We all have to admit: the world looks very different right now, and it’s exhausting. Considering the current state of the economy, the commotion of an election year, and continuing coronavirus-related separation between some people and their loved ones, this is a time when nearly everyone deserves to take at least a weekend getaway.
That’s right. Despite everything going on, it’s time to talk vacation.
But today’s travel isn’t the same as before.
In fact, travel in the age of COVID-19 often doesn’t involve traveling at all. Instead, many are embracing the restorative benefits of staycations—vacations at home. They’re still taking some time off to relax and reboot, but all from the comfort of their own house or city.
Good news: we have some staycation ideas for you, as well as some thoughts on how to brand staycation culture for your potential customers. And we’d be remiss if we didn’t talk about how our favorite artistic medium—video—contributes to this new wave of staycationers and consumers. So read on to find out some suggestions for fun, beautiful experiences everyone can enjoy while staying safe and healthy at home.
1. Check out virtual Disneyland
It’s the happiest place on earth, right? And we all need a bit of cheer at a time like this!
Pop on your Mickey ears and take a virtual ride on Disneyland attractions—it’ll give you some inspiration while you dream about the fantastical times to come. And while you wait, we figure it’s best to create some magical moments at home.
2. Spend one day in your dream city
Samsung XR has launched a fully online library of “One Day In” videos, where they allow users to explore different culturally significant cities in 360 degrees while listening to informative narration. These videos are fully interactive and immersive, allowing you to take a breezy trip while relaxing with the device of your choice. There are even some other types of 360-degree videos hosted on the site. Check them out!
3. Work somewhere else
Can’t take time off? Might as well quarantine in a tropical paradise!
It’s a unique type of safe vacation—and it’s by far the most adventurous suggestion on this list—but it’s not unheard of. Barbados is now offering a special 12-month work visa for visitors who want to keep working remotely and safely from the lush island country. If you’re set up for it, we think there’s nothing quite as tempting as being able to sign off at 5:00 and run dip your toes into some sand.
4. Taste what’s out there
There are lots of ways to try international foods from home these days. Get a taste for adventure with subscription boxes like Try the World and ship-to-home stores like World Market. After all, tastes and smells have the power to transport us. We think a smorgasbord from another country, combined with a gorgeous foreign film or game, could make for a “travel” day like no other.
5. Kayak anywhere
Vacation booking giant Kayak is offering new Virtual Vacation experiences for visitors to their site, many of them full-day guides to entire cities and significant spots. Guides include fun activities like location-inspired recipes, playlists, and 360-degree videos. You can even enhance some of the video experiences with a VR headset!
There are lots of ways that today’s brands can help others relax and regroup.
Once you’ve taken your break and recharged, you might be thinking once again about how best to promote your brand. There are lots of ways that today’s brands can help others relax and regroup, from encouraging them towards self-care and relaxation to showing them new ways to capture positive moments.
Whether they’re looking for ways to shop from home or improve their home, there are a lot of people whose lives now revolve around home more than ever before. Keep your messaging and media focused on the same—but don’t forget to kick back and relax!
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