Whether through lack of affordability or lack of forward planning, you need not miss out on that holiday vibe while you stay at home over the holidays.
Here are some ideas to have you exploring your local community like a tourist or achieving that feeling of restoration that a holiday can bring.
Drop a pin and go exploring
Take a look at the map, draw a circle around your location according to how far you’re willing to travel. Randomly select a town and do some research. Look at reviews for their best cafe, restaurant, museum, vineyards, local produce farms open to the public, shopping precinct or local attractions and create your itinerary. Three things to explore should be enough to keep you entertained on your day trip.
Delight the senses
Most cities or major towns will have a hotel or cafe that serves high tea. Choose a friend or friends, family members or anyone who could do with a treat and head out for some delicate self indulgence. Alternatively you could create the experience at home, treat yourself with cucumber sandwiches, Victoria Room Scones, baked treats and tea.
Some recipes to get the inspiration flowing: Devilled Eggs and Ribbon Sandwiches, Chicken & Tarragon Sandwiches and Strawberry Shortcake.
Cosy up
Are a pile of books staring at you waiting to be read? Get into a bath or a comfy spot in the sun either at home or in a park and delve in.
Is there a TV series you’ve been meaning to watch? Get comfortable, get your healthy treats out, invite some friends over and get acquainted.
Revisit films that make you feel good. Is there a particular actor or director you’re fond of? Perhaps there’s a film in their catalogue you haven’t seen or one that brings back great memories.
Get cultural
Most communities however big or small will have a creative scene, be that a gallery, workshop or public exhibition space. It shouldn’t take too much investigating to find out where you can see local art and craft, but if you need help your local council will know where to start.
Support local business
Within a relatively short distance you can usually find a farmers markets or fair falling on major holiday times, again your local council will know when and where these occur.
If you are close to a rural area there may be farms that open their gates to the public to sell their produce and in some cases you may be able to go picking yourself, think berry farms and orchards.