Infographic: 2021: The Year of the Staycation
Last year, most people cancelled their summer travel plans. While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says that people who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 can travel at low risk to themselves, caution is still advised until a large majority of the population has received the vaccine. One thing’s for sure: For our mental health, it helps so much to take a break and recharge our emotional batteries! Here are some ways to do that without venturing far from home.
Evolving travel advisories call for flexibility. Be sure to follow the advice of your doctor and public health officials as you make your plans.
2021: The Year of the Staycation
Maybe it’s time to enjoy a change of pace … in place!
DO YOUR HOMEWORK
Before you make any travel plans, learn the basics. Consider …
- Safe modes of transportation.
- Restrictions at your destination.
- Your vaccine status and risk factors.
- Your health care provider’s recommendations.
Remember: Conditions and restrictions may change at any time.
THINK LIKE A TOURIST
Most likely, a local vacation is the safest. Pretend you’re from out of town! Check out …
- Museums and other places of interest.
- Local eateries (takeout or safe seating).
- A vacation rental.
- A daylong road trip.
Remember: Some attractions may be more crowded than usual.
GET OUTDOORS
The weather’s great, and outdoor activities are safest. Why not …
- Go for a hike in a park.
- Spread out your beach blanket at a local lake or shore.
- Camp in the backyard.
- Take your garden to the next level.
Remember: Even outdoors, practice safe social distancing and masking as recommended.
GO VIRTUAL
This year, online opportunities have hugely expanded! Take some time off and …
- Visit a foreign country from home.
- Hold an online family reunion.
- Stream an opera, a play, or the latest movies.
- Curate your own music or film festival.
Remember: Provide tech support for older loved ones who might need some extra help.
UNPLUG
If you’re experiencing video fatigue from your smartphone and computer, take a break and …
- Turn off all your devices for a while—you can do it!
- Refresh your spirit with meditation or yoga.
- Go for a walk with no chance of interruption.
- Read a real book or play a board game.
Remember: Unplugging periodically helps us avoid burnout any time, not just on vacation.