With many travel restrictions and social distancing measures still in place, summer will likely look a little different this year.
Even if staying close to home is in your plans, you don’t need to sacrifice all your summer adventures. There are many fun ways to be a tourist in your own backyard and community. You just need to adapt your regular plans to conform to the “new normal”.
Many events and festivals have been cancelled, but backyard celebrations are still possible… even if you are limited to your immediate family or your family bubble. Live performances can be replaced by bringing speakers or instruments out onto your patio; community barbeques can be swapped out for more intimate backyard meals; large fireworks displays can be replaced with sparklers.
Restrictions may also limit summer travel, so this year it may be necessary to spend your time exploring your own backyard and community. If you love getting outside, hiking different trails and searching for waterfalls is a fun idea. And if camping trips to far-off locations are not possible, backyard camping might be a suitable alternative. Grab the sleeping bags and marshmallows, gather around a firepit, and enjoy!
Indoor camping is enjoyable too. Search YouTube for a “fire” video to play on the TV, hang some twinkle lights, play some nature sounds, and fill the living room with blankets and pillows.
Virtual sightseeing offers another opportunity for exploration. For example, there are many online videos that let you visit different cities and tourist attractions without leaving the comfort of your home. Research your community and beyond, and see what adventures you can discover.
As COVID-19 rules and restrictions change (and loosen), new opportunities are opening up, so take advantage of what is being offered. Go for a walk on the beach, enjoy the sports that are available (golf, tennis and paddling were the first to become available in Nova Scotia), or pack a picnic to take to a park. I love the idea of grabbing some take out from a local business and finding a place in the community to eat outside. Grabbing ice cream cones and heading to the water is definitely on my family’s summer checklist.
In the past, my boys have even engaged in an “ice cream stand challenge,” where they challenge themselves to visit at least six different ice cream stands over the course of the summer. It’s a great way to explore our community, and nothing says “summer” like enjoying a cool treat.
Another fantastic activity that I’m excited about taking advantage of this summer is visiting a drive-in. I am hearing rumours that many communities are considering re-opening old drive-in theatres, and I think it’s a wonderful idea. I am anxious to share this nostalgic activity with my boys. I hope they enjoy it as much as I did when I was their age.
Summer fun is definitely not cancelled. There are delightful adventures to be had and memories to be made. We just need to stay closer to home and be a little creative!
