Getting out of town and planning a long weekend away or a week-long vacation is the ultimate getaway. Whether it is a domestic trip, an international trip, or a wellness retreat near or far, taking some time away can be one of the best ways to recharge, relax, and rest. It is even a great way to explore a new city, state, or town.
Unfortunately, travel can really add up. According to CNBC as of March 2024, airline ticket prices are up 25%, outpacing inflation, and depending on what airport you fly out of, tickets can average anywhere from $300-$500 or more, notes USA Today. One of the best ways to save money is to book a staycation in your own city or town.
I never understood the appeal of a staycation. I mean, why? If you live in the same city or town then why book a stay there? Well, after a lovely weekend stay at The Royal Sonesta River North Chicago, I finally understood what all of the hype was about. Oh and don’t worry, there are other properties nationwide if you are interested in booking a stay with the Royal Sonesta brand.
Okay, so what exactly is a staycation? A staycation is “A vacation spent in one’s home country rather than abroad, or one spent at home and involving day trips to local attractions.” If you are planning a staycation, here are twelve tips to make your staycation one of the best.
12 Tips for Planning a Staycation
#1 Book Somewhere New
If you always book a stay with the same hotel brand when you travel, try a new brand. You may even look for unique boutique hotels in your area that are only exclusive to your city, state, or town. (Oh, you so fancy).
If you are loyal to one hotel brand and cannot imagine booking with another one, check out a new neighborhood that you have always wanted to explore. A staycation is a great way to discover new areas in your community that you may not have otherwise been inclined to visit.
#2 Check Out the Amenities
After you check into the hotel, look at the hotel’s amenities. From fitness centers to onsite restaurants and spas and swimming pools, see what hotel amenities you have available to you during your weekend away. Book some spa services, dine onsite for every meal, swim the day away, or work out if you want. The staycation is yours to enjoy any way you like.
#3 Drink a Mocktail
The Sleepy Girl Mocktail is taking the internet by storm and Royal Sonesta properties continue their commitment to providing guests with an incredible sleep experience by adding the Sleepy Girl Mocktail to in-room dining. Yes, that is right people, you can order your very own handcrafted Sleepy Girl Mocktail. (Oh yes, it is just as delicious as it sounds). Cozy up in Royal Sonesta robes, order a Sleepy Girl Mocktail to your room, and enjoy your best home-away-from-home slumber. If you want more mocktail options, check out the Royal Sonesta’s non-alcoholic options for day-tripping guests. Sip, sip, hooray!
#4 Eat Like a Tourist
On the very first night of my stay at The Royal Sonesta River North Chicago, I ordered in one of my all-time favorite pizzas – Lou Malnati’s. Yeah, I know, I know, it is such the tourist thing to do – order deep dish pizza in Chicago, but hey, if I am booking a staycation in my own city and feel like channeling the vibes of all of the traveling tourists around me, you better believe I am ordering Lou’s deep dish pizza.
Plus, after a long week, it was the perfect way to kick off my staycation – a pajama party, pizza included, in a king-size bed. (Feel free to use this idea for inspiration when booking your next staycation. I highly recommend it).
#5 Take a Luxurious Bubble Bath
You always say you are going to take a bubble bath at home, but getting everything set up can sound exhausting, which is why you usually skip the soak and head straight to bed. On your staycation, take advantage of the giant soaking tub, turn on the jets, and create a luxurious spa experience right in your very own hotel room.
Add some bubble bath or bath salts, hey, why not both, light a candle, pour yourself a glass of champagne or wine, put on a face mask, and slip into some before-bed bliss as you relax and unwind. Maybe even bust into those turn-down service boxes of chocolates they left on your pillow. Ahhh …decadence is calling.
#6 Sleep In
One of the best things about a staycation is sleeping in. I mean, hello, what is not to love? A giant king-sized bed, clean and crisp white sheets, the coziest of comforters, and the fluffiest mound of pillows. (Cue the pillow fort building). Do not set any alarms, wake up slowly, and linger in bed with a big, fluffy white robe and a steaming hot cup of coffee. Talk about a relaxing morning.
#7 Go to Lunch
If you booked your staycation in a neighborhood that is new to you, or maybe a favorite spot that you never get over to, pick a new lunch spot to try. Even if it is a place you have been to before, maybe it has been a few years, swing on by and see what is new on the menu. Maybe even meet some friends for a bite.
#8 Walk Around
After you head out of bed and grab a bite to eat, explore the local scene of your home away from home. Check out cafes and coffee shops, stroll the tree-lined streets, and window shop or actually shop if you want to make some purchases. Whatever you decide to do, have fun exploring a brand-new neighborhood.
#9 Grab a Drink at the Bar
Once you head home after an afternoon of being out and about, head back to the hotel and get ready for a night out on the town. Before you head out for the night, stop by the hotel bar and order an adult beverage.
During my stay at The Royal Sonesta River North Chicago, I ordered the Beri Bramble – a perfect cocktail for two. Made with Absolut beri vodka, mint, fresh berries, lemon juice, and simple syrup, this cocktail was big, beautiful, and yes, perfect for two. Cheers!
#10 Try a New Restaurant
After some sips of some handcrafted cocktails, head out to a new restaurant. While at The Royal Sonesta River North Chicago, I jetted over to the Fire Lake Grill House and Cocktail Bar located in the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel for a delicious dinner. Need some recommendations? Start with a handcrafted cocktail or a glass of wine. (I recommend the How Do You Like ‘Em cocktail and the glass of the Malbec, maybe both).
For an appetizer, try the charcuterie board followed by a grilled Caesar salad. For entrees, I recommend the filet mignon with a side of truffle parmesan fries or the smoked pork ribs. Do you have room for dessert? Of course, you do! That is when you order the chocolate chip skillet cookie.
#11 Ask for a Late Check Out
Before you head up to bed after a night out in the city, ask for a late checkout. Sometimes the hotel can swing it, but knowing you have an extra hour to sleep in and pack up can give you peace of mind there is no rush the next morning. Translation: That means you get to sleep in all over again.
#12 Book a Brunch
Once you check out, see if you can snag a brunch reservation at the hotel’s restaurant. I dined at CBR for a farewell brunch and it was the best decision I made. I highly recommend the mimosas, the Nutella waffles served with fresh berries, and the signature Chicken and Waffles, which comes with a mini bottle of their signature hot honey that you get to take home with you. (It is seriously so cute and super tasty too).
Stay for a Staycation
The next time you want to plan a weekend away, look into saving some money with a local staycation in your very own city or town. Book a stay in a new area, explore the local surroundings, and make the most of it with the ultimate staycation. Happy staycation everyone!
