5 Ways To Travel Without Going Very Far

What I wouldn’t give to be able to hop on a plane at my leisure and fly around the globe. With new languages to learn, new food to try, and new people to meet, I don’t think I would ever tire of it.

My reality is quite different. I can’t afford grand, spur of the moment vacations, but that call to go out into the world and explore it is still there. What’s a girl to do?!

Here are the five things I do to keep my cabin fever from getting too bad, and to conserve money.

#1: Plan Your Next Vacation

It’s never too early to get started. Not only will you give yourself plenty of time to discover hidden treasures (and maybe even discounts), but knowing what you want to see, where you want to stay, and the things you plan on spending your money on can help you know what you need to save.

#2: Visit Your Local Library

Yes, this is different from research. It’s great to go to your local library and pick up a few travel books, but don’t neglect the other sections! A bit of escapism is healthy for the mind and soul. If you know you want to visit a specific place, you could pick up novel set in that area. Otherwise, sci-fi and fantasy are good travel options too.

#3: Cook Something Exotic

Growing up, Chinese food was something I ordered in from a favoured takeout restaurant. Except for an occasional stirfry, Asian food just wasn’t something we made for ourselves. I was looking into moving to South Korea when I decided I would learn how to make Asian food, and while I didn’t end up there, now I dip into those recipes when I feel the need for an escape. Tikka Masala, Char Siu Bao, and Budae Jjigae are my favourites!

#4: Go for a Walk

I live in a fairly wooded area, and there’s a place just down the street which I call ‘Beyond the Beyond’. I’ve been around there a couple of times, but there are still lots of interesting bits of forest and side roads to go down and explore. If you’re ever in need of something new, pick a direction you’ve never been in before, and start walking. Let your feet guide you.

#5: Mini-Road Trips

I’m just learning how to drive, something I’ve put off for what my family considers far too long. Like the walks, a little bit of driving can go a long way. Grab your camera, notepad, sketchbook, whatever creative outlet you love before you head out. A different setting and a bit of imagination can have you feeling like you’ve gone to wonderland and back!

Combine a few of these things, and you can have a mini-vacation on your weekend. What are some of the ways you travel without going very far? Let me know in the comments!