COVID-19 doesn’t seem to be going anywhere anytime soon, which means that most of your warm-weather plans are probably on hold for now. Just because you won’t be hopping a plane or heading to the club doesn’t mean you can’t relax and enjoy some summer fun without leaving your neighborhood. Whether it’s finding creative ways to use your home and backyard, making some upgrades around the house, or learning something new, there’s no reason not to find ways to enjoy the season. If you’re looking for a staycation for a socially-distanced summer, read on for five great ideas.
1. Consider taking a “trip” at home.
It may not be the real thing, but you can transform your home inexpensively so it feels like a whole new world. If you have a family, talk to them and get an idea of where they may want to “visit.” It doesn’t even have to be a real place; you can create a fantasy world from a favorite movie or a warm beach with some sand in the backyard. Learn a new cultural dish and give it a try for dinner. The key to a great staycation is to make your familiar space feel different, even if it’s just for a day or two.
2. Pamper yourself and create a home spa.
Going to get a massage might be off the table (literally), but you can create a mini-spa right in your own home. Face masks, electronic massagers, foot spas, and more are all available for purchase without breaking the bank. There’s no reason not to treat yourself.
Just because you aren’t jet-setting doesn’t mean you can’t treat yourself to some new travel clothing for when you’re ready to hit the road again. Not only that, but dressing up for your staycation makes it feel less like every other day at home. It can be tempting to live in your pajamas in a situation like this, but looking good often correlates to feeling good, and feeling good is what a staycation is all about.
3. Upgrade your backyard and camp out.
Now is the perfect time to ask yourself whether or not you’re getting the most out of your outdoor space. While camping in the wilderness can be expensive, uncomfortable, and not a very socially-distanced idea in a public area, pitching a tent in your backyard is a simple way to have fun by yourself or with your family. You can roast marshmallows over a fire (safely), play some outdoor games, and get cozy in your sleeping bag under the stars.
If you live somewhere where the temperatures climb in the summer months, consider that it might be time to invest in a pool for the yard. If you’re in the area, check out Olympus Pool Builders Tampa FL. Not only can you install a pool, but you can also add other upgrades like waterfalls, a fire pit, or an outdoor kitchen. Since your backyard is likely your best option for outdoor entertainment, for the time being, turning it into a place you can enjoy yourself is more important than ever.
4. Start a new project.
It can be big or small, but some time off during a staycation is a great opportunity to get started on a new project. For families with kids, building a treehouse, learning how to make a model rocket, and other arts & crafts might be worthwhile. For adults, why not try making a small garden, picking up a new skill like knitting or sewing, or even learning a new language? You might surprise yourself and find something new that you love to do.
5. Explore the outdoors in your area.
Going hiking, visiting the park, or hitting up the beach might still be options where you live, and taking advantage of those spaces is a great idea if you’re able to. Outdoor activities allow more of an opportunity to socially-distance and can keep you from going completely stir crazy. No matter what you’re doing, make sure you wear your mask, keep a safe distance from others, and follow any other local guidelines and rules related to being outdoors.
No matter who you are or where you live, there’s no doubt that the ongoing global pandemic has altered your summer plans. Still, that doesn’t mean you have to completely abandon the idea that you can have fun and enjoy the season, even if you find that you’re mostly stuck at home. If you’ve got time off and need a break, consider one of these socially-distanced staycation ideas to get that relaxing summer feeling, even in the time of COVID-19.
