As we get into the swing of summer, I’m sure most of us are a little bummed that our original vacation plans are not underway. While you might not be jet-setting to your ideal location, you can make your summertime just as magical without a passport!
Here are some fun ways to fuel your wanderlust and turn your own backyard into a dream destination.
- We all know refreshing signature cocktails (or “mock-tails”) are the key to ultimate relaxation on a vacation.
- Aperol Spritz
- This spritz takes you straight to the Mediterranean
- Pina Colada
- Treat your tastebuds to something tropical
- Coconut Water Lemonade
- Add tequila, rum or vodka to make an “adult version” of this thirst quencher
- Raspberry Limocello Prosecco
- Tastes like the Amalfi Coast is coming through your straw
- Sangria
- A pitcher of this and you’ll be ready to flamenco
Sangria in Barcelona
- A pitcher of this and you’ll be ready to flamenco
2. Dive into another culture with these delicious dishes because vacay calories don’t count!
- Tuscan Chicken
- When you dream of Tuscany, this dish will take you there
- Coconut Ice Cream
- Dress this dessert up (chocolate, nuts and whipped cream) to cool down
- Churros
- A fan favorite to please all your senses
- Paella
- Something new to try for a pleasant surprise
- Mediterranean Salmon
- Mama Mia! Who knew ~healthy~ could be so yummy?
- Mama Mia! Who knew ~healthy~ could be so yummy?
3. These small but important details set the mood to perfectly transform your staycation.
- Plant a lemon tree
- For all your citrus needs (for cocktails, in your recipes, for your hair, etc.)
- Grow your own herbs & veggies
- Mint, basil, tomatoes, and peppers are summer recipe staples
- Light a candle
- Smells trigger sensory memories, so light a candle specific to your place of choice, close your eyes and you will discover teleportation!
- Smells trigger sensory memories, so light a candle specific to your place of choice, close your eyes and you will discover teleportation!
- Go for a bike ride
- Let the breeze be your guide
- Lather yourself in scented oils
- Pikake oil/coconut oil/Moroccan oil are not only great for skin hydration but they will make your tan shine like the god/goddess you are
- Listen to the sounds of the place you wish to be. If you wish to be in,
- Italy: “Volare (Nel Blu Di Pinto Di Blu)” by Dean Martin
- Hawaii: “Burning Love” by Elvis
- Spain: “Vivir Mi Vida” by Marc Anthony
- Anywhere:
- When your imagination needs visualization, these classic movies will inspire your next trip:
- Under the Tuscan Sun (Hulu, Amazon Prime, YouTube)
- To Catch a Thief (YouTube, Amazon Prime, iTunes)
- Eat, Pray, Love (Amazon Prime, YouTube, iTunes)
- Mamma Mia (Hulu, Amazon Prime)
- Midnight in Paris (Amazon Prime, YouTube)
- Life of Pi (YouTube, iTunes, Amazon Prime)
- Coco (Disney+, Amazon Prime)
- Lilo & Stitch (Disney+, Amazon Prime)
- Letters to Juliet (Hulu, Amazon Prime, YouTube)
This way, you can still live your best life this summer and stay in your budget! Now, I’m going to dip my feet into the mini blow up pool, thank you very much.
G.
G's Footprints 