Staycation was a hugely popular term a few years ago due to the slumping markets and economy. But, to be honest, I don’t think it has gone away. Not because of money issues but because we realized that experiencing something new, relaxing, breathtaking, or thrilling didn’t have to happen far from home.
Bayfield, located about an hour from London, is a quick escape for the boy and I. Sitting on Ontario’s west coast, the charming little town has the water, the beach, friendly residents, fun shopping, and some of the most delicious casual and fancy pants food around. During the summer, we often drive up to Bayfield for brunch at The Black Dog Pub and an after meal ice cream on Main Street. With the sun still high in the sky and an opportunity to explore another little town well known for its charm but never visited by us, we headed twenty minutes north to Goderich.
It was our lucky day. The square in the centre of old downtown, although devoid of the mature trees destroyed by the 2011 tornado, was now dotted with new greenery and a multitude of vintage cars. I felt transported back in time.
We wove through the colourful display of power and engineering, and popped into some of the local businesses which fill the historic buildings around the square. Music from the 50s, 60s, and 70s filled the air. I hadn’t expected to have such a unique first impression of Goderich, but it definitely guaranteed my return. I highly recommend a weekend visit to both of these delightful destinations, summer or winter, rain or shine!