A break from it all, no matter how short, is necessary for the well-being of the body and soul. The American Psychological Association cites: "Clearing your head with a vacation can make it easier to deal with and help fend off symptoms of anxiety, stress, and depression. Vacations have also been linked to lower heart disease."
If you really need a mini-vacation, but need to stay in town, we're recommending an Airbnb staycation to help you relax from the comfort of your hometown. If this sounds like it's on the menu for you, here are some tips to make your staycation feel like a vacation.
See 8 Fun & Easy Ways to Turn your Airbnb Staycation into a Vacation
1. Relax with a Mini Spa Experience
If you typically visit spas whenever you're on vacation, you should try replicating one yourself. Bring out the scented candles, warm up some fresh bath towels, drop in the bath bombs and salts. Put on the facial mask and run yourself a bubble bath with your favorite book and soothing music.
Alternatively, you can spend the day teaching yourself the manicure and pedicure, exfoliating your body, or detoxifying facial scrub.
2. Become a Tourist in Your Own City
If you opt for a staycation at an Airbnb in your city, you can take the time to go around the city. Most people don't appreciate the things around them, but a staycation could be a time to reacquaint your environment.
Take some time to explore your city, and visit any local businesses, tourist attractions, and parks you’ve not visited before. Everyone in the family can take turns to choose their desired places for the visit.
Pro tip: An article published in June 2016 in Scientific Reports shows that people who spend quality time in green spaces tend to have lower rates of depression and high blood pressure. For added advantage, consider visiting green spaces like parks.
3. Tell Your Work to "Beat It"
One of the allures of a vacation is disconnecting with the phone calls, work texts, and emails. But if you're just on the other side of town, disconnecting from these stressors may be challenging, especially if you're within reach of people who know you.
A staycation should be treated like a vacation. And that involves blocking off time in your calendar, setting up automatic email responses, and telling everyone you won’t be available for meetings or phone calls.
As a general rule, switch off your computer, and decide to be far from your phone. If there is someone who is helping out with your kids, or pets, or filling in for you in the workplace, try giving all the support they need, and get in touch only when necessary.
4. Go ‘Camping’ in Your Backyard (or Living Room)
Grab your flashlight and sleeping bag, a book or journal and set up a tent. You can spice up your camping experience by playing a nature soundtrack on your speaker or phone. If you have a backyard and the weather is favorable, you should pack your camping supplies and set up your camp in the open.
Don't forget to bring some sticks and marshmellows, while you're at it. Pop a seat on the kitchen island with a blanket, turn on the tube and cook up a few over the stove.
Think a book retreat might be the way? Check out these tips to host the perfect book retreat at an Airbnb
5. Have a Movie Night
A movie night is a great way to bond with your family. Turn off the lights, pull out the blankets and cushions, grab some popcorn, and spend the night watching movies. Family members can take turns in choosing a movie.
6. Bring Your Vacation Destination to You
If you're unable to go to your dream destination, you can bring the destination to your home. And doing that is simple and cost-effective. For instance, if your dream destination is Italy, you can bring Italy to your home by playing Italian music, eating Italian food, drinking Italian wine, and seeing a show or a movie based in Italy.
If you have some extra cash, consider even ordering/bringing a few goods or trinkets from Italy. Making these little changes can impact your overall staycation experience.
There are a plethora of fun gaming options available for both a small or larger night (depending on your family size). Classic board games like Chess, Mad Libs, Uno, Backgammon, Scrabble, or Monopoly are a staple choice. You could also try modern party games like Taboo, trivia, and murder mystery kits. Virtual reality play and video game tournaments are also great alternatives.
DIYers can try a treasure hunt or DIY scavenger hunt where you go on an adventure around the home.
Or try one of our famous Murder Mystery Party Ideas for your friend's night out.
8. Go Hike a Trail.
Taking a hike or visiting a national park near you is a thrilling way to spend some time during your staycation. Put on some comfortable clothing and shoes, pack a bag with some water, headphones, gloves, sunglasses, blanket and snacks, and go for a hike.
There are probably lots of natural areas and hiking trails to explore within your community. And you can do all these without going far. Hiking is a great way of getting some fresh air and engaging in some physical activity whilst basking in nature.
Why a Staycation May be the Right Choice for You.
A staycation comes with lots of benefits — it saves cost, reduces stress, and helps you explore local attractions within your community. It's also a great opportunity to bond with your family and loved ones. By focusing on experiences and activities that cater to your needs and interests, you will create a rejuvenating and memorable staycation that matches a regular vacation. Staycations are what you make of it.
So, what are you waiting for? Invite your friends and family to join and have a thrilling weekend, hunting for clues, interviewing suspects, and solving exciting murder mysteries at a historic venue in Texas.
Considering hosting your Airbnb staycation at Olde House in Wylie, TX? Book now
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