In a world that constantly nudges us toward far-flung adventures—airplane selfies, bucket-list destinations, and exotic itineraries—it’s easy to overlook the everyday magic that exists right outside our doors. But sometimes, the most meaningful journeys are the ones that require no passport at all. Staycations—those slow, intentional getaways in our own cities or neighbouring regions—are not only sustainable but also deeply grounding.
Recently, I had the joy of spending two restful nights with my daughter in Prince Edward County. Our base? A beautifully curated Airbnb in the heart of Wellington called Zoe’s County Escape. It is nestled right on the pedestrian-friendly Main Street. What unfolded was a heartfelt reminder of how familiar landscapes can surprise you, and how slowing down invites you to fall back in love with where you are.
The Heart of Home Away from Home: A Stay in Wellington
The Airbnb we stayed in wasn’t just a place to rest—it was an experience in itself. Lovingly restored and thoughtfully designed, the home belongs to a dear friend who relocated to “The County” a couple of years ago. She opened her doors to travellers over a year ago, and in doing so, reawakened her own sense of wonder about the place she now calls home.
Located in the very walkable core of Wellington, this stylish Airbnb offers the perfect mix of comfort, charm, and connection to the community. From the moment you step inside, there’s a sense of ease—natural light streams through the windows, local art adorns the walls, and everything from the linens to the kitchenware feels carefully chosen. It’s not just a rental; it’s a warm invitation to slow down and settle in.
There’s a quiet luxury to this kind of hospitality—one that’s not about extravagance, but about feeling held. Whether you’re enjoying a slow morning coffee or tea on the front porch or reading a book while the town hums softly outside, every moment here encourages you to be present.
The Magic of a Familiar Place
Prince Edward County has long held a special place in my heart. My first visit dates back to 2015 when I came to film a web series with support from Destination Ontario. Since then, it’s become a retreat I return to again and again. And yet, each time, it offers something new.
This visit felt different—richer somehow. Maybe it was the slower rhythm or the fact that I wasn’t chasing a list of things to do. With my daughter by my side, we wandered Wellington’s streets with no agenda other than to savour the moment. There’s a beautiful intimacy that comes from experiencing a destination through stillness.
The slower pace invited conversations, daydreams, and laughter. It reminded me that the most meaningful adventures often happen when we’re not rushing to the next photo op or Google-pinned spot. Sometimes, simply walking down a small-town street with someone you love is all the adventure you need.
Being a Tourist Where You Live
Hosting guests in my own city—Toronto—has taught me something important: there’s a unique joy in showing off your hometown. Taking loved ones through Kensington Market, introducing them to the best dumplings in Chinatown, or soaking up the sun by Lake Ontario… it always offers fresh perspective. I begin to see the city through their eyes, and in turn, I reconnect with my own sense of place.
That’s the real beauty of a staycation. It shifts your focus from “getting away” to “leaning in.” Leaning into your community. Into your routines. Into the parts of your region that you take for granted.
When my friend in Wellington welcomes Airbnb guests, she often tells me how their reactions—excited, curious, delighted—help her rediscover what she first fell in love with. Hosting, in a way, becomes a form of travel. It brings the world to your doorstep while grounding you more deeply in home.
Finding Balance in Simple Pleasures
During our County escape, we let our days unfold naturally. Mornings started slowly with breakfast and chatter. Afternoons were for exploring—boutique shops, clothing stores, a cosy local café for a cappuccino and croissant. No tight schedules. No stress.
I’ve come to believe that staycations are a kind of medicine. They offer balance in a world that pushes for productivity. They remind us that we don’t always need big-ticket attractions to feel fulfilled. We just need a moment to breathe, a space to rest, and a place that reminds us who we are.
Tips for Planning a Soulful Staycation
Whether you live in the Greater Toronto Area or anywhere else in Canada, a mindful staycation can do wonders for your wellbeing. Here are a few gentle recommendations for planning your own:
- Pick a place that feels different, but not far. Prince Edward County is just over two hours from Toronto—a scenic drive that feels like a reset without the airport hassle.
- Choose accommodations that reflect the local spirit. Instead of big-box hotels, opt for locally owned Airbnbs or boutique inns. This one in Wellington is a perfect example of quiet elegance and warm hospitality.
- Walk whenever possible. Ditch the car once you arrive. Walking allows you to connect more intimately with a town’s personality.
- Support local. Eat at locally owned restaurants, browse independent shops, and talk to the people who live there. Every dollar spent helps strengthen the local economy.
- Unplug a little. Even if you’re close to home, treat your staycation like a true getaway. Turn off email notifications. Let yourself unwind.
The Takeaway: Staycations Are Travel, Too
There’s an idea floating around that travel only “counts” if it involves jet lag, customs declarations, or passport stamps. But that’s simply not true. Travel is about expansion—and expansion can happen two hours from home, or even two blocks away.
My stay in Prince Edward County—particularly at my friend’s thoughtful and beautifully maintained Airbnb—reminded me that escape doesn’t have to mean distance. Sometimes, it’s about deepening your relationship with the familiar. About seeing the beauty in your own backyard.
So next time you feel the itch to “get away,” consider staying close. Book that weekend in the nearby town you’ve always meant to explore. Pack light, walk often, and let the ordinary surprise you.
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!