by Victoria Hill

Created on: August 02, 2008

As gas prices soar and the economy plumets the thought of filling up the gas tank can seem out of reach, let alone the idea of taking a vacation. For this reason many Americans are opting for a staycation.

According to the Urban Dictionary, a staycation is basically a vacation taken from the comfort of your home. You get the fun and relaxation of a vacation without spending a lot of dough on airline tickets and hotel stays.

While you may be a bit spectacle about the idea of taking a staycation, I assure you with a bit of planning and some creativity your staycation can be the Summer fun you're after.

Here are a few tips and ideas to get your staycation going:

1. Set the date

While you may not be leaving your home, you will be leaving behind your daily routine. The most important aspect of a vacation, whether taken from home or away, is to relax. So alert family, friends and co-workers of your staycation. Try avoiding e-mails and phone calls that may induce anything other than the relaxation you're after. If you're really brave, turn the ringer off your phones and keep the computer off as well. And while you're at it, unplug the alarm clock too.

2. Create your space

Turn your home into the five-star resort you've dreamed of. Make beds with clean, crisp sheets, set out fresh flowers and hide those taunting projects (like the laundry basket) in a closet - staycations are about relinquishing your daily tasks!

3. Get cooking

One of my favorite parts of vacationing is trying new dishes and restaurants. Decide to have meals outdoors for that tropical vibe while staycationing. If you enjoy cooking, try a new exotic recipe, or cruise a farmers' market to make a meal with local flare. If cooking isn't your thing, treat yourself to a meal at your favorite restaurant. Even something as simple as choosing a gourmet coffee to replace your standard morning Folger's can make your staycation special.

4. Catch up on fun

Vacations are about having fun! We all have hobbies and interests we replace with things we deem more important, but those interest are important too. Your staycation is the perfect time to catch up on those things that are pleasing to you. Work in the garden, sign up for a short painting or dance class at a local art school, even renting and watching a complete season of your favorite TV show can be very rewarding.

5. Hit the road

You may be surprised by the abundance of activities and sites in your home town. Thumb through the phone book or search the Internet for your

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