Employers are touting the benefits of workers that take their allotted vacation time, instead of choosing to work or cash in those hours. But not every vacation has to cost a bundle, and not every vacation has to entail traveling. Staycations are a great way to use vacation days (or even a long holiday weekend) and at the same time become acquainted with parks, museums, theaters, waterways, and entertainment venues that are right within the Pacific Northwest.

A staycation is when you take a vacation but you stay near or at your own home. Staycations generally include a string of fun day trips to places in your state — places you've always wanted to explore, but haven't been able to because the everyday hustle and bustle of life always seems to interfere. Some of the most common staycation activities include:

• Going on an all-day hike
• Walking tours of notable neighborhoods
• A cultural weekend of museums and theater
• Attending a weekend-long concert series
• Restaurant-hopping at culinary establishments
• Enjoying water parks and amusement parks in the state

Getting The Most From A Staycation

Even though you may not be traveling far from home, you should still treat your staycation like a real vacation — that means creating an itinerary and pre-purchasing event tickets or making reservations. Circle the dates in red on your calendar and feel the same energizing excitement that vacations normally bring about.

The real fun in a staycation is staying local but going completely off the grid. No phone calls for work or checking on emails are allowed. You may only be 45 minutes from home, but you should still tell your friends, neighbors, and family that you are on vacation.

Staying local for your vacation means saving money on hotels and travel. But, to increase the feeling of taking the time to enjoy life, treat your home as if it is a hotel. Have all your housework, shopping, and errands completed before your staycation date. If you're off work for a number of days, why not use the money you saved to have a day maid tidy up for you? Now that's a real staycation!

If you're searching for your next apartment home in Mountlake Terrace, WA, visit us at Taluswood Apartments to unwind and escape as you plan your next staycation. Our apartments feature your choice of modern, traditional, or classic finish package options, so you can enjoy decor that suits your lifestyle.