ENJOYING THE STAYCATION

- Bunmi Zalob, Tastybaby Online Networking

Why is this summer different from all others? Two words: gas prices. One positive about the pain at the pump is that Americans are driving less and conserving fuel more. Parents are even finding less expensive ways to making summer vacation memorable for the whole family. The media, who never seems to be in short supply of cute, new buzzwords is calling the trend of rediscovering your hometown in an attempt to cut travel costs the staycation.

Kids aren’t easily fooled. In order to make a staycation look and feel like a good time instead of a budget substitute, take a look at the tips below!

Five Tips for Enjoying a Summer Staycation

5. Put it on the calendar. Like any other vacation, your trip needs a start and end date. Just because it’s a

weekend camping trip doesn’t mean it doesn’t deserve a red circle on the calendar. The anticipation of the upcoming event will make the trip all the sweeter.

4. Take photographs of your barbeque at the park! Having them developed and put in a special photo album will remind everyone that it’s not the amount of cash spent on a vacation that counts, it’s the good times had by everyone involved.

3. Check out your city’s website for undiscovered or ignored gems. Just as there are New Yorkers who have never visited the Empire State Building, there are probably amazing parts of your town that you have yet to unearth. Most likely, there are people who come from all over the country to see something in your city. Find out what they’re coming for and join in…the fanny pack is optional.

2. Enjoy the peace. A laid back vacation can be just as crazy as everyday life sometimes, especially for mom and dad. Running after toddlers at Disney World can feel eerily similar to chasing them in the mall. Part of the benefit of a staycation is being in a familiar, controlled environment. Make sure you have time for peace and quiet, take time to do absolutely nothing. It helps to have doors that lock.

1. Plan a real vacation. As fun as a staycation can be, it will be all the more fun if you know a real getaway is right around the corner. Many newlyweds spend a week at home before going on their exotic honeymoon; those days at home feel special when they’re leading up to something different. You’ve reduced your carbon footprint by staying home a few days, now save up, plan, and go have fun!