Alaska Vacation 6/07 by mattbaron, on flickr
The concept of a “staycation,” sticking close to home as opposed to traveling, has become quite popular in recent years. With fuel costs and airline ticket prices on the rise, many opt for the convenient – and less stressful – alternative of staying at home. However, making the most of a staycation and actually treating it as a vacation can be a bit tricky. Curious about how to make the most of your time at home? Here are a few tips for getting into the vacation mindset.
- Make a plan. “Decide up front what you want to have at the end of the vacation,” says Diane Brennan, life coach and president of the International Coach Federation. Though it’s easy to fall into the pattern of lounging around and watching television all day, make sure this is how you want to spend your time. By scheduling activities, you’ll actually feel more refreshed at the end. (Surprising but true!)
Vacation 290 by spilltojill, on flickr
- Unplug, at least for a little while. While it might be tempting to answer just one email or return a work-related phone call, we all know it can be hard to stop once you’ve started. So, if you can, refrain from checking work-related emails while at home. In an interview with CNN, Brennan recommended “letting co-workers know that you’ll get back to them when you return from staycation, just as you would if you were removed from the technology.”
- Think like a tourist. Is there a museum in your town you’ve always wanted to visit, or a new restaurant you’re dying to try? Now’s your chance! Take day trips to neighboring cities or pack up your camping gear and spend a night under the stars. You could also try taking a class, such as cooking or knitting. We’re lucky in Maine that there are so many activities right in our backyard. My personal favorite is venturing out to the islands in Casco Bay. Though they are just a short boat ride away, the trip truly feels like an adventure.
Tell us, what are your favorite “staycation” activities? We’d love to hear!
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