EUROPEAN STAYCATION

Across social media this season, there has been an increase in posts about this year being the year of having a European summer. While it would be idealistic to hop on a plane and leave your worries behind to explore Italy, it is not realistic for everyone. Don’t get discouraged though, because there are various activities you can do to treat yourself and provide the essence of being in Europe from the comfort of your home.

Take your coffee outside
- If you are coffee addicted, try taking your beverage alfresco, whether on your balcony or backyard. If you feel like treating yourself to a barista-made cappuccino, head over to a local coffee shop you haven't been to before and sit outside to people-watch as if you are seated in a little cafe on the streets of France or Italy.

Parisian mornings at Café du Trocadéro ♥️ | wheres-my-juul.jpg

I'm Craving a Trip to Paris—15 Items I'd Pack Since Everyone There Wears Them.png

Visit a local museum
- When visiting a new country it is likely that you will visit a museum at some point on your trip. For a little bit of culture on your staycation visit a local art museum. To really enhance the experience wear a chic outfit and really make sure to take your time when you are there. Often times we feel rushed when site seeing but in this case, you have as long as you want to explore the various rooms in the museum.

Go to your local farmers' market
- If you like switching up your grocery shopping routine, visit a local farmers’ market for fresh produce. When in any Europe city there likely will be open-air markets selling fresh produce, meats, and cheeses. In this case, you definitely do not need to be in a different country to visit a farmers’ market or support small businesses— plus the taste of fresh produce in the summer is unmatched.

Try your hand at baking
- If you are dreaming of biting into a fresh-out-of-the-oven pain au chocolat, try your hand at pâtisserie-making. While it may take a long time from start to finish, it is sure to be rewarding and delicious. If you need inspiration on what to make think of classic pastries you would find in France, Italy, or Spain.

Pain Au Chocolat _ Chocolate Croissant _ Chocolatine Recipe.jpeg

Have a themed dinner party night
- What’s better than having your closest friends and family over for dinner with homemade food? With a little extra planning, you can throw a themed party based on any city accompanied by your favorite type of food such as pasta, pizza, or tapas. Try making almost the entire meal from scratch (such as fresh pasta noodles) with everyone and pair it with a bottle of wine and dessert from the country that has inspired your party. Put on an inspired playlist and open a bottle to start your dinner party that your friends and family will remember for years to come.

Unwind from the day with an Apéritif

Apéritif is more than just a charcuterie board, it is an art that some European countries have perfected. By definition, apéritif is a pre-dinner drink often accompanied by snacks meant to unwind from the day and stimulate the appetite. Some classic drinks include Champagne or other sparkling wines, gin, and tonic, Aperol Spritz, a martini, French 75, and a Negroni. With your drink set, grab some snacks such as mixed nuts, cheese, fresh bread, and meats. Kick back and relax.

Use your staycation to your advantage and create your own faux European trip. Treat yourself and indulge in life's little luxuries, because you deserve it.