Now that spring has sprung, your thoughts may be turning to summer vacation. Now is the time to start planning! But if your budget is not meeting up with your plans, it may be time to get creative.
Home Swapping may be the way to go. It’s not for everyone, so do your homework. Also, consider that you can swap cars as well!- Couchsurfing has gained in popularity over the past few years. In this instance you are sleeping somewhere on someone’s couch, but they are still home. Some hosts may also include meals as part of the offering.
- Will-work-for-vacation is a viable way to get away, get a change of scenery, but you will still need to do some work. This is great if you are fan of outdoor farming type work, as this tends to be the most popular option.
- If farming does not float your boat, then do just that, work on a cruise ship!
- Plan ahead by checking out the city you are visiting and find out if any of the area attractions offer free admission days. Many popular cities offer free or reduced entry costs on certain days and times. Or just come visit St. Louis! Our Zoo, Art Museum, Science Center, History Museum, Brewery Tours, Grant’s Farm and more are free!
- Crowd-Funding, believe it or not, is an option, people have successfully funded their vacations. This works especially well if your trip has a purpose! For example, let’s say you are a photographer and want to go somewhere spectacular to take pictures or you are going to study the history of an area to share with your students. Write a compelling reason for your travels and see if friends, families and more will help you out.
- Teach English abroad. You will need to have a bachelor’s degree and accomplish a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) course. You may not only get your room, board and air paid for, but you may also pick up some extra cash.
- Consider a Staycation. Go see the sites in your own city, do some shopping, and maybe even stay in hotel or resort for a night or two.
No matter what you do, please do take some time off this summer. People in the meetings industry are super efficient and have the amazing ability to do the work of 2 – 3 “normal” people, so you really do need some downtime. Be safe no matter where your travels take you!
