Maybe you don’t have the budget or the time to jet off to Fiji or take a bucket-list vacation of any type, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy a getaway. If you’ve been stuck in the same routine, it’s time to get out of that rut and plan the perfect staycation, a fun alternative that can be affordable too.
For those who’ve recently purchased one of the Albany houses for sale or anywhere else, this kind of escape can also be an ideal way to get to know your new city. Here’s how to plan it.
Set a Budget
Before you do anything you’ll want to know how much money you have to spend. As there are no airline tickets to buy and you won’t have to spend much at the gas pump, you might be able to splurge on some things you normally wouldn’t.
Figure Out What You’d Like to Do
The next step is knowing what you’d like to do, whether it is spending the entire time at a hotel or resort, exploring city cultural attractions, or taking part in outdoor adventures like hiking. Now choose the “where” based on a spot nearby that offers what you’re looking for. If you’re stuck and aren’t sure what you’d like to do, a Google search on the “best staycations near XYZ town” is sure to turn up plenty of options.
Book Accommodation
Since you should have more money in your budget for accommodation without having to spend on airfare, consider staying in a nicer hotel, one that has plenty of amenities, making you feel like you’re somewhere far away on vacation. That might mean a luxurious spa, a pool, golf course, or special activities like cooking classes. Or maybe there’s an all-inclusive resort nearby so you won’t have to pay for anything other than the nightly rate? If you want to play tourist in your city, choose a central hotel that’s within easy reach of your must-do or must-see list.
Another option is a vacation rental that provides a different perspective of your town. Maybe there’s something in a neighborhood you haven’t explored or something unique like a houseboat rental. Depending on the area in which you live, there may be rentals that come with lots of amenities like kayaks so you can spend your days paddling on a lake and your evenings soaking in a hot tub for romantic nights under the stars. Of course, if your budget is really tight and you enjoy the outdoors, camping is an option too.
Try New Restaurants
You probably have your usual favorites, but a staycation can be the perfect time to try something different. Check out some of the new dining spots or eateries that your friends have recommended but you haven’t tried yet.
Take a Break From Your Responsibilities
If you have kids, or fur babies, consider getting a sitter so that you can enjoy a break from it all. And even better, go unplugged as much as possible so you can forget about work and all of your other responsibilities. That’s a real staycation.