Summer Staycation Ideas

published July 26, 2012

Rating: (36 Ratings)

What do you do when you need a vacation but your budget is tight? You book a staycation. Plan it so that you feel you’ll get the right mix of rest and rejuvenation doing things you normally don’t get a chance (or make time!) to do.

When planning your staycation, list the types of activities that you usually like to do when on vacation. (Typically, sightseeing and dining are at the top of the list.) Then, prioritize and book events for your week off that will help you feel restful and pampered. It’ll feel good to remove yourself from your everyday existence. Remember, a change is as good as a rest, so the saying goes…

Here are some ideas for what to do during your staycation:

Tourist in town
Find a landmark in the city you’ve always wanted to go to and explore it. If budget is a worry, call in advance to see if there are any free days or budget days for half price. Many museums and art galleries have at least one free day or cut rate day. Perhaps if it’s not a landmark but a touristy part of town, combine the outing with some leisurely shopping and lunch. Most major cities have many ethnically diverse enclaves that offer up both unique shops and restaurants.

Foodie staycation

So food is your major passion? Then make it a point to eat out once every day, but change it up. Go for breakfast at a little French bakery and leave with some indulgent baked goods. Book a lunch reservation with a friend or your significant other. Check online to see what bargains are available from the myriad of voucher signups, from Groupon to Dealicious, and have a leisurely dinner out. If there’s a country you’ve always wanted to visit, seek out the best restaurant in town that serves up their culinary specialties!

Culture maven

If music is your groove, get out for an afternoon concert or an outdoor music event. Every major city seems to have at least one Jazz ‘n Blues festival, as well as classical concerts and venues that suit multiple musical styles, many times free of charge.

Picnic in the city

Pack a lunch of your favourite fixings and head out for a lazy day in the park or at a beach. You can even plan a BBQ if the venue allows it. Why not mix up some homemade sangria and invite some friends to join you?

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