We all need a vacation, whether with the entire family or your significant other. However, the economy is affecting all parts of our life. Unfortunately, many of us will not be able to follow through with vacation plans. But now, there is an alternative that is catching on rather quickly and it is called a “Staycation”. A staycation is just what it sounds like, a vacation but you stay at home. It might not sound interesting, but you can turn it into a fun and relaxing getaway.

Start planning, it is the best way to decide what you would like to do. You can plan some events so you don’t have to figure things out as you go along.

Tell family and friends your plans. This way, in their eyes you are truly on vacation and need only contact you in case of an emergency. Unplug the TV, this is a staycation, you can watch TV any time. Only turn it on if you choose to have a movie night with the family, this way you can all gather around and enjoy some popcorn and a movie.

Go outside, don’t let the kids sleep all day. Go out and birdwatch, go fishing, explore the parks and nature, take in all you can of the outside world. Take a trip to the free zoo, they usually have one in at least one County. You can even have a relaxing day at the beach, soak in some sun, and let the kids go swimming. If it is Winter, have them go outside and everyone build a snowman, run and play in the snow, and then snuggle to a nice move with some hot cocoa.

Go on a picnic, have the kids fly kites, and play wiffle ball. Bring some bubbles, and have a nice day with the wind blowing in your hair. Watch as the kids run and play and enjoy the beautiful outdoors.

Camping is another fun way to have a staycation. If you have a tent, you can put it up in your own back yard and cook marshmallows on your grill. If you have a camping ground in your area, you can go camping for a day or two and show the kids how it is to live right in the heart of Mother Nature. » Read more: Planning A Staycation

Lisbon (Lisboa) is a legendary city with over 20 centuries of history. The capital of Portugal since the Moorish conquest of 1147, it is extremely likable and lively, boasting an array of activities demanding one’s undivided attention… well, at least for the first few days. As our company of friends recently found out for ourselves, there is much more to Portugal once you satiate yourself with Lisboa’s flavour. Actually, there’s so much to explore in this relatively small country, that we had to argue about which of our favourite destinations to include in the list below.

So, if you find yourself bored in Lisbon with several days left on your holiday, why not make the most of your holiday, rent a car and hit the road? We propose the following itineraries–each within a day of round-trip driving from Lisboa.

Day trip 1: Porto
Do not stop on the way, for there is plenty to see in Porto–Lisboa’s rival city. Snap pictures around the Cathedral area, try the amazing sushi and ceviche at the riverside quarter of Ribeira, browse the market of Bolhão, shop at the Baixa (down-town). And, of course, be sure to stop by the Port Wine Museum (and then try some of the namesake).

Day trip 2: Quelus – Sintra -Azenhas do Mar – Cabo de Roca
Visit the museum Palácio de Queluz, one of the most magnificient palaces in Europe. Have a birds-eye view in Sintra, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from either the Moorish Castle or the Pena Palace. Stop by the seaside village of Azenhas do Mar (for an octopus specialty), then have a quick peek at the Roca Cape lighthouse at the westernmost point of Europe. But hold onto your hat, because there you’ll be met with a powerful ocean breeze.

Day trip 3: Cascais – Estoril
Give yourself the royal treatment and sun-bathe at Spanish kings’ favourite harbour town of Cascais (you could also visit the local castle ruins or the sea park). Have a seafood lunch in the town of Estoril, » Read more: 7 Day Trips From Lisbon to Spice Up Your Portugal Holiday