With travel plans on hold due to COVID 19, many of us had to cancel our summer vacation. But, not all is lost. You don’t need to visit far flung destinations to feed your sense of adventure! Most people haven’t explored their own backyard! Now’s the time for a staycation.
An unforgettable weekend is waiting in your own hometown.
Here are tips to plan a fun staycation!
Mark Dates on the Calendar
As you would with any vacation, choose the dates and mark your calendar. Make sure family events or previously scheduled commitments won’t interfere with your plans.
Next, begin searching for gentrified neighborhoods which offer hidden attractions. A great source is Atlas Obscura . They profile unusual attractions and sites in cities nationwide. I’ve referenced their online content numerous times when traveling and found the recommendations to be lots of fun.
Rent an Airbnb or Hotel Room
We all need to get out of the house! A change of scenery is good. Rent an Airbnb or hotel room in a neighborhood you’ve always dreamed of living.
Try the city life at a downtown high-rise hotel, or enjoy a quaint Airbnb cottage in the country.
I’ve rented Airbnbs around the world — from Paris, France to Seattle, Washington. This allows me to live like a local. Charming boutique hotels and their many amenities are also fun. I like to alternate between Airbnbs and hotels when I travel.
Try a New Restaurant
No need to leave your city to try cuisine from other countries. Lots of local ethnic restaurants welcome diners to try flavors from other lands. I find the small, family run, hole in the wall is usually best. Immigrants put their heart and soul into the preparation. Food is the consummate unifier. Gathering for a meal is the great equalizer and shows us how similar we are.
During your staycation experience new foods from around the world.
Think of your city as a global culinary treat. Have breakfast in one neighborhood, and dinner in another. You many find a new favorite place to become a regular.
Be a Tourist
We’re usually too busy with daily responsibilities to explore our own city. A staycation is the perfect opportunity to look at your area through the eyes of a tourist. Book a tour with a local guide.
A good resource is Tours By Locals. They provide private, outdoor tours.
Guides wear masks, provide hand sanitizer, and social distance from guests as you explore your hometown. View architecture and hear about its origin. Learn about historical sites and landmarks. You’re sure to gain more knowledge about the town where you live.
Sign up for an activity you’ve always wanted to try. Rock climbing, outdoor photography or ski lessons, a mountain biking tour. Now is the time to tap into your adventurous side.
Towards the end of the day, enjoy a sunset. Grab a blanket and take-out food, then find a romantic spot to watch the sun sink into the horizon.
Leave the Car at Home
During your staycation take another mode of transportation. For shot jaunts, rent a bike. Longer distances, take an Uber. Fewer cars on the road helps reduce pollution and gives you a break from driving. Win, win.
Public transportation is another option. Subway, bus, and trolley are all good ways to give you a different view of the your city.
When I ride the transit system in my hometown of San Diego, I pass through neighborhoods I’ve never visited. It gives me ideas for places to return in the future.
Planning a staycation is easy. It allows you to get off the grid, unwind, and spend quality time in your own neck of the woods.
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