THE STAYCATION BREAK New OrleaNs

Just as splendiferous as the merging of names is to come up with the term, “staycations” so is the concept itself. Staycations first rose to popularity around fifteen years ago, when the 2008 recession hit. Merriam-Webster cites the term being first used in 1944, as well as far back as the 1870s and the Victorians' impact, showing this is no new trend.

There are interesting parallels between all of these events, such as the effect of industrialism on citizens, World War II at the homefront, the 2008 global financial crisis, and now most recently the COVID-19 pandemic. While the height of the pandemic has eased up, one thing that staycations address is the lower overall cost. Travel has become more expensive due to the continuous uptick of inflation. Vacations offer a way to reduce stress and increase happiness, and when traveling far is not an option, there are still lots of ways to create fun and relaxation in your area.

Along with fun and relaxation, staycations offer the chance for one to practice several concepts that have become buzz terms in recent years. The terms mindfulness and “romanticizing your life” are not synonyms but a large part of both concepts is being present in everyday life, and enjoying and partaking in simple pleasures. Staycations offer the chance for one to practice these within your own community.

One of the city’s best resources for finding things to do within the city, is neworleans.com, which is produced and managed by New Orleans & Company. In speaking with the Assistant Vice President of Public Relations, Mary Beth Romig, she offered not only ideas, but valuable advice as well. When reflecting on the impact of the pandemic, which is still affecting the city today, Romig states that the spirit of staycations is important. They are a way to jump start our lives again after such turmoil and hardships over the past several years.

A go-to recommendation from New Orleans & Company and their affiliates is Vue Orleans. It is the city’s first and only 360 degree observatory, whose stunning indoor and outdoor views are just part of the attraction. The uninterrupted, breathtaking view is coupled with exhibitions that seek to tell the story of New Orleans. One such exhibit is that of the impact of the Mississippi River, an everyday essential part of life and the port component of the city. More information can be found at vueorleans.com

More of Romig’s recommendations include the Besthoff Sculpture Garden as part of the New Orleans Museum of Art, where admission is free. Continue your streak of viewing art by visiting the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. The Museum is located in the Warehouse District, and holds the largest and most comprehensive collection of Southern art. Their website, ogdenmuseum.org, can provide further information and lists current exhibitions. Another fantastic museum resource