Taking a vacation can be a beautiful thing, but sometimes vacations should come with a warning label. ["Warning: vacation may cause jet lag, digestive problems, the common cold and as much stress as intended to melt away."] We travel to faraway lands because the appeal to escaping the everyday drudge can be overwhelming, despite our own brush with stories reminiscent of a Griswold family getaway. So this winter, why not give yourself the sabbatical you deserve without all of the stressors that can arise from traveling abroad? We've shared some of the reasons why you should vacation at a home not-so-far away from home this winter.
Minimize your Travels. Are we there yet? Travel delays, traffic, lost luggage, broken down vehicles, OH MY. Travel mishaps can amplify stress on a vacation; and doesn't that defeat the purpose? Plus, traveling costs can add up quickly and easily surpass your original estimates. Not to mention, any time that you could be using to relax can quickly equate into lost time put aside for packing and re-packing, driving and flying, or waiting on traffic and delays. The bottom line? Travel time can cut into the beginning, middle and end of your trip and could be the source of vacation woes. Cut the travel time and instantly lengthen your relaxing vacation.
Stay at a local Bed and Breakfast. Most people stay at a bed and breakfast when visiting a town for a wedding or special occasion, but why not treat yourself to a cozy weekend stay close to your home town? Take advantage of the mountainous ranges, snowy weather and breathtaking scenery during this time of year, even if only for a weekend. Having someone take care of the arrangements for your stay (fireplace included) while staying in a relaxed atmosphere is just what the doctor ordered. Plus, the breakfast spread that these places put together is no ordinary meal (believe me, I've seen them with my own eyes!). Breakfast + warm atmosphere + relaxing stay + amazing views = good idea.
Recharge. Ever go on a vacation and find that you come back sicker than a dog, or worse, catch something that kicks in during your getaway? Distant lands, foreign germs and recent strangers could be the culprit for your new and exciting strain of illness. Enjoying a vacation at a home away from home gives you the time to watch that show you've been interested in, or read that book you've been curious about, or just cuddle in bed and get cozy. Taking the time you need to catch up, unwind and focus on yourself according to your schedule gives you that little boost that you'll need to make it through this winter. And scheduling a stay-cation with the family can be just as rewarding. Find an excuse to get active and go hiking, or visit that art gallery or local museum you've been meaning to visit. We think you'll be pleasantly surprised with what the Hudson Valley has to offer.
Become a tourist of Your Neck of the Woods. Our lives are busy and balancing a work, home and social life can feel like a balancing act. How many times do you pass by a place and add it to your list of 'things to do' in the area for when you have the time? A stay-cation allows you to take out that list and explore the very neighborhood you pass by every day. It's amazing just how different our surroundings appear when we look at them from the eyes of an outsider. Get to learn the history of the area you call home. Eat at that restaurant you've been meaning to try or that brewery you've heard about. Stop in and read a magazine at the local library or watch the snow fall at the bed and breakfast you're staying in. Whatever you do, make a promise to yourself to enjoy your much-needed vacation at your home away from home, to the fullest.
To learn more about places to stay in the area, click here.
Pictures and Article by:
Lucia Civile
LACE Photo Media