Authentic Summer: Campgrounds on Rio Grande do Sul's Coast Attract Vacationers with Affective Memory and Natural Connection

Brazil - Ekhbary News Agency

Authentic Summer: Campgrounds on Rio Grande do Sul's Coast Attract Vacationers with Affective Memory and Natural Connection

While the hustle and bustle of crowded beaches define the traditional summer imaginary, a growing movement on the North Coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, points to a redefinition of the vacation concept. Vacationers are increasingly swapping the obvious beachfront for campgrounds, driven by a conscious search for affective memory, a deeper connection with nature, and, undeniably, a more financially accessible alternative. This trend is not merely a matter of economics but a revival of values and genuine experiences that the camping lifestyle offers.

The routine in these retreats is an invitation to simplicity and immersion in the natural environment. The day begins with the sound of birds, the ritual of heating water on an adapted stove, and preparing the traditional chimarrão, all surrounded by lush greenery. For many Gaúcho families, such as that of businessman Robinson Nunes, this is the essence of summer vacationing. He, who grew up camping with his parents, is now committed to perpetuating this tradition with his own children, seeing the choice of camping not just as an economy, but as an investment in quality of life and the creation of new affective memories.

Economic viability is, without a doubt, a predominant factor. With daily rates starting at R$50 per person, campgrounds position themselves as a significantly more accessible option than traditional hotels or guesthouses, especially for larger families. Andrea Franzen, owner of a campground in Tramandaí that has been operating for over three decades, confirms this perception. "For a family of three or four people, it ends up being much more financially viable. The cost is better than staying in a hotel, which is why many people opt for camping," she explains. Andrea anticipates maximum occupancy for holidays like Carnival, repeating the success of the last New Year's Eve, which hosted over 100 tents.

But the appeal goes beyond the wallet; it is rooted in the life experience itself. Teacher Lenira Chiavagati, for instance, has frequented the same campground with her family for over 20 years. What began as a makeshift canvas tent has today transformed into a space resembling a cozy country house by the beach, witnessing the evolution of a lifestyle and a deep relationship with the place. Her son, Bernardo, 19, embodies the adaptability of this model. Working remotely, he found in camping the perfect combination of his professional responsibilities and leisure. "It's a completely different experience to be able to work here, with this view of the trees, feeling the wind. There's no comparison to being inside an office," he reports, highlighting the inherent quality of life in this choice.

To remain relevant and attract new audiences, many campgrounds have invested in diversifying activities. In one such space, kitesurf lessons have been incorporated into the program, taking advantage of the potential of the shallow and safe lagoons for beginners. Sil Scarpari, the owner, emphasizes inclusivity: "The lagoon is suitable, shallow, good for all ages." This innovation demonstrates the ability of campgrounds to go beyond the basics, offering adventure and new skills in a natural environment.

At the heart of this shift are life stories that redefine the meaning of home and happiness. Gustavo Pedro Maya, at 89, has lived in a campground for over two decades. His daily routine, which includes caring for plants, chatting with friends, and feeling the lagoon breeze, is a living testament to the peace and rejuvenation he has found. "23 years ago I came to live in this paradise, and here I rejuvenated. Before, I was unhappy. Happiness cannot be outsourced. I arrived here, was very well received, and I'm not leaving here, except in a coffin," he declares with a humor that reflects his contentment. His words encapsulate the essence of what many seek: a refuge where the simplicity of nature intertwines with the depth of human relationships and the rediscovery of the joy of living.

The phenomenon of campgrounds on the North Coast of Rio Grande do Sul transcends a mere accommodation option; it represents a conscious choice for a lifestyle that values authenticity, sustainability, and the richness of experiences over consumption and luxury. It is an invitation to slow down, feel the lagoon breeze, observe the animals, and reconnect with what is essential, proving that the true wealth of summer can be found in the simplicity of nature and the strength of the memories created.

Ekhbary News Agency