For as long as I can remember I have had the Travel Bug, my Dad calls this my “itchy feet” since I could never stand still. I loved going on road trips and vacation getaways with my family as a child, then exploring on my own as I got older. I was excited to get my Passport so I could travel to distant lands and experience the World!
After two trips outside the United States I realized that my hometown of Phoenix, Arizona was an exotic location for many people. The locals that I was visiting were just as fascinated by USD currency, desert climate, and the “wild, wild, west” as I was with their home. Some of my new British friends even made the trek out to Phoenix to see for themselves. Treating my home as base camp, we explored my neighborhood through tourist eyes. And I discovered treasure in my own backyard!
Why Local Travel?
Local travel is a great getaway option when time and money are limited.
Local travel, by definition, requires little to no travel time, zero hotel expenses, and light packing!
Get into Travel Mode
Is there something unique or natural wonders in your area that tourists travel to see? Have you been lately? Maybe it is time to see what draws people from far away to your area.
Have you been to the local museum or art galleries lately? Consider all of the activities that you do while on vacation or traveling someplace new, and look for those types of activities in your local vicinity.
Exploring in your own back yard is easier to bring pets (my dog loves road trips!) and large groups of people. Grab your besties and plan a girls day out!
My comfort zone for a day trip is less than 3 hours travel each way, which allows me to explore desert (including this desert garden), mountains, lakes, and even stop for lunch in Mexico! An overnight trip expands my options immensely.
Check out your local state or area tourism sites for top tourist attractions in your area. Ask your local friends and neighbors for their favorite day trip destination recommendations.
Far flung destinations are great travel goals and should be savored, but you will be amazed at how many incredible activities are waiting to be explored only a few hours away from you right now!
Remember to mix it up and explore the exotic location hidden in your own backyard.