How to have the best staycation

East, West, home's best as the old saying goes, and for many people, the opportunity to spend some time at home after a hectic year is bliss. And a staycation can be a fantastic way to unwind, bond with your family and really enjoy the comforts of your home without the stress of travel.

Here are some tips to make the most of your staycation:

*Create a schedule or list of activities for each day, such as movie marathons, board games, cooking together, arts and crafts sessions, indoor/outdoor scavenger hunts, or even creating a home spa day with DIY facials and massages.

*Become a tourist in your own town. Research nearby places you've never visited before and explore parks, museums, hiking trails, or local landmarks. Sometimes we overlook nearby attractions that can be just as enjoyable as distant ones.

*Create a relaxing environment. Take the opportunity to decorate your home, rearrange furniture, (slowly) clear out cupboards and declutter, and really make the most of any outdoor living area such as a patio or lapa so that you can enjoy a leisurely early morning coffee or evening meal in the fresh air.

*Cook and bake with your family. Experimenting with new recipes or baking holiday treats together can be a fun and delicious way to bond and create lasting memories.

*Have theme days sometimes such as a pajama day, a costume day, a game tournament day, or a day dedicated to a particular country's cuisine and activities.

*Make the most of good weather by spending time outdoors playing games, having a picnic or organising a braai (or several) with friends and family.

There's no doubt that staycations are more budget-friendly and a lot less stressful than  travelling during a peak holiday season. However, the real key to maximum enjoyment is to actually disconnect for this time from routine chores, work-related tasks and screens (except for planned entertainment) while immersing yourself fully in the holiday experience at home. Enjoy the time together with your loved ones and make it as memorable as any other holiday you've ever taken!