After two months locked into our homes, socially distanced from family and friends, and – for city dwellers like me – disconnected from nature, sunshine and open space, it’s safe to say we all need a holiday.

Unfortunately, even as virus cases drop and restrictions are slowly eased, international travel is set to be one of the last things put back on the agenda, meaning we can kiss our fantasy foreign vacations goodbye for the foreseeable future.

However, this doesn’t mean no holidays at all. Before you pack away your bikinis and sunscreen, consider a ‘staycation’ this summer. Staycationing – otherwise known as holidaying in the country you live in instead of travelling abroad – is the hottest travel trend of the summer. And while it might not seem as exciting as that dream safari trip to Africa or shopping break to New York – its benefits are multiple.

Firstly, by staying in the Canaries you’ll be pouring much needed funds back into the local economy. The tourism sector has been one of the hardest hit by the global pandemic and supporting local hotels and facilities will help keep the economy afloat while the foreign travellers aren’t coming.

Secondly, the Canaries are amongst the top tourism destinations in the world already, with sun, sea, sand and nature aplenty, so it won’t be hard to find holiday-worthy destinations on home soil. And usually popular spots will be empty without the hordes of international visitors.

Environmentally speaking, avoiding air travel is one of the best ways to reduce our carbon emissions, so staycationing is also good for the planet. And finally, you’ll be doing your bit to help stop the spread of the virus.

And this year a collection of leading hotels across the islands are offering special discounts to locals and residents only. So, check out the list of participating hotels below and start planning your next adventure.

Fashionmscastro9 July 2020Hotel Suite Villa Maria, Hotel Tigotan, Hotel Santa Catalina, Hotel Gran Rey, Hotel Fuerteventura Palace