It looks like it’s going to be a while before we’ll be able to travel freely around the world. But, staying home and staying safe doesn’t mean you can’t get away from it all. All it takes is a little staycation imagination. Here are our six favorite ways to turn tomorrow into a staycation to remember.
1. Indulge in a spa day.
Let’s face it. The “new normal” is stressful. We all deserve a relaxing
spa day. Do it right. Order in extra supplies so you can try out a new
facial mask while giving your hair a
deep-conditioning treatment. Set up
a meditation room with soothing
music and download an app like Calm
or Headspace to take your relaxation
to the next level. To top off your day, light some candles, pour a glass of wine, and soak in a luxurious bubble bath.
2. Get a taste of the outside world.
Even though you’re cooped up at home, put the world on your menu. Whether you choose to flex your culinary capabilities or order take-out, go outside the ordinary at mealtime. Google recipes and order the ingredients to recreate favorite dishes from your last vacation. Or, with even the fanciest restaurants offering take-out and delivery options right now, try that new hard-to-get-into restaurant you’ve been hearing about. As a bonus, your dinner orders help support local businesses.
Take friends and family along, virtually. Invite them to join you for dinner via Zoom or Skype.
3. Camp in.
Get the whole family in on the fun. Pitch a tent in the living room and have an inside camp-out. Be as authentic as possible. Play wildlife sounds in the background, sing silly camp songs, and make s’mores around the fireplace.
If it’s permissible in your town, take a drive to a remote trail and go for a hike to complete the camping experience.
4. Binge-watch with a theme.
Movies can instantly transport you to faraway places. Pop some popcorn, fire up Netflix or Prime, and create an
in-house film festival with a travel theme. Start by enjoying the amazing scenery in Under the Tuscan Sun or Out of Africa. Then, take a trip to France by watching Amelie or A Good Year. And, if adventure is more your style, watch Encounters at the End of the World or Into the Wild.
5. Sightsee virtually.
While it’s never as good as in-person, a little online traveling is a perfect appetizer for future trips. With so many virtual tour options available, you can truly get away without leaving your house. Visit the Louvre one day. Explore the Great Wall of China. Plan a virtual trek through Yellowstone Park. They’re all just a few clicks away.
6. Expand your bucket list.
Do a little dreaming about where you want to go once travel restrictions are lifted. If you don’t have a travel bucket list, now’s the perfect time to create one. And, if you already have one, add a few more once-in-a-lifetime destinations to it. Need some inspiration? Read our past blog, “Why Bucket Lists Matter (and the one place every list should include),” and browse our amazing Trips of a Lifetime page.
For now, stay in. Stay safe. And, find staycation opportunities where you can. When it’s time to travel again, we’ll be here to help make your dreams come true.
