With the stress of a break-neck schedule working two jobs and the worries of a wavering stock market, skyrocketing gas prices, and home foreclosures, folks need a vacation now more than ever. Yet, in the midst of these omens of recession, many are hesitant to spend the small fortune it would cost to fuel the car for a nice trip away from it all.
However, families can create a relaxing retreat right at home and, as an added bonus, avoid packing, long drives, flight delays, rental car hassles, and lost luggage as well.
Planning a Vacation at Home
We sometimes tend to overlook the parks, museums, and historical districts right in our own backyard. Do some research on your area or contact the local Chamber of Commerce. You may discover opportunities you never thought about before. Many of the things you love to do on a trip can be done right at home but be sure to plan plenty of time for doing absolutely nothing at all.
Before your vacation begins, take care of all errands and chores so you won’t be tempted to do them while you’re supposed to be resting. Clean the house, do the laundry, mow the lawn just as if you’re leaving town. Then stock the kitchen with comfort foods.
Cut, or at least screen, all communication with the outside world. Don’t take phone calls or handle mail. You wouldn’t do these things if you were away from home. Resolve, repeat resolve, to do no work and to leave all your worries for the week after.
Ideas for Home Vacations
- Lounge by the pool with a tropical drink and a good book.
- Watch movies and play board games (they’re more relaxing than video games).
- Soak in a bubble bath with candles and music.
- Choose a local attraction that you’ve never been to and spend some time exploring. New experiences refresh the soul. If it’s someplace new, it won’t matter that it’s 2 miles away and not 2000.
- Dress up and go out to that expensive restaurant you’ve never been to. A different place will mimic the atmosphere of a getaway far from the daily grind. And the money you save on transportation will more than offset the cost.
- Pamper yourself with a relaxing massage or spa treatment.
- Picnic or camp out in the backyard or a nearby park. Sing and roast marshmallows around the fire pit.
- Take a night or two just to count the stars or simply gaze into the beauty of a night sky.
- Get a local hotel room and indulge yourself with room service.
- Sleep late, go to bed early. Take a nap in between.
At the end of the week, you’ll be relaxed and refreshed. You won’t need the infamous ‘vacation from your vacation’ and you’ll be minus the stress of a strained budget.
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