With gas prices in the tolerable range, and the situation remains precarious jobs, many families are waiving their usual weeks-long vacation. You always want to escape - in fact, many are - but seem to be lost for ideas. This is a version of "not seeing the forest for the trees" approach: They do not realize, or perhaps forget the important objectives that are so close to home. The following steps will help you change your point of view during the holidays, and with a little luck you will get motivated toway.

First, understand that there is no need to relax, for seven or 10 days, to refuel. I spent three days in another country over the past year, and felt great. I had a purpose for the trip - genealogy research - and while I spent time with the judge and the trip to the cemetery, it was nice to be removed. In late afternoon I was back at the hotel. After a few seconds dip in the pool I was in the lobby, relax with a cool drink. Nothing, you see. But thisOk. The key is to escape to a new environment. You need to get away from the four same four walls, you see 24 hours a day. What a change, even in a modest hotel, can do wonders. A few tips to note:

1. Staying at home --

You must not drive away. How far is far? That depends on your tolerance for driving, but if you consider that you'll be gone only two or three days to keep it within three hours. (I prefer two hours.) Grave a map and draw aRepresentatives of this distance circle of your city. Look what is in it. Could be dozens of communities that you've never visited before. Literally a point on the map and say, "Let's go there." And what, you ask?

2. Do some research on the 'Net --

Each community, of any size is a website. See for yourself the attractions, hospitality and events. Not too, wrapped himself in the planning, however. Part of the fun comes from holidayWinged when they arrived. I like to reserve first for peace of mind. But beyond that, simply create a list of possible activities. They may include:

- Review a craft fair or carnival

- Touring is a great company, like a brewery, wine, furniture manufacturers, or other companies. They would like a tour of interest may be surprised, especially if the group is small.

- Visit or attend a local event. These are usually linkedthe history of the community and could farm or specific area. A municipality in southwestern Wisconsin has a cow chip throwing contest every summer. Hey, how many times you get a chance?

3. Consider all the options for accommodations --

I prefer to stay at the hotel, because I enjoy lounging in a pool, but there are other possibilities. Some people enjoy the comfort and familiar surroundings of a bed and breakfast. If gambling is your thing, check to remainadjacent to the hotel. If you feel that a lot, a fairly simple and clean motel.

From time to time may be owners willing to rent a room for a weekend or other short time. This is usually done in conjunction with a major event in the region. Hotels are fully booked, and homeowners benefit from the massive influx of visitors. Milwaukee-area residents that the experience at the meeting for lovers of Harley-Davidson.

As you can see, a trip to a nearby communityIt can be fun and relaxing. You will not be far away, so as not to be stressed by the guide. It is also much cheaper than a holiday standard. The best part is, you go home rested. You have your limits always behind (along with the laptop and Blackberry), and immersed himself in a new environment for several days. Can you and your family have to travel so much, it will do several times a year. Bon voyage!