Staycation – The Cheapest Vacation of All
August 25, 2008 Home Living, The Latest Trends, Weekenders
What is a Staycation?
Among the many things Canada has introduced to America (or been responsible for, depending on your tastes) are an appreciation for hockey, maple syrup, Bryan Adams and Celine Dion. A recent integration of Canadian culture has been the clever portmanteau, “staycation.”
The term was coined by Canadian comedian Brent Butt, and refers to the act of, basically, vacationing in your own backyard. The act has been widely popular due to the current difficult economic times. Unemployment levels are rising along with gas prices, giving rise to the high popularity of backyard pools, and local parks/festivals.
Costs and Benefits of the Staycation
The benefits of a staycation are clear. There are no travel/lodging expenses. The added stress of packing, waiting in lines at the airport, and uncomfortable travel arrangements disappear.
The costs are that you are still at home and able to access your email/phone/snail-mail. Paying bills and returning emails are not activities that belong on a vacation. If you’re a workaholic, then being in reach of your work life may not be for you. You may need to forgo the staycation and book that cruise to the Caribbean and toss your cell phone overboard.
For the typical worker looking for a short break from it all, a staycation may be just what the doctor ordered. Take a few days off work and enjoy a local festival or any other local event. Save some money and get some of that truly deserved R&R.
