If a trip abroad isn’t on the cards for you, it’s still important to take your time off. Instead of visiting another country, you could try planning a staycation instead. Some people might feel this sounds a little boring in comparison to heading abroad, but it definitely doesn’t have to be that way! There are several ways to spice up your staycation to make a local break just as fun as long-haul.

Sometimes I do use time off to catch up on all the little jobs at home. However, I definitely find that getting out of the everyday routine brings as many benefits as a trip away. I’m sharing a few ways to make your staycation memorable, restful and just as fun as any other holiday!

Act Like a Tourist

If you live in a town or city, its easy to take the sights, destinations and entertainment options for granted. I live in a city and always say I’ll visit some of these places, but just end up getting on with my busy life and not taking the time to do so. A staycation in your own city or nearby is a chance to see where you live from a different perspective. We do these things in other countries and cities, so why not our own?

Acting like a tourist in your local area might help you discover new favourites! Look up your area on TripAdvisor to see the top attractions or try some recommendations you haven’t gotten round to. It’s time to pick out a few that you haven’t tried and give them a go! Consider including museums, national parks, restaurants, bars or fun activities that are within a few miles of where you live.

If you want to budget on the food and drink element without compromising on the tourist experience, you could plan to have some snacks or street food as part of your day. Check the top-rated places on Google or social channels. You might even discover a new favourite that will become a regular!

Add Another Dimension to you Staycation

One quick and easy way to step out of your routine on staycation is to add something out of the ordinary. Push yourself a little out of your comfort zone and try something you’ve always wanted to but haven’t had the time or courage to do. 

If you’re planning to take some time with your partner, you could consider spicing up your break by visiting a play party. You can take it as far as you want, even just chatting with other couples online or getting some inspiration. It could just be chatting with other couples online, getting some new ideas for you and your partner, attending events or meeting up with new people. For those going solo, you could also seek out opportunities to meet someone new. 

It doesn’t have to be about sex or romance, though. It could be increasing your yoga practice, testing out going vegan or looking after a friend or family member’s pet for a week or two.

Learn Something New

You can give your staycation a focus by choosing something new to learn. Not only will it get your brain fired up, but you’ll also boost your creativity, which leads to dopamine hits and lots of fun. Holidays should be refreshing and restful, but sometimes, picking up a new practice delivers the same benefits.

There’s no need to pile on the pressure. You can pick something quick and easy, like learning to cook a new dish. If you prefer more of a challenge, explore more adventurous options. A language course, an art workshop, archery lessons or a beer brewing demonstration could pique your interest! Books and online resources are brilliant, but learning something new is also an excuse to get out of the house. You could also widen your social circle in the process.

Making Slowing Down Deliberate

If one of the reasons you’re planning a staycation is to save money, then this route will suit you. Slowing down doesn’t cost anything, and it gives you that relaxed and content feel that you might get from a trip to a new city or country. 

When you choose a less-is-more approach, you get to stop and notice everything. Instead of being in planning and rushing around mode, you can savour each of your days off. It’s time well spent, even if you’re not doing much at all. 

You won’t be sitting watching paint dry, though. There are several activities that can be part of your slow staycation. Watching the sunrise or sunset is a great option. Walking in your garden, drinking your favourite hot drink with no rush, or just listening to the sounds of the season can make you feel present in your life.

Celebrate Your Region

A staycation can give you a new appreciation for everything that’s on your doorstep. We’re not talking about parks and museums this time. Instead, focus on what makes your town, county or region famous. You could start with the history and the people and learn more about it.

One of the best ways to appreciate where you live is to find local products. It could be famous for its pies, carpets, pottery or clothing. Even if you don’t buy something, you can visit a local shop or showroom to admire the craftsmanship. Tasting locally sourced food and drink will certainly add to the celebration. Cheeses, wines, fruit and vegetables or local recipes all fit the bill. If you’re on a tight budget, try visiting a nature reserve to understand, enjoy and help protect local habitats.

Why Take a Staycation?

There are loads of compelling reasons to take a staycation. Now, you know that it doesn’t have to be boring, it can be something you look forward to. When you’re slowing down or learning something new, you’ll find it’s an ideal opportunity to rest and recharge your batteries. 

Getting to the airport, security checks and the flight there and back can take up a day or more of your holiday. Staying put means you get to have your home comforts, and you don’t waste a lot of time travelling. 

Many people take a staycation to save money. You’ll still need a budget for food and activities, but it can be much easier to manage. The travel costs are limited. You can cook and use ingredients at home, and you won’t need a new staycation wardrobe just for the occasion!

LL x

*This is a contributed post. As ever, all opinions are my own.