When you're given two days off of work in combination with the weekend, you may want to leave town for a brief vacation to relax and recharge. Whether you're taking the entire family, looking for a romantic getaway or making an escape by yourself, there are a number of options to consider. You'll return to work with new energy.
If you have extended family that you don't often get to see and they live within a short drive or flight away, take the long weekend to visit with them. Even though it's a short vacation, spending time with loved ones can help to keep your relationships strong. Plus, all the laugher you're likely to share during your chats will leave you feeling refreshed. Take the time to do something together that you've have always enjoyed. Maybe that's cooking an elaborate meal with your sister or spending the day antiquing with your cousin.
Everyone has times when they wish they could just get away from it all, including their friends and family. For those who have been feeling that way recently, take a four-day weekend vacation by yourself. A number of bed and breakfast establishments offer spa and massage services directly to your room. Treat yourself to a long weekend of pampering at one of them. Take some time to sit and read your favorite book on the large porch or take a relaxing walk through the countryside.
Spend the weekend camping in a nearby state park for an affordable family four-day weekend. For those that live in the city, taking even a short, one- to two-hour drive will put you in a rural state park. Pack your tent, sleeping bags, food and recreational items and head for the woods. A number of state parks throughout the country have a camp store on-site to provide you with any last-minute items. Rent a boat and go fishing or play a game of basketball or tennis with the kids. Take hikes to explore any of the park's notable features and land forms.
Take a four-day "staycation." In hard economic times, this option becomes popular. While you'll be staying in familiar surroundings, you'll avoid the stress and hassle of travel and you'll save lots of money. Take the four days to be a tourist in your own city or town. Many people live for years in an area, never taking time to explore the surrounding area in-depth. Check out that award-winning museum you've always heard about or new shopping area that just opened. Maybe you'd just prefer to stick around the house to start that special project you've been thinking about. While it may be a challenge while you're at home, resist the temptation to sit in front of the computer all day or catch up on work. This is a vacation, after all.
