The Staycation We Never Expected

The pandemic has changed the way we see the world and how we can see more of it. With the limits of physical distancing and regulation to stay at home as much as possible, luxuries such as traveling and taking vacations abroad seem like a far-off dream or fantasy. But as they say, “If there’s a will, there’s a way.” (And no, please do not think of recklessly breaking the strict safety guidelines for COVID-19.)

Staycations have been maintaining its popularity since the early 2010s. The concept of a vacation that involved lazing around indoors versus being consistently on the move outdoors appealed to many millennials and young adults. And it still does.

The best part about staycations is that you don’t necessarily have to do it the conventional way: either booking a fancy hotel room or a cozy bed and breakfast. For it is a getaway you can pull off at none other than the comforts and safety of your own home.

So, how do we go about planning and executing our own staycation without much fuss? What hacks are there to make the process just as enjoyable as the experience itself? Here are a few ways to make the most of the staycation we never expected.

Do Not Disturb

If you live alone, it won’t be a problem to start setting up. On the contrary, if you live with your family or roommates, you will need to ask them for time alone. Inform them and be transparent about the staycation you want to make for yourself. Even if it’s just for a few days, it would be best for them to not disturb you. 

Bedroom turned hotel room

No matter how small or big your bedroom is, there is a way to transform it into the suite or accommodation you desire. Try lighting some candles or using fairy lights if you already have them at home. Fill a small bowl with your favorite snacks, whether sweet salty, and place it on your bedside table. To top it off, get your best sheets out and use them all fresh and clean.

For the Titas of Manila out there, aromatherapy is your best friend. You can use a diffuser or aromatic spritzer to achieve a spa-like feel in your room. If you want to go the extra mile, go wild with your bath salts, body lotions, oils, and creams, plus clay masks.

Once you’re ready and satisfied with your room, take the me-time you deserve. Because that is what a staycation is all about. Whether you feel like immersing yourself in a good book or binge watching your favorite TV show. You can sleep for a whole day if you want to as well. The sky is your limit! 

Do whatever feels right for you at the moment. Your mental health is important especially during such a challenging time.

Selection of hobbies

Balance your inactivity with activities! You don’t have to do as many activities as you can (this isn’t a contest), but trying out a new hobby is said to be one of the best ways to de-stress. At the same time, you get the opportunity to learn and thrive in a new craft.

Activities that you can easily do include cooking, baking, yoga, meditation, and working out, among many others. There are many free virtual cooking and baking classes available since businesses are transitioning online. If you’re not comfortable with that or think your internet connection is too slow to handle a class, Google a recipe you want to try or watch a video tutorial and follow along. The same goes for yoga or meditation sessions as well as working out. You will find various videos of these on Youtube and apps you can download on your phone.

If you prefer a hobby that allows you to unleash your creativity, opt for journaling, painting, or sketching. All you will need are a notebook or sketchbook, a blank canvas, pencils or pens, and art supplies. 

Food deliveries for the win

One can never have too much take-out, especially if you’re on a staycation in your own home. Not only will you be satisfying your cravings, you will also have the chance to help out small businesses. There are many people online selling baked goods, artisanal coffee or tea, and diet restricted meals (allergen free, gluten free, etc.). Let’s not forget about our favorite local restaurants! You are more than welcome to place your order online or via phone for the restaurant of your choice.

Planning for the future

Take the time to reflect during your staycation as well. Every now and then, it’s good for our minds to count the blessings that we have and offer gratitude to the important people around us. It doesn’t, by all means, have to be the deepest spiritual experience. 

In fact, you can also use the time to think about and lay out what you want to do in the future. When all of this is over. This is when journaling comes in handy. Ask yourself: What destinations have you been aching to travel to? What items are waiting to be ticked on your bucket list? What experiences are you urging to try when the world has finally recovered? Then, write them down for future reference. 

There’s nothing wrong with looking forward to the future. It serves as an escape from the current reality, even for just a while, and gives hope for what is to come. As Thomas Fuller once said, “The darkest hour is just before dawn.” Proving that a sliver of optimism or aspiration to simply keep going in difficult times is something worth fighting for.