The way Brits take holidays is changing. Shorter, more spontaneous, and closer to home – the ‘microcation’ is fast becoming the UK’s travel trend of the moment, with Brits increasingly swapping the long-haul for meaningful breaks of under five days*.
For those looking to make the most of the Easter holidays, Celtic Manor Resort offers an ideal base. Set among the rolling hills of the Usk Valley in South Wales, the five-star resort’s Welcome to Feel Good initiative has been designed around exactly this need: rest, connection and the freedom to slow down, without having to go far to find it.
Jenna Carr, author of the five-star rated family travel guide, Yes You Can Travel With Kids, provides five simple tips to make the most of a short break, without the stress:
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Choose places that are quick and easy to reach
“You want to make the most of the short amount of time, so avoid spending half your trip travelling. Look for destinations within two or three hours of your home, as the less time you spend in the car or on the train, the more time you actually get to enjoy the break!”
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Plan a loose itinerary before you go
“When you only have a few days, a little planning makes a big difference. Research two or three key activities you want to do before you arrive, so you don’t spend precious time deciding what to do. This could be a scenic walk, a great restaurant, or a family activity. You don’t want every minute scheduled, but having a rough plan helps you make the most of a shorter trip.”
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Travel light and keep things simple
“Packing for a long holiday can feel like preparing for an expedition; the joy of a micro-cation is being able to keep it simple. Pack just the essentials and avoid overthinking outfits or gear. A small suitcase or even a backpack can make the trip feel easier and more spontaneous, especially if you’re travelling by train or exploring on foot once you arrive.”
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Treat it like a proper holiday (because it is!)
“Even though it’s only a few days, the key to enjoying a micro-cation is to switch off properly. Try to avoid checking work emails or squeezing in too many errands. Book somewhere that feels a bit special, whether that’s a room or a family-friendly suite. A change of scenery, good food and a slower pace can make a short trip feel surprisingly restorative.”
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Focus on experiences rather than distance“You don’t need to travel far to feel like you’ve had a real break. Some of the best micro-cations are about simple experiences: countryside walks, exploring a new town, or spending time outdoors as a family. The UK is full of places where you can create those moments without needing a week off work.”
For those seeking a short break this Easter, Celtic Manor Resort offers something for every type of guest – whether that is unwinding at The Forum Spa, teeing off on the Ryder Cup-host Twenty Ten Course, or enjoying family fun with an array of adventure activities including high ropes, forest nets and axe throwing.
Within easy reach just off the M4 at the gateway to South Wales, the resort also offers award-winning dining at a choice of family friendly restaurants with children’s menus offering a variety of delicious dishes to suit the fussiest of eaters, as well as the more adventurous.
Guests looking to treat themselves for an Easter break at the resort can choose from a range of rooms and suites, with prices starting from £138 for Bed & Breakfast.
For more information and to make a booking, go to: Welcome to Feel Good.
