4 Locations to Experience an Extended Stay

This post will help you to enjoy your dream vacation with an extended stay. Have access to a full kitchen, and larger spaces than a typical hotel room to get the most out of your journey.

gray and black dslr camera beside sun hat and sunglasses

When we think of a vacation we normally think of a week or two away somewhere. Our imaginations don’t venture very far: a Caribbean cruise, a city in Europe, or perhaps the Florida Keys. T

here’s nothing wrong with this; we all need some time away from the daily grind to break the routine and refresh ourselves. If we didn’t have these short vacations, chances are we’d start breaking out in spots. 

The trouble with these short vacations is they don’t allow much of an opportunity to experience the culture of a place. We try the food, and hear the language – maybe even learn a few words and phrases, but we don’t integrate with the local community and get to know what it’s like to live in a place.

Extended Stays can be anywhere in the world!

We will always be a tourist, an outsider. That might be how we like it, and if it is that’s fine too, but there are other ways to experience a vacation that can be a hundred times more rewarding. 

Some people even say that their extended vacations have been life-changing. It has given them a chance to learn the language, develop deep, lasting friendships, and get to know an area like it’s a second home.

Japan 

If you’ve always dreamed of visiting Japan for an extended stay it’s worth the effort to spend a little more time there than your average vacation. Japan has some incredible natural beauty – cherry blossoms in the Spring and mountains covered with red and yellow trees in the autumn.

You will find the Japanese people, friendly, gentle, and especially helpful. 

There are several ways you can spend a little more time here. Travel the length of the country from Hokkaido to Kyushu with a JR railcard – you can do this in the space of a month taking in all the must-see places on the way: Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto, and Hiroshima.

Alternatively, book a rental in an Airbnb and explore one special location, such as Kyoto. In this way, you can get to know the locals. 

Thailand 

Thailand is the perfect location for a long-stay vacation. Its 60-day flexible tourist visa means you can easily plan, and it gives you ample time to explore the country. Fantastic food, world-class hotels, and superb cruises are just some of the reasons why people love Thailand. 

Buddhas and temple in Chiang Mai as an option for an extended stay

If you want to experience the culture as a semi-permanent resident for up to 60 days you might be interested in a luxury house for rent in Chon Buri. Chonburi is a popular destination with lots of interesting things to see and do.

Visit Buddha Mountain, a 130-meter-high mountain with a commemorative golden-leafed Buddha carved into the side. Or cruise to Koh Lan (Coral Island) and spend time on the tropical four-beach island. 

Galápagos Islands

The Galapagos Islands are located 600 miles off the west coast of South America and form part of Ecuador.

They are a rare, secluded, volcanic archipelago; home to some of the most spectacular wildlife in the world such as marine iguanas, giant tortoises, fur seals, and Galapagos penguins. There is also a host of marine life and thousands of species of birds. 

For an extended stay on Galápagos Islands consider staying in Santa Cruz. If you wanted you could spend years living there. It’s a pleasant island with lots to do: there are many options for bike rental, surfboard rental, and kayaking.

San Cristobal is also an option with a similar setup. If you want a busier area with more nightlife, Puerto Ayora is the place to go. No Galapagos island holiday is complete without a cruise – so don’t miss out. 

Hawaii 

When we think of a holiday we conjure up images of white sand beaches, hanging palm trees, and colorful cocktails. This might be an abstract image but it fits Hawaii perfectly.

The islands also boast searing volcanos, spectacular sunsets, and aquatic lagoons. Hawaii has big cities, quiet beaches, lush rainforests, and excellent beach bars. 

Brown sandy beach and blue water and palm trees in Hawaii as an option for an extended stay

A long stay in Hawaii is the perfect way to relax and unwind in the way life should be. Private rentals are available ranging from studio apartments to three-bedroom condos and homes.

Long-term rentals will require a security deposit and cleaning fees: most require a 30-day commitment. However, if you want greater flexibility, you can always choose a hotel with weekly rates

*This is a contributed post, all images are owned by pexels.com or jetsetandforget and may contain affiliate links

Join My Monthly Newsletter!

Get one email per month with the newest blog posts

I will never give away, trade or sell your email address. You can unsubscribe at any time.

1 thought on “4 Locations to Experience an Extended Stay”

Leave a Comment

Join me online