The saddest day of the year is two days away – Monday January 15th.
Ok, that’s not the best way to start a fun and uplifting article, BUT, we’re here to save the day. We have to face it, January itself is not the most vivacious month and after just finishing with the Christmas holidays (which are usually busy and kind of stressful), the back-to-work and back-to-school grind can really, well, grind you down.
Never fear! There are so many ways to perk up and give yourself a much-needed breather, without an expensive trip or travelling to faraway places. The answer? A STAYCATION!
Over the coming weeks, our STAYCATION series will arm you with ideas to get away from home without breaking the bank or even taking up vacation days. Sound good?
Ya, we thought so.
This week, learn about how to staycation with the family.
Ok, let’s do this!
What to Pack
Don’t spend too much time on this. The best part about a staycation with the family is being comfy and casual. Make sure you’ve got your sweats, fave PJs, swimsuits and some games. Stop on the way to pick up a few snacks and voila, you are all set.
What to Do
On a staycation with children, we know there are a few key things that will always be a big hit, swimming being one (hint, that’s why packing the swimsuits is a priority). When you stay at any of our properties, you’ll have access to our beautiful pools. Lounge poolside while keeping an eye on your little ones. They’ll have so much fun and you’ll unwind in a comfy deck chair.
Possibly the very best part? All our pools have waterslides.
When you’ve had enough of the pool, retire to your room for a games night, break into those snacks and let the competitions begin.
Want a few more ideas for things to do in and around Red Deer, Hinton (remember, our Hinton hotels are just 10 minutes from the Jasper National Park gates), Jasper and Edson? Take a look below:
Where to Eat
Next to what you’ll be doing, where to eat is another big thing!
If you’re staying at any of our Holiday Inn Express locations or our Staybridge, get ready for an impressive breakfast, included each day of your stay! Beyond that, keep it simple! There are a range of family-style and fast-food options nearby our properties where you can grab a quick meal without breaking the budget.
If you’ve had more prep time, pack a cooler with light bites and snacks. Some of our go-tos are:
- Hummus with dip-ables like baby carrots, cucumber and tortilla chips
- Granola and/or protein bars
- Turkey and cheese tortilla pinwheels (just layer them up, roll and slice)
- A selection of juices
- Yoghurt with berries and granola
- Cheese and crackers
Remember, your staycation is probably just a night or two, so a few perishables in a cooler will be just fine.
With that, you can see just how easy it is to escape the doldrums of chores and dark days with a little staycation.
Are you in or around Red Deer, Hinton, Jasper or Edson? Perfect!
Book your STAYCATION at one of our hotels right here.
Next up in two weeks, tips for a couple’s STAYCATION!
