I’ve written about how few legitimate excuses for not traveling exist, but in reality there are times when it’s just not a good time. I will concede that sometimes you don’t have the time to embark on international journey, however, that doesn’t mean you can’t get a taste of the world right at home.

Some call it a “staycation” or being a “hometown tourist” but I think of it more as an “attainable escape“. No matter how big or small your hometown is, you can make something like this work. I hear a lot of people complain about their hometown like it’s the most boring place in the world, yet they haven’t experienced 90% of what’s out there.

A fun exercise is to plan an international vacation and then try to experience it at home as best as possible. Say you’ve been wanting to experience Italy for it’s wine and food. There are an endless amount of Italian restaurants in the world, the challenge is to find an authentic one that you’ve never been to. Order something you’ve never tried and take it in as you would overseas. Next, find a local winery and sit down for a tasting! I know it won’t be Italian straight-from-the-vine experience, but it’s all about the attitude so use your imagination. No wineries in your area? Hit up the liquor store for an Italian wine and go for a picnic in the country! To cap it off, stay at a local bed and breakfast!

Think of all of the possibilities there are! If you live in a big city, it’s endless. Grab an airbnb in the ethnic area of your choice and you are good to go! If this sounds like too much work, you can always resort to Chinese takeout and Big Trouble in Little China.