‘Staycation’ or how to romanticise not being able to go on holiday in summer

In a socio-economic context marked by inflation and growing inequality, the term staycation, baptised by The Washington Post, is emerging as the new summer trend. This English term combines two concepts: stay (to stay, to be) and vacation (holiday). In other words, staying or being at home during the holidays. Instead of exotic destinations, terraces and barbecues in the garden are now status symbols. However, this trend is also criticised for romanticising poverty and disguising economic constraints as a cool choice.

The revaluation of the everyday has found its ultimate expression in staycation. Spending afternoons in the inflatable pool in the garden, rediscovering one’s own city or marathoning series on the sofa has become the new narrative for summer holidays. However, this idealisation hides a more complex reality. According to the National Institute of Statistics, 65% of Spaniards will not go on holiday this summer, and of these, 80% cite economic reasons as the main impediment. Runaway inflation and rising prices for flights and accommodation have meant that, for many, ‘staycation’ is not a voluntary option, but an imposition.

The staycation narrative also generates social pressure to mask economic reality. People are forced to transform a necessity into a virtue to avoid the stigma of poverty, which can lead to a cycle of self-deception and denial of real financial problems. The constant exposure of our lives through social media also redefines our expectations of holidays. This dynamic reinforces the gap between perception and reality, complicating the identification and resolution of underlying financial difficulties.

Staying at home is not inherently negative. In a post-pandemic world, where rest and mental health are priorities, enjoying the home has its advantages. However, it is crucial not to lose sight of the underlying reasons that have led to the popularity of staycation. It is not just a trend, but a reflection of a strained and uneven economic situation. It is not just about staying at home, but about understanding and addressing the economic realities that force many to do so. The real question is: How long will we continue to sustain this situation?

Where did the celebrities go on holiday this summer?