Summer Travel Plans Quashed? Here are a Few Ideas for a Stellar Staycation

“I can’t change the direction of the wind, but I can adjust my sails to always reach my destination.”

– Jimmy Dean

Over the past few months, the coronavirus pandemic has quickly upended life for millions of people around the world, disrupting everything from the ability to go to work every day to summer travel plans. Whether you’re opting to stay home this summer as a precautionary measure or you’re simply seeking an easier, more budget-friendly way to unwind, a “staycation”—a planned period of leisure time spent at home or in your own city—offers a great alternative to traveling. Here are a few ideas for a summer staycation that will ensure you won’t miss hitting the road:

• Have an at-home spa day. Pampering yourself is one of the best ways to make your staycation feel relaxing and restorative. Gather the supplies you need for your favorite self-care measures, such as DIY manicures/pedicures, facials, a bubble bath (or a dip in the pool or hot tub if you have access to one)…or simply treat yourself to a long afternoon nap and some time lounging with your favorite book or show!

• – Schedule an outdoor movie night. Bring the classic drive-in movie theater experience to your own backyard by investing in a projector, hanging a white sheet against a flat surface, and gathering friends and family to watch your movie of choice. Be sure to set up a comfortable seating area and make some popcorn!

• Go camping in your own backyard. If you have the space, create a backyard getaway for the whole family by pitching a tent, making some s’mores and other camping trip favorites, and spending a night under the stars.

• Dine al fresco. Enjoying a meal on a restaurant’s patio is one of the simplest pleasures of summer. But whether restaurants near you remain closed due to the coronavirus or you’re simply opting to dine at home, you can easily recreate the restaurant patio experience with a little planning. Set up an outdoor table with dining utensils, candles, and your favorite decorations, play some background music, and either make a home-cooked meal or grab takeout from a local restaurant.

• Design your own film festival. An evening spent watching movies can offer the same sense of escapism as a vacation. Plan your festival by setting a theme—such as classics, horror flicks, romantic comedies, or foreign films (a great option if you have the travel bug!)—and procure the movies for your line-up. After watching, enhance the cinematic experience by discussing the films with your viewing buddies.

Sources: homelight.com & nar.realtor