02 Sep 10 Save Money By Taking A Stay At Home Vacation

Families used to count on going on vacation once a year, but many are finding it too costly to travel on holiday these days. Even if you can’t afford a get-away this year, there are still many exciting activities you can indulge in for fun. Vacations might not be an option this year, so try a staycation. Here are some ideas to whet your appetite.

Give one room of your house a whole new look by updating it during your staycation. Get daring with color, polishing fixtures and reconfiguring the furniture layout. Turn your bedroom into an oasis and add romantic touches, like red velvet pillows and fresh flowers in a gem-studded vase. You’ll be amazed at the difference a few accessories can make in your room.

Get out and explore a museum, library or local art gallery for a day of culture. Check out historic sites near your town and investigate what it is that makes your city or state special. New Jersey is the “Garden State,” and Missouri is the “Show me State,” so go to the bookstore and find out why this is so. Not only will you learn something about your state, you’ll have fun doing research as you do.

Schedule a day of you-time by going to a day spa, perhaps even getting a manicure and pedicure. Make time for a massage, and get your hair done in a different, dramatic style. You might consider changing the color of your hair or adding highlights. If you’re open to the idea, you may want to try out a henna tattoo.

Set a theme to be followed on each night of your week off. ‘Picture day” would entail seeing a movie at the theatre, complete with popcorn and candy, then a rented movie for later that night. Before the day is over, get out your digital camera and capture that beautiful sunset. “Animal day” could start off with a visit to the zoo, then a night of watching animal shows on t.v. “Sports day” could be a day of throwing the football around with your kids, then renting “Rudy” to watch later on.

Get outdoors and get active, weather permitting. Hiking is a great way to soak in beautiful scenery while also getting a nice workout. Camping out with friends under the stars can make you feel connected to nature for an old-fashioned and low-tech adventure. See if your group can do it without any of the usual luxuries that have become necessities, such as cell phones, PDAs, and portable games. Try to connect with each other and the wild at the same time.

Even if money is tight for you right now, it is certainly possible to enjoy your time off from work without traveling far or spending a fortune. Looking around the area in which you live, you’ll find interesting sights to visit and things to do that don’t require much travel. Take a chance on a staycation instead of a vacation, and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at how much fun you’ll have.

Ellen Parsons has written dozens of articles on accredited online colleges and online universities for mid-career professionals.

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