A successful staycation is within reach!

Are you familiar with the term "staycation"? This growing trend is all about enjoying your time off at home. As a staycationer, you can take full advantage of everything your city or town has to offer by taking day trips to local attractions. It's a great way to unwind and have fun while avoiding the stress of travel!

How to have the perfect staycation

Staycations can be short or long and take place in your hometown or neighbouring region. For an ideal holiday at home, it's important to be adventurous—but also organized! Below are a few helpful tips:

Disconnect

Whether you're taking off for a weekend or several weeks, make sure to activate your out-of-office email reply. Try to limit your screen time by taking a break from emails and social media accounts. It's tough to unplug, but we promise it's worth it!

Switch up your routine

Sleep in, read the magazines you've piled on your nightstand, or go to the spa for a day of relaxation. You can also play tourist and see your city in a whole new light. Have breakfast at a restaurant you've never been to, get dessert at a highly rated ice cream shop, or spend an afternoon at a popular bar. Take the time to explore all the local spots you've been dying to check out. You can even schedule a guided Greeter tour tailored to your interests. Want to learn more about your city's architecture, food culture, or history? Just ask!

Step out of your comfort zone

Sign up for activities that are out of the ordinary, like canoeing or kayaking down the Mauricie rivers, rock climbing on Mont Orford, or crossing the spectacular Canyon Sainte-Anne gorge. Discover Quebec's natural splendour. You won't need to travel far!

Be open to others

Speak with the people you meet and ask for recommendations. You might make some interesting discoveries. Many urban areas are wonderfully multicultural. Did you know that Rouyn-Noranda is the second most diverse city in Quebec? If you're from a big city, take the time to explore specific neighbourhoods with proud cultural heritages, like Montreal's Little Italy.

Attend local events

Take part in festivals and other local celebrations like the Saint-Sauveur arts festival, the Victoriaville food festival, or the Abitibi-Témiscamingue emerging music festival. If you'd rather avoid the crowds, invite your friends to a backyard barbecue or picnic in the park.

The benefits of vacationing at home

Staycations are becoming increasingly popular thanks to their countless advantages.

You contribute to the local economy

Every time you stop for breakfast or coffee at your corner café or shop at the boutiques that line your street, you're stimulating the local economy. Our regions and neighbourhoods offer so many great services. Why not take this opportunity to encourage them?

You have time for yourself

A staycation is also about taking care of yourself. We often get stuck in a rut and forget to take a moment for ourselves, whether it's to lounge in the sun, garden with the kids, or create a piece of art. Vacationing at home allows you to prioritize these small, personal projects that are often neglected due to a lack of time and money.

You can rediscover your surroundings

How many times have you heard about an incredible lookout or gorgeous beach that's only a stone's throw away? Quebec is home to a wide variety of terrains, from the Laurentian Mountains and Gaspé Peninsula forests to the secret beaches bordering the St. Lawrence River. You might be surprised by the natural gems in your area. Already familiar with the local landscape? Try looking at it with fresh eyes.

In short, vacationing at home is an affordable way to break free from your daily routine and create lasting memories. So, what are you waiting for? It's time to plan your staycation!