Holidays are all about taking a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, giving you time to truly unwind. But travelling abroad often comes with long preparation times, not to mention the rising costs in recent years. That’s why a staycation — a holiday spent at home — is the perfect alternative. Not only does it save you money, but it also spares you the stress of travel planning.

The best part is, you won’t be missing out on a fun or restful experience. Quite the opposite! With our tips, you can create your own exciting mini-holiday right at home or nearby. And if you like capturing memories, why not send a personalised photo postcard to friends and family, sharing your staycation adventures?

1. Discover and spruce up your garden

For many people, autumn is the ideal time to enjoy peaceful afternoons in the garden. With mild temperatures even at midday, it’s perfect for soaking up the last of the season’s sunshine. Don’t worry if you don’t have a garden — a sunny spot on your balcony can be just as relaxing!

There are so many ways to make the most of your garden during autumn. Some enjoy hosting small BBQs with friends, while others take the chance to tend to their plants and prepare them for winter. Whether you prefer a social gathering or some quiet gardening, the key is to take things slow, relax, and avoid stress. After all, this is your holiday!

2. Spend a day in your local park

A staycation doesn’t mean staying at home all the time. A trip to your local park can provide a lovely escape from your daily routine. Autumn transforms parks into beautiful spaces with colourful falling leaves, creating the perfect backdrop for a day out. 

Why not try something new while you’re there? You could explore exciting outdoor activities like disc golf, speedminton, or spikeball. The cooler autumn temperatures are ideal for getting active without overheating. And even if it rains a little, it’s all part of the fun. After your activities, enjoy a laid-back picnic with friends and family, making the most of the autumn atmosphere.

3. Cook with fresh autumn veggies

If you’ve had your fill of frozen vegetables, autumn is the season to indulge in fresh, locally grown produce. Between September and November, you’ll find an abundance of vegetables like aubergines, broccoli, peppers, tomatoes, zucchini, and more at your local markets.

A staycation is a great opportunity to try new recipes. Why not challenge yourself in the kitchen? For a warming dish on cooler days, try making a hearty broccoli soup with onions and garlic. Or, if you’re craving something more filling, prepare a cabbage stew with potatoes (either vegetarian or with meat) — it’s the perfect comfort food for autumn evenings.

4. Visit the 2024 harvest festival in your town

The traditional Harvest Festival is held on the first Sunday in October — this year, it falls on 6 October. Many towns and cities hold celebrations to give thanks for the season’s harvest. If your town doesn’t host one, you might want to travel to a nearby community that does. 

It’s worth the trip to add some variety to your staycation. The festival atmosphere is lively and fun, often featuring parades, music, and a fairground vibe. You might even find a church service as part of the celebrations, which adds to the cultural and historical experience. Even if you’re not religious, it’s an interesting event that connects you to local traditions.

5. Explore local hiking trails

Just because you’re on a staycation doesn’t mean you need to stay indoors. Autumn is the perfect time to explore the great outdoors, with mild temperatures that make hiking more enjoyable. Many people find autumn to be the best season for hiking, as you can take longer walks without overheating, and the autumn colours create stunning landscapes.

There are hundreds of hiking trails across Germany, and chances are you’ll find several near your home. Some trails lead through parks and countryside on the outskirts of towns, while others take you up nearby hills or mountains. It’s a great way to stay active, enjoy nature, and soak up the last of the autumn sun before winter sets in.

6. Board games are must for a staycation

While digital entertainment is more accessible than ever, board games are experiencing a resurgence in popularity. They offer a great way to bring people together, whether it’s family, friends, or just a couple looking for something fun to do. Board games are a staycation essential, especially for families with children — but they’re just as fun for adults too.

On those cosy, rainy autumn days, there’s nothing better than a good board game. Classic games like Catan, Monopoly, and Trivial Pursuit offer entertainment for all ages. But if you’re in the mood for something new, autumn 2024 has some exciting releases to try: Trekking, Harmonies, and Sky Team are among the most popular new games of the year.

7. Fly a kite in the autumn breeze

Autumn is known for its windy weather, making it the perfect time for kite flying. If you’re looking for a fun outdoor activity for your staycation, kite flying is a great choice — and it pairs perfectly with a picnic in the park.

You can find beginner-friendly kites for as little as 10 to 20 euro, but there are more advanced options if you want to invest in something special. Just remember to wear gloves while flying your kite to avoid getting cut by the string, and be sure to pack up if you notice any signs of an approaching storm — lightning is no joke!

8. Finally tackle your streaming watchlist

How many times have you added films or series to your streaming watchlist, only to never have the time to watch them? A staycation is the perfect opportunity to slow down and finally get through that list at your own pace.

This is especially appealing on rainy days or during chilly autumn evenings when staying inside feels like the best option. Wrap yourself up in a cosy blanket, settle in on the sofa, and dive into your favourite series or movies without the usual time pressures. It’s a relaxing way to spend your holiday, whether you’re watching solo or with a partner.

9. A staycation is not for chores!

Lastly, it’s important to remember that a staycation is still a holiday — it’s not the time to tackle your to-do list. While it might be tempting to tick off some home improvement projects, like painting walls or renovating the bathroom, these tasks can end up adding stress rather than helping you relax.

Of course, some household chores are unavoidable, but during your staycation, focus on activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Treat your time at home as you would a holiday in a hotel — keep the everyday tasks to a minimum and make relaxation your main priority.

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