We vacationed just an hour from home. It was more relaxing than our bigger trips.
A parent describes the benefits of taking a low-stress, local vacation just an hour from home after a busy season of family events. By avoiding tourist traps and elaborate planning, the family found the trip more restorative than traditional long-distance travel.
Why it matters
It highlights the growing trend of 'micro-cations' and the importance of prioritizing mental rest over traditional travel expectations.
The author rented a house only an hour away from their home for their vacation. Courtesy of the author After a packed spring, I didn't have the energy for an elaborate family vacation. We rented a house an hour away and deliberately made almost no plans. My older kids loved the slower trip and unanimously said they'd do it again. My family had an exceptionally busy spring. This year, we threw in an early college graduation , a high school graduation, and a wedding. Each week was full of senior events and wedding plans. I was tired. My kids were tired. As much as we wanted a family vacation, the idea of planning something felt overwhelming.
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