Home for the Holidays: Why Some Devon Residents are Choosing Familiar Comfort Over Travel
As the holiday season draws near, many people across the UK begin to plan their trips to visit family, discover new destinations, or simply unwind. However, this year, an increasing number of Devon residents are choosing to stay closer to home rather than embarking on long journeys or heading abroad. With the county's rich offerings of natural beauty, local events, and a sense of community, there are several compelling reasons why so many locals are opting for a quieter, more relaxed holiday season in their own neck of the woods.
The Joy of Staying Home
For many, the holiday season can be filled with stress — from long queues at airports to delayed trains and unpredictable weather, the travel experience often adds more frustration than joy. In contrast, staying at home allows people to truly unwind, embrace a slower pace, and enjoy the season in a familiar, comforting environment. Without the pressures of navigating airports or squeezing into packed trains, staying home offers the luxury of doing exactly what you want.
At home, there are endless opportunities to enjoy the holiday season in a way that feels personal and stress-free. For those who love cooking, preparing a huge Christmas feast — with all the trimmings — becomes a joyful event, filled with the aromas of roast turkey, mince pies, and seasonal treats. For others, the idea of spending the entire day in pyjamas, watching Christmas classics like Home Alone or Love Actually, offers the perfect way to relax and embrace the festive spirit from the comfort of their own living room.
Some may find joy in a bit of friendly competition or solo relaxation by engaging in video games or even indulging in online casino games. Whether it's trying your luck on online slots or challenging friends to a round of online poker, online casinos offer an easy way to unwind at home. Some bettors prefer wagering on local sites in the UK that meet GamStop rules; however, a growing number of bettors have begun seeking out offshore sites that are not restricted by the UK’s regulations. When wagering at an offshore casino not on GamStop 2025, gamers often get access to large game libraries with both old classics and new, unique titles, along with generous bonus offers. These perks continue to attract gamers, making international sites a go-to option.
For those seeking something more creative, staying home offers the chance to explore new hobbies or revisit old ones. People can spend the day wrapping presents with care, decorating the house in a unique way, or even crafting homemade gifts for loved ones. The joy of being at home also comes from the little things — like sipping a hot drink by the fire, reading a festive book, or enjoying a quiet walk in the crisp winter air.
The flexibility of staying home means there’s no pressure to adhere to a strict schedule or cram every moment with activity. Whether it’s taking a peaceful nap in the afternoon, trying out a new recipe, or simply enjoying the stillness of the season, staying local offers a level of freedom and relaxation that travel often can’t provide.
Rising Costs of Travel
The rising costs of travel have become a significant factor in the decision for many Devon residents to stay home this holiday season. With fuel prices continuing to climb, along with higher train fares and the increasing cost of flights, many are reevaluating whether it's worth the financial burden to travel long distances or go abroad during the festive period.
For those considering train journeys, ticket prices have surged in recent years, and the availability of more affordable travel options has dwindled. Similarly, the rising cost of fuel makes road trips less economical, especially for solo drivers. Flights, traditionally a popular choice for holiday getaways, have also become increasingly expensive. With fewer budget-friendly options and higher demand for popular routes, air travel has become a major financial hurdle for many.
In light of these rising travel costs, many Devon residents are opting to stay local, enjoying the holiday season in the comfort of their own county. Staying put not only alleviates the stress and expense of long-distance travel but also provides a more relaxed and affordable holiday experience — all while still embracing the festive spirit.
The Appeal of Local Attractions and Events
One of the main reasons Devon locals are staying put this year is the sheer wealth of attractions and activities available within their county. From the rugged cliffs of Dartmoor to the scenic coastline of the Jurassic Coast, Devon is home to an abundance of natural beauty that offers the perfect backdrop for a holiday spent close to home.
While some may associate the holiday season with snowy landscapes and bustling Christmas markets, Devon offers its own charm, with festive events and winter walks that highlight the best of the region. Many towns, such as Exeter, Torquay, and Barnstable, host Christmas fairs, light displays, and traditional events that draw both locals and visitors. These celebrations create an inviting atmosphere where residents can embrace the holiday spirit without the need to leave the comfort of their home county.
Additionally, Devon’s thriving food scene provides plenty of opportunities for festive indulgence. Local markets and farm shops offer a bounty of seasonal produce, and many Devon-based restaurants offer Christmas menus showcasing the region’s finest ingredients. For those who prefer a more relaxed approach to the holiday, spending the day enjoying locally sourced food and walking through picturesque villages or along the beach can be an appealing alternative to the usual hectic travel plans.
The Comfort of Familiarity
At the heart of the decision to stay home this holiday season is the simple comfort of familiarity. After a year of uncertainty and upheaval, many people are seeking stability and peace. The idea of spending Christmas at home — surrounded by the familiar sights, sounds, and smells of one’s own house, neighbourhood, and local community — provides a sense of comfort and security.
This year, particularly, many people are realising that the holiday season doesn’t have to be about extravagant travel or grand gestures. For those in Devon, the beauty of the county, the joy of local traditions, and the ability to spend time with loved ones in a relaxed, stress-free environment are more than enough. Whether it’s a walk through a winter forest, a cosy evening in a Devon pub, or simply enjoying the quiet of a countryside Christmas, staying local offers a fulfilling, meaningful way to celebrate the season.
