Have you been itching to leave your house after almost an entire year of COVID restrictions? Do you want a change of scenery but without having to deal with other people? Well, if you’ve been stuck at home for so long that you can point out even the most translucent stain on your wallpaper, it might be time for you to schedule a staycation. It’s been a long year. You deserve one.
When most people think of staycations, the first thing that comes to mind is hotels. You might think of a weekend buried under the luxurious covers on the bed in a 5-star hotel. As comfortable as it sounds, it isn’t really anything new. But you can kick it up a notch by staying at a place with quirky interior design. Of course, you also have to invite the right people to join you.
Here’s a staycation checklist to make planning easier for you.
The Place
The most important factor of a staycation is in the name itself. Where are you staying? Do you plan to stay somewhere that’s just a short drive from your place? Or would you rather have a staycation in a place where nobody can easily get to you? Either way, there are many themed Airbnbs to choose from.
You can enjoy the eerie and mysterious vibe of a Stranger Things theme brought to life with dark lighting and the alphabet wall. You can opt for a lighter ambiance of a Hello Kitty themed place, with delicate furniture and a pink-and-white motif. If decorated well, these places really take you to another reality.
The People
If you know a loved one who would be just as excited as you are about that Star Wars-themed cafe a block away from your chosen location. Or maybe they’re also eager to stay in that place with rooms that are based on the guests’ Hogwarts house. Consider sharing your experience with family or friends.
On the other hand, a staycation can be purely for yourself. If you’ve been cooped up at home for so long with the same people, or if you’re done dealing with your colleagues, it might be time for you to schedule some much-needed me-time. You’ll have more freedom to do what you want, or to not do anything at all.
The Plan
Once you’ve settled who’s going with you, or if you want to go on a staycation alone, you’ve got to figure out how far you want to go and how you’re going to get there. There’s nothing wrong with staying in your room all weekend, watching movies, and letting your body to recharge. But you can do other things, too.
For example, if you’re staying in a city you’ve never been to before, you can research the best restaurants and establishments in that city and give them a try. Or if you have more time to spare, you can make the staycation the end goal of a road trip. Your possible activities are limitless.
The Food
All good plans are sealed with good food. Sure, the ambiance sets the tone for your staycation, and the people you’re with contribute to your overall mood. But food also has an impact on your experience. Be adventurous with the cuisine of the location you’re staying at. Or if you would really rather just stay in the room, don’t deprive yourself of room service and your favorite snacks. You deserve it.
Reality can get way too stressful so take some time off for a staycation. It’s a way for you to recuperate and, maybe, gain a much-needed change in perspective.
