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Stay-cations

How to be a tourist in your home town

When taking a trip out-of-town is out of the question, consider taking a stay-cation! Stay-cations are just like vacations, but they let you stay close to home. Not only is a stay-cation a great way to enjoy the fun things to do in your own neighborhood, it’s also a great way to save money, too.

Before you start your stay-cation, though, make sure you plan to treat it like a real vacation. Set specific days aside just as you would for a vacation away from home. Resist calling your office, checking e-mail or listening to voicemail messages. Get as many household chores done before your stay-cation, too. Your stay-cation should be all about relaxing and enjoying your time away from your normal schedule.

Got some ideas for fun things to do? Great! For other ideas, try one of these:

• Visit local farmers markets or orchards. Take advantage of the fresh seasonal produce they have to offer.
  
• Check out your local library. Catch up on some reading or see what programs the library has to offer.
  
• Take a tour of a museum, zoo, amusement park, or historic site.
  
• Go to a local sporting event, or plan a day of games at the park and bring a picnic lunch.
  
• Relax by a pool – yours, a neighbor’s, or a community pool. Don’t let storms get in the way of swimming - visit an indoor water park! 
  
• Plan a block party, cocktail party or BBQ with your neighbors.
  
• Rent movies or see a matinee – every day!
  
• Try a meal at a new restaurant. Make sure you order an appetizer and a dessert, too!
  
• Hire a maid to clean your house while you lounge.
  
• Plan a mini trip. Stay at a hotel overnight and take advantage of room service.

Whatever you decide to do, make sure you enjoy it to the fullest.  It’s a vacation!  What are some stay-cation ideas you have?