Summer is upon us, a time when many like to get away and enjoy a vacation away from home. As appealing as leaving your busy life behind and sipping fruity drinks with your feet in the sand may sound, it isn’t always the most realistic option. For a family, organizing a summer vacation may be a challenge because of conflicting schedules, not to mention the price of airfare and lodging. Young adults and professionals may feel uncomfortable being completely disconnected from their lives, leaving them stressed when they should be relaxing. For whatever reason, it may be hard to get away; however, a staycation could be the perfect answer.
A staycation involves creating a vacation without leaving town. Staycations include several of the same benefits that come with a standard vacation, such as relaxation, fun and discovery. Another plus: staycations lack the typical drawbacks like high costs, crowded airports, inhibited communication and worry. Planning a staycation is simple! Here are some tips to plan a great staycation:
Unplug
One of the easiest ways to turn your home into a staycation paradise is to unplug. Designate a night to get rid of electronics. Turn off the phones and the news, and leave email alone. Instead, prepare a special meal or order take-out from your favorite restaurant, or perhaps splurge on something fancier than usual. If it’s a staycation for one, enjoy the peace and quiet with a book that never gets old. If it’s a family night, prepare some favorite board games or other fun activities and have a family tournament. Unplugging for a night is an easy way to let the mind rest and enjoy the company.
Enjoy the Outdoors
A staycation is the perfect time to experience what the great outdoors has to offer. Consider visiting a nearby body of water, be it a beach or lake, and trying something new like paddleboarding or sailing. Try hiking in local mountains or simply stroll through the park, stopping for a picnic along the way. For those who like to get out on the golf course or tennis court, there’s no better time than a staycation.
Visit Local Attractions
Every city or town has its fair share of great local attractions, the kind that often go unexperienced by the busy local residents. Chances are, some quick research into local attractions will reveal some interesting and fun options. For example, many towns have a community theater where residents can enjoy local productions. If theatre is of no interest, consider kicking back with a cold drink at a college of professional sports game. Try visiting the downtown or historic district and exploring a museum. For the kids, a local zoo will provide a day of fun.
Treat Yourself
Enjoy the same perks of staying at a beautiful resort by scheduling a relaxing day at a local Massage Envy. Massage therapy works wonders for the mind and body, relaxing the muscles and relieving stress – the perfect combination to make your staycation truly special. Massage Envy offers a wide range of options for a custom experience, from Swedish, deep tissue or sports massage to facial treatments and couple’s sessions. A massage treatment should be a highlight in any great staycation plan, because nothing says staycation like treating yourself to a top relaxing experience – a few blocks from home. QCBN
By Mark Love
For additional information or to schedule an appointment with a massage therapist or esthetician, visit massageenvy.com, call 928-526-ENVY (3689), or visit one of Arizona’s 39 Massage Envy locations. The Prescott location is at 120 E. Sheldon St in the Depot Marketplace Complex.
Mark Love is co-owner of Massage Envy Arizona. For more information on the benefits of massage, visit MassageEnvy.com.
