Are you a Couch Potato? Nobody likes to be called names, but in today's economy lack of finances has caused people to become exactly that...a Couch Potato. Folks who would, in a stable economy, take short trips around the country now can't afford even short trips around their own State. That doesn't have to be. You don't have to need thousands or even hundreds of dollars to go to some of the best kept secrets in your own State or even your own county. If you save and plan right the romantic European flights, the Cruise Ships to the Caribbean or the always dreamt of Hawaiian vacation can still be had, when things stabilize. But for the time being you have a wonderful opportunity to go to and see places you completely have overlooked.
Here are some tips for making your local travel memorable:
- Take the bikes, roller blades, or walking shoes. Get out and explore the area. See what your local area has to offer.
- Book a great room. If you aren’t going someplace exotic, you can make the trip feel more exciting than staying home by booking a great room. A suite, penthouse, or something plush. Let the kids order room service and wear the robes. It might cost a bit more, but it can make it feel far more special.
- Spend time as a family. The idea behind a family vacation is to spend time as a family. No matter how close or far away from home you go, the best thing you can do to make a vacation memorable is to spend the time together. Sure, relaxing is important, but it is equally important to engage your children, and create memories together. Make it about them. Let them choose the activities, and don’t hole up in your room, instead go to the pool, build the sandcastle, visit the gift shop, or whatever else your kids want to do.
- Go to the local attractions. Whether it is the world’s largest thermometer, a local favorite food dish, or a cultural museum exhibiting the history of the area, immerse yourself in whatever the local area has to offer. Get to know the place you are visiting–the history, the culture, the flavor.
Is money and time an issue for you? Don’t underestimate the benefits of staying local and exploring your own backyard. This strategy is one of the most overlooked and cheapest ways of having more travel in your life. It might surprise you what gems you can find within a few hours of home.