We welcome Evelyn Long, a new guest writer for Slipcovers for Your Walls with her article, Treat Yourself to a Staycation with These 9 Ideas. Be sure to read Evelyn’s bio at the bottom.
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Most people think they must book a hotel or property rental in an exotic locale for a great vacation. In reality, you can take a staycation and set up shop in the comfort of your own home. Anyone can enjoy their freedom and relax with the right layout and activities.
The beauty of a household staycation is you’re in a familiar place and in charge, so anything goes. Let these ideas spark your imagination
1. Create a Spa in Your Bathroom
A spa is one of the most relaxing places you can visit. Emulate the same feeling in your bathroom with these simple tips:
- Get a bathrobe: A fresh towel from the dryer feels wonderful. Now, imagine having that whole feeling around your body with a bathrobe. Aside from the comfortable and soft material, you’ll also look and feel luxurious during your in-house pamper session.
- Have a bubble bath: Bubble baths are usually seen as a childish way to bathe. However, adults know how relaxing it is to have the foam and froth around you. Draw some warm water and get your favorite bath bombs.
- Focus on skin care: Spas often offer skin care while soaking in the tub. Remember to prepare your products. Face masks are usually applied once weekly, so treat yourself by using them during your staycation.
- Light candles: Lighting candles can complete the spa experience. Scented variations can smell exquisite and relaxing. Place a few drops of your favorite essential oils in the bathtub if you want aromatherapy without the flame.
2. Make Your Bedroom Luxurious
Put in extra effort to make your bedroom feel more like a hotel. For instance, you can wash duvet covers for maximum softness and comfort. Change the bedding and pillow covers so they’re brand new and make the bed look inviting for afternoon naps. Lounge here and relax when you need to.
Resource Image: Casart Decor Asia Blossom design
3. Set up an Outdoor Entertainment Space
Being at home doesn’t mean you have to shut yourself indoors. Create an outdoor entertainment space you can enjoy alone and with friends. Here are some ideas:
- Organize a personal pool party: Consider having a pool party on a hot day. You can set up an inflatable pool when needed. Foldable pools offer the same ease without the need to blow it up.
- Create an outdoor bar: Imagine having a wine cellar or countertop in the corner of your backyard and enjoying a beverage at sunset. Open-air cabinets need less maintenance than indoor ones since they’re designed for the great outdoors.
- Get a mini theater going: Have you ever been to a drive-in theater? If you want the same feeling during your household staycation, get an outdoor white screen, projector and speakers. You can easily set up a mini theater and have a cozy movie night.
- Have a star-gazing night: Put down a beach towel and a couple of throw pillows to watch the night sky. Binoculars or telescopes are good if you want a closer look at the stars. You can also use this setup during the day to watch the clouds.
4. Bring Flowers and Plants to the Deck
Reinvigorate your deck with flowers and plants. Pick out your favorite blossoms or herbs. Having a mini garden to tend to can provide a routine to your staycation. Add a couple of chairs so you can sit down and immerse yourself in the greenery. It can even be an aesthetic backdrop for photos.
5. Develop a Secret Reading Nook
Haven’t had time for reading lately? Around 82% of Americans read 10 or fewer books in a year. Break that record by creating a secret reading nook and sneaking in a few pages during your staycation. Place a bean bag in a spare closet or corner and a medium-sized bookshelf if you desire.
6. Orchestrate a Dinner Feast
Most people don’t cook during vacations, opting to dine out instead. Staycations call for takeout and beautiful table decor. Add a table runner and a centerpiece for decorative purposes. Bust out some of your special tableware. You can also add coasters, napkins and candles to elevate the dining experience.
Resource Image: Casart Decor Tabletop Accessories Abstract Panel design
7. Have a Solo Gaming Session
Create the ultimate gaming area in a spare room to unwind in. Add LED lights to keep the space bright and easy on your eyes. Have a large table for consoles and controllers. Invest in a spacious desk and ergonomic chairs if you prefer computer games.
8. Do a Timed Challenge in Your Living Room
Time is of the essence when it comes to enjoying a staycation, especially if you only have a few days off. Consider having a timed challenge in the living room for certain activities. You can use an alarm clock or simply blast your favorite music. Once you reach the last song, you have to have finished the task you set out to do.
Here are some delightful activities to carry out in your household:
- Create a scrapbook display: Print out pictures you’ve always wanted to display but never got around to. Paste them onto scrapbook paper and decorate with stickers and doodles. Once done, hang them on display rods.
- Complete a puzzle: Puzzles make for interesting decor. Most of the thrill comes from putting the image together, and you can proudly display your work in the living room. If you prefer Lego building, pick out a set and assemble it during the staycation instead.
- Transform your space: Do you want to completely change up your living room? Make a timed exercise out of the redecorating process during your day off. You can peel and stick wall murals in a bare space, build furniture to display items, or change your couch’s throw blanket and pillows.
Resource Image: Casart Coverings Japan Mural Design
9. Call a Cleaning Service and Relax
A staycation is all about chilling. While cleaning can aid in destressing, there are days when you don’t want to do it. Enjoy your staycation and call in a cleaning service to eliminate clutter and sanitize your home. That way, you can reserve your energy for more interior design endeavors and relaxation activities.
Have a Wonderful Staycation
Trying these staycation activities can let you recuperate from the regular stresses of life. Above all else, taking time off to relax can help you fall back in love with your home and see it as a haven to escape to.
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Additional posts & resources:
- 10 Home Prep Tips for Your Staycation
- Celebrating Summer with American Style All Year Long
- Don’t Just Wave Summer Goodbye
- How to Find the Interior Design Style that Speaks to You
- How to Mix and Match Colors and Styles in Your Home
Many thanks to Evelyn for her thoughtful article to enhance your staycation this summer.
About the author:
Evelyn Long is an interior design writer passionate about helping homeowners bring life and personality to their spaces.
She is the Editor-in-Chief of Renovated, where she provides interior design tips and guides.
She also contributes to sites like DecorMatters and National Association of Realtors.
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