The upsides of staying home this holiday season

Hello.

Tourism has gotten a boost this year with borders in most countries reopened after the pandemic. It seems as if everyone on my social media feed is off on vacation.

However, despite the allure of good food in our neighbouring countries or Hong Kong scrapping its “0+3” travel restriction system, some – like children’s book author Vivian Teo – are choosing to stay home this holiday.

It might be tempting to go overboard with your holiday plans, or buy expensive gifts for friends (inflation, what inflation?). But going all out on your first post-COVID holiday may not make you happy, say Yale-NUS College’s Jean Liu and May Lee.

This year, try ditching the Secret Santa gift exchange at your party, and focus on making merry with your family, friends and colleagues instead, says CNA’s Erin Low.

Whether you’re staying home this year for the festive season, or jetting off to a snowy mountain or sunny island, happy holidays to you.

Alison Jenner

Senior Editor, Commentary

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Shuffling stocking stuffers about just to busy ourselves at year-end gatherings seems like a waste of time and money, says CNA’s Erin Low.

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