In the dating world we are used to seeing ads like this one, “Attractive guy seeking quiet walks on a sandy beach.” With summer rapidly approaching, and the need for a break becoming a necessity, it can be tricky to plan your perfect summer vacation when your budget is already tight. So my ad would read, “Single seeking an affordable summer vacation”.
I am convinced that being on a strict budget won’t keep me from enjoying the hot, lay days of summer, I am ready to let the fun begin and you can too!
There’s no Place like Home
One of the least expensive things you can do is leave the car in the driveway and think of some fun activities to do at home. Most of us lead such busy lives these days that a week at home, with some low-key activities, may be just the ticket to recharge our batteries. Here are a few things you can do in your own backyard.
- Set up a lounge chair under a shady tree with a tropical drink and a good book. This is my personal favorite. I love to read but can never seem to find enough hours in the day to make it a reality. I have a stack of books with my name on them for this year’s summer vacation.
- Rent some movies, or check them out of the library and have a film festival. With my busy schedule, and my son’s constant need for entertainment I rarely have time to watch the movies I have been dying to see. On my vacation this year I plan to set aside time to have my own personal movie marathon.
- Pack a picnic and some sporting equipment. I love the outdoors and enjoy spending time enjoying nature and some friendly competition. (This would actually be the makings of a perfect date for me.)
- Plan a cookout. Nothing says summer like a good old fashioned cookout. Invite some friends and neighbors and have everyone bring something to keep costs down. This is also a great way to meet other singles in a setting less stressful than a blind date.
- Take a nap in the afternoon. My son would disagree, but a nap is a great way to recharge those batteries. Enjoy a late afternoon nap on at least one day of your summer vacation.
If you make a list of all the fun or relaxing things you’d like to do “if you only had the time,” you’ll probably find that the week at home will be up, before you cross everything off your list.
Local Treasures
If staying at home sounds boring, look for events and activities happening in your own community that won’t require a lot of driving to attend. Just because you’re not a tourist, doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your local attractions! Many of these make great first dates or can bring a budding relationship into perspective.
- Museums and art galleries. Many of these will have free or affordable admission. Visiting a museum or art gallery gives you the ability to appreciate things you may overlook in your usually busy day.
- Historical Sites. You can type in “Historical Sites”+”Your City and State” into a search engine like Google and you’ll probably find a number of local sites that would be interesting to visit and learn more about. Not a history buff myself, I have found these types of activities give me a new appreciation for things.
- State Parks. As I mentioned I love the outdoors! Where I live I have a number of state parks to choose from all within 50 miles of my home. Each has its own unique set of activities and admission to most is either free or low cost.
Between the stress of paying bills, relationships, and life in general you probably could use a vacation this year more than ever. Unfortunately, the cause of all that stress is probably the main thing standing in the way of that much needed vacation.
Try doing things a little differently this year, and plan a summer getaway without leaving town. With a little research and organization, you’ll find there are many options for singles, to plan a relaxing getaway without getting away at all!
What is your favorite way to spend a summer vacation on a budget?
