People across the country have been exploring the Great British Isles, and all it has to offer, more than ever before.
It seems staycations are well and truly here to stay for the British public, who have not only discovered the beauty of this country but also welcome a way to spend less money whilst also having a great holiday.
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, shares four reasons why the Isle of Wight is the perfect staycation this year
- Last-minute deals
One of the great benefits of going on a staycation is the ability to book a last-minute deal, which is not only a bargain, but also allows you to enjoy somewhere new and local! Visit Isle of Wight covers last minute deals for tourists, whether you’re looking to explore Cowes, Ventnor, Sandown or anywhere else.
- That ‘going aboard’ feeling (passport free!)
Travelling for anyone can be stressful. One of the great benefits of a staycation is the opportunity to feel like you’ve really gone somewhere else, whilst being only a short journey from home and saving money on travel. The Isle of Wight is especially perfect for a staycation, as the 1-hour Red Funnel vehicle ferry crossing via Southampton really gives you that ‘going abroad’ feeling – only without the need for a passport or the stress of airport security and baggage collection!
- Something free for everyone
It’s all too easy to get a bit too ‘spend happy’ on holiday which is why it’s great to explore attractions which offer free days or passes. On the Isle of Wight there are scores of free things to do, from exploring the over 20 different beachesacross the Island, hiking near the Needles or even feeding the Donkeys at the Isle of Wight Donkey Sanctuary!
- Less driving around
Conveniently, the Island is just 23 miles from west to east, and 13 miles from north to south, meaning you usually have no more than an hour’s drive between any two points. If you take the time to plan an efficient route, you’ll find that one of the massive benefits of vacationing on the Island is not having to spend much time in the car going from point A to B to C and so on. Less time in the car equals more time to really enjoy the wide range of attractions and beauty spots – and isn’t that what a holiday is all about?
“At Red Funnel, we have seen day trips increase by an astounding 58.8% – a trend which we expect to continue throughout the autumn period. With only a short 30-minute journey across to the Island and over 50 different attractions and locations to visit, the Isle of Wight is an ideal location for a cheaper holiday where you will still get that exotic feeling,” Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel.
Wellbeing
We all know that enjoying nature and spending time outdoors can boost our health and wellbeing, as being active is good for both mental and physical health.
Walking is a great way to get out and get active. It not only gets our bodies moving, but gives us the opportunity to chat to others, to explore our communities and most importantly, it makes us feel good!
Fran Collins, CEO of Red Funnel, shares the five reasons why taking regular UK breaks is the best way to take care of your wellbeing.
Visit somewhere new and find ways to enjoy to great outdoors
Heading outside into the fresh air and going somewhere new is sometimes what we need to boost our wellbeing – being in nature is such an enjoyable opportunity to experience something new and exciting! The Isle of Wight is a haven for hikers, walkers & wanderers alike.
Nature Makes You Feel Good
Spending time enjoying nature has been pinned as one of the most enlightening and revitalising forms of self-care, and it couldn’t be easier to incorporate this into your UK travel plans for 2022.
Travelling is Self-Care
Travel as self-care is a lifestyle shift that is here to stay. The Isle of Wight is one of the most sought-after destinations for those looking for a peaceful and revitalising UK break. Spanning just 13 miles north to south and 27 miles from east to west, the Island, recently crowned a UNESCO Biosphere, offers a stunning array of breath-taking scenery and contrasting landscapes perfect for restoring the soul.
A Chance to Recover
We are all guilty of unhealthy habits in our day-to-day life at home. Going away gives us a chance to look away from our screens and focus on the beauty of what is right in front of us – whether that’s friends, family or just the great outdoors! And speaking of beauty, over half of the Isle of Wight is designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty – another tick in the box for why the Island offers such a perfect backdrop for a quick getaway.
Come Rain or Shine
Leaving the house and exposing yourself to the elements has hugely beneficial consequences. Getting out in the sun can give your body that much-needed boost of Vitamin D – and with over 2,000 sunshine hours per year (one of the sunniest places in the UK) – the Isle of Wight really is a top choice for catching some rays. Let’s face it though, there’s always a possibility we can experience rain during a staycation, but we love it! In fact, walking in the rain has been proven to have a positive effect on your mental and physical health.
A Sight of the Sea
Just a glimpse of the sea can instantly make you feel more relaxed and less stressed. We’re a small island surrounded by the blue stuff, so take every opportunity you can to take it all in. Provided the weather is favourable, try travelling on Red Funnel’s vehicle ferry and take to the outer deck for most of your 1-hour crossing over the Solent. Treat yourself to sights of the sea from the very beginning to the very end of your trip. Your senses will thank you!