Sometimes a great summer vacation just isn't in the cards (or budget) this year, and that's ok. Luckily, a staycation is a great alternative and, if done correctly, can be just as relaxing as a vacation without the stress or price tag of a full blown get away. Staycations can save time, money and the headache of actually having to travel before starting your unwind time. Here are some tips to help make your staycation worth your while.
1. Ditch your surroundings
How do you expect to get in the relaxation mindset without a little change of venue. Whether this means staying at a five star hotel or simply crashing in your guest bedroom, getting out of your normal surroundings is key if you want your staycation to actually feel like a break.
2. Break up the routine
Nothing can put a damper on the staycation vibes like everything feeling like the same old same old. In order to truly enjoy your staycation you have to make sure you get out of your same old rut. Try hitting a new restaurant, exploring a secluded beach, or heading into a new part of town to ensure your staycation doesn't feel like just another day.
3. Say no to errands and busy work
One of the reasons going on vacation is great is because you get to pause all your responsibilities for the time being. For staycations to achieve this same mindset you have to vow to stop engaging in your everyday life. This means no running errands, no working and no obligations. A bit of planning ahead can ensure that you are prepared to stay-cate with the best of them, responsibility free.
4. Shut out the outside world
When you head to another country chances are you will be a little out of touch with your friends, what's going on at work and the goings on in your hometown. Being unplugged helps you relax, enjoy your surroundings and focus on the fun your having on your trip. To achieve this while staycationing keep your phone on airplane mode, don't check email, skip watching the news and instead focus on enjoying yourself.
5. Think twice about making plans with friends
While catching up with friends might seem like the perfect way to spend your staycation, proceed with caution. Unless your friends are from out of town or are also staycationing, chances are meeting up with them will drag you out of your staycation bliss and back into reality. Just because you're shutting out the world doesn't mean they are, and getting together with them most likely will just remind you of all the responsibilities waiting for you when you head back to work, school, etc. Instead, enjoy your time off with just the family or friends that you are staycationing with.
6. Treat yo' self
Vacations are a great chance to spoil yourself, and staycations should be too. You don't have to go too crazy, but make sure to give yourself one or two treats. Order dessert, get a massage, spend all day by the pool, get all dressed up for a night on the town --whatever it may be, be sure to include some fun in your staycation, guilt free.
7. Take a load off
Your staycation is sure to be a dud if you are too in your own head. Make sure to leave your bad attitude, judgment, or reservations at home. Instead stay positive, relaxed and be open to new things. If you can manage to do that, you'll be sure to enjoy yourself no matter what your doing.
Happy Staycationing!
