With fall and winter on the horizon, the months of busy summer travel are over. But the desire to travel is still ever present.
Once the rush of fall begins -- kids’ school, holidays and life -- it can be difficult to get away for an extended vacation. But think about this: In a way, it’s during this time that it almost seems even more important to take some time to escape and recharge.
The solution is right in front of us: Take a staycation -- a vacation you can take close to home. It’s the perfect way to mentally check out of daily life, but in a way that allows you to recharge and get back to life in the short time you have.
Gilles Cassiani, the general manager of Brownwood Hotel & Spa, part of AHC Hospitality, said when thinking about choosing a place for a staycation, it’s important to allow yourself to roam free, close to home, in a way that is memorable and different.
There are three main things he suggested you might consider when you begin planning a staycation:
1. Where you will go
When you’re considering where to go, think about what you want to get out of it. Is it relaxation? Is it entertainment? Is it a place where you can treat your palate with different foods?
Or, perhaps, if you’re catering to more than just yourself, you’d want all the above.
Be sure you know what you want out of the trip, and that the place you choose can fulfill all your wishes, in a unique and special way.
2. What you will do
Whether you’re taking a staycation by yourself or bringing the whole family or friends, there will probably be several things you have in mind to do while you’re taking your mini vacation:
Relax
If you’re looking to rejuvenate, consider a hotel spa where you can experience balance and tranquility, in a warm and serene environment, while taking advantage of all the spa has to offer.
For example, Cassiani said the spa and salon at Brownwood Hotel provides its guests access to a variety of things that will ensure they experience ultimate relaxation. Some of these include, but are not limited to, custom massages, reflexology, personalized skin care with experts, manicures and pedicures, as well as a salon.
Enjoy unique culinary experiences
Dining out might be one of the best parts of getting away, especially when you can experience food that you don’t have to cook, is different from your norm and is delicious.
Taking a staycation that allows you to have all these things can be important, so when a place presents the opportunity to do it in multiple ways, that can be quite enticing.
Cassiani said Brownwood Hotel & Spa gives its guests some very different options, from fine dining to a food truck.
Many have heard of the Wolfgang Puck Kitchen + Bar – one of the most recognized names in the culinary world, with global-inspired food and a lively atmosphere. It lives directly next to the Brownwood Hotel & Spa and allows for a pop-in casual lunch, brunch or a dine-in experience.
For those who want a much different pace, the Chuck’s Wagon food truck that sits just outside the Brownwood Hotel & Spa in an active and communal space offers more fun over fancy. Open for lunch and in the open air of the courtyard, it has everything from American classics to burrito bowls and more.
Engage in social events and night life
If you’re up for doing something fun, look at what kind of events and night life a hotel has to offer. Do you like live music or engaging in a wine tasting?
Cassiani said Brownwood Hotel & Spa has a plethora of social events that include sip-and-learn conversations, concert series and wine dinners, among others. Plus, the lobby bar is a common area where anyone can enjoy a cozy space with a cocktail and snacks.
3. What’s in the area
When choosing a place to take a staycation, you’ll want to consider what the surrounding area has to offer. Look around the area near any potential hotels where you might choose to stay. What might you want to do on your getaway?
Cassiani said Brownwood Hotel & Spa, which is in The Villages, is located near the Brownwood Paddock Square -- an area that offers nearly anything someone could want: retail therapy, athletic clubs, food and so much more.
Making a decision
When you put all these considerations together, you should be able to come up with a place that will serve you well and satisfy what you’re needing from a staycation. Check all the boxes you need to.
Cassiani said at Brownwood Hotel & Spa, the essence of the hotel is to embrace the spirit of the Floridian cowboy. He said they do that by honoring the past, engaging in the present and pioneering the future. He said they strive to provide unparalleled hospitality by constantly exploring new territory and encouraging guests to always roam free.
To learn more about enjoying a staycation at the Brownwood Hotel & Spa, click or tap here.