How to Create the Staycation of Your Dreams

Jun 26, 2020

We can all agree that the point of a vacation is to explore, enjoy plenty of R&R and step out of your daily routine. But if you daydream about achieving vacation bliss during these uncertain travel times, a staycation is just the ticket. We're not talking about the kind of staycation where you Netflix binge all day (although there is a time and place for that), we're talking about an experience that will make you look at your city in a whole new light. We're sharing 10 tips and tricks to create a staycation that will rival any getaway.

Photo: @obsidian courtesy of Airbnb

1. Make It an Overnight: Airbnb and VRBO are starting to open up and even just one night in someone else's cool digs can make a staycation feel like the real deal. Checking into a local hotel is the perfect way to escape into vacation mode. Did we mention room service? That's pretty much a given. (via Airbnb)

2. Play Photographer: Instagram and vacations go together like PB&J, but there is no reason you can’t go Instagram-crazy in your own city. Explore new areas and take photos from every angle. Afterwards turn the pics into a fun DIY project that will serve as a love note to your city. (via Artifact Uprising)

3. Act Like a Tourist: It might sound cheesy, but stick with us. Plenty of cities offer informational and digital tours that showcase the history, architecture and even hidden food scenes within a city. After all, you can learn something new everyday.

4. Eat Breakfast in Bed: Vacation time calls for leisurely mornings and nothing screams comfort more than breakfast food, coffee and a fluffy pillow. (via The Glitter Guide)

5. Don't Wait in Lines: The best part of a staycation is that you already know about the best places to eat that aren't always jam-packed. If you do want to try to attempt a foodie hotspot, just be sure to go there at non-peak hours and make a reservation if they now require one. (via @bangbangpie)

6. Try a New Restaurant, Even for Takeout. We all have that running list of restaurants that we plan on trying but never actually get to. Use a staycation as a chance to cross a few things off of your personal foodie bucket list, even if it's takeout in a local park. (via Tupelo Honey Cafe, Asheville, NC)

7. Take a Class: Learn how to whip up a new meal or try a new workout style; you might just discover a new interest that will last beyond the staycation. (via Brit + Co Classes)

8. Cook Something New. Whether you want to up-level your baking skills or dream up fresh summer recipes explore a new recipe to make and serve it up as one of your new staples. (via Brit + Co)

9. Go for a Bike Ride. It's the thing to do now. Find a trail near you and stock up on cute bike gear for a refreshing tour of your town. (via Outdoor Voices and Rapha)

10. Enjoy a Spa Day: A vacation does call for a hefty dose of R&R, so DIY yourself a spa day and get to pampering. (via Brit + Co)

How do you make the most of a staycation? Share with us @BritandCo!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

7 Incredible Day Hikes In The US For Your Summer Adventures

We're loving that longer days means we get more fun in the sun. Our favorite outdoor activity right now? Hiking. And there are plenty of trails to explore in the USA. You can rent an RV and make your way through the 50 states — think about all the different environments and nature you'll see!

Drive to a national park and ditch your wheels for a walk, or pack enough camping food and resources for the long haul and head into the woods for days or even weeks. We've rounded up a range of trails that will be kind to your feet (that is, hikes you can complete in a day) and totally worth it (thanks to the breathtaking vistas you'll encounter along the way). No matter where you are in the States, you'll certainly find one of these incredible hiking trails a true inspiration for the rest of your summer.

Overlook Trail and McWay Falls (Big Sur, California)

If you’ve been to Big Sur, you know there really are no bad trails to hike. It’s one of the most picturesque spots on the planet, and by hiking this area, you’ll get to take in plenty of outstanding vistas for little effort. Under a mile long, Overlook is a great hike to go on while enjoying views of the cliffs as well as the 80-foot McWay Falls.

Middle Emerald Pools Trail (Zion National Park, Utah)

At just over two miles, Middle Emerald Pools is a remarkably refreshing hike to take during Utah's sunniest days. Along with the unpaved climb to a sandstone ledge, you'll connect to the other Emerald Pools trails and the Kayenta trail on your way to the pool and waterfall.

Cascade Mountain Trail (Adirondacks, New York)

Northeasterners, you may want to drop want you're doing and make a beeline to the Adirondacks for some time in nature by way of the Cascade Mountain Trail. A little over five miles there and back, this scenic trail is fairly popular in the summer months with a few steep areas and plenty of wildflowers. It's an excellent hike to do solo, your social bubble, or even alongside your family.

Roanoke Trail (Nags Head Woods, North Carolina)

Located within the Nags Head Woods Ecological Preserve, this 1.5-mile roundtrip hike will take you through dune forests, salt marsh, and live oaks until you reach the coast. Gorgeous flowers and an array of vibrant birdlife occupy the area. There are several other trails in the areaas well if you feel this one isn’t challenging enough.

Lassen Peak Trail (Lassen Volcanic National Park, California)

Who wouldn’t want the chance to hike around a volcano? It’s only five miles out and back, so it’s definitely doable even for a less experienced hiker. NorCal summer weather stays fairly cool with highs just in the 70s, so a hike up this active volcano won’t leave you too hot. Plus it’s clearly an out-of-this-world experience.

Watkins Glen Gorge Trail (Watkins Glen State Park, New York)

This hike is just a bit over a mile each way, so it’s ideal for those who don’t exactly hike on the regular. It’s also best left for a hot day since it offers plenty of shade for cooling off. The trailhead starts at a cave then takes you past 19 different waterfalls, a feature few other trails could boast.

Reed Lakes Trail (Kenai Fjords National Park, Alaska)

Looking for an all-day, challenging hike with a huge payoff for your fitness *and* Instagram feed? Look no further than the Reed Lakes Trail, an nine-mile roundtrip hike where you'll gain thousands of feet in elevation through meadows, boulder fields, and up into the mountain. You'll finish with some jaw-dropping panoramic views.

In our opinions, these are some of the best hikes in the US, and even if they can be done in a day, that doesn't mean your explorations have to stop there — there's usually a town nearby with some local cuisine. So figure out which of these hiking trails you'd like to conquer and go for it!

What do you think the best hikes in the US are? Let us know on Twitter!

This article has been updated from a previous post.

20 Trader Joe's Finds That Will Make You Want To Eat Healthy This Year

Trader Joe’s, though very tempting with their vast array of sweet treats, is truly a secret weapon for eating healthy and sustaining a healthy diet. TJ’s aisles are packed full of nutritious (yet delicious) options, all of which are often easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Whether you’re focusing on fueling your workouts with protein, cutting back on sugar, or simply eating more whole foods in 2025, Trader Joe’s has plenty of affordable, wholesome finds to keep your diet inspired.

Below, find the best Trader Joe’s products that make sticking to your 2025 resolutions a breeze!

Trader Joe's

Creamy Dreamy Hummus

Hummus is an instant snack hack if you're trying to eat a high-protein diet – this $3 one from TJ's boasts a "thick, rich, and exquisitely creamy" texture. Slap it on a wrap or dip in some veggie sticks to give your meal a nice boost.

Trader Joe's

Vegetable Root Chips

These veggie root chips make a deliciously healthy swap for your traditional potato chips as they're packed with fiber and plenty of color to enjoy!

Trader Joe's

Organic Super Bread

Though you might not guess it at first glance, this loaf contains whole wheat flour, organic rye flour, organic rolled oats, organic millet, organic pumpkin seeds, organic flax seeds, organic sunflower seeds, organic carrots, organic dried apple, and organic dried banana – that's a mouthful! If your 2025 goal is to eat more whole foods without sacrificing a ton of familiar foods, this is the bread for you!

Trader Joe's

Cut Sweet Potatoes

These 'taters come already cut, so all you gotta do is toss 'em in some olive oil and spices, bake on a sheet pan, pair it with a protein, and voila! Dinner is served.

Trader Joe's

Organic Dried Ataulfo Mango Slices

These mango slices make a great healthy snack to enjoy on the go. They taste just like candy, except without all the excess processed sugar.

Trader Joe's

Solid White Albacore Tuna

Protein fiends already know what's up with canned tuna. It's the perfect base for tuna salads, wraps, and bakes. Plus, one can goes for just $2 at TJ's – stock up!

Trader Joe's

Caesar Broccoli Bake Kit

This pre-made kit makes getting a side dish on the table super easy and healthy. It comes with all the fixings, like Caesar dressing, crouton crumbs, and Parmesan cheese.

Trader Joe's

10 Minute Farro

Traditionally, farro takes anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to fully cook. This bag of Trader Joe's farro defies all tradition and is ready in just 10 minutes! The whole grain is really rich in protein and fiber, so you know you'll be eating healthy when you choose to chow down.

Trader Joe's

Vanilla Bean Whole Milk Greek Yogurt

Greek yogurt is *the* breakfast hack to rule all breakfast hacks. It's high in protein, plus is typically packed with plenty of probiotics to keep your gut real healthy. Enjoy a heaping scoop with some fresh (or frozen) fruit, granola, and honey to get a tasty start to the day.

Trader Joe's

Rainbow's End Trail Mix Bars

Healthy snacks can be really hard to track down at TJ's, especially since they have so many sinful goodies on their shelves. Luckily, these trail mix bars exist, bringing a yummy medley of oats, nuts, raisins, and chocolatey bits to satisfy that sweet tooth without weighing you down during the day!

Trader Joe's

Carb Savvy Tortillas

If you're set on watching your intake of carbs, these tortillas are a must-have. They contain 21% of your daily recommended value of fiber (6 grams each) according to TJ's, and make an excellent addition to wraps, quesadillas, or just as a snack.

Trader Joe's

Organic Brown Rice Cake Thins

These rice cakes may be thinner than most, but they still boast an enjoyably dense texture, perfect for layering on some peanut butter and banana for an easy, fulfilling snack.

Trader Joe's

Pulled Chicken Salsa Verde

This fully-cooked chicken is ideal for people seeking a convenient, time-saving meal. The salsa verde flavoring instantly qualifies them for delicious tacos, quesadillas, burritos, burrito bowls, nachos – the list goes on! Just pop it in the microwave for 4 minutes, and boom – time to eat!

Trader Joe's

Perfect Bar Peanut Butter Protein Bar

This protein bar is called the Perfect Bar because it's literally perfect. The sweetness is at just the right level, the texture is so satisfying, and the high protein content (17 grams) fills you up easily if you're seeking a substantial mid-day snack.

Trader Joe's

Classic Greek Salad

With this ready-made salad kit, you won't have to think too hard at all about what you're having for a healthy lunch. Feel free to grab 5 at a time, because you will be hooked. Add some chicken or salmon on top to bulk it up with extra protein!

Trader Joe's

Stir Fry Veggie Blend

Why pick up 5 or more individual ingredients for stir fry when you can just grab this $3 bag, cook it, and call it a day? We highly recommend cheffing this up with TJ's Soyaki sauce and your protein of choice.

Trader Joe's

High Protein Organic Tofu

One serving of this tofu contains 14 grams of protein, which is higher than what you can typically find elsewhere. Plus, it's certifiably organic, so it's always gonna be clean eating-friendly.

Trader Joe's

Organic Tricolor Quinoa

Quinoa makes an impressive grain base for bowls and salads. This one boasts a healthy mix of white, red, and black quinoa for some good variety!

Trader Joe's

Crunchy Curls

These 100% vegan bites are the ultimate movie snack and are way healthier than your average bag of theater popcorn. They're made with lentil flour and potato starch for a superb texture every time.

Trader Joe's

Organic Brown Rice & Quinoa Fusilli Pasta

This organic, gluten-free pasta delivers 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving, making each meal nutritious as ever.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more of the best Trader Joe's products!

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5 Easy Ways To Have A Fun Summer Break...Even With a 9-5

Life is nothing but a grand adventure, and the summer season just adds an extra *sprinkle* of magic to it all. Amidst your hustling (and bustling) 9-5 work routine, it's crucial to carve out time for fun so you can live like you’re on summer break – because having fun is what makes it all worthwhile.

So, while you sit in meetings as the calendar flies by, try to remember that life's true essence lies in those nights out, trips to the ice cream parlor, and spontaneous road trips. There’s an ultimate balance between work and leisure, you just have to find it!

Here’s a few ways to embrace the spirit of summer, even if you’re a corporate baddie. Your next adventure awaits!

1. Plan out your weekends.

Explore the magic of your community on the weekends (because it’s your best free time, after all) by immersing yourself in local events and farmer's markets, where the air is infused with creativity – and the tantalizing aromas of fresh produce.

You could also embark on day trips to hidden gems, whether it's a scenic hike or a seaside escape. If you’d like to be closer to home, indulge in a staycation, where you can bask in the comfort of home while treating yourself to relaxation and self-care.

Dive into pool days, or fire up the grill to light up sizzling BBQ parties that bring friends together.

Going out is always a good option for fun – sip on chilled drinks at rooftop bars or pubs while you embrace a go-with-the-flow mentality. Finally, you can also let your culinary prowess shine as you experiment with new recipes.

2. Take advantage of your 5-9.

Photo by Hanna Auramenka / PEXELS

Seize your pre-9-5 (AM or PM) free time like a boss: lace up your sneakers for a morning (or evening) walk and hit the pavement to conquer the world one exhilarating stride at a time.

You can also sweat it out like a real superhero after work at the gym, where muscles flex and endorphins dance to an invigorating beat.

If morning movement is just *not* your thing, unleash the power of friendship at happy hour with plenty of laughter, cocktails, and unforgettable moments that make the workday a distant memory.

3. Use vacation days.

If you’re not using your workplace’s vacation days, you’re 1000% missing out. Taking time off when you need it is the key to unlocking a world of sun-soaked adventures and blissful relaxation.

Embrace your freedom from work to wander places near or far to rejuvenate your summer spirit. You can also take this time to recharge, reset, and reconnect with yourself and loved ones!

4. Maximize your lunch break.

The summer lunch breakis a delightful oasis in the midst of woeful workday business. When lunchtime hits, step out into the radiant sunshine and let its warm rays re-energize you.

While you’re out, you can treat yourself to a delicious feast with a quick pickup order from a nearby restaurant, and quench your thirst with a refreshing bev. As you savor each bite and sip, take a moment to stretch and move around for your working body and mind. Summer is in the air, and your lunch break is the best excuse to hone in on those bits of joy.

5. Tick boxes off your summer bucket list.

Photo by Roman Odintsov / PEXELS

A summer bucket list serves as a beacon of excitement and inspiration for 9-5-ers, plus provides ample structure so that you *never* run out of things to do. Use your summer bucket list to break free from the monotony of your work routine and embrace adventure.

Sign up for our newsletter for more ideas on things to do this summer!

Header photo by Vlada Karpovich / PEXELS

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25 "Deep" Questions To Ask Yourself Before 2025 Begins

So, you've found your 2025 word of the year and are ready for the biggest reset of your life. Now all you have to do is map out how you're going to get there. You could opt for vague ideas that live only in your head, but when has that motivated you to achieve your goals in the past?

If you think we're putting you on the spot, we're not! We're here to encourage you to dream boldly by being detailed about what you actually want. Of course, we have the perfect list of deep questions and journal prompts so you can tap into the life you want to live.

Here are 25 deep questions to ask yourself and journal about to guide you toward your 2025 vision of personal growth and self-improvement:

Marcus Aurelius

Questions About Your Daily Routine

Please don't throw eggs at us! We know you don't want to feel governed by a schedule like you're in grade school, but there are benefits to having something to guide you daily. According to Northwestern Medicine, you can "reduce stress" and even "get better rest" by having a routine.

If you've been promising yourself to improve in these areas, here are 5 questions to ask yourself:

How many of hours of sleep do I typically get per night?
What distractions can I eliminate before bed so I'm not groggy in the morning? (i.e., no more binge watching my favorite TV shows or scrolling mindlessly on TikTok)?
Do I have a morning routine or do I rush through taking a shower, brushing my teeth, and eating breakfast?
How do I usually feel when I get to work?
Am I okay with setting a reminder for myself to take a break during the work day so I can stretch my legs, eat lunch, or go for a quick walk?

SHVETS production

Questions About Your Self-Care

Making time for your self-care is a part of your daily routine, but we want to dig deeper by sharing questions that'll help you reflect on how you treat yourself.

How do I want to feel about myself in 2025?
Did I have moments I looked in the mirror and didn't like the way my skin or body looked this year?
Have I been prioritizing my mental health?
Did I make space for exercising (i.e. walking, yoga, running, etc.)?
Did I create healthy boundaries with family, friends, or someone I'm dating?

Brit + Co

Questions About Your Career

We almost said, "Here comes the fun part," but that would be unfair for people who consider other areas of their lives more important to chasing a career. If you are focused on pursuing something you're passionate about or simply want to earn a new promotion, here's what you can ask yourself:

What are my biggest career accomplishments this year?
What skills do I need to sharpen that align with the position I want?
How do I respond to constructive criticism?
What is my usual response to change or tight deadlines?
Do I ask for help when I don't understand a project or concept?

Brit + Co

Questions About Your Home

Your home is anywhere that you live even if you're renting or living with your parents for the time being.

How did the energy in my home feel?
Did I do anything to make it feel like me?
How can I create a relaxing environment in my room that promotes rest and relaxation?
Do I want to have a certain aesthetic for my living room, office, etc.?
What does having a clean and organized home mean to me?

SHVETS production

Questions About Your Relationships

Have you been making excuses for toxic friends or ignoring red flags? If it's okay, we're going to sit by you and gently suggest it's time for a change. The kind of life you want to live can't be weighed down by old habits of yours or some of the people you've been spending time with, especially if you've been feeling uncomfortable.

What kind of friendships do I want to have in 2025?
Do I have a reliable support system?
What did I love about my romantic relationship this year?
Are there certain conversations I need to have with family members, friends, or my partner that I've been avoiding?
Do I need to change the way I show up in my platonic or romantic relationships?

Get a jumpstart on transforming your space for 2025 with easy feng shui tips!

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10 Epic Stores From The '90s We Can't Believe Are Gone

The '90s were a great time, according to millennials. It was a time of rollerblading, listening to cassette players, playing Super Mario Bros. on Nintendos, having birthday parties at Chuck E. Cheese, and more. Besides this and other pop culture moments that went viral before social media existed, the '90s gave us classic stores we used to frequent as kids.

Despite meeting their demise as the Y2K age took over, we'll never forget the fun memories (and maximalist vibes) these stores gave us!

Take a walk down memory lane by revisiting our favorite '90s stores that will take you back in time (and make you feel old):

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1. Party City

Our hearts are hurting because we don't understand why one of the most popular decor stores is closing. The brand was apparently facing "financial challenges," according to it's CEO Barry Litwin (via CNN). There were other issues behind the scenes, but everything trickled down to money, or a lack thereof.

It's so shocking because some of us just picked up a few holiday items from Party City this month! It was one of the stores that seemed to have everything we needed before Amazon became the mega wholesaler that it is today.

I guess this means we should've cherished Party City a little more because it's officially gone.

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2. Blockbuster

Long before streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock existed, people used to spend Friday nights looking at rows of VHS movies to rent. If you were lucky, your parents would stop by Blockbuster before picking up pizza for dinner. It was the ultimate '90s treat…until it wasn’t.

When we want to remember what it felt like visiting Blockbuster, we fast forward to that one scene in I Am Legend where Dr. Robert Neville is going to 'rent' movies. It's a little cringe now that we think about it, but it's the closet memory we have of spending at least 30 minutes picking out the VHS or DVD to watch.

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3. Circuit City

Raise your hand if you remember getting your first CD player or computer from Circuit City. The name alone conjures fun memories of running up and down the aisles pretending we could afford all the fun electronics. We watched desktop computers slowly morph into laptops, which seemed like an exciting time. Also, some of us watched our parents lament the cost of the required Texas Instrument calculators we needed for math class.

Although Circuit City isn't around like it used to be, we'll never forget watching the world change through its eyes.

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4. Virgin Music Store

If you wanted to be a part of the cool crowd, you visited the Virgin music store. We aptly remember the neon sign and memorable displays that beckoned to us. Although we could find some of the same CDs at Circuit City, the store’s design didn’t feel stuffy.

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5. Radio Shack

This one’s personal because we stood in lines with our parents when they bought their first cell phones and DVD players. Also, one of our parents may or may not have purchased a very coveted Bratz convertible that played music from Radio Shack.

Even though it wasn’t the biggest store, it gave us a taste of what the future had for us. Little did we know we’d lose this sweet store though.

6. Border's

As much as we love recommending books from Amazon and local bookshops, we miss when Border’s was around. There’s not much to say about this store besides how grown-up we felt when our parents would let us spend time there while they shopped at their favorite stores in the mall.

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7. KB Toys

Aside from Toys ‘R’ Us, we also remember when K.B. Toys was popular. Not unlike today, there wasn’t such a thing as having too many toy stores. Sometimes we found things at K.B.s that felt like a treat. The cluttered aisles probably annoyed our parents, but we were always happy when we were allowed to pick something out.

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8. Wet Seal

Yes, Wet Seal made the list of stores we loved in the '90s. Unlike Goody’s, it was specifically geared towards pre-teens and teens who wanted to wear the latest fashions. It was one of the the places to discover your style at the time even if it meant leaving piles of clothes for weary store associates to put back (sorry!)

Though we miss it, we hope no one tries to revive it because we’re sure we’d see a few outdated fashion trends.

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9. Esprit

This was another store that screamed 'All American Teen Store.' Unlike Wet Seal, the store's layout and clothing were a little more 'sophisticated.' It spoke to teens who are now adults with a sleeker preppy style. It sounds like a reach, but it's not if you think about it. This store could give you logomania, tenniscore, or something that resembled the outfits from Saved By the Bell at the same time.

10. Goody's

Were you really a '90s kid if your mom didn’t drag you to Goody’s? Shockingly enough, we hardly ever complained because it felt like a huge store we could play in. Plus, it had clothes for everyone.

And if there were a sale during BTS season? You could always count on our moms to leave the store with stuffed shopping bags.

Which '90s stores do you wish were still open? Let us know on Facebook!

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