Economic conditions being what they are, many people are finding themselves with less disposable income for non-essentials, such as big-ticket vacations. In addition, those with a chronic illness may find that travel to faraway locations is incompatible with their limited energy. So, how do you indulge in a getaway without actually going away? The answer is the “stay-cation”.

A “stay-cation”, simply put, is a vacation in one’s own hometown or one close by. While that may not initially seem as exciting as a lush resort, with some creativity, one can still recharge one’s batteries and have some fun. What follows are suggestions for activities that won’t break the bank or deplete you of all your spoons:
1. Go on safari – with a camera. A trip to the zoo can be fun for the whole family, and who doesn’t like critters? Bring your camera and see if you can get some candid shots of your favorite animals. Aquariums are a chance to see exotic ocean life close up even if you are nowhere near a beach. Some cities even have unusual attractions like butterfly houses, where you can walk through an atrium with them fluttering all around you.
2. Stop and smell the roses. Botanic gardens are a beautiful way to spend some quiet time. Some of the larger ones are divided into zones representing various ecosystems or differing parts of the world. If your area doesn’t have something like this, see if there are local parks you can visit that have a lot of flowers or some other scenic appeal.
3. Enjoy foreign cuisine. When not in Rome, eat as the Romans do – or substitute region of your choice. Maybe try an Indian restaurant, or Thai, or Japanese? Alternatively, if you have the energy, you can try making a meal at home using recipes from the internet or the newspaper – for example, a dinner of grilled chicken with Moroccan-style seasoning, Greek salad, and Italian arborio rice.
4. See the world via DVD. There are many excellent foreign films just waiting to be discovered by Americans. You could rent multiple films from a single nation, or mix and match – example: “Monsoon Wedding” from India, “Eat Drink Man Woman” from Taiwan, “Il Postino (The Postman)” from Italy. Or if subtitles aren’t your style, go with something in English that is set elsewhere, like “Under the Tuscan Sun”, or pick something filmed in a beautiful locale, like the “Lord of the Rings” movies that were shot in New Zealand.
5. Be a tourist in your own hometown. Pretend that you are visiting your own area from elsewhere for the first time and do whatever the tourists do. Are there any unique museums, galleries featuring local art, festivals or fairs you have not attended? Maybe check out a local sporting event, play or other performance that is new to you.
Some places like zoos and museums might let you rent a wheelchair if you need one, so you don’t have to bring your own. If you will be outdoors, remember the mosquito repellent, sunscreen, perhaps an umbrella to protect you if you are particularly photosensitive. And don’t forget to stay hydrated.
Whatever you choose to do, think of it as an adventure, rather than being a prisoner in your own community. Even if you can’t leave the house, maybe open the blinds on a clear evening and gaze at the stars (and/or fireflies if there are any). And when your adventure is accomplished, you can return to your daily routine with a clearer head and some memories to share.
Submitted by: Karen Brauer, Butyoudontlooksick.com, © 2008