As summer rolled around, my daughter came home from school, lamenting that we were the only ones not venturing off on grand adventures during break. It seemed like everyone else was jet-setting to exciting destinations or embarking on epic road trips.
When I reminded her about our weekend getaway at a local hotel with a pool, she dismissed it as not being a “real” vacation. Perhaps she has a point; a short trip may not compare to a two-week European holiday or a cross-country drive. But honestly? I couldn’t care less. I’ve always cherished the idea of staycations, and there’s nothing I enjoy more than rediscovering our home state and indulging in the simple pleasure of doing nothing.
When we travel, which we do despite what my kids might believe, I often feel a weight of responsibility to ensure everyone’s happiness. The pressure to see and do everything in a new location can be overwhelming, leaving me drained and yearning for the comfort of my own bed—my well-loved mattress in a familiar room.
In reality, vacations often make me long for home, and I find myself wishing for a vacation from my vacation—something that’s simply not feasible in everyday life. There’s a treasure trove of sights to explore within a short drive from home, yet many of us rarely take the time to enjoy them. We’re too caught up in our busy lives, working hard, and planning trips to far-off places.
Time off flies by, and I relish having a reason to stay put, waking up without a packed schedule and allowing the day to unfold organically, free of school or work obligations. While many families are busy packing their bags and heading to airports, my family enjoys the comforts of home. We sleep better here, we eat better, and my kids behave far more kindly in our own space.
Staying home means I don’t have to deal with the chaos of public restrooms or the stress of keeping everyone organized while out and about. I’m truly a homebody at heart, and becoming a parent has only deepened my appreciation for staycations. Sure, exploring new places as a family has its perks, but so does slowing down, disconnecting, and camping out in the backyard.
How many times have you thought, “We should really try that” or “We ought to host a dinner party with sliders and tiny hot dogs”? I bet it’s more often than you can count. The perfect time to tackle those ideas? During a staycation, of course. My children might complain that we don’t travel enough, but they genuinely love our staycation adventures.
How do I know? Because when I pause during dinner or while we’re watching TV and ask them about their favorite memories, they almost always recall moments from our staycations.
So, if you’re contemplating a getaway, consider the joys of staying home. You might discover that the best memories don’t require a plane ticket or a long drive—just a willingness to embrace the world around you.
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Summary
Staycations provide a unique opportunity to relax and enjoy quality family time without the stress of travel. They allow families to explore local attractions, unwind in familiar surroundings, and create cherished memories without the chaos often associated with traditional vacations. By embracing the comforts of home, families can discover the joy of simply being together.