As the cost of travel has increased in the past several years, more and more families have opted to spend time closer to home on a "staycation". Staycationing provides a win-win experience for local economies and families; people stay close to home and support local business and services while saving time and money. In a series of articles, Suzanne C. Walker will explore some staycation spots in and near central Indiana. You don't have to travel far to experience the feeling of getting away from it all.
The concept of staycationing (or vacationing at home) has enjoyed increasing population since 2007, when high unemployment rates and record-high fuel costs forced many families to eschew high-mileage travel. Although a staycation could be planned around relaxing at home, by definition, staycationing is a pre-planned experience distinct from normal routine. Experts encourage families to sit down and plan their staycation in the same way they'd plan for an away-from-home vacation.
Set a start-date for your staycation, as well as an end-date. Arrange for time off work. if you're able, to fully experience a vacation routine. Brainstorm a list of attractions in your area as a family. This includes places to see, things to do, and even restaurants that you'd like to try. Visit old favorites, but be sure to check out websites like ThingsToDo for ideas about off-the-beaten-track places and activities. Complete as much of your cleaning and laundry routines as you can before an official start of your staycation, so that you're not stressed out about the mountain of laundry on the floor or the lawn growing above your knees. Don't forget to follow suggestions for surviving your vacation with kids to really maximize family fun.
Enjoy yourself! If your schedule gets disrupted, or you find yourself needing to make changes to your planned activities, just go with the flow. Relax, and remember that you are on vacation! Watch for a series of articles on staycation destinations in and around Central Indiana. And above all, don't forget the camera; record your staycation memories to add to your scrapbook - surely the staycation that you enjoy will be one your family remembers for a lifetime.
Comments
I really look forward to hearing more about this since we're not planning much of a summer vacation this year!
This si the first summer we won't be visiting my family overseas. My kids have been really bummed about "just staying at home", but your article really inspired me. I love the idea of sitting down and planning fun activities like for a real vacation. And maybe my husband can take a few days off work and we can be turists in our own town.
These are great ideas! I'm looking forward to more!
These are great ideas, we need something to break up the monotiny of summer break.
Got something to say?
Examiner.com is looking for writers, photographers, and videographers to join the fastest growing group of local insiders. If you are interested in growing your online rep apply to be an Examiner today!