Exploring and holidaying locally can have numerous advantages
Local tourism is becoming a preferred option for travellers seeking to explore gems in their own backyards. The ever-increasing cost of international travel is a major factor driving more people to explore destinations closer to home. On the flip side, local travel tends to be more affordable by skipping the costs associated with currency exchange fees and visas.
Time constraints are another reason for the surge in local tourism. Not everyone has the luxury of taking extended vacations, especially when juggling work, family and other commitments. Long-haul travel often requires taking significant time off. But with local travel, even a long weekend can be enough to recharge and explore.
From outdoor adventures to cultural festivals, there’s so much to see locally that often goes unnoticed. Whether it’s a lesser-known hiking trail, a charming bed and breakfast or an off-the-beaten-path destination, local treasures create new travel experiences that rival those found abroad.
Travellers who opt for local destinations can help revive these communities by spending their money close to home. The influx of tourists in local areas boosts small businesses and creates jobs for residents. There’s also a growing sense of responsibility to support local economies. Travellers are choosing to spend their vacation money at local hotels, independent restaurants and community-based attractions.
Convenient and climate-friendly
Travelling locally offers unmatched flexibility and convenience. Planning an international trip often requires months of preparation, from securing passports and visas to co-ordinating flights, accommodations and itineraries. With local travel, you can bypass much of this hassle.
Local travel also gives you the flexibility to adapt your plans on the go. Packing light, skipping the airport and avoiding long customs lines makes local tourism not only more appealing but less stressful.
Social media has sparked a rise in local tourism. Travel influencers and bloggers have shifted their focus to showcasing nearby destinations, capturing stunning photos of local landscapes and promoting staycations. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have made it trendy to explore your own country and hashtags like #staycation and #localgetaway have gone viral.
In addition, the ‘slow travel’ movement, which emphasises immersive and thoughtful travel, has gained traction. This trend encourages people to spend more time in one place, engaging with the local culture and truly appreciating the environment.
As global concern for climate change grows, people are increasingly looking for ways to reduce their impact while still enjoying travel. Sustainable tourism is becoming a growing trend among eco-conscious travellers. Exploring nearby destinations means you can reduce the use of disposable plastics, limit energy consumption and support eco-friendly accommodations.
Text | Samuel Nassimov
Photography | Alexander Narraina
Samuel Nassimov is MD of Premier Hotels. For more information, go to premierhotels.co.za.
