Bundoran vs. Benidorm: A Family Staycation Experience

July 16, 2025
Bundoran vs. Benidorm: A Family Staycation Experience

In a recent column, Julie Jay, a comedian and writer, reflects on her family's staycation in Bundoran, County Donegal, contrasting it with the popular Spanish resort of Benidorm. During their week-long visit, marked by unpredictable weather, Jay emphasizes the joys of local vacations over international travel, particularly in light of previous lockdown experiences.

The family arrived in Bundoran amidst torrential downpours and record temperatures reported in Spain, a stark reminder of the weather variability that often defines Irish summers. Jay noted, 'At least, I think that’s what they were saying; it was so hard to hear over the torrential downpour that made driving conditions fairly dicey.' Despite the rain, they enjoyed activities reminiscent of childhood holidays, such as playing card games and visiting amusements, illustrating a nostalgic return to simpler times.

This staycation trend has gained traction in Ireland, as families rediscover local attractions. According to a report from Fáilte Ireland, domestic travel increased by 40% in 2022 compared to pre-pandemic levels, highlighting a significant shift in holiday preferences among Irish families (Fáilte Ireland, 2022). Jay's experience reflects a broader cultural movement towards valuing local experiences, particularly in light of the pandemic that altered travel norms.

Throughout the week, the family faced the typical challenges of traveling with young children, including managing temper tantrums and navigating accommodations not designed for toddlers. Jay humorously recounted purchasing a waterproof poncho for her son, illustrating the often chaotic reality of family vacations where expectations meet the unpredictability of weather and children's moods.

She remarked, 'Nothing says ‘Irish holiday’ like a soggy bum,' capturing the essence of the Irish vacation experience where conditions may not always be ideal, yet the memories created remain priceless. This perspective resonates with many families who have opted for staycations as a viable alternative to international travel, especially amid rising costs and travel uncertainties.

Jay concluded her reflections by asserting her preference for Bundoran over Benidorm, stating that the ability to threaten to drive home provides a sense of control that is absent in foreign vacations. 'I would choose Bundoran over Benidorm every time,' she wrote, emphasizing the familial connections and comfort found in local retreats.

As the travel landscape continues to shift, experiences like Jay's serve as a reminder of the value of local exploration, offering families a chance to bond and create lasting memories without the complexities of international travel. This narrative aligns with ongoing discussions about the sustainability of tourism and the importance of supporting local economies, particularly in areas like Bundoran that thrive on domestic tourism. With the potential for future travel still uncertain, the trend towards staycations may remain a prominent choice for families seeking both adventure and familiarity.

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BundoranBenidormstaycationfamily travelIrish tourismJulie JayDonegalpandemic travel trendsFáilte Irelandlocal experiencesfamily vacationtravel preferencesweather in Irelandchild-friendly activitiesIrish coastfamily bondingtravel memoriesIrish summerholiday nostalgiadomestic travelcultural movementtravel challengestourism recoverylocal economysummer holidaysparentingIrish culturevacation planningtourism industrytravel insights

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