Traveling and seeing the world tops my list of favorite things to do. However, sometimes the vacation you really want, need or that is just the most available to you is a lot more attainable than the dream exotic getaway. Enter:  The Staycation.

Not every town or city is the best for a stay-cay, so I feel pretty lucky to be a local to one of the most ideal places (in my opinion) – Washington, DC! Today, I’m sharing seven of my top pieces of advice for planning your perfect staycation this summer in the district. Have advice to share yourself? Comment on the post! We’d love to hear from you!

 

 

Clear you calendar

Sometimes, the best plan is to have no plans! One of the greatest challenges of pulling off a staycation is actually doing it. While a trip out of town would have you automatically replying “no” to any and all possibilities for the weekend, a staycation doesn’t provide that natural boundary. So, put it on the calendar and make sure your days are completely clear. Block that time off entirely well in advance so that there is no difficulty in truly detaching and relaxing.

Make sure your home is clean

Cluttered and messy spaces make it difficult to relax. Even if you aren’t a naturally clean or neat person, spending time in an unclean space just isn’t as enjoyable. So, clean your home in advance and make it a priority to start your staycation with a spotless house. It will make your staycation that much more relaxing!

 

Splurge on cozy, fun items

I highly recommend purchasing a few cozy items for your staycation. A cozy blanket, a new candle, or a bougie face mask can make a huge difference in feeling like it’s a regular day vs. a true vacation and luxury. Be sure to save these items until the day begins – don’t open them or enjoy them early! The excitement of a new treat will make it that much more special.

Put the phones away

Be present for as much as you can. A phone is often a constant reminder of stressors in life, and it also distracts from a peaceful, serene mind. It’s always so much easier for me to disconnect and relax when I don’t have my phone near me, and it absolutely helps me feel more rested!

Snack boards

Snack boards are always a favorite of mine for staying in! A charcuterie-style snack board + wine is, in my opinion, the ultimate staycation luxury. Splurge on the good stuff and shop for it a day or two in advance. This is a great “grazing” option for mid-day and can be fun to share with a partner or roommate, too!

Decide on Takeout Vs. Cooking

Sushi or pizza via doordash? Elaborate french recipe that takes 5 hours to make? These are two very different options and they require vastly different amounts of prep! Decide in advance if you’re excited to spend time in the kitchen creating, or if you’d feel more relaxed and enjoy takeout more. And if it’s takeout, make sure to choose delivery!

 

Pick All the Games & Movies

This is one of my favorite ways to relax with my husband! Picking a good movie or playing a game is a great way to relax together in a chill yet interactive way. Ticket to Ride, Codenames, Iota and Start-Up are a few of our favorites. The La Vie En Rose team also loves The { } And cards for starting deep, meaningful conversations with your partner!