Reasons to daydream
Staycation ideas for a post-pandemic world
Retirees love to travel. Beaches, cruises, adventures, tours — the industry used to be a favourite for those who have just shed the workweek from their lives.
The pandemic has halted recreational travel, however, and a gradual loosening of restrictions may follow in the coming months and into next year. But there will come a day when we can explore again — and while we wait, everyone deserves to daydream.
Staycations are an ideal option in a post-pandemic world: inprovince restrictions are likely to be lifted first; local travel is cheaper; and we support our fellow communities with tourism dollars.
When the time comes, consider all that Ontario has to offer in raw beauty and charismatic towns.
Day drives
Day drives are a refreshing break — drive early, explore the scenery, and arrive back home in the evening. And they can involve relatively little outside contact.
There are some “spots that aren’t very far away from Toronto, but they feel worlds away,” says Christopher James Mitchell, co-founder of UltimateOntario.com. After travelling the world and living abroad for years, Mitchell returned to Ontario and decided to explore his province with the same passion as a traveller — thus the website was born.
Port Stanley: “It feels like an escape, like a great place to go when the sun is shining,” Mitchell says. “They have a lighthouse; they have an extended pier that gives you a nice view of the whole town. It’s a great spot to go in the early morning, go down to the beach, get some sun, walk around the pier.”
Must-visit spots — if open to visitors — include Broderick’s Ice Cream, Quai Du Vin Estate Winery and the Port Stanley Terminal Rail.
Kingston: When the province confirms travel is safe, Kingston’s colourful culture and exquisite architecture is ready.
Megan Knott, executive director of Tourism Kingston, says the UNESCO-recognized city has scenic driving routes through the city and along the water, including the Fort Henry National Historic Site, the sprawling Queen’s University campus and beautiful conservation areas.
“You can travel along the water and there’s around 20 sites to take in safely from your car,” Knott says, “or safely stop for a few moments to see it in person, have a bite to eat and get back on the road.”
Downtown restaurants are offering storefront takeout service, she says, so visitors can pick up a meal and enjoy a picnic in one of many city parks.
Short stays
Kingston: When it’s safe to stay longer, Kingston’s plans for street life are already in the works, including a downtown promenade to allow shopping and dining with recommended distances.
“We’re constantly evolving,” Knott says. “We call ourselves ‘Kingston: Fresh Made Daily’ — you can’t experience the same thing twice in Kingston.”
Everything changes seasonally, from culinary offerings and wine selection, to various cityand nature-focused attractions. Knott says Kingston’s artisans provide one-of-a-kind keepsakes and experiences.
“We’re a city of makers and we’re very proud of that,” she says. “We try to keep the authenticity of Kingston by highlighting the people that make that ambience what it is.” Erieau to Chatham to Pelee Island: “My wife and I usually stop at a place called Erieau,” Mitchell says. “It’s a really interesting spot that has two bodies of water on either side — they have a little park, a really nice pier, a beach, right on Lake Erie. It’s just a strange little land mass that feels unique.”
Drive to Chatham and spend the night at the Retro Suites Hotel — a regional highlight, according to Mitchell. “It’s a remarkable spot,” he says. “I’ve never stayed in a hotel like that in Ontario.”
Up next? Pelee Island for two nights to explore the natural beauty and unique culture — and of course that famous wine. “The island is just something else,” Mitchell says. “Pelee Islanders are a whole different breed.”
Perth: Recent retirees might love an opportunity for “a romantic weekend away,” Mitchell says.
“I would strongly recommend staying at a bed and breakfast near Perth called Clyde Hall,” he says. “It’s amazing, run by a couple — they ran a famous bakery for a number of years. I’ve never eaten so well in my life.”
Mitchell describes Lanark County as “gorgeous” and says Perth and other nearby areas are idyllic places to explore. “I would argue Stewart Park (in Perth) is the crown jewel there.”
Before you go
Wait for lockdown to lift in Ontario. Before travelling anywhere: check provincial and local regulations; plan your stops and call ahead; consult your doctor; and pack protective and cleaning supplies.
Visit UltimateOntario.com or VisitKingston.ca for more information and ideas.