For my part, I travel not to go anywhere, but to go. I travel for travel’s sake. The great affair is to move.
~ Robert Louis Stevenson ~
Staycation
I am not a fan of the word staycation, the notion of saving money by vacationing close to home, but I do like the concept. As the economy continues to struggle, many of us have been forced to make cuts in our budgets; discretionary items are always the first to go. Unfortunately, too often that means a canceled family vacation; however, the need for a change of scenery does not disappear simply because we cannot afford it. A staycation offers an acceptable alternative.
For a staycation to work, you must be creative and willing to think outside of the box. You are the architect of your vacation. Will you be a taking a week off, a long weekend, a Sunday afternoon, or perhaps a month of Saturdays? Engage your traveling partners in the preparation; let everyone be involved in researching what you might all enjoy doing, and how to execute your break. You must then decide how far you are able and willing to go, and what your budget will be. By knowing the limitations ahead of time, you will eliminate disappointment and frustration when you begin to set your itinerary.
Most of us live near something to see, whether it is a beautiful beach or mountain range, a state park or a historical landmark which we can visit for free or for a relatively small amount of money – the perfect staycation. Also, do not overlook activities which you enjoy. Is your family wild about fishing or bowling? Why not set up a family tournament? At the end of four weeks, who ever has caught the largest fish or amassed the highest score gets to pick a restaurant for a family celebration. Are you movie fanatics? What about a weekend of everyone’s favorite movies, or all of a favorite actors movies, ordering only takeout? How about a perfect picnic or a day at a state fair? Have you ever wanted to see how glass is made or go white water rafting? Truly, the possibilities are endless.
The secret to a successful staycation is you! Instead of lamenting the trip which you can not now take, think of alternative ways to enjoy a bit of time off with the people you love. I do believe that the important thing is to go. Do not overlook seasonal festivals and other public gatherings like firework displays and outdoor concerts where you can walk around and perhaps share a few goodies or find a place to enjoy a picnic lunch, and still take pleasure in the festivals, having spent very little money.
As you start to plan your holiday make a list of attractions and activities within your previously agreed area. Find out what fees are involved in each site, as well as the hours of operation and any restrictions which may impact your visit. As you narrow your list, focus on things which appeal to you, after all this is a vacation. If your plans necessitate a night or two away from home, consider camping, hotels which offer family discounts, and of course long lost family and friends.
In order for you to truly enjoy your staycation, you must mentally step outside of your daily life. Consider giving cell phones, emails, and texting a break for a few days, do not look at your bills or even think about cleaning the house or chores in general – work is not part of the staycation.
The great affair really is to move. I know that life’s demands can make it difficult and that time is money and there is the price of gas, and parking, and tolls, and of course peanut butter sandwiches, but it is worth it to make the effort. Getting out of your house, even for a short drive and a day outside will lift your spirits nourish your body, and your soul. That is all for now.
One of our best weekends was last years “Staycation.” We took Aaron to see Serpent Mound in southern Ohio. A Place I had been trying to get my whole life. It was pretty amazing. I have always been facinated by it. I did a report on it in grade school. 🙂 We went to the fair in Washington Court house which blew our budget. It was a pretty healthy entrance fee. It was something we did not research before we left. Big mistake 🙂 We also went to Chateau LaRouche, which was the higlight of the trip for Aaron. You can read about it here http://lovelandcastle.com/ I am all about travling close to home, and checking out things that can be done in your own back yard. Which is not to say that I am not a fan of big trips, just that I find the smaller trips are generally less wearing, and more frequent.