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With summer practically here, you can count on seeing your social media feeds full of people heading off to vacation. As awesome as this is for them, you might not be able to do the same. Maybe you’re in the process of paying down a debt or saving up for something big.
This doesn’t mean you can’t use those vacation days.
Bali and Dubai might not be in the cards for you right now, but one goal we should all aim to achieve is taking a small vacation during the year.
Have you ever taken a staycation?
Some might consider it a poor man’s vacation, but I beg to differ. As much as I love fluffy hotel pillows and room service there really is no place like home. In fact, many of us don’t take the time to explore our local town and neighborhoods that are full of fun activities and things to do.
If you’re unable to leave your area but still want to take a few days off, consider a staycation. Here are some ways to enjoy one.
Hit up local tourism. Your town or state tourism department is full of resources and discounts you can use. Inquire about a brochure for more tips and ideas regarding things to do, places to eat and where to go. You might even find a few coupons that will come in handy.
Go in on a vacation rental. Do you live near a beach, resort or lake? If so, you’ve just discovered a destination for your summer vacation. Check rental homes you can rent by the week and consider splitting the cost with a friend or two. Who says you have to leave the area to enjoy the good life?
House sit. No really have you thought about this? Check local listings online or do a friend a favor while they’re away on a vacation of their own. House sitting gives you the chance to experience new digs without having to shell out a ton of money for a hotel. If you’re lucky, you might just score a home with a pool or breathtaking views.
Retreat to a spa for a day. Nothing screams “pamper me” like a trip to the spa. Spend some time enjoying luxuries like a long massage, facial, mud bath or anything else that tickles your interest. Yes trips to the spa aren’t always cheap, but in comparison to a full-on vacation, it can be more affordable.
If all else fails, feel free to stay at home. Believe it or not, there are a few ways to transform your home into a staycation getaway. Put up the “gone fishing” sign and enjoy a week or few days in your own house. You can order takeout, have a movie marathon, or turn a guest bedroom into a private retreat.
One of my favorite things to do with my family is try out flash sales around the area. Not only can I save some money but also get a chance to do something new and different. It might not be a fancy cruise, but sometimes you have to play the hand your dealt. No one says a vacation has to be at an exotic locale.
What would you do on a staycation?
