MAKE THAT HOLIDAY FEELING LAST

Is the thought of going back to the daily grind getting you down? Here’s how to hang on to the vacay vibe

- LESEGO MKHIZE

T’S the start of a new year, but the end of the festive season break is looming and the thought of going back to work might be making you feel a little gloomy.

Whether you’ll be working from home or heading to the office, getting back into the swing of things after a vacay – even a short one – can be hard. You’re not alone. The slump that comes after a holiday is over even has a name – it’s called post-holiday blues.

Travel to a far-flung destination is very likely to be followed by a feeling of emptiness once you’ve returned to your normal routine. “Travelling makes you feel amazing; almost like a drug,” says Netherlands-based globetrotter travel writer Manouk on bunchofbackpackers.com.

“You experience new things. You push your boundaries. You see and learn. You open your heart to new people and cultures.”

She’s familiar with the “dramatic post-holiday dip” after returning home from an amazing break and adds that “the positive effects of a holiday only last for so long”.

But the post-holiday blues can hit even if you haven’t been on an exotic trip and have simply had a staycation relaxing with loved ones and friends. The good news is there are things you can do to make the bliss last.

Find small ways to bottle up that magical feeling, says travel blogger Keri on ladieswhattravel.com. “A number of studies have been carried out to look into this feeling.

“And they all say the same thing – those who can prolong the holiday vibe are those who derive the most pleasure out of life itself.”