The Staycation Is The Destination: Why Some Canadians Are Skipping The U.S. For Luxe Local Getaways

With cross-border trips on the decline and domestic travel booming, the luxury staycation isn’t just a post-pandemic trend—it’s a full-on movement. We caught up with Jayne McCaw, founder of Jayne’s Luxury Rentals and the force behind more than 350 high-end vacation properties in Muskoka and beyond, to talk about how Canadian travellers are redefining indulgence, why U.S. tourists are eyeing cottage country, and what this all means for the future of local tourism. —Noa Nichol

With Canadian return trips from the U.S. significantly down, what does this shift toward domestic luxury travel say about where Canadians want to spend their time and money right now?
We’re seeing a meaningful reset in how Canadians think about luxury travel. Rather than splurging abroad, they’re investing in experiences closer to home that offer both comfort and connection. For many, that means trading long-haul flights and exchange-rate uncertainty for lakeside serenity and quality time with loved ones. Muskoka, and Canadian cottage country more broadly, is no longer a second choice; it’s becoming one of the most desirable destinations.

Jayne’s Luxury Rentals has become synonymous with upscale cottage escapes. What’s fueling the current staycation boom, and how has it transformed your business?
We’ve seen a major shift since the pandemic, and that momentum hasn’t slowed. Convenience plays a role, but so does the emotional pull – people want space and privacypeople want to get away from all the noise in the world and spend time in safe spaces where they can truly relax. . That’s changed how we operate. Our team has grown, our concierge services have expanded, and we now manage nearly 300 curated properties across Ontario. Guests want a five-star experience without the logistics of international travel or having to stay in a hotel, and we’ve built our business around delivering that.

How have political and economic forces like Trump-era tariffs, the strong U.S. dollar, and growing nationalism impacted the travel decisions of your Canadian clientele?
These trends have made people more conscious of where and how they travel. A strong U.S. dollar makes American destinations less attractive financially, and political tensions have created hesitation around crossing the border. For many Canadians, the response has been to look toward destinations that feel safer, more values-aligned, and less complicated to navigate. 

For Canadians who may have traditionally spent summer in the Hamptons or Cape Cod, what makes Muskoka—and Canadian cottage country in general—a worthy (or even better) alternative?
Muskoka has the beauty, luxury, and service standards people expect from top-tier international destinations, without the pretension. It’s easy to get to, has a natural charm, and is filled with premium experiences, from private chefs to sunset cruises. There’s also a Canadian authenticity down to earth feeling where people can be themselves, that resonates with travellers looking for more than just a pretty backdrop. Many celebrities summer in Muskoka from the Beckhams and the Biebers, to Martin Short, Cindy Crawford, Harry Hamilin, Lisa Rinnie, and Mark Wahlberg.

What kinds of trends are you seeing when it comes to luxury preferences—are travelers looking for more privacy, curated experiences, sustainability, or something else entirely?
All of the above. Privacy continues to be a top priority, with many of our guests looking to unplug and unwind without crowds or disruption. We’re also seeing rising demand for personalized itineraries and curated local experiences, whether it’s a private yoga class on the dock or a wine tasting under the stars. Sustainability is playing a bigger role, too, as guests want to support local makers, reduce their footprint, and feel good about their choices.

How has the rise in staycations created new opportunities for cottage owners? Is now the time to enter the luxury rental market?
Demand for luxury rentals in cottage country is very high, and many owners are seeing strong returns when they partner with the right team. We handle everything from guest vetting and concierge services to property maintenance and revenue management. For owners, it’s a chance to monetize an asset that may only be used a few weeks a year, without giving up control or peace of mind.

You’ve hosted everyone from executives to large families—what are your guests looking for in a high-end Canadian getaway, and how are those needs evolving?
The modern luxury traveller wants more than just a beautiful cottage; they want the full experience. That might mean a stocked fridge on arrival, daily housekeeping, or a fully remote setup. Families are asking for kid-friendly layouts and multi-generational spaces, while professionals want properties that can double as workcation retreats. Overall, the one constant is that guests want things to feel effortless. 

What are some of the most surprising or unique requests you’ve received when it comes to luxury vacation rentals in Muskoka?
We’ve arranged everything from themed family weeks and private chefs to custom celebrations and last-minute spa services. Guests can come to us with big ideas, birthday surprises, private dinners, or curated outdoor experiences, and our team will work behind the scenes to make it feel seamless. No two stays are the same, and that’s part of what makes it special.

Are you seeing increased interest from American travelers looking north for luxury escapes? What’s drawing them to Canada now?
We’ve always had a solid amount of U.S. interest. American travellers are looking for destinations that offer luxury and tranquillity without the stress of more saturated markets. Muskoka gives them that, plus the added novelty of discovering a lesser-known gem, which comes with added privacy. 

Before tariffs, we definitely saw a bigger uptick in interest and bookings from U.S. travellers. As of recently, with tariffs, U.S. bookings have not continued at the same rate. Most of our last-minute bookings are actually coming from Canadians now. 

With nearly 300curated properties and counting, what’s next for Jayne’s Luxury Rentals—and where do you see Canadian luxury travel heading in the next few years?
We’re focused on deepening the guest experience, including introducing new services, expanding our portfolio thoughtfully in other Canadian destinations, and continuing to elevate the standard for private luxury accommodations in Ontarion and other Canadian destinations (not just cottage country)  Canadian luxury travel is shifting toward purpose-driven stays – what do you mean here? Purpose-driven as a means to ‘get away’ from it all?  Take a break from the pace of the world? Then yes, I agree. We’re excited to be part of shaping what that looks like, not just for this season, but for the next generation of travellers.