Preparing for Summer Vacations

When I was young and growing up in New Jersey our family often took the ferry to Brooklyn to visit our grandparents and other family and friends but we never stopped at the Statue of Liberty. My Nana would take me to see the Rockettes at Christmas and to lunch at Rockerfeller Center to watch the ice skaters, but we never visited the Empire State Building. When we attended my husband’s ten year high school reunion I was amazed how many people said they had not been to San Fransisco even though we live only 80 miles away. I’m sure most of you have similar experiences.

As the economy shrinks around us, and there is reason to believe a pandemic may be in the near future, this may be a good year to plan to stay close to home for your family vacation. Use the money you save to purchase food for your General Store and to stash a little cash for those unexpected expenses. Use this time as a family to spend time talking about those things which are really important. Last year I wrote an ebook about stay at home vacations, Pack Your Bags, We’re Staying Home and this year I’d like to share some more ideas to make this a vacation to remember.

Since this will take a little planning now is a good time to start. Contact your local Chamber of Commerce. They will have lots of information and pamphlets that they use for travelers as they pass through town. I know it’s hard to believe that travelers want to stop at attractions near your home but they do. When we live close we often overlook the fascinating options close to home. Decide, based on the age of your children just how far you are willing to drive in a day and write or visit Chamber offices our websites in those areas for their suggestions. Once you have this information sit down as a family and choose the things you want to do. Be sure you only tell them about those places you are really willing to go and to pay for.

We are currently planning a family reunion and we are staying close to home. My grandchildren 8 and 10 have been busy on the Internet looking for fun, free places close to our home, which is home base. We will return here each night and visit attracions only three days while we remain at home the other five. As we plan I’ll share their ideas with you and I would like to hear your ideas for a fun Staycation.

Tomorrow I will return to our Money Saving Wednesday posts so check back tomorrow for a return to frugality tips.

One Response to “Preparing for Summer Vacations”

1. kris says:

   May 27, 2009 at 4:30 pm

   Love this topic! We have over 60 summer actvities planned so far and we are still on the hunt for more! We are going to do some “mad science” activities like putting mentos in coke. I will surprise the kids with “safey goggles” (from dollar tree) and lab coats (men’s white shirts that my husband can’t wear). Can’t wait for what everyone shares! Love this site!