With the concern of COVID-19 still top priority, many people are uncertain of what travel looks like in the near future. As vacations and family gatherings continue to get postponed, it’s more relevant than ever to start thinking about how to make a “stay-cation” feel special this year. Afterall, we all need a little break! Especially for our senior population, who have been spending more time than ever at home and indoors, consider these easy and low-cost ideas for making a vacation at home feel special and memorable.
Define your destination.
Sure, you’re staying home, but you can still make that feel special by making it a true destination. Will your home become a cozy cottage in South Carolina? Or a mountain getaway in Colorado? If you’re by the lake or sea, even better! Get creative and have fun with mentally traveling to your stay-cation destination. Best of all, traffic and airport delays are completely avoided.
Breakaway from your normal routine.
Although you’re still at home, don’t let yourself fall back into a normal routine. Determine how long you want to spend on your stay-cation and mark it on your calendar. During these dates, switch up your routine with a new breakfast menu, wearing different types of clothes, and trying new activities you wouldn’t normally do during a standard day.
Pack a bag!
It may feel silly doing it, but packing a back for your stay-cation will help you feel like you’re headed somewhere special. Think about what you want to wear each day based on what you plan to do. Pick special clothes you wouldn’t normally wear – and don’t forget the accessories! If you have more than one bedroom in your home, consider moving into it for your stay-cation just like you would a hotel room or vacation rental. The slightly different change in scenery will make things feel different and special.
Have a special activity lined up for each day.
Make every day unique with at least one activity that structures the day. Try being a tourist in your own town. If someone was new to the area, what attractions would they want to see in a week? Try out a new restaurant, visit a scenic spot, or stroll down main street with the new point of view of a tourist. You’ll be amazed by how places you’ve driven by countless times before take on a whole new look!
Plan theme dinners.
When you return home from the day’s activities, make the evening a special celebration with themed dinner menus that make each day stand out. Try food from different cultures, order take-out from an authentic Indian or Thai cuisine, or make it interactive with an online cooking class. Be sure to theme your attire and table setting to make it even more fun and unique!
Make family and friends a part of the experience.
Vacations are always more fun with others! Consider hosting family or friends for a day or two on your stay-cation. You’ll be able to see your home and community through their eyes. You could also meet them for lunch or dinner and enjoy a meal together. With family and friends visiting you throughout your stay-cation, you’ll have something to look forward to each day and memories you can look back on.
If you’re looking for ways to make your home feel more like a destination vacation, we hope these ideas have offered you some inspiration. With staying home remaining the safest option to avoid exposure to COVID-19 and other illnesses, a stay-cation can afford you a nice break from your routine without risking your health.
