Travelling is heaps of fun, but sometimes, all you want to do is relax at home. Not only are these staycations a great way to recharge, but they're also inexpensive. According to Canadian Living, your average family spends about $2,600 on a week-long trip. Staying in your city reduces this cost drastically, cutting on gas and airfare and avoiding currency exchanges. Plus, it's far easier to relax when you don't have to deal with traffic or lines at the airport. Here are six affordable staycation ideas near you:
Sped a few nights in a boutique hotel
Depending on the accommodations, a few nights at a nice, local hotel costs the same as a round-trip plane ticket. Plus, the meals you get from room service are much better than the ones served to you by airline staff.
Treat yourself to a home spa day
Now's your chance to try all those cute do-it-yourself spa recipes you've seen in magazines or on Pinterest. Try making your own face masks, bath salts, sugar scrubs and hair conditioners. Most of the necessary ingredients can be found at your neighbourhood grocery store. If DIY isn't your thing, head to the nearest upscale beauty store and splurge a little on professional products, or choose a local spa instead.
Treat yourself to a spa day with homemade beauty products.
Head to an indoor water park
If all this arctic wind has you itching for summer, see if there's an indoor water park near you. With temperature-controlled pools and numerous water slides, you'll instantly forget about all the snow outside. Choose a water park with a hotel attached if possible. That way, you don't have to face the cold for even one second.
Go museum hopping
If you live in a major city, there are probably plenty of museums and galleries to visit. A staycation is the perfect time to knock these places off your to-do list. Plus, the money you save on travel means you don't have to feel guilty buying yourself something cool from the gift shop.
Try a new restaurant
Everyone deserves a nice meal once in a while. Check your local newspaper for the latest restaurant recommendations, then make reservations for you and a few friends or family.
Cook something fancy
If you're up for the challenge and have a day to spare, try making a multicourse meal on your own. Choose a recipe that's classic yet upscale - a Julia Child cookbook is a great place to start - then head to a wine and cheese store and ask the staff for pairing recommendations. Invite friends for a dinner party if you wish, or enjoy the fruits of your labor all on your own.