How to Create the Staycation of Your Dreams

Diana Kelter
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.

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Woah! The 'Office Romance' Cast Is Stacked With All Your Fave Stars

Jennifer Lopez may be all over our FYPs, but she's also about to be all over the big screen as well. As some of you may know, she's producing the amazing Emily Henry adaptation Happy Place,and now she's set to work on a new romance with Ted Lasso star and writer Brett Goldstein. And guess what? The two will star in the film as well! Keep reading for all the latest information on the new movie — and Brett Goldstein's IRL crush on J-Lo ;).

What do we know about Office Romance so far?

Frazer Harrison / Getty

According to Deadline, there was a huge bidding war over the Office Romance rom-com, and Netflix ended up winning. Jennifer Lopez's production company, Nuyorican Films, is going to be working on it, thanks to Jennifer's multi-movie deal with Netflix.

As to who will star in it? Jennifer Lopez and Brett Goldstein themselves! Both are playing dual roles of writer/actor and producer/actress. We've all seen Brett Goldstein's incredible writing at play with Ted Lasso, and now we can't wait to see how it translates in this office romance with J-Lo. Brett will be writing the film alongside writer Joe Kelly.

Has cast information been shared? 

Yes! One of Netflix Film shared news about the cast today on Instagram and we're in disbelief over how good it is. Just Jared also shared who everyone will be playing which makes us even more eager to watch Office Romance. Here's the full cast list:

  • Jennifer Lopez as Jackie Cruz
  • Brett Goldstein as Daniel Blanchflower
  • Betty Giplin as Sydney
  • Edward James Olmos as Captain Jack Cruz, Jackie's father
  • Bradley Whitford as Peter Vance
  • Amy Sedaris as Julie Schatz
  • Jodie Whittaker as Lizzy
  • Mary Wiseman as Clair
  • Roger Bart as William Butten
  • Tony Hale as George Zein
  • Rick Hoffman as Carl Gunderson
  • Natalie Ortega as Heather
  • Jackie Sandler as Caroline
  • Tony Plana as Francisco Alberto
  • Michelle Hurd as Rachel Goldberg
  • Mo Welch as Debbie
  • Donald Elise Watkins as Henry
  • Brian Gallivan as Frederick
  • Ali Stroker as Maggie
  • Scott Seiss as Dave
  • Lisa Gilroy as Tanya
  • Will Sasso as Larry

How does Brett Goldstein feel about J-Lo?

David Livingston / Getty

Immediately after news was released about the two co-starring together, fans were so quick to find a clip on X from an interview in 2018 where Brett is talking about J-Lo's movie, Hustlers. He says in the interview, "She's 50! 50! I love her." He then goes on to say, in regards to a scene where Jennifer cuddles another actress in the movie, "I've never wanted to be cuddled more. That is one of the best cuddles. Give me one of your special cuddles." Based on this reaction, we just know their chemistry is about to be off the charts!

What else is Jennifer Lopez working on?

Amazon

Office Romance isn't the only rom-com J.Lo is working on! She's also working on adapting the EmHen book Happy Place for Netflix, which we all know and love (Hi, Emily. We love you!). It will be a multiple-part series on the platform with Leila Cohan from Bridgerton co-Executive producing it.

According to Deadline, Cohan will be the showrunner and co-writer for the series, which we are so excited for as Bridgerton-lovers! As for other future projects, we can't wait to see more news of projects J.Lo is working on, because if these two are any signifiers, then we know it must be good! You can also stream The Mother and Atlas on Netflix now.

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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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Target's New Kate Spade Collection Is The Spring Refresh You're Looking For

Spring has officially bloomed because Target & Kate Spade New York are dropping a refreshing collection that will be all over TikTok and Instagram soon. We haven't been this excited for a fashion collab since J. Crew & Christopher John Rogers, so we're aching to share all the fascinating news about it. Ready to see what's in store?

Keep scrolling to learn everything about the Target & Kate Spade New York collection!

What can I expect from the Target & Kate Spade New York collection?

Target

This limited edition collection will feature the brightest, boldest colors and prints you can think of. From fuchsia to polka dots, shoppers will can get a taste of luxury without spending an exuberant amount of money. Plus, the pieces are functional and work for an array of situations.

Hosting a spring soirée at home or plan on lounging by the pool The White Lotus-style? The Target & Kate Spade New York collection has everything you need.

Will it only have women's apparel?

Target

It brings us great pleasure to say no! Everyone will be able to find something they love in this collection because it features women's & kids apparel, home decor, chic accessories, and party decor.

How big is the collection overall?

Target

It seems like Target & Kate Spade New York are anticipating people having a ton of fun this spring because they have over 300 items shoppers can choose from. There's even games you'll be able to buy and put out for guests at the next barbecue you're invited to!

When can I shop the Target & Kate Spade New York collection?

Target

Get your carts and wallets ready because the Target & Kate Spade New York collection will be available to shop on Target.com Saturday, April 12.

Stay tuned to see our favorite pieces from the collection once it launches.

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'Outlander' Fans Rejoice: 'Blood of My Blood' Will Fill The Historical Romance Void This Summer

Fans have been enthralled by Outlander ever since it debuted in 2014 — hence why the show has gone on to have seven successful seasons, with the eighth and final season expected to premiere late this year or in 2026. Fans truly can't get enough of Claire and Jamie's great romance, and it doesn't have to completely end with season 8...or not exactly. Outlander prequel, Blood of My Blood comes out this summer and explores your favorite family from a very unique perspective. This is everything we know about Blood of My Blood!

Here's everything you need to know about the Outlander prequel, Blood of my Blood.

What's 'Outlander' about?

Starz

Outlander follows Claire Randall, a British Army nurse who, after serving in World War II, goes on a second honeymoon in Scotland with her husband, Frank. He is an MI6 officer preparing for a new career as an Oxford historian.

However, Claire's life takes a dramatic turn when she is mysteriously transported back to 1743, where her safety and freedom are at risk. In order to survive, she marries a strong and charismatic Scots warrior named Jamie Fraser. Then, as their relationship deepens, Claire finds herself torn between two very different men and two conflicting worlds.

How many seasons of 'Outlander' will there be?

Starz

Whether you're an OG fan of Outlander or a newcomer, many are upset about it coming to an end soon with Season 8. The good news is that you have a prequel series to look forward to, Outlander: Blood of My Blood.

What is the 'Outlander' prequel 'Blood of My Blood' about?

Starz

Outlander: Blood of My Blood explores two parallel origin stories: the romance between Jamie's parents, as well as Claire's parents' love story during the war. The show will highlight these two love stories, set in different time periods, as they unfold side by side.

Who's in the 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' cast?

Starz

Hermione Corfield and Jeremy Irvine star as Julia Moriston and Henry Beauchamp; meanwhile, Harriet Slater and Jamie Roy play Ellen MacKenzie and Brian Fraser.

The rest of the cast includes:

  • Tony Curran, Rory Alexander
  • Séamus McLean Ross
  • Sam Retford
  • Conor MacNeill
  • Brian McCardie
  • Jhon Lumsden
  • Sara Vickers
  • Peter Mullan
  • Sally Messham
  • Terence Rae
  • Sadhbh Malin
  • Alisa Davidson

Is there a trailer for 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Starz

Back in January, Starz released a 52-second teaser trailer for the show on YouTube, and it's clear the Outlander prequel will be packed with just as much passion as the original series. Eager fans in the comment section seemed to agree, with many sharing their excitement for the new spinoff.

"I can't wait to see the two love stories that gave us our favorite love story," wrote one viewer.

"I am so obsessed with Outlander, and I'm so excited to keep watching it in a different light," added another.

"Outlander is a very beautiful but brutal story, and I hope this new spinoff series captures that magic as well," noted a third.

Where can I watch 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood'?

Starz

You can watch Blood of My Blood on Starz!

When does 'Outlander: Blood of My Blood' come out?

Starz

Outlander: Blood of My Blood is set to premiere summer 2025! We don't have an exact date right now, but we'll update you as soon as we do! In the meantime, you can revisit the original Outlander series. All seven seasons are available to stream on Hulu.

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