You don’t have to look very far to know that times are tough right now. People in America and other countries are feeling the pinch. High gas prices, dwindling home equity, and even electricity prices are just some of the reasons travelers are turning toward a more affordable way of getting away for a much needed vacation break.
It’s called a “staycation” and it’s the perfect alternative to stressful, expensive travel in a tough economy. This article will give you 7 great ideas for a fun and affordable getaway!
It’s a way of enjoying an adventure where you live. It’s pitching a tent in your own back yard, or even taking a relaxing weekend adventure to a place in your own state that you’ve always wanted to see, but never got around to it.
Many families are finding that they are having just as much enjoyment staying close to home having a staycation, than taking an expensive trip hundreds or thousands of miles away. The staycation is where it’s at!
So What Are A Few Great Staycation Ideas and tips?
1.Anything that gets you out of the house. Anything that requires no chores, no making the bed, no pulling weeds, and no arguing with airline reps or travel agents. A staycation is a vacation without the hassle!
2. Check your chamber of commerce website or call your state or city’s tourism department for upcoming special events and a list of local attractions like water parks, or rodeos.
3. Take a day tour of your city’s downtown area. Have you ever seen the movie “Ferris Bueller’s Day Off?” Ferris and his two friends took a staycation! Ponder this direct quote from the movie: “The question isn’t ‘what are we going to do today’, the question is ‘what AREN’T we going to do today”.
Ferris and his friends dined at the most expensive restaurant in Chicago, they test-drove a very fast vintage automobile, visited the Chicago Mercantile Exchange, attended a baseball game, admired the City from the observation deck of the Sears Tower, went to a local parade, and then enjoyed a relaxing dip in a Jacuzzi, then later a swim in the pool. All in one day.
4. Wherever you decide to go, take your camera or camcorder with you. Some of the most memorable things happen when you least expect them, and a small camera won’t take up a lot of space, and can capture those special moments.
5. Take a little time to plan where you want to go, and when you’ll return. Share this information to relatives or neighbors so they know when you’re due back, and they know where you are.
6. If you’re the outdoor type, plan your staycation where there are many local attractions like lakes, rodeos, interesting places to shop, and interesting things for the whole family to do.
7. Plan to stay over on your staycation? Consider renting instead of checking into a pricey hotel. It’s more affordable renting a home or renting a cabin instead of booking a hotel. You’ll get much more enjoyment, more freedom, and more value for your money.
As you can see, there are lots of things to do right in your own back yard. A little planning is all it takes to have lots of fun and become a tourist in your own home town!