This year marks what we’re calling ‘The birth of staycations in Ballycastle’.
The whole of Northern Ireland, indeed GB and the Republic of Ireland saw the change in travel habits in response to Covid 19. But what does it mean to the future of holidays and what people want from accommodation on the North Coast?
We saw families getting together and appreciating the fact that they could finally enjoy each other’s company. People who would never usually stay on the North Coast of Ireland had a newfound love for the place. The word staycation became synonymous with families and friends getting together and just enjoying what they have on their doorstep – and it was great for us. We’re a busy holiday let anyway. But to see calendars booking out after months of uncertainty was a welcome breath of fresh air.
Covid was hard on the tourist industry, and we felt the strain.
Not only did we suffer from staff shortages, but the uncertainty caused by the government of Northern Ireland opening and then closing establishments shortly after caused mayhem with our bookings and was the most stressful lives in our decade as owners of self-catering accommodation.
At times we had guests trying to persuade us to stay open. When we were allowed to open, police checks in the area were rife and technically people couldn’t travel across the country without genuine reason.
As always, we worked on improving our facilities and tried to pack in even more games and activities for kids to do during their stay. Local attractions have really pushed the boat out. One of our partners Rosepark Farm in Ballymoney increased their attractions. Another partner Causeway Coast Kayaking tours have never been busier and branched out into walking tours.
Local cafes and restaurants adapted well to the new rules and saw an uptick in takeaways and footfall to their establishments thanks to staycations in Ballycastle. They embraced the staycation market to the fullest.
The Struggle
Every Business has had its struggles, especially concerning staffing levels behind the scenes. But the tourist industry has pulled together to meet the staycation lovers. Nowhere is this seen more than in Ballycastle amongst holiday let owners and other hospitality owners.
Staycations
It’s been great to contribute to helping visitors to get away from it all and reconnect with their families, and proves that we can all come together to support our communities. Staycations in Ballycastle have improved the local and wider economy. One of our booking agents Air BnB were automatically refunding deposits without our permission – even though guests had booked their accommodation for later in the year when restrictions were set to ease.
Looking for things to do in and around Ballycastle? Here’s our guide on things to do in Ballycastle, activities for families.
For now, we’re welcoming back tourists and guests while we can, and have written some guides to re-introduce you to Ballycastle!
Want to book your next staycation to Ballycastle?
Head to our booking website here for a staycation with your extended family.