No Vacation In Sight?

Summer is in full swing, and many of us have exciting vacations planned.  But what if you don’t?  Or you just got back from your vacation and don’t have another one in the works?   What to do when you need that “I’m on vacation” feeling?

I say fake it.

Nope, you probably can’t just take off and go somewhere (if you can, I’m envious!), but you CAN change your mindset – at least for a few hours.

Take a look around town (or Yelp) for a fun, local restaurant that has outdoor seating.  A water view is ideal, but at least find something with good people watching.  If you are lucky enough to score someplace with live music that’s a real bonus.  Another fun option would be a local winery or brewery that offers appetizers or charcuterie.

Order yourself a fancy cocktail or glass of wine and a few appetizers – preferably something fancy.  Now, pretend you are off on an amazing vacation.  Don’t think about what you “should” be doing the rest of the night – tonight is all about vacation time and vacations don’t have to-do lists.  After dinner, stroll leisurely through a nearby town or neighborhood.  Have fun conversations about where you’d like to go, what you’d like to see in the next year.

Is it a real vacation?  Not even close, but it’s amazing how a little break in the ordinary and experiencing the types of things you’d do on a vacation can help you feel a little more carefree and relaxed.   Just like a good vacation.

What do you do when you don’t have a trip planned but feel the need to get away from “real-life?”