Every now and then we all need a break from our regular routine and everyday life. I can’t be the only one lol. I live in West Hollywood, CA (literally the best neighborhood) and absolutely love it. I am grateful to be in an area with so much to see and do, but there are days where I find myself bored, restless and flatlined. When I start to feel that way, I know it’s time for a staycation. I be READY to pack a bag. We truly get the best of both worlds – the mountains and the water – so there’s always something to adventure to. I’m going to share with you some helpful tips if you are traveling within California so you can get the most our of your staycation. Let’s get right into it.
Tip 1: Prepare your home/apartment – Before you venture out like the little travel bug that you are, put a few things in place before you leave. I like to make sure my apartment is clean so that I don’t have to come back to a mess. Nobody wants to come home to a messy room. Also, set any away messages in your work e-mail so that your clients/co-workers aren’t surprised when you’re not available. Even if you are working while away (which hopefully you aren’t!), keep the work do a bare minimum. If you have pets that you’re leaving at home, be sure their caretaker is prepared with everything they need, and that you provide any important notes that might be helpful for your little furbaby. I personally get anxiety if I leave home and don’t feel prepared, so take care of the small things before you head out!
Tip 2: Get in the vacation mindset – Even though you aren’t leaving town, act as if you were! Treat this like you are going to another country or island. You want to feel good about taking a break, so never think that the hotel that’s ten minutes away isn’t a real vacation. It is! Let go & fall off the radar. Your mindset controls everything, so tell yourself that this is a time for some much needed love and self-care.
Tip 3: What to wear? Plan accordingly – Oh henny….this is the most important. The fashion! When it comes to the clothing that you pack, make sure you know what the weather is like where you’re headed. Not all weather throughout California is the same! Generally, the temps are a little cooler in Northern Cal depending on how close you are from the coast. It does get cold up there – especially at night! I recently went to Carmel-by-the-sea and had to pack my faux fur jacket! It was definitely needed. I’d suggest you pack a sweatshirt or long-sleeved jacket, and a pair of jeans. Trust me, you’ll thank me later ; )
Tip 4: Be a tourist without being a tourist – I can truly say that I discover new places around my own neighborhood all the time. You know that hole in the wall that few people know about? Sometimes those are my favorite places. Make plans to visit a few landmarks, eat at a local restaurant, and take a walk around the city. Get to know your surroundings. Don’t be afraid to walk around and get “lost.” Not everything has to go according to plan, but at least have a general idea of what you want to do and where you want to go.
Tip 5: Pamper yourself – Girl, go to that spa. Get that pedicure. Take yourself out on a date and enjoy a glass of white wine. Enjoy the small things, because this is what it’s truly about. Make sure you do one thing that is just for you – because you deserve it. Sleep in, and give yourself a slow morning. Try to not cram everything in. Relax, take a breath, and do one special thing for yourself. It’s so important that we take time, to make time. Enjoy it!
All pics shown are from my recent staycation to Carmel-by-the-sea, CA. If you are looking for a beautiful beach town with friendly people and AMAZING seafood – visit Carmel. I LOVE it there and literally didn’t want to leave. The vibe was so peaceful, and the hotel I stayed in was the absolute best. I met some new people and created some beautiful memories.
I hope these tips were helpful bebb. You can also watch my YouTube video of my staycation at Carmel, and subscribe to my channel. (video is also below 😉
Thanks so much for reading and stopping by. I appreciate you SO much xx
Priceless information. Thanks.