Staycations continue to be popular for people across Central Florida and the entire country. An alternative to traditional vacations, here’s where you and your family spend leisure time closer to home. That could mean exploring a local attraction right in your hometown, or taking a day trip to see sights that you just don’t have time for during the busy work and school season.
People like staycations for various reasons. The cost savings are a major perk. Plus, you don’t have to plan, prepare, and pack as much as you would for a longer trip. But did you know about the other big benefits staycations provide? Read on to discover how your best vacation idea this year might just be staying put.
Local Exploration
How many times have you passed that new restaurant or theme park on the way to work and wondered what it’s like? Or maybe you’ve always been interested in a certain activity, but haven’t been able to find the time. With a staycation, you get the fun and excitement of discovering unique and interesting shops, restaurants, and entertainment options right in your current locale.
Contrary to popular belief, staycations don’t require sticking to home base. Instead, you can host the whole family at a nice hotel for the weekend. Enjoy the tourist treatment in your city, and discover why visitors love the Central Florida region so much.
Plus, exploring the region in this way enables you to make helpful recommendations to visiting friends and loved ones. For instance, when you book a relaxing two-hour cruise aboard The Manatee, you’ll see a side of Central Florida you didn’t realize even existed.
Learning Opportunities
You don’t have to be out and about all day to log a memorable staycation. Instead, there are many ways to expand your horizons within minutes from your current location. For example, most colleges and universities offer inexpensive short courses in a variety of concentrations. You could also join a seminar or planned program.
The sky’s the limit when it comes to continuing education prospects. Maybe you’ve always been interested in writing or photography. Perhaps outdoor sports are more your thing. Central Florida is the ideal spot for hiking, water sports (including swimming, kayaking, and fishing), cycling, and much more. Or you could get involved with arts and crafts programs, cooking classes, and similar. Other ideas include patronizing a local museum, taking in a stage play, attending a music festival, and almost anything else your heart desires.
You can even learn about native wildlife and vegetation (and see both up close) on a relaxing water tour aboard The Manatee. A great bonding experience, this also a fine way to learn together with your spouse, children, grandchildren, and everyone special in your life.
Maximum Enjoyment
Traveling can be fun, but it’s often also costly and time-intensive. Whether you drive, fly, take a train, or a combination of transportation options, you always have to factor in travel time. Then there’s the possible recovery period, such as in the case of jet lag, motion sickness, and similar. Before you know it, half your vacation has already been eaten up just getting to your intended spot.
On the other hand, when you choose a local favorite, you get more time to relax, unwind, and enjoy making special memories with friends and family. When you feel like heading home (or have work and school obligations), it’s simple to make the trek back. Plus, because there’s no recuperation time, you won’t get that feeling of needing a vacation after your vacation.
Harmony with Nature
Now that outside temperatures have cooled, many people are choosing to go camping again. Whether you enjoy rustic “roughing it” style camping or appreciate a few basic amenities, options abound in Central Florida. This is also an ideal region to re-connect with nature. Psychologists say doing so is great for mental, emotional, and even physical health.
When you book a two-hour cruise aboard The Manatee, you’ll see some of Mother Nature’s most majestic creations up close and personal. That includes manatees, dolphins, migratory birds, a variety of fish, and more. Snacks and beverages are available on board, as well as clean and spacious restrooms. That means you’ll always have a safe and comfortable experience on board. Plus, tours make a perfect holiday present. Gift certificates are available for our various tours.
Browse our website to learn more about what to expect when you visit. Then, contact us today to include a boat tour as part of your family’s next staycation.