a fire, leaving technology behind and getting in touch with nature is magical whether you’re pitching up in another country or tucked up in your sleeping bag in the back garden. For a list of nearly 100 campsites available in Devon, visit www.campsites.co.uk
Glamping
The rawness of nature with a bit of added glamour, glamping is for those that enjoy being in the outdoors but don’t want to leave behind the luxuries of modern life. It’s also the perfect way to create a real experience out of your break. Stay in a countryside yurt in the heart of the Blackdown Hills, unwind up high in a luxury treehouse with 3D cinema and private hot tub, or get cosy in an eco-cabin for a romantic getaway. Camping pods start from as little as £35 per night making the perfect middle ground between camping and a hotel. Many glamping sites include unique activities to pair with your stay to make for an adventurous break too! Pick from hundreds of glamping experiences online at www.goglamping.net
Airbnb
Airbnb is the latest way to stay when going away. With thousands of properties of varying types, shapes and sizes, and often much cheaper than a hotel, it’s a brilliant way to take more control over your staycation as you can stay in an entire property instead of just one room. It’s easy to book and the site has a very strict policy on minimum standards, meaning that if a host gets too many negative reviews, it will soon be removed. The pricing is transparent, and dealing with hosts is very straightforward. The hardest part is choosing from all of the enticing properties on the list! Waterfront apartments, private cabins, luxury caravans and cosy cottages are all up for grabs. Find out where you can stay at www.airbnb.co.uk
Spa Breaks
Immerse yourself in complete relaxation on a spa package weekend at one of many retreats around the country. Combine massage, aromatherapy and all kinds of wellness treatments with prosecco and afternoon tea for the perfect indulgent break with friends or your loved one – children are better off staying with the grandparents for this one. Find your perfect break at www.spabreaks.com
Day Trippin’
If money is tight, or you just like the creature comforts of your own home, why not consider turning your summer holiday into a week of exciting days out? You’ll make massive savings by not having to pay for accommodation and you won’t have to worry about forgetting to pack your favourite shirt. The key to staying at home is ensuring you’ve done some groundwork beforehand – make sure your house is tidy and clear of clutter, ditch the TV and add some relaxing music for when you’re back at home, and maybe even indulge yourself in some luxury hotel-like amenities to make your home stay a bit more special. Then, when you’ve got the home part sorted, you can focus on setting an itinerary of events and activities – why not try a new sport, visit that attraction you’ve always wanted to experience and treat everyone to a delicious meal, either at home or away.
Words: Jake Tucker
