Live Small: PT 3 The Titanic. Homework. Staycations.

According to me and the newspaper there are at least four reasons why the idea of staycation gives off a negative vibe.

Staycation is linked to the following;

higher gas prices

the recent recession

financial difficulties, e.g., losing a job

and mom and dad zipping up their old tent in your back yard.

However, as I said earlier, in spite of these things, there are some positive things to be said about the staycation. (I'm sure of it).

For example, those that think long-term will appreciate the value of conserving finite resources, such as fuel, for the future and limiting their carbon footprint to those actions that are 100% necessary today.

Long-term thinkers may be in the minority in 2011 but their numbers will grow in line with rising fuel prices.

Just not this year. According to a recent news report, “Americans will cut other expenses rather than forsake holidays this Memorial day weekend... the latest indication that near-record $4-a-gallon gasoline is having limited impact on demand.” (Travel group AAA forecast, May 20, London Free Press)

Admittedly, holidays are important, but some look forward to staying off busy roads and sleeping (perhaps dreaming) in their backyard.


["I dream about sleeping in The Annex": photo GH]

Jan Hunter, The Stay-Cationist, envisions “gazing at beautiful displays of colour (i.e., in her garden), and leisurely relaxing with whatever summer refreshment I chose to grasp firmly in my hand.” (May 19, The Londoner)

Though her intent may not be to save money (she may also dream about her next back yard project), she wants - at the very least - to enjoy the fruits of her own labour.

Staycation can also mean the following to some:

save money (See! A positive side for me!)

one week at a cottage rental, instead of two

visit with neighbours in the ‘hood

pay down debt

explore immediate surroundings more fully

camp within a one-day bike ride of home

get some practice “doing without, cutting back” before the tough times ahead

hike to a local campground

or, trade houses with a friend.

The possibilities are more numerous, I bet. Why, putting a positive spin on staycation is probably right up your alley.

Let me know about the positive side of your last staycation, or next one.

I’m home right now (just steps from my own comfortable back deck). And I’m listening.

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Please click here to read Pt 2 The Titanic. Homework. Staycations.

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