In a world that’s constantly urging us to explore far-off destinations, it’s easy to overlook the charm and beauty of what’s right at our doorstep. Staycations—those moments when we choose to slow down and explore our own backyard—can be just as fulfilling as traveling abroad. This week, I had the pleasure of spending two days and nights with my daughter in Prince Edward County, and it reminded me of the rich experiences that can be found closer to home.
The Magic of a Familiar Place
Prince Edward County has always held a special place in my heart. I first visited in 2015 to film a web series with the support of Destination Ontario, and since then, it has been a regular retreat. Each time I return, I’m captivated by how much more there is to discover. This week, I stayed at a dear friend’s cozy AirBNB located in Wellington, right on the pedestrian-friendly Main Street. My friend, who has been an AirBNB host for just over a year, moved to the county a couple of years ago, and she loves it. Though she’s settled in a tourist hotspot, hosting friends allows her to see her surroundings through new eyes—playing tourist in her own backyard.
This experience highlighted an important lesson for me: sometimes, the most meaningful adventures happen in familiar places. We often associate vacation with crossing borders, but rediscovering places we’ve been to before can offer new perspectives. The slower pace allows for a deeper connection to the environment, and I felt that during my relaxed strolls down Wellington’s charming streets.
Playing Host in Your Own City
Hosting friends and family in my own city, Toronto, is another form of staycation that I cherish. There’s something so special about showing off the multicultural essence of the city—taking visitors to the vibrant Kensington Market, exploring the eclectic food scenes in Little Italy or Chinatown, or spending a day by our beautiful waterfront. It allows me to experience Toronto through the eyes of someone new to the city, and I love being able to share my favorite spots.
Staycations aren’t just about staying home but about engaging with your surroundings in a way you might not when going about your daily routine. When hosting, I see Toronto from a fresh angle and fall in love with its unique blend of urban energy and natural beauty all over again. This is the essence of a staycation—finding new reasons to appreciate where you live.
Finding Balance in Simple Pleasures
During my time in Prince Edward County, I kept things laid-back. It was a pedestrian adventure—walking through Wellington’s streets, stopping at quaint restaurants, cafes, and clothing shops. I wasn’t looking for big attractions; instead, I embraced the simple pleasures of being in a small town. What I’ve come to realize is that staycations don’t need to be packed with activities to be enjoyable. In fact, the simplicity of walking out the front door and discovering local gems can be incredibly rewarding.
Whether it’s enjoying an afternoon coffee at a local café or browsing through a bookstore, the slower pace of a staycation allows you to savor the moment. It’s about taking a break from the fast-paced nature of life and finding joy in the everyday. For me, this visit to Prince Edward County was a reminder that you don’t always need to travel far to find peace, beauty, and adventure.
As you embark on your travels, remember that our journey leaves an impact. Embrace eco-friendly accommodations, support local communities, and reduce plastic use. Respect wildlife by observing from afar and conserve resources like water and energy. Choose sustainable transportation, leave no trace behind, and participate in conservation efforts. Educate yourself and others about the environment you’re exploring. Let’s ensure that we tread lightly on our planet, leaving only footprints of kindness and taking home memories that inspire others to protect our beautiful world. Happy responsible travels!