Released March 24, 2009
AUBURN UNIVERSITY, Ala. --Don't cancel those plans for the family vacation just yet! Or, maybe you should explore another option that will put less miles on the car and more money in your pocket. Staycations are popular alternatives to vacations that are spent around or close to home, yet offer many of the same elements of its pricier counterparts.
Staycations can be designed to fit most any budget. A few easy calculations quickly reveal how planning this period to relax, bond, enjoy and possibly rebuild a budget is time worth spending!
Adding in quality time together is a universal trait of strong families. Simple, yet equally challenging, it easily can become a dwindling occurrence in any household without purposeful plans in place. Reductions in such family staples as family dinners, vacations and reunions, over time can rob families of the fibers that unite them. Making this time a priority throughout the year statistically results in stronger, more in-tuned households, which generally equals healthier and happier families. Although obstacles exist, options such as staycations offer alternate routes to family bonding.
Consider the following as you begin charting your course to the staycation that best fits your family:
Are We There Yet?
A feature of staycations is that the route to family fun can be a short one. Whether it is a weekend, week or other time period, determine the best length for your family. To jump-start the planning process, consider a few probable dates and pencil them in on the calendar.
Take a Right at Home, Hang a Left Around the Corner…
Reflecting on your budget and desires, establish whether you will plan your staycation around the home or extend it to city or state perimeters. Many opt to do a mixture of these. Jotting down some possible in-house activities and outings will help determine your approach. Many gem locations are often found right under your nose! There may be local sites that your family has never or rarely visited together. Also, there are old favorites that you enjoy over and over. Possible outing venues include local museums, amusement parks, sporting games, zoos, traditional parks and similar natural attractions. In-house activities include cookouts, game nights, competitions and movie nights. When personalizing this family time, be creative and think outside the box!
All for One, One for All!
As you brainstorm ideas for activities on your staycation, keep the end objective in mind. What is it that you hope to accomplish? For most, a staycation allots adequate time for unwinding and rest. It incorporates elements that foster family sharing, enlightenment and connecting. Lastly, make it fun for all family members.
Look at and present the family staycation to your family members as a great and important time to strengthen and enjoy the family. Staycations and vacations alike offer critical elements to families and, inevitably, the community in which the families reside.
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Contact: Synithia Williams, willisl@aces.edu, (205) 329-1148
