How far in advance do you make plans for spring break? We usually have a rough idea early in the New Year and book by mid-February (is that late?). There’s always the question of whether we’re going to go on an actual vacation versus staycation. Here’s how we decide.
This year, we’re Maui bound. While I’m looking forward to tropical breezes and drinking from a coconut, I’d be lying if I didn’t admit I’m a bit freaked out about the tumble the Canadian dollar has taken.
Vacation versus Staycation
One thing we always have to consider when deciding if we’re going to vacation versus staycation is what’s going on in the calendar. Do we have the time to get away or will it feel rushed? It can take forever to get a specialist doctor’s appointment, so if we have one of those or an important work thing that usually takes priority.
The other major factor is budget. Canadians travelling to the US (or anywhere outside the country) have to factor in the exchange rate. Sometimes it works in your favour – Japan is particularly affordable right now. Other times it doesn’t seem worth it to pay an extra 10%. The Canadian dollar can either be at 80 cents to the USD or 70 cents and this difference matters.
With all this in mind, here’s a smack down of staycation versus vacation destinations to consider in these last few weeks (months?) of winter.
Family Trips for Calgarians
Staycation
Drumheller is an easy choice for us. The Royal Tyrrell Museum is world class and only a 90-minute drive away from Calgary. Spend the day at the museum, explore the hoodoos (I’m amazed these aren’t yet fenced off and people can scramble over them) or climb to the top of the world’s largest T-Rex.
Stay at either the Ramada or SureStay Plus by Best Western. Both have a pool and water slide. Or recreate Night at the Museum and Camp In at Royal Tyrrell.
Vacation
We like heading to Maui because I’ll be there. In all seriousness, it’s easy, safe and you’re pretty much guaranteed good weather. You know you’re not going to get sick from drinking the water and everyone speaks English. Go hiking, rappel down a waterfall or hole up on the beach if fly and flop is more your style. Here’s a look at what to do with kids on Maui.
Couple’s Weekend
Staycation
Sneak away to Hotel Le Germain for some sophisticated sexy time. With Charcut and Sante spa under the same roof, you don’t even have to leave. If you want to venture out, stroll around the river paths, work out at the Eau Claire Y or shop The Core.
Vacation
You can’t go wrong heading someplace warm (where you wear minimal clothing). Cabo has daily direct flights from Calgary, so a Thursday to Sunday night stay is totally do-able. You can go high end (El Ganzo is the latest celeb spot), stay at an all-inclusive or rent a one-bedroom condo on VBRO sub $200/night.
Since the hurricane, there are deals to be had. Party at Squid Row, take a boat tour to see The Arches or just play in the sand while the whales breach before your eyes.
Girlfriend Getaway near Calgary
Staycation
Ladies, make a beeline for the Solara Resort and Spa in Canmore. You can spend the day at One Wellness Spa, where the services go beyond your basic facial or massage. With their Pathways treatments, you chose a focus like joy or sleep, (whatever you want more of in your life), and they incorporate breath and visualization techniques into your treatment.
Canmore boasts a vibrant restaurant scene and a charming main street laced with independent shops (Indigo Bay is my fave). For an easy, fun workout, hit up the Nordic Centre, where you can rent cross country skis or cruise down their toboggan hill.
Vacation
Greater Phoenix area. The shopping in and around Phoenix is superb, as are the spas. Fuchsia is a lovely day spa in Mesa that’s totally affordable yet pampering. Scenic desert hiking trails are abundant in Usery Mountain Regional Park and there’s occasional yoga classes at their information center.
Even if you’re not a health nut, it’s worth a visit to Southwest Herb, where you can try your hand at tincture making, or just get great recommendations to cure whatever ails you. Flower Pot and True Food are my first choices for restaurants, but check out my piece for the Calgary Herald on the 7 dining experiences you don’t want to miss.
Do you have plans for spring break? Where are you heading this year?
You’re always a little racy and that’s why I love reading your blog Jody!
Maui sounds great – and I bet they have a kid’s club.
I really enjoyed reading your post. I like how you have options for everyone.