Creating a Staycation Retreat in Your Own Backyard

ROSEVILLE, Minn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--From rising airfares and gasoline prices, to the hassle and stress of travel itself, there are a number of factors driving the ideal vacation spot closer to home.

“By planning ahead and creating an outdoor living room, homeowners don’t need to travel around the world to get rest and relaxation.”

In fact, many homeowners are opting to create a vacation spot in their own backyard. Dubbed a “staycation,” this at-home retreat is characterized by finding rest, relaxation and the amenities of a vacation in the comfort of one’s home.

“Whether the reason is to save money or avoid the hassle of traveling, vacationing at home allows for enjoyable time off without unnecessary worry,” said Michelle Sahlin, managing director, Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA). “By planning ahead and creating an outdoor living room, homeowners don’t need to travel around the world to get rest and relaxation.”

Vacations often lead to visions of sitting under a canopy or awning, drinking a glass of lemonade and enjoying beautiful scenery or landscape. Another vision is spending time with family, playing games and enjoying a few good meals. Whether vacationers opt for tranquility or activity, it can be achieved with a staycation.

Just like a vacation, a staycation requires some preparation. Here are some items to consider prior to the time off:

• Establish the official staycation timeline: To avoid falling into the daily routine around the house, create a start and end date to the staycation so it is a true vacation.
• Brighten the landscape: A freshly mowed lawn and flowers in bloom brighten any backyard. Plant a variety of flowers, update the landscape and incorporate a waterfall, fountain or focal point.
• Create an outdoor living room or kitchen: Extending outdoor living is one of the latest trends. And there’s no better time to have the new outdoor living room ready in time for enjoyable summer weather. By adding an awning or canopy over a deck or patio, the living space is versatile in a variety of weather conditions. A grill, cozy furniture, speakers and ambient lighting can also compliment the area.
• Stock up on games: From bocce ball and croquet to badminton and horseshoes, there are plenty of backyard games well-suited for family and friends. A game of cards or board games also make for more low-key activities.
• Find a good book: Grab a few good reads – a newly released book, a classic tale and a few favorite magazines.
• Plan a luau: Just because a flight to Hawaii is out of the picture for now, it doesn’t mean a luau can’t take place. Grab all the essentials – leis, tiki torches, pineapple, mango, a roast and Hawaiian music. Preparing for the evening ahead of time allows for easy implementation and enjoyment during the staycation.
• Plan a real vacation: After the staycation is complete, it’s time to plan a real vacation, away from home. Determine ways to save and budget for a future getaway after enjoying the comforts of home.

About PAMA

The Professional Awning Manufacturers Association (PAMA), a division of the Industrial Fabrics Association International (IFAI), is the only international trade association committed to the awning industry. PAMA membership is open to companies who are current members of IFAI and manufacture or sell awnings, as well as those who supply goods/services to the awning industry.

PAMA maintains two Web sites – www.awninginfo.com, which focuses on association members and commercial awning use, and www.awningstoday.com, which educates consumers about awnings and awning benefits.