The economy is in a rut, everyone is strapped for cash and the possibility of taking a vacation seems laughable. As much as we would all love to jet off to the coast of Thailand for a week of surf and sun or pamper ourselves on a spa getaway with our friends... this doesn't seem to be happening for the majority of us anytime soon. But with a little creativity, I'd like to share how you can create a totally lavish yet very affordable vacation. All you will need is an open heart, a willing mind and the need for a little R&R.
The following are 12 steps to an exotic vacation that’s cheap, simple and can take place in your own backyard.
1. Go to your local gourmet market and pick out a few ounces of Mahon, a sheep's milk cheese from the island of Menorca. It's great with briny Spanish olives (5 for one person, 10 for two) and a few slices of jamon Serrano. Maybe these treats are a bit more expensive than what you’re used to spending but don't forget, you're on "vacation" and in this case, Spain is the destination, at least as far as your taste buds are concerned.
2. If you'd rather head a bit farther east to France, go with a few ounces Camembert cheese paired with toasted nuts, sweet pears and a freshly baked baguette.
3. Pick out one exotic chocolate bar. My favorite gourmet chocolate company is Vosges Haut-Chocolat. If you choose the Barcelona Bar you will absolutely not be disappointed.
4. Next is the wine. If the selections from Spain intrigued you try an elegantly structured Rioja which is a 100% Tempranillo grape and tastes silky and sensual with a big punch. But if you prefer France, I suggest the Chateauneuf de Pape which is a blend of Grenache and Syrah. This wine is layered, interesting and evolves with every sip.
5. I always love a small bottle of lavender oil. You can purchase at a local yoga studio or health food store. But if you really want something special, look to Wisdom of the Earth. The owners go to France every year and pick lavendar from the Alps. Ask for "lavendar fine."
6. Carve out for yourself a full Saturday or Sunday afternoon.
7. Leave the cell phone behind. I know it's tough but to really make this a sensory vacation, be aware that too much external stimulation tends to suck the senses dry. This afternoon is all about restoring some juice.
8. Pack a picnic including a Magic Carpet which will serve as both a picnic blanket and yoga mat. (More in step 11 on the Magic Carpet)
9. Pick a lovely spot in your area. If it's warm, your favorite vista or park. If it's the dead of winter, an afternoon at a place with some sense of the majestic...like a museum.
10. Upon finding just the spot to enjoy your treats, first apply a few drops of the lavender on your forearms. Scent is the most powerful of all your senses. A beautiful scent has an ability to trigger positive feelings and thoughts in the mind.
11. Lay out the Magic Carpet and before you do anything else, lie down and relax in what the yogis call Savasana. You are about to treat yourself to one of the greatest moments you'll have all year.
12. Lastly, enjoy each and every bite of your treats. Notice that by treating your senses to unique flavors, colors, scents and surroundings, that you break away from the madness of daily life and in a very enjoyable and affordable way, you free the spirit.
