No Passport? No Problem!
Just because you’re not hopping on a plane doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy all the best bits of a holiday abroad – sun, good food, relaxation, and that wonderful sense of escape. In fact, a staycation at Oakcliff has everything you need to feel like you’ve jetted off to a sunny Mediterranean retreat – minus the airport queues and suitcase stress!
Whether you’re craving long, lazy afternoons by the pool, delicious al fresco meals, or simply a slower pace of life (with a glass of something chilled in hand), you’ll find it all right here on your doorstep. And the best part? You can bring all the comfort and familiarity of home along for the ride – no need to worry about lost luggage or translation mishaps.
In this blog, we’ll whisk you away on a virtual tour around the world, sharing simple ways to turn your Devon stay into a holiday that feels far-flung and fabulous. From food that transports your taste buds to sun-drenched activities that bring the beachside spirit to life. It’s all about creating those feel-good moments, wherever you are.
So slip on your sunnies, pop the kettle on (or pour a glass of sangria!), and let’s dive into the art of the perfect staycation, Oakcliff style. Make Your Staycation Feel Like You’re Abroad!
Taste Your Way Around the World
One of the greatest joys of going abroad? The food, of course! From Mediterranean flavours to sizzling street food, the right dish can instantly whisk you away to sunnier shores – no plane ticket required. So why not bring those mouthwatering moments to your staycation?
Forget the usual freezer favourites, this is your chance to indulge in something a little more adventurous, a little more exciting, and a lot more delicious.
Whip Up a Homemade Feast
Channel your inner Italian chef and rustle up a zesty pasta dish with fresh herbs and ripe tomatoes. Or go full Mediterranean with a colourful frittata – great hot or cold, and perfect for those relaxed, no-rush lunches.
Hosting friends or family during your stay? Turn dinner into an event with a DIY pizza night. Lay out a spread of toppings and let everyone create their own masterpiece! It’s fun, easy, and feels just like a little trattoria under the Devon sun.
BBQ Like a Pro
Nothing says ‘holiday’ quite like the smoky aroma of a barbecue wafting through the air. Ditch the usual sausages and burgers for something with a little more flair. Juicy Greek-style gyros wrapped in flatbread, spicy Moroccan-inspired koftas, or colourful veggie kebabs with halloumi, courgette and peppers.
Pop on a summery playlist in the background – a bit of Spanish guitar or French café jazz – and suddenly, it’s like you’re dining on a terrace in the Med.
Mix Up a Jug of Sangria
Whether you prefer a little tipple or a refreshing mocktail, sangria is sunshine in a glass. All you need is some fresh fruit, fruit juice, a splash of soda water – and wine or alcohol-free fizz if you fancy – and voilà! You’ve got yourself the perfect drink for an afternoon on the decking.
Pour a glass, find a sunny spot, and enjoy the simple pleasure of sipping slowly with nowhere to be. It’s those small moments of indulgence that make a holiday feel truly special.
Build in Some Blissful Downtime
When you think back to your favourite holidays abroad, chances are they weren’t crammed with wall-to-wall activities. It’s the unhurried afternoons, quiet mornings, and peaceful evenings that really stay with you, and your staycation should be no different.
So go on, give yourself permission to slow things down and savour every little moment – make your staycation feel like you’re abroad. This is your time, after all.
Take a Siesta
There’s something wonderfully decadent about an afternoon nap, especially when you know you’ve got absolutely nowhere to be. Close the curtains, switch off your phone, and drift off for a little doze in your lodge. Or better yet, stretch out in a sun-dappled spot and let the sea breeze and birdsong lull you to sleep. It’s not lazy; it’s continental!
A short nap can leave you feeling refreshed, recharged, and ready to enjoy the evening, just like they do in Spain. So if you needed a sign to slow down… this is it.
Sunbathe by the Pool
Why not swap the sightseeing for some sun-soaking? Pop on your sunglasses, find a comfy lounger, and settle in with a good book and a tall glass of something cool. You might not be poolside in Portugal, but with Devon’s sea air, a bit of sunshine, and a splash in the water, it’s not far off.
And here’s a little perk: as an Oakcliff guest, you get full access to the facilities over at our sister park, Lady’s Mile. So whether you’re dipping your toes in the water or enjoying a race down the flume, you’ve got the best of both worlds. Peaceful surroundings and fantastic facilities.
Take an Evening Stroll
You know that magical time of day when the sun starts to dip, the air cools, and everything feels just that little bit more romantic? That’s your cue for a seaside stroll.
Wander along the coast at your own pace, take in the scent of the salt air, and watch the sun slip behind the horizon. Whether you’re walking hand-in-hand, snapping photos, or simply enjoying the view, it’s a moment worth savouring. For a few quiet minutes, you could be anywhere in the world: the French Riviera, the Amalfi Coast… or just a little corner of South Devon that feels just as dreamy.
Turn Up the Holiday Spirit
You don’t need a boarding pass to get those abroad vibes, sometimes it’s the little touches that bring the holiday magic to life. Whether you’re relaxing at Oakcliff or soaking up the sun at the local beaches, here’s how to make your staycation feel like you’re abroad.
Set the Soundtrack
Music has the power to transport. Pop on a playlist full of summer classics or chilled beach bar tunes, and let it set the tone – whether you’re sunbathing, cooking, or enjoying an evening tipple on the deck.
Dress the Part
Pull out your favourite holiday outfit, the one you never wear at home, and give yourself permission to feel like a tourist. A bright shirt, a floaty dress, a sunhat… why not?
Snap Those Holiday Moments
You don’t need to be abroad to create lasting memories. Take photos, capture the laughter, and turn them into a little scrapbook when you’re home. Or go retro – send yourself a postcard with a note about your favourite moment!
Souvenirs with Heart
Pick up something small from the Lady’s Mile shop or the local town – a magnet, a handmade trinket, a new mug. A simple keepsake to make you smile long after the holiday is over.
Because the holiday spirit isn’t about where you are – it’s how you feel.
Paradise is a Mindset
A staycation is more than a break from routine; it’s a chance to slow down, savour the good things, and soak up that carefree feeling we all crave.
So treat yourself. Try something new in the kitchen, take that evening stroll along the coast, wear your favourite summer outfit for no reason at all. Go out for ice cream, just because.
Because holidays aren’t about how far you travel – they’re about how you feel while you’re there.
Whether you’re unwinding in the hot tub with a glass of sangria, browsing the local shops for a keepsake, or simply enjoying a quiet moment in the sun, your Oakcliff stay can be every bit as special as a trip abroad.
The secret? Let go of the everyday and lean into the magic of the moment.
Book your stay at Oakcliff now – adventure’s calling! Click here to secure your spot and create unforgettable memories!
If you enjoyed our Make Your Staycation Feel Like You’re Abroad guide, you might like our other blogs. Find them here.