No Plans For Spring Break? Try These Tried-and-True Tips For a Memorable Staycation

Staycations have been gaining momentum since the pandemic, and with consumer fears about spending at an all-time high, the trend is likely to keep growing. With the rise of remote work, concerns about inflation, and a renewed focus on local experiences, many are opting for staycations as a convenient and economical way to explore their surroundings while indulging in much-needed relaxation.

Fortunately, it’s also easier than ever to plan a memorable spring break staycation right in your own backyard. Consider these tried-and-true ideas:

• Rediscover Your City's Hidden Gems: Take this time to explore the lesser-known attractions and hidden gems in your city. Sites like Groupon, Yelp, and Pinterest can help you find unique attractions that you haven’t tried before. Whether it's a quaint neighborhood café, a scenic hiking trail, or a vibrant cultural festival, there's no shortage of local experiences waiting to be discovered. By trying something new, you get to experience your city again for the first time.

• Plan a Relaxing Spa Day at Home: Transform your home into a sanctuary of relaxation by indulging in a DIY spa day. Treat yourself to luxurious facials, soothing massages, and rejuvenating bath rituals, all from the comfort of your own home. It will give you a break from your routine that will feel like a special treat. You can usually find everything you need on Amazon for a fraction of the cost of actually going to the spa.

• Embrace Culinary Adventures: Channel your inner foodie by embarking on a culinary journey. You may not even need to leave your kitchen.. Experiment with new recipes, host a themed dinner party, or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, embark on a foodie tour of your city's culinary hotspots. By trying a different type of cooking, or seeking out types of foods that are different from the norm, you can almost pretend that you’re vacationing in an exotic location.

• Unwind with Subscription Experiences: I’m sure you’re no stranger to the joys of subscriptions (hello, Netflix!). But, there are still so many new options to explore that bring the joys of travel and adventure right to your doorstep. According to research by Recurly, there’s a growing demand for personalized subscription experiences, which means that there’s a world of possibilities just waiting to be discovered. From gourmet food boxes and craft cocktail kits to virtual cooking classes and outdoor adventure subscriptions, there's a subscription for every interest and passion.

• Immerse Yourself in Cultural Experiences: Dive into the cultural history of your city by attending local art exhibitions, live performances, and museum tours. Check the arts and events sections of your local news for opportunities to immerse yourself and gain a newfound appreciation for your community's cultural heritage.

• Get Your Nature On: Make the most of the spring weather by embracing outdoor activities such as picnics in the park, cycling along scenic trails, heading to the beach, or paddleboarding on nearby lakes. Research suggests that spending time in nature is good for both your physical and mental well-being, and can have profound impacts on reducing your stress level.  Reconnecting with nature is a great way to make the most of a staycation.

• Host a Movie Marathon: You don’t need to travel to Hollywood to have a star-studded staycation. Transform your living room into a private cinema and indulge in a movie marathon featuring your favorite films or binge-worthy TV series. Stock up on popcorn, cozy blankets, and your favorite snacks for the ultimate movie night experience. If you’re feeling social, you can even invite your favorite people to join you, and make a whole event out of it.

• Practice Mindfulness and Self-Care: Self-care is a buzz word for a reason - it works! Take this opportunity to prioritize your mental and emotional well-being through mindfulness practices such as meditation, yoga, and journaling. Set aside time each day for self-care activities that nourish your soul and promote inner peace. Listening to music, stretching, and sitting quietly with your favorite beverage can also be mindful and rejuvenating.

• Plan a DIY Home Makeover: Home projects might seem counterintuitive to relaxation, but sometimes sprucing up your space can be a great way to breathe life into your routine. Whether it's repainting walls, rearranging furniture, or creating a cozy reading nook, a home makeover can breathe fresh energy into your surroundings.

• Connect with Loved Ones: Use your staycation as an opportunity to strengthen bonds with family and friends. You don’t have to hop on an airplane to have a family reunion. If your friends and family live far away, host a virtual game night, or schedule video calls with loved ones to catch up. If your loved ones live close by, plan a day outing or host a party to reconnect and create cherished memories together.

Traveling for spring break is pretty fantastic. But so is discovering the myriad ways to cut loose, recharge, and indulge in local experiences without ever leaving home. By embracing the art of staycationing, you can create unforgettable moments, foster a deeper connection with your local community, and indulge in some much needed fun and relaxation.