Domestic traveling has taken on an entirely new meaning in the time of the coronavirus; gone are the days when “staycation” was a trendy term used to describe spending a school break at home. Nowadays, international tourist bans are a given, quarantine requirements differ by state and the idea of travel seems like an impossible dream. “Staycation” is the assumed default, so much so that inquiries into winter break travel plans seem to be entirely nonexistent these days.
This doesn’t have to be the case, however. Domestic travel is an option, and it’s one I plan to fully embrace this winter. So, with my mask on my face, my suitcase in my hand and the desire to escape North Florida in my heart, I’m ready.
My planned locations are listed below because I’m ready to road trip, explore and travel, even if it has to be 2020 style.
Helen, Georgia
Helen has so many outdoor activities to offer visitors (which is incredibly relevant now, as it’s very easy to stay socially distant outside). Anna Ruby Falls Trail and Blood Mountain are two beautiful hiking areas, complete with waterfalls, mountains (obviously) and picture-perfect views. Because of the coronavirus edition of work and school (at home, inside and online), the opportunity to pursue physical health (while outside) makes this destination perfect for all.
If outdoor activities aren’t your thing, this can still be the perfect destination for you. Helen is also full of charming shops, riveting history and year-round Christmas cheer. The inns, hotels and Airbnbs are all incredibly cozy and very homely.
Blue Ridge Parkway, North Carolina/Virginia
Widely regarded as one of the most scenic areas of the Southeast, the Blue Ridge Parkway is a beautiful road trip destination. This location is the embodiment of adventure — opportunities to camp, hike and cycle are everywhere. Additionally, the available opportunities are seemingly endless: zip-lining, canoeing, climbing, kayaking and rafting are all offered to visitors. This is quite possibly the best news ever, because, in my humble opinion, we are all in dire need of some kind of adrenaline rush after hours and days stuck in front of the computer.
This parkway provides visitors with the opportunity to really, really get away from it all, and maybe even forget about all of the current limitations of vacations.
Cloudland Canyon State Park Rising Fawn, Georgia
This park is perfect for those that dream of the American West; Cloudland Canyon is a beautiful place, complete with abundant wildlife, sprawling canyons, deep caves and curious cliffs. The adjectives that could be used to describe this location are endless, which is why I’ve made it my goal to make it out there this winter. From gift shops to the Wilderness Outdoor Movie Theater (yes, this means movie night under the stars) to exploring the Howard’s Waterfall Cave Preserve, Cloudland Canyon is full of socially distant activities.
This list is a short assembly of various safe travel destinations in the American Southeast right now. I hope your excitement was somewhat sparked by the possibility of adventure and travel in 2020. I know that I’m excited for, well, anything that doesn’t include Zoom.
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