'The Great American Staycation'

[August 12, 2009]  ^"The Great American Staycation: How to Make a Vacation at Home Fun for the Whole Family (And Your Wallet!)." Matt Wixon, Adams Media, 2009, 197 pages.

Review by
Richard Sumrall

Everyone would love to take an expensive vacation, perhaps to visit a foreign country or relax in some exotic locale. The reality is that most of us can't afford such a luxury. The economy is in a downturn, gas prices are high, and rising unemployment makes people hesitant to ask for time off from their job. Enter the staycation, or the stay-at-home vacation.

In his new book, "The Great American Staycation," columnist Matt Wixon writes that "a staycation is most successful when you have a positive attitude and willingness to adjust the traditional notion of what a vacation is." In the book's 12 chapters Wixon explains what a staycation is and how it can work for you; the eight basic staycation rules; and some samples planned around theme parks, the great outdoors, education, sports, entertainment, romance and the kids.

What is a staycation?

Wixon defines a staycation as "a vacation in which the vacationer stays at home, or near home, while creating the environment of a traditional vacation." Near home usually refers to destinations or activities within a 100-mile range.

Is the staycation the right vacation for you and your family? If you believe that the best part of a vacation is the quality time you spend with loved ones, the answer is probably yes. On the other hand, if you feel that the best part is to "get away from this godforsaken place," then staycations may not be the right choice.

Staycation rules

To fully appreciate the fun and adventure of a staycation, you should always follow these eight basic rules:

1. A staycation must be treated as a real vacation. You have to unplug -- your phone, your computer, your chores and your job.

2. Plan ahead. According to Wixon, "if you wing it, you're probably going to fly into a wall."

3. Choose a start and end date. Take care of all of the going-away chores of a traditional vacation and, if you're staying at home, consider hiring a maid for the week.

4. Create mental distance. Leave your usual daily routine behind.

5. Treat yourself. Staycations are budget-friendly, but don't be too tight with a dollar. It could cost you in other ways to miss out on some fun.

6. Remember it. Even if you stay home, take plenty of photos and videos. If you visit a locale or attraction, pick up some souvenirs.

7. Maximize your hometown. There are always hidden gems in your community and the neighboring towns.

8. Stay positive. As Wixon points out, "it's not the trip of a lifetime, but it is the opportunity to do something you may not have done before. ... It's about being together as a family or a couple."

Some examples of staycations

The book contains several theme-based chapters that offer numerous examples of staycation ideas. "Outdoor & Adventure" offers several possibilities common to central Illinois. "Rafting Trips, River Floats and Tubing" are perfect family outings because they are inexpensive and less stressful than whitewater rafting. Central Illinois also abounds in "Free Wildlife Viewing Areas." In addition to state and local parks and woodland preserves, the Web site www.wildlifeviewingareas.com lets you search for specific locations or certain animals you're interested in seeing.

With a little imagination, couples can create their own romantic staycation. One choice is "Getting Some Alone Time." If you have friends or relatives you can trust with the kids, this is a great way to visit a new restaurant and sample a cuisine you've never tried. "Train Rides" are a relaxing way to rekindle romantic feelings. Day trips or overnight excursions are often available through special packages (dinner, brunch, etc.). Many central Illinois locales are reachable through Amtrak.

The most fulfilling staycations are the ones designed "Especially for Kids." A great example is "Theme Days." According to Wixon, "young kids love gimmicks." Give each day a special theme and let the kids participate in the planning. A dinosaur theme can include a visit to the museum, outdoor environments, setting up your own dig and buying fossil kits or plastic models at the toy store. Kids can create their own home-style "Family Camp." Let them name the camp, and that will help determine each day's activities. Since your home serves as base camp, you can finish each day with some traditional camping activities -- s'mores, grilling, singalongs and sleeping in the backyard.

"The Great American Staycation" is a wonderfully informative and innovative approach to creating amusement and fun during these difficult economic times. If you take the time to plan a staycation, you can "forget the airport schlep, pricey hotels and hassle that go along with traditional vacations. ... Instead, stay close to home and have a blast!" This book is recommended to anyone looking for budget-minded alternatives to taking a vacation.

[Text from file received from Richard Sumrall, Lincoln Public Library District]