While restrictions were certainly more relaxed this summer than they were in 2020, many families still opted to cancel or change their regular vacation plans in 2021.

Whether you had a chance to get out and explore or not this year, you’re likely looking forward to a time when things will (hopefully) look a little more normal. If you have your sights set on an exciting, adventurous, or relaxing vacation in 2022, why not start planning today?

Keep reading to learn why now is the perfect time to start planning your 2022 vacation!

Dream Vacation: Get Your First Choice of Dates

We are far from the only destination around the world that saw many visitors canceling their visits this year and last.

While Zion National Park and other local attractions are seeing record visitor numbers this year, we expect even more people to opt to explore beautiful Southern Utah in 2022. These are among travelers’ favorite destinations for good reason—their unique appeal, stunning scenery, and abundance of outdoor activities make them especially popular choices.

To get your top pick of dates for summer 2022, book early. This is especially important for favorite destinations that are in high demand for good reason. If you have your heart set on a specific unit or need a certain unit to accommodate a larger group, booking early will help ensure that you get your first choice of dates.

Invite the Family or Reconnect with Friends

In a world full of responsibilities, it’s easy to fall out of touch with family and friends who live out of state or elsewhere in the world. But thanks to COVID-19, many of us finally had time to reach out and connect, even if it was virtually.

Now is a great time to strengthen that connection. While you still might not have been able to visit with them this year because of travel restrictions, planning a trip for summer 2022 gives everyone plenty of time to make travel arrangements, especially if anyone will be traveling internationally.

With a little more planning time, you might just get the chance to enjoy the trip of a lifetime with friends and family you don’t get to spend nearly enough time with. These unforgettable moments can enrich your life, creating memories that last forever and define your relationships. After months of isolation, you’ll enjoy your time together more than you ever would have before the coronavirus.

Renting multiple units is a great way to accommodate a large group for the ultimate friend-getaway or even a family reunion. Consider planning a week-long dream vacation so everyone has enough time to reconnect, explore, and make lasting memories. But you’ll want to start planning early if you need to rent multiple units side-by-side.

Give Yourself Time to Save for the Trip of a Lifetime

Skipping a summer vacation this year and having more than 12 months to plan your next one is a bummer. But it’s also a great opportunity.

If you’ve been dreaming of one of those once-in-a-lifetime trips but are worried about the cost, you can give yourself more time to save and work towards your goal. Saving money over time can make your dream vacation much more attainable, allowing your budget to stretch further and making the experience even more rewarding. Your visit to The Dwellings could be accompanied by an epic cross-country road trip, or maybe bookended by exploring some of Utah’s other incredible destinations, like the rest of The Mighty 5 national parks or by choosing the best season to visit Southern Utah.

With careful planning and saving, we hope your dream trip will soon become a reality.

Have Something Incredible to Look Forward to

We’ve all been through a lot in the past year and a half, and the end isn’t in sight just yet. But with so much stress and worry, having something to look forward to is always a good idea.

Having a trip planned and booked will give your family something to talk about, plan together, and bond over. If you’re bringing the kids along for the adventure, you can turn your trip planning into a fun educational opportunity. Challenge them to learn about the wildlife they might see or about the history of the region. Then, schedule visits to museums, visitor centers, and other locations during your trip where they can continue their learning. You can also involve everyone in choosing what you’ll do each day of your trip or what day trips you might take. Don’t forget to discover local tours, experiences, and hidden gems to make the most of your visit and immerse yourself in the culture.

Give Yourself Time to Learn Something New

A visit to Southern Utah can be a relaxing, rejuvenating experience. There are plenty of local spas you can visit for a bit of pampering, while your patio space is the perfect spot to unwind after some sightseeing.

But the great thing about visiting the area is that it offers something for every interest. If you prefer getting active or perhaps learning new skills during your vacation, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from in the area. Consider enrolling in a local course, such as a photography or cooking course, or brushing up on photography tips for capturing stunning landscapes to enhance your dream vacation experience.

Want to capture some awesome wildlife shots during your trip? Have your heart set on climbing to the top of Angel’s Landing or trekking the length of The Narrows? Or perhaps you want to go off-roading, rock climbing, or try another exciting adventure sport? If you’re looking for something more relaxing, you might enjoy cruising along a scenic route or river to take in the breathtaking views or trying exciting ways to explore Southern Utah beyond hiking.

Planning your trip early means having more time to start learning new skills or enhancing your current ones. You’ll have months to start honing your photography skills or taking practice hikes to build up your muscles and endurance.

Choosing the Perfect Location

When it comes to planning your dream vacation, choosing the perfect location is where the adventure truly begins. With so many places on your dream destinations list, narrowing it down can feel overwhelming—but it’s also pure magic to imagine the possibilities. Start by thinking about what kind of experience you want: are you drawn to pristine beaches, eager to explore breathtaking national parks, or hoping to immerse yourself in the culture of a vibrant city?

If you crave nature and adventure, destinations like Costa Rica offer a blend of lush jungle, stunning beaches, and abundant wildlife. Prefer a more luxurious escape? The Amalfi Coast in Italy is famous for its charming towns, luxury hotels, and dramatic coastline. For those who want a bit of everything, look for destinations that combine outdoor activities, local culture, and relaxation. Whether your dream is to wander narrow streets in a historic city, hike through national parks, or simply soak up the sun on a secluded beach, making a dream destinations list will help you focus your search and find the perfect spot for your next vacation—especially if you’re drawn to Southern Utah’s fall magic and scenic drives.

Research and Budgeting

Once you’ve settled on your dream destination, it’s time to dive into research and budgeting. Start by checking flight prices and comparing accommodation options to get a sense of what your trip might cost. Remember, timing can make a big difference—visiting during peak season, like chasing the Northern Lights in Iceland, might be pricier, but the unforgettable experiences are often worth it. If you’re planning a cold-weather getaway, factor in winter driving safety tips for Southern Utah. Look into the best times to visit your chosen destination to balance cost and experience.

Don’t forget to factor in the cost of activities, meals, and any extras that will make your vacation special. Research whether you’ll need visas, vaccinations, or other travel documents, and add those to your budget. Creating a realistic budget and sticking to it will help ensure your dream trip doesn’t turn into a financial headache. With a little planning, you can make your dream vacation happen without breaking the bank.

Accommodations and Activities

Finding the right place to stay is key to making your vacation comfortable and memorable. From luxury resorts in the Indian Ocean with turquoise waters and all-inclusive amenities, to cozy mountain lodges in the Swiss Alps or boutique hotels near Machu Picchu, there’s something for every traveler and every budget. Consider what matters most to you—do you want a resort with plenty of outdoor activities, a co-living tiny home experience at The Dwellings, or a quiet retreat where you can unwind after a day of exploring?

Many destinations offer packages that include activities like snorkeling, hiking, or guided tours, making it easy to experience the best of the area. If adventure is your style, look for places that offer access to national parks, mountain biking, or even winter sports, along with diverse food and activities around The Dwellings. Whether you’re dreaming of relaxing by the sea or conquering new heights, choosing the right accommodations and activities will help you create the perfect getaway.

Food and Drink

No dream vacation is complete without sampling the local food and drink. Before you go, research the must-try dishes and restaurants at your destination—don’t forget to add a few to your bucket list! Taking a food tour or cooking class is a fun way to dive into the local culture and learn new skills. For example, in Greece, you can join a cooking class to master traditional favorites like moussaka or spanakopita, and enjoy the flavors that make the country’s cuisine so beloved, just as spotting birds and wildlife in Southern Utah’s skies can deepen your connection to that region’s natural culture.

Be sure to try local wines, beers, or specialty drinks, as these are often a reflection of the region’s history and culture. Exploring new tastes is one of the best ways to connect with a place and create memories you’ll never forget.

Staying Organized

With so many details to juggle, staying organized is the best way to ensure your dream trip goes smoothly. Start by making a checklist of everything you need to do before you leave—booking flights, confirming accommodations, and planning activities. Use a travel app or spreadsheet to keep track of your itinerary, reservations, and important documents.

While planning is important, don’t forget to leave some room for spontaneity. Sometimes the most unforgettable experiences happen when you wander off the beaten path or try something new on a whim, like discovering top scenic drives in Southern Utah you hadn’t planned on. With a little organization and a spirit of adventure, your dream vacation will be filled with moments you’ll cherish for a lifetime.

Make it a Holiday Gift You’ll Never Forget

Looking for a holiday gift for your family or a loved one that they’ll never forget? Why not give them the gift of fun, adventure, and the great outdoors, all rolled into one honestly, there’s nothing more meaningful than sharing the experience of travel together.

You can book your trip now and give the visit to your loved one as a holiday or birthday gift. It’s certain to be a gift that they’ll never forget—and that you’ll never forget, either, if you book the trip for both of you to share!

This is a great option for families, as you can use the time between the holiday and your 2022 vacation to plan the destinations and activities you might like to enjoy together, including exploring the wonders of your chosen destination.

If your family has already planned a trip, you can still use the holidays as a chance to gift other unique experiences to enjoy during your vacation. Maybe someone in your family has always wanted to try off-roading, and another loves to try unique restaurants. Gift cards for those and other activities make great holiday gifts and help them create memories that they’ll treasure far longer than another holiday sweater.

You really can’t go wrong with giving the gift of travel—every destination offers its own special experiences and memories.

Start Planning Your Summer 2022 Visit The Dwellings

Dream vacations start with the perfect plan and the right property. Whether you had the chance to enjoy a semi-normal vacation this summer or not, it’s not too early to set your sights on a visit to The Dwellings in 2022. When booking your stay, consider the unique features and amenities of each property to ensure your experience is comfortable and memorable. For those seeking different types of accommodations, there are also hotel options in the area to suit every preference.

The local town serves as a charming hub for exploration, offering visitors a welcoming atmosphere and access to local attractions. The scene around The Dwellings is filled with natural beauty, from dramatic vistas to vibrant sunsets, making it a truly picturesque destination. The wild landscape surrounding the area adds a sense of adventure and uniqueness, perfect for those who crave an untamed environment. If you visit during winter, the snow transforms the scenery into a magical wonderland, enhancing the area’s visual appeal and offering winter magic in Southern Utah at The Dwellings.

As you plan your dream vacation, consider other inspiring destinations like the turquoise waters of Lake Louise, the vibrant culture of Mexico, the sunny shores of Florida, the historic cities of Europe, or even wild landscapes reminiscent of Jurassic Park. Each offers its own unforgettable scene and beauty.

Book your fall 2021 or 2022 vacation today!